Category: Weather

MIL-OSI Economics: AIIB Commits USD100 Million for Climate Transition in Asia
Source: Asia Infrastructure Investment Bank

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has signed a USD100 million commitment toward climate transition investments in emerging Asia. Of the total commitment, USD75 million is committed to the Actis Asia Climate Transition Fund (the Fund), managed by Actis GP LLP, and up to USD25 million co-investment sleeve alongside the Fund.

This marks AIIB’s first climate transition-themed fund dedicated to emerging Asia and highlights the Bank’s commitment to sustainable development and climate change mitigation in the region.

“Our commitment to the Actis Asia Climate Transition Fund underscores AIIB’s dedication to financing sustainable infrastructure and fostering low-carbon solutions in Asia,” said Rajat Misra, AIIB Acting Vice President, Investment Clients, Region 1 & Financial Institutions and Funds, Global. “This partnership aligns with our climate strategy and sets a precedent for future investments aimed at achieving net-zero emissions while promoting gender equality in the energy sector.”

The Fund aims to invest in renewable energy infrastructure, energy solutions and sustainable transportation which lean toward emerging Asia.

Project Highlights:
- Strong Sustainability Credentials—The Actis Asia Climate Transition strategy was established to meet investor demand for an SFDR Article 9 investment strategy which is focused on net zero and decarbonization assets aimed at supporting climate solutions including energy efficiency, smart grids, district energy and sustainable transportation. AIIB will gain access to Actis’ proprietary sustainability toolkit for direct investments, including enhanced governance framework, processes and metrics that will persist beyond exit.
- Demonstration Effect on Gender Focus—The Project marks AIIB’s first equity position in an energy transition infrastructure-focused fund which is committed to addressing gender gaps in the energy sector, enabling learning opportunities for development of gender considerations in future investments.
- Strategic Partnership that Drives Environmental and Social Impact—As an emerging market-focused sustainable infrastructure investor, the Fund will be Actis’ first climate-transition strategy. The collaboration highlights AIIB’s proactive approach to forming strategic partnerships and demonstrates AIIB’s dedication to financing sustainable infrastructure and fostering low-carbon solutions in Asia.
About AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is Financing Infrastructure for Tomorrow in Asia and beyond—infrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in 2016 and have since grown to 110 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and AAA-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Collaborating with partners, AIIB meets clients’ needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.
MIL OSI Economics –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Nations: Press Release 30 September 2024 Major international drought conference seeks to increase resilience
Source: World Meteorological Organization

Experts, policymakers, and practitioners will gather at the headquarters of the World Meteorological Organization at the Drought Resilience +10 Conference – so called because it marks a decade since the High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy.

The conference provides an opportunity for global stakeholders to reflect on a decade of advancements in drought preparedness, response, and adaptation while exploring new ways to turn knowledge into practical solutions that can help countries become more drought-resilient.

“Droughts are an insidious and dangerous climate-related hazard, which undermines food human security and is a major cause of internal displacement in worst-hit countries. It can wreak a devastating impact on the environment and economies and reverse progress in sustainable development,” said WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo.

“We need sustainable solutions, based on scientific knowledge and tailored policies that promote integrated drought management practices and policies. We have the knowledge and the tools but we all too often lack the necessary political will and financial investment to build drought-resilient societies,” said Celeste Saulo.

The Conference will focus on the escalating drought-related risks posed by climate change and increasing structural vulnerabilities in many societies. It will examine how to accelerate the shift in approach from a reactive, crisis-driven one to a more proactive approach, which leverages climate services such as seasonal forecasts, and anticipatory action tools, including innovative financing mechanisms.

The conference will examine drought monitoring and forecasting advances and will discuss how to strengthen drought monitoring for early warnings for food security and health, and how to embed policies into the international Early Warnings for All initiative. There will be a heavy emphasis on case studies and community-led actions.

It will also look at scientific and policy-making developments, including progress in satellite technology and artificial intelligence tools, which bring new perspectives to forecasting, monitoring and impact assessment.

Drought is not a new phenomenon and has historically occurred as a consequence of natural climatic variability. However, climate change is intensifying the water cycle. This brings more intense rainfall and associated flooding, as well as more intense drought in many regions, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Changes in land use and land cover are compounding the challenge.

“Healthy economies depend on healthy lands. We must urgently recognize that our land and natural systems are allies in our responses to climate change and drought, and we must leverage them for integrated, proactive drought management. Drought Resilience +10 is a crucial opportunity to exchange knowledge and build momentum for UNCCD COP16, which will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from 2 to 13 December”, remarked the UNCCD Deputy Executive Secretary Andrea Meza.
Drought Resilience +10 Conference

State of Climate

Between 1970 and 2019 drought caused approximately 650,000 reported deaths. Poverty and poor land use can increase vulnerability to drought and intensify their impact, according to the WMO Atlas of Mortality and Economic Losses from Weather, Climate and Water Extremes.

In Africa, 1 839 disasters attributed to weather, climate and water extremes were reported between 1970 and 2021. They caused 733 585 reported deaths and US$ 43 billion in economic losses. Droughts accounted for 95% of reported deaths.

WMO State of the Climate reports report on the occurrence and impact of droughts.

For instance, a prolonged La Niña event led to five consecutive failed rainfall seasons in the Horn of Africa, culminating in a massive humanitarian, food security and displacement crisis in 2023 in Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia.

With the transition to El Niño in 2023-2024, Southern African nations became the focus of the drought crisis – especially countries like Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Malawi.

Enhanced drought resilience

Despite the challenges, progress has been made in integrated drought management.

The Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) is a joint initiative between WMO and the Global Water Partnership (GWP), which works with over 45 partners to support countries and states, by providing them with policy and management guidance for handing droughts.

There are a number of success stories. These examples underscore the importance of strong drought management policies and early warning systems. They highlight the need for governments to adopt forward-looking approaches that integrate climate data and resource management into their drought preparedness strategies.

Brazil’s Northeast region, which historically faces frequent and severe droughts, provides a prime example of the benefits of proactive drought management policies. Recent policy responses focused on developing a comprehensive drought management system that integrates early warning systems, sustainable water management practices, and integration of climate change scenarios into infrastructure planning. Coordination between federal, state, and local governments was also enhanced to facilitate timely and efficient responses.

Similarly, in the USA, a proactive approach helped mitigate the effects of a severe water shortage in the State of Washington in 2024. With water supplies falling below 75% of normal levels in April, the state issued an early emergency drought declaration, unlocking funding for drought relief measures. This early action allowed communities and public entities to access funding for drought relief in advance, giving them time to implement mitigation strategies such as securing alternative water supplies and preparing for reduced irrigation.

Drought Resilience +10 Conference

Conference themes

Discussions at DR+10 will focus on nine topics, each addressing key aspects of drought management and reflecting the central challenges and opportunities for building drought resilience globally.

It will include national and regional case studies
These include:
- Drought resilience and global mechanisms
- Drought risk governance: the regional, national and local challenges
- Drought monitoring, impact assessment and forecasting
- From policies to action
- Ecosystems
- Social inclusion and climate justice
- Drought finance
- Public-private civil society partnerships
- Health
There will be a high-level closing session: Turning Drought Resilience Challenges into Action.

The Conference’s final declaration will include recommendations for countries to accelerate drought resilience efforts over the next decade. It will focus on policy implementation, drought resilience in countries’ preparedness plans, and adaptation strategies. It will also seek to mobilize resources to support vulnerable countries facing drought-related challenges.

The outcomes of the Conference will inform the global drought community as well as the high-level discussions at the 16th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP-16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in Riyadh in December 2024.

Logos of the World Meteorological Organization, Drought Resilience High-Level Meeting on National Drought Policy, and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting international cooperation in atmospheric science and meteorology.

WMO monitors weather, climate, and water resources and provides support to its Members in forecasting and disaster mitigation. The organization is committed to advancing scientific knowledge and improving public safety and well-being through its work.

MIL OSI United Nations News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Submissions: Telecommunications – Industry growth and rising energy demand put pressure on tech sector sustainability efforts
Source: The International Telecommunication Union

Cutting value-chain emissions could be key to reducing carbon footprints to net zero, ITU-WBA report shows.

Geneva, 30 September 2024 – The carbon footprint of the digital technology sector is growing to keep pace with global demand for hardware, network services, data storage and emerging technologies, according to a report co-authored by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA).

Alongside commitments expressed across industry to embrace both digital growth and environmental sustainability, the report reveals an overall decline in progress towards climate goals. Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption in the global tech sector have increased, while transparency and accountability remain a challenge.

Greening Digital Companies 2024 offers insights and best practices to help tech companies worldwide accelerate their emissions reductions, achieve low-carbon operations, and improve climate reporting.

“An effective green transition needs digital companies to drive progress and lead by example,” said ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin. “This report is an important tool for understanding where to focus efforts to maximize digital technology’s immense potential to advance sustainability in the face of climate change for the digital future we want. The report’s findings formulate a clear call for action for leaders gathering at the Green Digital Action meeting at COP29’s landmark Digitalisation Day.”

Balancing benefits and costs

Digital technologies offer numerous socio-economic benefits and can accelerate progress on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Tech can enhance weather predictions and climate-change monitoring, optimize energy use, and help integrate low-emission technologies.

But to advance sustainable development, industry must monitor and address its own environmental challenges, including carbon emissions, energy and water consumption, e-waste, and raw-material depletion.

Greening Digital Companies 2024 evaluates the greenhouse gas emissions and energy use of 200 leading digital companies around the world.

Of the 200 companies covered in the report, 148 reported electricity consumption totaling 518 terawatt-hours (TWh) in 2022, about 1.9 per cent of the world total. The 10 companies with the highest consumption levels – all headquartered in East Asia or the United States – consumed 51 per cent of this total, 9 per cent higher than in 2021.

Assessing the corporate value chain

The report’s 2024 edition provides the first comprehensive overview of corporate value-chain emissions. Often referred to as “Scope 3,” these make up most of the emission footprints of digital companies.

Scope 3 emissions include everything from material suppliers and outsourced device production to the use of a company’s end-products by consumers. Such end-products range from cell phones and computers to search engines and AI chatbots.

On average, these emissions are six times greater than the combined Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions that a company produces itself or is responsible for indirectly, according to the report.

Many companies struggle to accurately calculate and attribute their Scope 3 emissions, with common challenges including lack of data from suppliers, double counting, and inconsistent application of emission-allocation principles.

“Digital companies need to do their part in the fight against climate change,” said Lourdes O. Montenegro, Director of Research and Digitisation at the World Benchmarking Alliance. “This report uniquely offers evidence-based insights on the sector’s state of play. We are bringing these data and insights to the attention of the international community to help ensure that the impact on people and planet is consequential to success in business.”

Managing emissions from emerging technologies

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies will further strain energy resources and keep adding to emissions, the report makes clear.

The report also notes the contributions that AI and other transformative technologies can make to support sustainable development.

To help digital companies meet sustainability goals, Greening Digital Companies 2024 underscores the role of governments in implementing monitoring frameworks and accelerating the availability of green energy.

“From the development point of view, it is increasingly important for industry players to more closely monitor their own greenhouse gas emissions and act to reduce emissions and energy use,” said Cosmas Zavazava, Director of the ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau.

“GHG impacts can be devastating and include extreme and changing weather patterns and rising sea levels. If left unchecked, climate change will undo part of the development progress of the past. Governments can support the tech industry’s efforts to balance innovation with sustainability, fostering a twin transition towards digital growth and environmental responsibility.”

Liberalizing energy markets, reducing red tape for permitting, modernizing power grids, and investing in energy storage are all ways that governments can support industry sustainability efforts. Renewable energy investment is also critical.

Research and analysis to support green digital action

Greening Digital Companies 2024 reflects ITU’s wider push for effective climate action across the global tech industry.

ITU, the UN Agency for Digital Technologies, urges the industry to take responsibility for its own emissions; helps develop and promote technical standards to cut emissions in line with global climate goals; and encourages industry partners worldwide to support ITU’s Green Digital Action, aiming to strengthen the contribution of digital technologies to climate and environmental action.

Notes:

Advance interviews under the embargo are available.

The full report is available for media preview at https://bit.ly/4gAdZYI

The report will be launched Monday 30 September during the ITU-WBA webinar: “Greening Digital Companies 2024: Monitoring emissions and climate commitments,” taking place in two sessions to accommodate different world regions:

Session One: 9:00 – 10:15 CEST / Session Two: 18:00 – 19:15 CEST

To register: http://www.itu.int/go/gdc-24

The upcoming UN Climate Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (COP29) will host the first Digitalisation Day at a COP, shining a spotlight on the growing opportunities and challenges posed by increasing digitalisation. This will include the inaugural high-level meeting on digitalisation at a COP.

Resources and background information:

Virtual launch event of the Greening Digital Companies 2024 report, 30 September 2024

Greening Digital Companies 2024: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments

Greening Digital Companies 2023: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments

Greening Digital Companies 2022: Monitoring Emissions and Climate Commitments.

International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

About ITU

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies (ICTs), driving innovation in ICTs together with 194 Member States and a membership of over 1,000 companies, universities, and international and regional organizations. Established in 1865, it is the intergovernmental body responsible for coordinating the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promoting international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, improving communication infrastructure in the developing world, and establishing the worldwide standards that foster seamless interconnection of a vast range of communications systems. From broadband networks to cutting-edge wireless technologies, aeronautical and maritime navigation, radio astronomy, oceanographic and satellite-based earth monitoring as well as converging fixed-mobile phone, Internet and broadcasting technologies, ITU is committed to connecting the world.

Learn more: http://www.itu.int

About WBA

The World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA) is a non-profit organization that assesses and ranks the performance of the world’s most influential companies on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Data in this report were collected as part of the WBA Digital Inclusion Benchmark, which assesses the world’s leading technology companies on their performance in enhancing access to digital technologies, improving digital skills, fostering trustworthy use, and innovating openly, inclusively and ethically. In addition, WBA produces the Climate and Energy Benchmark, which measures corporate progress against the Paris Agreement and covers 450 of the world’s most influential companies in high-emitting sectors such as the automotive, utilities, oil, gas and transport industries.

Learn more: https://www.worldbenchmarkingalliance.org/

Appendices

Greening Digital Companies 2024 report: a focus on Scope 3 emissions

The Greening Digital Companies 2024 report provides the first comprehensive overview of corporate supply chain, or Scope 3, emissions, which are roughly six times Scope 1 and 2 emissions combined.

Scope 3 emissions are indirect emissions from a company’s upstream and downstream activities, such as outsourced suppliers in information and communication technologies (ICTs) manufacturing and emissions from the use of products like computers and smartphones.

By definition, Scope 3 emissions are outside the company’s direct control. But firms can exert important influence through their choice of suppliers, on the one hand, and the energy efficiency of their products and services, on the other.

Scope 3 reporting, however, is beset by a lack of data from suppliers and transparency. A total of 75 of the 200 companies provide relevant data across all 15 categories, ranging from purchased goods/services, upstream transportation and distribution, waste generated in operations, to business travel, use of sold products, and downstream leased assets. But most fall short in their reporting.

“Despite an abundance of guidance, the majority of digital companies do not calculate a full Scope 3 emissions inventory,” said the report. “This makes it impossible to assess progress in reducing emissions across their value chain.

While 103 digital companies covered in this report have submitted an emissions reduction target to SBTi, only 73, just over one-third, have a Scope 3 target.

By the numbers:

ASSESSMENT: DISCLOSURE, TARGETS, PERFORMANCE

• The Greening Digital Companies report assesses companies on their data disclosure, targets and performance.

• Only three of 200 digital companies scored 90% or higher (Apple, Logitech, Telefonica).

• 26 companies scored 75% or higher (see figure below), up four from the assessment in the 2023 edition of the report.

• Only 70 companies had at least a “passing grade” of 50%, and 27 scored zero.

