The Life News Singapore. Sept 1, 2020

Contact us for advertisement at thelife.advertisement@outlook.com.au thelifenews.com.au, thelifenews.co

News from World, Worldwide readership.

Vol. 02 Issue 33 Sep. 01, 2020

New Lebanon PM named as French President Macron visits Beirut

TL Bureau, Beirut/Paris

individuals, injured thousands and caused far reaching harm that left countless individuals without a home. Macron has been in direct contact with Lebanese authorities since his first visit two days after the blast, encouraging solidified government officials to go to a political comprehension to go through clearing changes and end many years of debasement and fumble, which drove the nation into its most profound ever financial emergency.

On Monday, the French president was welcomed by his Lebanese partner, Michel Aoun, at Beirut air terminal.

He is likewise because of visit amazing Lebanese artist Fairouz later on Monday.

French President Emmanuel Macron has shown up in Lebanon for his second visit since a gigantic blast at the capital’s port recently shook the nation and recharged tenacious calls for political change.

His appearance in Beirut on Monday evening for a twoday visit came hours after Lebanese pioneers named negotiator Mustapha Adib as the new executive assign, requesting that him structure a legislature in the wake of the past organization’s abdication following the August 4 blast.

The blast that tore through Beirut executed at any rate 190

1

NEW EDITIONS COMING

2

WE ARE ALMOST THERE

3

EXPANDING MORE COUNTRIES

4

MORE BENEFITS TO WORLDWIDE BUSINESS WITH LESS PRICE ADVERTISEMENT AND MORE REACH WORLDWIDE

5

MORE COUNTRIES, MORE READERS, MORE TRUST

Australia Singapore UK South Africa

Sudan signs historic 2 killed, 7 injured in peace deal Damascus strike, Syria

TL Bureau, Juba

The momentary government in Sudan concurred Monday to consent to a notable harmony arrangement with five significant agitator bunches in a significant advance to end rough clashes coming from the authority of previous tyrant Omar al-Bashir.

The force sharing government marked the arrangement in Juba, which furnishes the dissidents with political portrayal and financial and land rights.

Supporters trust the understanding will help mend Sudan following quite a while of battling under al-Bashir, who was eliminated from power over a year back. He is needed for atrocities during the Darfur strife in 2003 and is being investigated for the 1989 overthrow that put him in power.

Several thousands kicked the bucket in battling in Darfur in the mid 2000s. The Christian-larger part

TL Bureau, Damascus

south in the end split from Muslimlion’s share Sudan in 2011 after a common war.

Not all resistance gatherings, nonetheless, have agreed with the administration.

The Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North has shrugged off the possibility of including Darfur warlord Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo in the new government and part of the Sudan Liberation Army, driven by Abdel-Wahid Al-Nur, is likewise waiting.

Two Syrian officers were killed and seven others harmed in Israeli airstrikes that hit Damascus and its air terminal Monday night, Syrian news offices said.

The Syrian Arab News Agency detailed that “Israeli air hostility” around 10:20 p.m. on Monday was gone up against by hostile to rocket safeguard frameworks. Rockets were terminated from An israeli area in the Golan Heights, the news office revealed. The rockets seemed to focus on the field outside the city just as the universal air terminal, where a Hezbollah usable was slaughtered in July during a prior Israeli airstrike.

Israel has propelled various rocket assaults on Syria in the previous barely any months, with Israelis highlighting Iranian military

gatherings, including Hezbollah, fabricating a base in the country torn by common war.

The Israeli armed force propelled rockets into Syria from the Golan Heights prior in the month, in reprisal for reports of Syrian staff planting touchy gadgets close to the fringe of the contested region.

Hezbollah Secretary General Hassan Nasrallah promised to

murder Israeli soldiers in reprisal for the passing of the Iranian authority on July twentieth, Israel military authorities said.

In April, the Times of Israel detailed that Israel had propelled another arrangement of rocket assaults into Damascus. Guard Minister Naftali Bennett declared an arrangement to remove Iranian soldiers in Syria.

OCLC 1101190095

2

N

ew COVID-19 cases in the United States declined to around 35,000 on Sunday - the most reduced figure in over seven days - and the public all out outperformed 6 million on Monday, as per information from Johns Hopkins University.

Examination at the college’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering demonstrated 35,300 new cases, a decay of around 12,000 from the earlier day and the most minimal oneday figure since Aug. 23.

Authorities, nonetheless, have recently noticed that Sunday figures are regularly lower because of some idle announcing cross country.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 6.002 million cases and 183,100 passings in the United States, as per Johns Hopkins information.

The public loss of life Sunday was under 430, the least single-day absolute in about a month.

In Minnesota, the increasing inspiration rates in a few areas are disturbing the White House Coronavirus Task Force. New cases rose by about 2,000 throughout the end of the week, and Saturday saw one of the state’s most noteworthy single-day aggregates to date.

On a visit Sunday, team facilitator Dr. Deborah Birx told columnists the numbers demonstrated a “troubling pattern” and forewarned that carelessness could hamper endeavors to control the infection.

“Regardless of whether it’s a wedding, whether it’s a burial service, whether it’s a birthday celebration, whether it’s only a Sunday evening supper where we united our family from over the city and we’re sitting in the terrace, in the event that you don’t have a veil on and somebody is inside six feet, infection spread can and will happen,” she said.

Aside from Minnesota, different states in the Midwest like Indiana, Kentucky, Iowa, North Dakota and South Dakota have seen late floods in cases - and record passings were recorded in Hawaii, Idaho and Oklahoma.

COVID-19 still not controlled worldwide

In Iowa, there were almost 1,000 new cases, as per state wellbeing authorities. The state arrived at the midpoint of in excess of 1,100 the earlier week.

Iowa’s seven-day normal was the most elevated in the country per 100,000 inhabitants, as estimated by the Harvard Global Health Institute.

Gov. Kim Reynolds said a factor in the higher figures is that the state has started including results from quick reaction antigen tests, which has recognized more cases.

In North Dakota, wellbeing authorities on Sunday raised the quantity of cases statewide to a record-high, very nearly 2,500. It has arrived at the midpoint of almost three dozen new cases for every 100,000 inhabitants over the previous week, second just to Iowa.

Fabulous Forks, N.D., Mayor Brandon Bochenski has requested bars in the city to close at 11 p.m., refering to “the exponential increment” in cases among inhabitants between the ages of 20 and 29.

“I’ve generally been and consistently will be a hero for business, singular opportunity and moral duty,” Bochenski said. “Nonetheless, the ongoing spike has come to the heart of the matter where restricting the open doors for mass assemblages of individuals nearby other people has gotten essential.”

India announced in excess of 78,500 instances of the coronavirus for the second day straight on Monday, constraining it to broaden a suspension on universal business air travel until the finish of September as

the world’s second-most crowded nation battles to contain COVID-19.

India’s Office of the Director General of Civil Aviation reported the expansion to the air travel suspension that was initiated in March, expressing it won’t influence worldwide payload tasks.

The announcement clarified some booked flights may proceed dependent upon the situation as India has inked manages a few nations, including the United States, Britain, France and Germany, to make alleged air pockets to take into account worldwide travel, The Times of India revealed.

The suspension, which will go on until in any event Sept. 30, was declared hours after the Ministry of Health announced 78,512 new instances of COVID-19.

The new every day figure for the nation with 1.3 billion individuals was the most announced by any country on Monday and came a day after it set a world precedent

editorial

for most cases revealed by a nation in a 24-hour time span with 78,761. The past record had been 77,255 set by the United States on July 16.

India’s Monday count is a continuation of an exponential development in cases it has been looking since its first contaminations were analyzed in late January.

Kumar Sanjay Krishna, boss secretary of the hardhit northeastern territory of Assam, gave three explanations behind the climbing figures: expanding testing, returning of the economy and smugness.

“It has been seen that individuals are not following prudent advances and are disregarding the COVID conventions,” he said on Twitter, notice that there will be “obvious exacting activity” taken against the individuals who abuse social removing rules or neglect to wear veils out in the open beginning from Monday.

“We demand residents to follow COVID-19 conventions, in any case exacting move will be made against violators,” the Assam Police Department affirmed in an announcement.

The Ministry of Health clarified in an explanation that 70% of the new cases were from the seven conditions of Maharashtra at 21%, Andhra Pradesh at 13.5%, Karnataka at 11.27%, Tamil Nadu at 8.27%, Uttar Pradesh at 8.27% and West Bengal and Odisha each liable for about 4%.

Correspondents & Bureaus contacts worldwide Contact us if you have any story worldwide

aus@thelifenews.com.au : Aus nz@thelifenews.com.au : NZ, Fiji & Oceania sg@thelifenews.com.au : Thai, Malaysia, Singapore india@thelifenews.com.au : India SriLanka Nepal usa@thelifenews.com.au : US, Canada & Mexico uk@thelifenews.com.au : UK & Ireland russia@thelifenews.com.au : Russia, Ukraine, Belarus & CIS estonia@thelifenews.com.au : Estonia, Latvia & Lithuania swiss@thelifenews.com.au : Switzerland, Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, Netherland finland@thelifenews.com.au : Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark

FOR LETTER TO EDITOR AND SUGGESTIONS PLEASE REACH US AT thelife.editorial@outlook.com.au Address of Publisher :( Australia & Singapore editions)

The Life (Digital & Print), Dr. M. Parveen, 127 Aberdeen Parade, Boondall 4034, Australia+61 (7)31913325, Email : thelife.editorial@outlook.com.au (For UK edition) , 27 Old Gloucester Street, London, WC1N 3AX. United Kingdom (For South Africa Edition) N5 Sturdee Avenue Suite 301 RoseBank. Johannesburg, Gauteng 2196 South Africa for advertisement contact manager at thelife.advertisement@outlook.com.au (For US Edition - Coming soon) The life News LLC- (IDAHO) US 784 S Clearwater Loop STE B, Post Falls, ID 83854, USA

3

world

Wildfire Forces 2,400 to Evacuate in Spain’s Andalusia TL Bureau, Barcelona Around 2,400 people have been evacuated due to a wildfire that is out of control and ravaging Spain’s southern region of Andalusia, authorities said Sunday.

