The Life News Singapore. May 1, 2020 by The Life News

News from World, Worldwide readership.

Vol. 02 Issue 25 May 01, 2020

US draws up plans on China over COVID-19, Australia for probe last week

TL Bureau, Washington D.C. & Canberra

The Trump organization is defining a drawn out arrangement to rebuff China on numerous fronts for the coronavirus pandemic, infusing a spiteful new component into a basic relationship as of now on a lofty descending slide. The exertion coordinates however goes a long ways past a political race system of accusing Beijing to divert from President Donald Trump’s mistakes in foreseeing and taking care of the emergency, which has now slaughtered in excess of 60,000 Americans. Different sources inside the organization express that there is a craving to utilize different devices, including sanctions, dropping US obligation commitments and drawing up new exchange approaches, to clarify to China, and to every other person, where they feel

the duty lies. “We need to get the economy moving once more, we must be cautious about how we do this,” said one organization official, talking on state of obscurity. “Yet, we will discover approaches to show the Chinese that their activities are totally unpardonable.” The insight network is in the interim going under huge weight from the organization, with senior authorities pushing to see if the infection got away into people in general from

a research center in Wuhan, China, two sources acquainted with the disappointments said. In a remarkable move, the knowledge network gave an announcement saying it was flooding assets on the issue as it would in any emergency. “The IC will keep on thoroughly look at developing data and insight to decide if the episode started through contact with tainted creatures or in the event that it was the consequence of a mishap at a lab in Wuhan,” the announcement said. Trump referenced the petulant

connection between the two countries on Thursday, when he told columnists at the White House that China wouldn’t like to see him get reappointed in light of the fact that the US is “getting billions” from the nation because of their economic agreement. On opposite side Last week Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison demands on Australia stays focused on an autonomous examination concerning the spread and starting points of the coronavirus pandemic, in spite of China’s excusal of the possibility. Beijing has harshly dismissed Foreign Minister Marise Payne’s requires the request, marking the premise of such an audit as unfounded. Representative Payne declared the push for the examination on last Sunday, uncovering her degree of worry about straightforwardness from China is at a high point.

Russia says using new U.S. warheads would provoke nuclear retaliation

TL Bureau, Moscow

Russia’s remote service has cautioned the United States that any utilization of the U.S. Naval force’s extraordinary failure yield atomic weapons would incite a substantial reaction from the Kremlin. The admonition follows a declaration by the Pentagon in February that the Navy had sent the first W76-2 low-yield submarine-propelled atomic warheads. Wednesday, outside service representative Maria Zakharova forewarned the U.S. military that utilizing those weapons against Russia

would warrant an atomic retaliatory strike. “Any assault including a U.S. submarinepropelled ballistic rocket, paying little heed to its weapon particulars, would be seen as

an atomic animosity,” Zakharova said. “The individuals who like to estimate about the adaptability of American atomic potential must comprehend that in accordance with the Russian military precept such activities are viewed as justifying retaliatory utilization of atomic weapons by Russia.” The U.S. State Department recommended a week ago that outfitting Navy submarines with the low-yield nukes - which have hazardous force like the nuclear bombs dropped in Japan during World War II - would just serve to discourage military incitement from Russia and China.

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Russian Prime Minister diagnosed with COVID-19

TL Bureau, Moscow Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin declared Thursday he’s tried positive for coronavirus. He uncovered his finding during a video meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “It has been uncovered that my coronavirus tests have returned positive,” Mishustin said. “Considering this and as per Rospotrebnadzor necessities, I should self-seclude and follow physicians’ instructions.” BBC News revealed that the head administrator was treated at a medical clinic for his manifestations, however it’s hazy in the event that he stayed there under consideration. Putin concurred with Mishustin’s proposal that First Deputy Prime Minister Andrei Belousov have his spot during Mishustin’s recovery. “The legislature will keep functioning as should be expected, I intend to be in dynamic contact by means of telephone with partners ... on every key issue,” Mishustin said. The PM asked Russian residents to remain at home to forestall the spread of COVID-19, which has sickened in excess of 106,000 individuals in Russia and killed 1,073 as of Thursday evening. “I request that you recollect that the date when our nation can come back to undeniable life relies upon the control and self discipline of all of us. Take care of yourself and your friends and family,” Mishustin said.

OCLC 1101190095

t’s a grievous occasion for the film business for Bollywood as well as to Hollywood and different ventures as well, when two onscreen characters Rishi Kapoor matured 67 and Irrfan Khan matured 53 kicked the bucket over the most recent two days. Veteran entertainer Rishi Kapoor, who has had a wonderful vocation in the realm of Hindi film spreading over more than four decades, died at a Mumbai emergency clinic on Thursday morning. He was 67. The entertainer, who had enchanted his way into a great many hearts with his glimmering debut in 1973’s ‘Bobby’, had been feeble for some time. Subsequent to being determined to have disease in 2018, he experienced treatment in New York for nearly 12 months. In September 2019, he came back to India yet was infrequently found out in the open. On Wednesday morning, the entertainer was admitted to Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital in Mumbai after he grumbled of anxiety. Amitabh Bachchan took to Twitter to grieve the demise of his co-star in various movies. He stated, “Rishi Kapoor... gone... died. I am devastated !”. The tweet was erased before long. A few other true to life

Two gems of Film Industry no more.. characters with whom Kapoor delighted in a cozy relationship additionally paid tribute to the incredible entertainer. On the opposite side Bollywood star Irrfan Khan, known universally for his jobs in “Life Of Pi” and “Slumdog Millionaire,” kicked the bucket Wednesday, his delegates affirmed. He was 53. “It’s disheartening that this day, we need to present the updates on him dying,” read an announcement from Khan’s PR organization, Hardly Anonymous Communications. “Irrfan was a solid soul, somebody who battled till the end and constantly enlivened everybody who approached him.” Khan, one of India’s most popular and most

cherished entertainers, uncovered in March 2018 that he had been determined to have an uncommon neuroendocrine tumor a strange development that start in the body’s particular neuroendocrine cells, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. Not long ago, Khan was admitted to the ICU in Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital because of a colon disease, as per

editorial

his PR organization. Khan’s mom kicked the bucket a week ago, however Khan couldn’t go to her last rituals attributable to India’s continuous across the country coronavirus lockdown confining residents’ developments, the organization said. He abandons a spouse and two youngsters. Conceived in the northern Indian province of Rajasthan, Khan went to the National School of Drama in New Delhi and began his acting profession before long. In the wake of playing for the most part supporting and character jobs for over 10 years, he broke into driving jobs in the mid 2000s, featuring in and winning his first honor for the 2004 film “Haasil.” He immediately increased national acknowledgment in the next years, with jobs in other honor assigned and winning movies like “Life In A...Metro” and “The Lunchbox.”

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Coronavirus lockdown casts harsh light on our data and privacy online

TL Bureau, UN HQ

Reporting the results of a fresh survey on the adoption of cyberlaws around the world, UNCTAD said that the vulnerability is even more stark among least developing countries, amounting to 43 per cent. The share is highest in Europe at 96 per cent, followed by 69 per cent in the Americas, 57 per cent in Asia and the Pacific, and 50 per cent in Africa. “Given the rise in cybercrime, scams and online fraud during the COVID19pandemic, the survey results are very worrying”, said Shamika Sirimanne, head of UNCTAD’s

technology and logistics division. UNCTAD does not specifically collect data on cybercrime, but the agency told UN News that there has been a spike in complaints during the worldwide lockdowns. With millions now working from home, computer security is much more at risk than in secure work environments and with more transactions taking place online, fraud is on the rise. Trust and protection If e-commerce is to support development, consumers and businesses must feel that their online transactions are protected, especially at a time when digital

Government decides to lift the restrictions on early childhood education and care and on primary and lower secondary Education TL Bureau, Helsinki

In its negotiations today, 29 April, the Government decided to lift the restrictions on early childhood education and care and those on primary and lower secondary education on the basis of an assessment by the health authorities. Contact teaching in early childhood education and care as well as primary and lower secondary education will resume on 14 May in a controlled manner and with care for safety. . At the same time, education providers have time to arrange to resume contact teaching by informing staff and making other arrangements. Based on an epidemiological assessment, there are no longer grounds for extending the Decree on the Application of the Emergency Powers Act concerning early childhood education and care and primary and lower secondary education. International and

national experience show that the role of children in the dissemination of coronavirus infections is not similar to that of adults. The Ministry of Education and Culture and the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare have drawn up guidelines and instructions on the arrangements for returning to early childhood education and care and to primary and lower secondary education. The most important thing is to avoid unnecessary physical contacts and arrange teaching premises more spaciously than usual. School break times and school meals must also be held with the students’ own class or group. Large gatherings, such as spring festivals, will not be organised. Personnel must also work with the same group of children and hygiene guidelines must be strictly respected. Education providers will make decisions on more specific arrangements.

tools are increasingly the only way to access goods and services, she said.They include Brazil and Thailand, which – like Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea and South Africa – are basing their legislation on the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation, implemented two years ago this month. Enforcement is key UNCTAD noted, however, that once relevant legislation goes into place, it must be enforced – and developing countries often lack the resources they need to enforce the law. The ever-changing cybercrime

landscape and the resulting skills gap pose a significant challenge for law enforcement agencies and prosecutors, especially with regards to cross-border enforcement. Summarizing other key findings, UNCTAD said that globally, 81 per cent of countries have e-transaction laws, with Europe and the Americas having the highest share (98 per cent and 91 per cent respectively) and Africa the lowest (61 per cent). Seventy-nine per cent have cybercrime legislation, but with wide variations between regions, from 89 per cent in Europea to 72 per cent in Africa.

