Dempsey: Americans Will Shape Image of Modern Vet United States Department of Defense Dempsey: Americans Will Shape Image of Modern Vet By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service MANHATTAN, Kan., Oct. 1, 2012 – Now is when the image of today’s generation of veterans is being formed, and Americans need to have a dialogue on what [...]

Biden, Carter Applaud ‘Team MRAP’ as Production Ends United States Department of Defense Biden, Carter Applaud ‘Team MRAP’ as Production Ends By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Vice President Joe Biden today joined Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter at a Pentagon ceremony marking the end of production of the [...]

Threat posed by chemical weapons remains serious global concern, says Ban United Nations 1 October 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today highlighted the continuing global threat posed by chemical weapons, voicing particular concern with statements by the Syrian Government regarding the existence and possible use of these tools of mass destruction. “I once [...]

Northcom Marks 10 Years Protecting U.S. Homeland United States Department of Defense Northcom Marks 10 Years Protecting U.S. Homeland By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Ten years ago today, still stinging from the devastating 9/11 terror attacks, the United States stood up U.S. Northern Command with one sole mission: to [...]

Family Matters Blog: Family Panel Addresses Exceptional Issues United States Department of Defense Family Matters Blog: Family Panel Addresses Exceptional Issues By Air Force Maj. Nicholas SabulaAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – Recently I had the opportunity to serve on a Defense Department advisory panel dealing with special needs issues across the [...]

Brazil to host the 10th edition of the Match Against Poverty, featuring Ronaldo, Zidane and other football stars United Nations 01 October 2012 UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors Ronaldo and Zinédine Zidane (Photo: Witters) Annual Match to take place in Porto Alegre on 19 December 2012   Geneva/New York/Brasilia — Football legends and UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors Ronaldo and [...]

Addressing UN General Debate, Indian minister calls for international convention on terrorism United Nations 1 October 2012 Describing terrorism as one of the most “potent threats” to international peace, India’s Minister of External Affairs, S. M. Krishna, used his address before the United Nations General Assembly today to call for universal rejection of acts [...]

At UN assembly, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister warns against selective intervention United Nations 1 October 2012 Addressing the General Assembly at UN Headquarters in New York, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minster, G. L. Peiris, today deplored the selective intervention in the internal affairs of some countries, stressing from the Assembly’s podium that conflict resolution must [...]

Missions, Capabilities Will Top NATO Conference Agenda United States Department of Defense Missions, Capabilities Will Top NATO Conference Agenda By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – NATO defense ministers and partners will meet next week to discuss the alliance’s defense capabilities and missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan, NATO Secretary General Anders [...]

Flag Officer Assignment United States Department of Defense IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 786-12October 01, 2012 Flag Officer Assignment             The Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus and Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Jonathan W. Greenert announced today the following assignment:              Rear [...]

Kazakhstan risks losing gains in slavery fight, warns UN human rights expert United Nations 1 October 2012 A new law which complicates the process for labourers to acquire work permits in Kazakhstan risks reversing recent gains made by the Central Asian country in its fight against slavery, a United Nations human rights expert warned [...]

Allen Discusses Insider Attacks in ’60 Minutes’ Interview United States Department of Defense Allen Discusses Insider Attacks in ‘60 Minutes’ Interview By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – In an interview on the CBS program “60 Minutes” last night, the commander of U.S. and coalition [...]

Face of Defense: Marine, Seabee Reunite After Decade United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Marine, Seabee Reunite After Decade By Marine Corps Cpl. Timothy LenzoRegional Command Southwest FORWARD OPERATING BASE JACKSON, Afghanistan, Oct. 1, 2012 – The sound of power tools and commands come from the battalion aid station here, startling a few [...]

We Can’t Wait: Obama Administration Announces Transit Projects in Minnesota and Ohio to Be Expedited United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as part of his We Can’t Wait initiative, President Obama announced that two nationally and regionally significant [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Breast cancer touches [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION For far too [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Substance Abuse Prevention Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE PREVENTION MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Every day, far [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Disability Employment Awareness Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION In the 22 [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Energy Action Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL ENERGY ACTION MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION A secure energy future is [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Arts and Humanities Month, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 NATIONAL ARTS AND HUMANITIES MONTH, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION After the bombing [...]

Dublin to host 8th forum of cities against poverty United Nations 01 October 2012 Cities can offer their citizens many social and economic benefits, but they can also become deep poverty traps, when not managed properly. (Photo: Markus Schieder, Getty Images) Making Cities Smart, Safe and Sustainable to be key focus of the forum Geneva [...]

Attack May Have Included Insurgent Fire, Officials Say United States Department of Defense Attack May Have Included Insurgent Fire, Officials Say Compiled from International Security Assistance Force and ISAF Joint Command News Releases WASHINGTON, Oct. 1, 2012 – A Sept. 29 exchange of gunfire in Afghanistan’s Wardak province that left an International Security Assistance Force [...]

Presidential Proclamation — Child Health Day, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release October 01, 2012 CHILD HEALTH DAY, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION As a Nation, we share an obligation [...]

UNHCR’s Guterres says global humanitarian crises at levels unmatched in recent history United Nations News Stories, 1 October 2012 © UNHCR/J-M.Ferré UN High Commissioner for Refugees António Guterres addresses members of UNHCR’s governing Executive Committee today at the annual ExCom meeting in Geneva. GENEVA, October, October 1 (UNHCR) – The head of the UN refugee [...]

Agricultural G-20 proposals could revive negotiators’ engagement, chair says World Trade Organisation NOTE: THIS NEWS STORY is designed to help the public understand developments in the WTO. While every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate, it does not prejudice member governments’ positions. “INFORMAL MEETING” means there are no [...]

Estonia must reform to ward against boom/bust cycles, OECD says OECD   01/10/2012 – Estonia recovered forcefully from the global economic crisis but growth has since slowed, highlighting the need for further reforms that reduce exposure to external shocks and ensure against future boom/bust cycles, according to the OECD’s latest Economic Survey of Estonia.   [...]

Saudi Arabian woman researcher Hayat Sindi to be appointed UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador United Nations Born in 1967 in Mecca (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), Dr Hayat Sindi has made major contributions to point-of-care diagnostics, medical testing at or near the site of patient care, specifically designed for the vast number of people who do not have [...]

Encouragement for Australia’s plan to protect medical workers in Syria Australian Government News – Australian Entities Media release 30 September 2012 Foreign Minister Bob Carr has secured a positive response to Australia’s plan to protect access to hospitals and medical care in Syria, with leaders from the United Nations and Arab League offering encouragement for [...]

Prime Minister Tu’ivakano: Statement at UNGA 67th Session Pacific Islands Governments 28 September 2012 Statement delivered by the Prime Minister of Tonga and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Lord Tu’ivakanoa in New York on the occasion of The General Debate of the General Assembly Sixty Seventh Session. Thank you Mr. President Mr. Secretary General Excellencies, Distinguished [...]

UNESCO Director-General deplores destruction of ancient Aleppo markets, a World Heritage site United Nations Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

Foreign Ministers agree on Draft Commonwealth Charter and EPG Recommendations Commonwealth Secretariat Home: Foreign Ministers agree on Draft Commonwealth Charter and EPG Recommendations 29 September 2012 Commonwealth Foreign Ministers met in New York today on the margins of the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Ministers agreed on a draft charter of [...]

At UN, Sudan’s Foreign Minister highlights recent cooperation pact with South Sudan United Nations 29 September 2012 Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, Ali Ahmed Karti, today highlighted, among other issues, his country’s role in reaching a key framework agreement for cooperation – particularly in security, the common border and economic [...]

Tuvalu’s Foreign Minister calls on UN to grant special status to developing small-island states United Nations 29 September 2012 In a call for greater international focus on the problems of developing small-island states, Tuvalu’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Apisai Ielemia, today told the United Nations General Assembly that the time had come for special [...]

At General Assembly, Papua New Guinea’s Foreign Minister thanks UN for its support United Nations 29 September 2012 Highlighting his country’s most recent achievements at the General Assembly, Papua New Guinea’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Rimbink Pato, today expressed his country’s thanks for the roles played by the United Nations and others [...]

At General Assembly, Southeast Asian ministers call for UN reform buttressed by rule-of-law United Nations 29 September 2012 Speakers representing a trio of Southeast Asian countries called for reform of United Nations bodies today, with Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Singapore’s Foreign Affairs Minister framing their arguments for change mainly around development and economic [...]

At debate, Tajik Foreign Minister voices need for UN reform, engagement in Afghanistan United Nations 29 September 2012 The need for reform of the United Nations, illicit drug trafficking and the situation in Afghanistan were among the topics covered in the speech by Tajikistan’s Foreign Minister, Hamrokhon Zarifi, to the UN General Assembly today. [...]

Nuclear weapons are no ‘guarantee of security,’ Kazakh Foreign Ministers tells UN debate United Nations 29 September 2012 The inability of nuclear weapons to guarantee a country’s security or independence was highlighted in the speech of Kazakhstan’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kairat Umarov, to the United Nations General Assembly today. “The [...]

Weekly Address: It’s Time for Congress to Help Responsible Homeowners United States White House blog In this week’s address, President Obama explains his administration’s steps to help the housing market, including giving responsible homeowners a chance to save thousands of dollars every year by refinancing their mortgages, but says we need Congress’s help to do [...]

FEMA Invests $100 Million in Post-Tsunami Disaster Relief, Emergency Preparedness Improvements for American Samoa NOAA will certify Territory as TsunamiReady this week Pacific Islands Governments FEMA Invests $100 Million in Post-Tsunami Disaster Relief, Emergency Preparedness Improvements for American Samoa NOAA will certify Territory as TsunamiReady this week Details Friday, 28 September [...]

Myanmar can count on UN support to face challenges ahead, says envoy United Nations 28 September 2012 The United Nations will continue to assist the people of Myanmar to address the various challenges facing the country, a senior official said today. Vijay Nambiar, the Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for Myanmar, was among those [...]

In UN speech, Uzbek Foreign Minister stresses water conservation as key to regional security United Nations 28 September 2012 In a speech to the United Nations General Assembly, the Foreign Minister of Uzbekistan, Abdulaziz Kamilov, today underlined the commitment of his country – a landlocked nation in Central Asia – to a United Nations [...]

Security Council calls on Yemenis to ensure transition milestones are met on time United Nations 28 September 2012 Commending the progress made by Yemen in its democratic transition, the Security Council today called on all parties to continue to honour the timetable for achieving key milestones along that path, including the upcoming national dialogue. [...]