According to AP, the blaze broke out on Thursday in the mountains near the town of Almonaster la Real, 120 kilometers (75 miles) northwest of the city of Seville.

It has already scorched 90 square kilometers (35 square miles).

Twenty-four planes and one helicopter helped some 450 people

including firefighters and army emergency personnel, who worked through Saturday night to tackle the fire.

The wind dropped during the night, making their task a little easier, but crews are struggling to access all affected areas because of the rugged ground, officials said.

A further 70 people were evacuated Saturday because of a blaze in Mula, a small town in the southeastern region of Murcia, while firefighters are also trying to extinguish two wildfires in the western region of Extremadura.

South Sudan President receives Sudan PM

Slovakia National Day

TL Bureau, Juba

TL Bureau, Washington DC

General Silva Kiir Miardet, President of the Republic of South Sudan, received at his office in Juba today Dr. Abdullah Hamdok, Prime Minister of the Republic of The Sudan, currently visiting his southern neighbor.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed issues of mutual concern, topped by the signing of peace agreement between Sudan government and the Revolutionary Front scheduled for tomorrow in Juba. Dr. Hamdok thanked President Miardet for his government’s sponsoring the negotiations and to the mediation team, led by South President’s Advisor for Security Affairs Tot Gulwak.

Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I congratulate the people of the Slovak Republic as you celebrate Constitution Day. The United States and the Slovak Republic have a strong history of cooperation and partnership. Our shared values and the democratic principles enshrined in both our constitutions provide the foundation upon which is built our common path that leads to greater prosperity, security, and stability for both of our countries.

I look forward to continuing to build our strong relationship as friends, partners, and Allies in the years to come.

Kyrgyz Republic Independence Day

TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I send best wishes to the people of the Kyrgyz Republic as you celebrate the 29th anniversary of your independence.

The United States values the Kyrgyz Republic as a partner in

advancing our mutual goals in the region. Since your independence, we have supported the Kyrgyz Republic’s efforts to develop its economy and build a dynamic civil society with over two billion dollars in assistance. Our support has continued during the current global pandemic, with the United States providing over four million dollars in COVID-19 specific

Antonio Guterres: UN technical team Morocco access to SAFER oil tank is essential reports

TL Bureau, Riyadh

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of addressing the growing danger of SAFER floating oil tank in the Red Sea off the coast of Hodeidah.

SAFER contains more than a million barrels of crude oil, which could cause a serious environmental, economic and humanitarian catastrophe if the Iranian-backed terrorist Houthi militia continued to pose obstacles to the UN technical team.

OIC Condemns Targeting of Passengers at Abha Airport with a Bomb-Laden UAV

TL Bureau, Jeddah

The General Secretariat of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) condemned in a statement today, the targeting of passengers and workers at Abha International Airport with a bomb-laden UAV launched by the terrorist, Iran-backed Houthi militia. The Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen managed to intercept and destroy it.

OIC Secretary-General, Dr.

Yousef bin Ahmed Al-Othaimeen, praised the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen’s vigilance, which managed today to intercept and destroy the bomb-laden UAV launched by the terrorist Houthi militia, expressing his strong condemnation and denunciation of the terrorist acts committed by that terrorist militia, and those who supply it.

The Secretary-General affirmed the organization’s support for the coalition’s statement.

Certain comments by Vitold Fokin do not reflect the official position of the Ukrainian delegation in the Minsk TCG - Andriy Yermak

TL Bureau, Minsk

Certain comments made in an interview by Deputy Head of the Ukrainian delegation to the Minsk Trilateral Contact Group Vitold Fokin do not reflect Ukraine’s official position.

This was stated by Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak. According to him, most of the positions expressed

by Vitold Fokin, in fact, reflect the provisions of the first and

assistance. We remain firmly committed to supporting the Kyrgyz Republic’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

The United States looks forward to deepening our cooperation over the coming year. I congratulate the people of the Kyrgyz Republic as you celebrate your nation’s independence.

second Minsk agreements.

“Let’s separate the personal position from the position of the delegation. Vitold Fokin has just joined the negotiation process and is getting a sense of the issue. Today the Ukrainian party is trying to mitigate or apply exclusively within the national interests of Ukraine some odious and ambiguous formulations, which for some reason the previous government agreed to,” Andriy Yermak said.

He stressed that the amnesty could not apply to those who committed war crimes, took hostages, tortured and killed prisoners, were engaged in human trafficking, participated in the financing of terrorism and committed some other serious crimes. The Head of the President’s Office also noted that the Minsk agreements and the proposals of the Ukrainian delegation to finalize the bill on the peculiarities of local

self-government in ORDLO do not provide for a special status for the whole of Donbas - only for the temporarily occupied areas. “There are clear red lines, which have been repeatedly outlined by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Therefore, the position of the Ukrainian delegation in the Minsk TCG is fully in line with the national interests of Ukraine,” Andriy Yermak stressed.

self-seeded pine trees from the two-hectare area of wet and dry heathland.

The petroleum storage depot is set within the Holt and West Moors Heaths Site of Special Scientific Interest, where the lack of human disturbance has made the area a haven for some of the UK’s rarest reptiles including sand lizards, adders and smooth snakes.

Without proper management, heathland will develop into scrub

and woodland, losing the huge diversity of plants, invertebrates, birds and reptiles who call it home.

With the invasive trees now removed, ecologists can better support a wide range of heathland species including heathers, reptiles and invertebrates such as the silverstudded blue butterfly.

Defence Minister Jeremy Quin said: Defence has a key role to play in the Government’s green agenda

and are proud to be the custodians of 169 Sites of Special Scientific Interest, covering over 80,000 hectares. This project is another fantastic example of how wildlife and the environment can thrive under our stewardship.

Ecologists from the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), who run the depot, worked with ARC over five weeks to remove the pine trees. Every effort was made to ensure the project

new 1343 coronavirus cases TL Bureau, Rabat

Morocco reported new 1343 coronavirus COVID-19 cases over the past 24 hours, bringing to 61399 the number of coronavirus COVID-19 cases, authorities said.

The Ministry of Health of Morocco said it recorded 33 death tolls to bring to 1111 the number of fatalities of the disease while the number of recoveries increased to 46355.

Mali reports 16 new COVID-19 Cases TL Bureau, Bamako

Mali recorded 16 new confirmed cases of Novel Coronavirus (Covid 19) during the past 24 hours, In a statement today, Mali’s Ministry of Health said that the total number of Novel Coronavirus cases in the country reached 2,757, while the number of deaths reached 126 deaths.

Russia’s Coronavirus Infection Tally Climbs to near One Million TL Bureau, Moscow

Russia reported 4,980 new coronavirus cases on Sunday, pushing its confirmed national tally up to 990,326, Reuters reported.

Authorities said 68 people had died of COVID-19 over the last 24 hours, raising the official death toll to 17,093.

Defence ecologists boost rare heathland habitats

TL Bureau, London

Some of the UK’s rarest reptiles have been given a safe haven on a military site in the heart of Dorset as part of the MOD’s drive to create a sustainable estate where wildlife can flourish.

Volunteers and staff from the West Moors Defence Fuels site teamed up with the Amphibian and Reptile Conservation (ARC) charity and Dorset County Council to remove

was cost-effective, as well as environmentally friendly. The only cost to the MOD was a chipper to chip and remove the pine trees. The chipping company who chipped and removed the pine trees on site were based in the local area, thus limiting the carbon footprint.

DIO ecologists previously worked with ARC at other MOD sites and as a result of their strong relationship, ARC undertook this project voluntarily.

4

world

India’s maintains its high Recovery COVID-19 blog, 31 August: Rate: total Recoveries cross 27 lakh two new positive test results have been added in the past 24 hours

TL Bureau, New Delhi

With more patients recovering and being discharged from hospitals and home isolation (in case of mild and moderate cases), India’s COVID-19 total recoveries have crossed 27 lakh today.

Recovery of 27,13,933 patients has been made possible because of effective implementation of the Centre conceived and led policy of TESTING aggressively, TRACKING comprehensively through timely surveillance of close contacts,& TREATING effectively through a widening medical care infrastructure across the country.

With the recovery of 64,935 cases in the last 24 hours, India’s Recovery Rate amongst the COVID-19 patients has improved to 76.61% and is demonstrating a continuous progress. The number of patients recovering is on a steady rise over the past several months.

TL Bureau, Tallinn

The number of recoveries in India today exceeds the active cases by 3.55 times.

India has posted nearly 19.5 lakh (19,48,631) recoveries more than the active cases (765302, which are under active medical care).

The record high recoveries have ensured that the actual caseload of the country viz. the active cases, continues to decline and currently comprises only 21.60% of the total positive cases. This has aided the fast widening gap between the number of patients

recovered and the active cases.

Timely and effective clinical management of the patients in critical care through a slew of holistic measures has been instrumental in keeping the Case Fatality Rate low and on a steady downward trajectory. It has further dipped to 1.79% today.

For all authentic & updated information on COVID-19 related technical issues, guidelines & advisories please regularly visit: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/ and @MoHFW_INDIA.

