The Life News Aus. Oct 1, 2020

News from World, Worldwide readership.

Vol. 03 Issue 39 Oct. 01, 2020

Russia offers to host NKR peace talks

TL Bureau, Moscow

Russia has offered to have chats on finishing the battling about the fate of the long term contested district of Nagorno-Karabakh. Unfamiliar Minister Sergei Lavrov made the proposal to the administrations of the two nations guaranteeing the region, Azerbaijan and Armenia. His office said he had asked an end to “warlike manner of speaking”. In excess of 100 individuals have kicked the bucket since Sunday - the most noticeably terrible erupt in years.

Authoritatively some portion of Azerbaijan, Nagorno-Karabakh is controlled by ethnic Armenians.

Armenia and Azerbaijan - two previous Soviet republics - battled

a war in 1988-1994 over the district.

There are developing feelings of trepidation that worldwide forces could be hauled into the contention.

On Wednesday, Mr Lavrov’s office said he had called the unfamiliar clergymen of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to state Russia was eager to have talks.

Russian President Vladimir Putin

examined the battling with French President Emmanuel Macron in a different call. The two chiefs emphasized calls by world forces for a prompt truce. Russia is important for a military union with Armenia and has an army installation in the nation. Notwithstanding, it likewise has close connections to the legislature of Azerbaijan.

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UN called for more support for ‘people’s vaccine’ on COVID-19 TL Bureau, Geneva/Washington D.C.

Antonio Guterres, the secretarygeneral of the United Nations, has again required a “quantum jump in help” for a worldwide immunization intend to contain the Covid pandemic, as the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and Sweden guaranteed almost $1bn in assets to help creating countries secure admittance to COVID-19 antibodies and medicines.

The Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator and its COVAX office – drove by the World Health Organization and GAVI antibody union – has gotten $3bn, however needs a further $35bn, of which $15bn is required before the year’s over. Approximately 168 nations have now joined to COVAX, the UN said.

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12 Hong Kong fugitives arrest approved by China TL Bureau, Beijing/Hong Kong

Chinese specialists have officially endorsed the captures of 12 Hong Kong activists got a month ago while supposedly attempting to escape the domain for Taiwan.

The gathering was gotten approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of the city on August 23 while attempting to escape by vessel, specialists said at that point, adding that they were given to police in Shenzhen, the southern terrain city flanking Hong Kong.

The 12 had since vanished into China’s misty legal framework, with legal advisors battling to get to them and relatives communicating dread over their destiny.

On Wednesday the People’s Procuratorate of Yantian District in Shenzhen said it had affirmed the captures.

Two of the prisoners,

alluded to as Deng and Qiao individually, were captured on doubt of helping the others get away from Hong Kong.

These names were probably

going to allude to the Chinese last names of prisoners Tang Kai-yin and Quinn Moon.

The other 10 – incorporating suspects with the names Li

and Huang – were captured for making illicit fringe intersections.

The case stays under scrutiny, the announcement included.

Groups of the 12 said in an announcement they were “stunned and worried” by the endorsement.

Hong Kong’s Security Bureau affirmed that territory specialists educated nearby police regarding Wednesday’s endorsement, however declined to remark on families’ grievances of legal advisors being banished from visiting the prisoners.

A portion of those on board the vessel were confronting arraignment in Hong Kong for exercises connected to a year ago’s gigantic and frequently brutal favorable to popular government fights, as per experts in the domain.

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B

attling among Armenian and Azerbaijani powers in the contested enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh proceeded for a third day Tuesday as allures for a truce were given by global pioneers.

An Azerbaijani safeguard service representative said its powers had repulsed Armenian assaults in night fights along the line of contact between the different sides, devastating Armenian military hardware and work force.

Protection Ministry Vagif Dargahli told neighborhood media that Armenian military assaulted its situations in the Fizuli locale however had to withdraw, deserting the assemblages of killed Armenian fighters.

A whole Armenian mechanized rifle regiment “was totally demolished” in the fight, Dargahli stated, murdering in any event 10 Armenian warriors.

Armenia, then, likewise announced battling for the duration of the night and said that Nagorno-Karabakh’s military had turned around assaults from a few bearings along

Till third day still clash between Armenia & Azerbaijan

the line of contact.

“As of now, the units of the Defense Army are certainly repulsing all the endeavors of the foe assaults, causing substantial misfortunes of gear and labor,” the Armenian safeguard service said.

Armenia guaranteed Azerbaijani military terminated on a unit in the bordertown of Vardenis numerous miles from the NagornoKarabakh locale after prior denying Azerbaijani cases that Armenian powers had terminated rockets into the Dashkesan area of Azerbaijan.

Yerevan said Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 contender providing spread for the supposed attack on Vardenis destroyed an Armenian Su25 assault airplane, killing the pilot.

Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said 10 Azerbaijani regular folks had been

killed since battling started on Sunday, the Russian news organization Interfax detailed.

World pioneers on Tuesday communicated alert at the size of the battling and asked dealings to forestall a more extensive war. Armenia and Azerbaijan have since quite a while ago conflicted over the breakaway area, which is situated inside Azerbaijan’s outskirts however asserts devotion to Armenia.

Russia encouraged

editorial

Turkey to utilize its impact with Baku to stop dangerous conflicts.

“We approach all sides, particularly accomplice nations, for example, Turkey to do everything they can for a truce and return to a quiet settlement of this contention utilizing political and conciliatory methods,” Kremlin representative Dmitry Peskov told writers.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo each approached the two sides to stop the viciousness, while Pompeo and French President Emmanuel Macron encouraged the different sides to meet with the Minsk Group - a worldwide team made in 1992 to locate a quiet goal to the NagornoKarabakh impasse.

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world

Prime Minister co-chairs high-level meeting to address economic devastation caused by COVID‑19 and announces new funding to fight the pandemic

TL Bureau, Ottawa, Ontario

Today, the Prime Ministers Justin Trudeau of Canada and Andrew Holness of Jamaica, and United Nations SecretaryGeneral António Guterres convened the second HighLevel event on Financing for Development in the Era of COVID‑19 and Beyond.

Heads of state, governments, and international organizations met to discuss how to bolster and urgently accelerate our global

Kuwait’s Emir Court Announces Death of Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed AlJabir Al-Sabah TL Bureau, Kuwait

Kuwait’s Amiri Diwan (Emiri Court) announced here today the death of Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jabir Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait.

The Kuwaiti News Agency (KUNA) reported a statement announced by the Emiri Court saying that: Amiri Diwan announce with utmost sorrow and sadness the death of the late, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jabir Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, to the Kuwaiti people, the Arab as well as the Islamic nations and the friendly peoples of the world.

As the Emir of Kuwait passed away, the statement added, we pray to Allah to bestow upon him His abundant mercy and abode him in His vast paradise.

To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return, the statement concluded.

response to the immediate significant economic and human impacts of COVID‑19, and advance concrete solutions to international development over the medium and long-term.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau announced an additional $400 million in international development funding this year. This new funding will go to trusted partners on the ground fighting COVID‑19, and will enable Canada to support the recovery

and resilience of developing countries. It will also address short-term humanitarian and development needs caused by the pandemic and other crises.

The ultimate objective is to ensure that the development gains made over the past decade are not lost, and ensure that 2030 Agenda and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are not at risk. Canada will make sure that women and girls, who have been disproportionally

On 1 October, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will take part in the investiture of the two captains regent, the joint heads of state of the Republic of San Marino. The head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs was invited as official speaker at the ceremony.

The official visit will also provide an opportunity to discuss bilateral and international issues.

leadership on financing for international development and is investing more while supporting developing countries on their economic recoveries and resilience.

The Government of Canada recently committed $220 million through the COVAX Advance Market Commitment to purchase vaccine doses for low- and middle-income countries, because we cannot beat this virus unless we end it everywhere.

Invitation letter by President Charles Michel to the members of the European Council ahead of their special meeting on 1-2 October 2020

TL Bureau, Brussels

Our special meeting on Thursday and Friday will primarily focus on Europe’s place in the world and our capacity to shape our own destiny.

Our meeting will start on Thursday at 15.00 with the traditional exchange of views with the President of the European Parliament, David Sassoli. We will then use our first working session for a debate on EU-China relations, following the EU-China leaders’ meeting via video conference on 14 September.

We want to work with China on tackling major global challenges such as the COVID 19 pandemic and climate change. We also want

to insist on a more balanced and reciprocal economic relationship, ensuring a level playing field. And we will continue to promote our values and standards.

At the end of the session, we will discuss current issues requiring our attention, namely the situation in Belarus, the poisoning of Alexei Navalny and the Nagorno-Karabakh escalation.

The dinner will be entirely devoted to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean and our relations with Turkey. Our objective is to create a space for a constructive dialogue with Turkey to achieve stability and security in the whole region, and to ensure full respect

Our Deepest Condolences on the Passing of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah TL Bureau, Washington D.C. We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and to the people of Kuwait. His vision shaped Kuwait into the prosperous and modern state it is today, and his global leadership resulted in lasting and positive change in Kuwait and the

entire Middle East region. His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah was a revered leader and a friend to all nations. The United States deeply valued the Amir’s strong partnership in promoting regional stability and security, as demonstrated by President Trump awarding the prestigious Legion of Merit, Degree Chief Commander to him as a token of our great appreciation.

