NewzIntel.com

Category: Weather

  • MIL-OSI USA: Feenstra Named Federal Champion by American Flood Coalition for Work to Protect Iowa Communities from Flooding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Randy Feenstra (IA-04)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Hull) was named a Federal Champion by the American Flood Coalition (AFC) for his leadership, public service, and commitment to finding solutions to challenges posed by flooding.

    “Last summer, our communities in Western Iowa were hit by catastrophic floods that devastated homes, businesses, hospitals, farms, schools, and other structures. Iowans are resilient, but the rebuilding process is time-consuming and expensive. It’s why I’m working to implement proactive and cost-effective strategies that help protect our communities, homes, farmland, and infrastructure from flooding,” said Rep. Feenstra. “I’m honored to be named a Federal Champion by the American Flood Coalition for my work to give our families and communities the tools and resources that they need to not only recover from disasters but also invest in safeguards that protect our land and property. Born and raised in rural Iowa, I will continue to support policies that help our communities prepare for and respond to flooding and other destructive storms.”

    “AFC is thrilled to welcome Congressman Feenstra as an Iowa Federal Champion. His addition solidifies the state as the first with all members of its federal delegation earning this recognition,” saidMelissa Roberts, Executive Director, American Flood Coalition. “Congressman Feenstra’s firsthand experience supporting Iowans devastated by historic flooding in the summer of 2024 will be invaluable as we work together to better protect farm country and rural communities from future storms.”

    As a member of the House Agriculture Committee and House Ways and Means Committee, Feenstra has championed efforts to strengthen flood prevention for farmers and to ease barriers for navigating complex federal disaster recovery programs. This includes his introduction of bipartisan policy proposals that would give farmers flexibility, resources, and data to effectively manage their flood risk, and to give Iowa families and communities financial flexibility as they recover from floods and tornadoes.

    Feenstra joins 51 bipartisan AFC Federal Champions, including the entire Iowa delegation, recognized as members of Congress dedicated to advancing solutions to stronger storms and more frequent flooding. 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Representatives Goldman, Matsui, and Amodei Urge FCC to Preserve Funding for Public Broadcasting

    Source: US Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10)

    Trump and Musk Threatening to Slash Funding for Public Broadcasting Services, Opened FCC Investigation into NPR and PBS   

      

    Public Programming is Critical for Low-Income and Rural Communities  

      

    Read the Letter Here 

    Washington, DC – Congressman Dan Goldman (NY-10) and Mark Amodei (NV-02), Co-Chairs of the bipartisan Public Broadcasting Caucus, alongside Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, Doris Matsui (CA-07), led 16 of their colleagues in sending a letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr expressing their support for public broadcasting amidst the Trump Administration’s calls to defund National Public Radio (NPR) and Public Broadcasting Service (PBS).  

    On January 29th, Chairman Carr sent a letter to the heads of both NPR and PBS informing them that he was launching a probe into both of their underwriting practices. In that letter he stated that “I do not see a reason why Congress should continue sending taxpayer dollars to NPR and PBS given the changes in the media marketplace.” However, the letter presented no evidence of wrongdoing or deviation from their longstanding sponsorship disclosure practices. Since then, follow-up letters have been sent to 13 public radio stations. 

    “We respectfully disagree that Congress should stop funding NPR and PBS. Without federal support for public broadcasting, many localities would struggle to receive timely, reliable local news and educational content, particularly remote or rural communities that commercial newsrooms are less likely to invest in. […] Additionally, public media plays an essential role in providing lifesaving information, including emergency alerts, in times of crisis,” the Members wrote.  

    During catastrophic events like Hurricanes Helene and Milton, as well as various California wildfires, public media was a critical resource to get out essential public safety coverage. Public media has also been crucial for children and families, averaging 16 million monthly users and more than 350 million monthly streams across digital platforms on their educational content. 

    The members also highlighted how such funding preserves local communities’ access to vital public safety alerts, trusted news, and educational information. In states such as Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Texas, rural public radio stations are often the only consistent news source in the area. 

    We must ensure that Americans continue to have access to important public broadcasting programs and services. This includes preserving public broadcast stations’ federal funding and their longstanding, legitimate underwriting practices,” the Members concluded.  

    Read the Letter Here or Below  

    Dear Chairman Carr,  

    We write to express our support for public broadcasting and its vital role in delivering quality educational and informational programs to local communities across the country. As members of the bipartisan Public Broadcasting Caucus (“Caucus”), we see firsthand the valuable services that public broadcasting provides for our districts and across the nation. These range from public safety information to local news, children’s educational content, and in-depth workforce training courses.   

    In January, you wrote to the presidents and chief executives of National Public Radio (“NPR”) and Public Broadcasting Service (“PBS”), signaling that you have asked the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau to open an investigation regarding underwriting practices at PBS, NPR, and their broadcast member stations. You also wrote that you personally “do not see a reason why Congress should continue sending taxpayer dollars to NPR and PBS given the changes in the media marketplace.”  

    We respectfully disagree that Congress should stop funding NPR and PBS. Since its founding almost 25 years ago, our Caucus reflects the longstanding bipartisan nature of public support for federal funding of public broadcasting. Today, this mission remains as critical as ever. More than half of U.S. counties have little to no locally based source of local news, and over 200 counties are news deserts.  

    The vast majority of federal funding for public radio and television goes directly to individual stations, with Community Service Grants accounting for at least 25 percent of revenue for 120 rural stations (almost half of all rural grantees) and at least 50 percent for 33 rural stations. Stations are able to build on this federal investment to raise non-federal funds to help sustain their local broadcasting services, representing a return of over $3.70 for every appropriated dollar for rural stations and about $7 when also accounting for nonrural stations.   

    Without federal support for public broadcasting, many localities would struggle to receive timely, reliable local news and educational content, particularly remote or rural communities that commercial newsrooms are less likely to invest in. In states such as Alaska, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Texas, rural public radio stations are often the only weekly or daily news source in their communities. Even in places with other daily or weekly news sources, those outlets may not be directing resources toward original or locally based stories, leaving it to public stations to fill the gap.   

    Additionally, public media plays an essential role in providing lifesaving information, including emergency alerts, in times of crisis. During Hurricanes Helene and Milton, even as many other news sources lost power and internet, Blue Ridge Public Radio remained online in the Asheville, North Carolina area and delivered hourly local updates and statements from public officials to the over 500,000 people impacted by power outages in the region. In Florida, a network of 14 public media stations across the state began coverage of Hurricane Helene a week before its major landfall, granting residents direct access to real-time weather alerts and updates across all platforms and apps. Similarly, during the 2017 Northern California Wildfires, local public radio outlets combined office space to streamline information released by public officials and maximize their ability to get essential public safety coverage across the region.  

    Public broadcasting networks also support educational content that parents nationwide rely on to help their children learn, averaging 16 million monthly users and more than 350 million monthly streams across digital platforms. This is particularly true for low-income families, as PBS stations reach more children from those households than any of the children’s cable television networks in one year. In 2025, PBS Kids was named the most educational media brand, with 63 percent of respondents voting for PBS Kids compared to other television or online platforms. Local stations like PBS Reno offer a “Curiosity Classroom” service that provides free STEM, literacy-based workshops, specifically designed for Pre-K through fourth grade classrooms, to communities in northern Nevada and northeastern California. It is little wonder that 90 percent of the parents surveyed said PBS Kids helps prepare children for success in school, and 82 percent of voters, including 72 percent of President Trump’s voters, value PBS for its children’s programming and educational tools.  

    We must ensure that Americans continue to have access to important public broadcasting programs and services. This includes preserving public broadcast stations’ federal funding and their longstanding, legitimate underwriting practices. In 1981, Congress specifically amended our public broadcasting rules to relax prior restrictions upon public broadcasters’ fundraising activities, to ensure that public media could better leverage nongovernment funding as an exchange for reducing federal funding. It is critical that the FCC does not chill legitimate underwriting practices that are compliant with its underwriting rules. Our public media must able to remain financially viable to provide critical news and educational information to their communities.   

    We appreciate your attention to this important issue and request a briefing by April 4, 2025 on how the FCC plans to ensure that any investigation does not undercut public media’s role in providing important services to their local communities.  

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Nadler, Garamendi, and Castor Reintroduce Legislation to Codify the EPA Office of Children’s Health Protection

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S House Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), John Garamendi (D-CA), and Kathy Castor (D-FL) reintroduced the Children’s Health Protection Act of 2025, legislation to codify into law the only office within the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) dedicated to children’s health, the Office of Children’s Health Protection (OCHP). This office would be responsible for rulemaking, policy, enforcement actions, research and applications of science that focuses on prenatal and childhood vulnerabilities, safe chemicals management; and coordination of community-based programs to eliminate threats to children’s health where they live, learn and play. 

    Similarly, the legislation would also make the EPA Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee a permanent advisory committee. This advisory committee will advise the EPA Administrator in regards to the activities of the Office of Children’s Health Protection, all relevant information regarding regulations, research, and communications related to children’s health, and continue to serve the EPA in protecting children from environmental harm. 
    The Children’s Health Protection Act of 2025 aims to ensure that no President will be able to remove these safeguards that help shield children from environmental harms to their health. 

    “Today, I am proud to reintroduce the Children’s Health Protection Act which confronts the urgent need to address the unique health risks children face from environmental factors,” said Congressman Jerry Nadler (D-NY). “By codifying the 1997 Executive Order that created the EPA Office of Children’s Health Protection—the only office within the EPA dedicated to protecting children’s health—this bill makes certain that the Office will remain a critical resource for our children, especially as the EPA’s critical functions are threatened.”

     “While the Trump Administration is stripping EPA regulations that protect children’s health, I’m thrilled that Congressman Nadler and Castor are leading the way to improve indoor air quality in our nation’s schools,” said Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA). “Our bill will ensure that the EPA prioritizes children’s health, allowing them to grow up and live happy, healthy lives. In 2018, the Trump Administration attempted to eliminate the EPA’s Office of Children’s Health Protection, which ensures that federal regulations for chemicals and other toxic substances account for children’s unique health needs. In 2025, Congressman Nadler, Castor and I are fighting to prevent the Trump Administration and any future administration from making such a reckless decision.” 

    “The physical and mental health of children in America is paramount.  Children face greater health risks from dirty air and water pollution, and are at greater risk of developing chronic health conditions like asthma and diabetes.  Young people also are vulnerable to stress and trauma from extreme events and climate-related disasters. This bill will ensure that the EPA’s critical work to protect children’s environmental health continues with strong congressional support,” said Congresswoman Kathy Castor. 

    In addition to Representatives Nadler, Garamendi, and Castor, the bill is also cosponsored by Representatives Carson, Chu, Cohen, Dexter, Evans, Hayes, Holmes Norton, Johnson (GA), Lee (PA), Magaziner, Ocasio Cortez, Sorenson, Thanedar, Tlaib, and Tokuda. 

    BACKGROUND:
     
    Since its creation in 1997 through Executive Order, the EPA’s OCHP has been crucial in protecting children, who are uniquely vulnerable, from environmental hazards. It has done so through policy, research focusing on their unique prenatal and childhood health vulnerabilities, safe chemicals management, and coordination of community-based programs to eliminate threats to children’s health.
     
    The OCHP also studies how natural disasters affect children’s health, not only through exposure to hazards like mold and water-borne pathogens but also by analyzing the mental toll of displacement and loss. 
     
    The Children’s Health Protection Act will ensure this vital work continues by strengthening and securing the OCHP and the EPA Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee.
     
    The Children’s Health Protection Act of 2025 is endorsed by a wide range of health advocacy groups and environmental justice organizations, including: Allergy & Asthma Network, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Lung Association, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, California Brain Tumor Association, Children’s Environmental Health Network,  Climate Mental Health Network, Climate Psychiatry Alliance, Endocrine Society, Green & Healthy Homes Initiative, Health Care Without Harm, Healthy Schools Network, International Society for Environmental Epidemiology: North America Chapter, Medical Students for a Sustainable Future, Moms Clean Air Force, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Center for Healthy Housing, National Environmental Health Association, Northeast Ohio Black Health Coalition, OneGreenThing, Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility,  Pediatric Endocrine Society, Physicians for Social Responsibility, Physicians for Social Responsibility Maine, Physicians for Social Responsibility of Pennsylvania, Physicians for Social Responsibility – Texas, Prevention Institute, Rachel Carson Council, Rachel’s Network, San Francisco Bay Physicians for Social Responsibility, Sears-Swetland Family Foundation, Society for Public Health Education, Toxics Information Project (TIP), and 350 Bay Area Action.

    WHAT THEY ARE SAYING:

    “Nearly 5 million children in the United States have asthma, and asthma causes more missed school days than any other chronic disease,” said Kenneth Mendez, President and CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA). “Environmental factors such as poor indoor air quality and outdoor air pollution play a role in making asthma symptoms worse. That’s why we need the EPA’s Office of Children’s Health Protection – to focus attention on steps to reduce asthma triggers. We thank Representatives Nadler, Garamendi, Castor for introducing this legislation to make this office permanent and ensure the health concerns of children are at the forefront of the EPA’s work.”

    “Children are the brightest part of our future,” said Deb Brown, Chief Mission Officer of the American Lung Association. “That’s why it’s critical to do everything we can to protect them. With lungs and other organs that are still developing, children are more vulnerable to the health harms from air pollution. Ensuring there will continue to be an office and a team dedicated to protecting the health of children from environmental hazards is a small step that will reap large benefits for our future.”

    “There are big gaps in our understanding of the long-term health outcomes resulting from exposure to the great number of toxins we’ve dumped into the environment over the last 50+ years,” said Sydney R. Sewall, MD, MPH, Pediatrician and President of Physicians for Social Responsibility (Maine Chapter). “We do know that children are at greatest risk, and more EPA policies need to be directed at reducing this risk.”

    “Given the devastating environmental rollbacks we are witnessing each day, the time is now to formally protect the Office of Children’s Health Protection within EPA. We must continue to protect children from environmental harms like toxic air pollution, lead, tainted drinking water, and climate change. Rep. Nadler and Garmendi’s bill has never been more urgent,” said Heather White, OneGreenThing Founder & CEO

    “Physicians for Social Responsibility (PSR) commends Representative Nadler for safeguarding the health of children by introducing legislation to make the EPA Office of Children’s Health Protection and the EPA Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee permanent fixtures,” said Paige Knappenberger, Director of Physicians for Social Responsibility’s Environment and Health Program. “As physicians, PSR members know that children have unique vulnerabilities to environmental harms like climate change and air pollution and deserve special protections from these harms so they can have safe places to grow, play and learn.”

    “The Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments enthusiastically endorses Rep. Nadler’s bill introduced this week, the “Children’s Health Protection Act of 2024”, said Katie Huffling, DNP, RN, CNM, FAAN, Executive Director of the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments. “This bill aims to make the EPA Office of Children’s Health Protection (OCHP) and the EPA Children’s Health Protection Advisory Committee permanent. Established in 1997, OCHP is the only office within EPA dedicated to the health of children and as such, it safeguards our children from potential environmental harms to their health. We strongly urge members of Congress to support this bill to avoid any possibility of future administrations dismantling of this crucial office.”

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Amo Elevates Rhode Island’s Blue Economy in First Hearing as Ranking Member

    Source: US Congressman Gabe Amo (Rhode Island 1st District)

    Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee on Environment held its first hearing of 119th Congress on the Blue Economy

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Environment Gabe Amo (RI-01) delivered remarks in the first Subcommittee on Environment hearing of the year. In the hearing titled To the Depths, and Beyond: Examining Blue Economy Technologies, Congressman Amo highlighted Rhode Island’s success in growing the Blue Economy while calling out President Trump’s systematic disinvestment in science and economic development.

    “Thanks to investments in the Blue Economy, my home state — the Ocean State — is home to thriving blue industries such as commercial fishing, tourism, defense production and shipbuilding, as well as marine manufacturing, offshore wind, and oceanic research. Estimates show that the Blue Economy employs more than 36,000 workers in Rhode Island and contributes over $5 billion to our gross domestic product every year,” said Ranking Member Amo. “I hope my colleagues on the other side of the aisle will join me in pushing against the Trump administration’s attacks on science and the Blue Economy.”

    WATCH CONGRESSMAN AMO’S OPENING REMARKS HERE

    BACKGROUND

    Congressman Gabe Amo serves as the Ranking Member for the Subcommittee on Environment on the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. This subcommittee has jurisdiction over research at the Environmental Protection Agency, environmental standards, and climate change research and development, as well as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which administers the National Weather Service. Congressman Amo has advocated for Rhode Island’s Blue Economy through a district-wide tour of stakeholders — from marine manufacturing companies to offshore wind training programs to leading experts in ocean research and academia.