UAE Condemns Houthi Attempt to Target Abha Airport TL Bureau, Abu Dhabi The UAE has condemned the Iranian-backed Houthi terrorist militia’s attempt to target Abha International Airport in Saudi Arabia using an explosive drone, which was intercepted by Arab Coalition forces on Sunday, Emirates News Agency reported.

In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the UAE reiterated its full solidarity with Saudi Arabia against

Brazil Reports 566 Coronavirus Deaths on Sunday TL Bureau, Rio de Janeiro

Brazil registered 566 additional coronavirus deaths over the past 24 hours and 16,158 new cases, the Health Ministry said on Sunday evening, Reuters reported.

The nation has now registered 120,828 deaths attributed to the novel coronavirus and 3,862,311 confirmed cases.

Egypt strongly condemns targeting of TL Bureau, Cairo

The Arab Republic of Egypt has expressed its strong condemnation of the terrorist Houthi militia targeting of Abha International Airport with a bomb-laden UAV launched by the terrorist Houthi militia.

all threats to civilians, affirming its support for all measures taken by Saudi authorities to preserve the safety and security of its citizens and residents.

MoFAIC also affirmed that the security of the UAE and that of Saudi Arabia are indivisible, and any threat facing the Kingdom is considered a threat to the security and stability of the UAE. “The continuation of such attacks demonstrates the danger the Houthi coup poses to the region and further illustrates this militia’s aim to undermine regional security and stability,” it added.

The last 24 hours have seen a total of 228 initial tests being analysed in Estonia in relation to the SARS-CoV-2 virus which causes COVID-19, with two new positive test results being added.

Based on the data in the population register, both of the new positive test results came from Harju County, and one of the two was from Tallinn.Two new individuals were added to the outbreak which is being monitored by the northern regional department The Health Board’s northern regional department is also monitoring a case of group infection which now involves eight people in total. Two of the positive test results from the period of 29-30 August were due to those involved attending the event in Ülemiste City.

The outbreak began at a club event in Ülemiste City on 21 August which was attended by an individual who had returned from Spain the day before. On 22 August, the coronavirus test

result for the person who had travelled from Spain turned out to be positive; on the same day, the Health Board’s northern regional department contacted those people who had been in the company of the infected individual and asked them to self-isolate. Seven close contacts have now tested positive for coronavirus. The Health Board has notified Ülemiste City of the event. The Health Board would like to remind everyone that any individuals who are arriving into Estonia from countries in which the risk of being infected with coronavirus is higher must self-isolate for two weeks and monitor their health. Attending any social gatherings in this time is strictly prohibited. People who are waiting for their coronavirus test results must also self-isolate. If a healthcare worker has decided to test an individual, there is always a valid reason.

The Health Board’s northern regional department is monitoring more than 400 close contacts, of whom seventy individuals have fallen ill.

Germany’s Confirmed Coronavirus Cases Rise by 610 to 242,381

TL Bureau, Berlin

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Germany increased by 610 to 242,381, data from

the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) for infectious diseases showed on Monday, Reuters reported. The reported death toll rose by three to 9,298, the tally showed.

is a need for it in the event of a mass influx of migrants.

In addition, the project will prepare provisions on enlisting support from the European Asylum Support Office (EASO).

In the event of a mass influx of migrants, the Asylum Support Office could be asked to send support teams consisting of officials from other EU countries to Finland.

Provisions on the administrative implementation of the procedure should be laid down in an act. The need to lay down the provisions stems from a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council. The project will begin on 31 August 2020 and end on 30 June 2021. The government

proposal is due to be submitted to Parliament in spring 2021.

Finland has improved its preparedness in recent years A mass influx of migrants is a situation in which reception centres for asylum seekers, including additional accommodation, are reaching maximum capacity and there is a constant influx of new migrants, with more arriving than leaving the country.

Such a situation may arise gradually or abruptly, because of the massive displacement of people from a country towards Finland, for example.

At the moment, there is no expectation of a similar situation in the near future as that which occurred in 2015.

Development of legislation contributes to preparedness for mass influx of migrants

TL Bureau, Helsinki

The Ministry of the Interior launched a project on 31 August to prepare legislative amendments that will contribute to planning for a possible mass influx of migrants.

The need for change has been identified in the development work that the authorities have been carrying out since 2015 to improve their preparedness for large numbers of asylum seekers.

The aim of the project is to make the reception act more explicit by clarifying the coordination of national and regional preparedness. The Finnish Immigration Service, operating under the Ministry of the Interior, is responsible for the reception

system for asylum seekers, which serves as the basis for managing a mass influx of migrants. In such an event, the Finnish Immigration Service has the lead in operational responsibility in this respect.

Therefore, provisions on its coordinating role and tasks should be laid down in an act too.

The Act on the Treatment of Detained Aliens and on Detention Units would be amended in such a way that, in the event of a mass influx of migrants, persons who are not in a public-service employment relationship could also be temporarily employed for guidance and supervision tasks in detention units. In this way, the detention capacity could also be increased more quickly if there

5

Singapore

Revision of Development Charge Rates TL Bureau, Singapore

The Ministry of National Development has revised the development charge (DC) rates for the period 1 September 2020 to 28 February 2021. The review is carried out on a halfyearly basis in consultation with the Chief Valuer.

The DC rates for Use Groups A (Commercial), B2 (Residential, non-landed), C (Hotel/Hospital), D (Industry) have decreased. The DC rates remain unchanged for Use Groups B1 (Residential, landed), E (Place of Worship / Civic and Community Institution), and 3 other Use Groups F, G and H. (See Appendix 1 [PDF, 192KB] for Table of DC Rates).

The DC rates for Use Group A (Commercial) have decreased by 3.6% on average. 110 out of the 118 sectors have reduction in DC rates ranging from 3% to 7%. Rates are unchanged for the remaining 8 sectors. The largest decrease of 7% applies to the following sectors: • Sector 11 (Shenton Way/ Straits Boulevard/ Marina Boulevard/ Raffles Quay)

• Sector 12 (Bayfront Area/ Marina Bay Sands) • Sector 41 (Cairnhill Road/ Orchard Road/ Somerset Road/ Exeter Road/ Buyong Road/ Cavenagh Road) • Sector 42 (Scotts Road/ Orchard Road/ Orchard Boulevard/ Bideford Road/ Nutmeg Road/ Mount Elizabeth/ Claymore Road The DC rates for Use Group B2 (Residential, non-landed) have decreased by 0.8% on average. 34 out of the 118 sectors have reduction in DC rates ranging from 2% to 3%.

Rates are unchanged for the remaining 84 sectors. The largest decrease of 3% applies to the following sectors: • Sectors 53 to 59 (Jalan Besar/ Lavender Street/ Kallang Bahru/ Bendemeer Road/ Upper Boon Keng Road/ Geylang Bahru/ Serangoon Road/ Balestier Road/ Tessensohn Road/ Race Course Road/ Thomson Road/ Mandalay Road) • Sectors 72 to 75, 78 to 79 (Alexandra Road/ Prince Charles Crescent/ Delta Road/ Jalan Bukit Ho Swee/ Zion Road/ Kim Tian Road/

Tiong Bahru Estate/ Outram Road/ New Bridge Road/ Kampong Bahru Road/ Telok Blangah Rise/ Bukit Purmei Road/ Lower Delta Road/ Jalan Bukit Merah) • Sector 80 to 88 (Lower Delta Road/ Kim Tian Road/ Jalan Bukit Merah/ Alexandra Road/ Tiong Bahru Road/ Redhill Road/ Lengkok Bahru/ Leng Kee Road/ Ayer Rajah Expressway/ Depot Road/ Telok Blangah Road/ Henderson Road/ Telok Blangah Way/ Mount Faber/ West Coast Highway/ Keppel Bay/ Labrador Nature Reserve) • Sector 92 (Guillemard Road/ Mountbatten Road/ Old Airport Road/ Dunman Road/ Tanjong Katong Road/ Haig Road/ Geylang Road) • Sector 101 to 103 (Aljunied Road/ Paya Lebar Road/ Jalan Eunos/ Macpherson Road/ Geylang Road/ Guillemard Road/ Sims Way/ Hougang Avenue 3/ Upper Paya Lebar Road/ Bartley Road/ Braddell Road/ Marymount Road/ Thomson Road)

• Sector 111 (West Coast Highway/ Clementi Road/ Commonwealth Avenue/ Alexandra Road/ Labrador Villa Road) The DC rates for Use Group C (Hotel/Hospital) have decreased by 7.8% on average.

116 out of the 118 sectors have reduction in DC rates ranging from 4% to 15%. Rates are unchanged for the remaining 2 sectors. The largest decrease of 15% applies to the following sectors: • Sector 3 (Hill Street/ Victoria Street/ Seah Street/ Beach Road/ Ophir Road/ Nicoll Highway/ Esplanade Drive/ City Hall Area) • Sector 5 (Nicoll Highway/ Suntec City Area/ Ophir Road/ Raffles Avenue/ Promenade Area) • Sector 6 (Collyer Quay/ Fullerton Road) • Sector 11 (Shenton Way/ Straits Boulevard/ Marina Boulevard/ Raffles Quay) • Sector 12 (Bayfront Area/ Marina Bay Sands) • Sector 41 (Cairnhill Road/ Orchard Road/ Somerset Road/ Exeter Road/ Buyong Road/ Cavenagh Road)

• Sector 42 (Scotts Road/ Orchard Road/ Orchard Boulevard/ Bideford Road/ Nutmeg Road/ Mount Elizabeth/ Claymore Road) • Sector 43 (Tanglin Road/ Cuscaden Road/ Orchard Boulevard/ Grange Road) The DC rates for Use Group D (Industry) have decreased by 0.9% on average. 52 out of the 118 sectors have reduction in DC rates ranging from 2% to 3%.