The economic recovery from COVID-19 presents new challenges for large parts of the world. As we recover, the decisions we make today will either lay the foundation for clean growth or lockin polluting emissions for decades. We must embrace the opportunities offered by new, clean technology. We need to build back better. To answer this need, British Embassy Warsaw is

Recovery Forum will explore and showcase exciting new sectors that offer business opportunities to both countries. Participants will have the opportunity to: discuss the main challenges and opportunities for shifting towards a clean growth model learn about business opportunities on green finance hydrogen and solar in Poland and in the UK network with potential partners and clients in the field.

Federal Councillor Ignazio British Embassy Warsaw announces Cassis on UK-Poland Green Recovery Forum official visit organising the UK-Poland Green to San Marino TL Bureau, London Recovery Forum. The Green TL Bureau, Bern

impacted by the consequences of COVID‑19, benefit from this new funding. The pandemic has caused immense social and economic distress throughout the globe but it has acutely affected low- and middleincome countries. Through the High-Level event, the global community is coming together to enable recovery and build a future that is inclusive, sustainable and resilient.

The Government of Canada continues to further global

for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of all EU Member States.

This will only be possible if Turkey engages constructively. All options remain on the table to defend the legitimate interests of the EU and its Member States.

The EU can only be strong on the international stage if it has a resilient and innovative economic base. COVID-19 has undoubtedly revealed some of the EU’s weaknesses. But I believe we should turn this into an opportunity, critically assessing together how to make the EU more resilient.

Crucially, I would like us to discuss how we can best enhance the EU’s strategic autonomy alongside an

open and competitive social market economy.

Against this backdrop, we will have an in-depth discussion on Friday morning on unlocking the full potential of the Single Market, developing an ambitious industrial policy and exploiting the opportunities offered by the latest digital developments.

The exceptional recovery package, adopted in July, will help transform our economies and, along with the Green and Digital transitions, will support us achieve these ambitions.

At the end of the meeting, we will provide a brief update on negotiations with the United Kingdom.

Lower fees in early childhood education and care fees – boosting employment and easing daily life for families TL Bureau, Helsinki Lower fees in early childhood education and care will increase employment and raise the participation rate in early childhood education and care.

The first steps in the preparations for the Government proposal to reduce early childhood education and care (ECEC) fees are to raise the income thresholds by 31%. At the same time, the maximum fee for a family’s second child in ECEC will be reduced from 50% to 40%. A legislative proposal on the matter is scheduled to be submitted by the end of October.

In its budget session in September, the Government decided that, as part of the employment measures, EUR 70 million will be allocated to early childhood education and care payments to local authorities, which corresponds to the decline in ECEC revenue in local government due to higher

income thresholds and the change the discount for siblings.

As far as the implementation of the decision is concerned, the government parties have decided that the income thresholds will be raised by 31%. At the same time, the maximum fee for a family’s second child in ECEC will be reduced from 50% to 40%. In practice, these changes will make everyday life easier for families by bringing new families within the scope of lower fee categories and zero rates. “Lower fees in early childhood education and care makes everyday life easier for families, brings new children to early childhood education and care to learn and strengthens employment. So we are talking about an extensive measure that supports overall wellbeing. I’m sure many families will feel relieved once early childhood education fees take up a smaller part of their disposable income,” says Minister of Education Li Andersson.

4 Covid-19: working hours fell by 9.5% in the 2nd quarter 2020 TL Bureau, Neuchâtel

Despite the relaxation of protective measures against the coronavirus on 11 May 2020, the labour market was strongly impacted in the 2nd quarter 2020. Compared with the 2nd quarter 2019, effective weekly working hours per employed person fell by 9.5%.

The accommodation and food service activities sector saw the greatest decline in working hours (–54.1%). During the 2nd quarter 2020, almost one in two employees worked at home at least occasionally, a sharp increase compared with the previous year. These are some of the results of the Swiss Labour Force Survey (SLFS).

Social media are becoming more important for opinionforming TL Bureau, Biel/Bienne Social networks and journalistic online media are playing an increasing part in shaping people’s opinions in Switzerland.

This is particularly true for the French-speaking population and for younger people. This is one of the conclusions reached by Media Monitor Switzerland for 2019 published by OFCOM on 29 September 2020.

world

Farmers being misled on Agricultural Laws by vested interests: Dr Jitendra Singh

TL Bureau, New Delhi

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said today that the Contract Agreement, as per the Act brought in through the new Agricultural Laws , will be for the crops and not for the land, and alleged that the farmers are being misled to believe otherwise.

Launching a campaign from his Lok Sabha constituency in support of the Farmers Laws brought in by the Modi Govt and against the disinformation being spread by the Congress Party, Dr Jitendra Singh was addressing the Party workers, Sarpanches and BDC Chairmen from the border villages and other areas of districts Kathua and Udhampur.

Dr Jitendra Singh said, the irony is that while the common farmer is satisfied and has no apprehensions, it is some politically motivated interests which have no knowledge

or stake in farming but who are trying to make an issue out of it by trying to mislead the farmers.

He said, it is in the interest of the farming community of India and common people at large, that all the like-minded people should come out and vociferously dispel the disinformation and the malicious campaign launched by the self-seeking elements.

While the Bill clearly prohibits

sale, lease or mortgage of farmers’ land, Dr Jitendra Singh asked, where is the question of farmers’ land being taken over by certain capitalists as is being alleged?

He said, the Bill clearly states that the Agreement will be for the crops and not for the land.

Moreover, Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Contract Agreement with the farmers is to get the fixed price.

Not only this, the new Act also

oppression, prostitution and trafficking in human beings.

It is therefore proposed that the long-term task of the county administrative boards in this area continue on a permanent basis. This investment is worth SEK 100 million per year.

Outside of the Swedish Prison and Probation Service, responsibility for relapse prevention for perpetrators of violence is unclear and, in many parts of the country, work has been insufficient despite

high rates of IPV relapse. It is essential to protect victims of IVP from recurrence of violence, and that action to achieve this is taken throughout the country. The Government therefore intends to increase general government grants to municipalities by SEK 30 million in 2021 and by SEK 60 million per year from 2022. Measures to prevent IPV reoffending may include, for example, behavioural interventions for perpetrators of IPV.

provides the provision for farmers to withdraw from the Contract at any time without any penalty, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh accused the opposition of taking up imaginary issues of contention which do not find any reference in the Laws . For example, he said, it is nowhere mentioned that the provision of MSP will be done away with at any point of time and yet the Congress Party and some others are trying to create false fears in the minds of innocent farmers.

Dr Jitendra Singh appealed to party colleagues to reach out to each and every farmer in every village and explain to him the big conspiracy being hatched against him. This, he said, will enable the agricultural community to avail of the enormous welfare initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Long-term initiatives in the Government’s policy What response to intimate partner violence (IPV) are NATO

TL Bureau, Stockholm

In the Government’s view, it is important that violence prevention and support to victims are long-term. For this reason, the Government wants to provide better and more stable conditions for the county administrative boards’ gender equality efforts at regional level, focusing on preventing and combating men’s violence against women, IPV, honour-based violence and

President insists on speeding up payments to relatives of those killed in the An-26 crash TL Bureau, Kyiv

Council finalises its position on the Horizon Europe package

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conference call with the participation of representatives of the Cabinet of Ministers and law enforcement agencies. The Head of State raised the issue of payments to the families of those killed in the crash of the An-26 aircraft near Chuhuiv.

“Everything needs to be done to simplify bureaucratic procedures.

These payments must be urgent.

There is a law on social and legal protection of the military and members of their families, which provides for the procedure of such payments,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that the Ministry of Defense has sufficient funds to make these payments. He noted that each family of the victims will receive about 1.5 million hryvnias.

The Council today finalised its position on the proposed regulation establishing Horizon Europe, the EU framework programme for research and innovation for the years 2021 to 2027 (Horizon Europe regulation) and on the proposed decision on the specific programme implementing Horizon Europe (specific programme decision).

“Today’s agreement is an important step forward towards final adoption of Horizon Europe. We now need to make sure with the European Parliament and the Commission that our forward-looking EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation can enter into force in the beginning of the next year.

This is our joint task – for the benefit of the European research and innovation community as well as the competitiveness of the EU.” Anja Karliczek, German federal minister of education and research

TL Bureau, Brussels

Payments are due over the next three weeks when DNA testing of the bodies will be carried out.

Minister of Defense Andriy Taran informed the President that he banned the use of An-26 aircraft until the investigation into the

crash was completed. The Minister of Defense also noted that the onboard recorders of the crashed plane are being deciphered. Films with recordings of crew voices were sent to the State Bureau of Investigation.

Standardization Agreements?

TL Bureau, Brussels

Shortly after the formation of NATO in 1949, the Military Office for Standardization was established to improve interoperability among Allied armed forces. Today it is known as the NATO Standardization Office.

Countries need to share a common set of standards, especially among military forces, to carry out multinational operations.

By helping to achieve interoperability among NATO’s forces, as well as with those of its partners, standardization allows for more efficient use of resources and thus enhances the Alliance’s operational effectiveness.