American Samoa is now officially declared, “A Tsunami Ready Territory. . .” Pacific Islands Governments American Samoa is now officially declared, “A Tsunami Ready Territory. . .” Details Friday, 28 September 2012 (UTULEI: Friday, September 28, 2012) – Rebounding from the destruction of a tsunami that [...]

Naval Historian Describes U.S. 7th Fleet’s Impact in Asia United States Department of Defense Naval Historian Describes U.S. 7th Fleet’s Impact in Asia By John ValceanuAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – The U.S. 7th Fleet has played a key role in American foreign policy and has had a major positive impact in [...]

Roth Contributions to Open to All Active-duty Troops United States Department of Defense Roth Contributions to Open to All Active-duty Troops By Terri Moon CronkAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Beginning Oct. 1, 2012, active-duty members of the Army, Navy and Air Force will be able to contribute to the Roth Thrift [...]

President Proclaims Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day United States Department of Defense President Proclaims Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – President Barack Obama asked the nation to “rededicate ourselves to upholding the sacred trust we share with our Gold Star families and the heroes we [...]

Security Council welcomes Sudan-South Sudan pacts as ‘breakthrough’ for peace United Nations 28 September 2012 The Security Council today lauded the agreements reached by the leaders of Sudan and South Sudan in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, on Thursday as a “major breakthrough” for peace. “The members of the Council warmly congratulate the leaders [...]

Paloméros Takes Reins of NATO Command in Norfolk United States Department of Defense Paloméros Takes Reins of NATO Command in Norfolk By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service NORFOLK, Va., Sept. 28, 2012 – Supreme Allied Command Transformation Commander Gen. Stéphane Abrial of the French Air Force passed command today to fellow French airman Gen. Jean-Paul [...]

UN envoy alarmed by recent wave of killings of journalists in Somali capital United Nations 28 September 2012 The top United Nations political official for Somalia today said he was shocked and alarmed by the killing of seven journalists in the capital, Mogadishu, over the past month. “I am appalled by the [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National Public Lands Day, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION When Thomas Jefferson described the [...]

Presidential Proclamation — Gold Star Mother’s and Family’s Day, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY’S DAY, 2012 – – – – – – – BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION From [...]

Panetta, McKay Share Concerns on Iran United States Department of Defense Panetta, McKay Share Concerns on Iran By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – U.S. policy toward Iran’s nuclear capability “is not about containment, it’s about prevention,” Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said here today, in reference to what Western nations [...]

Deputy CIO: Computer Users Must Practice Cyber Security United States Department of Defense Deputy CIO: Computer Users Must Practice Cyber Security By Claudette RouloAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – National Cyber Security Awareness Month in October lasts just 31 days, but practicing good cyber security is important 365 days a year, the [...]

More Than 2.6 Million Records Released United States White House blog In September 2009, the President announced that—for the first time in history—White House visitor records would be made available to the public on an ongoing basis. Today, the White House releases visitor records that were generated in June 2012. Today’s release brings the total [...]

Statement by the Press Secretary on S. 3625 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 On Friday, September 28, 2012, the President signed into law: S. 3625, which delays requirement, with certain exceptions, that financial disclosure forms of employees of the Executive and [...]

Presidential Memorandum — Annual Refugee Admissions Numbers United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE SUBJECT: Fiscal Year 2013 Refugee Admissions Numbers and Authorizations of In-Country Refugee Status Pursuant to Sections 207 and 101(a)(42), Respectively, of the Immigration [...]

Presidential Memorandum — Presidential Determination with respect to the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE SUBJECT: Determination with Respect to the Child Soldiers Prevention Act of 2008 Pursuant to section [...]

Order Signed by the President regarding the Acquisition of Four U.S. Wind Farm Project Companies by Ralls Corporation United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 ORDER – – – – – – – REGARDING THE ACQUISITION OF FOUR U.S. WIND FARM PROJECT COMPANIES [...]

Airport Road Reconstruction and Intersection Improvement Project is Approved and Ready to Start Pacific Islands Governments Airport Road Reconstruction and Intersection Improvement Project is Approved and Ready to Start Details Thursday, 27 September 2012 (TAFUNA: Thursday, September 27, 2012) – The drive from the Tafuna intersection towards the airport [...]

DOD Receives Military Family Support Award United States Department of Defense DOD Receives Military Family Support Award By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – The Defense Department has been honored by a nonprofit organization for its collaboration with Congress in creating programs to support military families. The National Military [...]

Military Explores New Processes, Packaging for Combat Rations United States Department of Defense Military Explores New Processes, Packaging for Combat Rations By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service NATICK, Mass., Sept. 28, 2012 – When a warfighter bites into a combat ration, Lauren Oleksyk wants it to taste as good as if it had been cooked [...]

Secretary Panetta and Canadian Minister MacKay hold a Joint News Conference United States Department of Defense             It’s — it’s always an honor to be able to welcome Minister Peter MacKay to the Pentagon.  This is the second time I’ve had the privilege of hosting Peter here in Washington and it’s the seventh time [...]

Letter from the President regarding Designation of Funds for Overseas Contingency Operations/Global War on Terrorism United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 Dear Mr. Speaker: (Dear Mr. President:) In accordance with section 115(c) of the Continuing Appropriations Resolution, 2013, I hereby designate for [...]

Green alert for tropical cyclone NORMAN-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0. External Global Bodies Tropical Cyclone NORMAN-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability. Tropical Cyclone Tropical Storm (maximum wind speed of 83 km/h) [...]

Dempsey Releases Concept to Build Joint Force 2020 United States Department of Defense Dempsey Releases Concept to Build Joint Force 2020 By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – At the heart of the Capstone Concept for Joint Operations released today by the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff is an [...]

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.J. Res. 117, S. 3245 and S. 3552 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 On Friday, September 28, 2012, the President signed into law: H.J. Res. 117, which provides fiscal year 2013 appropriations for continuing projects [...]

United Nations and partners commit to building disaster resilience United Nations 28 September 2012 UK Secretary of State for International Development, Justine Greening, convened a meeting of donors and other partners this week alongside the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator, Helen Clark, to commit to providing greater support for countries to prepare for and [...]

At UN, Bhutan’s premier highlights world’s challenges and aims for Security Council seat United Nations 28 September 2012 In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Jigmi Y. Thinley, today highlighted a range of challenges and areas of progress before the international community, while also affirming his country’s [...]

Laos’ WTO membership terms agreed — next stop: General Council World Trade Organisation NOTE: THIS NEWS STORY is designed to help the public understand developments in the WTO. While every effort has been made to ensure the contents are accurate, it does not prejudice member governments’ positions. MORE:    [...]

Panels set up on Australia’s tobacco measures and on US duties on China’s exports World Trade Organisation MORE: > Disputes in the WTO > Find disputes cases > Find disputes documents > Disputes chronologically > Disputes by subject > Disputes by country    NOTE: This summary has been prepared by the WTO Secretariat’s Information and External [...]

Liechtenstein offers CHF 40,000 to WTO training for developing countries World Trade Organisation MORE: > Technical assistance news > 2012 press releases    This donation will finance technical assistance programmes and training activities for developing and least developed countries. The aim is to better adapt their practices [...]

EU will ask for “countermeasures” in aircraft dispute with the US World Trade Organisation MORE:    > Further information will be available within the next few days in document WT/DS353/17 RSS news feeds > Problems [...]

EU requests consultations with the US on compliance in the Boeing dispute World Trade Organisation MORE:    The EU says it has reviewed the announced US measures and considers that the US maintains a series of subsidies. In its requests for consultations, the European Union says that the [...]

Day 3: Experts say trade is part of the answer in the fight against record unemployment World Trade Organisation NOTE: THE WTO’S NEWS COVERAGE OF THE PUBLIC FORUM ON ITS WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES SUCH AS FACEBOOK AND TWITTER IS NEWS ITEM IS DESIGNED TO HELP THE PUBLIC FOLLOW PROCEEDINGS AND IS [...]

Lamy: Helping developing countries remains priority but “nature of trade is changing” World Trade Organisation Secretary-General Panitchpakdi Supachai, Honourable Ministers, Ambassador Seilenthal, Ambassadors, Ladies and Gentlemen, I am very pleased to address this fifty-ninth session of the Trade and Development Board on the subject of the ’Evolution of the international trading system and [...]

Day 2: Amid global economic problems, WTO reforms urged World Trade Organisation Speakers are members of the Director-General’s Panel on Defining the Future of World Trade. Director-General Lamy opened the discussion by asking two questions: Is multilateralism in crisis? And if it is, how is that affecting your work and objectives? Ms Sharan [...]

Lamy: “Multilateralism is struggling” World Trade Organisation MORE: > Pascal Lamy’s speeches > WTO Public Forum 2012 — “Is Multilateralism in Crisis?” Ladies and gentlemen, Welcome to the WTO Public Forum of 2012. This year, like last year, has been marked by extraordinary turbulence.  Sluggish economic growth [...]

Day 1: Opening-day speakers say yes, multilateralism is in crisis World Trade Organisation In welcoming participants to the Public Forum, Director-General Pascal Lamy said that “the rules of the game — whether in the trade sphere, in the economic sphere, in the environmental or food security spheres — a nd indeed across all areas of [...]

OECD’s Gurría welcomes budget proposal and economic reforms announced by the Spanish Government OECD   28/09/2012 – OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría welcomes the Spanish government’s budget and the economic policy measures announced yesterday. “These measures reveal Spain’s political decision to address short-term and structural challenges and represent a crucial step towards providing economic certainty. They [...]

Face of Defense: Marine Combat Vet Wants to Help Others United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Marine Combat Vet Wants to Help Others By Marine Corps Sgt. Richard Blumenstein24th Marine Expeditionary Unit USS GUNSTON HALL, Gulf of Aden, Sept. 28, 2012 – Marine Corps Cpl. Adrian Cuevas has experienced the horrors of war [...]

Panetta: Leaders Must Stand Against Sexual Assault United States Department of Defense Panetta: Leaders Must Stand Against Sexual Assault By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Military leaders at all levels must take responsibility to stop sexual assault, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said. In an interview with NBC’s [...]

UN officials call for stronger global measures to counter nuclear terrorism United Nations 28 September 2012 The consolidation of strong international mechanisms is vital to combat nuclear terrorism, senior United Nations officials stressed today, warning that countries must urgently act to tackle one of today’s most serious global threats. “The prospect of [...]

UNDP and League of Arab States join hands for development in the Arab region United Nations 28 September 2012 New York – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the League of Arab States signed today a cooperation agreement, creating a framework for joint work in support of human development across the Arab region.  The [...]