International climate action Looking at the economy and the environment together

TL Bureau, Berlin

At the 11th Petersberg Climate Dialogue, Chancellor Angela Merkel has advocated that economic recovery programmes should take account of the imperatives of climate change mitigation. She stressed our international responsibility for implementing the Paris Agreement and welcomed the new, more ambitious EU climate targets for 2030. How can we ensure that the new start after the crisis is environmentally sound? In view of the COVID-19 pandemic, this question was central to the Petersberg Climate Dialogue, organised for the first time this year as a video conference. In conjunction with possible assistance to revitalise the economy in the wake of the coronavirus crisis, the Chancellor said it was important not to economise on

climate action but rather to invest in the technologies of the future. When countries now discuss recovery programmes for their struggling economies, it will be important to ensure we always keep climate imperatives uppermost in our minds, said Angela Merkel. Work must continue on realising the Paris Agreement The Chancellor told conference participants, “We still have a responsibility to implement the Paris Agreement and it is still up to us to improve national contributions by 2030.” With its Green Deal, the European Union is on the right path. The target to date had been 40 per cent. Appropriate CO2 pricing needed This will require us to invest in a climate-friendly infrastructure and will entail appropriate CO2 pricing. This is the most efficient market instrument for reducing emissions.

world

FC - Coronavirus: Federal Council to ease further measures from 11 May TL Bureau, Bern

At its meeting on 29 April, the Federal Council decided to further ease the measures introduced to protect the population against the coronavirus. From Monday, 11 May, shops, restaurants markets, museums and libraries will be allowed to reopen, classes can be held again in primary and lower secondary schools, and sports training sessions will be allowed. Public transport will again operate according to the standard timetable. This year baccalaureate examination grades may be based on continuous assessment, although the cantons will ultimately decide whether written baccalaureate examinations will be held. It is further planned to reintroduce comprehensive contact tracing for all new infections from 11 May.

Jordanian King Discusses COVID-19 Response with President of Chechen Republic TL Bureau, Amman

Jordanian King Abdullah II, in a phone call on Wednesday with President of the Chechen Republic Ramzan Kadyrov, discussed efforts to counter the humanitarian and economic impacts of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). King Abdullah praised the deep-rooted bilateral ties and keenness to advance them across all sectors

Home Secretary announces visa extensions Flags on Labour Day are to be flown in honour of for frontline health and care workers

Free visa extensions will be automatically granted to more crucial overseas health and care workers. TL Bureau, London

Free visa extensions will be automatically granted to more crucial overseas health and care workers, the Home Secretary has announced today. Frontline workers, including midwives, radiographers, social workers and pharmacists, with visas due to expire before 1 October 2020 will receive an automatic one-year extension. It will apply to those working both in the NHS and independent sector and include their family members. This builds on the Home Secretary’s announcement last month for NHS doctors, nurses and paramedics. All will be exempt for the Immigration Health Surcharge for the duration

of the exemption. In total approximately 3,000 vital health and care workers and their families will benefit from the extension. Home Secretary Priti Patel said: We are incredibly grateful to all overseas health and care workers fighting this invisible enemy. We have already announced the extension of visas for NHS doctors, nurses and paramedics. Now we are going further by extending this offer to hundreds of other frontline health and care workers, both in the NHS and in the independent sector. These extensions will be automatic, free and include exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge. Secretary of State for Health and

Social Care Matt Hancock said: Frontline health and social care workers from overseas are doing extraordinary work in responding to this global outbreak. Around 3,000 vital health and care workers and their families will benefit from the extension, and we are hugely grateful to them for protecting the vulnerable and saving lives. Those benefiting are providing essential services in response to the coronavirus pandemic. It is important we relieve the pressure from the whole of the NHS, so it can focus maximum effort on fighting the coronavirus and saving lives. The extension comes into effect immediately and is for all visas expiring between 31 March and 1 October 2020.

those working against coronavirus TL Bureau, Helsinki

On Labour Day 1 May, flags will be flying in honour of Finnish work. In these exceptional times, many people are working in demanding conditions to fight coronavirus. The Ministry of the Interior recommends that this year flag flying on 1 May will be especially in honour of all those working against coronavirus. Healthcare personnel work in the front line in the fight against the virus, as do the personnel of the services for older people. Coronavirus has made working conditions difficult for police officers, border guards, teachers,

public transport workers, cleaners, supermarket cashiers and many other professionals, too. “On Labour Day, we celebrate Finnish work and spring. During the coronavirus epidemic, it is important to thank all those who keep the vital functions of society up and running despite the emergency conditions. Many of them do not have the opportunity to telework and many have had to reorganise their work completely and very quickly“, says Minister of the Interior Maria Ohisalo.Flags are to be raised at 8.00 in the morning and lowered at 21.00.

world

CHILD ABUSE: NURSERY SCHOOL TEACHER AND HER PARTNER TO BE PROSECUTED IN HUNGARY The two individuals are suspected of sexually abusing several children including their own

TL Bureau, The Hague

The Hungarian National Police (Magyar Rendőrség), supported by Europol and other operational partners, identified a nursery school teacher and her partner to be behind the distribution of child sexual exploitation material on the dark net. Her partner is suspected of abusing the teacher’s niece and their own child. During the proceedings, the investigators also found evidence that the teacher took sexually explicit images of several children in the school. The couple disseminated the images of child sexual abuse on various paedophile forums on the dark net, where they used different identifiers in numerous forums over several years. During a search of the suspects’ residence, investigators

U.S. Secretary of State Commends the Coalition’s One-Month Extension of Ceasefire in Yemen TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo today commended the Coalition to Restore Legitimacy in Yemen led by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for extending unilateral ceasefire in Yemen for a month. Pompeo said in a press briefing that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Government have answered the special envoy’s call to lay down their weapons to stop fighting and focus on defeating the corona pandemic, asking the Houthis to do the same.He added that all parties must facilitate humanitarian access, and the Yemeni Government and Yemeni Government institutions must observe the unity and territorial integrity of Yemen

seized IT equipment which contained additional images and videos of child sexual abuse. Europol supported the operation by facilitating information exchange, providing analytical, victim identification and open source support. Several Europol Victim Identification Task Forces focused on

this case, which is another example of the strong collaborative effort of investigators from around the world to identify these victims and their offenders. The International Child Sexual Exploitation database, hosted at INTERPOL is also an important tool for the success of this collaborative network.

Norway is providing NOK 30 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), which coordinates United Nations migration activities. Part of the funding will provide support to humanitarian efforts by IOM to inform migrants and other vulnerable groups about Covid-19 infection prevention and to provide them with related health services and clean water. ‘We are providing most of this funding as a core contribution without earmarking, so that IOM itself can define what needs are most pressing,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Ine Eriksen Søreide. ‘Almost all of IOM’s operations are project funded,

TL Bureau, Geneva

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar Yanghee Lee has called for an investigation into allegations of ongoing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Myanmar’s Rakhine and Chin States. She said in a statement that the calls for a ceasefire, including by the Arakan Army, have gone unheeded. Instead, the Tatmadaw is inflicting immense suffering on the ethnic communities in Rakhine and Chin and violates the most fundamental principles of international humanitarian law and human rights. Its conduct against the civilian population of Rakhine and Chin States may amount to war crimes and crimes against humanity. She also called on all sides to protect civilians and focus

Major home testing programme for coronavirus will track levels of infection in the community

100,000 people will be sent self-testing kits to determine if they are currently infected.