Each NATO Ally ratifies a Standardization Agreement, or STANAG, and implements it within their own military. STANAGs cover everything from ammunition to vehicles to training techniques for military working dogs.

As the NATO Standardization Office approaches its 70th anniversary, its work is more important than ever for the Alliance. Challenges like cyber defence and space activities, and also new and emerging technologies, require a renewed focus on standardization efforts.

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australia

Charges laid after assault rifle, pistols and ammunition seized during joint-agency

TL Bureau, Sydney

Detectives have charged a man after an assault rifle, two pistols and ammunition were seized following a jointagency operation targeting the possession of prohibited weapons across Sydney’s south west.

Earlier this month, detectives from the NSW Police Force and Australian Federal Police (AFP) – as part of the National Anti-Gangs Squad (NAGS) – received information relating to the possession and supply of prohibited firearms across Sydney.

As part of ongoing inquiries, NAGS investigators conducted two Firearm Prohibition Order (FPO) searches at homes at Guildford and Parramatta and executed two search warrants at homes at Old Guildford and Yagoona, from 6am yesterday (Wednesday 30 September 2020). Officers were also assisted throughout the operation by the Criminal Groups Squad’s Strike Force Raptor. During the search of the Old Guilford home,

investigators seized an AR15 semi-automatic assault rifle, two automatic pistols, a silencer, knuckle dusters, a large quantity of ammunition and cannabis.

At the Yagoona home, investigators seized nearly $110,000 cash and nearly 500g of an unidentified white powder.

All items will undergo further examination. A 27-year-old man was arrested at the Old Guilford home and taken to Fairfield Police Station.

He was charged with three counts of possess unauthorised prohibited firearm, three counts of not keep firearm safely (prohibited firearm), five counts of acquire prohibited firearm part no authority to do so, possess ammunition without holding licence/ permit/authority, possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit and possess prohibited drug. The man appeared at Fairfield Local Court yesterday, where he was formally refused bail to reappear at the same court on Wednesday 28 October 2020.

Migration Advisory Committee reviews shortage occupation lists

A number of occupations should be added to the Shortage Occupation List (SOL), the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has advised.

TL Bureau, London Senior care workers and nursing assistants are among the occupations that should be added to the SOL to relieve pressure when freedom of movements ends.

The committee has, however, warned of the stark consequences of low wages in social care, with most frontline occupations in the sector ineligible for the skilled worker route and the SOL. It has reiterated the need to make jobs more attractive to UK workers by increasing salaries rather than relying on migrants, particularly during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Other occupations which should be added to the UK-wide list include butchers, bricklayers and welders, where there is clear evidence of staff and skills shortages which could be filled by overseas workers.

The MAC has also recommended additions to separate lists for all of the devolved nations, allowing additional flexibility and reflecting the different needs of each. This includes fishmongers, bakers and

Transforming Australian manufacturing to rebuild our economy

TL Bureau, Canberra

The Morrison Government is launching a new era of Australian manufacturing, as part of our JobMaker Plan to rebuild the economy, create jobs and recover from the COVID-19 recession.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said around $1.5 billion in new funding will be invested over the next four years in the Modern Manufacturing Strategy to make Australian manufacturers more competitive, resilient and able to scale-up to take on the world.

“We make things in Australia. We do it well. We need to keep making things in Australia. And with this

A woman at a laptop looking at a checklist

horticultural workers for Northern Ireland, childminders and nursery nurses for Scotland and health professionals for Wales.

It is proposed that a minor review of all lists takes place annually, with a major review taking place every three years.

MAC Chair, Professor Brian Bell said: The number of migrants coming to work in the UK has already decreased and we are likely to see an increase in unemployment over the next year as the economic impact of the pandemic continues,

so this has been a very challenging time to look at the Shortage Occupation Lists.

It has made us more willing to recommend some roles for inclusion simply because it is the sensible thing to do, but we have been clear that migration is not always the solution.

We remain particularly concerned about the social care sector, which is so central to the frontline response to this health pandemic, as it will struggle to recruit the necessary staff if wages do not increase as a matter of urgency.

The MAC, which provides independent, evidence-based advice on migration issues to the Government, was commissioned to consider what medium-skill occupations should be included ahead of the introduction of a points-based immigration system on 1 January 2021.

The SOL shows which occupations, amongst those eligible for the skilled worker route, are facing a shortage of suitable labour and where it is sensible to fill those shortages with migrant workers.

Annual Ministerial Statement on Rural and Regional Budget Outcomes

TL Bureau, Canberra

strategy, we will,” Prime Minister Morrison said. “The COVID crisis opens a new chapter for Australian manufacturing as a revitalised source of high-wage jobs, valuable exports and national income. “Our Modern Manufacturing Strategy is at the heart of our JobMaker plan.

It starts with creating a stable and competitive business environment to grow our all parts of our manufacturing sector, but it does not end there. “It will play to Australia’s strengths, improve collaboration and commercialisation, and create a sector that is modern, dynamic and highly skilled. “Through this Strategy, we are determined to ensure government, industry and

the research and education sectors are all working in the one direction to build scale in our manufacturing sector. “Manufacturing is critical to Australia’s economic future, to the prosperity of our regions and to the capabilities that underpin the success of so many other industries.”

Minister for Industry, Science and Technology Karen Andrews said this strategy reflects the lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as extensive work with industry before that. “Our manufacturers have risen to the challenge to deliver during COVID-19 and now, we’re unlocking their potential to deliver for our future,” Minister Andrews said.

The Government will deliver Australia’s first Ministerial Statement on Rural and Regional Budget Outcomes to Federal Parliament during Budget week next Thursday. The Statement will update the House on the Coalition Government’s economic roadmap for rural and regional communities.

It is the government’s intention to deliver this update annually. Regional communities and industries have been disproportionately affected by recent challenges including COVID 19, prolonged drought and

bushfires.

Our economic recovery plan will create jobs and more resilient regions helping to rebuild our economy and to secure Australia’s future. Just in the last week, the Government has announced $385 million for the new Regional Recovery Partnerships program, the regional Connectivity Program and the new Resilient Regional Leaders initiative, as well as further investment in the Building Better Regions Fund and regional tourism. Regional Australia will be key to helping Australia’s economic recovery from COVID-19.

The woman was originally charged with 21 counts of obtaining a financial advantage by deception and had $5.3 million worth of assets restrained by the Australian Federal Police (AFP). The previous media release can be found here.

It will be alleged the Auburn woman has since breached her bail conditions by contacting witnesses to the matter for which she was

previously charged.

The woman was arrested yesterday afternoon by New South Wales Police officers at Auburn Police Station and has been charged with breach of bail, contrary to section 77(1)(e) of the Bail Act 2013 (NSW) and attempting to pervert the course of justice, contrary to section 43(1) of the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth). She is

due to face Burwood Local Court today (1 October 2020).

Operation Pavo - comprising members from the AFP’s Taskforce Iris, National Disability Insurance Agency and Services Australia, was established earlier this year to target the threat of fraud against the Government’s financial support provided during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anyone with information about suspected fraud involving the NDIS should contact the Fraud Reporting Hotline on 1800 650 717.

Reports of other suspected criminal activity, including fraud against other government support measures, can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Woman previously arrested by NDIS Fraud Taskforce charged with breaching bail conditions TL Bureau, Sydney

A 42-year-old Sydney woman was last night charged with breaching her bail conditions and attempting to pervert the course of justice following her first arrest by National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Fraud Taskforce investigators last week (25 September 2020).

6 1 new case of COVID-19 TL Bureau, Wellington

There is one new case of COVID-19 to report in managed isolation in New Zealand today and no new cases in the community.

The person who has tested positive around day 3 of their time in managed isolation arrived from France via Singapore on September 25. They have been transferred to the Auckland quarantine facility.

There are 17 people isolating in the Auckland quarantine facility from the community, which includes 9 people who have tested positive for COVID-19 and their household contacts. One person is in hospital with COVID-19 at Middlemore hospital. The patient is in isolation on a general ward.

Since August 11, our contact tracing team has identified 4,073 close contacts of cases, of which 4,073 have been contacted and are self-isolating or have completed self-isolation. This number has dropped since yesterday due to records being identified as duplicates in the system. Twelve previously reported cases are now considered to have recovered, bringing our total number of active cases to 44.

NZ AND OTHER OCEANIA

Government puts teacher wellbeing at the centre

TL Bureau, Wellington

The Government is committing nearly $9 million to ensure educators in early learning services and schools get the wellbeing support they need.

Education Minister Chris Hipkins made the announcement, which includes providing frontline counselling and advice services for educators, during his address at the Post Primary Teachers Association (PPTA) annual conference.

“Teachers and leaders in early learning and schools have done an incredible job supporting students and their whānau during COVID-19. But this has come at a cost for many in the profession,” Chris Hipkins said.

“This package recognises the ongoing impact of the pandemic on many of our educators.

In particular, I am hearing concerns about the effect that

Community Languages Fund to increase support for Pacific community language projects

TL Bureau, Wellington

Round two of the Community Languages Fund (CLF) will provide even more support for Pacific grassroots community and family language projects with the introduction of a second funding tier of $10,000, in addition to the $2,500 tier, says Minister for Pacific Peoples Aupito William Sio. During the first round of the CLF, which closed on 31 July 2020, applicants were able to apply for up to $2,500 in funding to support language projects in their homes and in their community.

