The Life News South Africa. Oct 1, 2020 by The Life News

News from World, Worldwide readership. Vol. 01 Issue 07 Oct. 01, 2020

Russia offers to host NKR peace talks

TL Bureau, Moscow

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

a war in 1988-1994 over the district. There are developing feelings of trepidation that worldwide forces could be hauled into the contention. On Wednesday, Mr Lavrov’s office said he had called the unfamiliar clergymen of both Armenia and Azerbaijan to state Russia was eager to have talks. Russian President Vladimir Putin

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

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

Antonio Guterres, the secretarygeneral of the United Nations, has again required a “quantum jump in help” for a worldwide immunization intend to contain the Covid pandemic, as the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and Sweden guaranteed almost $1bn in assets to help creating countries secure admittance to COVID-19 antibodies and medicines. The Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator and its COVAX office – drove by the World Health Organization and GAVI antibody union – has gotten $3bn, however needs a further $35bn, of which $15bn is required before the year’s over. Approximately 168 nations have now joined to COVAX, the UN said.

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

Chinese specialists have officially endorsed the captures of 12 Hong Kong activists got a month ago while supposedly attempting to escape the domain for Taiwan. The gathering was gotten approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of the city on August 23 while attempting to escape by vessel, specialists said at that point, adding that they were given to police in Shenzhen, the southern terrain city flanking Hong Kong. The 12 had since vanished into China’s misty legal framework, with legal advisors battling to get to them and relatives communicating dread over their destiny.

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

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

going to allude to the Chinese last names of prisoners Tang Kai-yin and Quinn Moon. The other 10 – incorporating suspects with the names Li

and Huang – were captured for making illicit fringe intersections. The case stays under scrutiny, the announcement included. Groups of the 12 said in an announcement they were “stunned and worried” by the endorsement. Hong Kong’s Security Bureau affirmed that territory specialists educated nearby police regarding Wednesday’s endorsement, however declined to remark on families’ grievances of legal advisors being banished from visiting the prisoners. A portion of those on board the vessel were confronting arraignment in Hong Kong for exercises connected to a year ago’s gigantic and frequently brutal favorable to popular government fights, as per experts in the domain.

attling among Armenian and Azerbaijani powers in the contested enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh proceeded for a third day Tuesday as allures for a truce were given by global pioneers. An Azerbaijani safeguard service representative said its powers had repulsed Armenian assaults in night fights along the line of contact between the different sides, devastating Armenian military hardware and work force. Protection Ministry Vagif Dargahli told neighborhood media that Armenian military assaulted its situations in the Fizuli locale however had to withdraw, deserting the assemblages of killed Armenian fighters. A whole Armenian mechanized rifle regiment “was totally demolished” in the fight, Dargahli stated, murdering in any event 10 Armenian warriors. Armenia, then, likewise announced battling for the duration of the night and said that Nagorno-Karabakh’s military had turned around assaults from a few bearings along

Till third day still clash between Armenia & Azerbaijan

the line of contact. “As of now, the units of the Defense Army are certainly repulsing all the endeavors of the foe assaults, causing substantial misfortunes of gear and labor,” the Armenian safeguard service said. Armenia guaranteed Azerbaijani military terminated on a unit in the bordertown of Vardenis numerous miles from the NagornoKarabakh locale after prior denying Azerbaijani cases that Armenian powers had terminated rockets into the Dashkesan area of Azerbaijan. Yerevan said Tuesday that a Turkish F-16 contender providing spread for the supposed attack on Vardenis destroyed an Armenian Su25 assault airplane, killing the pilot. Azerbaijan President Ilham Aliyev said 10 Azerbaijani regular folks had been

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

editorial

Turkey to utilize its impact with Baku to stop dangerous conflicts. “We approach all sides, particularly accomplice nations, for example, Turkey to do everything they can for a truce and return to a quiet settlement of this contention utilizing political and conciliatory methods,” Kremlin representative Dmitry Peskov told writers. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo each approached the two sides to stop the viciousness, while Pompeo and French President Emmanuel Macron encouraged the different sides to meet with the Minsk Group - a worldwide team made in 1992 to locate a quiet goal to the NagornoKarabakh impasse.

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world

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

TL Bureau, Ottawa, Ontario

Today, the Prime Ministers Justin Trudeau of Canada and Andrew Holness of Jamaica, and United Nations SecretaryGeneral António Guterres convened the second HighLevel event on Financing for Development in the Era of COVID‑19 and Beyond. Heads of state, governments, and international organizations met to discuss how to bolster and urgently accelerate our global

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

Kuwait’s Amiri Diwan (Emiri Court) announced here today the death of Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jabir Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait. The Kuwaiti News Agency (KUNA) reported a statement announced by the Emiri Court saying that: Amiri Diwan announce with utmost sorrow and sadness the death of the late, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmed Al-Jabir Al-Sabah, the Emir of Kuwait, to the Kuwaiti people, the Arab as well as the Islamic nations and the friendly peoples of the world. As the Emir of Kuwait passed away, the statement added, we pray to Allah to bestow upon him His abundant mercy and abode him in His vast paradise. To Allah we belong, and to Him we shall return, the statement concluded.

response to the immediate significant economic and human impacts of COVID‑19, and advance concrete solutions to international development over the medium and long-term. During the meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau announced an additional $400 million in international development funding this year. This new funding will go to trusted partners on the ground fighting COVID‑19, and will enable Canada to support the recovery

and resilience of developing countries. It will also address short-term humanitarian and development needs caused by the pandemic and other crises. The ultimate objective is to ensure that the development gains made over the past decade are not lost, and ensure that 2030 Agenda and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are not at risk. Canada will make sure that women and girls, who have been disproportionally

On 1 October, Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis will take part in the investiture of the two captains regent, the joint heads of state of the Republic of San Marino. The head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs was invited as official speaker at the ceremony. The official visit will also provide an opportunity to discuss bilateral and international issues.

leadership on financing for international development and is investing more while supporting developing countries on their economic recoveries and resilience. The Government of Canada recently committed $220 million through the COVAX Advance Market Commitment to purchase vaccine doses for low- and middle-income countries, because we cannot beat this virus unless we end it everywhere.