TL Bureau, London

A major new programme of home testing for coronavirus will track the progress of the infection across England, the government announced today. The programme, commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care, is being led by a world-class team of scientists, clinicians and researchers at Imperial College London alongside colleagues at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, and supported by Ipsos MORI. It will help improve understanding of how many people are currently infected with the virus, and potentially how many have been infected and recovered since the outbreak began. Accurate

but the important organisational work needed by IOM to address new challenges must be funded in other ways. We contribute to that through our core funding.’ At a time when IOM is undergoing an important restructuring, the pandemic poses new organisational challenges to IOM’s activities in more than 100 countries. Norway will provide NOK 20 million in core funding this year, a contribution that will help IOM to build capacity, strengthen key functions and prepare itself for its new role as UN migration coordinator. An additional NOK 10 million in humanitarian aid to Covid-19 response is also forthcoming. The Covid-19 pandemic is aggravating existing hardships in countries and regions

on responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Yanghee Lee added, “The Tatmadaw continues to operate with impunity. For decades, its tactics have intentionally maximised civilian suffering; we all know what they did to the Rohingya in 2017. They are now targeting all civilians in the conflict area, with people from Rakhine, Rohingya, Mro, Daignet and Chin communities being killed in recent months”. She also said, “The Tatmadaw has ramped up attacks against civilians. More than 157,000 people have been displaced, and hundreds including women and children killed and wounded since the conflict started. In one artillery attack on 13 April, the Tatmadaw killed eight civilians, including at least two children, when it targeted Kyauk Seik village, in Ponnagyun township.

FC - COVID-19:

Federal Council fleshes out support for airlines TL Bureau, Bern

testing for the virus on a wide scale will provide authorities with a clearer picture of the current spread of the disease and the number of people who

Norway increases support for vulnerable migrants through IOM

TL Bureau, Oslo

UN Official Calls for Investigation into Allegations of War Crimes in Myanmar

afflicted by humanitarian crisis. Migrants, refugees and internally displaced persons are particularly vulnerable to the virus and will have enhanced need for protection and basic health care. ‘That is why we are also contributing NOK 10 million in humanitarian aid to IOM, enabling it to take part in UN response to direct and indirect consequences of the pandemic. IOM has a substantial presence in hard-to-reach areas and will be able to inform vulnerable migrants, displaced persons and other vulnerable groups about infection prevention measures, health services and access to clean water. IOM also plays an important role in mapping population movements,’ Ms Eriksen Søreide said.

have previously caught it. It will help identify individuals who may have some immunity to the virus, and to plan services for those who do not.

During its meeting on 29 April 2020, the Federal Council decided to provide support to the airlines Swiss and Edelweiss to bridge liquidity shortfalls. In order to resume flight operations, airlines are dependent on the services provided by aviationrelated businesses at the national airports. Consequently, these businesses should also receive support if necessary, provided that the stringent conditions imposed by the Confederation can be met. The Federal Council has asked Parliament for guarantee credits totalling just under CHF 1.9 billion.

UK Government funding Coronavirus testing in Scotland

TL Bureau, London These testing sites form part of the UK-wide national testing strategy which includes: Drive through testing facilities in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness with the Perth site currently piloting. The UK Government has funded these testing centres throughout Scotland to ensure testing capacity across the UK is maximised. As public health is devolved in Scotland

it is the responsibility of the Scottish Government to define key workers and their eligibility for testing. Key workers can now also book their own test via the UK Government’s online portal. The military are also providing the Scottish Government with 13 pop up mobile testing sites across Scotland. The UK Government is funding a new ‘megalab’ in Glasgow, operated by Glasgow University, which is now mass processing COVID tests for key workers.

Singapore

First Tranche of Public Sector Data Security Review Recommendations Implemented

BUSINESS EXPECTATIONS OF THE MANUFACTURING SECTOR I Business Sentiments for April - September 2020

30 April 2020 – The first tranche of recommendations from the Public Sector Data Security Review Committee (“the Committee”) has been implemented on schedule. This includes the launch of a microsite for the public to access information on the Government’s data security policies and measures, and a new central platform for members of the public to report data incidents related to Government agencies. In November 2019, the Committee submitted its recommendations to improve public sector data security, following a comprehensive review of data security policies and practices across the public sector. The Government accepted the Committee’s recommendations and is implementing them in phases to strengthen its data security regime. Progress of Implementation The first tranche of measures that have been implemented will improve accountability and transparency of the

Business sentiments in the manufacturing sector have turned negative due largely to concerns over the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak. A weighted 4 per cent of manufacturers expect business conditions to improve while a weighted 60 per cent foresees a weaker business outlook. Overall, a net weighted balance of 56 per cent of manufacturing firms anticipate a less favourable business situation for the period April – September 2020, compared to the first quarter of 2020. Within the manufacturing sector, all clusters expect a less favourable operating environment to prevail in the next six months. This is largely attributed to weakened external demand and supply chain disruptions, arising from public health measures, including lockdowns and the closure of

TL Bureau, Singapore

• Launch of microsite on Government’s approach to data security • New central platform for public to report Government data incidents

public sector data security regime, and enhance the Government’s effectiveness in responding to incidents promptly, and notifying affected individuals in the event of a data incident. Technical and process measures to enhance the protection of data, and to prevent the incidence of data compromise are being progressively implemented. We are on schedule to meet the target set in the Report of implementing the relevant measures in 80% of Government systems by end 2021, and in the remaining 20% of systems by end 2023. Launch of public microsite on Government’s approach to data security A new microsite setting out the Government’s approach to data security has been launched on the Smart Nation website (Go.gov.sg/

MAS Supports Inaugural Cloud-Based G20 TechSprint

TL Bureau, Singapore

The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced today that it is pleased to support the inaugural G20 TechSprint initiative, launched by the Saudi G20 Presidency and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub1 on the API Exchange (APIX)2 innovation platform. The TechSprint initiative will enable central banks and financial regulators to collaborate with FinTech firms on technology solutions to strengthen regulatory and supervisory practices. Under this initiative, the Saudi G20 Presidency and the BIS Innovation Hub have published problem statements relating to regulatory compliance faced by financial institutions and supervisory processes undertaken by regulators

respectively. FinTechs and other players are invited through a hackathon-style competition to develop innovative solutions to address these problem statements. In the current Covid-19 environment which makes travel and large scale face-to-face meetings challenging, the APIX platform will enable the TechSprint to connect central banks, regulators and supervisors with FinTechs digitally and on a global basis. The entire sequence of activities in the TechSprint, from engagement and shortlisting to testing and selecting the best solutions will be conducted digitally in a cost efficient and effective manner. Shortlisted participants will have their solution prototypes featured in a report. MAS will further support the TechSprint by showcasing the winning solutions at the Singapore FinTech Festival.

SecureSmartNation). This aims to provide the public with a better understanding of the Government’s approach to personal data protection, and the measures put in place to protect personal data. The Government is committed to ensuring the security of data that is entrusted to it by the public. The Government will also ensure that all public officers handling data do so in accordance with the stringent data security standards put in place. Annual reports highlighting the Government’s efforts to continually improve on these standards will be made available to the public on the microsite. Launch of central platform for public to report Government data incidents. Members of the public can now report incidents involving any unauthorised disclosure or compromise of Government data to a central platform.

TL Bureau, Singapore

borders, in many countries to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. A net weighted balance of 25 per cent of firms in the chemicals cluster anticipate business conditions to weaken in the months ahead. In particular, the petroleum and petrochemicals segments expect weakened product demand to weigh on refining and petrochemical margins. Additionally, firms in the specialties and other chemicals segments expressed concerns about disruptions to feedstock supply and product deliveries. A net weighted balance of 75 and 12 per cent of firms in the electronics and precision engineering clusters respectively expect business prospects to worsen in the next six months. This negative sentiment is largely due to the COVID-19 outbreak, which is expected to derail the recovery in the global electronics industry on the back of supply chain disruptions and dampened demand.

Tripartite Partners Call upon Ships to Sound their Horns TL Bureau, Singapore

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA), the Singapore Maritime Officers’ Union (SMOU), the Singapore Organisation of Seamen (SOS) and the Singapore Shipping Association (SSA) are calling upon ships in the Port of Singapore to sound their horns for 15 seconds at 12 noon (Singapore local time) on Labour Day. The maritime tripartite initiative serves as a special tribute to recognise the contributions of seafarers in keeping supply chains robust and maritime trade going amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. In Singapore, 1 May marks Labour Day, which is an occasion to acknowledge the valuable contributions of our workers and to reaffirm the commitment of labour

movement leaders, employers and the government to safeguard the interests of workers. The International Chamber of Shipping and the International Transport Workers Federation have jointly called upon countries to recognise seafarers as key workers of global trade, and to shed light on the important work they carry out in the ongoing pandemic. Ms Quah Ley Hoon, MPA’s Chief Executive, said, “Singapore is grateful to every member of our maritime workforce for their tireless contributions over the years in building Singapore into a global hub port and an international maritime centre. In these challenging times, we wish to show our appreciation to maritime personnel, especially seafarers, and stand in solidarity

to ensure that global trade and supply lines stay resilient to support pandemic response around the world.” Due to travel restrictions brought about by COVID-19, we understand the challenges that seafarers face and have worked closely with employers and MPA to address the crew change situation prudently.” Ms Caroline Yang, SSA’s President, said, “Most of what we buy and consume are delivered by ships. As a key maritime node in the world dependent on seafarers for the most energy-efficient and environmentallyfriendly mode of transporting cargo, let us laud these unsung heroes who are keeping countries supplied with essentials such as food, fuel and medical supplies, not only during the COVID-19 pandemic, but daily,

TL Bureau, Singapore

MPA Announces MaritimeSG Together Package for Maritime Companies, Individuals and Seafarers

The corruption situation in Singapore remains firmly under control. CPIB received 350 corruption-related reports in 2019, a slight dip compared to the 358 reports received in 2018. Public sector cases continue to form the minority (10%) of all the cases registered for investigation in 2019. Singapore is wellregarded by the international community for our anti-corruption efforts, with the Transparency International (TI) Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2019 ranking Singapore 4th out of 180 countries and territories, with a high score of 85. In the latest Political & Economic Risk Consultancy 2020 Corruption Survey, Singapore maintained top position and improved its score to 1.73 as compared to a score of 1.85 the previous year (zero being the best score).