Launched following the Languages Innovation Fund (LIF) pilot programme for community funding administered by the Ministry for Pacific Peoples Languages Unit, the first round of the CLF received 143 applications over the eight weeks it was open.

“This was more than double the number of applications received under the Languages Innovation Fund,” says Aupito William Sio. “Based on feedback from community groups, the main reason for the CLF’s popularity was the simple and straightforward application process.

“Another contributing factor was the on-going engagements with the community, which provided a bit more clarity on what was expected when applying for the

fund.

“Groups were able to apply for funding to support events being run through the Pacific Language Weeks, and we noticed while there was an influx of applications from the larger cities, there was a growing number of smaller groups in the regions applying for funds to support their language week initiatives.

“What these trends highlight is the need to support the growth of these community initiatives not just in the immediate future, but also in their long-term planning and development of language initiatives. “When the Languages Unit assessed applications for round one, it was evident some of the projects would cost more than $2,500, specifically projects that create language resources such as app development, books, and digital resources,” says Aupito William Sio. To support this, round two of the CLF is providing a second funding tier of $10,000 in addition to the $2,500 tier. Round two of the CLF is open from today and will close on 28 October 2020, which will be the final round of CLF funding for 2020. For further information and how to apply, visit the Ministry for Pacific Peoples website: https://www.mpp.govt.nz/ community-funding/communitylanguages-fund/

recent Alert Level 3 measures have had on our teachers, centre leaders and principals in the Auckland region.”

The Government’s educator wellbeing package includes: An immediate $4.2m package of counselling and support services for Auckland educators. This package delivers, over a three month period, additional free-ofcharge Employment Assistance Programme (EAP) advice and group workshops on issues of concern to staff in state and state-integrated schools, kura, and early learning services.

These services will be rolled out during Term 4 2020.

A further $2m has been set aside to provide additional immediate EAP counselling and support services in locations or regions experiencing a further resurgence of COVID-19, with more options to provide nationwide support to be

investigated in the coming months. $1.5m to develop a nationwide wellbeing online hub to provide additional support until June 2023 for all of the more than 130,000 educators in New Zealand, and their whānau.

The hub will provide a range of easily accessible advice, including peer to peer support and some materials specifically developed for the education sector. This is expected to be up and running before the end of this school year and is in addition to other general wellbeing online information provided by the Ministry of Health.

Up to $1m, over three years, to support the wellbeing of the Māori education workforce in Māori medium educational settings.

“The wellbeing package is a direct result of the Accord entered into in 2019 between

NZEI, the PPTA and the Ministry of Education to identify and address issues of mutual interest between the parties, such as workload and wider wellbeing, and commits them to find solutions together.

The package specifics were developed by the Accord partners, working with representatives of school trustees, principals, and kindergartens.

“This package does not replace supports already provided by schools and early learning services. The Government has a further $7 million to support teacher and principal wellbeing on top of today’s announcement.

“The Ministry of Education will work with the Accord partners and Māori medium and Pacific peak bodies in early 2021 to develop further initiatives to be funded out of the remaining funds,” Chris Hipkins said.

TL Bureau, Wellington

facility.

“This new facility will make a real difference to service users, whānau and staff. It will have capacity for around 16 beds and the potential for future expansion to 20 beds.

“There will be flexibility to better meet specific needs, such as young adults and older people. The facility will be more spacious and light with improved whānau spaces, and a safer more therapeutic environment to support recovery.

“Improved health outcomes will reduce re-admissions and demand for sub-acute and community beds.

“Lakes DHB is also committed to strengthening its mental health and addiction services through more integrated primary care and community based acute options, and strong linkages with outreach, home and community services.

“This will mean people can get better and earlier access to services, particularly for at risk groups such as pregnant

mothers, youth, Māori and people with alcohol and drug addictions,” said Chris Hipkins.

Lakes DHB will continue to engage with service users and whānau, along with community based providers and DHB staff, as the project progresses.

“Local iwi have been very involved in the project which will ensure the facility meets the needs of the District’s Māori communities, helping to reduce inequities,” says Chris Hipkins.

“This is important as Lakes DHB, which serves over 110,000 people, has around 35 per cent Māori compared to the national average of 15 per cent.”

Construction of the new facility is due to start in the second half of next year. It is expected to take about two years to complete the build. The Government is providing $25 million in funding for the project with the DHB contributing a further $6 million.

Government confirms new acute mental health facility for Lakes DHB

A new acute inpatient mental health facility at Rotorua Hospital will provide more patient-centred and culturally appropriate care to better support recovery, Health Minister Chris Hipkins says.

“Improving mental health and addiction services remains one of the biggest long-term challenges facing New Zealand,” says Chris Hipkins.

“Lakes DHB’s existing Whare Whakaue 14-bed acute mental health and addictions facility is over 40 years old, in poor condition, and in spite of the dedicated work by staff, is affecting the quality of care delivered, putting people at risk.

“The growing number of people in Rotorua, Taupō and surrounding areas requiring this support deserve better and that’s why I’m pleased to confirm the Government has signed off on the DHB’s business case to replace this

7

IFC Helps Boost Workplace Gender Diversity in Iraq

TL Bureau, Baghdad

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is partnering with two key business associations in Iraq Baghdad’s Chamber of Commerce (BCC) and Erbil’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) to help the country’s private sector create family-friendly workplaces that can attract, retain, and promote more women employees. Women in Iraq are disproportionately affected by job losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, worsening their economic prospects. The female labor force participation rate in Iraq in 2019 stood at just 12 percent, one of the lowest rates in the world.

Under the initiative, the IFCled Peer Learning Platform initiative and its activities, will train key staff at BCC and ECCI member companies in a series of webinars to help support their employees with family-friendly policies and respond to the COVID-19 crisis. The sessions will include knowledge-sharing among participants, lessons from international experts, and successful case studies to encourage the hiring and retention of women

Changes to set us up for the future TL Bureau, Canberra

The government’s JobMaker Digital Business Plan is a critical plank in accelerating the shift to a digital economy and creating the dynamic new jobs we’ll need in the recovery, Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said.

“These changes help set us up for the future. They put Australia on track to be a leading digital economy by 2030 by enabling businesses to access modern digital infrastructure and locking in sensible regulatory reforms that make it easier to do business and create jobs. “Today’s announcement updates outdated regulations that hold back commonsense changes, like letting businesses hold annual general meetings online.

“Crucially, the package will help drive the digitisation of businesses of all sizes, meaning they can take advantage of new technologies to work smarter.

“This is critical because we know that digitally enabled small and medium sized businesses are eight times more likely to create new jobs.

“The pandemic has taught us that many of the old ways of working are outdated, the government is rightly acting to position us for the future.

and boost their representation on corporate boards.

Firas Rasul Jaafar, Chairman of the BCC, stressed the importance of enhancing opportunities for women and promoting gender diversity in the workplace in Iraq. “This is what helps create a productive and equal atmosphere and our partnership with IFC will contribute significantly to reducing the gender gap in the sector.”

“We place gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace at the top of strategic areas of our work at the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry,” said Dr. Dara Khayyat, President of the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “Our partnership with IFC will help reduce the gender gap and scale up women’s roles and contribution to the growth of the Iraqi economy.”

IFC will hold a virtual competition at the end of the initiative, to ensure companies trained have retained the information and showcase their commitments to implement gender parity at their organization levels.

“IFC focuses on supporting Iraq’s private sector in recovering from the current economic crisis and rebuilding more agile and resilient

businesses and workforces,” said Bilal Sugheyer, IFC’s country head in Iraq. “Creating safe, family-friendly and flexible workplaces that allow companies to maximize the contributions and productivity of the country’s workforce - especially those of women - is a critical driver of building resilience in Iraq’s business sector.” The project is part of the Mashreq Gender Facility (MGF), a World BankIFC initiative in partnership with the governments of Canada and Norway, which aims to strengthen the enabling environment for relevant stakeholders to effectively identify and address constraints to women’s economic participation; and improve women’s access to economic opportunities.

The implementing partner in Iraq is the Directorate for the Empowerment of Iraqi Women at the Council of Ministers. The Ministry of Planning and the Directorate for the Empowerment of Iraqi Women at the Council of Ministers represent Iraq on the MGF Steering Committee, and the High Council for Women’s Affairs (HCWA) of the Kurdistan Regional Government is also represented.

TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

potential of 7,700 Gigawatts (GW), equivalent to over 11 times current global installed wind capacity. Fifteen other countries have technical wind potentials over 1,000 GW including Mauritania, Mali, Egypt, Namibia, South Africa, Ethiopia and Kenya.

“This analysis has clearly shown that Africa has world-class wind potential and that wind can play an important role in bringing clean, affordable electricity to millions on the continent,” said Linda Munyengeterwa, IFC’s Infrastructure Director for Middle East and Africa. “Going forward, IFC is committed to working with the public and private sector to help realize Africa’s remarkable, and largely untapped, wind potential.”

The analysis also finds that over one-third of Africa’s wind potential is in areas with very strong winds, averaging greater than 8.5 meters per second.