     

    REMARKS AS DELIVERED

    Thank you, Chair Franklin, for today’s hearing on the Blue Economy. And thank you to our witnesses for agreeing to share your perspectives.

    Since the days of Roger Williams and the Gaspee Affair, the ocean has been central to Rhode Island’s identity. But water isn’t just a key to our past — it’s critical to our future.

    Thanks to investments in the Blue Economy, my home state — the Ocean State — is home to thriving blue industries such as commercial fishing, tourism, defense production and shipbuilding, as well as marine manufacturing, offshore wind, and oceanic research. Leveraging our state’s natural strengths has ushered in a new age of prosperity for workers, small businesses, and research institutions.

    Estimates show that the Blue Economy employs more than 36,000 workers in Rhode Island and contributes over $5 billion to our gross domestic product every year. Across the country, there are approximately 2 million workers supporting the Blue Economy who contribute about $373 billion to our nation’s GDP.

    To find out more, I embarked on a multi-day, multi-stop tour of Rhode Island’s First Congressional District’s Blue Economy in October. I learned about leaders training union workers pursuing careers in offshore wind. I engaged with researchers and higher education leaders working to deepen our understanding of the ocean. I saw how cutting-edge manufacturing companies are growing their footprints and investing in our communities.

    Tools like artificial intelligence and robotics are revolutionizing ocean-based industries and driving growth in the Blue Economy. Rhode Island has companies utilizing cutting-edge aquatic data collected through underwater drones that is increasing our national defense capabilities.

    We must continue to invest in the Blue Economy. It supports innovation, our workforce, and our resiliency efforts. It’s about protecting our global innovation leadership. We need public, private, and nonprofit stakeholders rowing in the same direction.

    I hope there are shared values in our committee about leveraging our ocean to advance scientific research, spur economic development, and defend our national security. But I am, at this moment, not certain those priorities are shared by the leadership at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue at the White House. Time and time again, we have seen President Trump and his billionaire supporters, stand in the way. They have systematically undermined and jeopardized our progress in an area where we should continue to have great leadership. Take, for example, the whiplash firing and rehiring of staff, the cancelling of contracts, and the freezing of grants across our government — including at NOAA and the National Science Foundation and countless other key areas.

    Can anyone really claim that chaos and confusion supports economic development? I think the answer is clear.

    Hacking and slashing away at our federal agencies slows scientific progress that is urgently needed, threatens economic stability, undermines disaster preparedness, and can hinder national security. My state has welcomed NOAA with open arms. It will turbocharge ocean research innovation and initiatives that will grow our Blue Economy.

    Innovation has always — always — been a collaborative effort between government, academia, non-profits and private industry. Collaboration between government and academia has driven foundational “moonshot” innovations. Private-public partnerships have turned breakthroughs into real-world applications and scaled them rapidly. However, Trump and DOGE and the actions of the last several weeks have worked overtime to turn back the clock. Crippling federal support for research at universities and the private sector are dimming the prospects for future scientific discovery. It is cutting off pathways and opportunities that lead to careers in science and innovation.

    The actions of President Trump have driven universities to lay off staff, issue new guidance for graduate students, and push away the very expertise that we urgently need now to continue our advances in the Blue Economy. Researchers are left scrambling. Organizations are being forced into crisis mode and students are dissuaded from pursuing careers in STEM.

    These funding cuts are threatening America’s already tenuous global leadership in ocean research and innovation. Elon Musk is opening the door to competitors around the world, and adversaries like China, who are already catching up to our investments in research and development.

    So I end with this. What does it mean when the United States, a nation struggling to stay at the forefront of science, is unilaterally disarming and letting our strongest scientific tools wither on the vine?

    Look, I hope we can find a bipartisan consensus to push back against these decisions. Because if not, there will come a point where recovery may no longer be possible.

    With that, I yield.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Boao forum sends reassuring message to unstable, uncertain world

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    This photo shows the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    As crises flare across global hotspots — from geopolitical conflicts to rising protectionism — a strikingly different scene unfolded in the coastal town of Boao in southern Chinese province of Hainan.

    Amid the tranquility of the small town, the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) annual conference opened with a timely theme: “Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future,” offering a rare space for cooperation and dialogue in an increasingly fractured world.

    “Our world is experiencing far greater instability and uncertainty,” Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said at the conference’s opening ceremony on Thursday morning.

    Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, called for strengthening mutual trust, enhancing win-win cooperation, promoting economic globalization and safeguarding the free trade system.

    Since Tuesday, when the BFA annual conference began its panels and sub-forums, the world has witnessed a series of escalating crises.

    U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to impose 25 percent tariffs on all vehicles and auto parts imported into the United States, a move seen as expanding trade protectionism. In the Middle East, Yemen’s Houthi group launched fresh attacks on a U.S. aircraft carrier in the Red Sea and “military targets” in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, in East Asia, deadly wildfires engulfed parts of the Republic of Korea (ROK), claiming lives and causing damage.

    Against this backdrop, Boao became more than just a venue for speeches; it became a space for confronting common challenges. Participants delved into issues that transcend borders, from building an open global economy and accelerating modernization in the Global South to addressing the climate crisis, demographic shifts, and the implications of artificial intelligence (AI).

    Asian economic integration

    Addressing the opening ceremony, Ding said that significant progress has been made in building an Asian community with a shared future over the past decade.

    He added that regional economic integration has been strengthened, and Asia’s share in the global economy is steadily rising.

    Highlighting the profound global transformations and the rise of unilateralism and protectionism, BFA Chairman and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon described the “Asian miracle” as, to a large extent, a product of globalization, free trade, and open regionalism.

    Ban Ki-moon, chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) and former UN secretary-general, speaks at the opening ceremony of the BFA Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Asian economic integration, many speakers noted, is gaining momentum, with regional frameworks like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) serving as a cornerstone for deepening economic ties.

    The RCEP has emerged as an important anchor for global free trade, said Kuang Xianming, deputy head of the China Institute for Reform and Development, adding that the world’s largest free trade agreement keeps opening up regional markets and advancing regional liberalization.

    The RCEP includes 10 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its five free trade agreement partners, namely China, Japan, the ROK, Australia, and New Zealand.

    Signs of growing cooperation were also seen in a recent high-level economic dialogue between China and Japan, which reached 20 consensus points on collaboration in areas such as green development, environmental protection, and elderly care services, among others.

    Meanwhile, a BFA report identified China and ASEAN as the most appealing economies in Asia. It noted that the inward and outward foreign direct investment dependence of Asian economies on the region itself reached 49.15 percent in 2023, underscoring the region’s growing economic interdependence.

    Answers for an uncertain world

    For many participants, the BFA annual conference was more than just an event for Asia. It served as a reminder that, amid global turbulence, platforms for dialogue and trust-building still exist and still matter.

    The Global South, whose economies contribute 80 percent to world economic growth, took center stage at the meeting.

    South-South cooperation today is greener, smarter, and more inclusive, said Xiaojun Grace Wang, Trust Fund Director of UN Office for South-South Cooperation, calling on the Global South nations to seize this era’s opportunities by enhancing collaboration on digital and data-driven solutions for sustainable development.

    Climate change and the governance of emerging technologies also dominated conversations.

    Helena Mcleod, deputy director general and head of the Green Growth Planning & Implementation Division at the Global Green Growth Institute, speaks at a panel discussion themed on “Addressing Climate Change: Issues and Solutions” during the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Helena McLeod, deputy director general and head of the Green Growth Planning & Implementation Division at the Global Green Growth Institute, underscored the vital role of legislation in accelerating the global green transition. “The legislative approaches have to be addressed, and that includes the carbon pricing and pollution control policies.”

    On AI, experts have warned of the risks of unregulated development. “If countries fail to anticipate and manage the risks of AI, they may find themselves inadequately prepared when challenges arise,” said Zeng Yi, a researcher with the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

    China’s reform and opening up continue to draw global attention. Since launching the drive in 1978, the country has transformed from an impoverished nation into a market-oriented economic powerhouse, driving high-quality development and creating opportunities shared with the rest of the world.

    Its GDP grew by 5 percent year on year in 2024, ranking among the world’s fastest-growing major economies while continuing to contribute about 30 percent to global economic growth.

    A panel discussion themed on “AI: How to Strike a Balance between Application and Governance” is held during the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025 in Boao, south China’s Hainan Province, March 26, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    China’s resolve to deepen reform and opening up, Ban noted, has bolstered confidence in inclusive globalization and an open world economy, injected fresh impetus into a strong and balanced global recovery, and created new opportunities for international cooperation.

    “Opening up is a distinct hallmark of Chinese modernization,” Ding said, adding that the country will steadily expand institutional opening up, further improve market access for foreign investors, and expand trials to open sectors such as telecommunications, medical services, and education.

    “We warmly welcome businesses from all countries to invest and operate in China, participate in the process of Chinese modernization, and share in China’s development opportunities,” he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delay to start of night sealing work with road closures in Ashburton, SH1

    Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

    A major road asphalting project in Ashburton, affecting night-time travel, due to start this Sunday, 30 March, will now begin Friday, 4 April. The work is due to run for five or so weeks.

    Weather has affected the programme and required the later start date, says NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA).

    SH1 from SH77 Moore St intersection to South St will be closed from Friday night, 4 April, work happening Sunday to Friday nights. The aim is to use the Friday nights to catch up with the scheduled programme, says NZTA’s Maintenance Contract Manager in Mid Canterbury Chris Chambers.

    SH1 traffic will be managed using local road detours for the first two stages, then Stop/Go for the last week, 8pm to 6am.

    People need to build in an extra 30 minutes after 8 pm at night and also expect short delays during the day, says Mr Chambers.

    At this stage there are no changes to the start dates for the other sections of work.

    (See original traffic bulletin below).

    SH1 will be reopened each day at 6am, under temporary speed limits with reduced lane widths.

    * Earlier release on this work:

    https://nzta.govt.nz/media-releases/sh1-night-closures-for-asphalt-resurfacing-in-ashburton-from-end-of-march/

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Markey, Gallego Introduce Legislation to Combat Urban Heat Islands

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey

    Bill comes after record-breaking spring temperatures in Phoenix and across the West this week

    Washington (March 28, 2025) – Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) today introduced the Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act which would create a competitive grant program to provide funding to combat the causes and consequences of urban heat islands. Heat islands occur when urban areas experience higher temperatures due to factors such as increased population density; a lack of shading; and pavement infrastructure such as parking lots, sidewalks, and roadways. 34 million Americans currently live in areas where manmade factors are pushing up temperatures by 8 degrees Fahrenheit or more.   

    “Extreme heat has become a near universal experience for families across the country, and its effects are particularly dangerous for marginalized communities who often lack proper cooling infrastructure,” said Senator Markey. “The Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act would address years of underinvestment in these communities by directing federal resources toward life-saving solutions – such as increased tree canopy, shaded bus stops, and community cooling centers. As record-breaking heat strikes year after year, neighborhoods in every corner of America deserve to stay healthy and cool while commuting, working, and playing outside.” 

    “As summers in Arizona and across the country get longer and hotter, they also get deadlier – especially in cities where a lack of shade and miles of concrete push temperatures even higher,” said Senator Gallego. “I’ve long been a champion of doing more to address extreme heat, and I am proud to continue that effort by introducing this bill in the Senate.”

    The Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act would create a $30 million grant program through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for entities such as local governments, metropolitan planning organizations, Tribal governments, and nonprofits to implement efforts that prevent and offset the effects of excess urban heat including: cool pavements, cool roofs, tree planting and maintenance, green roofs, bus stop covers, cooling centers, and local heat mitigation education efforts.

    “This week, Phoenix broke our own record when Sky Harbor hit 99 degrees on March 25. The climate crisis is the most pressing issue for our generation,” said Congresswoman Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03), the House sponsor of the bill. “I came to Congress to take bold action and secure federal investments because lives are at stake. I’m proud to stand with Senator Ruben Gallego in introducing the Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act—Arizonans can’t afford to wait.”

    “With extreme heat driven by the climate crisis a growing threat to the well-being of Oregonians and everybody in our country, it’s a must for federal investment to help local communities respond to this life-and-death risk,” Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) said. “This bill would provide those resources for locally driven responses that could provide relief for farmworkers, construction workers and everybody working outdoors as well as for people living indoors and lacking affordable cooling options.”

    “In places like East Portland, where a lack of tree canopy already leaves neighborhoods dangerously exposed to extreme heat, the Trump Administration’s illegal funding freeze and grant contract cancellations will only deepen this heat crisis,” said Senator Jeff Merkley (D-Ore). “The Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act provides much-needed resources for tree planting, cooling centers, and other solutions to fight climate chaos and keep our communities safe.” 

    “New Jersey is one of the fastest-warming states in the nation, and in Newark where I live, residents experience temperatures that are 8 degrees higher because of the urban heat island effect,” said Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.). “I am proud to cosponsor this legislation that will empower our communities to combat the rise in urban heat due to climate change, both by tackling the underlying causes and by enabling communities to adapt.”

    “Extreme heat waves are becoming more frequent and intense in the face of the climate crisis, threatening the health and safety of communities in California and across the country,” said Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.). “These health impacts are even more severe in lower-income, urban areas, where residents struggle to find shaded spaces in higher temperatures. Our legislation would help groups on the ground lead urban heat reduction efforts in their communities, while addressing both the long-term causes and consequences of excess urban heat.” 

    “Extreme heat is a growing public health emergency that kills more Americans every year than any other weather-related causes—and breaks down American infrastructure. Senator Ruben Gallego’s Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act offers a smart, scalable response by supporting proven landscape-based strategies like tree planting, bus and transit shelters, green roofs, and park development. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) strongly supports this legislation, which affirms the vital role of landscape architects in building healthier, cooler, and fairer communities through design that works with nature,” said ASLA CEO Torey Carter-Conneen.

    “Extreme heat is the deadliest natural disaster, killing more people than hurricanes and tornadoes combined. Trees decrease this threat, reducing street temperatures by up to 20°F compared to neighborhoods without trees,” said Joel Pannell, American Forests Vice President of Urban Forests Policy. “Trees are life-saving infrastructure. This urgently needed legislation will give HUD a prominent role in protecting communities from the increasing threats of extreme heat while empowering local decision-making and creating jobs.”

    The Excess Urban Heat Mitigation Act is also supported by Climate Mayors, Smart Surfaces Coalition, Federation of American Scientists, Green Roofs for Healthy Cities, Union of Concerned Scientists, GreenLatinos, Center for Biological Diversity, National Coalition for the Homeless, American Lung Association, WE ACT for Environmental Justice, Climate Resolve, and TreePeople.

    The bill text is available HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: City to hold free nature events during April School Holidays

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is holding a series of free events to highlight the region’s natural environment and biodiversity during the April School Holidays.

    City of Greater Bendigo Climate Change and Environment Manager Michelle Wyatt said the free events will both educate and entertain participants.

    “Our region has a diversity of wildlife and the free sessions will help residents to learn about their unique characteristics and understand the importance of caring for the habitats they live in,” Ms Wyatt said.

    “In addition to the events there will also be a pop-up activation in Hargreaves Mall for children and families to learn about Bendigo’s unique native plants and animals as well as ways to make your home more energy efficient from 11am to 2pm on Wednesday April 9.  This is a free event and everyone is welcome.”

    Other events taking place include:

    Frogs of Bendigo
    Monday April 7
    10am – 12pm
    Riley Street Reserve, East Bendigo

    Nature by Night     
    Tuesday April 8
    6.30pm – 8.30pm
    O’Keefe Rail Trail, Wilkie Road

    Birds of Bendigo    
    Monday April 14
    7.30am – 9.30am
    Crusoe Reservoir

    Nature by Night
    Tuesday April 15
    6.30 – 8.30pm
    O’Keefe Rail Trail, Wilkie Road

    Bats of Bendigo
    Thursday April 17
    10am – 12pm
    Rosalind Park

    Bookings are essential for all events except the Nature in Hargreaves Mall pop up event. 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Six-Month Helene Anniversary, Governor Stein, Commissioner Troxler Call on USDA to Allocate Funds to North Carolina Farmers

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: On Six-Month Helene Anniversary, Governor Stein, Commissioner Troxler Call on USDA to Allocate Funds to North Carolina Farmers

    On Six-Month Helene Anniversary, Governor Stein, Commissioner Troxler Call on USDA to Allocate Funds to North Carolina Farmers
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    On the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene, Governor Josh Stein and Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler sent a letter to US Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins, requesting that USDA approve a block grant to support the recovery efforts of farmers in Western North Carolina. 