• The top 26 performers are all headquartered in Europe or the US

SCOPE 1 & 2: OPERATIONAL EMISSIONS

● 166 companies reported emissions totaling 293 million tCO2e in 2022, amounting to 0.8% of global emissions from energy use and 12% more than in 2021.

● Top 10 emitting companies – all in the US or East Asia – accounted for 55%of the total, with all but one reporting increased operational emissions in 2022.

● The Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) has not validated the emissions reduction target of any top ten emitters as aligned with the Paris Agreement 1.5°C target.

ELECTRICITY & RENEWABLE ENERGY

● 2022 electricity consumption for the 148 companies providing data topped 500 terawatt-hours (TWh), 1.9% of the global total.

● The top ten – all headquartered in East Asia and the US – consumed 51% of the total, 9% more than in 2021.

● The top four corporate purchasers of renewable energy globally in 2022 were digital companies: Amazon, Meta, Alphabet and Microsoft (see figure below).

● Sixteen companies reported sourcing 100% renewable electricity (see figure below). Four of which – Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft and Deutsche Telekom – highlight that despite purchasing renewable electricity, it is not always available where their data centres are located or the electricity grid was not always supplying them.

● Four top ten companies consuming electricity in 2022– Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft and Deutsche Telekom – purchased 100% renewable energy, but it has not always been available where needed.

● Samsung and TSMC have committed to 100% renewable electricity, but not before 2050 and 2040 respectively.

● None of the three Chinese telecom operators in the top ten electricity consumers have made commitments towards 100% renewable electricity.

TARGETS VALIDATED BY THE SCIENCE BASED TARGETS INITIATIVE (SBTi)

● 104 (out of 200) digital companies have submitted Scope 1 & 2 emissions reduction targets to the SBTi, of which 69 have been validated.

● Of the 69 validated targets: 45 companies are on track, 13 are not on track, and 11 have seen emissions rise.

● Validated targets account for 19% of the 200 companies’ total emissions (56 million tCO2e).

● 81% of the 294 million tCO2e of total operational emissions are not covered by an SBTi target.

SCOPE 3: CORPORATE VALUE CHAIN EMISSIONS

● Among companies that report all relevant Scope 3 emissions, Scope 1 accounts for 4%, Scope 2 for 15% and Scope 3 for 81%. Scope 3 emissions are on average 6 times greater than Scope 1 and 2 combined (see figure below).

● Only 75 of 200 companies provided a complete Scope 3 inventory despite it accounting for most digital company emissions.

AI & DATA CENTERS

• Generating responses to Chatbot queries (“inference”) accounts for up to 90% of total machine learning cloud computing costs according to research by Amazon Web Services.

• A ChatGPT inquiry needs almost ten times as much electricity to process as a standard web search.

• Data centers consumed about 460 TWh of electricity in 2022, a figure which is projected to increase 35% to 100% by 2026. At the upper end of this range, this demand is roughly equivalent to the electricity consumption in Japan.

• Large cloud providers are experiencing rapid growth in energy use and consequent emissions. Alphabet, Amazon and Microsoft operational GHG emissions are up 62% from 2020 reaching 47 million metric tons in 2023 (see figure below). Electricity use has grown even faster, up 78% over the same period and standing at just over 100 TWh in 2023, around what the entire country of the Philippines uses in a year. The trio have made huge investments to decarbonize their operations: they all procure 100% renewable electricity and they were three of the top four corporate purchasers of green energy in 2022.

• Given the uncertainty surrounding the climate impacts of AI, it will be important for energy usage and GHG emissions to be included as key metrics when evaluating AI models.

ADDITIONAL NUMBERS

● The number of global Internet users has doubled since 2010, and data traffic has expanded 25-fold

● E-waste increased 82% from 2010 to 2022, and on current trends will reach 82 million metric tonnes by 2030, equivalent to nearly 8 kg of e-waste per person every year according to the Global E-waste Monitor 2024.

The International Telecommunication Union: http://www.itu.int
World Benchmarking Alliance: worldbenchmarkingalliance.org
MIL OSI – Submitted News –
January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Singapore and Ghana Launch First Call for Project Applications under Implementation Agreement on Carbon Credits Cooperation

Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

Singapore, 30 September 2024 — Singapore and Ghana have set out the processes for authorising carbon credit projects under their Implementation Agreement on carbon credits cooperation, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Applications may be submitted through Singapore’s Carbon Markets Cooperation website, at http://www.carbonmarkets-cooperation.gov.sg.

2 The carbon credit projects authorised under the Implementation Agreement will channel financing towards emissions reduction or removal projects in Ghana. These projects can promote sustainable development and generate benefits for local communities, including job creation, clean water access, improvements to energy security, and reducing environmental pollution (See Annex A for potential project types).

3 Authorised projects can generate carbon credits aligned with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement. Under Singapore’s International Carbon Credit (ICC) Framework, these credits may be eligible for use by Singapore-based carbon tax-liable companies to offset up to 5% of their taxable emissions.

4 From 30 September 2024, interested parties may submit applications for their carbon credit projects in Ghana to be authorised. Applications submitted will be reviewed by Singapore and Ghana governments on a rolling basis as they are received.

Application and Authorisation Process

5 The application and authorisation process comprises four stages, each corresponding to a different stage of implementation for the carbon credit project (See Annex B). The first three stages require applicants to submit details on the design and implementation plan for the carbon credit project in the lead-up to project authorisation. The final stage is for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the carbon credits generated from the authorised project, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

6 Singapore and Ghana will assess applications against each country’s respective requirements. For Singapore, these projects must meet Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria for International Carbon Credits. The Eligibility Criteria, and the list of eligible carbon crediting programmes and methodologies under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement, are at Annex C, and on the Carbon Markets Cooperation website. The list will be reviewed regularly to maintain relevance and uphold environmental integrity.

Annex A

Potential Carbon Credit Project Types for Applications

Project Type	Description
Clean Water Supply	Rural communities are provided with water purification technologies (e.g. UV-based disinfection systems). This empowers communities with an alternate source of clean and safe drinking water without relying on the conventional method of using firewood to boil water. This reduces carbon emissions from burning firewood and associated deforestation activities, and carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. Local communities can also benefit from improved water safety and security.
Efficient and Clean Cookstoves	In rural areas where households use firewood for their cooking and heating needs, the switch to efficient and clean cookstoves (e.g. cookstoves that use renewable fuel like biogas or solar energy) enables households to meet their cooking and heating needs more efficiently and cleanly. This reduces the burning of firewood and resulting carbon emissions from deforestation. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. Co-benefits are also delivered to local communities, including cleaner air quality through the reduction of firewood burning.
Green Mobility	As Electric Vehicles (EVs) replace fossil fuel-powered vehicles for transportation needs, there are emissions reductions as EVs are more efficient and potentially powered by green energy. Carbon credits are issued based on the emissions reduced. There are also sustainable development benefits for local communities. Skilled jobs are created for the maintenance of EV infrastructure, and improves air quality from reduced reliance on fossil fuel-powered vehicles.

Annex B

Flowchart of Application and Authorisation Process

Joint Committee	The Joint Committee is a coordination body that oversees the administration of the Implementation Agreement. The Joint Committee under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement is co-chaired by the Director-General of Climate Change at the National Climate Change Secretariat of Singapore, and the Director of Environment, Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation of Ghana.
Stage A: Project Application	Applicants are to submit a concept note on the intended project, indicating the programme and methodology that the project will be developed under, and broadly how the project will be implemented to uphold environmental integrity (e.g. explanations on how the project will demonstrate additionality).
Stage B: Project Design	As the project concept is further developed, applicants are to submit a project design document (PDD) on the intended project. The PDD should contain the detailed implementation plan (e.g. how the baseline emissions will be determined, how the project will address permanence and leakage concerns).
Stage C: Project Authorisation	Under this stage, applicants are to submit a validation report from a third-party auditor determining that the project design meets all the rules and requirements of the intended methodology and carbon crediting programme. After receiving Letters of Authorisation from both Singapore and Ghana, the project should proceed to be registered under the intended carbon crediting programme, and proceed to implementation.
Stage D: Corresponding Adjustment Application	As the authorised project is implemented and the emission reductions and removals have been verified by a third-party auditor, the carbon crediting programme will issue carbon credits to the project. Applicants are to submit a Proof of Issuance from the carbon crediting programme accompanied with the verification report from the third-party auditor, to be considered for corresponding adjustments to be applied to the issued carbon credits, in accordance with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement.

Annex C

Singapore’s Eligibility Criteria and the Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

Eligibility Criteria

1 The Eligibility Criteria requires ICCs to represent emissions reductions or removals that occur within the timeframe specified under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, and meet seven principles to demonstrate environmental integrity (see Table C-1 below).

Table C-1: Eligibility Criteria for ICCs

Principle	Definition
To comply with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, the certified emissions reductions or removals must have occurred between 1 January 2021 and 31 December 2030.
Not double-counted	The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be counted more than once in contravention of the Paris Agreement.
Additional	The certified emissions reductions or removals must exceed any emissions reduction or removals required by any law or regulatory requirement of the host country, and that would otherwise have occurred in a conservative, business-as-usual scenario.
Real	The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been quantified based on a realistic, defensible, and conservative estimate of the amount of emissions that would have occurred in a business-as-usual scenario, assuming the project or programme that generated the certified emission reductions or removals had not been carried out.
Quantified and verified	The certified emissions reductions or removals must have been calculated in a manner that is conservative and transparent, and must have been measured and verified by an accredited and independent third-party verification entity before the ICC was issued.
Permanent	The certified emissions reductions or removals must not be reversible, or if there is a risk that the certified emissions reductions or removals may be reversible, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any material reversal of the certified emissions reductions or removals.
No net harm	The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not violate any applicable laws, regulatory requirements, or international obligations of the host country.
No leakage	The project or programme that generated the certified emissions reductions or removals must not result in a material increase in emissions elsewhere, or if there is a risk of a material increase in emissions elsewhere, there must be measures in place to monitor, mitigate and compensate any such material increase in emissions.

Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

2 The Eligibility List of carbon crediting programmes and methodologies in Table C-2 adhere to the Eligibility Criteria and meet the requirements of both Singapore and Ghana. The carbon crediting programmes and methodologies that are eligible may be different for each host country, as host countries also have their own criteria.

Table C-2: Eligibility List under the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

Carbon Crediting Programmes	Methodologies
Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG)	All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those under the “Land Use and Forestry & Agriculture” category of GS4GG
Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)	All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those that are under the “Sectoral Scope 14” category of VCS, with these allowable exceptions: · Scenario 2a and 3 of VCS Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework · VM0012 · VM0017 · VM0021 · VM0022 · VM0024 · VM0026 (and VMD0040) · VM0032 · VM0033 · VM0036 · VM0041 · VM0042 Where any VCS methodology is used, the project participant will be required to demonstrate the Sustainable Development contributions or co-benefits of the relevant mitigation activity by submitting to the Joint Committee its verification report under the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB Standards), the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) or another standard recognised by VCS for such purpose.

Carbon Crediting Programmes

Methodologies

Gold Standard for the Global Goals (GS4GG)

All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those under the “Land Use and Forestry & Agriculture” category of GS4GG

Verified Carbon Standard (VCS)

All active methodologies published before 31 March 2023, except those that are under the “Sectoral Scope 14” category of VCS, with these allowable exceptions:
·     Scenario 2a and 3 of VCS Jurisdictional and Nested REDD+ (JNR) framework
·     VM0012
·     VM0017
·     VM0021
·     VM0022
·     VM0024
·     VM0026 (and VMD0040)
·     VM0032
·     VM0033
·     VM0036
·     VM0041
·     VM0042

Where any VCS methodology is used, the project participant will be required to demonstrate the Sustainable Development contributions or co-benefits of the relevant mitigation activity by submitting to the Joint Committee its verification report under the Climate, Community and Biodiversity Standards (CCB Standards), the Sustainable Development Verified Impact Standard (SD VISta) or another standard recognised by VCS for such purpose.

Annex D

Information on the Singapore-Ghana Implementation Agreement

1 Singapore and Ghana signed an Implementation Agreement on carbon credits cooperation under Article 6 of the Paris Agreement on 27 May 2024. Since the signing, Singapore has been working with Ghana to operationalise the Implementation Agreement.

2 As an additional contribution to mitigation of global emissions, Singapore has committed to having 2% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement cancelled at first issuance. These carbon credits cannot be sold, traded, or counted towards any country’s emission targets, and will instead contribute towards a net reduction in global emissions.

3 Singapore has committed to channelling the value from 5% of the correspondingly adjusted carbon credits authorised under this Implementation Agreement towards adaptation measures such as heat resilience measures and coastal protection in Ghana.

4 This is the second Implementation Agreement for Singapore, after the first with Papua New Guinea which was signed in December 2023. Singapore signed MOUs / Letters of Intent on carbon credits collaboration with countries such as Bhutan, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Fiji, Indonesia, Kenya, Laos, Mongolia, Morocco, Peru, the Philippines, Vietnam, Rwanda, Senegal, and Sri Lanka, with the aim of inking similar Implementation Agreements.

5 Effective international cooperation, such as through carbon markets, is an important part of Singapore’s efforts to achieve net zero emissions by 2050, given Singapore’s national circumstances as an alternative-energy disadvantaged country with limited domestic mitigation potential.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Helene
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency 2

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Florida After Hurricane Helene
WASHINGTON — Florida homeowners and renters in 17 counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Dixie, Franklin, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties can apply.

If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage. Apply for either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800- 621-3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube.

FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds for serious needs.

What You’ll Need When You Apply
- A current phone number where you can be contacted.
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
- Your Social Security number.
- A general list of damage and losses.
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
mashana.davis
Sun, 09/29/2024 – 21:17

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Coastal odour improved

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Environment & Ecology Tse Chin-wan today visited the waterfront areas of To Kwa Wan, Sham Shui Po and Wan Chai to learn about the progress for improving the quality and odour of Victoria Harbour’s coastal waters.

While inspecting the Cheung Sha Wan waterfront, Mr Tse was briefed by Environmental Protection Department officers on the conditions of sewer misconnections and the progress of rectification works.

He also learnt about the collection of odour data in real time and the innovative technologies and equipment in identifying pollution sources, which are done through the odour-monitoring device installed at the waterfront.

The environment chief was pleased to learn that the overall pollution load in the priority districts of Tsuen Wan, Sham Shui Po and Kowloon City had been reduced by about 80%, exceeding the target set in the 2022 Policy Address of reducing the pollution load at identified outfalls emanating stench in specific districts by half before end-2024.

Mr Tse then inspected the bioremediation works carried out by the Civil Engineering & Development Department at To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter, which can speed up the removal of organic pollution in the sediment and facilitate the elimination of the sediment’s odour, thereby further ameliorating coastal odour problems.

Mr Tse concluded his inspection by going to the waterfront areas of Wan Chai to learn about the various water quality improvement measures in the area, where triathlon events for the 15th National Games will be hosted in 2025.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials
Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials

Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials
At the Direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator to Travel to Florida to Survey Impacts

WASHINGTON — Hurricane Helene is a massive, dangerous storm and FEMA is prepared for anticipated multi-state impacts. In advance of Hurricane Helene’s landfall in Florida, the Biden-Harris Administration approved pre-landfall emergency declarations for Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. These declarations enable FEMA to provide federal resources to the states for emergency protective measures like reimbursement for evacuations and sheltering and aid initial response and recovery efforts.

FEMA urges people in the path of Hurricane Helene to take immediate action to protect themselves as the storm approaches. Hurricane Helene is expected to continue strengthening and bring life-threating storm surge and hurricane conditions to Florida starting today. There is also the risk for dangerous flash and flooding in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

“The Biden-Harris Administration is ready for this event. We are prepared and postured for response,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “People in Hurricane Helene’s path need to take this seriously. Listen to your state and local elected officials. If they tell you to evacuate, evacuate. If they tell you to shelter in place, stay where you are. These decisions can save lives.”