Combined Force Kills Multiple Insurgents United States Department of Defense Combined Force Kills Multiple Insurgents From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 28, 2012 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed multiple armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a senior Haqqani facilitator in the Gelan district of [...]

Statement by NSC Spokesman Tommy Vietor on Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John Brennan’s Meeting with Yemeni President Abdo Rabu Mansour Hadi United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 28, 2012 Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism John [...]

Princess Royal meets young Zambians during visit to Commonwealth youth centre Commonwealth Secretariat Princess Anne presented Gold and Silver Duke of Edinburgh International Awards and met with Commonwealth Youth Programme staff, young people, and student leaders   Anne, the Princess Royal, underscored the need to advance work in creating sustainable livelihoods for young people during [...]

Officials Discuss Cybernet Transformation Efforts United States Department of Defense Officials Discuss Cybernet Transformation Efforts By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2012 – Defense officials gathered at the National Press Club yesterday discussed DOD efforts to transform its cyber operations into cloud computing technology that’s envisioned to provide added agility, security and [...]

Marine Missing in Action from Korean War Identified United States Department of Defense             The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from the Korean War, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.  [...]

Airman Missing from WWII Identified United States Department of Defense             The Department of Defense POW/Missing Personnel Office (DPMO) announced today that the remains of a serviceman, missing in action from World War II, have been identified and will be returned to his family for burial with full military honors.              Army Air [...]

UNHCR’s annual governing body meeting starts next week United Nations Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012 This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. The 63rd annual [...]

UNHCR responds to public health threats in Dadaab refugee camps United Nations Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012 This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. Following [...]

Nansen Refugee Award Ceremony United Nations Briefing Notes, 28 September 2012 This is a summary of what was said by UNHCR spokesperson Andrej Mahecic – to whom quoted text may be attributed – at the press briefing, on 28 September 2012, at the Palais des Nations in Geneva. UNHCR and its partner the Norwegian Refugee [...]

Director-General condemns killing of two Syrian journalists: reporter Maya Nasser and citizen journalist Abdelkarim Al-Oqda United Nations <h2>“Once again, I call on all those involved in the conflict in Syria to respect the civilian status of journalists, including citizen journalists, to exercise and their right to freedom of expression. Journalists must also be able to [...]

Thousands flee homes in northern Myanmar as fighting intensifies United Nations News Stories, 28 September 2012 © UNHCR/A.Kirchhof A UNHCR-supported camp for internally displaced people near Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin state in northern Myanmar. MYITKYINA, Myanmar, September 28 (UNHCR) – Fighting in northern Myanmar has forced some 10,000 people to flee their homes in [...]

Buses Join Anti-Corruption Campaign Pacific Islands Governments Written by Administrator | 28 September 2012   Visual aids on buses have been the latest form of promoting the anti-corruption message by FICAC. FICAC’s Organisations Against Corruption Campaign entered a brand new phase with stickers on the back [...]

Assessors find Rizwan Guilty Pacific Islands Governments Written by Administrator | 28 September 2012   Mohammed Rizwan was found Guilty by Assessors in the Lautoka High Court this afternoon.   The Assessors were unanimous in their decision on all the five counts against Rizwan.   Rizwan [...]

Officer Charged for Bribery Pacific Islands Governments Written by Administrator | 28 September 2012   Bribery charges were filed this morning at the Suva Magistrates Court against Rudra Maharaj, a public relations officer at the Prime Minister’s Office.   The accused pleaded not guilty to the [...]

West Wing Week 09/28/12 or "A Common Heartbeat to Humanity" United States White House blog Welcome to the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that’s happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, the First Lady spoke at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Dinner, We the People turned one-year old, and the President addressed the [...]

Least developed countries need more international support, Bangladeshi premier tells UN United Nations 28 September 2012 The world’s poorest countries need more international support to help them alleviate the consequences of rising food and energy prices, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, told the United Nations General Assembly today. Linking the [...]

China’s Foreign Minister stresses principle of non-interference at UN debate United Nations 27 September 2012 Taking the podium at the United Nations General Assembly today, China’s Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi stressed the need to ensure that international relations are based strictly on the principle of non-interference in each other’s affairs. “Mutual respect [...]

ASG Promotes Open Government Pacific Islands Governments ASG Promotes Open Government Details Wednesday, 26 September 2012 (UTULEI: Wednesday, September 26, 2012) – “Open Government highlights what we do for the people and with the people. . .” said Governor Togiola, at the Open Government celebration that was hosted by [...]

East-West Center Welcomes New Diplomat-In-Residence, Nicholas Papp Pacific Regional Bodies HONOLULU (Sept. 27, 2012) – – Nicholas Papp, a 13-year veteran of the U.S. Foreign Service, has joined the East-West Center as Diplomat-in-Residence. He will be posted at the Center until June 2013 with a research focus on the current democratic reform movement in Burma. [...]

East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks at the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Well good afternoon everyone, and welcome to New York. Thank you for joining us here. It’s a pleasure to welcome all of you to New York, and I want to offer a special greeting to my co-chair. [...]

East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks at the ASEAN Ministerial Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Well good afternoon everyone, and welcome to New York. Thank you for joining us here. It’s a pleasure to welcome all of you to New York, and I want to offer a special greeting to my co-chair. [...]

What You Missed: White House Hangout on Combating Human Trafficking United States White House blog This week, President Obama spoke at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting about his administration’s efforts to combat human trafficking. “Our fight against human trafficking is one of the great human rights causes of our time and the United States [...]

New Chevening Scholarships website launched British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts) The new website brings together the worldwide achievements of the Chevening scheme, providing a central source of information for current, past and future award holders. Fiji has its own page at www.chevening.org/fiji where potential applicants can register their interest to receive alerts about application opening [...]

More than elections needed to consolidate democracy, Maldives President tells UN United Nations 27 September 2012 “Holding elections itself is not a sufficient condition for consolidating democracy”, President Mohammed Waheed of the Maldives told the UN General Assembly today, noting that that patience, hard choices and compromises were as important as “cultivating and nurturing [...]

Economic development strategies must put people first, Thai leader says at UN debate United Nations 27 September 2012 Economic development must go hand in hand with political advancement, Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra of Thailand told the United Nations General Assembly today, while adding that any strategy to promote growth must put people first. [...]

Ambassador to Croatia Australian Government News – Australian Entities Media release 28 September 2012 Foreign Minister Bob Carr today announced Ms Susan Cox OAM as Australia’s next Ambassador to Croatia. Ms Cox is expected to take up her appointment in December, replacing Ms Beverly Mercer. Ms Cox is a career officer with the Department of [...]

High Commissioner to Ghana Australian Government News – Australian Entities Media release 28 September 2012 Foreign Minister Bob Carr today announced Ms Joanna Adamson as Australia’s next High Commissioner to Ghana, with non-resident accreditation to Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo. Ms Adamson will take up her appointment in [...]

Protecting hospitals and health workers in Syria Australian Government News – Australian Entities Media release 27 September 2012 This week I’ve been meeting with Foreign Ministers from the European Union and the Middle East on the issue of Syria. Based on these discussions, Australia will now bring forward a plan to protect and respect access [...]

Press Conference East River Walk, UNHQ Australian Government News – Australian Entities New York Transcript, E&OE, proof only 26 September Senator Carr: Ladies and gentlemen, some of the responses to the Prime Minister’s speech around the General Assembly were delegates saying, “You’ve made your point. You are not America. You are not Europe. You are [...]

Press Conference following Non-Proliferation and Disarmament Initiative Ministerial Meeting Australian Government News – Australian Entities New York Transcript, E&OE, proof only 26 September Senator Carr: Ladies and gentlemen, I am honoured to open comments from my distinguished colleagues here. Might I say at this meeting we resolved to move forward with practical steps that will [...]

Climate change Micronesia’s biggest and continuing challenge, President tells UN debate United Nations 27 September 2012 With climate change representing the “biggest challenge” to his country, the President of Micronesia, Emanuel Mori, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly, today urged UN Member States to confront the phenomenon “more urgently, and more creatively.” [...]

Media Release: National Police Remembrance Day – Honouring lives lost in the line of duty Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Friday, September 28 2012, 08:34 AM Police across Australia and the Southwest Pacific will today pay tribute to the officers who have lost their lives while on duty, marking this year’s National [...]

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at the Naval Observatory United States White House blog Posted by Jose Cerda and Carlos Elizondo on September 27, 2012 at 05:46 PM EDT On Wednesday evening at the Naval Observatory, Vice President and Dr. Biden hosted their fourth annual reception in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, which began on September 15 [...]

UN launches guidance to ensure effective conflict mediation United Nations 27 September 2012 The United Nations today launched new guidance to assist mediators as they help settle disputes and conflicts peacefully, outlining eight key fundamentals to ensure an effective process. The UN Guidance for Effective Mediation draws extensively from the Organization’s own [...]

Empowering women is key to building a future we want, Nobel laureate says United Nations 27 September 2012 New York — Empowering women and girls with more choices and more freedoms is crucial to achieving a better future for all, Amartya Sen, Nobel laureate and a founder of UNDP’s Human Development Index, said Thursday. Women [...]

Coalition-Afghan Partnering Returns to Normal United States Department of Defense Coalition-Afghan Partnering Returns to Normal By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – Afghan and NATO troops have resumed partnered operations which were suspended earlier this month because of a series of deadly insider attacks, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta announced during [...]

Panetta Discusses Syria, Libya, Asia-Pacific Issues United States Department of Defense Panetta Discusses Syria, Libya, Asia-Pacific Issues By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta told reporters today that unilateral U.S. military intervention in Syria would be “a serious mistake.” The secretary and Army Gen. [...]

Structure of United Nations needs adjustment, Brunei’s Crown Prince tells General Debate United Nations 27 September 2012 While expressing satisfaction with the work of the United Nations, the Crown Prince of Brunei Darussalam, Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, today told the UN General Assembly that the world body’s structure is in need of adjustment to [...]

Launch of OECD Internet Economy Outlook 2012 at Budapest Conference on Cyberspace, Thursday 4 October 2012 OECD   27/09/2012 – Cyber attacks on business, governments and infrastructure are rising fast, costing the global economy billions of dollars each year. Boosting international co-operation to strengthen internet governance and ensure the continuing free flow of information over [...]

Center Explores Combat Rations to Optimize Warfighter Capability United States Department of Defense Center Explores Combat Rations to Optimize Warfighter Capability By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service NATICK, Mass., Sept. 27, 2012 – Is your body feeling run down from all those dismounted patrols? Take a bite of lemon poppy seed cake in your combat [...]