    “Agriculture plays a crucial role in the region’s economy, and the farmers of western North Carolina have always demonstrated resilience,” said Governor Josh Stein. “However, Hurricane Helene’s catastrophic impact has left them in a difficult position, with staggering losses they will not recoup without external assistance.”

    “The damage to farms from Hurricane Helene is almost unimaginable, and it is going to take a lot to put them back together,” said NC Commissioner of Agriculture Steve Troxler. “We will need funds to help with that recovery. We hope USDA will come through with block grant funding to do the things we know are going to be needed.”

    Stein and Troxler are requesting a block grant utilizing funds appropriated in the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2025. Conversations regarding the allocation of these funds have begun, and timely approval of funds will be critical for ensuring farmers can quickly return to sustainable production levels.

    Last week, Governor Stein signed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part 1 into law, which provides $200 million for North Carolina farmers who have experienced crop losses or infrastructure damage due to Hurricane Helene. Governor Stein continues to advocate for additional funding that supports farmers in repairing their infrastructure and removing debris from their land. 

    Click here to read Governor Stein and Commissioner Troxler’s letter.  

    Mar 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Six Months After Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein Honors Lives Lost & Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Western North Carolina

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: Six Months After Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein Honors Lives Lost & Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Western North Carolina

    Six Months After Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein Honors Lives Lost & Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Western North Carolina
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Today, on the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene, Governor Josh Stein visited western North Carolina to honor the 106 lives lost and reaffirm his commitment to supporting the region’s full recovery.  

    “Six months ago today, Hurricane Helene swept through western North Carolina and forever changed our state,” said Governor Josh Stein. “106 lives were tragically lost in the wake of Hurricane Helene, and their families and communities will forever grieve their absence. Today, we honor their legacies and recommit to supporting our neighbors every step of the way as they work to rebuild western North Carolina.” 

    Governor Stein met families who lost loved ones, including firefighters at the Fairview Fire Department, and celebrated the life of Tony Garrison, a volunteer battalion chief who dedicated his life to serving the Fairview community. Along with his nephew Brandon Ruppe, Garrison tragically died while attempting to rescue 11 individuals from a mudslide. Stein thanked the firefighters and first responders who heroically responded to the devastation of the storm and expressed his commitment to honoring the memory of those lost by continuing to fight for western North Carolina. He also signed a proclamation in commemoration of the six-month anniversary of Hurricane Helene and in remembrance of the 106 lives lost.

    Six months since Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina, Governor Stein continues to advocate for the ongoing relief efforts: 

    • Yesterday, Governor Stein submitted a finalized Action Plan for distributing $1.4 billion awarded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the fastest any state has submitted a plan following a major hurricane in the past decade.
    • Last week, the Governor signed the Disaster Recovery Act of 2025 – Part 1, which provides $524 million in total aid for western North Carolina. The bill calls for $120 million for a CDBG-DR Home Reconstruction and Repair program, $55 million in local government infrastructure grants to help small businesses, $100 million for private road and bridge repair, and $20 million for debris cleanup among other provisions.
    • Governor Stein continues to advocate for $19 billion in federal funds to restore damaged roads and other infrastructure, support home repair and renovation, and reduce impacts from future natural disasters.
    • FEMA also recently granted Governor Stein’s requests for 30-day extensions for the Public Assistance program and the Individual Assistance Program.

    See progress updates on the Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina’s recovery dashboard. 

    Mar 27, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement Regarding Climate-Related Disclosures Rule Litigation: The Commission has Left the Building

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Today, the SEC purports to walk away from the Climate-Related Disclosures Rule.[1] In building the rule, we journeyed up a mountain. The Commission spent at least four years taking input – we issued requests for information, made a proposal, opened and reopened comment periods when stakeholders asked for more time or the ability to provide more input, reviewed thousands of comment letters, carefully balanced the interest of investors, markets and issuers, and dutifully tailored a final rule in-line with our mission and our statutory authority.[2] It was an arduous process that led to a sound and strong result.

    By way of politics, the current Commission would like to dismantle that rule. And they would like to do so unlawfully. The Administrative Procedure Act (APA) governs the process by which we make rules. The APA prescribes a careful, considered framework that applies both to the promulgation of new rules and the rescission of existing ones.[3] There are no backdoors or shortcuts. But that is exactly what the Commission attempts today.

    By its letter, we are apparently letting the Climate-Related Disclosures Rule stand but are withdrawing from its defense in court. This leaves other parties, including the court, in a strange and perhaps untenable situation. In effect, the majority of the Commission is crossing their fingers and rooting for the demise of this rule, while they eat popcorn on the sidelines. The court should not take the bait.

    Rather, the SEC should do its job. It should defend its existing rule in litigation. If the agency chooses not to defend that rule, then it should ask the court to stay the litigation while the agency comes up with a rule that it is prepared to defend (be it by rescission or otherwise, but certainly in accordance with APA mandates). At the very least, if the court continues without the Commission’s participation, it should appoint counsel to do what the agency will not – vigorously advocate in the litigation on behalf of investors, issuers and the markets.

    The Commission’s actions are inconsistent with the APA, historical practice, and they embody bad governance. We do not have license to wholesale abandon agency action simply because the now-constituted Commission would not have supported the rule when it passed. The new majority cannot now rewrite history to change the outcome of a properly held Commission vote.

    To be clear, the arguments in the Commission’s Response Brief remain substantively sound. There has been no change in the relevant statutory authority; no new judicial precedent or doctrine; nor any change in the vigorous demand by the investing public. There is no new administrative record, comment file, or economic analysis. As I have said before,[4] the only change here is politics.

    Today’s actions are but one symptom of a much larger problem – the Commission taking shortcuts in order to achieve preferred outcomes – this time by skirting the APA. We are now firmly in a period of policy-making through avoidance and acquiescence, rather than policy-making through open, transparent, and public processes. This approach does not benefit the markets, capital formation, or investors. In this instance, the majority of the Commission is hoping to let someone else do their dirty work.

    [3] SeePerez v. Mortg. Bankers Ass’n, 575 U.S. 92, 101 (2015) (finding that the APA “mandate[s] that agencies use the same procedures when they amend or repeal a rule as they used to issue the rule in the first instance”).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: ‘Addressing Plastic Pollution Must Be at Core of Corporate Responsibility’, Secretary-General Tells Event Marking International Day of Zero Waste

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks to the General Assembly event on the International Day of Zero Waste, in New York today:

    The waste crisis is an issue that goes to the heart of how we produce, and how we consume.  And one that requires action at every level ‑ local, national and global.

    This year’s International Day focuses on fashion and textiles.  And rightly so.  Unless we accelerate action, dressing to kill could kill the planet.

    Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals ‑ many of them harmful to people and the environment.  It devours resources like land and water — putting pressure on ecosystems.  And it belches out greenhouse gases — inflaming the climate crisis.

    Clothes are being produced and discarded at a staggering rate — driven by business models that prioritize newness, speed and disposability. Every second, the equivalent of one garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill.

    Fashion is just the tip of a toxic iceberg.  Waste is an issue in every sector.

    Every year, humanity produces over 2 billion tons of garbage.  If you pack all that into shipping containers stacked end to end, they would stretch to the moon and back.

    Here on Earth, toxin-filled waste is seeping into our soil, our water and our air.  And ultimately into us.  As usual, the poorest pay the highest price.  More than 1 billion people live in slums and informal urban settlements, where waste management is non-existent and disease runs rampant.

    The rich world is flooding the Global South with garbage, from obsolete computers to single-use plastic and more.  Many nations do not have the infrastructure to process even a fraction of what is dumped on their shores.

    As a result, materials that could be recycled are burned or sent to landfill.  And waste-pickers are exposed to toxic chemicals as they sift through potentially hazardous materials, including broken electronics, in appalling conditions.

    We need a different approach:  one that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.

    And there are signs of hope.  Change is possible.  And it presents exciting opportunities.  In fashion, for example, designers are experimenting with recycled materials.  Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability. In many countries, resale markets are booming.

    And important initiatives are bringing together large and small businesses, industry associations, civil society and many others to drive sustainability across the sector.  They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, and the Fashion Pact.

    We must celebrate the power of these innovations to transform the industry.  But, we need more, and we need change in every sector.

    I welcome the work of the Chair and the First Lady and members of the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste to raise awareness and help meet the Sustainable Development Goals.  The fight against waste requires us all.

    Governments must act:  through policies, regulations and subsidies.  That promote sustainability and zero-waste initiatives.  That encourage businesses to adopt positive practices.  That provide decent jobs.  And that empower everyone ‑ not just the wealthy ‑ to afford products that last.

    The current negotiations for a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution — due in August this year — are a key opportunity for Governments to drive progress.  I urge them to take it.  And to translate any treaty into action to support consumers to make environmentally friendly choices, and into a clear roadmap across industries.

    Addressing plastic pollution must be at the core of corporate responsibility.  There is no space for greenwashing.  Businesses must increase circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.

    We need accountability for corporate sustainability commitments.  We need transparency for customers.  And we need consumers to use their purchasing power to encourage change.

    Reducing excessive consumption, valuing products that last and embracing exchanges and resales.  And we need young people and civil society to keep using their voices and power to demand change through advocacy.

    We must build on progress, to end the waste practices wasting our planet.  On this International Day, let us commit to do our part to clean up our act, and build a healthier, more sustainable world for us all.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Can Peter Dutton flip Labor voters to rewrite electoral history? It might just work

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Mark Kenny, Professor, Australian Studies Institute, Australian National University

    They are neither as leafy nor as affluent as much of the Liberal heartland, but Peter Dutton believes the outer ring-roads of Australia’s capitals provide the most direct route to power.
    He has been telling his MPs these once-safe Labor-voting suburbs are where the 2025 election can be won.

    From the moment the Queenslander assumed control of the Liberal Party in 2022, he was intent on this suburbs-first strategy, even if it seemed historically unlikely and involved repositioning his formerly business-loyal party as the new tribune of the working class. As he told Minerals Week in September 2023:

    The Liberal Party is the party of the worker. The Labor Party has become the party of the inner city elite and Greens.

    This has been Dutton’s long game. It’s an outsider approach reminiscent of what US President Donald Trump had achieved with disaffected blue-collar Democratic supporters in the United States, and what Boris Johnson managed by turning British Labour supporters in England’s de-industrialised north into Brexiteers and then Conservative voters.



    Read more:
    Labor’s in with a fighting chance, but must work around an unpopular leader

    A political gamble

    It was not the obvious play but it may prove the right one.

    After a tumultuous period in which the Liberals had cycled through three prime ministers and ignored a clear public clamour for policy modernisation on women, anti-corruption and climate change, the Morrison government had been bundled from office.

    Morrison hadn’t merely failed to attract disengaged undecideds in the middle-ground, but had haemorrhaged engaged constituents from some of Australia’s safest Liberal postcodes.

    Nineteen seats came off the Coalition tally in that election, yet Labor’s gain was only nine.

    Something fundamental had happened. Six new centrist independents now sat in Liberal heartland seats – all of them professional women.

    Numerically, they formed a kind of electoral Swiss Guard around the new Labor government’s otherwise weak primary vote and thin (two-seat) parliamentary majority.

    In a sharp visual contrast to the Coalition parties, women made up around half of Anthony Albanese’s new Labor government and he moved to prioritise the very things on which the Coalition had steadfastly refused to budge – including meaningful constitutional recognition of First Peoples.

    Albanese, it seemed, had tuned in to the zeitgeist. He would even go on to break a 102-year record a year later, becoming the first PM to increase his majority by taking a set off the opposition in a byelection. One more urban jewel shifted out of the Liberals’ column.

    Dutton, however, never blinked.

    His first press conference as leader in 2022 had been notable for the absence of the usual mea culpa – a suitably contrite acknowledgement that he’d heard the message from erstwhile Liberals who had abandoned their party for more progressive community independents.

    Instead, Dutton confidently responded that the 2025 election would be decided not in these comfortable seats but in the further-flung parts of Australia’s cities where people make long commutes to work and struggle to find adequate childcare and other services.

    It was a bold strategy because it meant targeting seats with healthy Labor margins.
    Canberra insiders wondered privately if this was brave or simply delusional. Some concluded it could only work as a two-election strategy.

    Many asked where a net gain of 19 seats would come from if not through the recovery of most or all of what became known as the “teal” seats?

    Yet the combative Liberal continued to focus on prising suburbanites away from Labor with a relentless campaign emphasising the rising cost-of-living under Labor.

    Three years later and even accounting for the first interest rate cut in over four years, it is Dutton’s strategy that has looked the more attuned to the electoral zeitgeist.

    So much so that he goes into this election with a realistic chance of breaking another longstanding electoral record: that of replacing a first-term government.

    This hasn’t been done federally since the Great Depression took out the Scullin Labor government of 1929-1931.

    It’s all about geography

    While only votes in ballot boxes will tell, the Coalition’s rebounding support appears to have come from the outer mortgage belt, just as he predicted.

    These voters absorb their political news sporadically via social media feeds, soft breakfast interviews, and car-radio snippets.

    These are media where Dutton’s crisp sound-bite messaging around cost-of-living pressures has simply been sharper and more resonant than Labor’s.

    And it is by this means that these voters may have picked up that a Dutton government would seek to deport dual citizens convicted of serious crimes, stop new migrants from buying property (a policy first ridiculed as inconsequential by Labor and since copied), and cut petrol excise, temporarily taking around $14 off the price of a tank of fuel.

    These voters may have noticed Dutton’s campaign against the supermarket duopoly, which includes the option of forced divestiture for so-called “price-gouging”.

    Recently, he added insurance conglomerates to that divestment hit-list.

    And they might have heard his dramatic nuclear “solution” to high energy costs and emissions (in reality, devilishly complex and expensive).

    On top of these, semi-engaged voters might recall Dutton’s culture-war topics for which he has regularly received generous media minutes, including:

    • his opposition to what he called “the Canberra Voice”
    • his defence of Australia Day
    • his refusal to stand in front of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander flags
    • his oft-made claim that a Greens-Teals-Labor preoccupation with progressive issues has left the cost-of-living crisis unaddressed.

    Beyond such rhetoric, Dutton has had little to say in detailed policy terms. But will that matter? However comprehensive, Labor’s list of legislated achievements has, arguably, achieved even less purchase in the electoral mind.

    Polls taken as the election campaign neared showed Dutton’s Coalition was well-placed to win seats from Labor in suburban and outer-suburban areas of Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney, as well as regional seats in the NSW Central Coast.

    These include seats such as Tangney and Bullwinkel in outer Perth; McEwen and Chisolm in suburban Melbourne, and as many as seven seats in NSW – mostly on the periphery of Sydney or in the industrial Hunter Valley region.

    There may be other seats to move also. Liberal sources say they like their chances in Goldstein, currently held by the Teal, Zoe Daniel. And with a recent conservative turn in the Northern Territory election to the CLP, seats like the ultra-marginal Lingiari and the numerically safer Solomon could also be in play.

    A YouGov MRP poll reported by the ABC on February 16 put Dutton’s chances of securing an outright majority after the election at 20%.

    It measured the Coalition’s two-party-preferred support at 51.1% over Labor on 48.9%. That represents a swing towards the Coalition of 3.2%. But it is where the swing occurs that matters most.

    Seat-by-seat assessment of the YouGov results suggested the Coalition would be likely to win about 73 seats (median), with a lower estimate of 65 and an upper estimate of 80, if a federal election was held today.

    The same modelling indicates Labor would go backwards, holding about 66 seats in the next parliament, with a lower estimate of 59 and an upper estimate of 72. This is just one, albeit unusually large poll, but it will concern Albanese that even on its upper margin of Labor seat holds, he would not retain a majority.

    Of course, the campaign can change things and already, the delayed start caused by Cyclone Alfred introduced further variables in the form of a federal budget, replete with income tax cuts.

    A succession of polls conducted through March point to a Labor recovery with a Redbridge poll of 2,007 respondents, taken over March 3–11 putting Labor ahead 51%–49%. The same poll however showed a majority of people worry that the country is heading in the wrong direction.

    The final contest

    In political circles, people talk about momentum in campaigns, and say things like “the trend is our friend”. If true, that electoral amity has leaned decisively towards Dutton for the past year, and only recently to Labor.

    But caution is always advised. Election counts invariably throw up oddities – swings being more (or less) marked in one state compared to others, and seats retained (or lost) against a broader national trend on the night.