FEMA, the entire federal family and partner organizations are actively coordinating response efforts across Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. There are over 1,100 personnel actively supporting from across the federal government, which include Urban Search and Rescue Teams, Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and power restoration teams from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. An additional 700 FEMA team members already deployed across the region from previous events. To help people who may need to evacuate, the American Red Cross is actively standing up shelters in the areas likely to feel the impacts from Helene.

Safety Tips During the Storm

Residents in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina can find a list of state, tribal and local resources such as evacuation, shelter and important storm updates on FEMA.gov.
- Pay attention to local officials. Weather conditions can change quickly. Make sure to heed their warnings and evacuate immediately if told to do so.
- NOW is the time to finish preparations. Today is the day to prepare for this storm. Take action immediately to protect yourself, your family, your pets and your home. Finish gathering any supplies like food, water, medication, flashlights and food for your pets now. If possible, include cash in your emergency kit, as ATMs may not work after the storm.
- If you did not evacuate, stay safe at home. Gather your supplies including flashlights, battery operated radio and food and water and keep them on a high shelf or upper level. Find a safe location to ride out the storm, such as a designated storm shelter or interior room for high winds.
- Be in the know about your evacuation route. Several counties in Florida issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. Visit Evacuation Orders | Florida Disaster to see the full list. Florida residents can call 800-729-3413 for shelter locations. People in Florida, Alabama and Georgia should be prepared to evacuate quickly if they are in the path of this storm and are told to do so.
- Have several ways to receive alerts. People in areas along Florida’s Panhandle, west coast and into Alabama and Georgia should follow the forecast carefully and instructions of state and local officials by monitoring local radio or television stations for updated emergency information. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up. You can also download the free FEMA App available in English and Spanish languages to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area.
- Your neighbors are your lifeline. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need to ride out the storm. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
- Power outage and generator safety. If you lose power, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. If using a generator, remember to always use them outdoors and keep it at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Additionally, make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture and put up hurricane shutters if you have them.
- Stay out of floodwater. Walking, swimming or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste and chemicals that can lead to illness.
- Turn Around. Don’t Drown™. Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle or fall if you are walking through it. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
- Keep important documents safe. Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies. Take photos or videos of your belongings and property on your phone or upload them to the internet. Move valuables like photo albums, heirlooms and other treasured items to higher levels.
mashana.davis
Thu, 09/26/2024 – 18:09

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: President Erdoğan’s Address to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

Source: Republic of Turkey

ADDRESS TO THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
by
THE PRESIDENT of the REPUBLIC of TÜRKİYE,
H.E. RECEP TAYYİP ERDOĞAN
(24 SEPTEMBER 2024, NEW YORK)

Mr. President,
Distinguished Heads of State and Government,
Mr. Secretary General,
Esteemed Delegates,
I greet you with my most heartfelt feelings and respect on behalf of myself, my country and my nation.
I am very pleased to have the opportunity to address the United Nations General Assembly once again today.
I wish the 79th General Assembly to be beneficial to our countries and to all humanity.
I would like to congratulate Mr. Dennis FRANCIS, who has completed his Presidency of the General Assembly, and I wish success to Mr. Philemon YANG, who assumed this duty.
I would like to express our pleasure in seeing the Representative of the friendly and brotherly Palestine in the place he deserves among the member states, after lengthy struggles.
I wish this historic step to be the last stage on the way to Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.
I also invite other states, that have not yet done so, to recognize the State of Palestine as soon as possible and take their place on the right side of history at this very critical period.
Distinguished Delegates…
We are living through and trying to manage the crises minute by minute that most of my friends here watch on TV screens.
Therefore, I am addressing you today as the leader of a country that is not far from the tensions, but right in their epicentre.
Even if some feel uncomfortable, even if some will once again criticize us, I wish to speak out certain truths openly today, in the name of humanity, from the common rostrum of humanity.
Let’s consider… the United Nations, under whose roof we are now, was established to maintain international peace and security after the Second World War, during which millions of people lost their lives.
With the establishment of the United Nations, expectations for global stability, peace and justice blossomed again, and hopes for peace revived.
However, we observe with regret that in recent years, the United Nations is struggling to fulfill its founding mission and is gradually turning into a dysfunctional, unwieldy and inert structure.
We need the values represented by the maxim “THE WORLD IS BIGGER THAN FIVE”, more and more nowadays.
We witness that international peace and security are too important to be left to the arbitrariness of the “privileged five”.
The most dramatic example of this is the massacre that has been going on in Gaza for 353 days.
More than 41 thousand Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing Israeli attacks since October 7.
41 thousand people, 41 thousand lives brutally taken away, most of whom are children and women.
Similarly, the whereabouts of more than 10 thousand Gazans, most of whom are children, is unknown.
In the same way, about 100 thousand people have been injured and become disabled.
172 journalists have been killed while trying to do their job under difficult conditions.
More than 500 paramedics working to save lives have been killed.
Humanitarian aid workers and more than 210 United Nations personnel, who rushed to the rescue of the people of Gaza struggling with hunger and thirst, have been killed.
They hit 820 mosques and 3 churches that should be protected even at war.
They hit tens of hospitals, hundreds of schools, and more than 130 ambulances carrying patients.
By tearing down the Charter of the United Nations at the United Nations rostrum, they shamelessly challenged the whole world, all the conscientious people right from here, from this rostrum.
Friends…
The leaked images from the prisons that Israel has turned into “concentration camps” indicate very clearly what kind of persecution we are facing.
As a result of the Israeli attacks, Gaza has become the largest cemetery for children and women in the world.
More than 17 thousand children have been the targets of Israeli bullets and bombs.
HİND RAJAB was only 6 years old.
Their vehicle was hit by Israeli forces while she was searching for a safe place with her relatives.
Her uncle, aunt-in-law, and cousins all died, only she survived.
For 12 days she waited desperately to be rescued.
She waited for a helping hand to reach out to her for 12 days, saying, “WILL YOU COME TO PICK ME UP? I AM SCARED!”
Despite the level of development which our world has reached, despite the technology at our disposal; despite our organisations with huge budgets employing thousands of personnel under their roofs, unfortunately, as humanity of 8 billion, we have not been able to save a 6-year-old girl, an injured sparrow fluttering in front of our eyes.
Hundreds of Gazan children have died so far because they were not able to find a bite of dry bread, a sip of water or a bowl of soup, and they are still dying.
Not only children are dying in Gaza; the United Nations system is also dying, the truth is dying, the values that the west claims to defend are dying, the hopes of humanity to live in a fairer world are dying one by one.
I am asking you frankly from here…
HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANISATIONS!
Are the ones in Gaza, the ones in the West Bank not human beings?
The children in Palestine, do they not have the right to study, live, and play in the streets?
INTERNATIONAL PRESS ORGANISATIONS!
The journalists that Israel massacred on live TV, whose offices were raided, are they not your colleagues?
THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL!
What are you waiting for to prevent the genocide in Gaza and to say “stop” to this cruelty, this barbarism?
What more are you waiting for to stop the massacre network that endangers also the lives of its own citizens along with the Palestinian people and drags the entire region into war for the sake of its political prospects?
AND THOSE WHO UNCONDITIONALLY SUPPORT ISRAEL!
For how long will you continue to bear the shame of looking on this massacre, of being accomplices in this atrocity?
Distinguished Friends…
While children are dying in Gaza, Ramallah, Lebanon, and babies are dying in incubators, unfortunately, the international community has also given a very bad account of itself.
What is happening in Palestine is an indicator of a huge moral breakdown.
I believe that all the peoples of the world, leaders, international organisations should reflect on this painful picture.
I also want to hereby express a truth loud and clear.
Ignoring basic human rights, the Israeli government, is practicing ethnic cleansing, an overt genocide against a nation, a people, and occupying their territory step by step.
Palestinians, whose freedom, independence and the most basic rights have been usurped, are very rightly exercising their “LEGITIMATE RIGHT OF RESISTANCE” against this occupation and these ethnic cleansing activities.
The rightful resistance of the Palestinian people against those who occupy their land is too noble, honourable, heroic to be portrayed as illegitimate.
From here, I wholeheartedly salute once again my Palestinian brothers who defend their country at the cost of their lives.
The only reason for Israel’s aggression against the Palestinian people is the unconditional support of a handful of countries to Israel.
The countries that have an influence over Israel are openly becoming accomplices of this massacre with the policy of “run with the hare, hunt with the hounds”.
Those who are supposedly working for a ceasefire in the limelight continue to send weapons and ammunition to Israel behind the stage, so that it can continue its massacres.
This is inconsistency and insincerity.
Please consider … there’s a document that has been going back and forth since May.
HAMAS has repeatedly declared its acceptance of the ceasefire proposal.
However, the Israeli government has very clearly indicated that it is the party that does not want peace by continuously hampering the process, constantly finding excuses, perfidiously killing the interlocutor it negotiated with at a time when the ceasefire was closest.
There should be no more credit given to Israel’s distraction and deception moves.
In an environment where United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 is not being implemented, coercive measures against Israel should be put on the agenda.
Israel’s attitude has once again shown that it is essential for the international community to develop a protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians.
Just as HITLER was stopped by the alliance of humanity 70 years ago, Netanyahu and his murder network must be stopped by the “alliance of humanity”.
We believe that the power of the General Assembly to make recommendations on the use of force, as it exists in the “Uniting for Peace Resolution dated 1950”, should definitely be considered in this process.
An immediate and permanent ceasefire should be achieved, a hostage-prisoner exchange should be carried out, and humanitarian aid should be delivered to Gaza in an unhindered and uninterrupted way.
We have to extend a helping hand to the people of Gaza trying to survive, especially before winter when conditions will deteriorate.
Please consider, 70 percent of the water resources and 75 percent of the ovens in Gaza have been destroyed until now.
95 percent of health centres have been partially or completely damaged.
150 thousand houses were completely destroyed, 200 thousand houses were partially destroyed, 80 thousand houses became uninhabitable.
Infectious diseases, especially polio and hepatitis, are gradually increasing.
The people of Gaza can only reach a quarter of the amount of aid they need.
As Türkiye, we have maintained and are continuing to maintain our humanitarian aid activities for our Palestinian brothers since the first day.
With the amount of aid exceeding 60 thousand tons, Türkiye is the country that sends the highest amount of aid to Gaza.
In the same way, by stopping commercial transactions with Israel, we have demonstrated our sensitivity on this issue.
We also stand with the people and government of Lebanon, where Israel has stepped up its attacks in recent days.
Now we can all see this truth:
Our conscience cannot be at peace until those who massacred 41 thousand people are held accountable for the crimes they committed, from the person who gives the order to the ones who pull the trigger, and drop the bomb.
The bill for the billions of dollars of damage at the destroyed, wiped out, demolished cities must and will definitely be compensated by the perpetrators.
We support the lawsuit filed by the Republic of South Africa at the International Court of Justice to ensure that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished.
We will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served in this case in which we have applied for intervention.
We will make every legal struggle to find justice for our daughter Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers during a peaceful protest in Nablus.
Although there is an urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the main issue is the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel.
Creation of an independent, sovereign and geographically contiguous Palestinian State on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital can no longer be delayed.
I would like it to be known that we are also closely following the increasing attacks against our first Qibla, Al-Masjid al-Aqsa and Al-Haram Al-Sharif.
While saying all this as Tayyip Erdoğan, I never speak with empty words from this rostrum.
Here, I am speaking with the courage that I get from my history and the conscientious and fair stance of my ancestors.
Because we are a nation that has always been on the side of the oppressed and stood against oppressor and tyranny throughout history.
We had welcomed the Jews who escaped from the inquisition 500 years ago and the Jews who escaped from Hitler’s concentration camps.
I tell it frankly; as a country and as a nation, we have no hostility towards the people of Israel.
We are against ANTI-SEMITISM in the same way that we are against the targeting of Muslims just because of their beliefs.
Our problem is with the policies of massacre of the Israeli government.
Our problem is again with the oppressor and tyranny, just as it was 5 centuries ago.
Everyone should know that we do not refrain from crying out the truth.
Even if some feel uncomfortable, we are not afraid to tell the truth.
Insha’Allah, we will continue to stand by the righteous until the end and speak of what we know as truth, even if it is harsh.
Hereby, I would also like to thank all the brave people who show solidarity with the Palestinian people without distinction of faith, country, language or religion, and raise their voice against the massacre in Gaza by filling the streets almost every week.
Distinguished Delegates…
Unfortunately, in the 14th year of the conflict, Syria is also still far from stability.
The economic and humanitarian situation in the country, which is in the grip of terrorist and separatist organizations remains dire.
We hope that the political process will be advanced and national reconciliation will be achieved on the basis of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
We are determined to maintain our position in favour of a realistic dialogue with sincerity.
While our neighbour Iraq continues its struggle against terrorism, it is taking decisive steps towards development, reconstruction and reintegration with the region.
The international community should support these efforts of Iraq.
It is important in this context to implement initiatives that will benefit the entire region, such as the Development Road Project.
The success of all these efforts depends on the elimination of the terrorist threat in Iraq, especially from the PKK.
We believe that taking steps towards reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with our other neighbour Iran will contribute to the establishment of the environment of trust and stability in the region.
As the third year of the war in Ukraine comes to an end, we are still far from reaching a just and lasting peace.
As the armament race accelerates, the field of diplomacy is gradually narrowing.
We will further increase our support to the efforts to end the war through diplomacy and dialogue, on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
In this process, we will continue to meticulously implement the Montreux Convention.
We support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and we hope that the work will be completed with good news as soon as possible.
We are also taking mutually positive steps on the Türkiye-Armenia track.
The developments that can be achieved in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process will also have a positive impact on the Türkiye-Armenia normalization process.
Esteemed Friends…
We play a constructive role for the prosperity and peace of the Balkans, of which we are an integral part, and act in close cooperation with all actors in the region.
As a member of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council, we emphasize the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, political unity and territorial integrity on every platform, and we continue to contribute to the EUFOR-ALTHEA Operation.
We successfully continue the KFOR command that we assumed last year and support the Belgrade-Prishtina Dialogue process.
We want to see the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean as a region of stability and prosperity where the legitimate interests of all parties concerned are respected.
The limitation of maritime jurisdiction areas in accordance with international law, freedom and safety of navigation, and the development of cooperation, especially on maritime trade issues, are to the common interest of the entire region.
Türkiye is ready for constructive cooperation on all issues, especially energy and environment.
We expect the same approach from our neighbours.
As the country with the longest coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, Türkiye’s key role is undeniable.
Türkiye has rights to the north and west of the Island of Cyprus in the declared continental shelf and Turkish Cypriots have rights all around the Island.
It has been 50 years since the Cyprus Peace Operation and 61 years since the Cyprus issue emerged as a result of the usurpation of the partnership state by Greek Cypriots.
From that day to this, peace and tranquillity have prevailed on the Island.
It has always been the Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye that have shown a sincere will to bring about a just, permanent and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue.
The federation model has now completely lost its validity.
There are two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.
The sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots, which are their inherent rights, should be reaffirmed, and the isolation should now come to an end.
Today, I once again call on the international community to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and establish with it diplomatic, political and economic relations.
We provide active support to the establishment of stability in Libya and the preservation of the unity and integrity of the country.
We call on all states to take a sincere stand by Libya during this sensitive period and to contribute to the establishment of trust between the parties.
We need to exert more efforts to end the conflicts in Sudan.
We all have a responsibility to deliver humanitarian aid to millions of Sudanese displaced due to conflicts.
Africa has a very huge potential with its young and dynamic population, rich natural resources and fertile extensive lands.
On the basis of the principles of equal partnership and mutual respect, we support the Continent’s peace, stability and development efforts with the African peoples.
We will continue to be in full solidarity with our African brothers and sisters.
We are deepening our engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN.
We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies.
We share a deep-rooted history with the Central Asian countries; we further strengthen our cooperation on bilateral and multilateral grounds.
Our Organisation of Turkic States is increasingly turning into a centre of attraction.
The Organisation is becoming an exemplary model of cooperation, also with the contributions of observer members Hungary and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
As the Turkic world, we will further strengthen our unity and solidarity.
Within the framework of respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we are in close dialogue with China to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Uighur Turks, with whom we have strong historical, cultural and human ties.
We are trying to advance the friendly ties we have established with all the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to a further stage.
Distinguished Delegates…
We are obliged to work together to eliminate global injustice.
The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ notion of “leave no one behind” is a guide for these efforts.
As one of the countries that provide the highest aid in proportion to its national income, Türkiye’s activities contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
We support the activities that will ensure fair, inclusive growth and development on all international platforms, especially within the G20.
We believe that all nations should benefit equally from the transformative power of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
The United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries that we host is a concrete manifestation of our efforts in this direction.
The “cyber terrorist attacks” perpetrated against Lebanon last week demonstrated how these technologies can at the same time turn into a fatal weapon.
We address climate change with a similar approach.
No country can cope with the emission reduction and adaptation process to climate change alone.
The most important issues for developing countries are financing, technology transfer and capacity building.
I believe that the COP29 Climate Summit to be held in Baku will contribute to the solution of these issues.
With the vision of a more sustainable and cleaner world, we have carried the Zero Waste Movement, which we launched under the auspices of my Spouse, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, to a global level with the resolution co-sponsored by 105 countries and adopted unanimously at the United Nations General Assembly.
Hereby, I invite all countries, international organisations and non-governmental organisations to become partners in our movement.
We see that Islamophobia, xenophobia and racism are enveloping the world like a poison ivy.
Hardly a day goes by that we do not witness attacks on mosques and our holy book, the Holy Quran.
In the middle of Europe, people’s houses are being set on fire; their lives are being targeted; their most fundamental rights are being usurped because of their ethnic and religious identities.
No one can ignore this growing danger any longer.
As stipulated in the resolution adopted on 15 March 2024, we expect the appointment of a “Special Envoy for Combating Islamophobia” at the United Nations as soon as possible.
Distinguished Friends…
Today I would like to draw your attention once again to a danger that I raised at this rostrum last year.
The attacks against the family institution, which is the basic pillar of society, are intensifying.
The disgrace staged at the opening of the 2024 Olympic Games has revealed the dimensions of the threat we face as humanity.
A sports event followed by innocent children and hundreds of millions of people of all ages and faiths has been used, in a very ugly manner, for degenderization propaganda.
Those wicked scenes have deeply wounded not only the Catholic world, the Christian world, but also Muslims and everyone who respects the sacred.
The issue of desexualisation is now turning into a global imposition rather than a “preference”, literally a war against the sacred and the creation.
Anyone who raises a voice against this destruction project and shows the slightest reaction is silenced and becomes the target of lynching campaigns.
Türkiye is determined to break this siege and resist this climate of fear at all cost.
For this purpose, we became a member of the United Nations Group of Friends of the Family.
Insha’Allah, we will not hold back from defending the family, the human being and the creation in solidarity with other member states.
I invite the countries that share the same concerns with us to support this struggle.
With these thoughts, I wish that the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly will be beneficial for all humanity.
I salute you all once again with affection and respect.
May you all remain in good health…