Army Surgeon Shares PTSD Struggles to Help Others United States Department of Defense Army Surgeon Shares PTSD Struggles to Help Others By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – As the Army conducts a worldwide stand-down today to draw attention to preventing suicide within the force, those who have survived attempts to [...]

Western Pacific Region nearing 2012 milestone in hepatitis B control External Global Bodies HANOI, 27 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) is optimistic the Western Pacific Region will reach its milestone of reducing the prevalence of hepatitis B infection to less than 2% among children of at least 5 years of age by [...]

Special Report: U.S. Pacific Command United States Department of Defense Special Report: U.S. Pacific Command American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 –   With clear direction from President Barack Obama and Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, Navy Adm. Samuel J. Locklear III, the new U.S. Pacific Command chief, said he’s using [...]

Family Matters Blog: Families Can Support Suicide Standdown United States Department of Defense Family Matters Blog: Families Can Support Suicide Standdown By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – As the Army conducts its worldwide standdown for suicide prevention today, there is something family members militarywide can do, too, and it only [...]

Online Toolkit Available for Mental Health Providers United States Department of Defense Online Toolkit Available for Mental Health Providers From a Department of Veterans Affairs News Release WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – The Department of Veterans Affairs has developed a new online community provider toolkit aimed at delivering support, therapeutic tools, and resources to community [...]

Army Releases August Suicide Data United States Department of Defense             The Army released suicide data today for the month of August.  During August, among active-duty soldiers, there were 16 potential suicides:  three have been confirmed as suicides and 13 remain under investigation.  For July, the Army reported 26 potential suicides among active-duty soldiers: [...]

Letter from the President Regarding Implementation Plan for the Whole-of-Government Vision Prescribed in the 2010 National Security Strategy United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 27, 2012 TEXT OF A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENTTO SELECTED CONGRESSIONAL COMMITTEE LEADERSHIP September 27, 2012 Dear Mr. Chairman: (Dear [...]

Myanmar’s democratic transition needs continued support, patience, President tells UN United Nations 27 September 2012 While Myanmar is making progress in its democratic transition, it faces a number of formidable challenges that will require both the continued support and patience of its people, the United Nations and the wider international community, the country’s President [...]

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Jay Carney en route Virginia Beach, Virginia, 9/27/2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 27, 2012 Aboard Air Force OneEn Route Virginia Beach, Virginia 11:00 A.M. EDT MR. CARNEY:  Welcome aboard Air Force One.  We’re very excited to be [...]

At General Debate, Mongolia’s President calls for more women in leadership positions United Nations 27 September 2012 The vital role of women in society was a key feature in the speech of Mongolia’s President Tsakhia Elbegdorj to the United Nations General Assembly today, with a particular call for more women in leadership positions. [...]

WHO calls for strategic investments in HIV to halt new infections External Global Bodies HANOI, 27 September 2012 – World Health Organization Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Shin Young-soo today urged Member States in the Region to translate commitment into action by accelerating implementation of the HIV interventions agreed on at a high-level [...]

DOD Implements New Flight Cancellation Policy for Travelers United States Department of Defense DOD Implements New Flight Cancellation Policy for Travelers By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – The Defense Department is working with airlines to implement a new flight cancellation policy that will affect [...]

Today’s Economic Data United States White House blog Alan Krueger September 27, 2012 11:57 AM EDT More than the usual amount of economic statistics were released this morning. As a whole, today’s economic news shows that while we are still fighting back from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression, we are making progress. [...]

UN chief urges countries to show ‘true leadership’ and join nuclear-test-ban treaty United Nations 27 September 2012 Stressing that the entry into force of the United Nations-backed treaty banning nuclear tests would be a milestone in advancing the cause of nuclear disarmament, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today renewed his call on those States that have [...]

Stavridis: Cooperation Key in Tackling Piracy Threat United States Department of Defense Stavridis: Cooperation Key in Tackling Piracy Threat By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 27, 2012 – Hoping to build on successes over the past year in combating piracy, the top U.S. commander in Europe and other key stakeholders in the fight [...]

Presidential Memorandum — Aviation Insurance Coverage for Commercial Air Carrier Service in Domestic and International Operations United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 27, 2012 MEMORANDUM FOR THE SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION SUBJECT: Provision of Aviation Insurance Coverage for Commercial Air Carrier Service in Domestic and [...]

More than 3,000 Congolese flee to Uganda to escape clashes United Nations News Stories, 27 September 2012 © UNHCR/G.Katende Congolese refugees arrive in Uganda earlier this year from North Kivu province. KAMPALA, Uganda, September 27 (UNHCR) – The UN refugee agency said Thursday that fighting between rebel fighters and a militia group in eastern Congo [...]

Ban hails agreements between Sudan and South Sudan on post-secession issues United Nations 27 September 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan for signing agreements on security, the common border and economic relations during talks in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa. “These agreements provide vital elements in [...]

Lauding Yemen’s progress, Ban calls for continued support to protect ‘fragile gains’ United Nations 27 September 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today congratulated Yemen for the progress it has made in its democratic transition and called on the international community to support the Middle Eastern nation so it can ‘protect its fragile gains’ and address [...]

Nepali activist receives UN-backed award for work on forest management United Nations 27 September 2012 Nepali activist Narayan Kaji Shrestha has been honoured with the first-ever Wangari Maathai Award for his work promoting community forest management, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) announced today. The Award, which was established by [...]

Carter Visits F-16 International Training School United States Department of Defense Carter Visits F-16 International Training School By Air Force Lt. Col. Christine Rhodes162nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs TUSCON, Ariz., Sept. 27, 2012 – Deputy Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter visited the 162nd Fighter Wing at Tucson International Airport here yesterday to learn about international [...]

Sri Lanka’s displacement chapter nears end with closure of Menik Farm United Nations News Stories, 27 September 2012 © UNHCR/S.Perera Manikkarasan Nathan (second from left) and his family finally return home back after leaving Menik Farm camp. COLOMBO, Sri Lanka, September 27 (UNHCR) – Menik Farm, once the world’s largest camp for internally displaced people [...]

Ex-refugees at Strasbourg meet tell of discrimination in finding work United Nations News Stories, 27 September 2012 © UNHCR Participants earlier today in Strasbourg at the Colloquium on the Right to Work for Refugees. STRASBOURG, France, September 27 (UNHCR) – Former refugees attending a seminar in Strasbourg today told of the obstacles and discrimination they [...]

At high-level meeting, Ban urges political solution to crisis in eastern DR Congo United Nations 27 September 2012 Stressing the need to end the suffering caused by the crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which has uprooted over 300,000 civilians since earlier this year, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called for an [...]

Helen Clark: Friends of Yemen Meeting, 27 September, New York United Nations 27 September 2012 I wish to begin by commending the President of the Republic of Yemen for the leadership he is giving to the important transition taking place in Yemen. Critical processes are getting underway: the launching of a national dialogue process; establishing [...]

Scale up measures to counter artemisinin-resistant malaria, WHO urges External Global Bodies HANOI, 27 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned that measures to stop the spread of malaria parasites resistant to the drug artemisinin need to be expanded following growing evidence that resistance has now emerged in southern and central Viet [...]

Face of Defense: Marine Recalls Camp Bastion Attack United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Marine Recalls Camp Bastion Attack By Marine Corps Sgt. James MercureRegional Command Southwest AFGHANISTAN, Sept. 27, 2012 – “There was blood down my leg after I got shot,” recalled Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Ethan Burk, who was present during [...]

Remarks by the President at Kent State University United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 26, 2012 Kent State UniversityKent, Ohio 5:40 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Kent State!  (Applause.)  Hello!  Hello, Ohio!  Go, Flashes!  (Applause.)  Well, let’s begin by giving Bryan a big round [...]

DACnews September 2012 OECD  SEPTEMBER 2012‌ Aid for Food and Nutrition Security Food and nutrition security (FNS) gained a high level of political attention following the 2007-08 rise in food prices that featured, for instance, on the G8 and G20 agendas. Working to improve support for food and nutrition security, the 2009 L’Aquila Food Security [...]

Combined Force Detains Insurgents, Seizes Narcotics United States Department of Defense Combined Force Detains Insurgents, Seizes Narcotics From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 27, 2012 – A combined security force detained several suspected insurgents during an operation to arrest a Taliban facilitator in the Washer district of Helmand [...]

UN and partners seek US$ 487.9 million to help Syrian refugees as numbers continue to rise United Nations Press Releases, 27 September 2012 The United Nations and its humanitarian partners issued a revised appeal today for US$487.9 million to support Syrian refugees. The Regional Response Plan for Syrian Refugees outlines the plans of 52 humanitarian [...]

UNHCR and partners seek extra US$295 million for Syria refugee ops United Nations News Stories, 27 September 2012 © UNHCR/S.Malkawi A Syrian refugee woman holds her child in Jordan’s Zaátri camp, where the needs are many. GENEVA, September 27 (UNHCR) – The United Nations and its humanitarian aid partners on Thursday called on donors for [...]

UN and partners seek US$ 487.9 million to help Syrian refugees as numbers continue to rise United Nations Press Releases, 27 September 2012 The United Nations and its humanitarian partners issued a revised appeal today for US$487.9 million to support Syrian refugees. The Regional Response Plan for Syrian Refugees outlines the plans of 52 humanitarian [...]

UNHCR and partners seek extra US$295 million for Syria refugee ops United Nations News Stories, 27 September 2012 © UNHCR/S.Malkawi A Syrian refugee woman holds her child in Jordan’s Zaátri camp, where the needs are many. GENEVA, September 27 (UNHCR) – The United Nations and its humanitarian aid partners on Thursday called on donors for [...]

Speech by Dr Shin Young-soo, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, at the Opening Ceremony of the Sixty-third session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Western Pacific External Global Bodies Her Excellency Nguyen Thi Doan, Vice President of Viet Nam Hon. Nguyen Thi Kim Tien, Minister of Health [...]

WHO urges increased investments in health for achieving universal health coverage External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) today urged Member States in the Western Pacific Region to develop strategies to increase and use more efficiently their investments in health as a means to achieve universal health coverage in [...]

Collaboration key to achieving MDGs, building on decade of progress United Nations 26 September 2012 New York — World leaders today called for a continued, united front in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), highlighting the need to ramp up global efforts to eradicate poverty and empower the world’s most vulnerable people to [...]

Helen Clark: “Delivering on the MDGs: Accelerating for the future” United Nations 26 September 2012 Remarks for Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator at theUNDP Side Event “Delivering on the MDGs: Accelerating for the future”Opening of the 67th UN General Assembly The Millennium Hotel, Weds 26 Sept Thank you for joining us for UNDP’s side event on [...]