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

TL Bureau, Brussels

Our special meeting on Thursday and Friday will primarily focus on Europe’s place in the world and our capacity to shape our own destiny. Our meeting will start on Thursday at 15.00 with the traditional exchange of views with the President of the European Parliament, David Sassoli. We will then use our first working session for a debate on EU-China relations, following the EU-China leaders’ meeting via video conference on 14 September. We want to work with China on tackling major global challenges such as the COVID 19 pandemic and climate change. We also want

to insist on a more balanced and reciprocal economic relationship, ensuring a level playing field. And we will continue to promote our values and standards. At the end of the session, we will discuss current issues requiring our attention, namely the situation in Belarus, the poisoning of Alexei Navalny and the Nagorno-Karabakh escalation. The dinner will be entirely devoted to the situation in the Eastern Mediterranean and our relations with Turkey. Our objective is to create a space for a constructive dialogue with Turkey to achieve stability and security in the whole region, and to ensure full respect

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

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

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

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

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

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

for the sovereignty and sovereign rights of all EU Member States. This will only be possible if Turkey engages constructively. All options remain on the table to defend the legitimate interests of the EU and its Member States. The EU can only be strong on the international stage if it has a resilient and innovative economic base. COVID-19 has undoubtedly revealed some of the EU’s weaknesses. But I believe we should turn this into an opportunity, critically assessing together how to make the EU more resilient. Crucially, I would like us to discuss how we can best enhance the EU’s strategic autonomy alongside an

open and competitive social market economy. Against this backdrop, we will have an in-depth discussion on Friday morning on unlocking the full potential of the Single Market, developing an ambitious industrial policy and exploiting the opportunities offered by the latest digital developments. The exceptional recovery package, adopted in July, will help transform our economies and, along with the Green and Digital transitions, will support us achieve these ambitions. At the end of the meeting, we will provide a brief update on negotiations with the United Kingdom.

Lower fees in early childhood education and care fees – boosting employment and easing daily life for families TL Bureau, Helsinki Lower fees in early childhood education and care will increase employment and raise the participation rate in early childhood education and care. The first steps in the preparations for the Government proposal to reduce early childhood education and care (ECEC) fees are to raise the income thresholds by 31%. At the same time, the maximum fee for a family’s second child in ECEC will be reduced from 50% to 40%. A legislative proposal on the matter is scheduled to be submitted by the end of October. In its budget session in September, the Government decided that, as part of the employment measures, EUR 70 million will be allocated to early childhood education and care payments to local authorities, which corresponds to the decline in ECEC revenue in local government due to higher

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

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

Despite the relaxation of protective measures against the coronavirus on 11 May 2020, the labour market was strongly impacted in the 2nd quarter 2020. Compared with the 2nd quarter 2019, effective weekly working hours per employed person fell by 9.5%. The accommodation and food service activities sector saw the greatest decline in working hours (–54.1%). During the 2nd quarter 2020, almost one in two employees worked at home at least occasionally, a sharp increase compared with the previous year. These are some of the results of the Swiss Labour Force Survey (SLFS).

Social media are becoming more important for opinionforming TL Bureau, Biel/Bienne Social networks and journalistic online media are playing an increasing part in shaping people’s opinions in Switzerland. This is particularly true for the French-speaking population and for younger people. This is one of the conclusions reached by Media Monitor Switzerland for 2019 published by OFCOM on 29 September 2020.

world

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

TL Bureau, New Delhi

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh said today that the Contract Agreement, as per the Act brought in through the new Agricultural Laws , will be for the crops and not for the land, and alleged that the farmers are being misled to believe otherwise. Launching a campaign from his Lok Sabha constituency in support of the Farmers Laws brought in by the Modi Govt and against the disinformation being spread by the Congress Party, Dr Jitendra Singh was addressing the Party workers, Sarpanches and BDC Chairmen from the border villages and other areas of districts Kathua and Udhampur. Dr Jitendra Singh said, the irony is that while the common farmer is satisfied and has no apprehensions, it is some politically motivated interests which have no knowledge

or stake in farming but who are trying to make an issue out of it by trying to mislead the farmers. He said, it is in the interest of the farming community of India and common people at large, that all the like-minded people should come out and vociferously dispel the disinformation and the malicious campaign launched by the self-seeking elements. While the Bill clearly prohibits

sale, lease or mortgage of farmers’ land, Dr Jitendra Singh asked, where is the question of farmers’ land being taken over by certain capitalists as is being alleged? He said, the Bill clearly states that the Agreement will be for the crops and not for the land. Moreover, Dr Jitendra Singh said, the Contract Agreement with the farmers is to get the fixed price. Not only this, the new Act also

oppression, prostitution and trafficking in human beings. It is therefore proposed that the long-term task of the county administrative boards in this area continue on a permanent basis. This investment is worth SEK 100 million per year. Outside of the Swedish Prison and Probation Service, responsibility for relapse prevention for perpetrators of violence is unclear and, in many parts of the country, work has been insufficient despite

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

provides the provision for farmers to withdraw from the Contract at any time without any penalty, he said. Dr Jitendra Singh accused the opposition of taking up imaginary issues of contention which do not find any reference in the Laws . For example, he said, it is nowhere mentioned that the provision of MSP will be done away with at any point of time and yet the Congress Party and some others are trying to create false fears in the minds of innocent farmers. Dr Jitendra Singh appealed to party colleagues to reach out to each and every farmer in every village and explain to him the big conspiracy being hatched against him. This, he said, will enable the agricultural community to avail of the enormous welfare initiatives introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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

TL Bureau, Stockholm

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

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

Council finalises its position on the Horizon Europe package

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conference call with the participation of representatives of the Cabinet of Ministers and law enforcement agencies. The Head of State raised the issue of payments to the families of those killed in the crash of the An-26 aircraft near Chuhuiv. “Everything needs to be done to simplify bureaucratic procedures. These payments must be urgent. There is a law on social and legal protection of the military and members of their families, which provides for the procedure of such payments,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said that the Ministry of Defense has sufficient funds to make these payments. He noted that each family of the victims will receive about 1.5 million hryvnias.

The Council today finalised its position on the proposed regulation establishing Horizon Europe, the EU framework programme for research and innovation for the years 2021 to 2027 (Horizon Europe regulation) and on the proposed decision on the specific programme implementing Horizon Europe (specific programme decision). “Today’s agreement is an important step forward towards final adoption of Horizon Europe. We now need to make sure with the European Parliament and the Commission that our forward-looking EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation can enter into force in the beginning of the next year. This is our joint task – for the benefit of the European research and innovation community as well as the competitiveness of the EU.” Anja Karliczek, German federal minister of education and research

TL Bureau, Brussels

Payments are due over the next three weeks when DNA testing of the bodies will be carried out. Minister of Defense Andriy Taran informed the President that he banned the use of An-26 aircraft until the investigation into the

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

Standardization Agreements? TL Bureau, Brussels

Shortly after the formation of NATO in 1949, the Military Office for Standardization was established to improve interoperability among Allied armed forces. Today it is known as the NATO Standardization Office. Countries need to share a common set of standards, especially among military forces, to carry out multinational operations. By helping to achieve interoperability among NATO’s forces, as well as with those of its partners, standardization allows for more efficient use of resources and thus enhances the Alliance’s operational effectiveness. Each NATO Ally ratifies a Standardization Agreement, or STANAG, and implements it within their own military. STANAGs cover everything from ammunition to vehicles to training techniques for military working dogs. As the NATO Standardization Office approaches its 70th anniversary, its work is more important than ever for the Alliance. Challenges like cyber defence and space activities, and also new and emerging technologies, require a renewed focus on standardization efforts.