MIL OSI Europe News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy secures flood insurance, disaster aid wins for Louisianians

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)
MADISONVILLE, La. – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, helped secure an extension of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as part of the recent government funding package. Kennedy also helped secure language in the bill to help provide urgent disaster aid to Louisiana in the wake of Hurricane Francine.
“Our state is still picking up the pieces that Hurricane Francine left behind, and our communities need all the help they can get. I’m thankful we’ve delivered Louisianians additional disaster aid and protected their flood insurance so that the program doesn’t expire in the middle of hurricane season,” said Kennedy.
Kennedy helped prevent the NFIP from expiring on Sept. 30 by securing an extension of the program until Dec. 20, 2024.
Kennedy also helped secure disaster relief in the continuing resolution that will help Louisianians recover from Hurricane Francine by allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide aid for future storms.
These disaster funds can provide Louisiana with emergency shelter, food and medical assistance, as well as long-term recovery efforts such as rebuilding public infrastructure, housing assistance and supporting small businesses. The funds may also cover mitigation measures to reduce the risk of future disasters and help communities become more resilient.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation

State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation
jejohnson6
Thu, 09/26/2024 – 13:20

Due to expected impacts of Hurricane Helene, Gorges State Park and Mount Mitchell State Park will be closed Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26-27.

The Mountain Monarch Festival at Gorges, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28, has been cancelled.

The Blue Ridge Parkway expects to be closed for the next several days. Mount Mitchell State Park will reopen when the Parkway reopens.

The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation will continue to monitor the situation over the next few days. Closures may be extended or added in western North Carolina as the storm moves through the region. Visitors should check the park pages on ncparks.gov for the most up-to-date status of facilities and parks. Parks and facilities will reopen when staff can confirm that conditions are safe to do so.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.dncr.nc.gov.

Sep 26, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” said Juliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security, Immigration

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Sept. 26, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-011
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Center in Roane County will be closed Friday, Sept. 27, because of forecast inclement weather.

The center is located at:

Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center
Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot 206 E Main St. Spencer, WV 25276 Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed Sundays Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot

206 E Main St.

Spencer, WV 25276

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Pending any effects from the weather, the center is scheduled to reopen at 8 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 28.

Residents of all affected counties can continue to visit the disaster center in Boone County. The center is located at:

To locate center nearest you, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/drc. The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.

Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. They can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

issa.mansaray
Thu, 09/26/2024 – 17:01

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI USA: Jayapal, Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” said Juliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

Issues: Foreign Affairs & National Security, Immigration

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Latest Storm Ciaran and Storm Babet flood reports published 26 September 2024 Latest Storm Ciaran and Storm Babet flood reports published for Newport, East Cowes and Ryde

Source: Aisle of Wight

Official reports examining the severe flooding that affected Newport, East Cowes and Ryde last autumn are now available to read online.

Roads, homes and businesses were submerged on the Island as a result of Storm Babet and Storm Ciaran in October and November 2023.

At least 317 properties experienced flooding during unprecedented rainfall.

In response, the Isle of Wight Council commissioned a series of independent investigations to better understand the causes and any factors that may have influenced the severity of the flooding.

The in-depth studies, known as ‘Section 19 flood investigation reports’, involved collecting information from those directly affected by the flooding, as well as private bodies with flood management responsibilities.

Three reports have been published today (Wednesday) on the council’s website.

A further Section 19 report for Brading and an addendum for Binstead will be published next month with a report for Cowes to follow later in 2024.

The council will now consider all the recommendations, taking into account how many can be delivered and in what timescales given the resource and cost implications.

Some actions will require the council to work closely with key stakeholders and landowners, including Island Roads, the Environment Agency and Southern Water.

Developing a Community Flood Plan and investigating opportunities for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to manage storm water are among eight recommendations proposed for Newport.

At least 56 properties suffered internal flooding in the county town with Gunville being one of the worst affected areas.

In addition to improved flood maps and enhanced monitoring, the report recommends carrying out an investigation into the condition and capacity of the culvert under Arthur Moody Close and watercourse at Ash Lane.

Seven recommendations have been put forward for East Cowes including establishing a flood action group and developing a Community Flood Plan.

Other priorities include replacing or improving the existing tidal outfall and carrying out feasibility studies in providing extra surface water drainage capacity and increasing the capacity of the watercourse at Church Path.

Improved gully and highway drainage maintenance is also being recommended.

The latest Monktonmead report is an addendum to a previous Section 19 report published following flooding in 2021.

At least 107 properties were flooded during Storm Babet — estimated to have been a one in 144 and and one in 190 year event.

The report considers the incident response as well as the actions undertaken following the 2021 and 2023 floods and makes a number of recommendations around property flood resilience, surface water drainage, surface water management and community flood preparedness.

It also notes the detailed review currently being undertaken by the Environment Agency into the causes of the flooding last October and the operation of the Monktonmead Flood Alleviation Scheme.

Councillor Karen Lucioni, Cabinet member for community protection, said: “It was essential that we took action to properly look into the causes and impacts of the flooding that occurred last year. Many residents were adversely affected and much distress and damage to properties resulted.

“I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this work as their input has proved invaluable as we now look to take forward potential options to take preventative steps and to mitigate the risk of similar flooding occurring in the future.

“I would also like to thank residents for their patience while these reports have been prepared.”

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), co-founder of the Global Migration Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” saidJuliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

###

Congressman Greg Casar represents Texas’s 35th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which runs down I-35 from East Austin to Hays County to the West Side of San Antonio. A labor organizer and son of Mexican immigrants, Casar serves as the Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Agriculture.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: NEWS: Casar & Colleagues Introduce Migration Stability Resolution
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas)

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Greg Casar (TX-35), co-founder of the Global Migration Caucus, and U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52) introduced a new resolution calling for comprehensive legislation to address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while affirming the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the United States.

“Democrats can build an orderly, humane, and stable immigration system. We should create more legal pathways for migration and citizenship, while also changing the failed U.S. policies that cause displacement abroad and force people to flee their home countries,” said Congressman Greg Casar (D-Texas), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Let’s tackle the climate crisis. Let’s remove broad-based sanctions that increase poverty. Let’s prioritize policies to support stability abroad while creating a welcoming and predictable immigration process at home.”

“Too many people around the world face violence, poverty, and persecution and see the United States as a beacon of hope,” said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.). “We must make the immigration system more humane, more orderly, and more effective to welcome immigrants who come to this country rather than turn them away and to recognize not only the contributions they make to this country, but also the moral duty we have to protect people who come here fleeing horrible conditions. We can and must do better for immigrants.”

“Over the past decades, millions of people have been forced to migrate from their homes—and more people are displaced now than ever before. This is the result of converging crises, including climate change, political instability, and violence, some of which are impacted by U.S. policy,” said Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García (D-Ill.). “Yet, our immigration and asylum policies have become more restrictive and punitive, disregarding the role our government has played in creating this crisis. It’s time we acknowledge the ways in which U.S. policy has contributed to forced migration and displacement, and advance reforms that address the root causes of migration.”

“Republicans’ dangerous rhetoric about immigration endangers our immigrant communities and completely ignores the root causes of migration,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Migration is not just a border issue but a foreign policy issue. With migration on the rise worldwide and conflict, food insecurity, climate change, and political violence driving immigration to the U.S., it’s imperative that we reshape our immigration policy to address these global crises. This resolution calls upon Congress to do just that.”

“Climate instability, democratic backsliding, economic exclusion, sanctions, and human rights violations are just some of the conditions driving unprecedented levels of global displacement and migration,” said Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (D-Ill.), co-founder of the Congressional Caucus on Global Migration. “Stricter border enforcement, harsh asylum laws, and the vilification of immigrants have consistently failed us and our neighbors. Instead, we need to address how our own policies contribute to the crises and adopt a coordinated regional and global strategy to tackle the root causes of displacement.”

“It’s past time for comprehensive immigration reform. And a critical piece to this is addressing the factors that force families to flee their home countries in the first place,” said Rep. Juan Vargas (D-Calif.). “From combating climate change to humanitarian assistance, we need to implement productive policies that address the root causes of forced migration and displacement, while also working to restore faith in our legal immigration system and creating pathways to citizenship.”

Specifically, this resolution calls for comprehensive legislation that:
- addresses U.S. policies contributing to forced migration and displacement;
- ensures a humane and sustainable immigration system that appropriately addresses the root causes driving migration; and
- affirms the need for a true roadmap to citizenship for immigrants in the U.S.
Over the last few weeks, MAGA Republicans have fabricated xenophobic and racist stories about Haitian immigrant families, adding to a long track record of perpetuating false narratives, conspiracy theories, and racist tropes. This MAGA rhetoric has incited physical violence against many migrant families. Now more than ever, it is important to emphasize the value migrants bring to our communities and to call for policies that will make our immigration system more stable and humane.

The resolution is co-led by U.S. Representatives Greg Casar (TX-35), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), and Juan Vargas (CA-52), and co-sponsored by Nanette Barragán (CA-44), André Carson (IN-07), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Raúl Grijalva (AZ-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), Summer Lee (PA-12), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), and Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07).

It is endorsed by ActionAid USA, Ayudemos por una vida mas digna, Border Vigil of Eagle Pass, CASA, Center for Economic Policy and Research, Center for International Policy, Climate Refugees, Eagle Pass Border Coalition, Global Exchange, Justice is Global, Mira Feminisms and Democracies, Movimiento de los pueblos por la paz y la justicia y México negro ac, National Immigrant Justice Center, National Immigration Project, OXFAM America, Public Citizen, Sisters of Mercy of the Americas – Justice Team, Transnational Villages Network/Red de Pueblos, United We Dream, and Win Without War.

“This resolution is the step forward Congress desperately needs to reframe the issue of immigration towards more productive and effective solutions that will ensure migrants’ lives take precedence over politics,” saidJuliana Macedo do Nascimento, Deputy Director of Federal Advocacy at United We Dream. “The vast majority of Americans want to see a humane, efficient and fair policies that honor everyone’s freedoms to live safely in their homes without being forcibly displaced, whether here or abroad, and provides the opportunity to become citizens in the U.S. Congress has a clear roadmap in front of them with this resolution that proves that safety, humanity, fairness and justice in our foreign policy and immigration system are not contradictory values but instead deeply interconnected.”

“We need to dig in our heels and end the racism and xenophobia that’s rampant in our immigration and asylum debates in the U.S.,” said Eric Eikenberry, government relations director for Win Without War. “This new resolution lays the groundwork to do just that: welcome people who want to build their lives here, while ensuring that — from arms sales to climate policy and beyond — our government doesn’t create the conditions that force them from their homes and communities.”

“For too long, the U.S. approach to migration has focused on barricading our borders rather than addressing the realities compelling people to leave their homes — including crises exacerbated by U.S. policies. We applaud Congressman Casar and his colleagues for taking this critical step to review and move toward better U.S. policies to address the conditions giving rise to increased migration and displacement,” said Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy Vice President for Government Affairs.

“There’s been a lot of talk over the years about ‘root causes’ of migration, but this is the first legislation of its kind to home in on the elephant in the room: U.S. policy and its role in fueling the involuntary migration and displacement of millions of people in the region and the world,” said Alex Main, Director of International Policy at the Center for Economic and Policy Research. “This groundbreaking resolution helps us all better understand how vulnerable communities in the Global South have been devastated by U.S. broad-based sanctions, U.S.-backed trade agreements that put corporate greed over people, U.S. security assistance that props up repressive governments, and lax gun laws that provide criminals with easy access to U.S. weapons. Most importantly, this legislation proposes bold strategies to undo harmful policies and help truly mitigate ‘root causes’ including through far-reaching reforms to US sanctions policy and foreign assistance, the removal of harmful ISDS provisions from US-backed trade agreements, and the provision of robust support to developing countries fighting inequality and climate change, including through new issuances of debt-free IMF Special Drawing Rights. This resolution is long overdue, and we’re proud and delighted to be supporting it today.”

“Rather than ‘blaming the victims’—immigrants, it is important to acknowledge how failed U.S. foreign (or economic and military) policies have contributed to the spiraling poverty and violence from which people have been fleeing for their lives,” Jean Stokan, Justice Coordinator for Sisters of Mercy of the Americas. “Forced migration is often the result of U.S. foreign policies that prioritize the interests of foreign investors over those of impoverished populations. Thus, this resolution importantly names U.S. responsibility to address those root causes and the need for justice-based pathways to citizenship.”

“To design a just and humane policy response to immigration, we have to ask the question – why are people moving? As an international development organization, ActionAid USA strongly supports this resolution for acknowledging the root causes of migration, including and especially those for which the United States is directly responsible,” said Brandon Wu, Director of Policy and Campaigns for ActionAid USA. “A human rights-based approach to immigration policy should start with fixing harmful foreign policies, ongoing climate inaction, and unjust international economic systems that all contribute to force people to leave their homes.”

Background:

The resolution text can be found here.