Football unites international community in campaign to end violence against women United Nations 26 September 2012 UNDP‘s Heraldo Muñoz, UN Women‘s Michelle Bachelet and Bolivan president Evo Morales joined in a friendly football/soccer match in support of the Secretary General’s campaign UNite to End Violence Against Women. PHOTO: UN Women/Catianne Tijerina New York – Top [...]

At UN debate, Kiribati’s President urges increased efforts to mitigate impact of rising seas United Nations 26 September 2012 The President of Kiribati, a mainly low-lying Pacific archipelago that is one of the states most threatened by rising seas, today appealed to the United Nations to step up efforts to curb global greenhouse emissions [...]

Official visit of the OECD Secretary-General to Indonesia (Jakarta, 27th-28th September 2012) OECD OECD Home <!– Accueil de l’OCDE –> › Indonesia › Official visit of the OECD Secretary-General to Indonesia (Jakarta, 27th-28th September 2012)   On the occasion of this official visit to Jakarta, the Secretary-General will present the OECD Economic Survey of Indonesia, [...]

Indonesia should improve governance, productivity and tax collection to promote inclusive growth OECD OECD Home <!– Accueil de l’OCDE –> › Indonesia › Indonesia should improve governance, productivity and tax collection to promote inclusive growth   27/09/2012 – Indonesia has improved its macro-economic and structural policies over the last 15 years. Its economy, with strong [...]

FANONGONONGO: Lao Fakaangaanga ‘e 8 lolotonga ‘i Fale Alea Pacific Islands Governments 27 Sepitema 2012 |ENGLSIH | Ko e Fanongonongo ‘o e Fakamatala Fakapule’anga ko e ngaahi Lao Fakaangaanga ‘oku lolotonga ‘i he Fale Alea. FANONGONONGO ‘O E FAKAMATALA FAKAPULE’ANGA KO E NGAAHI LAO FAKAANGAANGA ‘OKU LOLOTONGA ‘I HE FALE ALEA Ko e ‘Ofisi ‘o [...]

Security Council welcomes growing cooperation between UN and Arab League United Nations 26 September 2012 The Security Council today welcomed the growing cooperation between the United Nations system and the League of Arab States in the wake of the transformations taking place across the Middle East and North Africa. The Council also [...]

Irina Bokova joins UN Secretary-General to launch his new global “Education First” initiative United Nations “Education First” seeks to mobilize all partners – traditional and new – to put education on top of the development agenda. The initiative will target three priorities — promoting better equity in access, improving the quality of learning and promoting [...]

At UN debate, Australian Prime Minister re-affirms commitment to world body’s ideals United Nations 26 September 2012 In her speech to the United Nations General Assembly today, the Prime Minister of Australia, Julia Gillard, covered a wide range of topical issues on the global agenda, as well as her country’s efforts in each of [...]

Media Release: Further arrests laid in multimillion dollar identity crime syndicate investigation Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Thursday, September 27 2012, 09:31 AM This is a joint media release between the AFP, NSW Police, RMS and DIAC A 48-year-old Ryde man and a 40-year-old Ryde woman are the latest arrests in [...]

Japan determined to pass on lessons from its nuclear disaster, UN General Assembly told United Nations 26 September 2012 Recalling that a year and a half had gone by since the earthquake which struck his country last March, Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda of Japan today told the United Nations General Assembly that his Government [...]

Effectiveness, coherence and results at the heart of Sweden-UNDP Partnership United Nations 26 September 2012 UNDP Administrator Helen Clark meets with Sweden Minister for Int’l Development Cooperation Gunila Carlsson, September 26, 2012. (Credit: Paulo Filgueras) Realizing an inclusive consultation process for the post-2015 human development agenda, UN coordination and development effectiveness were three issues highlighted [...]

The Office of Protection and Advocacy Kicked Off Their Two Day Seminar Today at the Tradewinds Hotel—“Promoting Self Advocacy & Leadership” Pacific Islands Governments The Office of Protection and Advocacy Kicked Off Their Two Day Seminar Today at the Tradewinds Hotel—“Promoting Self Advocacy & Leadership” Details Thursday, 20 September 2012 [...]

India: Two million displaced by floods; fresh rainfalls hampering relief operation External Global Bodies 09/26/2012 14:35 GMT by Zarir Hussain guwahati, India, Sept 26, 2012 (AFP) – Rains hampered a military air operation to help flood victims in northeastern India, where more than two million people have been forced from their homes, officials said Wednesday. [...]

Panelists Brainstorm to Buffer Against Supply Chain Threat United States Department of Defense Panelists Brainstorm to Buffer Against Supply Chain Threat By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – Defense Department and National Security Agency officials met with members of academia and industry today to discuss managing and protecting an ever-more-global, commercial [...]

Empowering Women and Girls in the United States and Abroad United States White House blog This week, we took two major steps in empowering women and girls both here in the United States and abroad. On Monday, we announced Equal Futures, a partnership between the U.S. and other nations to advance the rights and opportunities [...]

‘No time to lose’ to advance peace and democracy in Somalia – Ban United Nations 26 September 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today praised Somalia for the progress in its democratic transition and called on the international community to continue supporting the East African nation, stressing that “there is no time to lose” as the [...]

Join a Live Video Chat on Combatting Human Trafficking United States White House blog Erin Lindsay September 26, 2012 03:20 PM EDT Yesterday, President Obama spoke at the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Meeting about his administration’s efforts to combat human trafficking and made it clear that the United States will continue to be a leader [...]

Administration Teams Up to Bring Jobs Back to America United States White House blog Rebecca Blank and Hilda SolisSeptember 26, 2012 02:30 PM EDT Yesterday, the U.S. Departments of Commerce and Labor announced the Make it in America Challenge – a $40 million multi-agency competition that will help accelerate business investments in the U.S. This includes [...]

Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event — Bowling Green, OH United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 26, 2012 Bowling Green State UniversityBowling Green, Ohio 1:25 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Falcons!  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Now, let me begin [...]

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Jay Carney Aboard Air Force One en route Ohio, 09/26/12 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 26, 2012 Aboard Air Force OneEn Route Ohio 11:33 A.M. EDT MR. CARNEY:  Welcome aboard Air Force One, past travelers as well as [...]

Natick Center Strives to Improve Combat Ration Quality, Taste United States Department of Defense Natick Center Strives to Improve Combat Ration Quality, Taste By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – The Meal, Ready to Eat could go the way of the World War II-era C-ration and spinoffs of it that the [...]

Education Drives America United States White House blog Prev Next Education Secretary Arne Duncan walks to the tour bus at Denver International Airport (All Official White House Photos by Chuck Kennedy) 1 of 21 Education Secretary Arne Duncan dances the “Cupid Shuffle” with students at Lowry Elementary School in Denver, Colo. 2 of 21 Education [...]

UNESCO Conference on Preservation of Digital Heritage United Nations In a video message to participants, Irina Bokova, Director General of UNESCO, underlined that “the increase in digital documents as the main means of communication and transmission of information, not to mention their short life expectancy, is a source of concern to UNESCO.” These concerns underpin [...]

Press release – Financial trading rules: Economic Affairs Committee MEPs outline reform plan – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs European Union Investors would have to be offered financial products that are tailored to their needs, and so they should be less likely to be misled, under new uniform trading rules unanimously approved by the [...]

DOD Focuses on Leaders, Recruits in Sexual Assault Prevention United States Department of Defense DOD Focuses on Leaders, Recruits in Sexual Assault Prevention By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – Defense Department measures announced yesterday focus on military commanders and new recruits as key combatants in the battle against sexual assault, [...]

DOD Focuses on Leaders, Recruits in Sexual Assault Prevention United States Department of Defense DOD Focuses on Leaders, Recruits in Sexual Assault Prevention By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – Defense Department measures announced yesterday focus on military commanders and new recruits as key combatants in the battle against sexual assault, [...]

Japan’s Growth Challenge-Special Case or Herald for the Future IMF Opening Remarks by David Lipton First Deputy Managing Director, International Monetary Fund Seminar, IMF, Washington D.C., September 26, 2012 As prepared for delivery Good morning. It is my great pleasure to welcome you to today’s seminar on “Japan’s Growth Challenge – Special Case or [...]

U.S.-Philippine Alliance Critical to Asia-Pacific, Official Says United States Department of Defense U.S.-Philippine Alliance Critical to Asia-Pacific, Official Says By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – The U.S.-Philippine alliance plays a prominent role in the security landscape of the Asia-Pacific region, and the Defense Department [...]

Development programmes must engage informal justice systems, UN study says United Nations 26 September 2012 Human rights, access to justice for all must play central role New York — Informal or traditional justice systems resolve up to 80 percent of disputes in some countries and must be integrated into broader development initiatives aimed at guaranteeing [...]

WHO urges countries to meet health-related MDGs External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – “With the deadline for attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) only three years away, wide disparities between and within countries need to be urgently addressed if the goals are to truly benefit vulnerable populations,” World Health Organization (WHO) Regional [...]

Face of Defense: Military Couple Extends Family From Africa United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Military Couple Extends Family From Africa By Army Sgt. Adrianna Barnes16th Combat Aviation Brigade JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash., Sept. 26, 2012 – Adoptions can be both challenging and rewarding, but the challenges military couples face can be uniquely [...]

Coalition, Afghan Troops Arrest 2 Taliban Leaders United States Department of Defense Coalition, Afghan Troops Arrest 2 Taliban Leaders From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 26, 2012 – A combined coalition and Afghan security force arrested two Taliban leaders — an attack commander and an improvised explosive device [...]

Military Commissions Media Invitation Announced United States Department of Defense United States v. Khalid Sheikh Mohammed et. al.             The Department of Defense and the Office of Military Commissions will allocate seats for news media aboard military chartered aircraft for travel from Andrews Air Force Base, Md., to Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, [...]

International aid sought in fight against terrorism, Yemen’s President tells UN debate United Nations 26 September 2012 Addressing the United Nations General Assembly, Yemen’s President Abdrabu Mansour Hadi today appealed to Heads of State and Government for more help in combating terrorism in his country where he said that Al-Qaida, although weaker, is still [...]

Leadership of Pacific island nations vital to tackling global challenges, says Ban United Nations 26 September 2012 The United Nations is counting on the leadership and active engagement of Pacific island nations in tackling some of today’s pressing challenges, including achieving the anti-poverty targets known as the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), advancing sustainable development [...]