Rates are unchanged for the remaining 66 sectors.

The largest decrease of 3% applies to the following sectors: • Sector 99 (Pasir Ris/ Loyang/ Changi Area) • Sector 100 (Tampines Road/ Hougang/ Punggol/ Sengkang Area) • Sector 114 (Boon Lay/ Jurong West/ Pioneer/ Tuas/ Sungei Kadut/ Choa Chu Kang/ Lim Chu Kang Area) • Sector 115 (Mandai/ Woodlands/ Sembawang/ Yishun Area) • Sector 116 (Jurong Island) There are no changes to the Use Groups Table and the Geographical Sector maps.

e-Payment Learning Journey and 14 Pre-School Teachers Recognised at the Seniors Go Digital Activity Pack 9th Mother Tongue Languages Symposium to further help seniors go TL Bureau, Singapore

TL Bureau, Singapore

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (“IMDA”) launched the Seniors Go Digital programme to help seniors embrace digitalization so that they can lead more engaged, informed and fulfilling lives. IMDA and the SG Digital Office (“SDO”) are on track to reach out to and raise the skills of 100,000 seniors

by Mar 2021.

Through one-on-one help and small group learning sessions at the more than 30 SG Digital community hubs islandwide, SDO’s Digital Ambassadors have helped seniors pick up skills such as using smartphones to communicate online and access government digital services.

95% of the seniors who received training were satisfied with the sessions, and about 80%1 continued to apply the digital skills they have picked up in their everyday lives.

More support for seniors efforts to go digital To further support seniors in their digital learning, IMDA and SDO will be introducing e-Payment Learning Journeys for seniors.

This thematic learning journey helps seniors who are keen to learn how to use e-payments in a more enjoyable and engaging way, via live demonstrations and hands-on experiences. IMDA has

The Seniors Go Digital programme has made good progress, with more than 16,000 seniors benefitting from the programme since it was launched in May 2020.

also collaborated with corporate partners to roll out the Supermarket Learning Journey, to guide seniors in using commercial apps such as the FairPrice app to make purchases in NTUC FairPrice stores. These skills complement the growing number of hawker stalls that have adopted e-payment capabilities to improve productivity and competitiveness.

To encourage seniors to continue their learning journey and better keep track of their progress, each senior will receive a Seniors Go Digital Activity Pack for them to collect stamps to redeem for prizes by completing the learning activities. Stamps can be used to redeem prizes such as cooler bags, mugs and reusable containers.

In addition, IMDA’s Mobile Access for Seniors scheme for low income seniors, which was rolled out to complement the Seniors Go Digital programme, has benefitted more than 800 low income seniors with smartphones and data plans.

Minister for Education, Mr Lawrence Wong, launched the 9th Mother Tongue Languages Symposium (MTLS), which took the form of an e-MTLS, on Saturday, 29 August 2020.

OUTSTANDING PRESCHOOL MOTHER TONGUE LANGUAGE AWARD 14 dedicated pre-school teachers were recognised as recipients of the annual Outstanding Pre-school Mother Tongue Language Award (OPMTL) - seven received the Outstanding Award and another seven received the Merit Award.

The award recipients (see Annex) were selected from a total of 84 nominations. The OPMTL Teacher Award – jointly presented by the Committee to Promote Chinese Language Learning (CPCLL), the Malay Language Learning and Promotion Committee (MLLPC), and the Tamil Language Learning

and Promotion Committee (TLLPC) – recognises the contributions of our pre-school teachers in making the learning of MTLs engaging and in nurturing a love for languages among pre-school children. The selection panel for the award recipients comprised nine experienced pre-school educators and academics, who conducted online lesson observations and interviews with the teachers as part of the selection process this year.

HIGHLIGHTS OF E-MTLS The MTL Symposium is an annual event co-organised by the Ministry of Education, CPCLL, MLLPC, and TLLPC. Into its ninth year, the Symposium continues to bring together schools and the community in sharing their collective efforts in promoting our MTLs through creative and engaging programmes.

A highlight of this year’s Symposium was the live panel discussion titled “Creating an Immersive Environment for the

Learning of Our Mother Tongue Languages”. The discussion was moderated by Minister of State for Education, Ms Sun Xueling, with Minister Wong as one of the panellists. Panellists shared their expert views and experiences as well as tips on ways to create an immersive environment for the learning of MTLs within our homes and in the community.

Parents and educators also had the opportunity to participate in this panel discussion. The e-MTLS featured a virtual gallery with 35 exhibits set up by schools and various partners on practices, platforms and programmes related to the learning of MTLs. There were also 18 sharing sessions by education experts, celebrity parents and renowned speakers on creative ways to inspire children to learn MTLs. An Online Quest featuring eight interactive task-based games will be made available in November 2020 on the e-MTLS website.

Final Reminder To Employers To Ensure Workers Undergo Routine Testing By 5 September TL Bureau, Singapore As part of the safeguards to ensure the safe restart of work, workers staying in dormitories, workers in the Construction, Marine and Process sectors and personnel who go into the work sites are required to undergo Rostered Routine Testing (RRT) every 14 days. By the deadline of

5 September, all workers who are required to undergo RRT must have completed a swab test in the preceding 14 days and started their 14-day RRT cycle. Workers who have not done so will have their AccessCode Status reflected as Red under the “Health Status” and will not be able to return to work. To date, around 1,500 employers (8%) have yet to log into the Health

Promotion Board’s Swab Registration System (SRS) to schedule their workers for their RRT. In total, 62,000 workers who need to undergo RRT have not yet been scheduled, a significant reduction from the 102,000 workers from a week ago. We remind these employers to quickly schedule appointment slots for their workers to avoid disruption to their business operations.

6 Notice by MRT Corp

Traffic Announcement: CONTINUATION OF LANE CLOSURES BY STAGES AND INTERMITTENTLY ALONG JALAN KUALA SELANGOR (KM456.05) (KEPONG-BOUND AND SUNGAI BULOH-BOUND) Date: 1 September – 30 September 2020 Time: 10:00 pm – 5:30 am

Traffic Announcement: INTERMITTENT LANE CLOSURE AT LEBUHRAYA DAMANSARAPUCHONG (KEPONG BOUND) Date: 1 September 2020 – 14 September 2020 Time: 10:00 pm – 6:00 am

CONTINUATION OF SLIP ROAD CLOSURE TO JALAN KUALA SELANGOR FROM LEBUHRAYA DAMANSARA PUCHONG (SUNGAI BULOH-BOUND) Date: 1 September 2020 – 30 September 2020 Time: 10:00 pm – 6:00 am

CONTINUATION OF LANE CLOSURES ALONG PERSIARAN JATI, DUKE2 & MRR2 AT JALAN KUALA SELANGOR Date 1 September 2020 – 30 September 2020 Time: 10:00 pm – 6:00 am

MALAYSIA & NEARBY

7

Asian Stocks Fall

TL Bureau, Beijing

Asian stock markets gave up early gains Monday after Wall Street turned in its fifth straight weekly gain.

The Shanghai Composite Index rose 0.8% to 3,428.07 after a survey showed growth in manufacturing held steady in August at the previous month’s rate. But it later fell back, shedding 0.2% to 3,395.68.

The Nikkei 225 in Tokyo advanced 1.1% to 23,139.76, rebounding from heavy selling Friday. The Hang Seng in Hong Kong slipped to 25,292.81 while the Kospi in Seoul retreated 1.2% to 2,326.17. Sydney’s S&PASX 200 was little-changed at 6,074.30.India’s Sensex opened up 0.5% but then retreated, losing 0.6% to 39,220.21. New Zealand, Jakarta and Singapore also retreated, AP reported.

Ombudsman’s Insurance Inquiry sees surge in small business surveys TL Bureau, Canberra The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman’s Insurance Inquiry has attracted a huge public response, with more than 700 surveys completed by small businesses so far.

Ombudsman Kate Carnell says small businesses have until Sunday (30 August, 2020) to share their experiences with insurance providers by completing the online survey.

“We’ve had an overwhelming response to this inquiry since we launched it earlier this month, which shows how big an issue insurance accessibility is for small businesses,” Ms Carnell says.

“The feedback we’ve had from small businesses so far has been insightful and concerning, with many small businesses claiming to have been denied insurance outright.

“This is particularly the case for many small businesses seeking public liability insurance, which is essential to continue their

operations.

“We’ve heard from a number of small businesses that have been unable to get insurance for natural disasters.

“Cost has also emerged as a major issue, with many small businesses complaining their insurance premiums have doubled or even tripled in just a few years.

“Over the coming months we will be investigating these claims and examining if small business insurance products are fit for purpose.

“Of serious concern has been the number of small businesses that have had their insurance policies substantially changed, reducing the level of coverage, without their consent and with no refund of premiums. Our inquiry will determine if these practices amount to Unfair Contract Terms.”

Small and family businesses that have experienced difficulties with their insurance provider have until 30 August, 2020, to complete our online survey or email inquiries@ asbfeo.gov.au

FSO - Swiss retail trade turnover rose in July 2020 by 3.4%

TL Bureau, Neuchâtel

Turnover adjusted for sales days and holidays rose in the retail sector by 3.4% in nominal terms in July 2020 compared with

the previous year. Seasonally adjusted, nominal turnover rose by 0.7% compared with the previous month. These are provisional findings from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO).

Benchmark U.S. crude oil gained 12 cents to $43.09 per barrel in electronic trading on the New York Mercantile Exchange. The contract slipped 7 cents on Friday to settle at $42.97. Brent crude, the international standard, rose 22 cents to $46.03 per barrel in London.