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will provide further financial support to the maritime industry in the wake of the global COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) outbreak. The maritime sector is key to Singapore’s economy. Sea trade, which accounts for over 80% of global trade, is particularly important during this time to ensure the flow of essential goods including food and medicine. To provide support to the industry, MPA has announced the MaritimeSG Together Package which will take effect from 1 May 2020. This is on top of previous measures announced under

Corruption Situation in Singapore Remains Firmly in Control

TL Bureau, Singapore

the Unity, Resilience and Solidarity Budgets. The MaritimeSG Together Package, amounting to about $27 million, will provide: a) Financial support to companies; b) Financial support to individuals for training; and c) Financial and employment support to Singaporean seafarers. Financial support for maritime companies and individuals. 30% port dues concession for all cargo vessels To help vessel owners and operators of cargo vessels, MPA will provide a 30% port dues concession [1] for cargo vessels [2] from 1 May to 31 Dec [3] 2020. MPA will also grant a 30% port dues concession for all non passenger-carrying harbourcraft

in the Port of Singapore over the same period. 50% rebate on counter rental and overnight berthing for regional ferry operators. MPA has earlier announced a 35% rebate to regional ferry operators to offset their monthly rental fees for overnight berthing of vessels and counter rental at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal for three months starting Mar 2020. With effect from 1 May 2020, MPA will increase this support to 50% until 31 Dec 2020. Upskilling and digital transformation To strengthen longer-term capabilities, MPA will introduce new manpower schemes and increase the co-funding provided under selected Maritime Cluster Fund programmes, from 1 May to 31 Dec 2020.

Hong Kong Public services resume May 4

TL Bureau, Hong Kong

To align with the phased resumption of public services, various government departments have announced their latest arrangements. The Department of Justice’s public services will resume normal from May 4. The reception counters of the department’s Prosecutions Division and Civil Division will be open Monday to Friday from 9am to 1pm and 2pm to 6pm. The Legal Aid Department’s offices will resume normal office hours on May 4 to provide public services including civil and criminal legal aid application and litigation services. The Government Logistics Department’s collection office will resume normal operation from May 4 and open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. The Lands Department’s offices will resume public counter services and enquiry telephone lines on

CONTINUATION OF INTERMITTENT LANES CLOSURE BY STAGES ALONG SUNGAI BESI HIGHWAY NEAR KAMPUNG MALAYSIA RAYA (SUNGAI BESI BOUND & KUCHAI LAMA BOUND) Date: 30 April 2020 – 30 May 2020 Time: 11:00pm – 5:00am

May 4, providing services such as payment of government rent and premiums, map sales, and collection of compensation for land resumption. Except for the surveying services to be conducted outside Hong Kong, all services of the Marine Department will resume starting May 4. The Rating & Valuation Department will resume normal operation of public services from May 4, with its enquiry counters opening from 8.15am to 6pm from Monday to Friday, except on public holidays. The Civil Engineering & Development Department said office hours for the Civil Engineering Library, applications for dumping licences and sand removal permits, and the Mines Division’s Permit & Licensing Office will return to normal on May 4. Public services of the Water Supplies Department, the Planning Department, the Drainage Services Department and

the Inland Revenue Department will resume normal on May 4. Starting from May 4, the Registration & Electoral Office’s enquiry counter and offices, the Building Department’s public counter services and service counters under the Labour Department will reopen. The Independent Commission Against Corruption’s headquarters and regional offices will also resume normal services from May 4. While the Housing Authority’s estate management offices, Public Rental Housing Application Office in the Lok Fu Customer Service Centre, the Clearance Housing Office and the Redevelopment Sub-section Offices will reinstate normal services from May 4. Flat selection sessions of the Territory-wide Overcrowding Relief Exercise, the Living Space Improvement Transfer Scheme and Sale of Home Ownership Scheme Flats 2019 will gradually resume from May 8.

Notice by MRT Corp

MALAYSIA & NEARBY

SC AND BURSA EXTEND TEMPORARY SHORT SELLING SUSPENSION AMID COVID-19 VOLATILITY

TL Bureau, Kuala Lumpur

The temporary suspension, which began on 24 March 2020 was initially targeted to end on 30 April 2020. It was introduced by the SC and Bursa Malaysia, as part of a slew of proactive measures to mitigate potential risks arising from heightened volatility and global uncertainties as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. It involves the suspension of Intraday Short Selling (IDSS) and Regulated Short Selling (RSS), as well as intraday short selling by Proprietary Day Traders. The suspension does not however apply to Permitted Short Selling (PSS). The extension of the temporary suspension will ensure that market management measures are still in place, to manage risks within the prevailing uncertain and challenging environment amid Covid-19 pandemic, as well as to mitigate any excessive speculative

The Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and Bursa Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Malaysia) have extended the temporary suspension of short-selling to 30 June 2020. activities in the marketplace. The temporary suspension of short selling remains a short-term measure to provide stability and confidence in the Malaysian capital market. Both the SC and Bursa Malaysia will continue to monitor developments affecting the securities market and evaluate the adequacy of existing measures to support an orderly market and to mitigate potential risks.

RENTAL WAIVER TO HELP MRT STATION RETAILERS TL Bureau, Kuala Lumpur

Mass Rapid Transit Corporation Sdn 8hd fMRT Corp, is waiving three (31 months’ rental f or retailers operating at the MRT Sungai Buloh¬kang (SI/K1 Line stations beginning 1 April 2020. The waiver is in line with the Government’s decision for all government-owned companies to implement steps to help businesses which are currently facing difficulties due to the impact of the global Covid-19 pandemic. In announcing this. MRT Corp Chief Executive Officer Encik Abdul Yaiid Kassim hop. that the rental waiver will help the retailers to weather the tough business environment caused by the Movement Control Order. ‘Our retailers depend very much on commuters and the free movement of .ple. With the MCO, public transport usage has drop. drastically and this has impacted the business of the outlet, he said. He said nine companies with 39 outlets between them .11 benefit from the waWer which will result in cumulat. savings of about RM 400,000.00. About 80% of the retailers at the SBK Line stations are convenience stores. Since passenger numbers had dropped significant, due to limited train operations during the MCO, many of the retailers have opted to temporary close in order to minimise operational costs.

BUSINESS

National Tourism Restart Taskforce Established

TL Bureau, Canberra

Australian Chamber – Tourism, the national peak body for tourism organisations, is pleased to announce the formation of the Tourism Restart Taskforce. The Taskforce will provide advice to industry and Government on the short, medium and longterm priorities to rebuild tourism in Australia.The Taskforce will be Chaired by industry icon, Jeremy Johnson AM, the Immediate Past President of the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and former CEO of the major regional tourist attraction, Sovereign Hill. Members of the Taskforce are: Jeremy Johnson (Chair) • Bob East (Experience Co, Tourism Australia) • The Hon. Martin Ferguson (Tourist Accommodation Australia) • Geoff Donaghy (BECA, ASM Global, ICC Sydney) • Graham (Skroo) Turner (Flight Centre) • Denis Pierce (Australian Tourism Export Council) • Sarina Bratton (Ponant) • Nikki Govan (Star of Greece, Business SA) • The Hon. Bruce Baird (Business Events Sydney, TTF)

• Jacqui Walshe (The Walshe Group) • John Hart (Australian Chamber – Tourism) • John Hart, Executive Chair of Australian Chamber Tourism, said: “The Taskforce will liaise with many facets of the Government’s recovery machinery and will embrace the local, intrastate, interstate and international tourism restart effort. “Travel, tourism, business events and hospitality have undoubtedly been the

hardest hit by the COVID19 crisis. Given they have traditionally been huge job generators, a successful restart will be an integral part of the nation’s economic recovery. “Australian businesses in these sectors are either closed or have minimal trade due to the border closures, movement and gathering restrictions.” The Chair of the Taskforce, Jeremy Johnson AM, said: “What is required now is a considered and careful plan to restart Australia’s third largest export industry and one of its biggest

employers. “The exceptional group of tourism leaders assembled in this Taskforce will give Australian tourism the best chance of positioning itself for long-term growth after the restart period. Tourism Australia, working with the State Tourism Bodies and the visitor economy sector, will create the demand for visitation as we emerge from the COVID19 crisis; the Taskforce will focus on the structure to ensure all tourism businesses can deliver on that promise,” Mr Johnson said.