Seventeen of the countries analyzed have particularly strong wind potential, with average productivity (as measured by

BUSINESS

Recognise an inspiring educator this World Teachers’ Day

• Nominations for the 2021 Commonwealth Bank Teaching Awards are open until 16 October 2020 • Educators can win a $45,000 Teaching Fellowship, which includes a $25,000 project for their school TL Bureau, Parramatta

In the lead up to World Teachers’ Day this Monday 5 October, Commonwealth Bank and Australian Schools Plus are calling for students, parents, and school communities, to put forward a school educator who has been an inspiration through challenging times, as part of the 2021 Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award nominations.

Over the past year, educators across Australia and the world have had to adapt to new ways of working while continuing to engage students with learning. To celebrate and thank teachers and school leaders for their tireless efforts, 2020 World Teachers’ Day

focuses on how educators have led in crisis and reimagined the future.

Nathan Barker, Head of Community Investment at Commonwealth Bank, said: “While this year has brought a lot of uncertainty to the classroom, our Fellows have been able to swiftly reimagine their learning environment and adapt to online and remote learning. It’s remarkable to see the level of care and time they put in to educating our young people. Now more than ever, it’s important to thank and celebrate our great educators and the essential role they play in our lives.”

Applications are open until 16 October, with winners to be announced in March 2021.

Wall Street Closing

TL Bureau, New York

U.S. stocks rose in volatile trading Wednesday.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose 329.04, or 1.2

percent, to 27.781.70.

The S&P 500 index rose 27.53, or 0.8 percent, to 3,363.

The Nasdaq composite index rose 82.26, or 0.7 percent, to 11,167.51.

New Analysis Shows Onshore Wind Potential Across Africa Enough to Power the Entire Continent Many Times Over

Developing Africa’s huge onshore wind energy potential can boost its transition to affordable and reliable clean energy. For the first time ever, wind and solar made up the majority of the world’s new power generation in 2019. A mix of wind and solar energy is not only good for the climate but will help diversify the continent’s energy mix and improve energy security.

A new study for IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, shows that continental Africa possesses a stunning onshore wind potential of almost 180,000 Terawatt hours (TWh) per annum, enough to satisfy the entire continent’s electricity demands 250 times over.

The analysis, carried out by Everoze, finds that 27 countries in Africa have enough wind potential on their own to satisfy the entire continental electricity demand—estimated at 700 TWh annually. Algeria has the highest resource with a total

their “capacity factors”) up to 46 percent, rivalling the most productive onshore wind sites in the world.

“What is surprising is how distributed the wind resource is,” said Sean Whittaker, Principal Industry Specialist at IFC. “By using high-resolution mesoscale wind models and assuming the use of tall, large rotor, modern turbines we see great potential in countries not previously considered to be ‘windy’ places, including Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Botswana, Cameroon and Mozambique.”

Wind is one of the fastestgrowing, cheapest sources of new power generation around the world with over 650 Gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity.

However, installed wind capacity in Africa represents less than 1 percent of this capacity. The analysis reveals a total wind potential on the African continent of over 59,000 GW­­—equivalent to 90 times the current global installed wind capacity.

Ben Backwell, CEO of the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)

said “This important report demonstrates that the studies which have been published until now have significantly underestimated the opportunity that wind energy represents for Africa. There is a clear need now for governments to enact policies to take advantage of the vast resource that the report identifies and enable large scale investment in wind as a key building block for green economic recovery post COVID–19.”

IFC worked in collaboration with Everoze, Vortex and GWEC to conduct the analysis. Everoze drew on high-resolution mesoscale data from the Global Wind Atlas (www.globalwindatlas.info) and applied basic constraints for technical restrictions (i.e. slopes, elevation, minimum wind speed, land use cover) and basic environmental restrictions (i.e. population density, protected areas).

IFC and GWEC will host a joint Webinar on October 5 to disseminate and discuss the key findings of the analysis.

8

FEATURE

Never too late to fight back against pandemic

By Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, DG, WHO

One million people have now been lost to COVID-19 and many more are suffering because of the pandemic.

This milestone is a difficult moment for the world but there are glimmers of hope that encourage us now and in the near future.

Just nine months on from the virus first being identified, some of the best scientists in the world have collectively developed tests to diagnose cases, identified treatments like corticosteroids to reduce mortality in the most severe cases of COVID-19, and produced vaccine candidates that are now in final phase three trials.

While we await further breakthroughs, we have seen that the virus can be effectively contained through the application of tried and tested public health measures.

Many countries have driven an all-of-government, all-ofsociety response. With the right preparedness infrastructure in place, they were able to act early to contain outbreaks before transmission got out of hand.

Thailand has a well-resourced

medical and public health system. Informed by the best available scientific advice, and a trained and committed community health workforce, Thai authorities acted decisively to suppress the virus, to build trust and to increase public confidence. Italy was one of the first countries to experience a large outbreak outside China, and in many ways was a pioneer for other countries. Learning from the Wuhan experience, Italy put strong measures in place and was able to reduce transmission and save many thousands of lives. National unity and solidarity, combined with the dedication and sacrifice of health workers, and the engagement of the Italian people helped bring the outbreak under control.

Although the Americas has so far been the most-affected region, Uruguay has reported the lowest number of cases and deaths in Latin America, both in total and on a per capita basis. This is not an accident.

Uruguay has one of the most robust and resilient health systems in Latin America, with sustainable investment based on political consensus on the importance of investing in public health.

Pakistan deployed the

infrastructure built up over many years for polio to combat COVID-19. Community health workers who have been trained to go door-to-door vaccinating children against polio have been redeployed and utilized for surveillance, contact tracing and care. This has both suppressed the virus and, as the country stabilizes, the economy is also now picking up once again. Reinforcing the lesson that the choice is not between controlling the virus or saving the economy; the two go handin-hand. There are many other examples including Cambodia, Mongolia, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Rwanda, Senegal, Spain, Vietnam and more. Many of these countries learnt lessons from previous disease outbreaks of SARS, MERS, measles, polio, Ebola and flu to hone their health system and respond to this new pathogen. But the key lesson is the same: no matter where a country is in an outbreak, it is never too late to turn things around. There are four essential steps that all countries, communities and individuals must focus on to take control the epidemic. First, prevent amplifying events. COVID-19 spreads very efficiently among clusters of people.

Second, reduce deaths by protecting vulnerable groups, including older people, those with underlying conditions and essential workers. Third, individuals must play their part by taking the measures we know work to protect themselves and others – stay at least one metre away from others, clean your hands regularly, practice respiratory etiquette, and wear a mask. Avoid the “three Cs”: closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings.

And fourth, governments must take tailored actions to find, isolate, test and care for cases, and trace and quarantine contacts. Widespread stay-athome orders can be avoided if countries take temporary and geographically-targeted interventions.

The 75th session of the UN General Assembly provides a moment for the world to come together to reflect on the past year and to forge a collective way forward. This is critical, because this public health emergency of international concern needs a global solution.

The global economy is expected to contract by US$7 trillion in 2020 as a result of the pandemic. Only by tackling it together, will lives and livelihoods be restored.

Launched in April this year, the Access to COVID19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator is the only global initiative offering a solution to speed up the end of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With the largest portfolio of COVID-19 tools in the world, investing in the ACTAccelerator increases the probability of being able to access the “winning candidate” and hedges the risk that countries that have already entered individual bilateral agreements end up with products that are not viable.

It needs US$35 billion to meet the goal of developing new tools and producing and delivering 2 billion vaccine doses, 245 million treatments and 500 million diagnostic tests over the next year. That’s just 1% of what G20 governments have already committed to domestic economic stimulus packages.

While today’s milestone gives us pause for reflection, this is a moment for us all to come together, in solidarity, to fight back against this virus. History will judge us on the decisions we do and don’t make in the months ahead. Let’s seize the opportunity and bridge national boundaries to save lives and livelihoods.

the beneficiaries, who will also pay their own utility bills. High standards for construction— including energy efficiency and environment protection—will be featured.

Eighty per cent of the new residents will be IDPs and 20 per cent will be from the original population of Kramatorsk and Sievierodonetsk. The towns were selected for the

project due to high influx of IDPs –50,000 and 40,000 respectively – representing about one third of the preconflict population of each city.

“When we fled our home, a priest gave us a village house for free. But another 16 people already lived there.

It was basically a hut with just one table, one oven and one bathtub. I was already pregnant with my second child, and we lived in the hallway, where there no place to put the second crib. So, we moved to a flat, the cheapest one we could find, which the wind blew right through,” explained one displaced woman from Luhansk Region, eastern Ukraine, who shared her story in an anonymous IOM survey.

“If we want to work towards a dignified and prosperous future for conflict-affected communities, we must complement our relief and recovery support with interventions that stem from

our deep understanding of the long-term impact of protracted displacement,” said Anh Nguyen, Chief of Mission at IOM Ukraine.

“Not only will these new apartment buildings provide homes for the needy, the initiative also represents a significant boost to urban development of Kramatorsk and Sievierodonetsk and a positive socio-economic signal for the entire region,” he added.

As many as 60 per cent of displaced people live in rented accommodation, and 17 per cent stay with relatives or host families.

IOM has been working in Ukraine since 1996 and has scaled up its response since 2014. It has assisted over 514,000 vulnerable IDPs and people in need in 24 regions of Ukraine, providing them with humanitarian aid, livelihood grants, and opportunities for community development and social cohesion.