The dollar edged up to 105.57 yen from Friday’s 105.55. The euro edged down to $1.1903 from $1.1918.

BUSINESS

Saudi Press: Saudi Aramco Discovers Two New Oil and Gas Fields

TL Bureau, Riyadh

Saudi newspapers highlighted in their editorials today a number of issues at local, regional and international arena.

Al-Bilad newspaper wrote in its editorial titled “Oil and Development” saying that the Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman announced yesterday the discovery of two new oil and gas fields by Saudi Aramco.

The newspaper added that these achievements reflect the keenness of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and HRH the Crown Prince to strengthen the national economy and maximize its resources to meet the qualitative development plans.

The newspaper concluded by saying that one of the important pillars of Saudi oil policy is the leadership’s keenness on stabilizing global markets.

X15 CALLS FOR START-UPS TO HELP YOUNG AUSTRALIANS GET AHEAD

TL Bureau, Parramatta

Applications are now open for x15ventures’ second Xccelerate pitch event, with the winning idea to receive $150,000 in funding from CBA, as well as mentoring and access to world-class resources. x15ventures, a Commonwealth Bank-powered investment vehicle has launched its second Xccelerate pitch event, this time with a focus on helping young Australians get ahead financially.

The virtual pitch event, which will be held on 3-4 November 2020 in partnership with Microsoft, Innovation Bay and KMPG, will once again see start-ups and seasoned entrepreneurs battle it out in front of expert judges to receive $150,000 in funding and ongoing support to grow their business. x15ventures Managing Director, Toby Norton-Smith, said the theme of the upcoming Xccelerate event reflects the need to help young Australians with their finances at a time when they’re facing unprecedented challenges and uncertainty about the future.

“While this is the case for Australians of all demographics, young Australians mostly work in industries that have been severely affected by the coronavirus pandemic, like hospitality and travel, and are less likely to have a sizeable savings buffer to fall back on.

“This is why we’re encouraging start-ups and entrepreneurs to come forward with businesses that could help tackle this challenge, and help young Australians get ahead.

“We’re looking for innovative digital services that support positive financial habits to address daily money management, offer new ways to live in or own a home sooner; or help casual, freelance and gig workers to thrive.

“We’re pleased to be once again partnering with Innovation Bay, Microsoft, KPMG and our new strategic partners Square Peg and Zetta to bring the best and brightest start-ups and entrepreneurs together.” n addition to $150,000 funding from CBA, the winning team will receive targeted advice from x15 and CBA leaders to enhance their business, as well as access to expertise and resources from x15’s strategic partners Microsoft, KPMG, Square Peg and Zetta.

Start-up givvable was named winner

of the inaugural Xccelerate2020 event held in July this year, taking home a total prize value of more than $300,000 from CBA and Microsoft.

They are already working with the x15 team to develop their service further, and pilot with CBA and its business customers.

Applications are now open for the upcoming Xccelerate pitch event until 27 September, with the shortlisted entrants to be notified by 23rd October. For more information and to enter Xccelerate 2020 visit https://innovationbay.com/ xccelerate2020.

About Xccelerate 2020 Xccelerate is a fast-tracked program for experienced entrepreneurs and start-up teams to achieve rapid growth through x15ventures funding and support, including leveraging CBA group assets and strategic partners.

Earlier this year, the program has invited applicants to pitch ideas that would improve the financial wellbeing of small businesses.

family through reliable voice and data access.” Tourism Whitsundays Chief Executive Officer Tash Wheeler said better connectivity is excellent for the region. “The faster guests of

The Whitsundays, in the Heart of the Great Barrier Reef, can access reliable connectivity to upload and share their holidays with family and friends, the more people can admire everything the island has to offer. Social media is a powerful tool in creating awareness for The Whitsundays and encouraging followers to book a holiday to our tropical island paradise,” she said.

Optus customers can now simply ‘pin’ their location via a new crowd sourced network platform on Optus’ website called Network Experience Maps, to raise an issue with the mobile network - such as congestion or an outage – for real time investigation.

Optus coverage lands at Hamilton Island Airport TL Bureau, Whitsundays

Providing coverage for parts of the island for the first time. Optus has switched on a new tower at Hamilton Island Airport, delivering improved coverage and connectivity to the Whitsundays. The tower will provide enhanced network coverage across the airport and the island.

Optus Territory General Manager for North and Central Queensland Dave Morrissey said, “We are continuously looking to increase Optus’ network coverage footprint outside metropolitan areas and offer real choice and competition for residents, with the new site at Hamilton Island Airport being central

to this commitment.”

“We understand the importance for customers to have strong mobile coverage where they are working, living and travelling and this new site will play a key role in helping to facilitate this across the Whitsundays.” “It’s also wonderful to be delivering coverage for the first time to the staff accommodation quarters near the Airport, especially as we recognise their efforts and dedication to creating memorable experiences for locals and travellers across the Island.” “With Queenslanders taking advantage of travelling within the sunshine state at the moment, we know Hamilton Island will be at

the top of many holiday destination lists. It’s great to know that for those visiting and working on the Island, the tower will enable them to stay connected with their friends and

8

FEATURE

In WHO global pulse survey, 90% of countries report disruptions to essential health services since COVID-19 pandemic​

TL Bureau, Geneva

WHO to roll out learning and monitoring tools to improve service provision during pandemic The World Health Organization (WHO) today published a first indicative survey on the impact of COVID-19 on health systems based on 105 countries’ reports.

Data collected from five regions over the period from March to June 2020 illustrate that almost every country (90%) experienced disruption to its health services, with low- and middle-income countries reporting the greatest difficulties. Most countries reported that many routine and elective services have been suspended, while critical care - such as cancer screening and treatment and HIV therapy – has seen high-risk interruptions in low-income countries.

“The survey shines a light on the cracks in our health systems, but it also serves to inform new strategies to improve healthcare

provision during the pandemic and beyond,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “COVID-19 should be a lesson to all countries that health is not an ‘either-or’ equation. We must better prepare for emergencies but also keep investing in health systems that fully respond to people’s needs throughout the life course.”

Services hit across the board: Based on reports from key informants, countries on average experienced disruptions in 50% of a set of 25 tracer services.

The most frequently disrupted areas reported included routine immunization – outreach services (70%) and facility-based services (61%), non-communicable diseases diagnosis and treatment (69%), family planning and contraception (68%), treatment for mental health disorders (61%), cancer diagnosis and treatment (55%). Countries also reported disruptions in malaria diagnosis and treatment (46%), tuberculosis

case detection and treatment (42%) and antiretroviral treatment (32%). While some areas of health care, such as dental care and rehabilitation, may have been deliberately suspended in line with government protocols, the disruption of many of the other services is expected to have harmful effects on population health in the short- mediumand long-term. Potentially lifesaving emergency services were disrupted in almost a quarter of responding countries. Disruptions to 24-hour emergency room services for example were affected in 22% of countries, urgent blood transfusions were disrupted in 23% of countries, emergency surgery was affected in 19% of the countries.

Disruption due to a mix of supply and demand side factors. 76% of countries reported reductions in outpatient care attendance due to lower demand and other factors such as lockdowns and financial difficulties. The most

commonly reported factor on the supply side was cancellation of elective services (66%). Other factors reported by countries included staff redeployment to provide COVID-19 relief, unavailability of services due to closings, and interruptions in the supply of medical equipment and health products. Adapting service delivery strategies.

Many countries have started to implement some of the WHO recommended strategies to mitigate service disruptions, such as triaging to identify priorities, shifting to on-line patient consultations, changes to prescribing practices and supply chain and public health information strategies. However, only 14% of countries reported removal of user fees, which WHO recommends to offset potential financial difficulties for patients.

The pulse survey also provides an indication of countries’ experiences in adapting strategies to mitigate the impact on service

provision. Despite the limitations of such a survey, it highlights the need to improve real-time monitoring of changes in service delivery and utilization as the outbreak is likely to wax and wane over the next months, and to adapt solutions accordingly.

To that end, WHO will continue to work with countries and to provide supportive tools to address the fallout from COVID-19. Given countries’ urgent demand for assistance during the pandemic response, WHO is developing the COVID19: Health Services Learning Hub, a web-based platform that will allow sharing of experiences and learning from innovative country practices that can inform the collective global response. WHO is also devising additional surveys at the sub-national level and in health facilities to gauge the longer-term impact of disruptions and help countries weigh the benefits and risks of pursuing different mitigation strategies.

initiative managed by IFC between donor countries, philanthropic organizations and the World Bank Group whose objective is to facilitate reforms that improve the investment climate in emerging countries.

“As a result of this agreement, pilot tests will be developed with the objective of offering financial products and services specifically designed for Venezuelan migrants, while verifying how they meet the needs identified during the approach stage. Thanks to the use of our physical and digital channels, we will cover some cities where Venezuelan migrants are geographically concentrated, so that we will be able to have a photograph of their needs and behavior of use, ”said Miguel Ángel Charria Liévano, Executive President of Bancamía.

The financial entity has served more than 3,800 Venezuelan migrants: 42% dedicated to service activities, 35% to commerce, 16% transformation, and 7% agricultural.

In the context of the economic crisis caused by COVID-19, supporting micro and small businesses, especially those run by women entrepreneurs, is crucial to promote the integration of immigrants into the economic life of the country.

The project will be carried out remotely to comply with the security protocols implemented due to the pandemic.

“One of the most inspiring aspects of this agreement is its special focus on gender. Half of the new savings and credit accounts derived from this project will be for women. At IFC we are totally convinced that one of the best ways to promote the financial inclusion of migrants is through the empowerment of women who seek a better life horizon for themselves and their families through entrepreneurship.