SOUTH AFRICA

Unemployment drops to 23.3% TL Bureau, Cape Town

Despite the South African economy shedding 2.2 million jobs due to the COVID-19 lockdown, unemployment in the country dropped to 23.3% in the second quarter of 2020, Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) has revealed. This finding is contained in the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), which reveals that the number of employed persons decreased by 2.2 million to 14.1 million, compared to the first quarter of 2020. “Contrary to what one might expect in the face of such a large decline in employment, unemployment declined substantially as well – decreasing by 2.8 million to 4.3 million, compared to quarter 1 of 2020, and resulting in a decrease of 5 million (down by 21.4%) in the number of people in the labour force,” Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said on Tuesday. Stats SA said despite the massive decline in employment, the number of discouraged work-seekers, like the number of unemployed, decreased by 447 000. During this period, the number of people who were not economically active for reasons other than discouragement increased by 5.6 million between the two quarters, resulting in a net increase of 5.2 million in the not economically active population. “These changes resulted in a significant decrease of 6.8 percentage points in the official

unemployment rate from 30.1% in quarter 1 of 2020, to 23.3% in quarter 2 2020,” the report found. This is the lowest rate recorded since Quarter 3 2009. The statistics service said the sharp fall in the unemployment rate in quarter 2 is not a reflection of an improvement in the labour market but rather an effect of the national lockdown, since the official definition of unemployment requires that people look for work and are available for work. “In essence, the national lockdown hindered people from looking for work, so this significant decline in unemployment while employment is declining is inherent in the official definition of unemployment. “The unemployment rate, according to the expanded definition of unemployment, increased by 2.3 percentage points to 42.0% in quarter 2 2020 compared to quarter 1 2020, reflective of the fact that people were available for work but did not actively look for work. “Almost all of the 5.2 million people who did not look for work for reasons other than discouragement indicated ‘national lockdown’ as the main reason for not looking for work. This phenomenon of a greater increase in inactivity than in unemployment is not unique to South Africa. “It has been observed in most countries across the world, with the exception of Canada and the United States, as highlighted in the recent ‘ILO monitor: COVID-19

and the world of work’ report. “So, the picture observed in South Africa is in line with the rest of the world,” Stats SA said. During this period, employment decreased in all sectors in quarter 2 2020. Formal sector employment decreased by 1.2 million (10.8%); the Informal sector shed 640 000 (21.9%) jobs; Private households shed 311 000 (23.6%) jobs, and employment in Agriculture declined by 66 000 (7.6%). All industries experienced job losses in quarter 2 2020 compared to quarter 1 2020. The industries which recorded the highest job losses were Community and social services (515 000), Trade (373 000), Private households (311 000), Finance (283 000), Construction (278 000) and Manufacturing (250 000). Employment also contracted in all industries year-on-year. The highest job losses were observed in Trade (482 000), Community and social services (379 000), Manufacturing (334 000) and Construction (297 000). To capture changes brought about by the national lockdown, some additional questions were included in the quarter 2:2020 questionnaire. Stats SA said respondents were asked if they were working from their usual place of work or working from home; whether they continued to receive salaries during lockdown; whether they received full or reduced salaries; whether they would be returning

to the same job/business after the lockdown, and whether they thought they might lose their jobs or their businesses would close in the foreseeable future due to COVID-19. Of the 14.2 million persons who were employed in the second quarter of 2020, more than half (58.1%) were expected to work during the national lockdown by the companies/organisations they work for. Stats SA said although most of those who worked during the national lockdown did so from their usual place of work, and about 17.0% indicated that they worked from home. The proportion of those who worked from home was higher in Gauteng and Western Cape than in the other provinces. The share of those who worked from home was higher among professionals (44.7%) and managers (40.6%), indicating access to tools of the trade to facilitate work from home. The majority of employed persons continued to receive pay during the lockdown. However, about one in five of them had a reduction in their pay/salary. “There seems to be some relationship between level of education and reduction in pay/salary. Almost 9 in every 10 employed graduates (89.7%) continued to receive a full salary, compared to 75.2% of those with less than matric as their highest level of education,” said Stats SA. – SAnews.gov.za

TL Bureau, Cape Town

and protecting lives, while allowing schooling to continue. As we know, PPEs are a key arsenal in an all-out war against the pandemic. “This donation of masks will go a long way to help to meet the moving target of providing PPE to learners,” she said. Despite the news that South Africa has reached the COVID-19 pandemic peak, Motshekga said the country remains at risk. “The virus isn’t on level two or planning to go on level one. It is significant to note that our measures have yielded positive results, as we have enough hospital bed capacity, ventilators and oxygen tanks for the foreseeable long period of the pandemic.” South Africa has a case facility rate of 2.1% - lower than the global rate, while Egypt has a 5.4% case fatality rate, higher than the global average of 3.5%. “Our mammoth task now is the mobilisation of society for the behavioural change needed as we ramp up non-pharmaceutical

National action crucial to restore employment TL Bureau, Cape Town

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africans must work together to ensure a rapid rebound in employment following the release of the latest employment figures. “Now is the time for all South Africans to pull together and grow South Africa,” he said. Statistics South Africa released the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS) on Tuesday, which revealed that 2.2 million people lost their jobs in the second quarter of 2020. “Our success in responding to this unprecedented crisis will be measured by the speed of our labour market recovery. “In addition to the relief measures we have already implemented, we must ensure that every job lost during the crisis is replaced and that more jobs are created so that we can meaningfully reduce unemployment,” said the President. Following broad agreement among social partners at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac) on the key actions required for economic recovery, Cabinet is in the process of finalising a programme for a return to growth and a rebound in employment. Structural reforms, investment in infrastructure and other measures to grow the economy, the President said, will play a crucial role in supporting the recovery of the labour market in the medium term.

SAPS Amendment Portugal donates laptops, Bill out for public COVID-19 essentials to education comment

TL Bureau, Cape Town

The Police Ministry has welcomed Cabinet’s approval of the South African Police Service (SAPS) Amendment Bill. In a statement on Tuesday, Police Minister Bheki Cele said the Amendment Bill, which has been published for public comment, was “long overdue”. “While all officers are guided by Section 205 of the Constitution of the country, there was a need to bring this bill in line with the Constitution to ensure optimal policing within the current environment,” said the Minister. A number of imperatives have led to a full review of the Act, which included the need to address shortcomings in the legal framework, which governs the police service. The amendments also seek to address matters of vetting and integrity testing of those employed within the SAPS under the SAPS Act, through lifestyle audits and conflict of interest.