    Such surprises give the lie to the concept of uniform swings and makes prediction of a final seat count more difficult.

    If the polling consensus is broadly correct – rather than being the result of herding – and the source of Dutton’s rising support is former Labor suburbs, the question is, will those vote gains materialise at sufficient scale to translate into seat gains?

    If so, this election could redraw the political map and require new thinking about major party voting bases, policies and strategies into the future.

    The final outcome seems likely to turn on three things:

    1. Dutton’s ability to stay on message about the cost-of-living through the campaign when others in his team, buoyed by Trump’s war on wokeness, want to raise tendentious social issues.

    2. Albanese’s effectiveness in convincing wayward Labor voters that Labor has in fact delivered, that the economy has turned the corner, and that Dutton’s comparative toughness is code for budget cuts that would hit them hardest.

    3. Unforeseen events – at home or abroad.

    The Liberal leader is surprisingly well-placed. But remember, he is coming from a long way back.

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

    – ref. Can Peter Dutton flip Labor voters to rewrite electoral history? It might just work – https://theconversation.com/can-peter-dutton-flip-labor-voters-to-rewrite-electoral-history-it-might-just-work-248664

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia’s embrace of independent political candidates shows there’s no such thing as a safe seat

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joshua Black, Visitor, School of History, Australian National University

    At the last federal election, Australia elected the largest lower house crossbench in its post-war federal history.

    In addition to four Greens MPs, Rebekah Sharkie from the Centre Alliance and Bob Katter (with his own micro-party), there were ten independent MPs, seven of them new to parliament. These MPs have the freedom and flexibility to vote on every piece of legislation without having to adhere to any party-room pledge.

    Micro-parties and independents also fared well in the Senate in 2022, thanks in part to the fact that we use proportional representation to elect our senators. In a half-Senate election with 40 vacancies, six went to the Greens, one to Independent ACT candidate David Pocock, one to United Australia Party Senator Ralph Babet and one to Pauline Hanson in Queensland.

    Defections during the 47th parliament grew the crossbench even further. Five former Coalition MPs and Senators have moved to the crossbench, one over allegations of sexual harassment, one over the Voice to Parliament referendum and three over bruising preselection defeats.

    Senator Fatima Payman defected from the Labor Party last year, citing problems with the party’s stance on Palestine, and has now set up the Australia’s Voice party.

    Getting elected

    Independents hardly enjoy a level playing field in federal elections. Brian Costar and Jennifer Curtin pointed out in their book, Rebels with a Cause, that independent candidates lack equal access to the electoral roll, do not initially benefit from the public funding that flows consistently to the major parties, and cannot be listed above the line on the Senate ballot paper unless they form a group or party.

    Unless they are party defectors with a seat in parliament already, independent candidates also lack the advantages of incumbency. Previous research from the Australia Institute has shown the dollar value of an incumbent MP’s entitlements (in terms of their salary and those of staff, printing and travel allowances, public exposure), is about $2.9 million per term.

    Once elected, though, Independents have shown the major parties that they can be very hard to beat. Helen Haines and her predecessor as Member for Indi, Cathy McGowan, have won four consecutive elections between them. Zali Steggall, who famously beat former prime minister Tony Abbott in the electorate of Warringah in 2019, has been re-elected once, and the people of metropolitan Hobart have returned former public servant and whistleblower Andrew Wilkie to Canberra five times in a row.

    No safe seats

    Political parties and journalists have conventionally treated certain seats as “safe” (if the winning party’s vote two-party preferred margin was 60% or higher), others as “fairly safe” (if the winning party’s 2PP margin was between 56% and 60%) and others as “marginal” (those won by less than 56% at the previous election).

    But the days of safe and marginal seats are over. These terms belong to an age of two-party contests and more predictable preference flows. As Bill Browne and Richard Denniss of the Australia Institute have pointed out, the major party vote share has now “crossed a threshold” below which the idea of “safe seats” becomes redundant.

    Independent candidates can win with a relatively low share of the primary vote. In 2022, community independent Kylea Tink won the electorate of North Sydney with 25% of the primary vote, having ranked favourably, but not first, on many voters’ ballots.

    Holding on?

    Several contests involving current crossbenchers may prove nationally influential in the event of a hung parliament. Tink, whose electorate has been abolished in a routine redistribution, will not be among the incumbents hoping to hold their seat.

    The Liberal Party, by some accounts, perceives the Perth seat of Curtin, won by community independent Kate Chaney in 2022, as an important litmus test for the future. January saw a “surge in volunteers and donations” for Liberal candidate Tom White’s campaign, according to media reports.

    Elsewhere, the Liberals are attempting to meet incumbent community independents with candidates that more closely resemble them. The Liberal candidate for Warringah, Jaimee Rogers, is, like the sitting member Zali Steggall, a former athlete with a public profile. Wentworth candidate Ro Knox, a former Deloitte consultant, will run against Allegra Spender, whose own pitch for re-election has emphasised tax reform and productivity.

    In Victoria, Monique Ryan, who won the seat of Kooyong from then-treasurer Josh Frydenberg, will this time face Amelia Hamer, a local woman, professional and grand-niece of former Victorian premier Rupert Hamer.

    There are exceptions to that pattern. Former RSL President James Brown was preselected as the Liberal candidate for Mackellar, currently held by community independent Sophie Scamps. And in Goldstein, there will be a rerun of the previous contest between community independent Zoe Daniel and her Liberal predecessor Tim Wilson.

    At least three of the major party defectors in both houses are hoping to keep their seats, too. Gerard Rennick, formerly a Coalition senator who was denied a winnable spot on the Liberal National Party ticket, has registered the Gerard Rennick People First Party ahead of his bid for re-election this year. Rennick has pointed out that this will get his name “above the line” on the Senate ballot paper.

    Former Liberals Ian Goodenough and Russell Broadbent have both indicated they will run as independents to defend their seats – Moore and Monash respectively – from their erstwhile colleagues.

    Room for growth?

    Despite the watershed result in 2022, the crossbench may grow yet. Fundraising group Climate 200 is reported to be backing up to 35 candidates across the country, and an army of volunteers has already begun to mobilise in support.

    Health professional Carolyn Heise will hope that, with the support of the new campaign fundraiser the Regional Voices Fund, her second campaign in the regional electorate of Cowper may land her in parliament alongside Indi MP Helen Haines.

    The retirement of shadow minister Paul Fletcher as member for Bradfield in inner-Sydney makes for a particularly interesting contest in that electorate. Gisele Kapterian, who won Liberal preselection against Warren Mundine, will campaign against community independent Nicolette Boele, who would need a swing of only 5% in her favour to win on her second attempt.

    In Victoria’s western district, community independent Alex Dyson will attempt for the third time to win the seat of Wannon from shadow immigration minister Dan Tehan. Dyson came close in 2022 and would need only a 4% swing (two-candidate preferred) to win this time.

    In 2022, community groups supported independent candidate Penny Ackery in her campaign against then-minister and now shadow treasurer Angus Taylor. The two-candidate preferred vote left the seat “relatively safe” (in old terms), but declining support for the Coalition saw the state electorate of Wollondilly (within Hume’s borders) elect community independent Judy Hannan in a “surprise win” at the 2023 state election.

    There is plenty of potential for surprise victories and shock defeats at the forthcoming election. Community independents are running in at least four Labor-held seats. What should surprise nobody is that every vote in every seat will count on election day.

    Joshua Black is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Australia Institute.

    – ref. Australia’s embrace of independent political candidates shows there’s no such thing as a safe seat – https://theconversation.com/australias-embrace-of-independent-political-candidates-shows-theres-no-such-thing-as-a-safe-seat-250751

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Albanese calls May 3 election, with cost of living the central battleground

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Australians will go to the polls on May 3 for an election squarely centred on the cost of living.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese visited Governor-General Sam Mostyn at Yarralumla first thing on Friday morning.

    Later he told an 8am news conference at parliament house the election choice was “between Labor’s plan to keep building or Peter Dutton’s plan to cut.

    “Only Labor has the plan to make you better off over the next three years,” he said. “Now is not the time for cutting and wrecking, punching down.”

    Less than a week after the federal budget and following an earlier delay caused by Cyclone Alfred, the formal campaign starts with government and opposition neck and neck and minority government considered a real possibility.

    But in recent days, the government has gained more momentum and Labor enters the campaign more confident than at the start of the year.

    The aggregated January-March quarterly Newspoll had the Coalition leading Labor 51-49%, but Albanese leading Peter Dutton as preferred PM 45% to 40%. Polling only shows a snapshot of the present, and the campaign itself could be crucial to the election result.

    This is the fourth consecutive election launched off the back of a budget, with both sides this week bidding for voters’ support with big handouts.

    Labor pushed through legislation for its $17 billion tax cut, the first stage of which comes in mid next year. Opposition leader Peter Dutton in his budget reply promised a 12-month halving of excise on petrol and diesel and a gas reservation scheme.

    Labor goes into the election with 78 seats in the lower house, and the Coalition with 57 (counting the seats of two recent Liberal defectors). The large crossbench includes four Greens and half a dozen “teals”.

    With a majority being 76 seats in the new 150-seat parliament, the Coalition needs to win 19 seats for an outright majority. This would require a uniform swing of 5.3% (although swings are not uniform). A swing of less than 1% could take Labor into minority. The Coalition would need a swing of about 3.6% to end with more seats than the government. While all states are important if the result is close, Victoria and NSW are regarded as the crucial battlegrounds.

    If the Coalition won, it would be the first time that a first-term government had been defeated since 1931, during the great depression.

    Since the end of the second world war, while all first term governments have been reelected, each saw a two-party swing against them.

    One challenge for Albanese is that he has only a tiny majority, providing little buffer against a swing.

    The combined vote of the major parties will be something to watch, with the vote steadily declining from 85.47% of the vote just 19 years ago at the 2007 election, to only 68.28% at the 2022 election.

    Labor won the last election with a two-party vote of
    52.13% to the Coalition’s 47.87%.

    As of December 31 2024, 17,939,818 Australians were enrolled to vote.

    The start of the formal campaign follows a long “faux” campaign in which both leaders have been travelling the length and breadth of the country non-stop, with the government making a series of major spending announcement but the opposition holding back on policy.

    Marginal seats based on the redistribution

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

    – ref. Albanese calls May 3 election, with cost of living the central battleground – https://theconversation.com/albanese-calls-may-3-election-with-cost-of-living-the-central-battleground-250774

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Fast fashion fuelling global waste crisis, UN chief warns

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    By Vibhu Mishra

    Climate and Environment

    Fast fashion is accelerating an environmental catastrophe, with the equivalent of one garbage truck’s worth of clothing either incinerated or sent to landfill every second, the UN chief warned on Thursday.

    Speaking at an event commemorating Sunday’s International Day of Zero Waste, Secretary-General António Guterres called for urgent action to curb the textile industry’s devastating impact on the planet.

    “Dressing to kill could kill the planet,” he stressed.

    The fashion industry is one of the world’s most polluting sectors, responsible for up to eight per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.

    It consumes vast amounts of water – 215 trillion litres annually, equivalent to 86 million Olympic-sized swimming pools – and relies on thousands of chemicals, many of them harmful to human health and ecosystems.

    Despite these staggering figures, clothing is being produced and discarded at an unprecedented rate, driven by business models that prioritise speed and disposability over sustainability.

    A crisis woven into our clothes

    Mr. Guterres cautioned that the waste crisis in fashion is only a symptom of a much larger global problem.

    Humans globally generate more than two billion tonnes of waste each year – enough to wrap around the planet 25 times if packed into standard shipping containers – polluting land, air and water, disproportionately affecting the poorest communities.

    “The rich world is flooding the Global South with garbage, from obsolete computers to single-use plastics,” he said.

    Many countries lack the infrastructure to process even a fraction of what is dumped on their shores, leading to increased pollution and hazardous working conditions for waste pickers.

    This year’s focus: Fashion

    Fashion is under the spotlight for this year’s international day, underscoring staggering resource consumption and pollution levels. It is an industry where trends change rapidly, garments are often discarded after being worn a handful of times.

    Experts estimate that doubling the lifespan of clothing could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 44 per cent.

    However, it is also an industry with exciting opportunities to transform lives and livelihoods for the better.

    “Designers are experimenting with recycled materials. Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability. In many countries, resale markets are booming,” Mr. Guterres said, urging everyone to contribute to the fight against waste.

    UNEP Video | Fast fashion is fuelling an ecological crisis

    Shun greenwashing

    Governments, he said, must enact policies and regulations that promote sustainability and zero-waste initiatives.

    Businesses must move beyond “greenwashing” and take real steps to reduce waste, increase circularity, and improve resource efficiency across supply chains.

    Consumers, in turn, can play a crucial role by making environmentally responsible choices – valuing durable products, reducing excessive consumption, and embracing resale markets.

    “There is no space for greenwashing,” he emphasised. “Businesses must increase circularity, waste reduction, and resource efficiency across their supply chains.”

    Beyond the fashion industry, the broader fight against waste requires global coordination, he added.

    More than a billion people live in slums or informal settlements without proper waste management, leading to severe health risks. Unregulated dumping and poor waste disposal practices are exacerbating pollution and biodiversity loss worldwide.

    “Let us commit to do our part to clean up our act, and build a healthier, more sustainable world for us all,” Mr. Guterres concluded.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Highway 1 lanes closed in Hope for sinkhole repairs

    Drivers are advised Highway 1 will be reduced to one lane eastbound and one lane westbound starting tonight, March 27, 2025, at Flood Hope Road in Hope (Exit 165) to address a rapidly deteriorating sinkhole across the eastbound lanes.

    A sinkhole initially appeared on Highway 1 in November 2024. It was quickly repaired and has been continually monitored while a design was underway for a permanent fix.

    Due to heavy rainfall, conditions have deteriorated and now require further interim repairs to ensure the safety of motorists. The repairs will begin tonight and will extend through the weekend and into next week.

    A highway median crossover will be implemented by moving an eastbound lane into the westbound fast lane for a 300-metre stretch of Highway 1. Eastbound highway traffic will continue to be detoured through the median crossover until repairs are complete and safety assessments confirm the eastbound lanes can be safely reopened. Commercial vehicles up to five metres in width can be accommodated through this crossover detour.

    Eastbound Exit 165 will be closed throughout the work and vehicles can take Exit 168 to access Flood Hope Road.

    Drivers should plan for delays. Peak traffic volumes are expected between noon and 10 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, especially for traffic travelling west toward Vancouver due to spring break travel. Drivers are urged to travel outside of these periods when possible or plan for additional travel time given the congestion expected.

    A reduced speed zone will be in place and drivers are reminded to obey all signage and be aware that roadside workers are present. 

    An update on the estimated time of full reopening will be provided on DriveBC on Monday, March 31, once repair work progresses through the weekend. Ongoing updated traffic information for this project will be available at: https://drivebc.ca/

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Press Briefing Transcript: Julie Kozack, Director, Communications Department, March 27, 2025

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    March 27, 2025

    SPEAKER:  Ms. Julie Kozack, Director of the Communications Department, IMF

    MS. KOZACK: Good morning, everyone, and welcome to today’s IMF Press Briefing. It’s great to see you all, those of you here in person and, of course, our colleagues online as well.

    I am Julie Kozak, Director of Communications at the IMF.  And as usual, this program press briefing is embargoed until 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time in the United States.  I will start with two short announcements and then I’ll take your questions in person, on Webex, and via the Press Center. 

    First, the 2025 Spring Meetings of the IMF and World Bank Group will take place from Monday, April 21st, to Saturday, April 26th.  The press registration to attend these meetings in person in Washington is now open, and you can register through www.imfconnect.org. 

    And second, I would like to announce that the Managing Director, Kristalina Georgieva, will be delivering her Curtain Raiser speech outlining the key issues facing the world economy.  The speech and a related fireside chat will be held here at IMF headquarters on Thursday, April 17th.  It will be open to registered media and via live streaming on our Press Center and IMF social media channels.  And we will provide more details closer to the date.

    And with that, I will now open the floor for your questions.  For those connecting virtually, please turn on both your camera and microphone when you are speaking.  And I’m now over to you.

    All right, let’s start with you.  Thank you.  Microphone here in the front. 