“TechSprint encapsulates one of the core principles of the BIS Innovation Hub, which is to develop public goods in the technology space to enhance the functioning of the global financial system,” said Benoît Cœuré, Head of the BIS Innovation Hub. Commenting on the launch from the Saudi G20 presidency, the Governor of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Authority, Ahmed Alkholifey, said: “Alongside the BIS Innovation Hub, we look to the global fintech community to help mobilize effective solutions to pressing financial regulatory and supervisory challenges, including by supporting regulatory and supervisory responses against the COVID19 pandemic.” He added: “The G20 TechSprint Initiative will support the efforts of supervisors and regulators in reaping the benefits of technology to ensure that the global financial system continues to support households and businesses.” Interested private firms can compete and develop innovative solutions to

these problems using the cloud-based APIX platform that facilitates registration, prototype building and online judging of submissions. It will also enable solution providers to utilise a custombuilt environment to integrate APIs to build and deploy prototypes for solving the challenge statements. “The APIX cloud-based innovation platform will facilitate a state-of-the-art remote hackathon that will help propel rapid innovation in the regulatory and supervisory space to benefit central banks, supervisory authorities and financial institutions around the world,” said MAS Chief Fintech Officer, Sopnendu Mohanty. •Selected participants will be invited to present their proposals in a virtual TechSprint Touchpoint workshop for national authorities and other stakeholders in July 2020. •An independent expert panel organized and sponsored by the Saudi G20 Presidency will choose these firms and identify the most promising solutions.

•Cash grants will be provided for each short-listed team to offset participation expenses. •Winners will be announced in October 2020 and cash prizes of US$50,000 per problem solved will be awarded by the Saudi G20 Presidency. •Winners will also be invited to showcase their submissions in November 2020. •The solutions of all shortlisted participants will feature in a special report on the event. TechSprint is taking place against the backdrop of the COVID-19 global pandemic. The initiative recognises that, notwithstanding the unprecedented challenges presented by the virus, financial regulators and supervisors will continue to ensure that the global financial system operates in a stable, efficient and inclusive manner. It also recognises that regulators and supervisors require the tools to identify vulnerabilities and share information domestically and across borders in real time. Competitors are encouraged to develop solutions that will support this process

Saudi G20 Presidency and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub invite global innovators to find solutions to the most pressing financial regulatory & supervisory challenges

TL Bureau, Riyadh

The Saudi G20 Presidency and the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) Innovation Hub today launched the G20 TechSprint Initiative to highlight the potential for new technologies to resolve regulatory compliance (RegTech) and supervision (SupTech) challenges. The BIS Innovation Hub, through its Singapore Centre, and the Saudi G20 Presidency have published high-priority RegTech/SupTech operational problems and invite private firms to develop innovative technological solutions. The problem statements identify challenges in regulatory reporting, analytics, and monitoring and supervision, and have been developed from submissions received from Financial Stability Board (FSB) member jurisdictions. The hackathon-style competition is also supported by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), the FSB, API Exchange (APIX), and the RegTech for Regulators Accelerator (R2A).

Business Expectations of Services and Manufacturing Sectors for 2Q20 TL Bureau, Singapore

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a significant challenge to businesses in Singapore and around the world. The containment measures implemented in many countries have led to a sharp fall in external demand and disrupted global supply chains, and affected businesses in externally- oriented sectors such as wholesale trade and manufacturing. Global travel restrictions have also had a severe impact on businesses in the accommodation and air transport sectors. Globally, measures to ‘flatten the curve’ have affected many businesses, especially those in consumer-facing sectors such as retail trade and food & beverage. It is therefore not surprising that many businesses surveyed are pessimistic about their near-term outlook.The health and safety of everyone in Singapore remains our immediate priority. The circuit breaker measures are needed to fight the COVID-19 outbreak, even though they will impact our economy. The Government will continue to extend support to businesses and workers to tide them through this difficult period. If all of us play our part and we are able to successfully reduce community transmissions, we will be able to start to gradually ease up on the measures that have been put in place and re-open our economy safely. Despite the challenges brought about by COVID-19, the fundamentals of Singapore’s economy remain strong. As long as employers, workers and the Government work closely together, we are confident that our businesses and workers will be able to adapt and emerge stronger, just as we had done in previous crises.

CBA passes First Home Loan Deposit Scheme milestone TL Bureau, Parramatta

A thousand Australians have now purchased a property with CommBank under the Australian Government’s First Home Loan Deposit Scheme. The Scheme, which launched on 1 January 2020, helps eligible first homebuyers purchase a home with a deposit of as little as 5%. In addition to the 1,000 customers who have purchased a home, CBA has helped a further 2,400 customers secure a place under the Scheme. CBA announced at the beginning of April that customers who have reserved a place under the Scheme who have not yet found a property, can now request to extend the deadline to find a property and enter a contract of sale for another 90 days.

FEATURE

COVID-19 & Immigration Detention:

What Can Governments and Other Stakeholders Do?

TL Bureau, Grand-Saconnex

Around the world today, we are witnessing the severe impacts of the use of migration-related detention on migrants, asylumseekers and refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic – indefinite detention in overcrowded facilities for some, prolonged situations of irregularity and fear of detention for others, heightened risk of infection for all: migrants, staff, their families, and their communities. Yesterday, the United Nations Network on Migration released urgently needed practical recommendations with guidance for States and stakeholders on preventing and responding to COVID-19 in the context of immigration detention. By focusing on the development of non-custodial alternatives based in the community, the

brief highlights steps that several governments have already taken to swiftly release migrants from detention and to provide access to healthcare, housing and other services regardless of migration status. The Network looks forward to feedback from all partners and to updating these recommendations on an ongoing basis. The Network’s Working Group on Alternatives to Detention – co-led by UNICEF, UNHCR and the International Detention Coalition – has developed this guidance in partnership amongst UN agencies and civil society. The recommendations have been informed by the broad and diverse experience of Working Group members, including UN agencies, civil society organizations and networks, young people, local governments and technical experts working on immigration detention and alternatives all over the globe.

The Network calls on States to introduce a moratorium on the use of immigration detention; to scale up and implement noncustodial community-based alternatives; to release all migrants in detention into alternatives, following strict safeguards and prioritizing children, families and other migrants in vulnerable situations; and to urgently improve overall conditions in places of immigration detention while we transition to alternatives. In releasing this guidance, the Network reminds States of their commitment in the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to prioritize alternatives to immigration detention, using detention as a measure of last resort only and working towards ending child immigration detention. The COVID-19 pandemic has created momentum for

alternatives to immigration detention as a viable solution to mitigate public health concerns while ensuring access to human rights and essential services for migrants. Together, let’s seize this opportunity to redouble our collaborative efforts, look beyond the current crisis, and showcase concretely how migration can be governed without resorting to immigration detention. The United Nations Network on Migration is committed to supporting all partners in pursuit of the implementation of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration, recognizing that this cooperative framework provides an invaluable tool for ensuring all in society can contribute to a collective response to COVID-19 and are protected equally against its impact. The United Nations Network on Migration was established

to ensure effective, timely and coordinated system-wide support to Member States in their implementation, follow up and review of the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration. The Working Group on Alternatives to Detention is one of six thematic working groups established under the Network, tasked with promoting the development and implementation of human rights-based alternatives to detention in the migration context. While the Network’s mandate is limited to migration and provides the context in which this policy brief has been written, UNHCR calls on States to also implement these recommendations where they apply to refugees and asylum-seekers and to protect the human rights and health of everyone equally, regardless of migration status.