###

Congressman Greg Casar represents Texas’s 35th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, which runs down I-35 from East Austin to Hays County to the West Side of San Antonio. A labor organizer and son of Mexican immigrants, Casar serves as the Whip of the Congressional Progressive Caucus for the 118th Congress. He also serves on the Committee on Oversight and Accountability and the Committee on Agriculture.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Statement by Minister Guilbeault following the Canada-Norway Ministerial Meeting on Plastic Pollution held on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, issued the following statement as Canada and Norway concluded the Ministerial Consultation on the Plastic Pollution Treaty, which took place on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly and ahead of the fifth and final negotiating session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) scheduled to take place in the Republic of Korea later this year.

September 26, 2024 – Gatineau, Quebec The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Canada’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, issued the following statement as Canada and Norway concluded the Ministerial Consultation on the Plastic Pollution Treaty, which took place on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly and ahead of the fifth and final negotiating session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) scheduled to take place in the Republic of Korea later this year.

“Plastics are being produced and consumed at an increasing rate, travelling across national borders, posing a risk to wildlife and damaging ecosystems. Millions of metric tonnes of plastic pollution enter our oceans each year, leaving a legacy of environmental impacts for future generations. Canada is taking ambitious action to reduce plastic pollution and help Canadians transition to a circular economy by following a comprehensive, evidence-based plan that covers the entire plastics lifecycle to keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment. But we can’t just act at home – plastic pollution is a global problem that is only getting worse. “Two years ago, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) unanimously adopted a historic and ambitious resolution to develop a new legally binding instrument on plastic pollution by the end of 2024. Since then, Canada has been actively engaged in the development of this global agreement, including through the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) in April 2024, which brought together over 3,000 participants from around the world.

“To build on this momentum, the governments of Canada and Norway co-hosted a ministerial consultation on the Plastic Pollution Treaty this week in New York, which helped identify areas of convergence ahead of INC-5. This is a critical element of the negotiations, and Canada calls on all Member States and Ministers to step up their efforts to chart a path toward an ambitious and effective global agreement to protect human health and the environment from plastic pollution. Canada looks forward to working with other Member States, Indigenous Peoples, intergovernmental partners and stakeholders to reach a final negotiated agreement to end plastic pollution at the final scheduled negotiation session (INC-5), to be held in the Republic of Korea this November.”

Oliver AndersonDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change819-230-1557Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca

Media RelationsEnvironment and Climate Change Canada819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)media@ec.gc.ca

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

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Cooper Warns of Danger as Catastrophic Hurricane Helene Impacts North Carolina
Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: Governor Cooper Warns of Danger as Catastrophic Hurricane Helene Impacts North Carolina

Governor Cooper Warns of Danger as Catastrophic Hurricane Helene Impacts North Carolina
mseets
Thu, 09/26/2024 – 13:09
Governor Roy Cooper and state leaders urged North Carolinians today to prepare for life-threatening flooding as well as high winds, tornadoes and heavy rain as Hurricane Helene passes through the state.

Helene is expected to bring tropical storm force winds, damaging debris flows and river flooding through Saturday. The heaviest rainfall is expected across the North Carolina mountains and foothills, with total rainfall amounts of 9-14 inches with some areas receiving up to 20 inches of rainfall. With the increased rainfall, widespread power outages and life-threatening landslides across the mountains are also increasing concerns. Helene has the potential to cause historical and catastrophic impacts to North Carolina.

Although primary storm impacts are forecast to be concentrated in the mountains and foothills as well as the Charlotte region, impacts will likely be felt across the state. Residents in central and eastern North Carolina should prepare for heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms and possible tornadoes.

“Helene is an unusually dangerous storm that threatens to bring heavy rain and potentially catastrophic flooding tonight and tomorrow for Central and particularly Western North Carolina,” said Governor Roy Cooper. “Make a plan now to stay with friends or family if you are in an area that could likely be flooded and stay informed to protect yourselves and your family.”

Governor Cooper declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday to mobilize critical state resources ahead of anticipated storm impacts. The President granted Governor Cooper’s request for a Federal Emergency Declaration, allowing more resources to the state. The State Emergency Response Team has deployed equipment, personnel and resources to support impacted communities, including North Carolina Swift Water Rescue Teams and Urban Search and Rescue Teams, as well as more than 200 North Carolina National Guardsmen.

North Carolina residents are advised to stay aware and keep a watch on local forecasts. State officials advise these tips to make sure your household is personally prepared:
- Have multiple ways to receive emergency information from reliable sources. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your mobile phone and monitor local new outlets and the National Weather Service.
- Check to see if your local emergency management office offers emergency alert services for its residents. You can visit your county government website for more information.
- Review your emergency plan. Know where to go if you need to evacuate, especially if you live in a flood-prone area.
- Gather emergency supplies or refresh your emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for info on how to build an emergency kit.
- Avoid unnecessary travel. If you do not need to drive, stay home. You can find information on road conditions and closings by visiting DriveNC.Gov.
- Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades. Turn around. Don’t drown.
For more information on how to ensure you are disaster ready, visit ReadyNC.gov, which features traffic, power outage and shelter information.

###
Sep 26, 2024

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Ron DeSantis Issues Updates on Preparedness Efforts Ahead of Hurricane Helene
Source: US State of Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by Major General John D. Haas, Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Executive Director, and Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared Purdue at the State Emergency Operations Center to provide updates ahead of landfall of Hurricane Helene. As of 8:00 am ET, Hurricane Helene’s maximum sustained winds have increased to 100 mph with higher gusts, making it a Category 2 hurricane. Additional strengthening is forecast, and Helene is expected to be a major hurricane when it reaches the Florida Big Bend coast tonight. Sixty-eight shelters are open throughout the state in preparation for severe impacts from Hurricane Helene, including 2 state-operated shelters in Tallahassee and DeFuniak Springs. These shelters have are housing over 2,500 residents from areas that may be severely affected by Hurricane Helene.

Governor DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-209 on September 24, updating EO 24-208 and declaring a state of emergency for 61 counties. This allows state officials to make critical resources available to communities ahead of any potential storm impacts.

Following Governor DeSantis’ request, FEMA approved the state’s pre-landfall disaster declaration request. This provides important federal resources and assistance, including personnel, equipment, and supplies, and makes available funding sources for emergency protective measures. The pre-landfall declaration request is for the 41 Florida counties included in Executive Order 24-208.

Voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders are in effect in multiple counties statewide. Residents need to evacuate if they are under a mandatory evacuation order. Counties under evacuation orders can be found at FloridaDisaster.org/EvacuationOrders.

Residents in the big bed area needing assistance finding or going to a shelter in the Big Bend region for Hurricane Helene can call (800) 729-3413. FDEM team members are conducting callbacks from messages received last night and accepting new calls today to facilitate shelter coordination. For additional resources and assistance, residents can call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at (800) 342-3557. Assistance is available in English, Spanish, and Haitian-Creole.

Watches and warnings in effect include:
Hurricane Warning: Western Alachua, coastal Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gadsden, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, coastal Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Levy, Liberty, Madison, western Marion, coastal Pasco, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties
Hurricane Watch: Inland Citrus, inland Hernando, coastal Hillsborough, coastal Manatee, inland Pasco, Pinellas, coastal Sarasota
Tropical Storm Warning: Central and eastern Alachua, Baker, Bay, Bradford, Brevard, Broward, Calhoun, Charlotte, inland Citrus, Clay, Collier, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, inland Hernando, Hillsborough, Holmes, Indian River, Jackson, Lake, Lee, Miami-Dade, Monroe (including Florida Keys and Dry Tortugas), Manatee, central and eastern Marion, Martin, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, inland Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Union, Volusia, Walton, Washington
Storm Surge Warning: Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Dixie, Franklin, Gulf, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Monroe, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties

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

State Preparedness Efforts
- The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 1 on Tuesday, September 24, and is leading coordination efforts for the State Emergency Response Team.
- The State Emergency Response Team is engaged in over 1,150 missions to assist counties in their preparation efforts. These missions accomplish vital tasks like staging response resources, protecting critical infrastructure facilities like hospitals and utility stations, and coordinating personnel statewide.
- There are 35,000 shelf-stable meals staged near the anticipated area of storm impact, ready to deploy for response.
- Seven Urban search and rescue task forces are ready to deploy.
- The Florida National Guard (FLNG) has mobilized nearly 3,500 Soldiers and Airmen in preparation for Hurricane Helene and can surge to 5,500 if needed.
- The FLNG is postured to provide logistics support, law enforcement support, route clearance, search and rescue, commodity distribution, flood mitigation, aviation and other support as needed by the state.
- The Florida State Guard (FSG) has prepared the following:
  - 250+ Soldiers ready to deploy.
  - 10 shallow water vessel boat teams
  - 7 flat-bottom-flood rescue skiffs
  - 2 amphibious rescue vehicles
  - 12 UTV’s
  - 15 Cut and toss crews
  - 7 search and rescue teams
  - 2 UH-60 Blackhawk for daytime aerial assessment and logistics missions
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has positioned all assets, including aircraft, and is ready to respond for reconnaissance and damage assessments, including all backup satellite and communications systems. Portable towers have been staged for emergency communications.
- FDLE is prestaging Telecommunication Emergency Response Taskforces for response to ensure continuity of service of the 911 system.
- FDLE’s Criminal Justice Information Services received permission from the FBI to allow law enforcement agencies to perform criminal history queries on behalf of emergency shelters to determine the suitability of shelter staff who may care for vulnerable populations (children, the elderly, the disabled).
- Nearly 2,000 Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) team members work directly on storm response.
- FDOT encourages drivers to download the FL511 app or visit FL511.com for road and bridge closures and potential detours that may be activated. Remember to always follow the direction of local law enforcement and emergency personnel.
- FDOT issued an Emergency Order on September 23, lifting weight restrictions and allowing emergency response vehicles, including utility vehicles staging for rapid response, to bypass weigh stations.
- FDOT Statewide Preparedness Efforts Include:
- Road Ranger Service has expanded service to 24 hours in the storm impact areas.
  - 890 team members conducting pre-storm preparations.
  - 613 team members working in the field conducting pre-storm preparations.
  - 245 pieces of heavy equipment are being used for pre-storm preparations.
  - 307 team members staged for cut and toss operations
  - 120 bridge inspectors staged for deployment
  - 43 team members staged for UAV (drone) deployment
  - 40 large pumps staged
  - 688 generators staged to assist with traffic signal power
  - 4 ITS trailers are staged.
- Seaports:
  - Port Key West, Panama City, Port St. Joe, Tampa Bay, SeaPort Manatee, Port St. Pete, Port of Fernandina, JAXPORT, and Port Canaveral are closed waterside.
- Airports: Some flight cancellations or delays are being reported. Check with airlines directly on specific flight updates. The following airports have suspended service:
  - Tallahassee International Airport (TLH)
  - Tampa International Airport (TPA)
  - St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE)
- Railroads:
  - Amtrak: Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes (New York to Miami) will terminate in Jacksonville
  - Amtrak: Silver Star and Silver Meteor routes (Miami to New York) will originate in Jacksonville
  - SunRail service has been suspended.
- Freight Rail:
  CSX will limit operations in the Tampa area.
- Florida Gulf & Atlantic will shut down operations except the Pensacola area.
- Apalachicola Northern and BayLine have suspended operations
  - First Coast Railroad will shut down operations on 9/27 .
- The following transit providers have made the following schedule modifications.
  - Service Suspended: Lakeland Area Mass Transit (Citrus Connection), Manatee County Area Transit, Sarasota County Area (Breeze) Transit, Lee County (LeeTran), Charlotte County, Jacksonville Transit Authority (JTA) Skyway and St. Johns River Ferry, St. Johns County (Sunshine Line), Bay County (Bayway), StarMetro, Big Bend Transit, Wakulla County Transit, Jackson County (JTrans), Calhoun County Transit, Liberty County Transit, Gulf County ARC suspending, LYNX, Marion County Transit, Key West Lower Key Shuttle, Hillsborough County (HART), Pasco County, Hernando County (The Bus)
- The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs (FDVA) The VISN 8 Clinical Contact Center is operational 24/7/365 for virtual care and tele-emergency care and support to Veterans enrolled for VA Health Care in Florida. 1-877-741-3400. Visit https://department.va.gov/integrated-service-networks/visn-08 for more information.
- Department of Management Services (DMS) is working to identify potential evacuation shelter sites for special needs and pet-friendly evacuees as far east as Lake City and west as Panama City.
Health and Human Services
- The Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is tracking APD-licensed group homes in impacted areas to ensure client safety from Hurricane Helene. APD will provide necessary guidance for re-entry when it is appropriate to do so.
- The Florida Department of Health’s (DOH) is deploying over 135 emergency response vehicles. Staging is currently in Leon, Liberty, Osceola, and Pinellas counties.
- DOH has prepared for Special Needs Shelter operations to begin in areas of Helene’s path. A press release has been sent statewide for additional information on special needs shelters. To find a shelter near you, please visit the county emergency management page here.
- DOH and the Agency for Health Care Administration have initiated Patient Movement Mission to support medical transport and evacuations of health care facilities.
- The State Surgeon General signed Emergency Order 24-002, which:
  - Waives competitive procurement requirements in order to procure commodities, goods, and services expeditiously in response to the emergency.
  - Permits emergency medical transportation services to operate across county lines.
  - Permits Paramedics, Emergency Medical Technicians, and Medical Directors, as defined by Chapter 401, Florida Statutes, licensed in other U.S. states, territories, or districts to practice in Florida in response to the emergency without penalty.
  - Authorizes a reporting extension for the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program.
  - Authorizes an extension of the upcoming licensure renewal deadlines for Nursing Home Administrators, Radiological Personnel, and Athletic Trainers until October 31, 2024.
- DOH and the Office of Insurance Regulation (OIR) sent information regarding early prescription refills permitted under Executive Order 24-209. This information was sent to the public, health insurers, managed care organizations, pharmacy benefit managers, pharmacy chains, and health care providers.
- The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) has activated reporting in the Health Facility Reporting System (HFRS) and has requested that all health care providers report their census, available beds, evacuation status, and generator status information. This information allows AHCA to assist health care providers in transferring patients if needed and ensure that health care providers in impacted areas have the necessary resources and adequate power.
- AHCA made 537 provider calls for Hurricane Helene preparation ahead of landfall.
- As of this morning, 80 health care facilities are reporting that they are evacuating.
  - 38 assisted living facilities
  - 26 nursing homes
  - 8 hospitals
  - 4 residential treatment facilities
  - 2 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents
  - 1 adult family care home, and 1 intermediate care facility for developmentally disabled
- 100% of operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site. The Generator Status Map for long-term care facilities is available here.
- The Agency has waived all prior authorization requirements for critical Medicaid services until further notice.
Infrastructure, Roads and State Closures
- The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) is assisting the Florida Department of Corrections with the evacuation of correctional facilities as needed.
- FHP is assisting with evacuations in Taylor County and in Cedar Key in Levy County.
- FHP is removing any abandoned or disabled vehicles left along roadways ahead of storm arrival.
- FHP cut teams, along with FDOT road clearing teams, are staged and ready for post-storm deployment to provide aid to areas impacted by the storm.
- Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) issued Emergency Order 24-05, in support of Executive Order 24-209 which: waives specific requirements for commercial motor vehicles providing emergency relief; and waives the replacement fees for driver’s license and identification credentials, vehicle registrations and titles, vessel registrations and titles and temporary parking permits for impacted individuals.
- The Department of Children and Families (DCF) is working with the Community-Based Care Lead Agencies to contact foster families and group home providers to ensure preparedness. Two group homes are evacuating to safer locations.
- DCF has contacted all licensed providers in potentially impacted areas to ensure disaster preparation plans are in place and unmet needs have been addressed.
- The Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) contacted all Area Agencies on Aging partners to receive updates on their ongoing preparation efforts and gather the status of any unmet needs.
- The Florida Department of Education (FDOE) has been in contact with all school districts and state colleges and is ready to provide assistance immediately following Hurricane Helene. Currently, 68 school districts have announced closures in addition to 25 State Colleges and 11 Universities. For more information on school closures, visit fldoe.org/storminfo.
- In preparation for Hurricane Helene. Currently, 65 school districts have announced closures in addition to 22 State Colleges and 9 Universities. For more information on school closures, visit fldoe.org/storminfo.
- Following the issuance of the Governor’s Executive Order 24-209, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) issued an Emergency Final Order allowing for the activation of disaster debris management sites to store and process storm-generated solid waste and debris.
- DEP published a storm updates webpage to keep state park visitors updated of closures: FloridaStateParks.org/StormUpdates. Visitors with existing camping and cabin reservations at closed parks have been notified of their reservation status.
Resources for Employees, Businesses and Consumers
- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) has partnered with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association to encourage more than 71,000 Florida-licensed lodging establishments to relax pet policies and waive pet fees for evacuees.
- Through this effort, anti-price gouging information and emergency accommodations resources have also been provided.
- DBPR has proactively communicated with more than 137,000 restaurant and lodging licensees to provide storm preparation and food safety resources.
- The Florida Disaster Contractors Network has been activated to connect homeowners with licensed contractors and suppliers to perform emergency repairs.
- DBPR encourages Florida’s licensed contractors who provide post-storm construction-related services to register with its Florida Disaster Contractors Network at DCNOnline.org.
- FloridaCommerce has activated the private sector hotline at (850) 815-4925, open daily 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Inquiries may also be emailed to ESF18@em.myflorida.com.
- Updates on business closures and business resources are consistently being updated at FloridaDisaster.biz/CurrentDisasterUpdates.
- VISIT FLORIDA has activated Emergency Accommodation Modules on Expedia and Priceline to provide real-time hotel availability and lodging resources for impacted Floridians and visitors.
- Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort has crafted special offers for Evacuees and First Responders in need of accommodations during an evacuation. Please see the linked pages below for more information.
- Rosen Hotels & Resorts activated its Florida Resident Distress Rates* for residents in the 61 counties where Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency. This initiative provides evacuees with a safe and affordable place to stay as they ride out the storm. For more information see https://www.rosenhotels.com/rosen-hotels-resorts-reduces-pricing-ahead-of-helene/
- Visit website for CareerSource openings: careersourceflorida.com
- Comcast has opened more than 52,000 public Xfinity WiFi hotspots in Florida. The free and public hotspots are open for all, including non-Xfinity customers. For more information click here.
- Walmart is working with state partners to provide needed supplies after the storm has passed.
- Publix has provided 10 pallets of water for shelters in Leon County.
- CVS Health is working with state partners to prepare pop-up pharmacies in impacted areas.
- UBER is providing Floridians free rides up to $35 each way to and from a state-approved shelter in counties under a state of emergency for Hurricane Helene. To get a ride users should use promo code HELENERELIEF.
- The Florida Department of State, Division of Elections, has contacted the United States Postal Service (USPS) about election information and vote-by-mail ballots. The Division of Elections recommended that Supervisors of Elections t contact their local district USPS to discuss a mitigation plan for ballot mailing, delivery, and return.
- The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) worked with Florida’s ports and fuel industry partners to ensure adequate fuel supplies are available, and with Florida’s agricultural partners so producers have adequate resources.
- The Florida Forest Service staged equipment, like high-water vehicles.
- The Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson, has approved an Emergency Order temporarily suspending the intrastate movement requirements for animal transportation. In addition, the following states have waived their interstate import requirements for Florida pets, horses, and livestock leaving the state: Alabama, Georgia (does not include livestock), Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
- The Department of Revenue (FDOR) has issued Emergency Order 24-001: Taxing Authority Millage and Budget Hearings to assist local taxing authorities with altering their plans for annual budget hearings because of Helene. Department of Revenue bulletin PTO 20-07 provides further instructions for local taxing authorities during declared emergencies.
- The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has high-water vehicles staged to deploy.
- 72 FWC officers and staff are ready to deploy with specialized equipment, such as:
  - 6 Airboats
  - 8 Shallow draft boats
  - ATVs/Side-by-sides
  - 71 high-water capable four-wheel drive vehicles
  - 3 aerial surveillance drones
  - 12 high-water capable swamp buggies/Fat Truck/UTVs
  - 4 SOG support trailers
  - 4 BERG self-sustainment container units
  - 4 Hygiene trailers
  - 2 Mobile command units
  - 6 Generators
  - 2 Water trailers
  - 1 Fuel trailer
- The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) has evacuated 22 satellite facilities and two major facilities and relocated 4,630 inmates into hardened housing units. Inmate visitation has been suspended statewide until Monday, September 30. The FDC will be posting updates publicly and in real-time at FDC.myflorida.com/weather-updates
- The Florida Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) have finalized storm preparations to ensure the safety and security of staff and youth in our care. This includes fueling all vehicles, moving vehicles in low-lying and flood-prone areas to higher ground, testing and ensuring adequate fuel supplies for generators in the event of loss of power, and ensuring food, medicine, and emergency supplies are stocked and ready.
For previous updates see below:
9/24/2024
9/25/2024