    QUESTIONER: Thank you very much, Julie.  Minister Luis Caputo announced this morning in Argentina that the Argentine government had agreed with the IMF staff amount of $20 billion for the new program.  I’m sure you know this was a very highly unusual announcement.  I wanted to know first if this was coordinated with the IMF, if you had agreed with Mr. Caputo to release this information?  Second, if you can confirm that the actual amount of the program that’s been discussed is $20 billion.  Then the IMF has a lot of internal processes before a program is actually announced, so could this number change through that process?  And if you can give us a sense of the timing before the actual staff-level agreement announcement and eventually the board meeting and that’s all.  Thanks. 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, very good. Thank you. Other questions on Argentina. 

    QUESTIONER: Mr. Caputo said the disbursement will be $20 billion.  Will it be a single disbursement, just one single disbursement?  Thank you, Julie.

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, thank you. Let’s go online.

    QUESTIONER: Hi, good morning.  Well, we are all referring to the speech of Caputo, which was a big surprise in Argentina at least.  So one of the rumors that Minister Caputo denied was that the IMF was demanding a 30 percent devaluation.  My question is, does the IMF believe an exchange rate correction is necessary?  Thank you, Julie. 

    MS. KOZACK: Thank you.

    QUESTIONER: Yes.  Hi, Julie.  Thank you.  So my question is, first of all, if you can confirm how much of the $20 billion dollars are going to be freely available?  And second, if there is any certainty at this stage of the negotiations whether the new program will include modifications to the current exchange rate regime, as the market and private sector seem to have considered in recent days?  Thank you.

    QUESTIONER: Good morning.  Well, I would like to know if a scheme of exchange rate bands is being considered in this agreement and if the agreement implies an increase in depth with the IMF?  And finally, if there is a technical agreement already done?

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, thank you. Anybody else want to come in on Argentina? Okay, let me go ahead and take these questions. 

    So first I want to just start by saying, and this is consistent with our previous statements, that Argentina has embarked on a truly impressive stabilization program.  And the country has shown that it’s determined to steer the — the authorities have shown that they are determined to steer the economy toward a more sustainable path. 

    Since the end of 2023, inflation has declined thanks to a very large fiscal consolidation and steps to heal the Central Bank’s balance sheet.  These measures have been complemented by deregulation, market reforms, and the elimination of distortions and some controls.  The reforms are starting to bear fruit.  Despite the sharp macroeconomic adjustment, economic activity is recovering strongly, real wages are increasing and poverty is declining.  This decline in poverty also reflects, of course, a significant increase in social assistance to vulnerable groups.  There is also a shared recognition between the Fund and the authorities that now is the time to move to the next steps of the authority’s stabilization plan. 

    In this regard, significant progress has been made in reaching understandings toward a new IMF supported program.  And this has followed intense and productive discussion, and those include in-person meetings in Buenos Aires and also here in Washington, D.C.  And at the Fund we have engaged at all levels. 

    What I can say now is that discussions on a new Fund supported program are very advanced and those discussions include discussions around a sizable financing package.  The size of that package is ultimately to be determined by our Executive Board, but I can confirm that discussions are focusing on a sizable package. 

    As for our processes, we do have a set of processes that we always follow when engaging with country authorities on a program.  And as part of these routine internal processes, we have also been engaging with our Executive Board.  With respect to the policies that will be covered under the program, as we’ve noted in the past here, discussions are still ongoing on the specific policies that will be covered under the program. 

    What I can say is that to sustain the gains that have been achieved so far by the authorities, there is a shared recognition about the need to continue to adopt a consistent set of fiscal, monetary, and foreign exchange policies while fostering further and furthering growth enhancing reforms.  And what I can also say is that we will keep you updated as discussions continue. 

    QUESTIONER: What about the amount?

    MS. KOZACK: So with respect to the amount, the amount or the size of the program will be determined ultimately by our Executive Board. What I can say today is that discussions are focused on a sizable financing program.

    And in terms of your question about single disbursement versus a phased disbursement, as with all of our programs, disbursements will come in tranches over the life of the program.  But the exact phasing and the size of each tranche is also, of course, part of the discussions that are underway. 

    QUESTIONER: The number is okay?

    MS. KOZACK: All I’m saying now is that the discussion is around a sizable financing program. That’s what I can say today.

    QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie. 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay. Let’s go here.

    QUESTIONER: Thank you so much, Julie.  So I would like to ask you about the IMF prospects on the Russian economy.  Does the IMF plan to update its outlook on Russian GDP growth in 2025 during its next review?  What is the overall perspective on inflation easing signs?  Does the IMF plan to highlight any changes in potential monetary policy from the Central Bank?  And what is, from the IMF perspective, the current level of business activity in the Russian economy?  Thanks. 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, thank you. On Russia.

    QUESTIONER: The Central Bank of Russia has maintained its key interest rate at 21 percent since October 2024 to combat inflation.  How does the IMF assess the effectiveness of this high-interest rate policy in controlling inflation?  And what are the IMF’s projections for Russia’s inflation trajectory in 2025 and what factors are expected to influence these trends?  Thank you. 

    MS. KOZACK: Great. Thank you very much. Are there any other questions on Russia?  Okay. 

    What I can say about the Russian economy is that our assessment is that the Russian economy was affected by overheating in 2024 and growth was driven by private consumption, which was supported by a tight labor market, fast-growing wages, and buoyant credit from the banking system into the economy.  This overheating also reflected strong corporate investment.  Fiscal policy did play a role in driving growth. 

    In 2025, what I can say is, and here I’m quoting from the January WEO, and I can confirm that we will be updating the projections for Russia, as with all countries for the April WEO.  But in January, we said we expected a slowdown in 2025 as the impact of tighter monetary policy took hold and the cyclical recovery ran its course, meaning that the boost to growth waned into 2025.  So in January, we had growth slowing from 3.8 percent in 2024 to 1.4 percent in 2025.  And again, that assessment will be updated as part of the WEO. 

    Now, with respect to inflation in particular, inflation in Russia remains high.  It is well above the Central Bank of Russia’s target, which is 4 percent.  And this partly reflects the tight labor market and also strong wage growth.  Currently, we are not seeing signs of an easing of inflation, although the projections that we had in the January WEO did suggest an easing of price pressures in the coming year.  And of course, just to reiterate that our assessment of Russia, the Russian economy, will be updated as part of the WEO. 

    QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie.  My question is on the inflation expectation at the global level, not only U.S. but also in Japan recently, inflation expectation raised substantially up.  And how much are you concerned about such movement translating into the real inflation and, in the near future, given the tariff policies conducted by U.S. Administrations?  Thank you. 

    MS. KOZACK: Thank you. So what I can say on inflation at the global level, and this is, again, I’m going to be quoting here from our January and October WEOs. So what we expected at the time of our January WEO update was that global inflation would continue to decline.  We expected in January that it would reach 4.2 percent in 2025 and 3.5 percent in 2026.  And at that time, we expected that advanced economies would achieve their inflation targets earlier than emerging market economies. 

    Now, since that January update, what we have seen is greater than expected persistence in inflation.  And so this is a key factor that will be taken into account as we are updating not only our growth projections in the April WEO, but also our inflation projections.  And what this means for central banks and policymakers is, of course, that agile and proactive monetary policy is going to be needed to ensure that inflation expectations remain well anchored.  And of course, we’ll have a full discussion of inflation developments at the time of the WEO. 

    QUESTIONER: Hi.  Thanks, Julie.  I’m wondering if you can weigh in a bit on President Trump’s announcement yesterday of universal car tariffs of 25 percent.  This is going to send shock waves through a production system throughout the world that provides employment to millions of people, and supports economies all over.  I know it’s early to gauge the exact impact of what this would mean, but I’m wondering if you can talk directionally about how this could start to impact countries, particularly emerging markets that are in that supply chain.  Thanks. 

    MS. KOZACK: Thank you. Same topic, right?

    QUESTIONER: Thank you.  We have seen the impacts of the — sorry, let me start over again.  So following up on what David said regarding the tariff, how do you see the impact on these on economies — on the African continent in particular?  And also, you know, we are seeing more of nationalism and protectionism.  It’s from the U.S., and it’s spreading around the world as well.  So how concerned is the IMF regarding these. 

    QUESTIONER: Just to follow up.  In terms of the WEO that you’re preparing, how will these tariff actions be filtered into that in terms of inflation projections as it raises costs, does the IMF sort of see these as a one-time jump up in price level or is it going to contribute to ongoing inflation?  Thank you. 

    MS. KOZACK: Same topic?

    QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie.  As a result of all the policy that we are witnessing right now, can the IMF rule out any risk of recession in the United States in 2025, 2026, or if we are not talking about annual decline, could you see any risks in quarter estimates? 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, so let me say a few — respond to this set of questions.

    What I can say today is, we’ve seen several new developments on the trade front over the past several weeks and of course yesterday we had announcements about tariffs on the auto sector.  And the U.S. administration has also noted and announced that it will — that there will be new announcements coming next week on April 2nd. 

    What  I can say today is that we are in the process of assessing the impact of all of these announcements, and we will continue to do that work in the context of our World Economic Outlook that will be released as I noted in April. 

    We have previously noted that for countries like Mexico and Canada that if sustained tariffs could have a significant effect on Mexico and Canada, a significant adverse impact on Mexico and Canada.  For other regions and groups of countries, we’re in the process of undertaking that analysis at the moment. 

    What I can say about the way or the process by which this will be incorporated into the WEO, the way the process works is we will look at all of the announcements and economic developments and data up until as far as we can into the process.  But at some point, there will need to be sort of a cutoff date after which we’re no longer able to incorporate new information.  We’re not there yet.  But at some point in the process there will be a date after which we just for production processes, need to kind of stop the churning of the data. 

    What the WEO will then have is a very clear exposition of what is incorporated into our baseline forecast, our main forecast.  We’ll talk about the assumptions that are included and any policy announcements and actions that are included in the baseline forecast.  Anything that occurs after our cut-off date will be discussed in qualitative terms or as part of the risks section of the report.  But we will aim, of course, in that report to be very clear about what is incorporated into the forecast and what is not incorporated into the forecast.  And of course, you will have an opportunity the week of the Annual Meetings to not only read the WEO, but we will have a press conference led by our Economic Counselor to answer detailed questions around the forecast.  And we will also have the press conferences of our regional area department heads to talk to answer specific regional questions. 

    And just maybe on the question about the U.S. economy, just to say perhaps a few words.  What I can say now is that the performance of the U.S. economy has been remarkably strong throughout the recent monetary policy tightening cycle.  Activity and employment exceeded expectations, and the disinflation process proved less costly than most feared.  And this was our assessment at the time of our January WEO.  Since then, of course, there have been many developments.  Large policy shifts have been announced, and the incoming data is signaling a slowdown in economic activity from the very strong pace in 2024.  All of this said, recession is not part of our baseline. 

    Let’s now move online. 

    QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie, for taking my questions.  My question is on Sri Lanka.  Sri Lanka’s Central Bank Governor has hinted, also suggested that the heavily indebted state-owned enterprises should be listed in the Colombo Stock Exchange as part of a program to perform these enterprises.  What is the IMF’s take on such a proposal given that the program also calls for extensive reforms in SEOs — I beg your pardon, SOEs? At the same time, $334 million was approved by the IMF Executive Board recently.  Has that tranche been given to Sri Lanka?  If not, why?  Thank you. 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay. Any other questions on Sri Lanka online? Okay, let me take this question on Sri Lanka. 

    So first, let me just step back on Sri Lanka.  First, I’ll say that on Friday, February 28th, the IMF Executive Board approved the Third Review under the EFF (Extended Fund Facility) arrangement for Sri Lanka.  And this provided the country with immediate access to $334 million of support.  So, yes, once the Board approved that Third Review, the $334 million was made available to Sri Lanka to support its economic policies and reforms.  And with this $334 million, it brings total financial support from the IMF to Sri Lanka to $1.34 billion. 

    What I can also add is that reforms in Sri Lanka are bearing fruit.  The economic recovery is gaining momentum.  Inflation remains low in Sri Lanka, revenue collection on the fiscal side is improving, and international reserves are continuing to accumulate.  Economic growth reached 5 percent in 2024, and that was after two years of economic contraction.  And we do expect the recovery to continue in 2025 in Sri Lanka.  These are all very positive developments for Sri Lanka and for the people of Sri Lanka. 

    All of this said, the economy still does remain vulnerable, and therefore it is critical that the reform momentum be sustained to ensure that macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability are durably achieved. 

    And with respect to your specific question, I don’t have anything for you on that regarding the SOEs, but we’ll come back to you bilaterally. 

    I have one question here online from Shoaib Nizami from ARY News TV.  And the question is, when will Pakistan receive Climate Resilience Funds?  So before I turn to this, are there any other questions on Pakistan?  Okay, let me talk a little bit about Pakistan then. 

    So again, just stepping back to explain where we are with Pakistan.  On September 25th of 2024, the Executive Board approved a 37-month EFF arrangement for Pakistan, and it was for $7 billion.  The First Review took place… the First Review mission took place recently, and a staff-level agreement on the First Review was reached on March 25th.  And in addition to reaching a staff-level agreement on the EFF arrangement for the First Review, there was also a staff-level agreement reached on an RSF, a Resilience and Sustainability Facility, that was also reached on March 25th.

    Under the EFF part – so I’m going to talk about both of them.  So the EFF part, which is the First Review under the program, once approved by the IMF’s Executive Board, that would enable Pakistan to have access of about $1 billion for that disbursement.  For the RSF over the length of the arrangement, again subject to approval by the IMF’s Executive Board, the staff-level agreement references an amount of $1.3 billion and that access will be over the life of the RSF, delivered in tranches. 

    Okay.  Kyle, you had a question in the room. 

    QUESTIONER: Good morning.  Kyle Fitzgerald with the National.  So, following the recent staff visit to Lebanon, the IMF and Lebanon agreed to remain in close contact on a new economic reform program.  I was just wondering if you could provide more clarity on what the next steps are and what a potential timeline for this looks like.  Thank you. 

    MS. KOZACK: Okay, very good. With respect to Lebanon, I also have another question online which I am going to read out loud. It is from Sabine Oawais from Annahar (phonetic).  There are two questions here.  The first is when does the IMF anticipate the signing of a program with Lebanon?  What prior actions must the Lebanese government take before reaching final agreement?  The second is, given Lebanon’s ongoing economic challenges, what specific reforms does the IMF see as critical for stabilizing the country’s financial system and securing a sustainable recovery? 

    Before I respond on Lebanon, are there any other questions on Lebanon?  Okay.

    So on Lebanon, an IMF fact-finding mission visited Lebanon from March 10th to 13th.  And on that mission, the staff welcomed the authority’s request for a new IMF-supported program to support the authority’s efforts to address Lebanon’s significant economic challenges.  We have received, obviously, this request for a new program.  We’re working with the authorities to help them develop their comprehensive economic reform program.  The engagement and discussions with the Lebanese authorities are ongoing. 

    And in terms of what is needed, what I can say is that first and foremost what is needed is a comprehensive strategy for economic rehabilitation.  This is going to be critical to restore growth, reduce unemployment and improve social conditions.  The authority’s reform program is going to need to be focused on fiscal and debt sustainability, financial sector restructuring, international reserves are continuing to accumulate.  Economic growth reached 5 percent in 2024, and that was after two years of economic contraction.  And we do expect the recovery to continue in 2025 in Sri Lanka.  These are all very positive developments for Sri Lanka and for the people of Sri Lanka. 

    All of this said, the economy still does remain vulnerable, and therefore it is critical that the reform momentum be sustained to ensure that macroeconomic stability and debt sustainability are durably achieved. 

    And with respect to your specific question, I don’t have anything for you on that regarding the SOEs, but we’ll come back to you bilaterally. 

    I have one question here online . And the question is, when will Pakistan receive Climate Resilience Funds?  So, before I turn to this, are there any other questions on Pakistan?  Okay, let me talk a little bit about Pakistan then. 

    So again, just stepping back to explain where we are with Pakistan.  On September 25th of 2024, the Executive Board approved a 37-month EFF arrangement for Pakistan, and it was for $7 billion.  The First Review took place… the First Review mission took place recently, and a staff-level agreement on the First Review was reached on March 25th.  And in addition to reaching a staff-level agreement on the EFF arrangement for the First Review, there was also a staff-level agreement reached on an RSF, a Resilience and Sustainability Facility, that was also reached on March 25th.

    Under the EFF part – so I’m going to talk about both of them.  So the EFF part, which is the First Review under the program, once approved by the IMF’s Executive Board, that would enable Pakistan to have access of about $1 billion for that disbursement.  For the RSF over the length of the arrangement, again subject to approval by the IMF’s Executive Board, the staff-level agreement references an amount of $1.3 billion and that access will be over the life of the RSF, delivered in tranches. 