IFC Strengthens Cooperation with COVID-19 & Immigration Detention: What Can Governments and Other Vietnam Institute of Directors, Helping Stakeholders Do? Companies Respond to COVID-19 TL Bureau, Hanoi

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group and the Vietnam Institute of Directors (VIOD) signed a new cooperation agreement on April 27 following the success of the partnership over the past two years. The continued cooperation will strengthen VIOD’s capacity in delivering professional development programs for boards of directors, helping raise Vietnamese companies’ corporate governance standards on par with its peers’ in the region. The signing was virtually hosted and witnessed by VIOD directors and members connected from different locations in Vietnam. “The fruitful collaboration and technical support from IFC and other stakeholders have been very effective to help position VIOD as a leading corporate governance practitioner and promoter in the market,” said Ha Thu Thanh, VIOD Board’s Chairperson. “This cooperation agreement is a further step forward in supporting VIOD to strengthen its capacity to respond to the market needs, especially during the most challenging times as the current COVID-19.” On April 5, 2020, VIOD celebrated its second anniversary,

marking its endless efforts to become a professional and pioneering organization in advancing corporate governance standards in Vietnam and supporting the professional development of board directors. “Past crisis experiences have proven that good corporate governance is a key driver in helping economies and companies recover,” said Kyle Kelhofer, IFC Country Manager for Vietnam, Cambodia and Lao PDR. “In partnership with the Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Government of Japan, IFC’s continued support to VIOD will expand the joint efforts to promote good corporate governance practices by local companies toward sustainable development and positive contribution to the Vietnam’s economy.” With IFC’s support, a webinar on how corporate governance can help companies overcome crisis was also held on the same day for VIOD’s facilitators, directors and goodwill network members. About 50 attendees were presented with Vietnam’s economic and business sector reactions to COVID-19 outbreak and possible upcoming trends by Dr. Le Anh Tuan, Deputy

Chief Investment Officer, Head of Research of Dragon Capital. While the crisis is currently causing negative impacts on the whole economy, it also is an occasion for companies to assess how good corporate governance can help them weather the crisis successfully, drawing on the experiences including Thailand’s financial crisis experience more than two decades ago. At the event, Dr. Bandid Nijathaworn, Chairman of Foundation for Public Policy and Good Governance and Former President & CEO of the Institute of Directors of Thailand discussed measures that can better ensure companies’ resilience and enable a dynamic recovery from the crisis. “Crisis provides an opportunity to reassess or strengthen what we have to achieve a better future outcome, said Dr. Bandid Nijathaworn. “Companies that can rise to the challenges in this crisis will be those that are financially sound, resilient, and gain the trust of the public.” With IFC’s support, this webinar is the first among a series to be organized over the next three months to help VIOD member companies stand firm and quickly recover from the COVID-19 crisis.

TL Bureau, United Nations Network on Migration

Around the world today, we are witnessing the severe impacts of the use of migration-related detention on migrants, asylum-seekers and refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic – indefinite detention in overcrowded facilities for some, prolonged situations of irregularity and fear of detention for others, heightened risk of infection for all: migrants, staff, their families, and their communities. Yesterday, the United Nations Network on Migration released urgently needed practical recommendations with guidance for States and stakeholders on preventing and responding to COVID-19 in the context of immigration detention. By focusing on the development of non-custodial alternatives based in the community, the brief highlights steps that several governments have already taken to swiftly release migrants from detention and to provide access to healthcare, housing and other services regardless of migration status. The Network looks forward to feedback from all partners and to updating these recommendations on an ongoing basis. The Network’s Working Group on Alternatives to Detention – coled by UNICEF, UNHCR and the International Detention Coalition – has developed this guidance in partnership amongst UN agencies and civil society. The recommendations have been informed by the broad

and diverse experience of Working Group members, including UN agencies, civil society organizations and networks, young people, local governments and technical experts working on immigration detention and alternatives all over the globe. The Network calls on States to introduce a moratorium on the use of immigration detention; to scale up and implement non-custodial community-based alternatives; to release all migrants in detention into alternatives, following strict safeguards and prioritizing children, families and other migrants in vulnerable situations; and to urgently improve overall conditions in places of immigration detention while we transition to alternatives. In releasing this guidance, the Network reminds States of their commitment in the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to prioritize alternatives to immigration detention, using detention as a measure of last resort only and working towards ending child immigration detention. The COVID-19 pandemic has created momentum for alternatives to immigration detention as a viable solution to mitigate public health concerns while ensuring access to human rights and essential services for migrants. Together, let’s seize this opportunity to redouble our collaborative efforts, look beyond the current crisis, and showcase concretely how migration can be governed without resorting to immigration detention.

life and real estate

PAHO Director calls for continued immunization to avoid risk of other outbreaks during COVID-19 pandemic

TL Bureau, Washington, D.C.

would take months or even years to reverse,” she added. A priority for countries, she said, is to “vaccinate to protect health workers, the elderly and vulnerable populations from other respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumococcus, which can lead to more hospitalizations and may be harder to diagnose in the context of COVID-19.” Maintaining capacity in vaccination is also key to ensuring the Region’s “readiness to deliver the vaccine for COVID 19” when it is developed, Dr Etienne noted. This week, “Vaccination Week in the Americas is a time to promote and celebrate the lifesaving power of vaccines. In 2020, we approach it with an acute sense of urgency,” she

said, adding, “History has shown us that after wars or epidemics, if we allow large gaps in immunization coverage, vaccine preventable diseases like polio and measles can reemerge.” While measles was eliminated in the Americas in 2016, “As coverage rates dropped we faced outbreaks in Venezuela, Brazil, and Colombia and in a few states in the US. As we speak, at least three countries are working to contain measles outbreaks in Latin America,” said the PAHO Director. “Efforts to control measles must continue, safely, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, or we risk erasing more than 20 years of progress,” she warned. As of April 27, more than one million cases of COVID-19

PAHO Director calls for continued immunization to avoid risk of other outbreaks during COVID-19 pandemic

TL Bureau, Washington, D.C.

The Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), Carissa F. Etienne, today urged for vaccination programs to continue during the COVID-19 pandemic. “If we fall behind on routine immunizations, particularly for children, we risk outbreaks, thus overwhelming hospitals and clinics with preventable diseases in addition to COVID-19,” said Dr. Etienne. In a press briefing updating the situation, Dr Etienne said, “until a vaccine for COVID19 is available, immunizations can and must be delivered by the health services alongside the response” to the pandemic. If countries fail to do this, “the impact on our health systems would take months or even years to reverse,” she added. A priority for countries, she said, is to “vaccinate to protect health workers, the elderly and vulnerable populations from other respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumococcus, which can lead to more hospitalizations and may be harder to diagnose in the context of COVID-19.” Maintaining capacity in vaccination is also key to ensuring the Region’s “readiness to deliver

the vaccine for COVID 19” when it is developed, Dr Etienne noted. This week, “Vaccination Week in the Americas is a time to promote and celebrate the lifesaving power of vaccines. In 2020, we approach it with an acute sense of urgency,” she said, adding, “History has shown us that after wars or epidemics, if we allow large gaps in immunization coverage, vaccine preventable diseases like polio and measles can re-emerge.” While measles was eliminated in the Americas in 2016, “As coverage rates dropped we faced outbreaks in Venezuela, Brazil, and Colombia and in a few states in the US. As we speak, at least three countries are working to contain measles outbreaks in Latin America,” said the PAHO Director. “Efforts to control measles must continue, safely, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, or we risk erasing more than 20 years of progress,” she warned. As of April 27, more than one million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in the Americas, and 60,211 people have died. “We are seeing a growing number of countries with ongoing community transmission: 3 in North America, 7 in South America, 1 in Central

America, and 1 in the Caribbean,” said Dr. Etienne. “PAHO continues to work closely with member States to strengthen surveillance. Based on everything we know, it’s vital that countries reinforce protective measures now and use all tools available to them. This includes proven public health interventions like social distancing, testing, isolating cases and contact tracing,” she added. To help countries plan and make decisions on which vaccines to prioritize during the COVID-19 pandemic, PAHO has issued detailed guidance, which considers both potential risks and the burden of the pandemic on health systems. Tis guidance recommends that governments prioritize those vaccines for diseases that have an imminent risk of expanding in that area, such as measles, and those for other respiratory infections, such as flu and Pneumococcus. Regarding vaccination efforts in the Region, the director said “our teams at PAHO are supporting every step of the process. We are training health workers and educating communities. We are working harder than ever to ensure that this pandemic doesn’t disrupt vital immunization services.”

have been reported in the Americas, and 60,211 people have died. “We are seeing a growing number of countries with ongoing community transmission: 3 in North America, 7 in South America, 1 in Central America, and 1 in the Caribbean,” said Dr. Etienne. “PAHO continues to work closely with member States to strengthen surveillance. Based on everything we know, it’s vital that countries reinforce protective measures now and use all tools available to them. This includes proven public health interventions like social distancing, testing, isolating cases and contact tracing,” she added. To help countries plan and make decisions on which

vaccines to prioritize during the COVID-19 pandemic, PAHO has issued detailed guidance, which considers both potential risks and the burden of the pandemic on health systems. Tis guidance recommends that governments prioritize those vaccines for diseases that have an imminent risk of expanding in that area, such as measles, and those for other respiratory infections, such as flu and Pneumococcus. Regarding vaccination efforts in the Region, the director said “our teams at PAHO are supporting every step of the process. We are training health workers and educating communities. We are working harder than ever to ensure that this pandemic doesn’t disrupt vital immunization services.”