Follow FDEM on X, Instagram, and Facebook for updates and visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for information relating to Hurricane Helene.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Minister Guilbeault issues statement following Canada–Norway ministerial on plastic pollution on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly

Source: Government of Canada News

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, issued the following statement as Canada and Norway conclude the ministerial consultation on the plastic pollution treaty on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and ahead of the fifth and final negotiations of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in the Republic of Korea later this year.

September 26, 2024 – Gatineau, Quebec

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, issued the following statement as Canada and Norway conclude the ministerial consultation on the plastic pollution treaty on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and ahead of the fifth and final negotiations of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in the Republic of Korea later this year.

“Plastics are being produced and consumed at a growing rate, travelling beyond national borders, posing a risk to wildlife, and damaging ecosystems. Millions of metric tons of plastic pollution are entering our oceans every year, which is leaving a legacy of environmental impacts for future generations. Canada is taking ambitious action to reduce plastic pollution and help Canadians move toward a circular economy through an evidence-based and comprehensive plan. This plan addresses the entire lifecycle of plastics and keeps plastic in the economy and out of the environment. But we can’t just take action at home—plastic pollution is a global problem that is only getting worse.

“Two years ago, the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) unanimously adopted a historic and ambitious resolution to develop a new, legally binding instrument on plastic pollution by the end of 2024. Canada has been actively involved in the development of this global agreement since then, which included hosting the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-4) in April 2024 with over 3,000 participants from around the world.

“To continue the momentum, the Governments of Canada and Norway co-hosted a ministerial consultation on the plastic pollution treaty this week in New York that helped identify areas of convergence ahead of the fifth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5). It is a critical point in negotiations, and Canada invites all member states and ministers to intensify their efforts to chart the path toward an ambitious and effective global deal to protect human health and the environment from plastic pollution. Canada looks forward to working with other member states, Indigenous peoples, intergovernmental partners, and stakeholders to reach a final negotiated agreement to end plastic pollution at the last scheduled negotiation session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5) in the Republic of Korea this November.”

Oliver Anderson
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
819-962-0686
Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca

Media Relations
Environment and Climate Change Canada
819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll-free)
media@ec.gc.ca

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Alford, Hinson, Miller, Kiggans Lead Republican Conference in Letter Urging House Leadership to Prioritize Farm Bill This Year

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mark Alford (Missouri 4th District)

WASHINGTON – Today, as first reported by Punchbowl News, U.S. Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04), Ashley Hinson (IA-02), Mary Miller (IL-15), and Jen Kiggans (VA-02) led a majority of the House Republican Conference in a letter to House GOP Leadership reaffirming their commitment to advancing a farm bill that meets the needs of production agriculture and rural America.

The letter, which was signed by 140 Members, emphasized the importance of the Farm Bill and noted that farmers, ranchers, and producers are still living under outdated policies from the 2018 Farm Bill.

“Farmes and ranchers do not have the luxury of waiting until next Congress for the enactment of an effective farm bill,” said the Members. “Inflation has driven production costs to the highest on record. Meanwhile, commodity prices across the board have fallen precipitously, creating a severe margin squeeze on farm and ranch families … Farm debt, $540 billion, is the highest ever, both nominally and wen adjusted for inflation. These factors show no signs of abating for all major commodities.”

“The 118th Congress has an opportunity to do right by producers, other agriculture stakeholders, rural communities, and taxpayers by putting more ‘farm’ back in the farm bill and by making responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles, and the bipartisan H.R. 8467—The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which was advanced by the House Committee on Agriculture on May 24th of this year, does just that,” the Members continued.

The Members highlighted the negative impacts of failing to act, noting that the consequences will extend beyond the farm gate — hitting Main Street businesses, rural communities, and the national economy.

“We respectfully urge that the enactment of H.R. 8467, or similar legislation that makes meaningful investments in farmers, ranchers, and rural communities, is among the top priorities of the Republican Conference and that this be considered a ‘must-pass’ item in the lame duck session of the 118th Congress,” the Members concluded.

“We are honored to stand alongside 139 of my colleagues to lead a letter that shows House leadership that Republicans are committed to passing a Farm Bill that supports our nation’s constituents, farmers, ranchers, and rural communities,” said Congressman Alford. “We passed H.R. 8467 out of committee, and now it is time to give it to America. The stakes are high; production costs are up, and farm income is declining. We don’t need an extension, and we don’t need this next year–we need this Farm Bill now. Our producers are worthy of certainty and support for their tireless work in feeding, fueling, and clothing the world.”

“I led 139 of my colleagues – the majority of the House Republican Conference – in calling for Republican House leadership to bring the Farm Bill up for a vote as soon as possible. This bill passed out of committee with bipartisan support, and I believe would receive bipartisan support on the House Floor from Members who understand that food security is national security. Our farmers don’t have time for games, they need Congress to do the work and come through for them, just like they come through for us each day. I will continue advocating for passage of a strong Farm Bill to ensure Iowa farmers can continue feeding and fueling the world,” said Congresswoman Hinson.

Click here to read text of the letter.

In addition to Representatives Alford, Hinson, Miller, and Kiggans, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Robert Aderholt, Rick Allen, Mark Amodei, Kelly Armstrong, Jodey Arrington, Brian Babin, Don Bacon, James Baird, Troy Balderson, Jim Banks, Andy Barr, Cliff Bentz, Jack Bergman, Stephanie Bice, Gus Bilirakis, Dan Bishop, Lauren Boebert, Mike Bost, Larry Bucshon, Ken Calvert, Kat Cammack, Mike Carey, Jerry Carl, Earl Carter, John Carter, Lori Chavez-DeRemer, Juan Ciscomani, Ben Cline, Tom Cole, Mike Collins, James Comer, Eric Crawford, Dan Crenshaw, Monica De la Cruz, Scott DesJarlais, John Duarte, Neal Dunn, Chuck Edwards, Jake Ellzey, Ron Estes, Mike Ezell, Pat Fallon, Randy Feenstra, A. Ferguson, Brad Finstad, Michelle Fischbach, Scott Fitzgerald, Charles Fleischmann, Mike Flood, Vince Fong, Scott Franklin, Carlos Gimenez, Tony Gonzales, Lance Gooden, Kay Granger, Garret Graves, Sam Graves, Michael Guest, Clay Higgins, J. Hill, Erin Houchin, Bill Huizenga, Ronny Jackson, Dusty Johnson, David Joyce, John Joyce, Mike Kelly, Trent Kelly, Young Kim, David Kustoff, Darin LaHood, Nick LaLota, Doug LaMalfa, Doug Lamborn, Nicholas Langworthy, Robert Latta, Jake LaTurner, Michael Lawler, Julia Letlow, Greg Lopez, Barry Loudermilk, Frank Lucas, Blaine Luetkemeyer, Morgan Luttrell, Nicole Malliotakis, Tracey Mann, Michael McCaul, Richard McCormick, Daniel Meuser, Carol Miller, Max Miller, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Marcus Molinaro, John Moolenaar, Barry Moore, Nathaniel Moran, James Moylan, Gregory Murphy, Dan Newhouse, Zachary Nunn, Greg Pence, August Pfluger, Harold Rogers, Mike Rogers, John Rose, David Rouzer, Michael Rulli, John Rutherford, Maria Salazar, Austin Scott, Keith Self, Pete Sessions, Michael Simpson, Adrian Smith, Lloyd Smucker, Pete Stauber, Bryan Steil, Dale Strong, Claudia Tenney, Glenn Thompson, Michael Turner, David Valadao, Jefferson Van Drew, Derrick Van Orden, Ann Wagner, Tim Walberg, Michael Waltz, Randy Weber, Brad Wenstrup, Bruce Westerman, Brandon Williams, Joe Wilson, Robert Wittman, Steve Womack, Rudy Yakym, and Ryan Zinke.

Background:

The Farm Bill is omnibus legislation that establishes policies affecting all sectors of the agriculture industry for a five-year period. The most recent legislation, which was passed in 2018 and extended in 2023, expires this year.

On May 24, 2024, the House Agriculture Committee passed the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 to reauthorize the Farm Bill. The legislation supports producers and puts more “farm” back in the farm bill and makes responsible reforms and investments across all 12 titles.

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: Canada-France Declaration on a Strengthened Partnership in Defence and Security

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Meeting in Ottawa on September 26, 2024, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, call for working together to foster the development of a strengthened partnership in defence and security.

September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

Meeting in Ottawa on September 26, 2024, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, call for working together to foster the development of a strengthened partnership in defence and security.

Canada and France have a strong defence relationship, based on shared history and interests, a common language and universal values.

During the 20th century, Canada and France have forged a close defence relationship. During both world wars, Canadian and French soldiers fought side by side. This year, our two countries celebrated the eightieth anniversary of the Normandy landings. This defence relationship was solidified in 1949 with the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which our two countries are founding members, and with our joint participation in several peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the United Nations, in operations under NATO command, and as part of the international coalition against Daesh.

We share common security interests in a context of serious international tensions and, more broadly, the assertion of power logics and fait accompli. The year 2024 is thus characterized by an increase in meetings between our respective authorities, both at the political and military levels, with a shared desire to boost our exchanges in the field of defense and security, in order to establish a more ambitious strategic partnership. We are convinced that strengthened cooperation between our two countries will make it possible to better contribute to defending the international order based on the rules of respect for the sovereignty of States and our democratic principles. Together, we are determined to do our part to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter, to contribute to the management of international crises and conflicts, including in the cyber domain, and to ensure the security and collective defense of NATO members.

We will therefore deepen our defence and security cooperation with a view to supporting Ukraine, contributing to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening our collaboration in crisis management and in the modernisation of our armed forces and combating foreign interference and the manipulation of information.

Support Ukraine

Canada and France will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to defeat Russia’s war of aggression in flagrant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter. Our support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. In line with the G7 Joint Statement of Support for Ukraine of July 2023, Canada and France have respectively signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine committing them, over the long term, to strengthening Ukraine’s capacity to defend itself, developing the country’s resilience and deterring Russia from any further aggression.

We will strengthen our cooperation in the field of military material support to Ukraine and in the field of training, within the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG – also called the “Ramstein format”).

Canada and France have already trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation UNIFIER for Canada and the EU Military Assistance Mission in Support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) for France. Our armed forces have continued cooperation on the training of Ukrainian fighter pilots. Our armed forces will continue to deepen their strategic cooperation in the field of cyber defence in support of Ukraine. We are determined to work with Ukraine and our partners to enable Ukraine to defend its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression, both in traditional domains and in cyberspace, including by supporting the strengthening of Ukraine’s civilian cybersecurity capacities through the Tallinn Mechanism. More broadly, we will continue our discussions on the topics of common interest discussed at the Paris conference on February 26, 2024.

Canada and France recognize that the deportation of Ukrainian children is a major issue and will continue their efforts, within the framework of the international coalition, for the return of Ukrainian children deported to Russia.

Contributing to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

Canada and France are two Pacific countries that wish to actively contribute to regional stability and security. We aim to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, free from excessive dependencies and any form of coercion, and based on respect for international law, sovereignty and multilateralism.