Press release – Gender equality debate: What do the parliaments of the European Union do? – Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality European Union How can gender equality be advanced through legislation, internal staff policies and communication policy? How can it be promoted among politicians in parliaments and government? These topics will be debated [...]

Panetta Shares Perspectives From Latest Trip United States Department of Defense Panetta Shares Perspectives From Latest Trip American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 26, 2012 – In a message to the men and women of the Defense Department, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta shared his perspectives from his recent trip to the Asia-Pacific region. [...]

Tuk-tuk project drives Somali IDPs in search of self-sufficiency United Nations News Stories, 26 September 2012 © UNHCR Photo A fleet of tuk-tuks do business in Galkayo, bringing the promise of better times for the small teams of displaced people who maintain and drive them. GALKAYO, Somalia, September 26 (UNHCR) – Mohamed Issa Hussein, a [...]

President Obama Signs Washington Disaster Declaration United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Washington and ordered Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by a [...]

Press release – Banking union: Economic Affairs Committee starts work on supervision proposals – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs European Union The banking supervision legislation debated in detail in the Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee on Wednesday was rather less warmly received than many other Commission proposals have been. MEPs nonetheless stressed the urgent [...]

WHO pushes for Healthy Settings approaches to safeguard people’s health External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization’s governing body in the Western Pacific Region today urged Member States to scale up Healthy Settings approaches that can enable people to prevent diseases and promote health. Healthy Cities, Healthy Islands and other [...]

WHO calls for setting targets and indicators to intensify efforts against noncommunicable diseases External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Committee for the Western Pacific today reviewed the progress so far on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and called for multisectoral action and development of targets and indicators for NCD [...]

WHO gives full support to Australia’s plain tobacco packaging External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to stand with Australia as it resists the tobacco industry’s efforts to prevent plain packaging of tobacco products. “Australia scored a major victory when its highest court recently upheld the country’s novel [...]

UNESCO Conference on Preservation of Digital Heritage: Preventing Digital Alzheimer United Nations In a video message to participants, Irina Bokova, Director General of UNESCO, underlined that “the increase in digital documents as the main means of communication and transmission of information, not to mention their short life expectancy, is a source of concern to UNESCO.” [...]

Princess Royal to visit Commonwealth youth centre in Zambia Commonwealth Secretariat Anne, the Princess Royal, will visit the Commonwealth Youth Programme Regional Centre for Africa in Lusaka, Zambia, on 27 September 2012 as part of her four-day official visit to the country to mark the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. At the [...]

Feature – A Euro-Mediterranean Music Celebration in Cyprus European Union Geographically positioned at the crossroads of three continents, Cyprus has always been a melting pot of different civilizations, from ancient times through to the present day. From Thursday, September 27 until Sunday, September 30, the island will act as a ‘filoxenos topos’, a hospitable place, [...]

Seven neglected tropical diseases set for elimination External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a road map to help countries in the Western Pacific Region banish neglected tropical diseases to the pages of history. Dr Shin Young-soo, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, presented to the [...]

WHO alarmed by high level of violence and injuries External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The World Health Organization today urged Member States in the Western Pacific Region to implement an enhanced response to violence and injuries to prevent an anticipated increase in mortality and morbidity from such causes. “The annual number of [...]

Countries in the Western Pacific Region push for measles elimination External Global Bodies HANOI, 26 September 2012 – The Western Pacific Region could soon become the second of the six regions of the World Health Organization (WHO) to eliminate measles. “We have a chance to eliminate a terrible, yet preventable disease from our Region,” Dr [...]

Press Conference, Rose Garden, UNHQ Australian Government News – Australian Entities Transcript, E&OE, proof only 25 September SENATOR CARR: Just a few things on what I’ve had to do today. I’ve chaired a meeting of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Australia — the forum we’ve got with the nations of the Gulf. [...]

Autorité de la concurrence Pacific Islands Governments Autorité de la concurrence Les deux rapports sur la concurrence remis au gouvernement et aux partenaires sociaux.   L’Autorité de la concurrence a conclu la mission d’expertise que lui avait confiée le Gouvernement de la Nouvelle Calédonie le 14 février dernier par la remise de deux rapports d’analyse. [...]

Minister for Defence – Speech to the National Institute for Defense Studies (NIDS) Australian Government News – Australian Entities Thank you Professor [Takamizawa] for your invitation to speak today at the National Institute for Defense Studies (NIDS). It is a great pleasure to again be in Tokyo. I am delighted to have this opportunity to [...]

Minister for Defence – Defence Minister completes Japan visit Australian Government News – Australian Entities Today I completed my visit to Japan where I held bilateral talks with my counterpart, Defence Minister Morimoto. This was my first visit to Japan as Minister for Defence and my seventh visit as an Australian Government Minister. Mr Morimoto [...]

Recognition for sustained partnership between France and UNDP United Nations 25 September 2012 UNDP Administrator Helen Clark meets with France Minister for Development Pascal Canfin. UN Photo: Paulo Filgueras New York – With a decades-long history of cooperation between France and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), French Minister for Development Pascal Canfin and UNDP [...]

At UN debate, Afghan President highlights country as testament to multi-lateral cooperation United Nations 25 September 2012 In his speech to the United Nations General Assembly’s high-level debate today, the President of Afghanistan, Hamid Karzai, highlighted his nation as a testament to the “benefits of multi-lateral cooperation and international solidarity,” while also calling for [...]

Media Release: Stay safe when banking on the go with your mobile and tablet Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Wednesday, September 26 2012, 10:41 AM This is a joint media release with the Australian Bankers’ Association and the Australian Federal Police. Banks and police have produced some handy information to help [...]

World leaders reaffirm commitment at UN event to help post-conflict nations build peace United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations Peacebuilding Commission today reaffirmed its commitment to assisting post-conflict countries in achieving sustainable peace, and emphasized the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response to their security and development challenges. Heads [...]

World leaders reaffirm commitment at UN event to help post-conflict nations build peace United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations Peacebuilding Commission today reaffirmed its commitment to assisting post-conflict countries in achieving sustainable peace, and emphasized the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response to their security and development challenges. Heads [...]

At General Assembly, Pakistan President stresses importance of democracy, UN reform United Nations 25 September 2012 Underscoring his country’s commitment to peace and democracy, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari told the United Nations General Assembly today that his country had undergone “unprecedented reforms,” while also recalling the country’s many difficulties in achieving them. [...]

At General Assembly, Pakistan President stresses importance of democracy, UN reform United Nations 25 September 2012 Underscoring his country’s commitment to peace and democracy, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari told the United Nations General Assembly today that his country had undergone “unprecedented reforms,” while also recalling the country’s many difficulties in achieving them. [...]

Visit to Tulagi hospital, Central Province for malaria funding announcement Australian Government News – Australian Entities Speech, E&OE, (check against delivery) 18 September 2012 When I was confronted by the warriors I was wondering whether I had done, or Australia had done, something to offend the local community, but I was relieved [...]

At UN, Finnish leader calls for continued efforts to agree on treaty for conventional arms trade United Nations 25 September 2012 While expressing regret over the failure of recent negotiations for a treaty to regulate the conventional arms trade, the President of Finland, Sauli Niinistö, today told the United Nations General Assembly today that [...]

Singapore and UNDP enter a new era of cooperation — establish Global Centre for InnovationNOVATION AND RESEARCH IN PUBLIC SERVICE United Nations 25 September 2012 New York – The Government of Singapore and the United Nations Development Programme signed an agreement today establishing a Global Centre for Public Service Excellence in Singapore dedicated to policy [...]

Dempsey: Leadership, Trust Essential to Battling Suicide United States Department of Defense Dempsey: Leadership, Trust Essential to Battling Suicide By Claudette RouloAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – Military leaders have changed the way they approach suicide prevention, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said during a recent interview with American [...]

Official Reaffirms DOD Commitment to Cybersecurity United States Department of Defense Official Reaffirms DOD Commitment to Cybersecurity By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The Defense Department remains vigilant and committed to cybersecurity, especially since its cyber operations present a target for hackers, a senior [...]

Defense Department Studies Families Mourning Service Members United States Department of Defense Defense Department Studies Families Mourning Service Members By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The Defense Department’s Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences is conducting the nation’s first large-scale study of the impact of a service member’s death on [...]

Press Gaggle by Press Secretary Jay Carney and Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes, 9/25/12 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 Aboard Air Force OneEn Route Andrews Air Force Base 2:10 P.M. EDT MR. CARNEY:  Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen.  Thanks for [...]

Partnered Coalition Operations Continue Despite Insider Attacks United States Department of Defense Partnered Coalition Operations Continue Despite Insider Attacks By Nick SimeoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – Partnered operations between coalition and Afghan forces are continuing despite a decision by the top U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan to scale them back [...]

DOD Backs Efforts to Keep Junk Food Out of Schools United States Department of Defense DOD Backs Efforts to Keep Junk Food Out of Schools By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The Defense Department today underscored its support for the work of a group of retired generals and admirals who [...]

Businesses commit to improve lives of more than 34 million people United Nations 25 September 2012 New York —A broad range of companies from corporations to social enterprises made new commitments Tuesday to the Business Call to Action (BCtA) that will improve the lives of more than 34 million people worldwide, through market-based approaches that [...]

Press release – Member states must stop dragging their feet, say single market MEPs – Committee on the Internal Market and Consumer Protection European Union EU citizens still do not benefit fully from the single market, said MEPs in a resolution adopted on Tuesday. They point to difficulties opening bank accounts, registering cars and having [...]

DOD to Revise Sexual Assault Prevention Training United States Department of Defense DOD to Revise Sexual Assault Prevention Training By Claudette RouloAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – Calling sexual assault “an affront to basic human values,” Pentagon Press Secretary George Little announced today that the Defense Department is revising its sexual assault [...]

More Airports Offer Streamlined Security Screening United States Department of Defense More Airports Offer Streamlined Security Screening By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – Active duty service members and other eligible travelers now have more opportunity to take advantage of streamlined security check-in, as Transportation Security Administration officials have added two [...]

Silver Star Recipients Added to Valor Site United States Department of Defense Silver Star Recipients Added to Valor Site American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – Officials have added the names of those who have received Silver Star awards to a website listing recipients of the nation’s highest awards for valor. [...]

President Obama Addresses the United Nations United States White House blog Matt Compton September 25, 2012 01:40 PM EDT President Barack Obama addresses the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the United Nations in New York, N.Y., Sept. 25, 2012. Sitting on the dais are: U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, UNGA President Vuk Jeremić and [...]

Remarks by the President to the Clinton Global Initiative United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 Sheraton New York Hotel and TowersNew York, New York 12:34 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Thank you very much.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  Appreciate it.  Please, please, everybody have [...]