100% OF GLOBAL DESTINATIONS NOW HAVE COVID-19 TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS, UNWTO REPORTS TL Bureau, Madrid Following up on previous research, the latest data from the United Nations specialized agency for tourism shows that 100% of destinations now have restrictions in place. Of these, 83% have had COVID-19-related restrictions in place already for four or more weeks and, as of 20 April, so far no destination has lifted them. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “Tourism has shown its commitment to putting people first. Our sector can also lead the way in driving recovery. This research on global travel restrictions will help support the timely and responsible implementation of exit strategies, allowing destinations to ease or lift travel restrictions when it is safe to do so. This way, the social and economic benefits that tourism offers can return, providing a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries.” Tracking Restrictions by Time and Severity The social and economic benefits that tourism offers can return, providing a path to sustainable recovery for both individuals and whole countries. As well as a general overview, the UNWTO research breaks down the type of travel restrictions that have been introduced by

destinations in all of the global regions, while also plotting the evolution of these restrictions since 30 January – when the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. The latest analysis shows that, of 217 destinations worldwide: 45% have totally or partially closed their borders for tourists - “Passengers are not allowed to enter” 30% have suspended totally or partially international flights - “all flights are suspended” 18% are banning the entry for passengers from specific countries of origin or passengers who have transited through specific destinations 7% are applying different measures, such as quarantine or self-isolation for 14 days and visa measures. Against this backdrop, UNWTO has been leading calls for governments worldwide to commit to supporting tourism through this unprecedented challenge. According to Secretary-General Pololikashvili, the sudden and unexpected fall in tourism demand caused by COVID-19 places millions of jobs and livelihoods at risk while at the same time jeopardising the advances made in sustainable development and equality over recent years.

SPORTS

BMW M Customer Racing teams take to the virtual track in BMW race cars.

Sim racing highlights are coming thick and fast at the moment. Several BMW M Customer Racing teams are always at the heart of the action and have recognised the signs of the time and expanded their activities to include the virtual world. We introduce two teams who regularly take to the track in virtual BMW race cars: Walkenhorst Motorsport and Turner Motorsport.

TL Bureau, Munich

Sim racing highlights are coming thick and fast at the moment. Last weekend, the calendar featured the iRacing 24h Nürburgring powered by VCO. On Thursday it is round three of the IMSA iRacing Pro Series, while the Digital Nürburgring Endurance Series powered by VCO continues returns with race four on Saturday. Several BMW M Customer Racing teams are always at the heart of the action and have recognised the signs of the time and expanded their activities to include the virtual world. We introduce two teams who regularly take to the track in virtual BMW race cars: Walkenhorst Motorsport and Turner Motorsport. The Nürburgring-Nordschleife (GER) has been the racing home of Walkenhorst Motorsport for many years. While the team from Melle (GER) has enjoyed great success for BMW M Motorsport at the 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps (BEL) and in the Intercontinental GT Challenge, the ‘Green Hell’ has a very special appeal for the team. When it became apparent that real motor racing was not going to be possible for the foreseeable future, the decision to enter the world of was a logical one for team manager Niclas Königbauer. “We very quickly hit upon sim racing on the Nordschleife. Esports has been on our list for a long time. However, for time reasons, it has never made it to the top of the list.” Without any major preparation or

professional help from a sim racing team, Walkenhorst Motorsport assembled two teams within a short time frame. So far, they have fielded two BMW Z4 GT3s in all the races in the DNLS powered by VCO. Many of Walkenhorst Motorsport’s regular drivers take their place at the wheel of their racing simulators at home: David Pittard (GBR), Mikkel Jensen (DEN) and Christian Krognes (NOR). They are supported by sim racers Scott and Sam Michaels (both GBR), but are also investing a huge amount of time in getting up to the standard of the top sim racers who compete on the virtual Nordschleife every week. Podium already for Walkenhorst Motorsport.

WEST APPOINTED PERFORMANCE LEAD

TL Bureau, Fitzroy

Netball Australia is delighted to announce Stacey West as its new Executive General Manager of Performance. West will oversee all aspects of the sport’s talent pathway program, coordinate the appointment of a new national coach and ensure the Origin Australian Diamonds remain the world’s number-one ranked netball team. West has worked for Netball Australia for almost nine years and been a part of the organisation’s athlete pathway program the entire time, most recently as General Manager of Performance and Pathways and as Netball Australia’s Pathway Manager prior to that. Before joining

Netball Australia, West gained an extensive experience as a player, coach and selector within high performance netball programs both domestically and internationally, entering Netball Australia’s pathway as an athlete herself at a young age and continuing her involvement as an elite coach and as a selector. West is excited and honoured to be appointed into the position and looks forward to the challenge ahead. “Having been a part of the Netball Australia athlete pathway for almost nine years, I’m proud to work within a system that not only develops and nurtures talent, but provides everyone involved the opportunity to be great, from athletes through to the coaches and support staff,” she said.

All that effort has paid dividends already. In the latest DNLS race, both Walkenhorst Motorsport BMW Z4 GT3s were in contention at the front of the field. In the end, Pittard, Scott and Sam Michaels made it onto the podium in second place. Jensen and Krognes were also among the front-runners for much of the race, despite not being supported by a sim racer. “In reality, we have some of the best drivers on the Nordschleife in our team,” said Königbauer. “As the simulations are now incredibly close to reality, I was confident that our guys would get up to speed relatively quickly, despite their lack of experience. For us to achieve a podium so soon was not necessarily expected.”

One Walkenhorst Motorsport engineer, whose primary role ahead of the race is to discuss the right set-up and strategies with Königbauer and the drivers, has also contributed to the success. That will once again be the case this weekend, and throughout the whole season in the DNLS powered by VCO. It is not yet certain whether this may result in more outings in other racing series and BMW cars. “Our focus, when real motor racing hopefully resumes at some point, is to continue to run what we are starting now on the sim racing scene,” said Königbauer. “We are examining other options with great interest, however we must always weigh up whether they are possible without having

to hand over the whole project.” Turner Motorsport puts its faith in the virtual BMW M8 GTE. While Walkenhorst Motorsport is focussing on races on the virtual Nordschleife, Turner Motorsport is taking on the digital racetracks of North America with the BMW M8 GTE. In the real world, Will Turner’s team fields the BMW M6 GT3 in the GTD class of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship and the BMW M4 GT4 in various racing series. On the sim racing scene, it currently runs a BMW M8 GTE in the team’s classic blue and yellow livery in the IMSA iRacing Pro Series, in which the circuit in Mid-Ohio (USA) hosts round three of the season this Thursday.

NFL TO PROVIDE eLEARNING OPPORTUNITIES FOR ROOKIES AND COLLEGIATE STUDENT-ATHLETES TL Bureau, California

The National Football League, in conjunction with Game Plan, announced today a customized eLearning curriculum for NFL rookies and collegiate studentathletes across the country. Combining interactive workshops with innovative tools, the content is designed to provide personal and professional skill-building opportunities that will benefit players during and after their playing experience. “Throughout history, football has adjusted to each generation’s communications and learning preferences,” said Troy Vincent, NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations. “This platform meets studentathletes and NFL players on the device of their choice and delivers curriculum and resources to assist

them as they transition through their athletic and professional journey.” The Rookie Success Programming, administered to newly drafted and undrafted NFL rookies, is an onboarding platform that provides educational resources to aid in a successful transition to the NFL. In collaboration with each club, NFL Player Engagement staff will discuss available resources, programs and benefits, as well as player policies, financial education, social responsibility and working with the media. Available to 130 Division I FBS college football programs across 10 conferences, the collegiate curriculum includes courses on maximizing campus resources, the football experience on and off the field, the importance of role models and mentorship, Combine preparation and the NFL scouting

evaluation process. The courses are available and being administered to student-athletes by their institution’s football and academic athletic administrator. All eLearning courses will be available through Game Plan’s app-based platform, which can be accessed by mobile device, tablet or desktop computer. “We are so proud to work with the NFL to provide customized content for collegiate student-athletes and NFL rookies,” said Vin McCaffrey, CEO of Game Plan. “Their efforts directly align with our mission to guide athletes throughout their journey, and we are excited to deliver a new, cutting edge educational tool to engage with them.” The eLearning courses, the latest enhancement to the NFL’s College Outreach Program, provide college football programs with a year-round curriculum for continued education and growth.

tech/auto

BMW Welt to reopen vehicle collection, sales rooms and showrooms from May 4.