We reaffirm our shared commitment to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through the implementation of United Nations resolutions and the enforcement of sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council. We remain fully mobilized with our partners to deter any attempt to circumvent these sanctions through maritime and air-sea surveillance.

We deplore the escalating tensions in the South China Sea. We firmly oppose coercive or destabilizing activities, which lead to increasingly violent and recurring incidents, and call for enhanced dialogue between the different parties. We also emphasize the importance of the ability of all States to exercise their rights and freedoms, including freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Our two countries will strengthen their cooperation in strategic and military analysis in the area, study the deployment of future joint patrol missions and increase their participation in multilateral exercises. This cooperation will improve interoperability between the armed forces of our two countries. With this in mind, we will work on the possibility of integrating Canadian support for the deployment of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.

Canada and France will deepen cooperation to combat illegal fishing and conduct maritime surveillance with Pacific Island countries to strengthen their sovereignty. We will work toward joint deployments in the area. We will also strengthen regional security by participating in training for Pacific Island partner countries.

Strengthening our collaboration in international crisis management and engaging together

Canada and France recognize that climate change is not only an environmental threat, but also one of the greatest security challenges of our time. We strongly support NATO’s Action Plan on Climate Change and Security, including as co-sponsors, with 10 other Allies, of the NATO Centre of Excellence for Climate Change and Security in Montreal.

We will share our crisis management situation assessments, as we did recently during the crisis in Haiti and in anticipation during targeted situation assessment exchanges in areas of common interest, such as the Middle East. We will identify new opportunities to deploy together. We will strengthen the NATO partnership by sharing experience between framework nations for the Canadian deployments in Latvia and the French deployments in Romania. France is ready to cooperate with Canada to facilitate logistical support to Canadian forces positioned in Latvia.

In the Canadian Arctic, Canada and France are collaborating on Operation NANOOK, the Canadian Armed Forces’ flagship operation in this region. Our two countries aim to increase joint navigation exercises, experience sharing, interoperability and crew training in polar environments, particularly by leveraging the expertise and support of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic.

In the Sahel and more recently in the Gulf of Guinea, Canada provides unwavering support to the French armed forces through its operation FREQUENCE. We intend to renew this important and effective cooperation in 2025.

Strengthening our collaboration in the modernization of the armed forces

To better respond to crises, Canada and France will deepen their partnership to modernize their armed forces and improve their ability to engage together.

We will continue to share expertise in human resources, which form the heart of our armed forces, in order to improve recruitment or for training in specific skills, by drawing on the capabilities that each has, particularly in terms of transport and strategic supply or submarine forces.

Canada and France are committed to increasing their defence resources and strengthening their capabilities in order to ensure their sovereignty and support their partners. In this context, we will develop the sharing of our respective technological know-how, and work on new concrete cooperation in the land, maritime, air and cyber domains. We will continue our discussions on the organization and improvement of our industrial and acquisition processes.

Combating foreign interference and manipulation of information

Canada and France are facing foreign interference operations and the manipulation of information. Canada and France will strengthen their exchanges in order to respond effectively to these threats.

Through our commitment to the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM), our two countries are developing a collective response framework to counter foreign information manipulation operations, as announced at the G7 Summit in Puglia. These efforts must be accompanied by support for honest and quality information, for example through the Partnership for Information and Democracy and its Forum on Information and Democracy. We welcome initiatives such as the Journalism Trust Initiative, in which several of our Canadian and French media participate, to promote quality information.

Through the G7 MRR, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these goals under our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

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

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Canada: Canada–France Declaration on a Stronger Defence and Security Partnership

Source: Government of Canada News

On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

Canada and France have cultivated a strong defence relationship, founded upon shared history, interests, a common language and universal values.

During the 20th century, Canada and France developed a close defence relationship. During both World Wars, Canadian soldiers and French soldiers fought side by side and this year, our countries celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings. Our defence relationship was solidified in 1949 with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which our two countries are founding members, as well as through our joint participation in various United Nations peacekeeping operations, NATO-led operations, and the Global Coalition Against Daesh.

We share common security interests in a world facing serious international tensions and, more broadly, one marked by unilateral assertions of power. Given this, our respective officials, both political and military, have met with one another more regularly in 2024, to enhance our conversations on defence and security, and ultimately build a more ambitious strategic partnership. We are convinced that stronger cooperation between our two countries will facilitate better defence of the rules-based international order founded on respect for state sovereignty, and our democratic principles. Together, we are committed to doing our part to uphold the principles of the Charter of the United Nations; to help manage international crises and conflicts, including in the cyber domain; and to ensure the collective security and defence of NATO members.

We will therefore expand our defence and security cooperation to support Ukraine, contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, reinforce our collaboration on crisis management and modernization of our armed forces, and fight against foreign interference and information manipulation.

Support Ukraine

Canada and France will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to thwart Russia’s war of aggression, which is a flagrant violation of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations. Our support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. In line with the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine of July 2023, Canada and France respectively signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine to confirm our commitment to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, foster resilience in the country, and deter future aggression from Russia in the long-term.

As part of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG), also known as the Ramstein group, we will strengthen our cooperation in the area of military equipment support to Ukraine and training.

Canada and France have trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation UNIFIER (Canada) and the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (France). Our armed forces have cooperated on training Ukrainian fighter pilots. Our armed forces will continue to deepen their strategic cooperation in the field of cyber defence in support of Ukraine. We are determined to work with Ukraine and our partners to support Ukraine in defending its sovereignty, independence and its territorial integrity against Russian aggression, both in the traditional domains and in cyberspace, including by helping strengthen Ukraine’s civilian cyber capacity through the Tallinn Mechanism. More broadly, we will continue our conversations on the topics of shared interest broached at the conference in Paris on February 26, 2024.

Canada and France recognize that the deportation of Ukrainian children is a major concern and, as part of the international coalition, we will continue our efforts to ensure the return of the Ukrainian children deported to Russia.

Contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

Canada and France are two Pacific nations that wish to actively contribute to regional stability and security. We aim to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, free of excessive dependencies and any form of coercion, and founded on respect for international law, sovereignty and multilateralism.

We reaffirm our shared commitment to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, through implementing United Nations resolutions and implementing sanctions decided upon by the United Nations Security Council. We remain fully engaged with our partners to dissuade any attempt to circumvent those sanctions by means of maritime surveillance and maritime air surveillance.

We deplore the rising tensions in the South China Sea. We strongly oppose coercive and destabilizing activities, which are leading to increasingly violent and recurrent incidents, and call for the various parties to engage in dialogue. We also highlight the importance for all states to be able to exercise their rights and freedoms, including freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Our two countries will strengthen our cooperation in terms of strategic and military analysis in the region, study opportunities for deploying future joint patrol missions, and increase our participation in multilateral exercises. This cooperation will improve interoperability between the armed forces of our two countries. In the same vein, we will consider integrating Canadian support to the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.

Canada and France will cooperate more closely to fight against illegal fishing and ensure maritime surveillance with Pacific Island countries in order to strengthen their sovereignty. We will work on joint deployments in the area. We will also strengthen regional security by participating in the training of Pacific Island partner countries.

Collaborate more closely on international crisis management and conduct joint operations

Canada and France recognize that climate change is not only an environmental threat, but is also one of the greatest security challenges of our time. We wholeheartedly support NATO’s Climate Change and Security Action Plan, and we are two of the 12 sponsoring Allied nations of the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence in Montreal.

We will share our crisis management situation assessments, as we did recently during the crisis in Haiti, and in anticipation of situations in areas of mutual interest, like the Middle East. We will identify new opportunities to deploy together. We will strengthen the partnership within NATO by sharing experience among framework nations for Canada’s deployment in Latvia and France’s deployment in Romania. France stands ready to cooperate with Canada to facilitate logistical support to Canadian forces prepositioned in Latvia.

In the Canadian Arctic, Canada and France collaborate on Operation NANOOK, the Canadian Armed Forces’ signature operation in that region. Our two countries wish to increase joint navigation exercises, knowledge sharing, interoperability and training of crews in polar environments, drawing on the expertise and support of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic.

In the Sahel and more recently in the Gulf of Guinea, Canada has provided the French Armed Forces with unfailing support under Operation FREQUENCE. We intend to renew this important, effective collaboration in 2025.

Collaborate more closely on the modernization of armed forces

To better respond to crises, Canada and France will deepen our partnership to modernize our armed forces and improve our ability to conduct joint operations.

We will continue sharing expertise on human resources, the heart of our armies, to improve recruitment and training on specific skills, while leveraging each other’s capabilities in areas such as transport, strategic resupply, and submarine forces.

Canada and France are committed to increasing our defence capacity and strengthening our capabilities to ensure our sovereignty and support our partners. To that end, we will share our respective technical know-how, and will find tangible new ways to work together on land, sea, air and cyberspace. We will continue discussing how to organize and improve our industrial and procurement processes.

Fight against foreign interference and information manipulation

Canada and France are confronted with foreign interference operations and information manipulation. Canada and France will increase communication with each other to effectively respond to those threats.

Through our commitment to the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM), our two countries are developing a collective response framework to counter foreign operations of information manipulation, as announced at the G7 Summit in Apulia. These efforts must be accompanied by support for factual and high-quality information, such as through the International Partnership on Information and Democracy and the Forum on Information and Democracy. We welcome initiatives such as the Journalism Trust Initiative, in which Canadian and French media are participating, to foster high-quality information.

Thanks to the G7 RRM, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these objectives during our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

MIL OSI Canada News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Council’s dedicated teams on high alert again as weather warning issued
Source: City of Wolverhampton

The Met Office issued a yellow weather warning affecting Wolverhampton today (Thursday) running into tomorrow morning (Friday) with an amber warning in place for nearby areas.

It follows heavy downpours last weekend which caused disruption across the city with council teams working through the night to address them; from clearing blocked drains to removing fallen trees and dealing with collapsed walls.

Hard-working council staff are once again braced for another busy time and are at the ready to deal with calls on a priority basis.

Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council cabinet member for transport and green city, said: “With further heavy rain expected we are planning ahead with crews carrying out precautionary cleansing of drains and gullies and on standby to respond to any incidents as and when they occur.

“Teams are monitoring the situation and working collaboratively to coordinate a response.

“There are more than 34,000 gullies across the city. While our dedicated staff will do everything they can to respond to the hundreds of calls we receive on a priority basis, we are asking the public – wherever possible – to help prevent further flooding by sweeping any leaves that they may find blocking drains and gullies near their properties. This will enable rainwater to drain away more quickly.”

Advice and guidance can be found at Flood Warning.

Do not email in an emergency, for anything urgent ring one of the numbers below:
- 01902 55 5511 between 9am and 5pm weekdays
- 01902 44 2999 out of hours
- Forecasts are being regularly updated so please visit Met Office for the most up-to-date information on weather warnings – the Wolverhampton forecast is available here. Please also visit GOV.UK to view the latest on any Environment Agency flood alerts or warnings (there is also an option on this page to sign up directly for the free flood warning notification service).
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: LaLota Keeps Gov’t Open, Touts Bipartisan Wins
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Nick LaLota (R-Suffolk County) released the following statement after voting in favor of H.R. 9747 to keep the federal government open and working for the American people.

“Despite partisan fear-mongering, House Republicans have kept the government funded, open, and working for the American people. While others bicker and play politics, I stay focused on delivering real results for Suffolk County, including securing over $150 million in federal funding for our communities,” said LaLota. “Since taking office, I’ve been proud to rank among the most productive freshman members, passing more bills than 97% of my peers—eight bipartisan bills and 20 amendments through the House. These efforts include protecting the Long Island Sound, addressing the fentanyl and sanctuary city crises, and supporting our small businesses and veterans. My commitment is to put the American people first and improve the quality of life for everyone in Suffolk County.”

To read the full text of the legislation, click HERE.

Background:

LaLota has consistently and successfully voted to keep the government open, funded, and working for the American people.

Since being sworn into office, LaLota has passed eight of his bills through the House, each of which has earned bipartisan support:
- H.R. 3511 – Service Disabled Veteran Opportunities in Small Business Act
- H.R. 4424 – Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act
- H.R. 4669 – DOE & SBA Research Act
- H.R. 5441 – Long Island Sound Restoration & Stewardship Reauthorization Act
- H.R. 5717 – No Bailout for Sanctuary Cities Act
- H.R. 7105 – Women-Owned Small Business Certification & Opportunity Expansion Act
- H.R. 7987 – Plain Language in Contracting Act
- H.R. 8663 – DETECT Fentanyl & Xylazine Act
Through the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding bills, LaLota secured over $150 million in federal funding that will directly benefit Suffolk County, including millions in Community Project Funding for infrastructure projects, water quality improvements, and wastewater treatment in each of the First Congressional District’s Towns.

H.R. 9747 would extend current government funding through December 20th, 2024, extend the authorization of the National Flood Insurance Program, ensure working families have access to Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits, guarantee Veteran, Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security benefits continue, provide an additional $231 million for the Secret Service for protective operations for Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominees in the 2024 Campaign and activities related to National Special Security Events and provide the agency with flexibility to quickly obligate funds for protective operations, and allow the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flexibility to quickly obligate funds provided by the CR for the Disaster Relief Fund to respond to disasters.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI: Groupama Group 2024 half-year results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Premium income (insurance premiums and other income) of €12.0 billion, up +8.7%

Growth in property and casualty insurance (+5.0%)
Increase in premium income in health and protection insurance (+10.0%)
Strong growth in the savings and pensions business (+20.7%)
Insurance revenue (IFRS 17) of €7.9 billion

Net income of €398 million

Economic operating income of €409 million, impacted by events in New Caledonia and by a better understanding of the seasonality effect
Fairly moderate weather loss experience
Combined non-life ratio of 95.9%

Strong solvency ratio of 190% without transitional measure

Solvency ratio of 249% with transitional measure on underwriting reserves
Group’s IFRS equity of €9.3 billion
Contractual services margin of €3.6 billion

The Board of Directors of Groupama Assurances Mutuelles met on 26 September 2024, under the chairmanship of Laurent Poupart, and approved the Group’s combined financial statements for the first half of 2024. The half-year financial statements underwent a limited review by the statutory auditors.

Activity (insurance premiums and other income)

As at 30 June 2024, Groupama’s combined premium income stood at €12.0 billion, a +8.7% increase from 30 June 2023. The increase came from property and casualty insurance (+5.0%), health and personal protection insurance (+10%), and savings and pensions (+20.7%).

Groupama premium income as at 30 June 2024

in millions of euros	30/06/2024	Like-for-like change (%)
Property & casualty insurance	6,470	+5.0%
Health & personal protection	3,690%	+10.0%
Savings & pensions	1,734	+20.7%
Financial businesses	120	+16.3%
GROUP TOTAL	12,014	+8.7%

In France

Insurance premium income in France as at 30 June 2024 amounted to €10.3 billion, up +8.8% compared with 30 June 2023.

In property and casualty insurance, premium income totalled €5.3 billion as at 30 June 2024, up +4.6% compared with 30 June 2023. All segments were up, including agricultural (+5.0%), home insurance (+3.9%) and motor insurance (+1.7%).

The health and personal protection business continued to grow (+9.4%) to €3.5 billion as at 30 June 2024, driven by individual health insurance (+5.5%) and growth in group insurance (+15.9%).

In savings and pensions, premium income increased significantly (+24.7%) to €1.5 billion as at 30 June 2024 thanks to strong inflows from unit-linked products. Unit-linked products accounted for more than 60% of premium income in individual savings and pensions.

Abroad

Over the first half of 2024, business reached €1.6 billion, up +7.6% at constant scope and exchange rates compared with 30 June 2023, mainly from the sustained business growth in Hungary (+14.2%) and Italy (+6.1%).

In property and casualty insurance, premium income totalled €1.1 billion as at 30 June 2024, up +7.2% compared with the previous period. This increase was due to the growth in home insurance in particular (+15.1%), mainly in Hungary and Greece, motor insurance (+5.5%) in Hungary and Italy, and good performance in business and local authorities casualty insurance (+13.5%).