Those joining the service will also need to be subjected to processes to ensure the integrity of the organisation is maintained. Police recruits will be expected to also submit a buccal sample for DNA testing. The Act, says the Ministry, will also empower the Minister of Police to make regulations for the roles, functions, duties and obligations, requirements for appointment and disciplinary matters of Deputy National and Divisional Commissioners. Enhancing community policing “The proposed changes also seek to enhance community policing and oversight of the Community Policing Forums over the police. The coordination between the police service and municipal police services needs to be improved in terms of the concept of a single police service. It will enhance the framework for the establishment, powers, functions and control of municipal police services,” reads the statement.

The Embassy of Portugal has donated 25 laptops and 2 000 masks to support the phased-in reopening of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The COVID-19 essentials donation and ICT devices come from the people of Portugal. We warmly accept this act of solidarity amid the devastation caused by the COVID-19 global pandemic. “This occasion today indeed reaffirms the importance of our bilateral relations, informed by the Memorandum of Consultations, signed in 2002,” said Basic Education Minister Angie Motshekga during the handover on Monday. Motshekga said the donation comes at a time when the sector is tasked with ensuring that every school child has sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks, to keep the virus at bay. “These are key in promoting the COVID-19 pandemic compliance

interventions as a new way to coexist with the virus. “Yet, we remain steadfast in our belief that there is a need to balance saving lives versus livelihoods. We remain committed to our moral and constitutional obligation to save lives, first and foremost,” said Motshekga. Portugal was hailed for its early and effective response to COVID-19, as it managed to avoid a devastating peak like the one seen in neighbouring Spain. It is now dealing firmly with the remnants of the virus through various measures. “I would like to reiterate my sincere gratitude to the people and the government of Portugal for their generous support to the phased-in reopening of schools in our country. “These are challenging times, of fighting an invisible enemy that seeks to decimate lives and livelihoods. Thankfully, our response, together with the international community, has been marked by solidarity and cooperation,” said the Minister.

IFC Helps Boost Workplace Gender Diversity in Iraq

TL Bureau, Baghdad

IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is partnering with two key business associations in Iraq Baghdad’s Chamber of Commerce (BCC) and Erbil’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECCI) to help the country’s private sector create family-friendly workplaces that can attract, retain, and promote more women employees. Women in Iraq are disproportionately affected by job losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, worsening their economic prospects. The female labor force participation rate in Iraq in 2019 stood at just 12 percent, one of the lowest rates in the world. Under the initiative, the IFCled Peer Learning Platform initiative and its activities, will train key staff at BCC and ECCI member companies in a series of webinars to help support their employees with family-friendly policies and respond to the COVID-19 crisis. The sessions will include knowledge-sharing among participants, lessons from international experts, and successful case studies to encourage the hiring and retention of women

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

The government’s JobMaker Digital Business Plan is a critical plank in accelerating the shift to a digital economy and creating the dynamic new jobs we’ll need in the recovery, Business Council chief executive Jennifer Westacott said. “These changes help set us up for the future. They put Australia on track to be a leading digital economy by 2030 by enabling businesses to access modern digital infrastructure and locking in sensible regulatory reforms that make it easier to do business and create jobs. “Today’s announcement updates outdated regulations that hold back commonsense changes, like letting businesses hold annual general meetings online. “Crucially, the package will help drive the digitisation of businesses of all sizes, meaning they can take advantage of new technologies to work smarter. “This is critical because we know that digitally enabled small and medium sized businesses are eight times more likely to create new jobs. “The pandemic has taught us that many of the old ways of working are outdated, the government is rightly acting to position us for the future.

and boost their representation on corporate boards. Firas Rasul Jaafar, Chairman of the BCC, stressed the importance of enhancing opportunities for women and promoting gender diversity in the workplace in Iraq. “This is what helps create a productive and equal atmosphere and our partnership with IFC will contribute significantly to reducing the gender gap in the sector.” “We place gender equality and women’s empowerment in the workplace at the top of strategic areas of our work at the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry,” said Dr. Dara Khayyat, President of the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “Our partnership with IFC will help reduce the gender gap and scale up women’s roles and contribution to the growth of the Iraqi economy.” IFC will hold a virtual competition at the end of the initiative, to ensure companies trained have retained the information and showcase their commitments to implement gender parity at their organization levels. “IFC focuses on supporting Iraq’s private sector in recovering from the current economic crisis and rebuilding more agile and resilient

businesses and workforces,” said Bilal Sugheyer, IFC’s country head in Iraq. “Creating safe, family-friendly and flexible workplaces that allow companies to maximize the contributions and productivity of the country’s workforce - especially those of women - is a critical driver of building resilience in Iraq’s business sector.” The project is part of the Mashreq Gender Facility (MGF), a World BankIFC initiative in partnership with the governments of Canada and Norway, which aims to strengthen the enabling environment for relevant stakeholders to effectively identify and address constraints to women’s economic participation; and improve women’s access to economic opportunities. The implementing partner in Iraq is the Directorate for the Empowerment of Iraqi Women at the Council of Ministers. The Ministry of Planning and the Directorate for the Empowerment of Iraqi Women at the Council of Ministers represent Iraq on the MGF Steering Committee, and the High Council for Women’s Affairs (HCWA) of the Kurdistan Regional Government is also represented.

TL Bureau, Washington D.C.

potential of 7,700 Gigawatts (GW), equivalent to over 11 times current global installed wind capacity. Fifteen other countries have technical wind potentials over 1,000 GW including Mauritania, Mali, Egypt, Namibia, South Africa, Ethiopia and Kenya. “This analysis has clearly shown that Africa has world-class wind potential and that wind can play an important role in bringing clean, affordable electricity to millions on the continent,” said Linda Munyengeterwa, IFC’s Infrastructure Director for Middle East and Africa. “Going forward, IFC is committed to working with the public and private sector to help realize Africa’s remarkable, and largely untapped, wind potential.” The analysis also finds that over one-third of Africa’s wind potential is in areas with very strong winds, averaging greater than 8.5 meters per second. Seventeen of the countries analyzed have particularly strong wind potential, with average productivity (as measured by

BUSINESS

Recognise an inspiring educator this World Teachers’ Day

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

In the lead up to World Teachers’ Day this Monday 5 October, Commonwealth Bank and Australian Schools Plus are calling for students, parents, and school communities, to put forward a school educator who has been an inspiration through challenging times, as part of the 2021 Commonwealth Bank Teaching Award nominations. Over the past year, educators across Australia and the world have had to adapt to new ways of working while continuing to engage students with learning. To celebrate and thank teachers and school leaders for their tireless efforts, 2020 World Teachers’ Day

focuses on how educators have led in crisis and reimagined the future. Nathan Barker, Head of Community Investment at Commonwealth Bank, said: “While this year has brought a lot of uncertainty to the classroom, our Fellows have been able to swiftly reimagine their learning environment and adapt to online and remote learning. It’s remarkable to see the level of care and time they put in to educating our young people. Now more than ever, it’s important to thank and celebrate our great educators and the essential role they play in our lives.” Applications are open until 16 October, with winners to be announced in March 2021.