    QUESTIONER: Good morning. So, following the recent staff visit to Lebanon, the IMF and Lebanon agreed to remain in close contact on a new economic reform program.  I was just wondering if you could provide more clarity on what the next steps are and what a potential timeline for this looks like.  MS. KOZACK: Okay, very good.  With respect to Lebanon, I also have another question online which I am going to read out loud.  There are two questions here.  The first is when does the IMF anticipate the signing of a program with Lebanon?  What prior actions must the Lebanese government take before reaching final agreement?  The second is, given Lebanon’s ongoing economic challenges, what specific reforms does the IMF see as critical for stabilizing the country’s financial system and securing a sustainable recovery? 

    Before I respond on Lebanon, are there any other questions on Lebanon?  So on Lebanon, an IMF fact-finding mission visited Lebanon from March 10th to 13th.  And on that mission, the staff welcomed the authority’s request for a new IMF-supported program to support the authority’s efforts to address Lebanon’s significant economic challenges.  We have received, obviously, this request for a new program.  We’re working with the authorities to help them develop their comprehensive economic reform program.  The engagement and discussions with the Lebanese authorities are ongoing. 

    And in terms of what is needed, what I can say is that first and foremost what is needed is a comprehensive strategy for economic rehabilitation.  This is going to be critical to restore growth, reduce unemployment and improve social conditions.  The authority’s reform program is going to need to be focused on fiscal and debt sustainability, financial sector restructuring, governance improvements, and reforms to state owned enterprises.  And critically, it’s going to be important to enhance data provision, to improve transparency and to inform policymaking.  And that is the latest update that I have on Lebanon.  We’ll of course keep you updated and I just want to reassure that we are fully committed to working with the Lebanese authorities and the engagement is ongoing and constructive. 

    Let me go online.  We have a few online before I come back to the room.  And I have another question to read here, which is on Egypt.  The question on Egypt is how do you assess the Egyptian economy right now, taking into consideration the impact of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East region? 

    So let me say a few words on Egypt, but before I do so, are there any other questions on Egypt?  So on Egypt, first, I just want to start by saying that on March 10th, the IMF’s Executive Board concluded the 2025 Article IV consultation and completed the Fourth Review under the EFF arrangement.  This enabled the authorities to draw $1.2 billion.  The Executive Board at that time also approved the RSF arrangement, which paves the way for Egypt to access about $1.3 billion over the life of the RSF. 

    Now, with respect to the specific question, our projections for growth, and this is the question about the impact on the Egyptian economy of tensions, our projections for growth in inflation for the next fiscal year — Egypt uses fiscal year, so it’s a 2025-2026 fiscal year — indicate a growth rate of 4.1 percent.  And this is an increase from 3.6 percent in the previous fiscal year.  And on the inflation side, we expect inflation to continue a downward trajectory and reach 13.4 percent by the end of this period.  We’ll be looking to update these projections for Egypt as part of our update in April of the World Economic Outlook.  And of course, those projections will take into account any recent developments. 

    What I can say more broadly for Egypt is that the main economic impact on Egypt of the tensions in the region has been through disruptions in the Red Sea and the disruptions to revenues through the Suez Canal.  Trade disruptions in the Red Sea in Egypt since December of 2023 have reduced foreign exchange inflows from the Suez Canal by about $6 billion in 2024 alone for Egypt.  And the volume of transit trade is about one third of pre conflict levels.  And so this has of course, adverse spillovers to growth in Egypt and also to fiscal revenues in Egypt.  That is the main area that we’re focused on in terms of how Egypt is being affected by the tensions in the region.  And of course, we’ll continue to closely monitor that as part of our deep and constructive engagement with Egypt. 

    QUESTIONER: Yes, thank you, Julie.  Can you hear me all right? 

    MS. KOZACK: Yes, we can hear you.

    QUESTIONER: Just a quick follow up on Argentina.  You mentioned the amount of discussion will be sizable.  I appreciate we can’t discuss what a final figure might be at this point, but can you confirm that Argentina has requested a loan package of around $20 billion or at least discussed a similar figure as Minister Caputo said this morning. 

    MS. KOZACK: Look, I’m not — just as with the other questions in terms of the ongoing discussions, I’m not going to get into the details of those discussions. They are ongoing. And I can simply confirm that the size of the final package for Argentina will be determined by our Executive Board and that the discussions are for a sizable financing package. 

    QUESTIONER: I want to look at the Caribbean specifically on this one.  With the U.S. proposing to tariff Chinese vessels to the tune of $1.5 million docking to an extent in the U.S., what recommendations or how does the — what does the IMF foresee in terms of potential economic fallouts for Small Island States within the Caribbean region going forward?  And this is in keeping with the tone of questions in the room there.  Do you foresee any potential — or what recommendation would the IMF give to Small Island States, especially those in the Caribbean region, about potential inflation as you look towards the future and tariffs “here is the name of the game” from the United States?

    MS. KOZACK: I’d say like with all of the other impacts of recent developments, we will be discussing this in our World Economic Outlook. But also, I think importantly for the Caribbean, we will have a discussion around regional developments by our Western Hemisphere Department.  And that discussion will, of course, cover the specific impacts on the Caribbean. 

    What I can say today about the Caribbean is to just give a sense of where we stood in our latest forecast, which was in January of 2025.  At that time we expected that growth in the region would be normalized.  So, what we saw in the Caribbean was a kind of rapid recovery after the Pandemic.  And now we’re seeing a normalization phase, or at least that was our assessment in January.  And we expected real GDP growth to reach 2.4 percent in 2025, which would have been about the same as in 2024.  What we saw on inflation again in January was that it had moderated significantly in 2023 and 2024 and that inflation in the Caribbean had returned to pre-Pandemic levels.  So of course, we will then incorporate any of the recent developments in our revised forecast, which will be coming out in April, and we can have a — we’ll have a fuller picture at that time. 

    But just to say a few words on the policy advice, our policy advice for the Caribbean has been more broadly to continue to pursue sustainable fiscal policies to continue to rebuild policy buffers and to strengthen the resilience of domestic economies and institutions.  We also encouraged Caribbean economies to accelerate investment in infrastructure and to implement necessary reforms to boost growth.  And again, we will have a fuller update in January — I mean, sorry, in April. 

    I see some more questions coming online for me to read.  I have a question online on Kenya.  And the question says at the end of the Eighth Review, and I assume under the program, Ms. Gita Gopinath stated, Kenya’s economy remains resilient with growth above the regional average, inflation decelerating and external inflows supporting the shilling and a buildup of external buffers despite a difficult socioeconomic environment.  What has changed since then that has prevented completion of the Final Review under the program? 

    So, before I move to Kenya, are there other questions on Kenya?  QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie.  Yes, on Kenya, if there’s any details on, on why that last review was ditched as, as my colleague asked, and did they fail to meet any of their targets?  And can we expect any update on, on a request of a new program?  MS. KOZACK: Okay.  I don’t see anything else on Kenya.  So let me give this update on Kenya. So we did recently have an IMF staff team recently visited Kenya for a staff visit.  We did issue a statement on March 17th and in that statement, what was noted is that the Kenyan authorities and the IMF reached an understanding that the Ninth Review under the EFF and ECF programs would not proceed. 

    Where we — what I can say more generally is that the authorities, policy, agenda, and reform programs have been supported by the IMF and they have helped improve Kenya’s economic resilience.  As was stated in the first question, the external position has indeed strengthened over the past year and inflation has eased. 

    All of this said, fiscal challenges do remain amid continued revenue shortfalls and the materialization of additional spending pressures.  And what this is going to require is a reassessment of the medium-term fiscal consolidation strategy to ensure that fiscal sustainability can be preserved.  These challenges will require more time to resolve, and the IMF has therefore received a formal request for a new program from the authorities.  And we are going to — we are, our team is engaging on this request of the authorities, and they remain closely in contact with the authorities.  We’ll provide additional details as we have them.  I can just add that we do remain committed to supporting Kenya’s efforts to realize its full economic potential. 

    QUESTIONER: So I was wondering if you could provide an update on Nigeria, Senegal, and Zambia.  I know the Managing director met with the Finance Minister of Zambia yesterday.  So if you have any update that you could provide regarding the debt restructuring.  And on Senegal, there was a release that was issued yesterday by the IMF defining, confirming that there was a significant underreporting of the fiscal deficit.  How did the IMF miss that information and how do you plan to ensure that it doesn’t happen?  And are you looking to change your methodology? 

    MS. KOZACK: So, on Nigeria, what I can say is [that] the first Deputy Managing Director, Gita Gopinath, traveled to Abuja and Lagos on March 3rd and 4th. She met with Finance Minister Edun, Central Bank Governor Cardoso, as well as civil society groups and private sector leaders. And she also participated in an event with students at the University of Lagos.  Our staff are planning to travel to Nigeria next week in preparation for the 2025 Article IV Consultation.  The authorities’ policies to stabilize the economy and to promote growth are welcome, and they will, of course, need to be accompanied by targeted social transfers to support the most vulnerable populations. 

    We do recognize the extremely difficult situation that many Nigerians face.  And for that reason, I just want to emphasize that completing the rollout of cash transfers to vulnerable households is an important priority for Nigeria, as is improving revenue mobilization domestically. 

    And that is the latest that I have on Argentina and not will — not Argentina, I’m looking at Rafael — on Nigeria, and we will have, of course, more after the mission completes its work.

    MS. KOZACK: Now on Senegal, what I can say on Senegal is, you know, we are actively engaged with the Senegalese authorities and a staff team, which included experts from several different IMF departments, visited Senegal on March 18th through 26th. And they released the statement, of course, that you referred to at the end of that mission. The purpose of the mission was to advance efforts to resolve the recent misreporting case. 

    I think, as we have discussed here before, Senegal’s Court of Auditors released its final report on February 12.  The Court confirmed that the fiscal deficit and public debt were under-reported over the period 2019 to 2023.  And we’re also, our team is also working closely with the authorities to resolve those — that misreporting case and to look at what measures can be taken to ensure, of course, that it doesn’t happen going forward, what are the root causes, and what needs to be done to support Senegal as it seeks to move forward.

    What I can also add is that we collaborate.  The IMF collaborates closely with member countries in all of our engagements, but at the end of the day, it is the member country that is responsible for providing us with accurate and comprehensive data.  While we are partners in the process, it is really the primary responsibility of the country authorities to ensure that the credibility and the quality of the data is accurate.  And we do, of course, for countries that are finding shortcomings in data quality or data accuracy or who want to improve their data reporting, we do offer technical assistance through our experts to help support countries that are interested in improving their data provision. 

    QUESTIONER: Can I quickly ask, regarding that, about the technical support that you provide?  How much — how many African countries are taking advantage of? 

    MS. KOZACK: It is a good question. I do not have the numbers in front of me, but we can certainly come back to you bilaterally. Overall, the continent of, you know — well, Sub-Saharan Africa, the region of Sub-Saharan Africa, is a heavy user of technical assistance services.  How [many] of those are in the area of data and statistics, I do not know.  But we can certainly come back to you bilaterally with that information

    And then on Zambia, I don’t have an update here for you, but we can come back to you bilaterally on Zambia. 

    QUESTIONER: Okay.  Thank you very much.

    MS. KOZACK: Last question.

    QUESTIONER: Thank you, Julie.  And I am sorry for bothering you a third time in a row.  It is about the Black Sea Grain Initiative.  I presume that it is too early to assess, but from the IMF perspective, how can potential moratorium on strikes on the Black Sea between Russia and Ukraine contribute to global trade, food security, and overall, does the IMF monitor the current ongoing discussions on this topic?  MS. KOZACK: Okay, very good.  So, on this one, what I can say is, of course, we are closely monitoring the discussions around the Black Sea.  I do not have a full assessment, of course, now.  What I can say is that there is quite a bit of global trade that goes through the Black Sea.  I think the number is about 7 percent.  And also, we know that some of that global trade is concentrated in key food commodities like wheat.  And to the extent that there is a, let us say, improvement in the ability for transit through the Black Sea, particularly with respect to important global food commodities, that should help ease food shortages globally. 

    With that, I’m going to bring this Press Briefing to a close.  Thank you all for joining us today.  As a reminder, the briefing is embargoed until 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time in the United States.  A transcript will be made available later on IMF.org and as always, in the case of clarifications or additional queries, please do not hesitate to reach out to my colleagues at media@imf.org.

    This concludes our Press Briefing for today, and I wish everyone a wonderful day.  I look forward to seeing you next time and, of course, at the Spring Meetings.  Thank you. 

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Brian Walker

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: University Research – Land water loss the leading cause of sea level rise in 21st century – UoM

    Source: University of Melbourne (UoM)

    An international team of scientists led jointly by the University of Melbourne and Seoul National University has found global water storage of land has plummeted since the start of the 21st century, overtaking glacier melt as the leading cause of sea level rise and measurably shifting the Earth’s pole of rotation.

    Published today in Science, the research combined global soil moisture data estimated by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF) Reanalysis v5 (ERA5), global mean sea level measurements and observations of Earth’s pole movement to estimate changes in terrestrial (land) water storage (TWS) from 1979 to 2016.

    “The study raises critical questions about the main drivers of declining water storage on land and whether global lands will continue to become drier,” said University of Melbourne author Professor Dongryeol Ryu.

    “Water constantly cycles between land and oceans, but the current rate of water loss from land is outpacing its replenishment. This is potentially irreversible because it’s unlikely this trend will reverse if global temperatures and evaporative demand continue to rise at their current rates. Without substantial changes in climate patterns, the imbalance in the water cycle is likely to persist, leading to a net loss of water from land to oceans over time.”

    Between 2000 and 2002, soil moisture decreased by around 1614 gigatonnes (1 Gt: one cubic kilometre of water), nearly double Greenland’s ice loss of about 900 Gt in 2002–2006. From 2003 to 2016, soil moisture depletion continued, with an additional 1009 Gt lost.

    Soil moisture had not recovered as of 2021, with little likelihood of recovery under present climate conditions. The authors say this decline is corroborated by independent observations of global mean sea level rise (~4.4mm) and Earth’s polar shift (~45cm in 2003-2012).

    Water loss was most pronounced across East and Central Asia, Central Africa and North and South America. In Australia, the growing depletion has impacted parts of Western Australia and south-eastern Australia, including western Victoria, although the Northern Territory and Queensland saw a small replenishment of soil moisture.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: SRSG Kamal Kishore’s speech at the High-Level Policy Forum on Accelerated Financing for Disaster Risk Reduction to Build Resilience in Oslo, Norway

    Source: UNISDR Disaster Risk Reduction

    Your Excellency, Åsmund Aukrust, Minister of International Development,

    Excellencies and Colleagues,

    It is a great honour for the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction to be organizing this high-level forum with the Kingdom of Norway. I would like to start by expressing my deep appreciation to Norway for hosting this forum and for its leadership on the topic of finance – both for disaster risk reduction and for sustainable development, especially in the context of the ongoing negotiations ahead of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development. 

    I am also thankful to Norway for serving as co-chair of the Group of Friends for Disaster Risk Reduction, which is critical to supporting the work of UNDRR as we race towards the 2030 deadline of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.

    Indeed, as we look around the world, it is clear that we must accelerate the implementation of the Sendai Framework to protect people and sustainable development from the growing impacts of disasters.

    Countries, rich and poor, are facing disasters that are larger and more destructive. This is partially driven by an increase in extreme weather events, but it is also driven by risk-blind investments, which increase the exposure and vulnerability of people and assets. The end result is more expensive disasters, which are a threat to economic prosperity and sustainable development.

    Over the last five years, global economic losses from disasters have increased on average by 25%. This increase represents tens of billions of additional losses each year.

    We have seen this manifest on one end of the spectrum with the recent California wildfires, which were reportedly the most expensive disaster in the history of the United States. 

    On the other end of the spectrum, we have seen war-ravaged Syria suffer approximately $5 billion US dollars in damages as a result of the 2023 earthquakes, and the Libyan city of Derna largely swept into the Mediterranean as a result of severe floods. This is on top of the loss of life, which was in the thousands, and continues to be felt most acutely by the Least Developed Countries. 

    When we add on top of these direct costs, the cost of slow-onset events and the indirect impacts of disasters, such as productivity losses, compromised health, and disrupted education, the total cost of disasters is likely in excess of a trillion US dollars a year.