We are honored and grateful to Bancamía for being part of this alliance in favor of migrants,” said Elizabeth Martínez de Marcano, manager for the Andean Region of IFC.

The International Finance Corporation works with the private sector to identify opportunities for migrants and their host communities in four areas: financial inclusion and promotion of entrepreneurship, delivery of basic services such as education and energy, establishment of policies that promote business creation and learning lessons shared with allies and stakeholders.

About Bancamía Banco de las Microfinanzas Bancamía S.A is an entity created in 2008, which is part of the BBVA Microfinance Foundation Group.

It is the first microfinance bank created in Colombia, with the objective of facilitating access to financial products and services for Colombians with fewer economic resources, with a special focus on microentrepreneurs, who, with their production units, transform their quality of life and the country’s economy. It currently has coverage in 29 departments and in more than 950 municipalities in Colombia.

Visit www.bancamia.com.co

About FIAS The Facility for Investment Climate Advisory Services (FIAS) is a collaboration between donor countries, philanthropic organizations and the World Bank Group whose objective is to facilitate reforms that improve the investment climate in emerging countries to promote competitive markets and sustainable private investments in sectors that contribute to growth and poverty reduction. The FIAS program is managed by IFC. For more information, visit www.thefias.info About We-Fi The Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi) is a collaborative partnership among the 14 governments that have made financial contributions, six multilateral development banks that serve as implementing partners, and other public and private stakeholders. We-Fi was formally established in October 2017 as a Financial Intermediary Fund hosted by the World Bank.

Bancamía and IFC sign cooperation agreement to develop financial products and services for Venezuelan migrants in Colombia

TL Bureau, Bogotá

The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and Bancamía, an entity of the BBVA Microfinance Foundation and the first microfinance bank created in Colombia, signed a cooperation agreement to strengthen the offer of financial products and services to Venezuelan migrants, especially women, with the aim of helping them successfully integrate into the country’s social and economic dynamics.

Promoted by The Women Entrepreneurs Finance Initiative (We-Fi), the agreement contemplates implementing approach tools that allow knowing the needs, challenges, preferences, experiences and aspirations of Venezuelan migrants in everything related to the use of financial and banking services.

The project is supported by Facility for Investment Climate Advisory Services (FIAS), a collaborative

9

A million reasons to fish the Northern Territory!

TL Bureau, Darwin

Australia’s richest fishing competition is back, with registrations now open for Season 6 of Million Dollar Fish (MDF).

This year there are a staggering SEVEN red-tagged barra worth $1 million each swimming around Northern Territory waterways.

That’s right. You have SEVEN times the chance to reel in the biggest catch of your life - the Season 6 Million Dollar Fish, plus the Million Dollar Fish from all the previous seasons. Once any one of the seven Million Dollar Fish are caught, the remaining six revert to $10,000 value.

The previous season’s $1 million tag numbers to look out for include: • S1-MDF1469 • S2-MDF2656 • S3-MDF3556 • S4-MDF4540 and S4MDF4663 • S5-MDF5501 The chance to turn your catch into cash doesn’t end there, with a further 100 red-tagged barra worth $10,000 each. There are also 20 $5,000 purple-tagged barra – win $2,500 for you, and $2,500 for the MDF charity of your choice (Cancer Council NT, Star Ball or the Shimano Junior Indigenous Guide Program through the Hayden &

Reynolds Project).

For the first time ever, MDF has released a new category of tagged fish: the Double Tag Barra. With one released in each MDF fishing location across the Top End (totalling five fish), fishos who catch the Double Tag Barra win $10,000, plus $5,000 for a mate who’s been having a tough time this year.

Registered Season 6 participants who reel in a tagged fish can score even more with the first-ever official MDF shirt. Made in Darwin by BigFish Gear, the limited edition shirt could be your lucky charm – if you’re wearing it when you catch a tagged fish, you’ll land an extra $1,000 of prizes.

By simply registering for Season 6 you also go into the Lucky Prize Pool, with $50,000 worth of prizes from MDF partners up for grabs.

The MDF competition reels in fishing fanatics from all over, and anglers have caught more than 40 tagged fish since the competition began in 2015. The elusive Million Dollar Fish is yet to be landed.

Season 6 starts on 1 October 2020 and runs until 31 March 2021.

You must be registered to claim a prize. Registrations are now open. Register for free at www. milliondollarfish.com.au Quotes from NT Major Events Company CEO, Tim Watsford:

“The Territory is one of Australia’s greatest fishing destinations, and competes easily on the world stage when it comes to incredible fishing experiences. Million Dollar Fish provides even more reasons for people to hit our waterways during the tropical summer.

“Best of all, any type of fisho can win. You don’t need to be a pro angler or own your own gear to take part. Tagged fish are released all over the Territory, so whether you’re fishing from a boat or land, the bluewater or freshwater, on your own or on a charter, you’re in with a chance.

“With seven Million Dollar Fish out there, there’s never been a better time to stay, play and fish our regions, from the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land to the Darwin, Kakadu and Katherine regions.”

Quotes from Million Dollar Fish’s Brad Fanning: “It’s fantastic to see Million Dollar Fish return to the Top End, with registrations now open for Season 6.

“This Season is going to be bigger and better than ever, and with seven $1 million red-tagged barra swimming around, the chances of hooking onto a winner have never been higher.

“Registration for Million Dollar Fish is free, so I’d encourage locals and visitors alike to sign up for the chance to become a millionaire.”

life and real estate

See the beauty of NSW through an artist’s lens: NSW Government supports Streeton

TL Bureau, Sydney

The NSW Government, through its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, is supporting the landmark summer exhibition, with tickets going on sale tomorrow.

Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said Streeton will offer visitors and locals the chance to appreciate the work of one of Australia’s most iconic artists.

“Streeton is a must-see for lovers of Australian spirit, land and history. It is a unique opportunity to see the beauty of NSW through the artist’s lens as some of Arthur Streeton’s greatest works were painted in Sydney, the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury,” Mr Ayres said.

“This exhibition is a reminder of the extraordinary sites and natural landscapes we have in our own backyard, and the perfect reason to visit one of Sydney’s most esteemed cultural institutions, while ultimately helping to rebuild our visitor economy.”

Minister for the Arts, Don Harwin said Streeton will be an unmissable event on the state’s cultural calendar.

“Streeton will feature more than 150 paintings, drawings

Visitors to the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney will have the opportunity to see the beauty of NSW through the lens of iconic Australian Impressionist, Arthur Streeton, whose work captivated the nation from the 1880s to the 1940s.

and watercolours from 42 public and private collections, with some not exhibited for more than 100 years,” Mr Harwin said.

“While it’s been a challenging year, particularly for those in the tourism and arts sectors, the Art Gallery of NSW should be congratulated for their efforts in showcasing and celebrating one of our country’s most renowned artists.”

Art Gallery of NSW Director, Dr Michael Brand, said: “Arthur Streeton is undeniably our greatest Impressionist landscape painter and one who worked from a decidedly international perspective. This exhibition reveals the seminal role he played in defining a unique vision of Australia, while exploring the evolution of his art over six decades.”

Kickstarting economies without COVID-19 plan, ‘a recipe for disaster’: Tedros

TL Bureau, Geneva

“If countries are serious about opening, they must be serious about suppressing transmission and saving lives”, said WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, briefing reporters from Geneva. “Opening up without having control, is a recipe for disaster.”

While this may seem an impossible balance, it can be done if countries are in control of transmission, he said. The more control they have, the more they can open.

The reality is that coronavirus spreads easily, he said. It can be fatal for people of all ages and most people remain susceptible.

Prevention, prevention, prevention To control transmission, he said it is essential to prevent events that lead to outbreaks. COVID-19 spreads efficiently among clusters of people, with explosive outbreaks linked to gatherings at places such as sports stadiums, nightclubs and places of worship.

At the same time, there are ways to hold gatherings safely, Tedros

said. Decisions about how and when must be made with a riskbased approach, tailored to local conditions.

Tedros said countries experiencing significant community transmission may need to postpone such events.

Those seeing sporadic cases or small clusters, on the other hand, can find creative ways to hold events while minimizing risk.

He advocated a focus on reducing deaths by protecting the elderly, people with underlying conditions and essential workers. Countries that do this well may be able to cope with low levels of transmission as they open.

Individuals must play their part by staying at least one metre away from others, cleaning their hands regularly, practicing respiratory etiquette by wearing a mask and avoiding close-contact settings.

For governments, widespread stayat-home orders can be avoided if they take temporary, geographically targeted interventions. It is important to find, isolate, test and care for COVID-19 cases – and both trace

and quarantine contacts.

WHO guidance for safe reopening The UN health agency chief said WHO has a range of evidence-based guidance that can be applied in different transmission scenarios, most recently for hotels, cargo ships and fishing vessels.

Meanwhile, the agency is working with its partners through the ACT Accelerator and COVAX Global Vaccines Facility to ensure that a vaccine, once developed, is available equitably to all communities. He thanked the European Commission, which announced today it would join the COVAX Facility, for its €400 million contribution.

Health systems under pressure

To be sure, all countries are under extreme pressure, he declared. A WHO survey on the impact of COVID-19 on health systems in 105 countries found that 90 per cent of those surveyed have experienced disruption to their health services, with low- and middle-income countries reporting the greatest difficulties.

Most nations reported that routine and elective services have been suspended, while critical care – such as cancer screenings and treatment, and HIV therapies – have seen highrisk interruptions in low-income countries.