Wall Street Closing

TL Bureau, New York

U.S. stocks rose in volatile trading Wednesday. The Dow Jones industrial average rose 329.04, or 1.2

percent, to 27.781.70. The S&P 500 index rose 27.53, or 0.8 percent, to 3,363. The Nasdaq composite index rose 82.26, or 0.7 percent, to 11,167.51.

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

Developing Africa’s huge onshore wind energy potential can boost its transition to affordable and reliable clean energy. For the first time ever, wind and solar made up the majority of the world’s new power generation in 2019. A mix of wind and solar energy is not only good for the climate but will help diversify the continent’s energy mix and improve energy security. A new study for IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, shows that continental Africa possesses a stunning onshore wind potential of almost 180,000 Terawatt hours (TWh) per annum, enough to satisfy the entire continent’s electricity demands 250 times over. The analysis, carried out by Everoze, finds that 27 countries in Africa have enough wind potential on their own to satisfy the entire continental electricity demand—estimated at 700 TWh annually. Algeria has the highest resource with a total

their “capacity factors”) up to 46 percent, rivalling the most productive onshore wind sites in the world. “What is surprising is how distributed the wind resource is,” said Sean Whittaker, Principal Industry Specialist at IFC. “By using high-resolution mesoscale wind models and assuming the use of tall, large rotor, modern turbines we see great potential in countries not previously considered to be ‘windy’ places, including Ivory Coast, Nigeria, Botswana, Cameroon and Mozambique.” Wind is one of the fastestgrowing, cheapest sources of new power generation around the world with over 650 Gigawatts (GW) of installed capacity. However, installed wind capacity in Africa represents less than 1 percent of this capacity. The analysis reveals a total wind potential on the African continent of over 59,000 GW—equivalent to 90 times the current global installed wind capacity. Ben Backwell, CEO of the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC)

said “This important report demonstrates that the studies which have been published until now have significantly underestimated the opportunity that wind energy represents for Africa. There is a clear need now for governments to enact policies to take advantage of the vast resource that the report identifies and enable large scale investment in wind as a key building block for green economic recovery post COVID–19.” IFC worked in collaboration with Everoze, Vortex and GWEC to conduct the analysis. Everoze drew on high-resolution mesoscale data from the Global Wind Atlas (www.globalwindatlas.info) and applied basic constraints for technical restrictions (i.e. slopes, elevation, minimum wind speed, land use cover) and basic environmental restrictions (i.e. population density, protected areas). IFC and GWEC will host a joint Webinar on October 5 to disseminate and discuss the key findings of the analysis.

FEATURE

Never too late to fight back against pandemic

By Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, DG, WHO

One million people have now been lost to COVID-19 and many more are suffering because of the pandemic. This milestone is a difficult moment for the world but there are glimmers of hope that encourage us now and in the near future. Just nine months on from the virus first being identified, some of the best scientists in the world have collectively developed tests to diagnose cases, identified treatments like corticosteroids to reduce mortality in the most severe cases of COVID-19, and produced vaccine candidates that are now in final phase three trials. While we await further breakthroughs, we have seen that the virus can be effectively contained through the application of tried and tested public health measures. Many countries have driven an all-of-government, all-ofsociety response. With the right preparedness infrastructure in place, they were able to act early to contain outbreaks before transmission got out of hand. Thailand has a well-resourced

medical and public health system. Informed by the best available scientific advice, and a trained and committed community health workforce, Thai authorities acted decisively to suppress the virus, to build trust and to increase public confidence. Italy was one of the first countries to experience a large outbreak outside China, and in many ways was a pioneer for other countries. Learning from the Wuhan experience, Italy put strong measures in place and was able to reduce transmission and save many thousands of lives. National unity and solidarity, combined with the dedication and sacrifice of health workers, and the engagement of the Italian people helped bring the outbreak under control. Although the Americas has so far been the most-affected region, Uruguay has reported the lowest number of cases and deaths in Latin America, both in total and on a per capita basis. This is not an accident. Uruguay has one of the most robust and resilient health systems in Latin America, with sustainable investment based on political consensus on the importance of investing in public health. Pakistan deployed the

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

Second, reduce deaths by protecting vulnerable groups, including older people, those with underlying conditions and essential workers. Third, individuals must play their part by taking the measures we know work to protect themselves and others – stay at least one metre away from others, clean your hands regularly, practice respiratory etiquette, and wear a mask. Avoid the “three Cs”: closed spaces, crowded places and close-contact settings. And fourth, governments must take tailored actions to find, isolate, test and care for cases, and trace and quarantine contacts. Widespread stay-athome orders can be avoided if countries take temporary and geographically-targeted interventions. The 75th session of the UN General Assembly provides a moment for the world to come together to reflect on the past year and to forge a collective way forward. This is critical, because this public health emergency of international concern needs a global solution. The global economy is expected to contract by US$7 trillion in 2020 as a result of the pandemic. Only by tackling it together, will lives and livelihoods be restored.

Launched in April this year, the Access to COVID19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator is the only global initiative offering a solution to speed up the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. With the largest portfolio of COVID-19 tools in the world, investing in the ACTAccelerator increases the probability of being able to access the “winning candidate” and hedges the risk that countries that have already entered individual bilateral agreements end up with products that are not viable. It needs US$35 billion to meet the goal of developing new tools and producing and delivering 2 billion vaccine doses, 245 million treatments and 500 million diagnostic tests over the next year. That’s just 1% of what G20 governments have already committed to domestic economic stimulus packages. While today’s milestone gives us pause for reflection, this is a moment for us all to come together, in solidarity, to fight back against this virus. History will judge us on the decisions we do and don’t make in the months ahead. Let’s seize the opportunity and bridge national boundaries to save lives and livelihoods.

the beneficiaries, who will also pay their own utility bills. High standards for construction— including energy efficiency and environment protection—will be featured. Eighty per cent of the new residents will be IDPs and 20 per cent will be from the original population of Kramatorsk and Sievierodonetsk. The towns were selected for the

project due to high influx of IDPs –50,000 and 40,000 respectively – representing about one third of the preconflict population of each city. “When we fled our home, a priest gave us a village house for free. But another 16 people already lived there. It was basically a hut with just one table, one oven and one bathtub. I was already pregnant with my second child, and we lived in the hallway, where there no place to put the second crib. So, we moved to a flat, the cheapest one we could find, which the wind blew right through,” explained one displaced woman from Luhansk Region, eastern Ukraine, who shared her story in an anonymous IOM survey. “If we want to work towards a dignified and prosperous future for conflict-affected communities, we must complement our relief and recovery support with interventions that stem from

our deep understanding of the long-term impact of protracted displacement,” said Anh Nguyen, Chief of Mission at IOM Ukraine. “Not only will these new apartment buildings provide homes for the needy, the initiative also represents a significant boost to urban development of Kramatorsk and Sievierodonetsk and a positive socio-economic signal for the entire region,” he added. As many as 60 per cent of displaced people live in rented accommodation, and 17 per cent stay with relatives or host families. IOM has been working in Ukraine since 1996 and has scaled up its response since 2014. It has assisted over 514,000 vulnerable IDPs and people in need in 24 regions of Ukraine, providing them with humanitarian aid, livelihood grants, and opportunities for community development and social cohesion.