New Homes Planned for Ukraine’s Displaced TL Bureau, Kyiv

On Tuesday (15/09), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is announcing details of a new project to provide modern and affordable housing to over 1,500 people in Ukraine’s conflict-affected east. These apartments and houses will be located in the towns of Kramatorsk (Donetsk Region) and Sievierodonetsk (Luhansk Region). They will shelter 500 families.

Over the six years of protracted displacement in the country, caused by the conflict which erupted in 2014, IOM has recorded thousands of cases of displaced individuals and families for whom safe housing remains a pressing need. The latest IOM survey, conducted between April and June this year, revealed that only 11 per cent of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine own their homes.

The EUR 22.1 million, five-

year project, funded by the Government of Germany through KfW Development Bank, envisages both new construction and renovation of existing housing units, work to be implemented by IOM in cooperation with the Government of Ukraine and municipal authorities.

The housing units will require affordable rent payments from

9

life and real estate

UNWTO AND FAO TO WORK REGIONAL EVENTS TOGETHER ON DEVELOPING TOURISM IN FULL SWING FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT TL Bureau, Madrid

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the two agencies work together to advance shared goals relating to the sustainable and responsible growth of rural tourism.

In leading the sector’s response to COVID-19 and now guiding the global restart of tourism, UNWTO has been working closely with fellow UN agencies from the start of the current crisis. This new MoU comes on the back of World Tourism Day 2020, which was celebrated worldwide around the special theme of Tourism and Rural Development. Under the agreement, UNWTO and FAO will build a framework for enhanced collaboration, including through the sharing of knowledge and resources.

UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Memorandum of Understanding between UNWTO and the FAO emphasises the cross-cutting nature of tourism and the importance of cooperation at every level to ensure the sector works for everyone. Both tourism and agriculture are lifelines for communities around the world.

The agreement is particularly timely as it comes as we recognize 2020 as the year of Tourism for Rural Development. This was also the theme of World Tourism Day, which we celebrated this week, highlighting the role tourism must play in providing opportunities for rural communities and driving social and economic recovery.”

Resilience, innovation and opportunity A central aim of the collaboration will be to increase the resilience of rural communities against social and economic shocks through growing tourism and making it both more sustainable and inclusive. Across the FAO’s GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems) network of communities, tourism is a leading driver of equality, with the sector employing women and youth and giving them a stake in economic growth. Tourism is also a protector of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes many of the communities within the GIAHS network, for instance through keeping folklore and other traditions alive for future generations. This Memorandum of Understanding between UNWTO and the FAO emphasises the crosscutting nature of tourism and the importance of cooperation at every level to ensure the sector works

IOM to Investigate Reports of Sexual Abuse and Exploitation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo TL Bureau, Geneva

The International Organization for Migration is gravely concerned by reports published in the media yesterday of sexual exploitation and abuse of women by aid workers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the Ebola crisis.

In light of these reports, IOM’s Director General is ordering an immediate investigation by the Organization including an assessment of the serious allegation against an IOM worker.

Such abuses by UN personnel and other humanitarian workers are an outrageous breach of trust with those we are mandated to support, often in very trying humanitarian circumstances.

IOM is determined to investigate and eradicate these shocking abuses wherever and

whenever they occur including in this particular instance.

As an Organization we work constantly to improve our systems to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse, with strengthened reporting tools, staff trainings, and awareness raising across the Organization.

Because victims of abuse are sometimes reluctant to come forward, we are committed to improving our reporting mechanisms to ensure confidence in the system and that victims are fully aware that they can report such allegations without fear of retribution. IOM is fully committed to supporting the immediate and longer-term needs of victims, including their access to legal, health and psychosocial support.

The safety and protection of those whom we serve and our staff and partners is a critical priority for the organization.

for everyone.

A central aim of the collaboration will be to increase the resilience of rural communities against social and economic shocks through growing tourism and making it both more sustainable and inclusive. Across the FAO’s GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems) network of communities, tourism is a leading driver of equality, with the sector employing women and youth and giving them a stake in economic growth. Tourism is also a protector of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes many of the communities within the GIAHS network, for instance through keeping folklore and other traditions alive for future generations.

Moving forward, the new MoU states that UNWTO and FAO will work together to establish a plan for more specific areas of collaboration. Key priorities, as outlined in the agreement, include encouraging entrepreneurship within rural communities, particularly among youth and women, with the aim of providing them with access to both local and global markets for their products.

Other priorities include fostering education and skills so as to provide communities with opportunities within the tourism sector.

TL Bureau, Adelaide South Australians have every reason to celebrate, with a long weekend ahead and regional events in full swing.

A month-long festival kicks off today in the Limestone Coast, as Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations returns for 2020. The largest festival of its kind in the region, it boasts a program of over 60 events across five weeks, showcasing the wine region’s signature red wine, cabernet sauvignon.

Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations is supported by the South Australian Tourism Commission, through its Regional Events & Festivals Program, which provides financial and marketing assistance to events that generate an increase in visitation to the state’s regions.

South Australian Tourism Commission chief executive Rodney Harrex said it was fantastic to see one of the Limestone Coast’s major events back on the 2020

calendar. “Following a series of postponements earlier in the year, event organisers across the state have had the challenging task of reimagining their events and festivals to bring them back in a COVID-safe way,” said Mr Harrex.

“The return of Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations is not only a coup for event organisers but an absolute win for the Limestone Coast, to help drive visitation to the region not just this long weekend and school holidays, but all of October.” “With plenty of accommodation providers in the Limestone Coast now signed up to be part of the SATC’s Great State voucher scheme, it’s brilliant timing for any South Australian heading to the festival to make their regional visit, a staycation.”

Like many events scheduled for 2020, the Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations program has been adapted to ensure that capacity limits and other COVID restrictions can be safely managed.

UN Agencies Hail Milestone As Over 1000 Asylum Seekers Relocated From Greece So Far This Year Through EU Initiative

TL Bureau, Athens, Brussels, Geneva

The Government of Greece, together with IOM, the International Organization for Migration, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and UNICEF, the UN Children’s Fund today (30-09) welcomed the relocation of 139 asylum seekers to Germany, which has brought the total number of people relocated from Greece to other European Union (EU) Member States through a European Commission-funded programme this year to over 1,000.

This was the 16th relocation flight organized under the EU programme implemented by IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF in cooperation with the Government of Greece through the Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Children, and in close collaboration with the European Asylum Support Office (EASO). This year, a total of 1,066 asylum seekers have been relocated from Greece to Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg and Portugal.

Among the group that arrived safely in Germany today were families with children with special health needs and 53 unaccompanied children, 37 of whom had been transferred to the Greek mainland after multiple fires completely destroyed the Moria reception and identification center three weeks ago. “We feel grateful for the people that helped us in Greece and we’ll never forget them. We don’t speak German, but we’ll try hard to learn the language. My brothers live in Germany and I’m excited that I’ll see them again after such a long time,” said Lina Hussein from Syria who travelled today

with her husband, Osman, and her sons, Yousef and Mohammad.

Since the tragic fires at Moria, IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF have worked together with the financial support of the European Commission and leadership of the Ministry of Migration and Asylum’s Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Children to move 724 unaccompanied children from the islands to the mainland in anticipation of their relocation to other European States. All children have been settled in temporary facilities run by IOM and partners on the mainland where support is provided in line with EU standards.

10

Sustainability and legacy at the core of Milano Cortina 2026

TL Bureau, Lausanne

IOC President Thomas Bach welcomed the members of the Commission, which is chaired by Sari Essayah. They were joined by Milano Cortina 2026 and Italian National Olympic Committee President Giovanni Malagò and Milano Cortina 2026 CEO Vincenzo Novari. The Commission heard from representatives of the Organising Committee founders, including the President of the Italian Paralympic Committee, Luca Pancalli; Mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala; Mayor of Cortina Gianpietro Ghedina; and President of the Lombardy Region Attilio Fontana; while an address was also delivered on behalf of the President of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaia. The representative of the Italian Government, Valerio Toniolo; the President of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Arno Kompatscher; and the President of the Autonomous Province of Trento, Maurizio Fugatti, also addressed the Commission.

Speaking after the meeting, Essayah said: “Milano Cortina 2026 has made considerable progress despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.

The integration of Olympic Agenda 2020 and the New Norm into the project, particularly around the use of existing venues, will

The first International Olympic Committee (IOC) Coordination Commission meeting with Milano Cortina 2026 was held virtually today, 29 September 2020. The local Organising Committee updated the Commission members on its considerable progress since winning the right to host the Olympic Winter Games last year and its desire to deliver sustainable Games with a strong legacy in the spirit of Olympic Agenda 2020 and its New Norm. provide a sustainable legacy for both international sport and local communities within Italy. We are only at the beginning of our journey and, while there are still many key decisions to be taken, I hope that these Games will be held up as an example for future Olympic Winter Games.” She continued: “The Olympic Movement is unified in supporting the Organising Committee to realise its ambition to deliver a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave behind a legacy for generations of Italians to enjoy. The solid foundations that Milano Cortina 2026 has built are testament to the cooperation and collaboration of the Olympic and local stakeholders which shows

Durban wins bid to host World Table Tennis Championships in 2023 TL Bureau, Cape Town

The first-ever World Table Tennis Championships is coming to Durban in 2023 and to the African continent for the first time since 1939.