    Moreover, as disaster costs increase, insurance companies are pulling out of high-risk markets, even in developed economies. For instance, “nonrenewal notices” of home insurance in the United States surged by nearly 30% from 2018 to 2022 to more than 600,000 a year.  And in developing countries, much of the losses, are not even covered by insurance, driving more people into poverty. 

    Even humanitarian assistance, which is a measure of last resort for many affected countries, is becoming scarcer. In 2024, only 43% of the budgeted needs were funded.  This year, the gap will likely be higher.

    Therefore, to reduce the burden of disasters, avoid a spiral of decreasing insurability, and limit humanitarian needs, it is essential that we invest in disaster risk reduction. 

    This means increasing dedicated funding to disaster risk reduction, while also ensuring that all other development investments are risk-informed. 

    At this Forum, we will dive into this issue in detail. And to help set the stage, I would like to briefly review where these investments could come from, starting first with domestic resources. 

    Domestic public funds are the primary source for investments in DRR. Early warning systems, resilient hospitals, and other DRR investments tend to have a public good nature, meaning that they benefit society but are difficult for investors to capture direct financial returns. 

    Yet, our research shows that only a limited share of the public budget, less than 1%, is allocated to DRR and that current spending only meets in most countries 10 to 25% of the needs, leaving a significant gap. 

    Although resources are limited, countries have an opportunity to make public spending more efficient and impactful by further integrating disaster risk reduction in public finance. This requires a conscious effort to create a ring-fenced budget allocation for DRR to empower responsible agencies, while also mainstreaming DRR in sectoral plans. To that end, we recommend the use of appropriate accountability mechanisms, including budget tagging and tracking of DRR-related expenditures. 

    We also need to reinforce synergies across government, for instance between the Ministries of Environment and National Disaster Management Authorities, to break silos and optimize the use of climate and DRR-related financing. Similarly, we need to ensure that finance is available both at the national and sub-national levels, as many investments happen locally.

    That said, it is important to consider that many developing countries face unique challenges that constrain their ability to scale up investment in DRR – and that is high levels of debt. 

    Since 2010, debt in developing countries has grown twice as fast as in developed countries, and they face much higher borrowing costs. 

    At the same time, disasters fuel debt in affected countries. For example, a recent study from the Inter-American Development Bank shows that debt levels in the Caribbean are 18% higher three years after a severe storm than normally expected. 

    These outcomes can be mitigated by pre-arranging financing mechanisms ahead of disasters, such as contingency credit lines, disaster-related clauses in sovereign debt instruments, and risk-transfer instruments. These mechanisms allow for a quicker recovery, thus limiting the impact on growth and the economy. 

    The second primary source of finance is the private sector. 

    On average, the private sector is responsible for about 75% of a country’s investment in assets, such as factories and real estate. If those investments are risk-blind, they will lead to the creation of new disaster risks and exacerbate existing ones. We see this, for instance, through the expansion of urban development into hazard-prone areas or the construction of infrastructure that is not disaster-resilient. 

    This can be avoided through regulatory frameworks, risk information, and financial incentives to make private investment risk-informed and to create markets for resilience-building solutions. 

    We should also better leverage the financial sector, which has played a limited role thus far in DRR financing. For example, the rapid rise in the green bond markets has only had a limited impact on driving investments into adaptation and resilience, in part due to the lack of market standards and taxonomies. These market standards are necessary for the emergence of financial instruments, such as resilience bonds, and to guide investor decisions. 

    Similarly, the local banking sector can play a role in supporting small and medium businesses to access finance for investment in resilience-building, including through blended finance mechanisms. 

    In this regard, I am happy to report that UNDRR has been pioneering some work in this area, including the development of a “Resilience Taxonomy,” in partnership with the Climate Bond Initiative, and the launch of a guide for adaptation and resilience finance, which we developed with Standard Chartered Bank and KPMG.

    The third and final major source of finance is the international community, specifically through the provision of Official Development Assistance. This is an area that is currently under stress but remains critical for many developing countries, and its promotion is one of the seven targets of the Sendai Framework.

    Looking at the data, we see that, between 2019 and 2023, only 2% of ODA projects had DRR as an objective. And within the humanitarian sector, we find that the amount of funding for disaster prevention and preparedness has actually gone down over the years – from an already low level of 3.6% between 2015 and 2018, to 3.3% between 2019 and 2023. 

    These trends show an imbalance between the increase in disaster risks around the world and the limited international funding being allocated to Disaster Risk Reduction.

    Such funding is critical to protecting development gains and reducing humanitarian needs, and for some of the most vulnerable countries, they are unable to invest in DRR without international assistance.

    With that overview, I believe we at this Forum have a unique opportunity to address some of the biggest challenges around DRR financing. And to help guide our discussions, I would like to suggest that we aim to make progress on three main objectives:

    First, the development of a national-level Roadmap for DRR financing systems to help countries raise the funds they need. 

    Some of the questions we would need to answer are: what key elements should be included in such a roadmap and what has worked, or not worked, in countries? 

    Second, explore international actions that we can commit to together. 

    For example, what initiatives or partnerships can emerge from this Forum on DRR Financing? How can we better leverage existing international cooperation to strengthen DRR? And how can we ensure the integration of DRR in the global discourse on financing, in particular, in the upcoming 4th International Conference on Financing for Development? 

    And third, what more can be done to ensure that all investments are risk-informed and do not lead to disasters

    For public sector investments, how can we encourage the alignment of economic development plans with DRR strategies to avoid the creation of new risks? And what reforms or changes are needed to encourage risk-informed investing in the private sector?

    I think it is fair to say that this is a lot to cover over two days. That said, given the calibre of the participants, and the leadership of our host, I am confident that we can achieve concrete outcomes. 

    In closing, I want to again thank Norway for making this Forum possible at a critical time when financing is the single challenge that unites the disaster, climate, development, and humanitarian domains. The unique advantage of disaster risk reduction is that it can simultaneously strengthen all the other domains because of its emphasis on reducing vulnerabilities and building resilience.

    I am grateful for your participation in this Forum, and I look forward to our discussions.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Charlotte County

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

    FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Charlotte County

    TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to lessen damage from future disasters.This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.FEMA specialists will be available from March 27 through April 5 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ET, Monday – Friday and on Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET, at the following location:Charlotte County: Home Depot, 12621 McCall Road, Port Charlotte, FL 33981Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster through   construction and remodeling best practices.An insurance specialist will be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to provide updates on FEMA applications and answer questions.Stay in Touch with FEMAIt is important to let FEMA know about any changes to your contact information. You may update contact information or check on the status of your application by:Visiting DisasterAssistance.govCalling FEMA directly at 800-621-3362Using the FEMA app###FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disaster.Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA’s YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam.  For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.  
    lindsay.tozer
    Thu, 03/27/2025 – 15:38

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: 200,000 Truckloads of Debris Removed from a County in Georgia Recovering from Helene

    Source: United States of America – Federal Government Departments (video statements)

    With more than 1.1 million cubic yards of debris left in Bacon County, Georgia, after Hurricane Helene, the community is recognizing an important milestone in recovery as debris removal operations near the finish line. FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides funds and coordinates alongside our state and county partners to remove widespread debris after disasters.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1abqD2KNcmU

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the General Assembly on the International Day of Zero Waste [as delivered]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Mr. President, Madame First Lady, Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    The waste crisis is an issue that goes to the heart of how we produce, and how we consume.

    And one that requires action at every level – local, national, and global. 

    This year’s International Day focuses on fashion and textiles.

    And rightly so.

    Unless we accelerate action, dressing to kill could kill the planet.

    Textile production often uses thousands of chemicals – many of them harmful to people and the environment.

    It devours resources like land and water – putting pressure on ecosystems.

    And it belches out greenhouse gases – inflaming the climate crisis.  

    Clothes are being produced and discarded at a staggering rate – driven by business models that prioritize newness, speed, and disposability.  

    Every second, the equivalent of one garbage truck full of clothing is incinerated or sent to landfill.

    Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    Fashion is just the tip of a toxic iceberg.

    Waste is an issue in every sector. 

    Every year, humanity produces over two billion tonnes of garbage.

    If you pack all that into shipping containers stacked end to end, they would stretch to the moon and back.

    Here on Earth, toxin-filled waste is seeping into our soil, our water, and our air. And ultimately into us.

    As usual, the poorest pay the highest price.

    More than one billion people live in slums and informal urban settlements, where waste management is non-existent and disease runs rampant.

    The rich world is flooding the Global South with garbage, from obsolete computers to single-use plastic and more.

    Many nations do not have the infrastructure to process even a fraction of what is dumped on their shores.

    As a result, materials that could be recycled are burned or sent to landfill. 

    And waste pickers are exposed to toxic chemicals as they sift through potentially hazardous materials, including broken electronics, in appalling conditions.

    Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    We need a different approach: one that delivers on the commitment in the Sustainable Development Goals for sustainable production and consumption.

    And there are signs of hope.

    Change is possible. And it presents exciting opportunities.

    In fashion, for example, designers are experimenting with recycled materials.

    Consumers are increasingly demanding sustainability.

    In many countries, resale markets are booming.

    And important initiatives are bringing together large and small businesses, industry associations, civil society and many others to drive sustainability across the sector.

    They include the Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, and the Fashion Pact.

    We must celebrate the power of these innovations to transform the industry.

    But we need more.

    And we need change in every sector.

    I welcome the work of the Chair and the First Lady and members of the United Nations Advisory Board on Zero Waste to raise awareness, and help meet the SDGs.

    The fight against waste requires us all.

    Governments must act:

    Through policies, regulations and subsidies:

    That promote sustainability, and zero waste initiatives…

    That encourage businesses to adopt positive practices…

    That provide decent jobs…

    And that empower everyone – not just the wealthy – to afford products that last.

    The current negotiations for a legally binding treaty to end plastic pollution – due in August this year – are a key opportunity for governments to drive progress.

    I urge them to take it…

    And to translate any treaty into action to support consumers to make environmentally friendly choices, and into a clear roadmap across industries.

    Addressing plastic pollution must be at the core of corporate responsibility.

    There is no space for greenwashing.

    Businesses must increase circularity, waste reduction and resource efficiency across their supply chains.

    We need accountability for corporate sustainability commitments.

    We need transparency for customers. 

    And we need consumers to use their purchasing power to encourage change:

    Reducing excessive consumption, valuing products that last, and embracing exchanges and resales.

    And we need young people and civil society to keep using their voices and power to demand change through advocacy.

    Excellencies, Dear Friends,

    We must build on progress, to end the waste practices wasting our planet.

    On this International Day, let us commit to do our part to clean up our act, and build a healthier, more sustainable world for us all. 

    And I thank you.
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Croatia to get EIB guidance on promoting capital markets and business innovation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • EIB to support Croatia in deepening its capital market in alignment with the EU’s Capital Markets Union (CMU)
    • New advisory accord with Finance Ministry aims for “Fintech Hub”  
    • Separate deal with Croatian investment-promotion agency to aid business financing

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) will offer policy guidance to Croatia on becoming a regional hub for financial technologies and capital markets. Under a new advisory agreement with Croatia’s Ministry of Finance, the EIB will support plans to turn the country into a fintech leader. In a parallel move, the EIB plans to advise Croatian Agency for SMEs, Innovation and Investments HAMAG-BICRO on helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) as well as startups enhance their investment readiness and gain access to early-stage finance. The advisory support is funded by the InvestEU Advisory Hub programme.

    “With the rapid evolution of technology and the growing importance of deep capital markets, Croatia has a unique opportunity to position itself as a regional leader in the innovation ecosystem,” said EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska. “Through these two partnerships, we are committed to supporting the country’s economic growth and competitiveness.”

    The goal of the EIB accord with the Finance Ministry is to help establish a “Fintech Hub” to act as a catalyst for innovation in this field. It will serve startups as well as established businesses and ensure alignment with evolving European Union regulations and global market trends.

    As part of the pact, the EIB will map the current fintech system in Croatia, benchmark leading hubs in Europe and provide recommendations on legal and operational issues. This will help drive the adoption of advanced financial technologies in Croatia and strengthen its role on the European fintech stage.

    The EIB will also carry out a study on ways to deepen capital markets in Croatia, identifying opportunities to bolster the investment environment. The study, meant to support the country’s new “Strategy on Capital Market Development 2025-2030”, will benchmark Croatia against innovative small and established large capital markets in an effort to position Croatia as a regional hub for initial public offerings in central and eastern Europe, leading the way towards the CMU.

    “Through collaboration with the European Investment Bank, we will continue investing efforts in order to accelerate the development of the fintech industry and capital market. This will ultimately improve access to capital for fintech entrepreneurs, startups, and the wider business community,” said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Marko Primorac. “Today’s partnership marks a significant step forward in positioning Croatia as a regional hub for fintech and further strengthening our capital market. By fostering fintech development and expanding capital market opportunities, we enhance Croatia’s standing both domestically and internationally. I extend my gratitude to the European Investment Bank for their cooperation and am confident that this initiative will contribute to Croatia’s long-term economic growth,” the Deputy Prime Minister added.

    In its partnership with HAMAG-BICRO, the EIB will enhance the country’s innovation ecosystem through training programmes for SMEs and startups covering issues such as business strategy, financial planning and investor engagement. The goals include helping Croatian businesses tap EU funding, including the European Innovation Council Accelerator. Envisaged cross-border mentorship and corporate partnership programmes will facilitate knowledge-sharing to support start-ups in scaling their technologies and accessing broader markets.

    Vjeran Vrbanec, HAMAG-BICRO Management Board President said: ‘’The increasingly complex conditions of a demanding market require a very high level of readiness from our entrepreneurs – both in terms of project preparation and investment – which can be achieved much faster with quality support from those who understand economic and technological trends. At our agency, our priority is to continuously provide services that make the portfolios of our companies more innovative, competitive and sustainable. In this regard, this partnership with the EIB, in the form of an investment hub for entrepreneurs, will contribute significantly to improving the quality of their knowledge structure, which can then be used in the process of applying for European Union funding.’’

    Background information  

    EIB 

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, high-impact investments outside the European Union, and the capital markets union.  

    The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security.  

    All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment.  

    Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the Group supported a record of over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised €110 billion in growth capital for startups, scale-ups and European pioneers. Approximately half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    High-quality, up-to-date photos of our headquarters for media use are available here.

    InvestEU: The InvestEU programme provides the European Union with long-term funding by leveraging substantial private and public funds in support of a sustainable recovery. It also helps to crowd in private investment for the European Union’s strategic priorities such as the European Green Deal and the digital transition. InvestEU brings all EU financial instruments previously available for supporting investments within the European Union together under one roof, making funding for investment projects in Europe simpler, more efficient and more flexible. The programme consists of three components: the InvestEU Fund, the InvestEU Advisory Hub, and the InvestEU Portal. The InvestEU Fund is deployed through implementing partners that will invest in projects using the EU budget guarantee of €26.2 billion. The entire budget guarantee will back the investment projects of the implementing partners, increase their risk-bearing capacity and thus mobilise at least €372 billion in additional investment.

    Croatia to get EIB guidance on promoting capital markets and business innovation
    Croatia to get EIB guidance on promoting capital markets and business innovation
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Congo Energy & Investment Forum (CEIF) 2025: Collaboration Key to Achieving 500,000 BPD Target

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Collaboration was identified as being a key pillar for achieving the Republic of Congo’s oil production goals during a Congo Energy & Investment Forum 2025 panel discussion sponsored by Weatherford – an Associate Sponsor of CEIF 2025. Operators and service providers underscored the value of partnerships in maximizing output at mature fields as well as the need for aligned priorities, including exploration and supply chain development.

    Targeting 500,000 barrels per day (bpd) within the next three years, the Republic of Congo is seeking investment across the upstream sector, from greenfield to brownfield assets. In a keynote address ahead of the panel, Omar Yordi, EUA Product Line Director Production, Digital and Well Services, Weatherford, emphasized the value of mature field development in achieving production goals.

    “It is vital to address field challenges in mature assets, where we work together in collaboration with service providers, plan accordingly and maintain the outcome of the job. The most successful jobs we have undertaken in recent years have been through intrinsic collaboration,” he said.

    Companies active across the broader region have been highly successful in maximizing output at mature fields. According to Osayande Igiehon, CEO of Heirs Energies, the company “doubled its production in Nigeria after taking over an asset in 2021. We used a unique approach called brownfield excellence. Our goals were maximizing oil potential, optimizing facilities and sustainably maximizing production. Today, we have over 90 wells producing.”