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

On Tuesday (15/09), the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is announcing details of a new project to provide modern and affordable housing to over 1,500 people in Ukraine’s conflict-affected east. These apartments and houses will be located in the towns of Kramatorsk (Donetsk Region) and Sievierodonetsk (Luhansk Region). They will shelter 500 families. Over the six years of protracted displacement in the country, caused by the conflict which erupted in 2014, IOM has recorded thousands of cases of displaced individuals and families for whom safe housing remains a pressing need. The latest IOM survey, conducted between April and June this year, revealed that only 11 per cent of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Ukraine own their homes. The EUR 22.1 million, five-

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

life and real estate

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

The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see the two agencies work together to advance shared goals relating to the sustainable and responsible growth of rural tourism. In leading the sector’s response to COVID-19 and now guiding the global restart of tourism, UNWTO has been working closely with fellow UN agencies from the start of the current crisis. This new MoU comes on the back of World Tourism Day 2020, which was celebrated worldwide around the special theme of Tourism and Rural Development. Under the agreement, UNWTO and FAO will build a framework for enhanced collaboration, including through the sharing of knowledge and resources. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said: “This Memorandum of Understanding between UNWTO and the FAO emphasises the cross-cutting nature of tourism and the importance of cooperation at every level to ensure the sector works for everyone. Both tourism and agriculture are lifelines for communities around the world.

The agreement is particularly timely as it comes as we recognize 2020 as the year of Tourism for Rural Development. This was also the theme of World Tourism Day, which we celebrated this week, highlighting the role tourism must play in providing opportunities for rural communities and driving social and economic recovery.” Resilience, innovation and opportunity A central aim of the collaboration will be to increase the resilience of rural communities against social and economic shocks through growing tourism and making it both more sustainable and inclusive. Across the FAO’s GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems) network of communities, tourism is a leading driver of equality, with the sector employing women and youth and giving them a stake in economic growth. Tourism is also a protector of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes many of the communities within the GIAHS network, for instance through keeping folklore and other traditions alive for future generations. This Memorandum of Understanding between UNWTO and the FAO emphasises the crosscutting nature of tourism and the importance of cooperation at every level to ensure the sector works

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

The International Organization for Migration is gravely concerned by reports published in the media yesterday of sexual exploitation and abuse of women by aid workers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the Ebola crisis. In light of these reports, IOM’s Director General is ordering an immediate investigation by the Organization including an assessment of the serious allegation against an IOM worker. Such abuses by UN personnel and other humanitarian workers are an outrageous breach of trust with those we are mandated to support, often in very trying humanitarian circumstances. IOM is determined to investigate and eradicate these shocking abuses wherever and

whenever they occur including in this particular instance. As an Organization we work constantly to improve our systems to tackle sexual exploitation and abuse, with strengthened reporting tools, staff trainings, and awareness raising across the Organization. Because victims of abuse are sometimes reluctant to come forward, we are committed to improving our reporting mechanisms to ensure confidence in the system and that victims are fully aware that they can report such allegations without fear of retribution. IOM is fully committed to supporting the immediate and longer-term needs of victims, including their access to legal, health and psychosocial support. The safety and protection of those whom we serve and our staff and partners is a critical priority for the organization.

for everyone. A central aim of the collaboration will be to increase the resilience of rural communities against social and economic shocks through growing tourism and making it both more sustainable and inclusive. Across the FAO’s GIAHS (Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems) network of communities, tourism is a leading driver of equality, with the sector employing women and youth and giving them a stake in economic growth. Tourism is also a protector of the rich cultural heritage that characterizes many of the communities within the GIAHS network, for instance through keeping folklore and other traditions alive for future generations. Moving forward, the new MoU states that UNWTO and FAO will work together to establish a plan for more specific areas of collaboration. Key priorities, as outlined in the agreement, include encouraging entrepreneurship within rural communities, particularly among youth and women, with the aim of providing them with access to both local and global markets for their products. Other priorities include fostering education and skills so as to provide communities with opportunities within the tourism sector.

TL Bureau, Adelaide South Australians have every reason to celebrate, with a long weekend ahead and regional events in full swing. A month-long festival kicks off today in the Limestone Coast, as Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations returns for 2020. The largest festival of its kind in the region, it boasts a program of over 60 events across five weeks, showcasing the wine region’s signature red wine, cabernet sauvignon. Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations is supported by the South Australian Tourism Commission, through its Regional Events & Festivals Program, which provides financial and marketing assistance to events that generate an increase in visitation to the state’s regions. South Australian Tourism Commission chief executive Rodney Harrex said it was fantastic to see one of the Limestone Coast’s major events back on the 2020

calendar. “Following a series of postponements earlier in the year, event organisers across the state have had the challenging task of reimagining their events and festivals to bring them back in a COVID-safe way,” said Mr Harrex. “The return of Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations is not only a coup for event organisers but an absolute win for the Limestone Coast, to help drive visitation to the region not just this long weekend and school holidays, but all of October.” “With plenty of accommodation providers in the Limestone Coast now signed up to be part of the SATC’s Great State voucher scheme, it’s brilliant timing for any South Australian heading to the festival to make their regional visit, a staycation.” Like many events scheduled for 2020, the Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations program has been adapted to ensure that capacity limits and other COVID restrictions can be safely managed.

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

TL Bureau, Athens, Brussels, Geneva

The Government of Greece, together with IOM, the International Organization for Migration, UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and UNICEF, the UN Children’s Fund today (30-09) welcomed the relocation of 139 asylum seekers to Germany, which has brought the total number of people relocated from Greece to other European Union (EU) Member States through a European Commission-funded programme this year to over 1,000. This was the 16th relocation flight organized under the EU programme implemented by IOM, UNHCR and UNICEF in cooperation with the Government of Greece through the Special Secretary for the Protection of Unaccompanied Children, and in close collaboration with the European Asylum Support Office (EASO). This year, a total of 1,066 asylum seekers have been relocated from Greece to Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg and Portugal.