Comptroller Outlines Continuing Resolution, Sequestration United States Department of Defense Comptroller Outlines Continuing Resolution, Sequestration By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The continuing resolution the Senate approved Sept. 22 and the president is expected to sign this week will affect short- and long-term Defense Department spending in coming months, a [...]

Ecuador: Over 2,900 wild fires destroy more than 15,500 hectares of land in eight provinces External Global Bodies GLIDE n° FR-2012-000167-ECU The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) is a source of un-earmarked money created by the Federation in 1985 to ensure that immediate financial support is [...]

Ecuador: Over 2,900 wild fires destroy more than 15,500 hectares of land in eight provinces External Global Bodies GLIDE n° FR-2012-000167-ECU The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) Disaster Relief Emergency Fund (DREF) is a source of un-earmarked money created by the Federation in 1985 to ensure that immediate financial support is [...]

Benghazi Attackers Struck Against U.N. Ideals, Obama Says United States Department of Defense Benghazi Attackers Struck Against U.N. Ideals, Obama Says By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The assault on the U.S. Consulate earlier this month in Benghazi, Libya, was an attack not only on America, but also on the [...]

Benghazi Attackers Struck Against U.N. Ideals, Obama Says United States Department of Defense Benghazi Attackers Struck Against U.N. Ideals, Obama Says By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 25, 2012 – The assault on the U.S. Consulate earlier this month in Benghazi, Libya, was an attack not only on America, but also on the [...]

Department of Defense Expands Sexual Assault Prevention Efforts United States Department of Defense             As part of the Department of Defense’s efforts to confront the crime of sexual assault in the military, today the department announced improvements to prospective commander and senior enlisted training and a review of the initial military training environment in [...]

Department of Defense Expands Sexual Assault Prevention Efforts United States Department of Defense             As part of the Department of Defense’s efforts to confront the crime of sexual assault in the military, today the department announced improvements to prospective commander and senior enlisted training and a review of the initial military training environment in [...]

Remarks by the President to the UN General Assembly United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 United Nations HeadquartersNew York, New York  10:22 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Mr. President, Mr. Secretary General, fellow delegates, ladies and gentleman:  I would like to begin today [...]

Finnish leader calls for continued efforts to agree on treaty for conventional arms trade United Nations 25 September 2012 While expressing regret over the failure of recent negotiations for a treaty to regulate the conventional arms trade, the President of Finland, Sauli Niinistö, today told the United Nations General Assembly today that it is [...]

At UN session, Cyprus leader calls on Turkey to cease ‘gunboat diplomacy’ United Nations 25 September 2012 President Demetris Christofias of the Republic of Cyprus today called on Turkish Cypriot leaders to return to talks to reunite the divided island and accused Turkey of provocative behaviour, gunboat diplomacy and trying to alter the country’s [...]

Press release – Nominations for 2012 Sakharov Prize for freedom of thought presented by MEPs – Subcommittee on Human Rights – Committee on Development – Committee on Foreign Affairs European Union Five nominations for the 2012 Sakharov Prize for freedom of thought were presented at a joint meeting of the Foreign Affairs and Development committees [...]

Face of Defense: Soldier Intervenes to Help Troubled Friend United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Soldier Intervenes to Help Troubled Friend By Army Sgt. Megan Garcia3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment ARLINGTON, Va., Sept. 25, 2012 – The day Army Sgt. Sheldon Benjamin’s friend asked him if he wanted his TV, Sheldon knew that something [...]

Combined Force Kills Taliban Weapons Dealer United States Department of Defense Combined Force Kills Taliban Weapons Dealer From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 25, 2012 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed a Taliban weapons dealer and destroyed his cache of illegal weapons during an operation in [...]

Tune In: President Obama Addresses the United Nations General Assembly United States White House blog President Obama will address the General Assembly of the United Nations in New York this morning at 10:10 am EDT. You can watch the President’s remarks live on whitehouse.gov/live. Later Tuesday, at 12:10 pm EDT, whitehouse.gov will also stream the [...]

Fact Sheet: the Obama Administration Announces Efforts to Combat Human Trafficking at Home and Abroad United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 “It ought to concern every person, because it’s a debasement of our common humanity.  It ought to concern every community, because [...]

Fact Sheet: Executive Order Strengthening Protections Against Trafficking in Persons in Federal Contracts United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 More than 20 million men, women, and children worldwide are victims of human trafficking.  Companies around the world are taking steps to eliminate [...]

Executive Order – Strengthening Protections Against Trafficking In Persons In Federal Contracts United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 25, 2012 EXECUTIVE ORDER – – – – – – – STRENGTHENING PROTECTIONS AGAINST TRAFFICKINGIN PERSONS IN FEDERAL CONTRACTS By the authority vested in me as [...]

Iraq: UN envoy welcomes selection of members of electoral body United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations envoy in Iraq today welcomed the appointment of eight of the nine members of the Board of Commissioners of the country’s electoral commission, while voicing regret at the absence of women on the panel. [...]

Citizens’ voices key to renewed post-2015 development agenda, says UNDP Chief United Nations 25 September 2012 New York — Public consultation in more than 50 developing countries will be part of a global process to ensure citizens’ views underpin the design of a post-2015 human development agenda, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark [...]

Helen Clark: Towards 2015: Open Dialogue with the High-level Panel on the Post-2015 Development Agenda United Nations 25 September 2012 Remarks for Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator, At the Japan Contact Group side eventTowards 2015: Open Dialogue with the High-level Panel on the Post-2015 Development AgendaTuesday 25 September 2012New York, 11:30am I thank the Minister of [...]

UN rights chief voices concern over harsh sentences against bloggers in Viet Nam United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations human rights chief today voiced deep concern about the conviction and harsh sentencing of journalists and bloggers in Viet Nam, stressing that this reflects a trend of increasing restrictions on freedom of expression [...]

UN hails closing of Sri Lankan displaced persons camp United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations today welcomed the closing of a Sri Lankan camp that was once the world’s largest refuge for people displaced from the conflict with 225,000 residents but called for an urgent solution for a handful of people who [...]

Pakistan: UN agency begins food distribution to thousands affected by floods United Nations 25 September 2012 The United Nations today announced it has begun food distributions to tens of thousands of people affected by monsoon floods in the Sindh province of Pakistan, adding that it plans to expand assistance to the Balochistan province later [...]

WHO calls for expanded nutrition interventions to avert child deaths External Global Bodies HANOI, 25 September 2012 – With solid evidence pointing to proper nutrition as essential for survival, health and development, the World Health Organization raised malnutrition high on the agenda of the Regional Committee for the Western Pacific. The Regional Committee, WHO’s governing [...]

Commonwealth organisations discuss reform and renewal agenda Commonwealth Secretariat Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma addressed delegates from 24 Commonwealth accredited organisations on the associations reform and renewal agenda in London on 24 September. Mr Sharma discussed the upcoming Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Meeting, to be held in New York on 29 September, where ministers will discuss the [...]

Responding to a humanitarian crisis and saving lives: UNHCR in South Sudan United Nations News Stories, 25 September 2012 © UNHCR/G.Beals A group of Sudanese arrive in South Sudan carrying their belongings on their heads. YUSUF BATIL, South Sudan, September 25 (UNHCR) – Muktar thought of war as something far away – too distant to [...]

Irina Bokova leads High Level Debate at the UN on Peace and Non-Violence United Nations The opening addresses were followed by a debate between prominent intellectuals and peace advocates — including UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Forest Whitaker, Deputy Executive Director of UN Women, Lakshmi Puri, Wole Soyinka, Arjun Appadurai, Jeffrey Sachs, as well as Nasser David [...]

Business spending on research and development hits A$17.9 billion Australian Government News – Australian Entities 25 Sep 2012 Latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics reveals business spending on research and development (R&D) grew to $17.9 billion in 2010/11, an increase of seven per cent over the previous financial year. Businesses in the manufacturing industry [...]

Oz Fest in India Australian Government News – Australian Entities Foreign Minister Bob Carr today welcomed the commencement of India’s “Oz Fest,” a four-month celebration of contemporary Australian culture in 18 Indian cities including Delhi, Mumbai and Jaipur. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not [...]

Transcript: Press conference Australian Government News – Australian Entities Waldorf Astoria Hotel, New York Transcript, E&OE, proof only 24 September 2012 SENATOR CARR: Ladies and Gentlemen. I’m honoured to be talking to you about something as important as Australia’s bid for the Security Council. We think it’s appropriate that Australia put its virtues before the [...]

Support for four-point plan on peaceful islamic protest Australian Government News – Australian Entities Media release 21 September 2012 Australian Foreign Minister Bob Carr today welcomed support from French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius for a four-point invitation to Islamic peoples to peacefully respond to things they considered disrespectful or blasphemous. Senator Carr discussed the four-point [...]

Rt Hon Hugo Swire MP British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts) Hugo Swire MP was appointed Minister of State at the Foreign & Commonwealth Office on 4 September 2012. Responsibilities: Far East and South East Asia India and Nepal Latin America (including: Dominican Republic, Haiti and Cuba Falklands Australasia and Pacific Commonwealth   Unless expressly stated [...]

Pentagon Official Explains Asia-Pacific Focus United States Department of Defense Pentagon Official Explains Asia-Pacific Focus By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – The entire U.S. government has made a concerted effort to improve U.S.-China relations while implementing the tenets in the defense strategic guidance, a [...]

Happy Birthday, We The People! United States White House blog Erin Lindsay September 24, 2012 03:40 PM EDT A year ago, the White House launched We the People, a new platform that allows anyone to create or sign petitions asking the Obama Administration to take action on a range of issues. In just one year’s [...]

States to press for early entry into force of treaty banning nuclear tests at UN event United Nations 24 September 2012 Senior government officials will press for the early entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) when they meet later this week at United Nations Headquarters in New York, where the treaty [...]

Despite ‘very grim’ situation in Syria, UN-Arab League envoy sees glimmer of hope United Nations 24 September 2012 The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi, today announced that while the situation in Syria continues to be “very grim,” a solution may [...]

Fact Sheet: the Equal Futures Partnership to Expand Women’s Political and Economic Participation United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 24, 2012 “This week, the United States signed a new Declaration on Women’s Participation. Next year, we should each announce the steps we are taking [...]

Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, 09/24/2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 24, 2012 James S. Brady Press Briefing Room 11:44 A.M. EDT MR. CARNEY:  Good Monday morning, everyone.  Thanks for being here.  I have no announcements at the top of this [...]