The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) on Monday said Durban won 90 votes (69.77%) to beat off competition from the other candidate city, Düsseldorf, Germany, which won 39 votes (30.23%). The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has since expressed gratitude to the South Africa Table Tennis Board (SATTB) President Joe Carrim for working with the KwaZuluNatal government, eThekwini municipality and other key role players during the bidding process.

“I know that in the beginning, it was extremely difficult but through your determination, you have managed to pull this off.

“On behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I wish to personally salute all role players who have been involved in this important national project,” Dube-Ncube said. She thanked government and Premier Sihle Zikalala and the entire provincial

cabinet for the guidance throughout the bidding process.

“With Durban being selected as the next host city, we flatter ourselves to believe that this is because South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal, in particular, have in the past proved to be worthy and competent hosts of a number of national, continental and international events of diverse interests.”

Dube-Ncube said the province is overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response and interest that has been shown by the sport-loving community from across the globe.

“The people of KwaZuluNatal cannot wait to welcome international and national visitors during the World Table Tennis Championship in 2023.”

The MEC said they are excited that the championship will become one of the most important and “a mustsee event” in the global calendar.

“Equally, we congratulate Germany, the country that has hosted the event on six previous occasions, including twice in the past eight years.”

Carrim said winning the bid took a great deal of effort and commitment from all parties and the reward was a combined effort and that the hard work to ensure it is a success starts now.

that we truly are stronger together.”

Following this, Milano Cortina 2026 President Giovanni Malagò said: “I am delighted to welcome IOC President Thomas Bach and the Milano Cortina 2026 Coordination Commission, brilliantly chaired by Sari Essayah. I am deeply grateful for their words and the continual support they provide towards our efforts. This was our first meeting, albeit virtual, after being awarded the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games at the IOC Session. Along with the staff headed by Vincenzo Novari, during these difficult months we have been working to shape the Organising Committee and these Italian Games through an innovative and sustainable

approach. We are aware of the many important challenges yet to come, but we are ready to face them as a team, with the IOC and the Milano Cortina 2026 stakeholders, in order to deliver an unforgettable edition of the Games.”

One of the major milestones praised by the Coordination Commission was the adoption, by the Italian Parliament, of an Olympic Law which dictates the organisation and governance of Milano Cortina 2026. The Commission also heard about the development of Milano Cortina 2026 staffing, with over 50 employees now working for the organisation, many of whom hold existing expertise in winter sports events. This topic gave the Organising Committee an opportunity to detail its planned staffing model, which will see the core Organising Committee team consist of around 600 people, with four decentralised departments established to focus on Governance, Games Delivery, Digital and Revenues.

In addition, the development of Milano Cortina 2026’s Games vision was covered. This underpins its strategy right up until Games time, revolving around its desire to “Make all Italians fall in love with the Games and winter sports, and the world to fall in love with Italy”.

SPORTS

NFLNFLPA STATEMENT ON TITANS AND VIKINGS FACILITIES TL Bureau, California

​ n Tuesday morning, the O Titans COVID testing results returned three new player positives and five new personnel positives. The Titans will suspend in-person club activities starting today.

Likewise, the Vikings, who played the Titans on Sunday, will also suspend in-person club activities.

Both clubs are working closely with the NFL and the NFLPA, including our infectious disease experts, to evaluate close contacts, perform additional testing and monitor developments.

All decisions will be made with health and safety as our primary consideration. We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.

JESSE COLLINS NAMED EXECUTIVE PRODUCER OF THE PEPSI SUPER BOWL LV HALFTIME SHOW

​ ollins Joins Roc Nation To Helm Pepsi Super C Bowl Halftime Show on February 7, 2021​

TL Bureau, New York

The National Football League(NFL), Roc Nation and Pepsi announced today that acclaimed Emmy® Award nominated producer Jesse Collins has been named an Executive Producer of the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show, taking place in Tampa, Florida on Super Bowl Sunday, February 7, 2021.

Collins joins Executive Producers Roc Nation following one of the most groundbreaking Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime performances in years, which starred the incomparable stars Jennifer Lopez and Shakira. He joins long time award-winning Pepsi halftime show director, Hamish Hamilton.

“Jesse Collins is innovative, creative and one of the only executive producers that speak fluent ‘artist vision.’ He’s a true artist,” commented Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter. “Jesse’s insight

and understanding create both extraordinary shows and true cultural moments. After working with Jesse for so many years, I look forward to all there is to come.”

From CBS’ special John Lewis: Celebrating A Hero to the Grammy Awards to helming the BET Awards, Jesse Collins, Founder & CEO, Jesse Collins Entertainment, has played an integral role in producing many of television’s most memorable moments in music entertainment and has grown his company into one of the most premiere fullservice production companies in Hollywood. Beginning with a solid foundation in music and variety specials, his company has set the stage for hundreds of truly unforgettable moments in awards show history with the BET Awards, BET Hip Hop Awards, BET Honors, Black Girls Rock!, Soul Train Awards, ABFF Honors, Dear Mama, UNCF: An Evening of

Stars and Love & Happiness: An Obama Farewell among others.

“It is an honor to be a part of such an iconic show at such an important time in our history,” said Jesse Collins, Founder & CEO, Jesse Collins Entertainment. “I am grateful to JAY-Z, Desiree Perez, the entire Roc Nation family and the NFL for granting me this opportunity.”

“We are excited to have Jesse Collins join with Roc Nation to executive produce the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show,” said Brian Rolapp, Chief Media and Business Officer, NFL. “We look forward to our fans experiencing a memorable performance as part of the culmination of our 101st season.”

JAY-Z’s appointment makes Collins the show’s first ever Black executive producer.

Jesse Collins is repped by CAA and Morris Yorn Barnes Levine Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner & Gellman.

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tech/auto

LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021: Leading Lights of Global Design Selected as Judges and Mentors Star-studded lineup of judges and mentors to support up-and-coming creators for a Better Tomorrow

TL Bureau Tokyo

Lexus today announced its complete high-powered lineup of judges and mentors for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021, a global platform to support and nurture the next generation of creators. Lexus is delighted to welcome two more design celebrities to the 2021 judging panel: leading young Chinese architect Dong Gong and Greg Lynn a highly influential American architect and CEO of Piaggio Fast Forward a robotics company. Dong, who recently became a member of the French Academy of Architecture, has earned international acclaim for his creative works, including the well-known Seashore Library in China. Lynn is internationally recognized for using technology to reimagine the relationship of architecture and design with society. His wide-ranging works bring various interdisciplinary fields into an interconnected space where he can harness technology to experiment and innovate.

They join the panel’s returning judges: the esteemed design influencer Paola Antonelli, senior curator in the Department of Architecture and Design of New York’s MoMA, and Simon Humphries who heads Toyota &

Lexus Global Design.

Using Lexus’ three key design principles, Anticipate, Innovate and Captivate as judging criteria, the judging panel will seek to identify next generation talent as they evaluate the entries based on how well they employ these principles to build a Better Tomorrow. Joining as a judge for LEXUS DESIGN AWARD for the first time, Dong Gong

young designers who focus on tomorrow. Now more than ever, there are so many challenges for design to address including social inequity, economic instability, climate crisis and a health pandemic so I am sure to be inspired. This will be a case where the pleasure will be all mine.”

Finalists receive a priceless experience as the mentors provide direct, interactive guidance in developing prototypes that bring the mentees’ ideas to life for the final judging. This year’s newest mentor is the artist and designer Sputniko!, whose innovative video and multimedia installations address technology’s impact on society. She joins the team of Joe Doucet, Mariam Kamara and Sabine Marcelis who will mentor the six finalists chosen from worldwide entries.

The prototypes of the six finalists’ ideas will be displayed at the finale of LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021, scheduled to be held in April 2021. A single Grand Prix winner will be selected after finalists present their prototypes and ideas to the judging panel at the event under the eyes of global media and guests.

Entries for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021 will be accepted until October 11.

commented “I think the most exciting thing to be a juror will be I have the chance to see designs by young designers and especially not only limited to architecture field but also includes all the other areas of the design, it’s about a process of engagement and interaction.” Greg Lynn added “I am happy to join the jury for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD as I am certain to learn

a great deal from the vision and values of the participants, from the insight of the mentors, and from the perspectives of the other members of the jury. I have followed the award in the past and am impressed by the ability to connect design with cultural challenges. It is exciting to be involved with a program dedicated to discovering, mentoring and awarding talented

TL Bureau, Munich.

At the end of September 2000, the modern MINI enjoyed its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show.

The successful relaunch of the traditional British heritage brand introduced a completely new category of vehicle and laid the foundation stone for continuous development and diversity in the model range.

Collaborative The MINI – for 20 years the original in Pieces of Art with the premium segment of small cars.

Yohji Yamamoto

TL Bureau, Sant’Agata Bolognese,

Super sports car brand Automobili Lamborghini is to announce in late October a groundbreaking collaboration with Yohji Yamamoto, the eponymous brand of the worldrenowned fashion designer.