    Through collaboration, companies active in Congo can unlock addition value at mature fields. Collaboration will not only enable operators to share risk and reduce working costs, but leverage the expertise of other players to drive projects forward. Antoine Berel, Managing Director Sub-Saharan Africa, Halliburton, said that, “The priority must be to make sure that the cost of operation remains low, to ensure that Congo remains competitive in international markets. Halliburton aims to collaborate to find solutions that maximize the value of producing assets.”

    Yachtze Luchin, President & CEO, Unite Oil & Gas – a Silver Sponsor of CEIF 2025 – added that, “Partnerships are important because no one person by themselves has the answer. When you bring a collective gathering of people together, you give yourself a better chance to be successful.”

    Achieving the target of 500,000 bpd will require a strategic approach, incorporating both investment in frontier exploration as well as field intervention and redevelopment. As one of sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest oil producers, the Republic of Congo has a diverse slate of oilfields, with opportunities in shallow water acreage, onshore blocks and deepwater basins offering enticing prospects for major operators.

    Tim O’Hanlon, Senior Adviser, Panoro Energy, said that “The country has everything: onshore, offshore, big assets, small assets, brownfields, gas and blocks yet to be developed. It has ambitious targets and there is a lot of talent in the oil industry, with cutting edge [solutions].”

    He added that Congo will not achieve its production goals with existing assets alone, but “should promote exploration in new fields. Congo has a lot of potential. What is important is to be flexible and have an attractive fiscal framework. Congo is a safe and pleasant place to work.”

    Echoing these remarks, Jean-Michel Jacoulot, CEO of Trident Energy, said that “If you want to achieve these objectives in three years, we need to focus on exploration prospects that are not far from infrastructure. Congo must promote attractive fields in order to attract investment. We are competing with other countries in the sub-region and Congo needs to promote visibility, transparency and policy.”

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Lamont and Serve Connecticut Announce Grants To Support Youth-Led Service Projects

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    (HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Office of Higher Education Commissioner Timothy D. Larson today announced the awarding of $38,787 in mini-grants through the Connecticut Commission on Community Service, also known as Serve Connecticut, to support five youth-led initiatives in Connecticut.

    The funding is made available by a grant from The Allstate Foundation in partnership with America’s Service Commissions. Serve Connecticut is one of ten state and territorial service commissions that received a 2024 Empowering Youth-Led Service Grant to increase youth-led service opportunities in the state.

    “The volume and quality of youth-led service project proposals received by Serve Connecticut for this opportunity is a testament to the motivation among youth in our state to have a voice and make an impact,” Governor Lamont said. “We are so proud of every applicant and urge them all to keep up the great service.”

    “Serve Connecticut congratulates the five youth-led service mini-grant recipient projects and is eager to see these projects come to life and create the impact these youth envision in their communities,” Commissioner Larson, who also serves as a Service Connecticut board member, said. “We are grateful to The Allstate Foundation for providing this resource to our state’s youth.”

    Awarded youth-led service projects engage youth between the ages of 5 and 25 in meaningful service to Connecticut communities, centering youth voice, decision-making, action and impact in their project design. Awarded projects include:

    • The Community Table/Mesa Comunitaria Foodshare, a youth-led project sponsored by CLiCK (Commercially Licensed Cooperative Kitchen, Inc.) in Willimantic that delivers healthy, culturally relevant food boxes to area households that lack access to resources.
    • Co-Curating for Younger Children and Youth with Limited Access to the Arts, a youth-led project sponsored by cARTie Corp. in Shelton that engages a youth advisory board in curating a mobile juried art exhibition of middle and high school art that is transported to young children in communities across the state who do not have access to art museum enrichment.
    • EmpowerHER Period Poverty Initiative for Girls, a youth-led project sponsored by 100GirlsLeading, Inc. in. Bridgeport that engages youth in providing access to menstrual products and related education to girls ages 10 to 18 in Bridgeport.
    • Danbury High School Peer Leadership, a youth-led project sponsored by Danbury High School in Danbury that engages youth in designing and implementing fundraising projects that engage the high school and surrounding communities in raising funds for youth-selected causes.
    • Teen-Driven Community Service, a youth-led project sponsored by New London Youth Affairs in New London that engages youth in youth-determined service projects while providing positive youth development opportunities to participating youth members.

    Serve Connecticut received more than 150 applications from eligible applicants including schools, out-of-school time programs (after school or summer school), municipalities, agencies, youth-serving organizations, and individual youth proposing a wide range of youth-led service projects. Mini-grant funding requests of up to $8,000 were considered for activities associated with developing and implementing service projects and removing barriers to youth participation.

    “The Allstate Foundation believes that empowering youth to lead service is key to supporting communities and creating lasting change,” Greg Weatherford II, director of The Allstate Foundation and Social Impact, said. “These grants catalyze youth service opportunities by increasing access, deepening quality, and putting dollars behind young people’s innovative and transformational ideas about how to strengthen their communities.”

    Questions about this grant opportunity can be directed to Kate Scheuritzel, Serve Connecticut’s director of programs, via email at Kate.Scheuritzel@ct.gov. Serve Connecticut is a program of the Connecticut Office of Higher Education that administers AmeriCorps grants on behalf of the state and promotes service and volunteerism.

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Protecting homes and businesses from drought and floods

    In recent years, drought and flooding have been felt across the province, and building the critical infrastructure needed to protect Albertans can be costly for many municipalities. That’s why Alberta’s government is investing more than $19 million in 10 different projects through the Drought and Flood Protection Program to protect homes, safeguard businesses and, ultimately, save lives.

    These 10 projects will help protect critical infrastructure from floods, while increasing water storage to reduce the impacts of drought and build other necessary projects across the province.

    “Albertans have seen first-hand the impacts that floods and drought can have on our communities and livelihoods. This funding is helping communities build the next generation of drought and flood mitigation projects. While we can’t change the weather, we can help protect families, businesses and communities for years to come.”

    Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

    This funding will help eight municipalities and two First Nations build projects designed to keep homes and businesses dry, ensure critical infrastructure remains operational during emergencies and maintain reliable access to water. This includes community upgrades such as:

    • Building a retaining wall to protect the Slave Lake Airport and Helitack Base during floods.
    • Constructing a berm to safeguard Siksika Nation’s newly constructed Washington Sewage Lagoon and other local infrastructure.
    • Building 300 metres of shoreline protection along the South Saskatchewan River to protect the Medicine Hat Wastewater Treatment Plant.
    • Stopping erosion along Carrot Creek to help protect infrastructure in St. Albert.
    • Creating a naturalized stormwater management pond in St. Paul to reduce drought risks and improve water quality.
    • Improving flood protections in the Calgary area by replacing the Landon Ditch with a system to manage stormwater and guard infrastructure.

    “By investing in preventative erosion measures now, we will be minimizing the impacts of large storm events for St. Albertans and our municipal neighbors in the future. It is through partnerships with the Government of Alberta such as these that we can efficiently build resilient communities across the province.”

    Cathy Heron, mayor, St. Albert

    “Lake Elizabeth and its surrounding natural space are a treasured part of our city. Rising water levels over the past decade have eroded the shoreline, flooded natural areas, and threatened both private property and city infrastructure. The Drought and Flood Protection grant is critical to stabilizing the water levels and restoring these valuable natural spaces, ensuring that Lake Elizabeth remains a community asset for generations to come.”

    Grant Creasey, mayor, City of Lacombe

    “This is good news for the county, as we work to manage surface storm water issues for the benefit of all residents.”

    Bart Guyon, reeve, Brazeau County

    “The investment confirmed by the Government of Alberta will help the City of Medicine Hat’s plans to reduce the risk of flood damage to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. Combining this funding, along with the city’s contributions, will aid in providing shoreline protection, flood risk management, environmental protection, operational safety and sustainability.”

    Pat Bohan, managing director of development and infrastructure, City of Medicine Hat

    Alberta’s government is investing $125 million over five years into the Drought and Flood Protection Program, which is already showing results. Last year, the government delivered millions to counties, towns, cities and Indigenous partners for infrastructure projects, which are now underway. In total, more than $50 million has now been invested in 28 projects through the program.

    The next round of funding applications will open in October, with another $25 million available to protect businesses, families and communities.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, environmental protection, lower taxes for families and a focus on the economy.

    Quick facts

    • Funding for all projects approved in this round will be paid out in 2025-26.
    • Of the 10 projects receiving funding, seven are focused on primarily responding to floods, one focused on responding to the impacts of drought and two are focused on mitigating impacts from both drought and floods.
    • Of the 18 projects receiving funding in round one, 10 were focused on responding to the impacts of drought.
    • In round one of funding, $5,727,119 was deferred to 2025-26, with $5 million going to the Fort Mckay Water Supply Infrastructure Rehabilitation and $727,119 going to the Glenmore Trail Stormwater Diversion Project.

    Related information

    • Drought and Flood Protection Program
    • Approved projects

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI: GeoRedox Announces New Stimulated Geologic Hydrogen Approach and Strategic Partnership with Sage Geosystems

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GeoRedox Corporation (GeoRedox) announced today it’s launching its Advanced Weathering Enhancement (AWE) technology to produce stimulated geologic hydrogen (SGH) at low-cost and at scale. Additionally, the company announced a new partnership with Sage Geosystems (Sage) to cooperate in the design, construction, and operation of an advanced field demonstration to produce SGH and to collaborate in future production projects. The partnership will include sharing of related technical expertise, data, and resources necessary for project planning and implementation.

    This effort builds on recent progress created by discoveries around the world of sizable deposits of geologic hydrogen that have accumulated in the earth’s crust through naturally occurring processes. Using advanced drilling and subsurface engineering techniques adapted from the oil and gas industry in combination with GeoRedox’s AWE technology, the collaboration with Sage seeks to accelerate those processes in much more widely distributed source rocks. The approach has the potential to enable the production of ultra-low-cost, carbon-free geologic hydrogen close to existing industrial hydrogen markets, and to provide hydrogen at large-scale carbon-free liquid fuel production in the future.

    According to ARPA-E, U.S. Department of Energy, while the supply of naturally accumulating hydrogen, in and of itself, can enhance the U.S. energy economy, reduced iron minerals within the Earth’s crust have the theoretical potential to produce even more hydrogen from reactions within the subsurface. Using stimulated mineralogical processes could yield larger quantities of hydrogen than what are produced naturally. Thus, engineering the production of subsurface hydrogen could yield a substantial source of clean energy.

    “This collaboration brings together unmatched breadth and depth of experience in geoscience and advanced subsurface engineering to make stimulated geologic hydrogen a reality,” said GeoRedox President Robert Stoner. “Our demonstration project will simultaneously validate our geochemical and thermodynamic models and at the same time show that we can deliver commercially compelling outcomes in real-world settings. We expect our hydrogen to compete unsubsidized in the 100-megaton existing global hydrogen market – and that’s just a beginning.”

    “Stimulated geologic hydrogen represents a new use case for the cutting-edge technologies we’ve developed at Sage,” said Cindy Taff, CEO of Sage. “Our work with GeoRedox positions Sage on the ground floor of a new global opportunity that we expect to grow alongside our Pressure Geothermal businesses.”

    GeoRedox’s partnership with Sage to develop stimulated geologic hydrogen signals a significant step forward in the use of subsurface knowledge and resources to create a secure new global energy economy.

    Construction of the field demonstration site is expected to begin in 2026.

    About GeoRedox Corporation
    GeoRedox Corporation is a Boston-based early-stage technology developer founded in 2024 by a group of scientists and engineers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) based in Boston, Massachusetts. It has developed proprietary technology for producing ultralow cost stimulated geologic hydrogen from a wide variety of rocks and formations. For more information, visit www.georedox.com.

    About Sage Geosystems
    Sage Geosystems is a leader in the next-generation geothermal industry, pioneering the use of Pressure Geothermal. Pressure Geothermal leverages both the heat and the pressure of the earth to enable three applications: energy storage, power generation and district heating. Sage is enabling geothermal to be deployable globally. For more information, visit www.sagegeosystems.com

    Contact: 
    Marjorie Bonga
    marjorie@teamsilverline.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council shortlisted for prominent national local government awards including Local Authority of the Year Lancaster City Council is proud to have been shortlisted in four different categories at this year’s MJ Awards, including the prestigious Local Authority of the Year category.

    Source: City of Lancaster

    Lancaster City Council is proud to have been shortlisted in four different categories at this year’s MJ Awards, including the prestigious Local Authority of the Year category.

    Lancaster City Council has been shortlisted for Local Authority of the Year at the MJ Awards

    The recognition follows the council’s positive Local Government Association Corporate Peer Challenge in 2024, which praised the ‘Let’s do it’ culture and clear vision for the district.

    The MJ awards are held annually and recognise success in local government and outstanding work and commitment to local communities.

    The categories the city council has been shortlisted for in are:

    • Local Authority of the Year

    This category highlights success not just in one local authority department or project but right across the organisation. Successes celebrated in the entry include delivery of new recycling initiatives, support for Council Housing tenants, digital transformation initiatives, and leading the fight to tackle climate change.

    • Leadership in Responding to the Climate Emergency

    This recognises the city council’s work in delivering the Climate Emergency Local Plan Review, which focused on how new developments can be made better for nature while also making sure that homes and residents are better protected from flooding, lower fuel bills, and better access to sustainable travel. 

    Described as being “at the forefront of integrating net zero into local planning policy” the review has received national attention and featured on Channel 4’s The Great Climate Fight with Grand Design’s presenter Kevin McCloud.

    • Rising Star

    Susanna Dart (Principal Climate Policy Officer) has been instrumental in shaping the council’s response to the climate crisis, contributing significantly to policy development and community engagement. She has been shortlisted in the Rising Star category for her pivotal role in influencing climate resilience across the district and advocating the co-benefits that can ensue from taking a proactive approach to mitigating and adapting to climate change.

    • Digital Transformation

    The entry for this category featured a number of components that the council has focused on over the last 12 months to improve its digital services. It includes the installation of new digital screens across the district to provide visitor information, introduction of a new online portal to manage relationships with customers, and development of the 3D Mill Race App in conjunction with Lancaster University, underpinned by a new Digital Strategy which was co-created with key partners.

    Mark Davies, chief executive of Lancaster City Council, said: “Lancaster City Council is committed to delivering high quality services to its communities and being at the forefront of taking action to tackle our changing climate. All this has been achieved during particularly difficult financial times and by the council making the most of its resources while gaining outside funding to supplement its own investment.

    “Being shortlisted for these prestigious awards is testament to the hard work, innovative thinking and ingenuity that takes place every single day.

    “It’s particularly pleasing to be shortlisted for Council of the Year as this is recognises the work that takes place right across the authority and is something in which every single Elected Member and member of staff can take pride. Congratulations to all the teams representing the council and good luck in the final judging.”

    Judging in each of the categories will take place this spring with the results being announced in June.

    Last updated: 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: ‘An absolute dud’: Peter Dutton’s energy plan a fail for family budgets, our kids’ future, and our environment 

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    MELBOURNE, 27 MARCH 2025—Responding to Peter Dutton’s gas policy, announced tonight in his Budget Reply speech, Joe Rafalowicz, Head of Climate and Energy, Greenpeace, said: 

    Peter Dutton’s energy policy is an absolute dud for everyone except his mates – the fossil fuel lobby. It contains everything that would benefit coal and gas corporations, and absolutely nothing that would help household budgets, or stop the destruction of our ecosystems and climate. 

    Fast-tracking gas approvals, opening up new gas fields in our oceans and fracking the land, diverting money meant for clean energy to dirty gas, and stopping the construction of essential infrastructure to make renewable energy more affordable for Australians: these are all cynical measures designed to hamper the growth of affordable and clean renewable energy, while gas corporations continue to rake in profits.

    Wind and solar are already the cheapest form of energy in Australia, while gas is expensive, tied to volatile global markets for price, and wrecks the climate and our ecosystems. To truly reduce energy prices for Australians, Mr Dutton should be helping families buy home solar systems with batteries, and expanding the share of renewable energy generation, backed by storage.

    The Coalition’s nuclear plans are also nothing more than a risky, ok bad-faith delay tactic to prop up coal, oil, and gas, while holding back the rollout of renewable energy. Only the fossil fuel industry benefits from nuclear, while the rest of us pay the price for worsening climate damage, which is costing Australian taxpayers billions of dollars a year. 

    If Peter Dutton is serious about lowering bills for Australians, and wants the approval of the majority of Australians who love nature and are concerned about the climate, this absolute dud of an energy policy will not cut it. We call on Mr. Dutton to produce a real and effective energy and climate plan, based on cheap, clean renewable power. 

    For interviews, contact Vai – 0452 290 092 / [email protected]

    MIL OSI NGO –