While many countries are now implementing WHO-recommended

strategies to mitigate service disruptions, only 14 per cent have reported the removal of user fees, which WHO recommends, offsetting potential financial difficulties for patients.

He said WHO is also developing the COVID-19 Health Services Learning Hub, a web-based platform that will allow countries to share their experiences.

Aftermath of Beirut explosion Tedros also touched on WHO’s response to the 4 August blast in Beirut, which injured 6,500 people, left more than 300,000 homeless and severely damaged health infrastructure.

He said the agency is ensuring access to basic health and mental health care for the injured. It is also expanding COVID-19 testing and treatments, buying medicines and protecting health workers.

To sustain these efforts, Tedros said WHO had launched a $76 million appeal. The WHO Foundation on Monday launched a campaign into which any individual or organization can contribute.

10

BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team ends difficult first Aragón weekend.

TL Bureau, Alcañiz.

After a disappointing Saturday at MotorLand Aragón (ESP), BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team worked hard overnight which saw them make some improvements.

Despite the difficult starting position in Sunday’s race, this progress enabled them to finish in the points. Tom Sykes (GBR) crossed the finish line in 12th, his team-mate Eugene Laverty (IRL) finished in 14th.

Sykes and Laverty started the Superpole Race on Sunday morning from 14th and 18th on the grid. Sykes moved up into 11th place right at the start but was pushed aside in the turmoil entering Turn 8 and was forced to swerve through the gravel.

Unfortunately, he collided with Leandro Mercado (ARG) as he returned to the track, who fell and unfortunately injured himself.

After a disappointing Saturday at MotorLand Aragón (ESP), BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team worked hard overnight which saw them make some improvements. Despite the difficult starting position in Sunday’s race, this progress enabled them to finish in the points.

Tom Sykes (GBR) crossed the finish line in 12th, his team-mate Eugene Laverty (IRL) finished in 14th.

Sykes finished the Superpole Race in 15th place, with Laverty right behind him in 16th. In the second main race on Sunday afternoon, the two riders finished in the points after starting near the back of the grid, Sykes in P12 and Laverty in P14.

This coming weekend sees BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team in action again at the same track, with part two of the FIM Superbike World Championship (WorldSBK) double header at MotorLand Aragón.

Quotes after race two at MotorLand Aragón.

Shaun Muir, Team Principal BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team: “After yesterday’s disappointments the guys worked really hard overnight and I have to thank the whole team for that. The guys went out this morning in warm up and put in a solid session. The Superpole Race was always going to be a

Liman retain title at FIBA 3x3 World Tour Debrecen Masters 2020

problem from that far back, we have not got a lot to fight with on the long straights as we know, and that carried into the race. I think Eugene did well to consolidate some results as his confidence was low after the issue yesterday, so I have to applaud him for his efforts. He buckled down and he can sleep on that and come back stronger next week. With Tom starting from so far back he was getting mixed up with guys that are stronger in other areas than him. I think when Tom had the clear track, and a gap, he could reel off those low 1’51 lap times.

As soon as he got in the company of everyone else, he was in a battle with nothing to fight with so it was quite predictable where he would end up. He could maybe have squeezed into the top 10 but we just wanted to consolidate these results and concentrate on the race here next week.”

Tom Sykes: “It was a shame in the Superpole Race. Chaz Davies made a miscalculation in one corner which pushed me out wide and left me nowhere to go. This is a shame as Tati Mercado got injured in the aftermath which is something you never want to see.

Race two was frustrating, we had certainly had the pace to get away from the guys, but we had those limitations on the straights which undid all the hard work we did in the corners catching them up.”

Eugene Laverty: “The weekend as a whole has been so tough, which I didn’t see coming. Starting down the grid made it difficult, but we just didn’t have the pace.

However, finally today we found what we needed so we were able to make progress with the bike in the final race two. So that at least gives us some direction for next week in Aragón, but we have lost an entire weekend.”

SPORTS

Liverpool’s Klopp, AlexanderArnold win Premier League awards TL Bureau, London

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp was named Premier League manager of the season Saturday after taking the club to their first top-flight title since 1990, dpa reported.

Liverpool finished 18 points clear of Manchester City at the top, adding the Premier League title to the Champions League trophy they won last year. Klopp’s side finished with 99 points, winning 32 of their 38 games, clinching the title with seven matches remaining.

Liverpool full back Trent Alexander-Arnold was named as the Premier League’s young player of the season on Friday.

The awards are decided by a combination of public votes and a panel of football experts.

Lamborghini secures third win of British GT season at Brands Hatch

TL Bureau, Sant’Agata Bolognese

TL Bureau, Debrecen (Hungary) Liman (SRB) won the FIBA 3x3 World Tour Debrecen Masters for the second consecutive and third time ever (2017, 2019, 2020) on August 29-30, 2020.

The number one ranked 3x3 team in the world had a perfect 5-0 run in the second largest city in Hungary, which culminated with a 21-17 win in the final against Utena Uniclub (LTU). Stefan Stojacic and Aleksandar Ratkov both scored 8 in a dramatic title game.

For his return to the World Tour after an injury-plagued 2019 season, the former number one player in the world Stojacic

won MVP. The man known as ‘Mister Robot’ was a machine in Debrecen as he was the event’s joint top scorer with 41 points in 5 games and led all players in Player Value, which measures the overall statistical contribution of each player.

It was a special day for his teammate Stefan Kojic, who also became a father and will therefore never forget the day Liman won their 6th-ever Masters.

Utena Uniclub was the story of the tournament, competing in their first-ever Masters and going all the way to the final as the #12 and last seed. The 27-year-old Ignas Vaitkus led the scoring charts, tied with Stojacic.

Lamborghini recorded a third British GT race victory in as many rounds as Sandy Mitchell and Rob Collard (#78 Barwell Motorsport Huracán GT3 Evo) came out on top at the end of two hours at Brands Hatch in Kent.

The Silver Cup partnership started second on the grid following Saturday’s qualifying session and maintained that position for the opening hour as the McLaren of Michael O’Brien and James Baldwin led the way. Two safety car interventions bunched the field back up together however, which gave Collard the perfect moment to take the mandatory driver-change pit-stop to hand over to Mitchell.

The British duo made the most of a bizarre incident whereby a course vehicle ended up driving down the pitlane while cars were making their stops, to emerge at the head of the field before the second restart. Despite this

slightly fortuitous assumption of the lead, new Lamborghini GT3 Junior Driver Mitchell expertly led away from O’Brien’s McLaren, holding a slender margin of just over half a second.

That grew to a fraction over one-and-a-half seconds entering the final 10 minutes of the race, before the young Scotsman came under pressure while lapping slower GT4 traffic. Thankfully, the lead battle for GT4 honours kept largely out of the way of Mitchell’s Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo in the final minutes, and the Barwell combination claimed their first race win of

the season so far.

It was Barwell’s second win in three rounds, having taking Race 2 spoils on the opening weekend at Oulton Park. Behind Mitchell and Collard, Lamborghini Factory Driver Franck Perera and teammate Michael Igoe claimed a valuable sixth-place finish in their WPI Motorsport Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo – which won last time out at Donington Park – to boost their title chances.

The next round of the British GT Championship takes place on the weekend of September 19-20th, for the second meeting at Donington Park.

11

tech/auto

Toyota and Honda to Begin Demonstration Testing of a Mobile Power Generation/Output System to Deliver a Secure Supply of Electricity in Times of Disaster

TL Bureau, Tokyo

Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Honda R&D Co., Ltd. (Honda) will create a mobile power generation/output system, Moving e, that consists of a fuel cell bus that can carry a large amount of hydrogen, portable external power output devices and portable batteries, and will begin demonstration testing of the system’s ability to deliver electricity anytime and anywhere.

When a power grid is damaged during a disaster such as typhoons and rainstorms, people suffer from an interruption in the supply of power to their homes and evacuation centers. To address this issue, Toyota and Honda will bring technologies together to create a mobile power generation/output system and conduct demonstration testing of delivering electricity to people. Taking advantage of its mobility, the Moving e can be utilized as a “phase-free*” system which can be used in times of a disaster to support disaster response by supplying electricity in an affected area, as well as in normal times for routine uses such as supplying power at an event.

Through this demonstration testing, the two companies will confirm the actual needs of people and verify usability of the system.

The Moving e mobile power generation/output system will consist of Toyota’s CHARGING STATION fuel cell bus Honda’s Power Exporter 9000

portable external power output device Two types of Honda’s portable batteries: LiB-AID E500 and Honda Mobile Power Pack (MPP) Honda Mobile Power Pack Charge & Supply Concept charger/ discharger for MPP The CHARGING STATION loaded with all equipment will be driven to the place and the Moving e will supply electricity in actual locations. More specifically, portable external power output devices and portable batteries will be used to take electricity out of

the fuel cell bus, which serves as a power source, and feed electricity to electrical appliances.

Developed based on the previous version of Toyota FC Bus, the CHARGING STATION fuel cell bus is equipped with twice as many high-pressure hydrogen tanks that significantly increased the amount of hydrogen it can carry, enabling the CHARGING STATION to feature a high-output and largecapacity power generation capacity (generates 454kWh with maximum output of 18kW). In case of power outage during a disaster, this large

capacity enables the Moving e to supply electricity in indoor areas such as an evacuation center, as well as inside vehicles by storing electricity generated by the CHARGING STATION in large-capacity portable batteries, namely Honda Mobile Power Packs and LiB-AID E500 via the Power Exporter 9000.

Furthermore, featuring a space where people can take a nap, the CHARGING STATION can serve not only as a means of transportation but also as a place for people to rest in times

of a disaster. The two companies will verify the effectiveness of the Moving e mobile power generation/ output system as a phase-free system through various uses by municipalities and businesses which fulfill the necessary conditions and are willing to cooperate with the testing.