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

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

Sustainability and legacy at the core of Milano Cortina 2026

TL Bureau, Lausanne

IOC President Thomas Bach welcomed the members of the Commission, which is chaired by Sari Essayah. They were joined by Milano Cortina 2026 and Italian National Olympic Committee President Giovanni Malagò and Milano Cortina 2026 CEO Vincenzo Novari. The Commission heard from representatives of the Organising Committee founders, including the President of the Italian Paralympic Committee, Luca Pancalli; Mayor of Milan Giuseppe Sala; Mayor of Cortina Gianpietro Ghedina; and President of the Lombardy Region Attilio Fontana; while an address was also delivered on behalf of the President of the Veneto Region, Luca Zaia. The representative of the Italian Government, Valerio Toniolo; the President of the Autonomous Province of Bolzano, Arno Kompatscher; and the President of the Autonomous Province of Trento, Maurizio Fugatti, also addressed the Commission. Speaking after the meeting, Essayah said: “Milano Cortina 2026 has made considerable progress despite the challenges posed by COVID-19. The integration of Olympic Agenda 2020 and the New Norm into the project, particularly around the use of existing venues, will

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

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

The first-ever World Table Tennis Championships is coming to Durban in 2023 and to the African continent for the first time since 1939. The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) on Monday said Durban won 90 votes (69.77%) to beat off competition from the other candidate city, Düsseldorf, Germany, which won 39 votes (30.23%). The KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Nomusa Dube-Ncube, has since expressed gratitude to the South Africa Table Tennis Board (SATTB) President Joe Carrim for working with the KwaZuluNatal government, eThekwini municipality and other key role players during the bidding process. “I know that in the beginning, it was extremely difficult but through your determination, you have managed to pull this off. “On behalf of the people of KwaZulu-Natal, I wish to personally salute all role players who have been involved in this important national project,” Dube-Ncube said. She thanked government and Premier Sihle Zikalala and the entire provincial

cabinet for the guidance throughout the bidding process. “With Durban being selected as the next host city, we flatter ourselves to believe that this is because South Africa and KwaZulu-Natal, in particular, have in the past proved to be worthy and competent hosts of a number of national, continental and international events of diverse interests.” Dube-Ncube said the province is overwhelmed by the enthusiastic response and interest that has been shown by the sport-loving community from across the globe. “The people of KwaZuluNatal cannot wait to welcome international and national visitors during the World Table Tennis Championship in 2023.” The MEC said they are excited that the championship will become one of the most important and “a mustsee event” in the global calendar. “Equally, we congratulate Germany, the country that has hosted the event on six previous occasions, including twice in the past eight years.” Carrim said winning the bid took a great deal of effort and commitment from all parties and the reward was a combined effort and that the hard work to ensure it is a success starts now.

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

approach. We are aware of the many important challenges yet to come, but we are ready to face them as a team, with the IOC and the Milano Cortina 2026 stakeholders, in order to deliver an unforgettable edition of the Games.” One of the major milestones praised by the Coordination Commission was the adoption, by the Italian Parliament, of an Olympic Law which dictates the organisation and governance of Milano Cortina 2026. The Commission also heard about the development of Milano Cortina 2026 staffing, with over 50 employees now working for the organisation, many of whom hold existing expertise in winter sports events. This topic gave the Organising Committee an opportunity to detail its planned staffing model, which will see the core Organising Committee team consist of around 600 people, with four decentralised departments established to focus on Governance, Games Delivery, Digital and Revenues. In addition, the development of Milano Cortina 2026’s Games vision was covered. This underpins its strategy right up until Games time, revolving around its desire to “Make all Italians fall in love with the Games and winter sports, and the world to fall in love with Italy”.

SPORTS

NFLNFLPA STATEMENT ON TITANS AND VIKINGS FACILITIES TL Bureau, California

n Tuesday morning, the O Titans COVID testing results returned three new player positives and five new personnel positives. The Titans will suspend in-person club activities starting today. Likewise, the Vikings, who played the Titans on Sunday, will also suspend in-person club activities. Both clubs are working closely with the NFL and the NFLPA, including our infectious disease experts, to evaluate close contacts, perform additional testing and monitor developments. All decisions will be made with health and safety as our primary consideration. We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.

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

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

TL Bureau, New York

The National Football League(NFL), Roc Nation and Pepsi announced today that acclaimed Emmy® Award nominated producer Jesse Collins has been named an Executive Producer of the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show, taking place in Tampa, Florida on Super Bowl Sunday, February 7, 2021. Collins joins Executive Producers Roc Nation following one of the most groundbreaking Pepsi Super Bowl Halftime performances in years, which starred the incomparable stars Jennifer Lopez and Shakira. He joins long time award-winning Pepsi halftime show director, Hamish Hamilton. “Jesse Collins is innovative, creative and one of the only executive producers that speak fluent ‘artist vision.’ He’s a true artist,” commented Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter. “Jesse’s insight

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

Stars and Love & Happiness: An Obama Farewell among others. “It is an honor to be a part of such an iconic show at such an important time in our history,” said Jesse Collins, Founder & CEO, Jesse Collins Entertainment. “I am grateful to JAY-Z, Desiree Perez, the entire Roc Nation family and the NFL for granting me this opportunity.” “We are excited to have Jesse Collins join with Roc Nation to executive produce the Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show,” said Brian Rolapp, Chief Media and Business Officer, NFL. “We look forward to our fans experiencing a memorable performance as part of the culmination of our 101st season.” JAY-Z’s appointment makes Collins the show’s first ever Black executive producer. Jesse Collins is repped by CAA and Morris Yorn Barnes Levine Krintzman Rubenstein Kohner & Gellman.

tech/auto

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

TL Bureau Tokyo

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

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

young designers who focus on tomorrow. Now more than ever, there are so many challenges for design to address including social inequity, economic instability, climate crisis and a health pandemic so I am sure to be inspired. This will be a case where the pleasure will be all mine.” Finalists receive a priceless experience as the mentors provide direct, interactive guidance in developing prototypes that bring the mentees’ ideas to life for the final judging. This year’s newest mentor is the artist and designer Sputniko!, whose innovative video and multimedia installations address technology’s impact on society. She joins the team of Joe Doucet, Mariam Kamara and Sabine Marcelis who will mentor the six finalists chosen from worldwide entries. The prototypes of the six finalists’ ideas will be displayed at the finale of LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021, scheduled to be held in April 2021. A single Grand Prix winner will be selected after finalists present their prototypes and ideas to the judging panel at the event under the eyes of global media and guests. Entries for the LEXUS DESIGN AWARD 2021 will be accepted until October 11.

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

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

TL Bureau, Munich.

At the end of September 2000, the modern MINI enjoyed its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show. The successful relaunch of the traditional British heritage brand introduced a completely new category of vehicle and laid the foundation stone for continuous development and diversity in the model range.

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

TL Bureau, Sant’Agata Bolognese,

Super sports car brand Automobili Lamborghini is to announce in late October a groundbreaking collaboration with Yohji Yamamoto, the eponymous brand of the worldrenowned fashion designer. The collaboration come together by blending Lamborghini’s perspective of adhering to the brand’s tradition and DNA while looking ahead to the future and constantly innovating to adapt to the times, and Yohji Yamamoto’s unwavering stance since debuting with his Paris collection in 1981 that clothing manufactured to embody philosophies and aesthetics which challenge the status quo. The passion

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

An original celebrates a landmark anniversary. 20 years ago, the MINI was presented for the first time ever in a public arena at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris. A unique success story in the automobile sector commenced with the relaunch of the traditional British heritage brand under the umbrella of the BMW Group and the presentation of the models MINI One and MINI Cooper. As the successor to the classic Mini, which ceased to be produced just a few days later after 41 years, the second generation provided all the enablers for another revolution in the small car segment. The MINI was the first premium vehicle in this class. Its modern concept has promoted continuous advanced development to the present day, encompassing driving fun, efficiency, comfort, safety, connectivity and not least model diversity.