The collaboration come together by blending Lamborghini’s perspective of adhering to the brand’s tradition and DNA while looking ahead to the future and constantly innovating to adapt to the times, and Yohji Yamamoto’s unwavering stance since debuting with his Paris collection in 1981 that clothing manufactured to embody philosophies and aesthetics which challenge the status quo. The passion

and craftsmanship of these two forces merge and create iconic pieces of art.

An original celebrates a landmark anniversary. 20 years ago, the MINI was presented for the first time ever in a public arena at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris. A unique success story in the automobile sector commenced with the relaunch of the traditional British heritage brand under the umbrella of the BMW Group and the presentation of the models MINI One and MINI Cooper. As the successor to the classic Mini, which ceased to be produced just a few days later after 41 years, the second generation provided all the enablers for another revolution in the small car segment. The MINI was the first premium vehicle in this class.

Its modern concept has promoted continuous advanced development to the present day, encompassing driving fun, efficiency, comfort, safety, connectivity and not least model diversity.

A journey through time with an early example of the MINI Cooper provides an ideal opportunity to get on the track of the pioneering character exhibited by the second generation. The ambassador from the initial phase of the British original for the 21st century rolled off the assembly line in October 2001, six months after production had been launched at the MINI plant in Oxford. Three previous owners already experienced loads of driving fun as they powered along some 175,000 kilometres.

And like every MINI, it was given a name. This model was dubbed “Sunny”, inspired by the paint finish for the body in Liquid Yellow, which transformed it into a rarity. In the first year of sales for the modern MINI in Germany, only one in every fifteen vehicles was supplied in this colour. The combination with a roof and door mirror caps in Black was even rarer.

The starting signal for the development of the second generation of the MINI was already given in July 1994.

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world

166 arrested in international crackdown against crime in Southeast Europe

TL Bureau, The Hague

A total of 34 countries teamed up last week to combat organised and serious international crime originating from Southeast Europe as part of joint action days (JAD). The four-day operation supported by Europol was aimed at tackling illegal immigration and the trafficking of firearms and drugs, which are key priorities of the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT).

The operation brought together: • EU Member States: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden.

• Non-EU Member States: Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ukraine, United States.

• EU Agencies: Europol, Eurojust, Frontex • International and institutional partners: INTERPOL, UNODC,

PCC-SEE, CCWP, PA/2019 countering serious and organised crime in the Western Balkans, SEESAC. 8838 law enforcement officers were involved in the operation and included police officers, land, sea and air border guards and customs agents.

Big hit against illicit trafficking During the span of the action week, more than 39 000 individuals and 44 000 vehicles were checked at cross border locations and in suspected hotspots for criminal trafficking.

These controls and investigations have led to the following arrests in several European countries: Firearms trafficking or illegal possession of firearms: 17 Migrant smuggling or illegal immigration: 73 Drug trafficking: 37 Firearms and drug trafficking: 7

Jüri Ratas at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence: Estonian defence expenses continue to be increased

TL Bureau, Tallinn

Stenbock House, 30 September 2020 – According to Prime Minister Jüri Ratas, who gave an opening statement at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence, Estonia will not make, under any conditions, compromises on the expense of strengthening national defence.

For that purpose, the proportion of defence expenses is increased in the next state budget, comprising 2.29% of the GDP. “Today, the government will submit the budget with defence expenses increased to 645 million euros to the Riigikogu. We are maintaining the course that we have held since 2012, investing at least 2% in defence expenses. As a border state of NATO and the European Union, Estonia cannot make compromises in security,” Prime Minister Ratas stressed at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence (ABCD).

As for the issue of strengthening the society and defence in the light of the crisis, Ratas considers it important to look at national defence in its comprehensive entirety, paying attention to internal security and a culture of preparedness in the whole society. “Combating the coronavirus pandemic required an inclusive

approach and provided a challenge for the entire society. Unfortunately, there will always be crises that affect the society. Therefore, it is important to expand our preparedness for crises and make our authorities and enterprises more crisis-proof: in other words, to enhance our overall culture of preparedness,” Ratas said.

According to Ratas, this budget includes important investments into internal security and compilation of emergency stocks. With the state budget for 2021, the state continues to create an emergency reserve for the Police and Border Guard Board and strengthen our maritime and aerial capabilities. Next year, the state will contribute 45 million euros into strengthening the national security of supply, and establish a centre for supplies to centralise all resources for population protection.

The prime minister believes that the coronavirus crisis proved how important international cooperation can be. “The best thing to do is to act in unison and in a coordinated manner. The cooperation among institutions of the European Union and the Member States could have been better in the beginning of the crisis. For example, closing the borders raised the issue of military mobility.

Document fraud: 12 International arrest warrant: 1 Other crimes not related to the JAD: 19 In addition, investigators seized 51 weapons of different types and 47 kilograms of a variety of drugs.

Operational set up The EMPACT Firearms – led by Spanish Civil Guard (Guardia Civil) coordinated the operation with the support of Europol. The framework for the JAD consisted of databases crosschecking to help advance investigations, operational analysis, the exchange of information and real time communication and checks. During the course of the operation, Europol set up a virtual coordination centre to enable daily briefings and support the exchange of intelligence among the participants.

Throughout the action days, law enforcement intensified

surveillance and controls at selected border-crossing points.

The high-risk areas were identified following an upstream work of information gathering and analysis between national law enforcement authorities, Europol and the institutional partners.

Several countries also carried out inland criminal investigations and activities in relation to the trafficking of weapons and explosives. Commenting on this operation, the Lieutenant of Guardia Civil, Pedro García Vazquez said: As action leader for this international JAD implemented in the framework of the EU Policy Cycle/EMPACT operation, Spain and of course my agency Guardia Civil is tremendously pleased with the results achieved.

Law enforcement agencies are prepared to fight organised crime internationally by conducting high impact operations, despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, and citizens can be confident that we continue to pursue and innovate in criminal investigations.

This operation shows the results we achieve when national law enforcement authorities across Europe, EU agencies such as Europol and Frontex, and international agencies such as

INTERPOL and the United Nations work together.

The Head of Europol’s Serious Organised Crime Centre, Jari Liukku, added: “Criminals from the South East Europe region are increasingly expanding their network of influence. Europol is committed to working closely with this region and supporting an international coordinated and mutually supportive approach for tackling serious and organised crime. This operation is an outstanding success and exemplifies this strong law enforcement cooperation.” In 2010 the European Union set up a four-year Policy Cycle to ensure greater continuity in the fight against serious international and organised crime. In 2017 the Council of the EU decided to continue the EU Policy Cycle for the 2018 - 2021 period. It aims to tackle the most significant threats posed by organised and serious international crime to the EU. This is achieved by improving and strengthening cooperation between the relevant services of EU Member States, institutions and agencies, as well as non-EU countries and organisations, including the private sector where relevant. Drug trafficking, illicit firearms trafficking and facilitation of illegal immigration are one of the priorities for the Policy Cycle.

the German formula for success Federal and state governments are calling on everybody in Germany to continue to rigorously respect distancing and hygiene measures, and to help contact tracing by providing the correct contact data. The general “AHA” formula, the German acronym for distancing, hygiene measures, and face coverings, is to be joined by two more recommendations as temperatures drop and numbers of new cases rise: “C” which stands for “Use the Corona-Warn-App” and “L” which stands for “air rooms”.

People are often dismissive about airing rooms, but it might be one of the cheapest and most effective ways of containing the spread of the pandemic, explained the Chancellor.

In addition to mandatory face masks, the recording of contact data in places like restaurants is to be monitored in future. If anyone leaves false information, they will in future face a minimum fine of 50 euros. Restaurants are called on to run plausibility checks, to ensure that their contact lists are complete and correct.

Continuing the testing strategy

The German government will be continuing its testing strategy. In particular, it is to be ascertained to what extent appropriate rapid tests can be used. The new quarantine regulations for travellers arriving in Germany are to be put into practice as swiftly as possible.

To prevent the health system becoming overstretched over the winter months, out-patient clinics for patients with fever, dedicated consulting hours and dedicated medical practices are to be used.

Parallel to this, high-risk groups in particular should be vaccinated against influenza to prevent any potentially highly dangerous double infection.

Hot spot strategy to be further developed Federal and state governments agree that immediate clamp-downs at local level are needed to address any regional rise in numbers of new cases.

The federal states are to ensure that in districts or towns where a cumulative seven-day total of over 50 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants is reached, immediate restrictions are imposed with the involvement of the relevant state authorities.

Working together to prevent uncontrolled outbreaks

TL Bureau, Berlin

Federal and state governments intend to take swift, regionally appropriate action in order to keep the number of new COVID-19 infections down. “But we know that difficult times lie ahead as we move into the autumn and winter months,” underscored Chancellor Angela Merkel after a video conference with the state premiers of the sixteen federal states. Rising numbers of new cases are giving grounds for concern, but we know that we can counter this trend by taking the right measures, said Angela Merkel. That is why the meeting today considered what messages to send to people in Germany. “We all know that we can only enforce measures if the people are willing to follow the rules and do their bit to prevent the further spread of the pandemic.” There was clear agreement that “We have priorities: we want to keep the economy going, and we want children to be able to go to school and nursery as far as possible.” AHA + C + L –

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