Health and protection businesses grew significantly (+22.0%) to €195 million, benefiting from the growth of the group health and personal protection segments (+42.3%), particularly in Romania and Bulgaria.

Premium income in savings and pensions was stable (-0.3%), with strong growth in unit-linked products (+24.8%) mitigating the decline in euro funds (-33.8%).

Financial businesses

The Group’s premium income was €120 million, including €116 million from Groupama Asset Management and €4 million from Groupama Epargne Salariale.

Results

The Group’s economic operating income amounted to €409 million as at 30 June 2024 compared with €612 million as at 30 June 2023.

It came from property and casualty insurance for €181 million (€378 million as at June 30, 2023) and health and protection insurance for €68 million (€182 million as at June 30, 2023). The non-life combined ratio stood at 95.9% as at 30 June 2024, up +4.2 points compared with 30 June 2023. This increase was largely due to the cost of the events in New Caledonia in May and June 2024 as well as the recognition of a seasonality reserve, making it possible to better capture the effects of seasonal fluctuations. Weather claims remained at a fairly moderate level, comparable with the level at the end of June 2023. The operating costs ratio was virtually stable at 28.7% as at 30 June 2024.

Economic operating income in savings and pensions was €208 million as at 30 June 2024 compared with €57 million as at 30 June 2023. It benefited from the result of the switch of the share reinsured by Groupama Gan Vie to CNP Retraite in the PREFON Retraite reinsurance treaty, effective 1 January 2024.

Economic operating income amounted to +€20 million from financial businesses and -€68 million from the Group’s holding company business as at 30 December 2024.

The transition from economic operating income to net income includes non-recurring items, in particular the realisation of capital gains or losses, the change in the fair value of financial assets, and financing expenses. Overall, the Group’s net income amounted to €398 million as at 30 June 2024 compared with €447 million as at 30 June 2023.

Balance sheet

Group’s equity totalled €9.3 billion as at 30 June 2024 compared with €9.9 billion as at 31 December 2023. This change was mainly due to the redemption in May 2024 of perpetual subordinated bonds issued in 2014 for €871 million, partially offset by the positive contribution of the result. Note that the perpetual subordinated debt issued in early July 2024 for €600 million is not included in the 2024 half-year financial statements.

The Group’s contractual service margin, which represents the deferred future profits of outstanding contracts in savings and pensions and long-term protection, calculated discounted, was stable at €3.6 billion as at 30 June 2024.

As at 30 June 2024, the Solvency 2 ratio, without transitional measure on underwriting reserves, was 190%. The 7-point decrease in this ratio compared with end-2023 was mainly due to the redemption of subordinated bonds issued in 2014, mitigated by the result over the period. The perpetual subordinated debt issued at the beginning of July 2024 is not included in the ratio as at 30 June 2024. Including the transitional measure on underwriting reserves, authorised by the ACPR, the ratio was 249%.

The Group’s financial strength is highlighted by Fitch Ratings, which confirmed in March 2024 the IFS Groupama’s rating of ‘A+’ with a ‘Stable’ outlook.

Group Communications Department

For the financial statements as at 30/06/2024, the Group’s financial information consists of:

this press release, which is available on the website groupama.com,
Groupama Group’s half-year financial report, which will be filed with the AMF on 30 September 2024 and posted on the groupama.com website on the same day. The English version will be available on 22 October 2024.

About Groupama Group

For more than 100 years, Groupama Group has based its actions on timeless, humanist values to enable as many people as possible to build their lives in confidence. It relies on humane, caring, optimistic and responsible communities. The Groupama Group, one of the leading mutual insurers in France, carries out its insurance and service business activities in ten countries. The Group has 12 million members and customers and 31,000 employees throughout the world, with premium income of €17.0 billion.

Appendix: Groupama key figures

Premium income (insurance premiums and other income)

€ million	30/06/2023 pro forma*	30/06/2024	Change ** as %
> France	9,507	10,339	+8.8%
Property & casualty insurance	5,102	5,335	+4.6%
Health & personal protection	3,195	3,495	+9.4%
Savings & pensions	1,210	1,508	+24.7%
> International & Overseas	1,445	1,555	+7.6%
Property & casualty insurance	1,059	1,135	+7.2%
Health & personal protection	160	195	+22.0%
Savings & pensions	227	226	-0.3%
Total Insurance	10,952	11,894	+8.6%
Financial businesses	103	120	+16.3%
Groupama premium income	11,055	12,014	+8.7%

* Based on comparable data
** Change on a like-for-like exchange rate and consolidation basis

Net income

€ million	30/06/2023	30/06/2024
Insurance – France Insurance – International	545 71	396 62
Financial businesses	15	20
Holding companies	-19	-68
Economic operating income	612	409
Recurring financial margin	-69	31
Others	-96	-43
Net income	447	398

Balance sheet

€ million	31/12/2023	30/06/2024
Group’s IFRS quity	9,862	9,280
Subordinated debts	3,009	2,140
– equity instrument	871	–
– financing debts	2,138	2,140
Contractual services margin	3,649	3,638
Total balance sheet	91,949	88,587

Main ratios

	30/06/2023	30/06/2024
PAA combined ratio	91.6%	95.9%

	31/12/2023	30/06/2024
Solvency 2 ratio (with transitional measure)*	267%	249%
Solvency 2 ratio (without transitional measure)*	197%	190%

* transitional measure on underwriting reserves

Insurer Financial Strength rating – Fitch Ratings

	Rating	Outlook
Groupama Assurances Mutuelles and its subsidiaries	A+	Stable

Attachment

Groupama_HY 2024 results_press release

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Flooding impacts across the country
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Heavy rainfall forecast over the next 24 hours across the country means significant river and surface water flooding is possible across central England.
Heavy rainfall forecast over the next 24 hours across the country means significant river and surface water flooding is possible across central England

Northamptonshire, Cambridgeshire, Worcestershire, Bedfordshire and Gloucestershire, amongst others, are likely to be affected with minor impacts expected in other parts of Southern England and the North with river flooding is also possible on Friday in the north-east of England.

At 1pm on Thursday there were 27 flood warnings, showing flooding is expected, and 73 flood alerts, showing flooding is possible.

Heavy rain and thunderstorms earlier in the week has led to around 385 properties flooded Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire, Kent and the Home Counties.

With further rain coming, Environment Agency teams are out on the ground putting up flood defences, clearing blockages and supporting local authorities in their response work.

We continue to urge people to keep an eye on the weather, check their flood risk, and take care planning their journeys.

Kate Marks, Flood Duty Manager at the Environment Agency, said:

Heavy rainfall across the country means that significant river and surface water flooding impacts are possible in parts of central England today and into Friday. Minor river flooding impacts are also possible in parts of north-east England today and Friday.

Environment Agency teams continue to be out on the ground, supporting local authorities in responding to surface water flooding. We urge people to plan their journeys carefully, follow the advice of local emergency services on the roads and not to drive through flood water – it is often deeper than it looks and just 30cm of flowing water is enough to float your car.

People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation as well as following @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.

The Flooding Minister has today visited communities in Dunstable and Leighton Buzzard to hear more about the impacts earlier this week. On Wednesday, Environment Secretary visited Northamptonshire on Wednesday to receive a briefing on their response and the actions taken to protect communities locally.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)

Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Updates to this page
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: $7 Million For Community Environmental Education
Source: US State of New York

In celebration of Climate Week, Governor Kathy Hochul today announced $7 million in competitive grant funding for community-based, not-for-profit, and tribal organizations to support the construction, or renovation of existing facilities, to create community environmental education centers, which will offer classes and programs on environmental awareness. The centers must be located within or serve a disadvantaged community or an environmental justice community and will help inspire exploration, discovery, and learning about the environment.

“New York State’s innovative work to protect the environment and address climate change’s disproportionate impacts on disadvantaged communities includes ensuring the next generation of environmental advocates have access to nature where they live, work and play,” Governor Hochul said. “Environmental education centers supported by this funding will equip visitors with the knowledge they need to join the charge against climate change, protect our environment for future generations, and encourage people to discover and support local cultural preservation.”

New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (Climate Act) recognizes that climate change doesn’t affect all communities equally and charged the Climate Justice Working Group with the development of criteria to identify disadvantaged communities to ensure frontline and otherwise under-resourced communities benefit from the state’s historic transition to cleaner, greener sources of energy, reduced pollution, cleaner air, and improved economic opportunities. Visit New York’s Climate Act website to view an interactive map and a list of disadvantaged communities statewide.

Funding for this grant opportunity is provided from the State’s Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) and is available to support capital costs of new construction or renovation proposals. Grants ranging from $250,000 to $3 million will be awarded to fund education centers that explore a broad range of topics such as urban ecology, environmental justice challenges, green technology, and urban environmental sustainability. Proposals may include capital costs, such as purchasing of building or land; construction or renovation; expansion or updating a facility; purchasing furniture, fixtures, and equipment; and purchasing technological hardware.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar said, “DEC recognizes that bolstering environmental education is critical to supporting real action to fight climate issues affecting disadvantaged and environmental justice communities statewide. Environmental education centers provide a variety of accessible programs and services for individuals, families, and groups and serve as valuable community assets where people gather to hold events, learn about cultural preservation and environmental stewardship, build community resilience, and engage in community climate action.”

Possible uses or programming for a center include:
- Education about indoor air pollution and modeling methods to reduce exposure to indoor air pollution;
- Education about environmental justice challenges;
- Cultural preservation and environmental stewardship;
- Green jobs training and education;
- Programs, information and exhibits that increase awareness and stewardship of the local environment;
- Models of sustainable development, including LEED Green Building Certification, green infrastructure, and agriculture;
- Extreme weather shelters with innovative architecture or engineering demonstrations;
- Research and monitoring programs, focusing on watershed issues, combined sewer overflow, vehicle emissions, energy generation, solid waste transfer activities and/or other environment issues;
- Community space for local community-based organizations, community events, and workshops;
- K-12 educational programming in STEAM that may include ecology, environmental harms/risks/issues, green technology, and environmental sustainability;
- College level electives in ecology, green energy technology and environmental sustainability; and
- Outdoor components such as community gardens or farms.
The deadline for all applications is 3 p.m. on Jan. 22, 2025. The request for applications (RFA) is only available online through The Statewide Financial System of New York (sfs.ny.gov). Not-for-profit community-based organizations must be registered and prequalified in SFS to apply.

New York State’s Nation-Leading Climate Plan 

New York State’s climate agenda calls for an orderly and just transition that creates family-sustaining jobs, continues to foster a green economy across all sectors and ensures that a minimum of 35 percent, with a goal of 40 percent, of the benefits of clean energy investments are directed to disadvantaged communities. Guided by some of the nation’s most aggressive climate and clean energy initiatives, New York is advancing a suite of efforts – including the New York Cap-and-Invest program (NYCI) and other complementary policies – to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030 and 85 percent by 2050 from 1990 levels. New York is also on a path toward a zero-emission electricity sector by 2040, including 70 percent renewable energy generation by 2030, and economy-wide carbon neutrality by mid-century. A cornerstone of this transition is New York’s unprecedented clean energy investments, including more than $28 billion in 61 large-scale renewable and transmission projects across the State, $6.8 billion to reduce building emissions, $3.3 billion to scale up solar, nearly $3 billion for clean transportation initiatives and over $2 billion in NY Green Bank commitments. These and other investments are supporting more than 170,000 jobs in New York’s clean energy sector as of 2022 and over 3,000 percent growth in the distributed solar sector since 2011. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality, New York also adopted zero-emission vehicle regulations, including requiring all new passenger cars and light-duty trucks sold in the State be zero emission by 2035. Partnerships are continuing to advance New York’s climate action with more than 400 registered and more than 150 certified Climate Smart Communities, over 500 Clean Energy Communities, and the State’s largest community air monitoring initiative in 10 disadvantaged communities across the State to help target air pollution and combat climate change.

MIL OSI USA News –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 685

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Note: The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
SEL5

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 685
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1045 AM EDT Thu Sep 26 2024

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Northern Florida
Southern Georgia
Coastal Waters

* Effective this Thursday morning and evening from 1045 AM until
1000 PM EDT.

* Primary threats include…
Several tornadoes likely

SUMMARY…Rainbands associated with Hurricane Helene will continue
to move through this area throughout the day. Wind fields will
strengthen as the hurricane continues northward, with low-level
winds becoming increasingly favorable for tornadoes. These
conditions will result in a long-duration risk for tornadoes across
northern Florida and southern Georgia.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
north and south of a line from 40 miles west northwest of
Tallahassee FL to 60 miles north northeast of Gainesville FL. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 683…WW 684…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 16035.

…Mosier

SEL5

URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
Tornado Watch Number 685
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1045 AM EDT Thu Sep 26 2024

The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

* Tornado Watch for portions of
Northern Florida
Southern Georgia
Coastal Waters

* Effective this Thursday morning and evening from 1045 AM until
1000 PM EDT.

* Primary threats include…
Several tornadoes likely

SUMMARY…Rainbands associated with Hurricane Helene will continue
to move through this area throughout the day. Wind fields will
strengthen as the hurricane continues northward, with low-level
winds becoming increasingly favorable for tornadoes. These
conditions will result in a long-duration risk for tornadoes across
northern Florida and southern Georgia.

The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
north and south of a line from 40 miles west northwest of
Tallahassee FL to 60 miles north northeast of Gainesville FL. For a
complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch outline
update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU5).

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
and possible warnings.

&&

OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 683…WW 684…

AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
surface and aloft to 0.5 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 500. Mean
storm motion vector 16035.

…Mosier

Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
SAW5
WW 685 TORNADO FL GA CW 261445Z – 270200Z
AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
40WNW TLH/TALLAHASSEE FL/ – 60NNE GNV/GAINESVILLE FL/
..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM N/S /31W TLH – 21WNW CRG/
HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..0.5 INCH. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
MAX TOPS TO 500. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 16035.

LAT…LON 31498497 31358187 29618187 29758497

THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
FOR WOU5.

Watch 685 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

Note: Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

High (80%)

Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

Low (20%)

Wind

Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

Low (10%)

Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

Low (10%)

Hail

Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

Low ( 2 inches

Low (

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Translation: First Nations National Guardians Network to join Ministers Guilbeault and Hajdu to announce significant investment in Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives

MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement regarding Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.

Gatineau, Quebec – September 26, 2024 – Media representatives are advised that the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change, will make an announcement about Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives.

He will be joined by the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services, Marcus Powlowski, Member of Parliament for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, Jaimee Gaunce, Executive Director of the National First Nations Guardians Network, and Valérie Courtois, Executive Director of the Indigenous Leadership Initiative.

Minister Guilbeault will hold a press briefing after the announcement.

Activity: Announcement and press briefingDate: Friday, September 27, 2024Time: 9:00 a.m. (EDT)Location: Spirit GardenSleeping Giant Parkway (near Prince Arthur’s Landing) Thunder Bay, Ontario

Media representatives wishing to attend are requested to register with the media team. Media Relations Environment and Climate Change Canada and will be notified if there are any changes to the process.

Oliver AndersonDirector of CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change819-962-0686Oliver.Anderson@ec.gc.ca

Media RelationsEnvironment and Climate Change Canada819-938-3338 or 1-844-836-7799 (toll free)media@ec.gc.ca

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

MIL Translation OSI

January 23, 2025

Category: Weather

State of Climate

Enhanced drought resilience

Conference themes

What You’ll Need When You Apply

Safety Tips During the Storm

Support Ukraine

Contributing to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

Strengthening our collaboration in international crisis management and engaging together

Strengthening our collaboration in the modernization of the armed forces

Combating foreign interference and manipulation of information

Support Ukraine

Contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

Collaborate more closely on international crisis management and conduct joint operations

Collaborate more closely on the modernization of armed forces

Fight against foreign interference and information manipulation

Share this page

Updates to this page