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

And like every MINI, it was given a name. This model was dubbed “Sunny”, inspired by the paint finish for the body in Liquid Yellow, which transformed it into a rarity. In the first year of sales for the modern MINI in Germany, only one in every fifteen vehicles was supplied in this colour. The combination with a roof and door mirror caps in Black was even rarer. The starting signal for the development of the second generation of the MINI was already given in July 1994.

world

166 arrested in international crackdown against crime in Southeast Europe

TL Bureau, The Hague

A total of 34 countries teamed up last week to combat organised and serious international crime originating from Southeast Europe as part of joint action days (JAD). The four-day operation supported by Europol was aimed at tackling illegal immigration and the trafficking of firearms and drugs, which are key priorities of the European Multidisciplinary Platform Against Criminal Threats (EMPACT). The operation brought together: • EU Member States: Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden. • Non-EU Member States: Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ukraine, United States. • EU Agencies: Europol, Eurojust, Frontex • International and institutional partners: INTERPOL, UNODC,

PCC-SEE, CCWP, PA/2019 countering serious and organised crime in the Western Balkans, SEESAC. 8838 law enforcement officers were involved in the operation and included police officers, land, sea and air border guards and customs agents. Big hit against illicit trafficking During the span of the action week, more than 39 000 individuals and 44 000 vehicles were checked at cross border locations and in suspected hotspots for criminal trafficking. These controls and investigations have led to the following arrests in several European countries: Firearms trafficking or illegal possession of firearms: 17 Migrant smuggling or illegal immigration: 73 Drug trafficking: 37 Firearms and drug trafficking: 7

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

TL Bureau, Tallinn

Stenbock House, 30 September 2020 – According to Prime Minister Jüri Ratas, who gave an opening statement at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence, Estonia will not make, under any conditions, compromises on the expense of strengthening national defence. For that purpose, the proportion of defence expenses is increased in the next state budget, comprising 2.29% of the GDP. “Today, the government will submit the budget with defence expenses increased to 645 million euros to the Riigikogu. We are maintaining the course that we have held since 2012, investing at least 2% in defence expenses. As a border state of NATO and the European Union, Estonia cannot make compromises in security,” Prime Minister Ratas stressed at the Annual Baltic Conference on Defence (ABCD). As for the issue of strengthening the society and defence in the light of the crisis, Ratas considers it important to look at national defence in its comprehensive entirety, paying attention to internal security and a culture of preparedness in the whole society. “Combating the coronavirus pandemic required an inclusive

approach and provided a challenge for the entire society. Unfortunately, there will always be crises that affect the society. Therefore, it is important to expand our preparedness for crises and make our authorities and enterprises more crisis-proof: in other words, to enhance our overall culture of preparedness,” Ratas said. According to Ratas, this budget includes important investments into internal security and compilation of emergency stocks. With the state budget for 2021, the state continues to create an emergency reserve for the Police and Border Guard Board and strengthen our maritime and aerial capabilities. Next year, the state will contribute 45 million euros into strengthening the national security of supply, and establish a centre for supplies to centralise all resources for population protection. The prime minister believes that the coronavirus crisis proved how important international cooperation can be. “The best thing to do is to act in unison and in a coordinated manner. The cooperation among institutions of the European Union and the Member States could have been better in the beginning of the crisis. For example, closing the borders raised the issue of military mobility.

Document fraud: 12 International arrest warrant: 1 Other crimes not related to the JAD: 19 In addition, investigators seized 51 weapons of different types and 47 kilograms of a variety of drugs. Operational set up The EMPACT Firearms – led by Spanish Civil Guard (Guardia Civil) coordinated the operation with the support of Europol. The framework for the JAD consisted of databases crosschecking to help advance investigations, operational analysis, the exchange of information and real time communication and checks. During the course of the operation, Europol set up a virtual coordination centre to enable daily briefings and support the exchange of intelligence among the participants. Throughout the action days, law enforcement intensified

surveillance and controls at selected border-crossing points. The high-risk areas were identified following an upstream work of information gathering and analysis between national law enforcement authorities, Europol and the institutional partners. Several countries also carried out inland criminal investigations and activities in relation to the trafficking of weapons and explosives. Commenting on this operation, the Lieutenant of Guardia Civil, Pedro García Vazquez said: As action leader for this international JAD implemented in the framework of the EU Policy Cycle/EMPACT operation, Spain and of course my agency Guardia Civil is tremendously pleased with the results achieved. Law enforcement agencies are prepared to fight organised crime internationally by conducting high impact operations, despite the global COVID-19 pandemic, and citizens can be confident that we continue to pursue and innovate in criminal investigations. This operation shows the results we achieve when national law enforcement authorities across Europe, EU agencies such as Europol and Frontex, and international agencies such as

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

the German formula for success Federal and state governments are calling on everybody in Germany to continue to rigorously respect distancing and hygiene measures, and to help contact tracing by providing the correct contact data. The general “AHA” formula, the German acronym for distancing, hygiene measures, and face coverings, is to be joined by two more recommendations as temperatures drop and numbers of new cases rise: “C” which stands for “Use the Corona-Warn-App” and “L” which stands for “air rooms”. People are often dismissive about airing rooms, but it might be one of the cheapest and most effective ways of containing the spread of the pandemic, explained the Chancellor. In addition to mandatory face masks, the recording of contact data in places like restaurants is to be monitored in future. If anyone leaves false information, they will in future face a minimum fine of 50 euros. Restaurants are called on to run plausibility checks, to ensure that their contact lists are complete and correct. Continuing the testing strategy

The German government will be continuing its testing strategy. In particular, it is to be ascertained to what extent appropriate rapid tests can be used. The new quarantine regulations for travellers arriving in Germany are to be put into practice as swiftly as possible. To prevent the health system becoming overstretched over the winter months, out-patient clinics for patients with fever, dedicated consulting hours and dedicated medical practices are to be used. Parallel to this, high-risk groups in particular should be vaccinated against influenza to prevent any potentially highly dangerous double infection. Hot spot strategy to be further developed Federal and state governments agree that immediate clamp-downs at local level are needed to address any regional rise in numbers of new cases. The federal states are to ensure that in districts or towns where a cumulative seven-day total of over 50 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants is reached, immediate restrictions are imposed with the involvement of the relevant state authorities.

Working together to prevent uncontrolled outbreaks

TL Bureau, Berlin

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