Phase-free The concept of utilizing the same products and services not only in normal times but also in times of an emergency by eliminating the concept of two different phases―normal time and time of emergency.

Toyota Rolls Out All-New Yaris Cross in Japan Revamping the Typical Concept of a Compact SUV, Yaris Cross Provides Novel Value

TL Bureau, Toyota City

Yaris Cross carries on the nimble driving, advanced security and safety technology, and superior fuel economy of the Yaris series while providing new value as an urban-type compact SUV that not only provides convenience but is also imbued with the individuality and lifestyle of the driver and its passengers. Wellbalanced and refined proportions that depict the robustness and presence unique to an SUV An easy-to-use and uncompromising luggage room supports an active lifestyle Employs a four-wheel drive system capable of responding to various road surface conditions for both gasolinepowered and hybrid system models The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) system allows Yaris to achieve a

world-class, top level fuel economy for its class that surpasses what is considered typical performance for an SUV Added many advanced features for a safe, secure, comfortable and convenient drive, as many consumers drive this class of SUV Toyota City, Japan, August 31, 2020― Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announced the release of the Yaris Cross, a new-model compact SUV.

The Yaris Cross will be available through Toyota dealers nationwide from August 31.

HYBRID Z (Front-wheel drive) (Options shown) The development of the newgeneration Yaris Cross aims to pursue new value as a compact SUV that not only offers convenience but also carries on the nimble driving, advanced security and safety technology, and superior fuel economy features of

the Yaris series.

Specifically, as with the Yaris, the all-new Yaris Cross is Toyota’s first compact vehicle to adopt the TNGA platform (GA-B). As a package that can make full use of this performance, in addition to the “condensed” design, the new model features lean, wellbalanced and refined proportions that express the robustness and presence unique to an SUV. Although a compact SUV, the Yaris Cross offers easy-touse and uncompromising luggage room that supports the active lifestyle of its driver and passengers.

A 4WD (four-wheel drive) system affords a seamless driving performance for a wide range of activities from urban driving to leisure activities.

The gasoline-powered model is loaded with functions that offer a satisfying SUV driving performance,

including ‘Multi-terrain Select’ that allows the driver to choose between three modes to adjust to road surface conditions. Toyota is also offering HEV models featuring the E-Four (electric 4WD system) for the first time on a compact car. Furthermore, the hybrid variant achieves worldclass, top level fuel economy for its class (2WD, 30.8 km/L*1 in WLTC mode) that surpasses what is the typical performance of an SUV. For security and safety technologies, Toyota Safety Sense, the company’s newest active safety package, comes as a standard feature (excluding X “B package”). The decision from Toyota to equip the all-new vehicle with Toyota’s latest technologies and features came following the Yaris because many consumers choose to drive compact class cars.

12

world

New measures to ensure the supply of future vaccines and therapies against COVID-19

TL Bureau, Montréal

Canada’s ability to defeat COVID-19 depends on the development, production, and distribution of an effective and proven vaccine. That is why the Government of Canada is working closely with researchers and scientists to better understand the virus and protect the health of Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that agreements in principle have been reached with Johnson & Johnson and Novavax to procure millions of doses of experimental COVID‑19 vaccines. These agreements add to those already reached with Pfizer and Moderna, which were made following the recommendations of the COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force.

With these additional agreements

in place, Canada has now secured access to four of the leading vaccine candidates.

The government will continue to negotiate and sign other agreements with a number of leading pharmaceutical companies, to ensure the supply of potential vaccines in Canada.

The Prime Minister also announced funding to establish a new biomanufacturing facility at the Human Health Therapeutics Research Centre in Montréal.

Through a public-private partnership, the new building will enable the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) to increase vaccine manufacturing to up to two million doses per month by next year. This will help ensure our country’s ability to produce enough doses of the vaccine for Canadians who need them, such as front line

workers, long-term care workers, and those at risk of becoming seriously ill if they contract COVID-19.

The Government of Canada will continue to explore and pursue all promising options to ensure the supply of potential vaccines and better protect the health and safety of Canadians.

Quotes “As we continue to work together to limit the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the health of Canadians, as well as its social and economic effects, we must also maximize our chances of defeating the virus.

To do this, we need to invest in the development of several promising vaccines and ensure that we can manufacture and distribute the vaccine to as many Canadians as possible, as quickly as possible. That is how we will

move forward on a sustainable path to a full recovery.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada “Our government is committed to delivering safe and effective treatments and vaccines against COVID-19. We must therefore grow our biomanufacturing capacity here in Canada. The funding announced today for this new facility will help the NRC increase production of potential vaccine doses to up to two million per month. It will also help manufacture vaccines for clinical trials and priority populations.”

The Hon. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry “We will continue to ensure that the Government of Canada is doing everything possible to make a safe and effective COVID-19

Trinidad and Tobago’s Statement by the Prime Minister on India’s Independence Day Independence Day

TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State On behalf of the Government of the United States and the American people, I extend my congratulations to the people of Trinidad and Tobago as you celebrate your 58th Independence Day. The United States values the strong ties between the American and Trinidadian and Tobagonian people and our work together on initiatives that strengthen our partnership and our economies.

Our exchange programs will continue to build personal and professional relationships between our people in every field, from sports and youth civic engagement to public health and disaster preparedness.

We also look forward to continuing our collaboration under the U.S.-Caribbean Resilience Partnership and U.S.Caribbean 2020 Strategy.

On this day of celebration, I send our best wishes to Trinidadians and Tobagonians for peace, prosperity, and good health in the coming year.

TL Bureau, Ottawa

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on India’s Independence Day: “Today, we join the people of India and Indo-Canadian communities across Canada to celebrate the Independence Day of India, the world’s largest democracy.

“Canada and India have a strong, longstanding, and vibrant relationship built on our shared traditions of democracy and pluralism, and deep cultural and people-to-people ties. The over 1 million Canadians of Indian heritage have made – and continue to make

– many important contributions to our country.

“Canada and India work closely together in international organizations including the United Nations, the Commonwealth, and the World Trade Organization. We look forward to deepening our partnership in important areas like trade and investment, education and skills training, science and innovation, and climate change, for the benefit of the people in both our countries.

“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I send best wishes to all who are celebrating India’s Independence Day.”

these negotiations and call on all parties to implement the agreement in good faith, with the same spirit of partnership and compromise, and in a way that complement the ongoing talks with other groups. The agreement demonstrates the commitment of the parties to prioritize peace as called for in the August 2019 Constitutional Decree. It is an important step in restoring security, dignity, and development to the population of Sudan’s conflict-affected and marginalized areas. We believe the formal agreement must be followed up with local peace and reconciliation efforts in the conflict-affected areas.

The Troika urges the Sudan

People’s Liberation MovementNorth-Abdelaziz al-Hilu and the Sudan Liberation MovementAbdulwahid Al Nur to build on this achievement and to engage in serious negotiations with the Government of Sudan in order to achieve the promise of a comprehensive peace called for by the Sudanese people in the revolution of December 2018. All Sudanese have the right to live in peace and enjoy the same privileges and responsibilities. Only a fully inclusive national process can address fundamental questions relating to the identity of the state.

The non-violent December 2018 Revolution provided a once-

in-a generation opportunity to transform Sudan into an inclusive, peaceful, and just state. The recent increase in violence in in Darfur, South Kordofan and Blue Nile states, and Port Sudan highlights the challenges to achieving sustainable peace. We urge the government and its partners to establish the Peace Commission and the Transitional Legislative Council and begin to bring accountable administration and justice to all of Sudan. A just Sudan requires neutral and professional security services that protect and safeguard all Sudanese equally. We urge the SRF, other opposition groups, and political parties

vaccine available to Canadians.

Today’s announcement marks an important milestone in our efforts to protect Canadians from COVID-19 as soon as possible.”

The Hon. Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health “As we continue our work to purchase the supplies and equipment that are necessary to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, we remain equally focused on planning for the future, including securing potential vaccines for Canadians. We are taking an aggressive approach in procuring a portfolio of the most promising vaccine candidates in order to ensure that Canadians will have access to them as quickly as possible once they have been approved.”

The Hon. Anita Anand, Minister of Public Services and Procurement

Opening up without control of COVID-19 is recipe for disaster, says WHO TL Bureau, Geneva

Countries with significant active spread of coronavirus must prevent amplifying events, as opening up without the virus being under control would be a “recipe for disaster”, the World Health Organization said on Monday. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus recognized that many people are getting tired of restrictions and want to return to normality eight months into the pandemic. The WHO fully supported efforts to reopen economies and societies, he told a news conference, adding:

Troika Statement on the Peace Agreement between Sudan Armed Opposition Groups TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

The United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway (the Troika) welcome the peace agreement between the Sudan Revolutionary Front (SRF) and the Civilian-led Transitional Government of Sudan, initialed on 28 August 2020 as the first step in a long process to rebuild hope and stability for conflictaffected communities in Sudan.

The peace agreement lays a foundation for sustainable peace and stability in Darfur and other conflict-affected areas that is critical for Sudan’s democratic transition.

We recognize the concessions all have made to conclude

to put aside differences and personal ambitions for the good of their entire country. The Troika urges Sudan’s diverse communities to overcome old enmities and to unite to support this singular opportunity for lasting peace.

We commend the Government of South Sudan for its role in mediating the peace negotiations, and recognize the valuable support provided by the United Nations and regional and bilateral partners that helped make the peace agreement possible.

The Troika will continue to support the Sudanese people in their quest for freedom, peace, and justice.

13