The Bavarian State Government has now eased its regulations and measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus. As a result, BMW Welt will be reopening its vehicle collection service, sales rooms and showrooms from May 4. Customers can therefore once again collect their new BMW in person at BMW Welt. TL Bureau, Munich. The Bavarian State Government has now eased its regulations and measures to curb the spread of the coronavirus. As a result, BMW Welt will be reopening its vehicle collection service, sales rooms and showrooms from May 4. Customers can therefore once again collect their new BMW in person at BMW Welt. In addition, a limited number of visitors can get personal advice on new vehicles in the BMW Welt showrooms, or pop into the BMW Welt Lifestyle & Accessory Shop to purchase from a wide range of highquality, BMW and MINI branded products. Of course, the health of our customers and employees continues to be our main priority, so vehicle handovers, consultations and sales will be carried out in compliance with all official safety regulations and measures. For example, customers collecting their vehicles at BMW Welt will be shown to a private area of our unique BMW Product Info Center where they will be given a virtual demonstration of all the functions of their new BMW. Customers who have planned to pick up their vehicles at BMW Welt on or after May 4 should contact their BMW partner for further information. For the time being, the sales rooms and showrooms at BMW Welt will be open again for customers and browsers from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. Cooper’s bistro will be serving take-away food and

drink. The BMW Museum, BMW Group Classic and other restaurants in all

Automobili Lamborghini prepares to restart production on May 4 with people-safety foremost

our premises will remain closed to the public until further notice. There will also be no guided tours, public

events or workshops (for example at the BMW Welt Junior Campus). We apologize to all our customers and

visitors for the inconvenience and look forward to welcoming them back soon.

speed: he reaches the top speed of exactly 490.484 km/h (304.773 mph) in a Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+2. A world record for Bugatti. At the same time, Bugatti is the first car manufacturer ever to break the magical 300 mph (482,80 km/h) barrier. Being a professional through and

through, there is no one better to present the Bugatti Chiron: In a series of five video clips, he explains the car’s technical details in a comprehensible manner and reveals how to get everything out of the hyper sports car while staying safe. Fasten your seatbelts!

Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace explains the Chiron

TL Bureau, Molsheim

TL Bureau, Sant’Agata Bolognese Automobili Lamborghini is set to resume its production activities from 4 May, in accordance with the Italian Prime Minister’s decree of 26 April. The SantAgata Bolognese company is currently completing all preparatory measures to ensure its people return to work in conditions of maximum safety. While company activities were temporarily suspended, Lamborghini repurposed some of its departments to produce medical

protection masks and visors for St. Orsola Hospital in Bologna, and established a partnership with SIARE Engineering International Group for co-engineering and manufacturing breathing simulators. The preparation for the 4 May reopening has been the subject of ongoing discussion and definition within the Joint Committee of the Company and Trade Unions on the COVID-19 emergency, set up in the wake of the temporary suspension of company activities on March 13.

No other driver spends so much time in a Bugatti Chiron1like he does: Andy Wallace. In the last few years, the Englishman and Bugatti Pilote Officiel covered a total of over 150,000 km with the extraordinary vehicles from Molsheim. A true professional. He’s been testing Bugatti cars and taking customers to the limits of driving physics since 2011. But not only them: He spent more than 30 years as a racing driver. He competed in both the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona on 21 occasions, winning the Le Mans endurance classic once and Daytona three times. In the summer of 2019, Wallace proves in a quite spectacular way that he is a lover of incredible

12 Oman Reports 74 New Cases of COVID-19 TL Bureau, Muscat

The Omani Ministry of Health reported 74 new coronavirus cases during the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of confirmed cases in the Sultanate of Oman to 2,348. Oman News Agency (ONA) quoted the ministry as saying that the total recoveries from the virus reached 495.

SA records 5 647 COVID-19 cases TL Bureau, Cape Town

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in South Africa is now 5 647, an increase of 297 cases from Wednesday, 29 April. The total number of tests conducted to date is 207 530, of which 10 403 were done in the last 24 hours, the Department of Health said on Thursday. The provincial breakdown is as follows: Western Cape: 2 342 Gauteng: 1 446 KwaZulu-Natal: 980 Eastern Cape: 647 Free State: 116 Mpumalanga: 36 Limpopo: 32 North West: 31 Northern Cape: 17

world

COVID-19 OR NOT WE SECURE THE SKIES

NATO aircraft have been busy over the past two days intercepting Russian aircraft flying close to NATO airspace.

TL Bureau, RAMSTEIN On 28 April Polish fighters were scrambled under NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission from Estonia to identify two Russian Tu-160 long range bombers, escorted by several fighters and supported by an Airborne Early Warning aircraft. The formation was later intercepted again by fighters of the Royal Danish Air Force. NATO fighters across the Alliance remain ready and poised to protect Allied skies 24/7 On the same day a Russian Airborne Early Warning aircraft as well as two Russian Tu22 long range bombers with fighter escorts approached NATO airspace off the coast of Norway and were intercepted by

Norwegian fighter jets. On 29 April Norwegian fighters were scrambled twice more against two Russian Maritime Patrol aircraft, approaching NATO airspace close to Norway. After the first intercept by Norwegian F-16 aircraft, the

Spain’s virus death 23 positive cases tally lowest in weeks added over

TL Bureau, Madrid

Spain recorded its lowest daily coronavirus death tally in six weeks on Thursday, but data showing the economy shrank by the widest margin on record in the first three months of the year laid bare the heavy cost of measures to control the outbreak, Reuters reported. Spain has had one of the world’s worst outbreaks with more than 24,000 COVID-19 fatalities and in mid-March imposed one of the strictest lockdowns, though officials are confident the worst has passed and want to start easing measures next week. Across the

country, devastated businesses are contemplating how to return to normal in an environment where meticulous hygiene and social distancing will be of paramount importance. The number of fatalities related to the coronavirus recorded overnight in Spain fell to 268, the lowest since March 20, according to the health ministry. Cases rose to 213,435 - in a population of 47 million - from 212,917 the day before. Spain’s economy shrunk by 5.2% in the first quarter compared to the previous period, preliminary data showed

FC - Switzerland to provide CHF 400 million in support of international action to combat the coronavirus TL Bureau, Bern Developing countries are particularly vulnerable to Covid-19. The pandemic is compounding an already precarious situation in countries beset by poverty, armed conflict or natural disasters. To mitigate the consequences of the pandemic, the Federal Council has decided to provide the International Committee of the Red Cross

(ICRC) with a CHF 200 million interest-free loan and to contribute CHF 25 million to an IMF rapid credit facility to help countries address the pandemic. A further CHF 175 million is to be allocated to help strengthen internationally active organisations and international cooperation to tackle the Covid-19 pandemic. With these funds, Switzerland is showing solidarity during the global crisis.

previous 24h

Over last 24 hours, 1,563 SARS-CoV-2 virus tests causing COVID-19 were analysed, of which 23, i.e. 1.5% came back positive. TL Bureau, Tallinn

Based on Population Register data, Pärnu County had 16, Harju County 3, Tartu County 3, and Järva County 1 new case of the coronavirus. As of the morning of April 30, 75 people require hospitalisation due to the coronavirus, nine of them require ventilation. 249 people have been discharged, 10 of them were discharged during the previous 24h. Two residents of Pärnu Tammiste nursing care home died during the previous 24h due to the coronavirus. An 82-year old woman who died at Pärnu Hospital, and an 87-year old woman who diet at Tammiste care home had in addition to the coronavirus other comorbidities aggravating their condition. Total 52 people have died in Estonia due to the coronavirus.

Royal Air Force launched their Quick Reaction Alert Typhoon fighter aircraft from RAF Lossiemouth to meet and escort the Russian planes as they tracked south towards the North Sea. They operated around the North Sea and turned north where

Norwegian F-35 fighters met them and escorted them out of NATO’s area of interest. All intercepts were conducted in a professional manner, demonstrating that NATO fighters across the Alliance remain ready and poised to protect Allied skies 24/7.

FC - Coronavirus: Restrictions on entry to be gradually relaxed from 11 May TL Bureau, Bern

The Federal Council plans to gradually relax the restrictions on entry imposed as a result of the coronavirus crisis in step with the gradual reopening of the economy. From 11 May onwards, applications submitted by workers from the EU/EFTA and third countries before 25 March will

be processed (the backlog will be reduced). From this date, it should also be possible for family members of Swiss citizens and EU citizens to enter Switzerland. Border controls, however, will remain in place. The Federal Council has tasked the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP) with preparing these measures to ease the lockdown.

KSrelief Signs Agreement with UNRWA to Address Coronavirus in Gaza Strip TL Bureau, Riyadh King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has signed an agreement with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) to provide supplies and medical equipment for UNRWA to address

novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in Gaza Strip, Palestine. The agreement was signed by Advisor at the Royal Court and KSrelief Supervisor General Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah and by Philippe Lazzarini from UNRWA in the virtual meeting that was held between the two sides today.

United States Commends Germany for Banning Hizballah TL Bureau, Washington D.C. We commend Germany for banning Hizballah in its entirety as a terrorist organization and for taking strong action against suspected Hizballah supporters. Obstructing this terrorist organization’s ability to plot terrorist attacks and to raise money will further reduce Iran’s malign behavior and influence.

The world increasingly recognizes Hizballah for what it is – not a defender of Lebanon as it claims to be, but a terrorist organization dedicated to advancing Iran’s malicious agenda. In addition to killing many of their own compatriots, Iran-sponsored terrorist group Hizballah has American blood on its hands and continues to plot and carry out attacks around the world.