Fact Sheet: the Equal Futures Partnership and United States Commitments to Expand Women’s Political and Ecomomic Participation United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 24, 2012 While the world has made significant strides in expanding opportunity for women and girls, continued inequalities remain, particularly in [...]

Eight Bills now considered by Legislative Assembly Pacific Islands Governments 24 September 2012 This is a public announcement from the Office of the Attorney General regarding the Bills that is now being considered by the Legislative Assembly . PUBLIC INFORMATION ANNOUNCEMENT THE BILLS NOW BEING CONSIDERED BY THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY The Attorney General’s Office is [...]

Panetta Discusses Efforts to Tackle Suicide United States Department of Defense Panetta Discusses Efforts to Tackle Suicide By Amaani LyleAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – In an interview with a North Carolina newspaper, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta voiced concern over suicide rates throughout the military and acknowledged the complexity of the [...]

Surveys Ensure Better-fitting Gear for Soldiers, Marines United States Department of Defense Surveys Ensure Better-fitting Gear for Soldiers, Marines By Donna MilesAmerican Forces Press Service NATICK, Mass., Sept. 24, 2012 – When it comes to combat clothing and gear, size matters for the folks at the Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center here. It’s [...]

Marines Charged in Desecration Incident Face Trial United States Department of Defense Marines Charged in Desecration Incident Face Trial From a Marine Corps Combat Development Command News Release QUANTICO, Va., Sept. 24, 2012 – Charges against two Marines were referred to trial by courts-martial Sept. 21 for their alleged involvement in urinating on deceased Taliban [...]

Press release – Libor needs trust, transparency and integrity, but regulation too, say MEPs – Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs European Union The benchmark London Interbank Offered Rate (Libor), needs to rebuild trust and integrity, but also needs to be regulated, said MEPs, Commissioners Barnier and Almunia and other financial experts, at Monday’s Economic [...]

Pakistan: Floods affect 700,000 in southwest, say officials External Global Bodies QUETTA, Pakistan, Sept 24, 2012 (AFP) – Flash floods triggered by record rains in southwestern Pakistan have affected around 700,000 people and destroyed hundreds of thousands of acres of crops, officials said Monday. At least 51 people have died across the impoverished province of [...]

Green alert for tropical cyclone EWINIAR-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0. External Global Bodies Tropical Cyclone EWINIAR-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability. Updated: this report is based on advisory number 3. Tropical [...]

Green alert for tropical cyclone JELAWAT-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0.1million. External Global Bodies Tropical Cyclone JELAWAT-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability. Updated: this report is based on advisory number 17. Tropical [...]

Green alert for tropical cyclone MIRIAM-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0. External Global Bodies Tropical Cyclone MIRIAM-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability. Updated: this report is based on advisory number 11. Tropical [...]

Guard Enlisted Leader Stresses Support Available United States Department of Defense Guard Enlisted Leader Stresses Support Available By Claudette RouloAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – National Guardsmen should know that they are never alone, even when they are away from their units, the National Guard Bureau’s senior enlisted leader said in a [...]

Photo Gallery: Behind the Scenes in August 2012 United States White House blog The White House Photo Office just released the latest set of behind the scenes photos, including images from the first-ever Kids’ State Dinner, President Obama visiting Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas to thank the troops, and the First Lady speaking with community leaders [...]

UN online platform allows countries to share post-conflict experiences and knowledge United Nations 24 September 2012 The United Nations has launched an online platform that will allow countries to share their post-conflict transition experiences, and learn from policies and peacebuilding strategies put in place by nations who have undergone similar changes. “Peacebuilding [...]

UN envoy condemns deadly attack on Iraqi primary school United Nations 24 September 2012 The top United Nations envoy in Iraq has strongly condemned the bombing of a primary school in the western province of Anbar today in which several children were reportedly killed. The attack comes two days into the new [...]

PRESS RELEASE ACPCultures+: Results of the first Call for Proposals External Global Bodies The ACP-EU support programme for the culture sector of the ACP states, ACPCultures+, is financing 20 projects for a total of €8,3 million. Brussels 24 September 2012/ ACPCultures+: The Secretariat of the ACP Group of States is pleased to announce the results [...]

At UN summit, world leaders highlight key role of rule of law in preventing war United Nations 24 September 2012 World leaders today called on all states to recommit to the rule of law as a fundamental factor in preventing war at a United Nations summit that stressed the universality of humanitarian law and the [...]

Commonwealth youth call for greater inclusion Commonwealth Secretariat We all win if the door is open for young people to contribute seriously and meaningfully in decision-making. Katherine Ellis, Commonwealth Director of Youth Affairs Young leaders from the Commonwealth Pacific have ended a six-day conference in Honiara, Solomon Islands, with a call for greater inclusion in [...]

Allen: Surge Bought Time for Afghan Forces to Grow, Mature United States Department of Defense Allen: Surge Bought Time for Afghan Forces to Grow, Mature By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – The goal of the just-completed U.S. troop surge in Afghanistan was not to defeat the Taliban, but to provide [...]

Navy Announces Research Vessel to be Named in Honor of Neil Armstrong United States Department of Defense             Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced today that the first Armstrong-class Auxiliary General Oceanographic Research (AGOR) ship will be named Neil Armstrong.              Mabus named the future R/V Neil Armstrong (AGOR 27) to honor [...]

UNDP Administrator calls for more focus on rule of law United Nations 24 September 2012 New York — UN Development Programme (UNDP) Administrator Helen Clark today urged UN Member States to focus on strengthening rule of law, which she described as critical to sustained development and stable, accountable government. “The rule of law enables citizens [...]

Combined Force Kills 2 Insurgents, Seizes Heroin United States Department of Defense Combined Force Kills 2 Insurgents, Seizes Heroin Compiled from International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Releases WASHINGTON, Sept. 24, 2012 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed two insurgents and seized several pounds of heroin during an operation in search of [...]

Helen Clark: 67th Session of the UN General Assembly 2012 United Nations 24 September 2012 Speech for Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator67th Session of the UN General Assembly 2012High Level Meeting on Rule of LawMonday 24th September, New York 9:30 a.m. CHECK AGAINST DELIVERY The rule of law underpins achieving the mission of the United Nations: [...]

WHO’s work in the Western Pacific Region under review External Global Bodies HANOI, 24 September 2012 – The World Health Organization (WHO) in the Western Pacific Region has decisively advanced its public health and reform agenda even as it has tackled ongoing health crises and prepared for future ones. Addressing the Regional Committee for the [...]

Face of Defense: Soldier Overcomes Injuries to Continue Serving United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Soldier Overcomes Injuries to Continue Serving By Army Spc. Alisha Gredzlik115th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment LOGAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan, Sept. 24, 2012 – For Army Sgt. Matthew Maddox, 9/11 brings memories of his fifth-grade music class, where he first [...]

Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event — Princeton, New Jersey United States White House Statements The White House Office of the First Lady For Immediate Release September 23, 2012 Private ResidencePrinceton, New Jersey 2:20 P.M. EDT MRS. OBAMA:  Wow, this is wonderful.  My gosh.  I see so many faces.  See, this is really [...]

UN Broadband Commission for Digital Development releases first global broadband report United Nations Broadband deployment accelerating worldwide, but prices still need to come down The Broadband Commission for Digital Development has released its first-ever country-by-country snapshot of the state of broadband deployment worldwide. The State of Broadband 2012: Achieving Digital Inclusion for All report evaluates [...]

EESC: protect posted workers without penalising companies European Union The European Economic and Social Committee welcomes the Commission’s proposal for an enforcement directive on the posting of workers. The message is clear: protect posted workers without neglecting the needs of businesses. Better cooperation Following the Commission proposal of last March on the enforcement directive on [...]

In Thailand, birth registration gives refugee babies a good start in life United Nations News Stories, 24 September 2012 © UNHCR/V.Tan Caption: A newborn gets his photo taken as part of birth registration procedures in A newborn gets his photo taken as part of birth registration procedures in Thailand’s Tham Hin camp. THAM HIN CAMP, [...]

2012 EMCDDA scientific paper award showcases innovative research in drugs field European Union The three winners of the 2012 EMCDDA scientific paper award will come under the spotlight in Lisbon this week at the annual award ceremony hosted by the EU agency (1). This year the results reflect the female face of science, with all [...]

Suriname gears up to host Joint ACP-EU Parliament meeting External Global Bodies Brussels, 24 September 2012/ ACP: The vibrant Caribbean locale of Paramaribo, Suriname will host the 24th session of the ACP-EU Joint Parliamentary Assembly, an event that will gather more than 200 participants from Africa, the Caribbean, Pacific and Europe to discuss key issues [...]

Brussels Development Briefing on climate change and agriculture External Global Bodies Brussels, 24 September 2012/ CTA/ ACP: An development seminar this week in Brussels will focus on the effects of climate change on the livelihood of farmers in African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) countries, and ‘climate smart’ practices that could reduce agricultural contributions to harmful [...]

ACP politicians talk trade, EU aid agenda in Brussels External Global Bodies Brussels, 22 September 2012/ ACP: Members of Parliament from Africa, the Caribbean and the Pacific met in Brussels this week to discuss issues pertinent to their countries and prepare for the upcoming Joint ACP-EU Parliamentary Assembly to be held in Paramaribo, Suriname in [...]

Economy: OECD’s Gurría urges Italy to maintain reform momentum OECD   24/09/2012- Italy has made a tremendous effort to speed up long-overdue economic reforms but it is now essential to maintain the momentum,  OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurría said today. “These reforms have been courageous, ambitious and wide-ranging, ” Mr Gurría said at a joint OECD-Italian [...]

Local EU statement on aborted ILO mission to Fiji British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts) “The European Union has noted some positive developments since 2011, notably the launch of a political process that would see a new constitution by 2013 and new parliamentary elections by 2014, and looks forward to the government lifting remaining restrictions on human rights [...]

UN Chief discusses situation in Syria and Middle East with Iranian leader United Nations 23 September 2012 Developments in Syria and the Middle East were among the topics discussed today in a meeting between Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. During the talks, which took place on the margins of the recently [...]

Me’a ‘Eiki Palemia: Ouau Kamata Polokalama Tokangaekina Kua Pacific Islands Governments 21 Sepitema 2012 Ko e Me’a ‘a e ‘Eiki Palemia ‘o Tonga, Lord Tu’ivakano ‘i he Ouau e kamata ‘o e Polokalama ki hono tokangaekina ‘o e kau toulekeleka ‘o e fonua. Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Fakatapu ki he Hau [...]

Minister for Defence Stephen Smith – Minister for Defence to visit Japan Australian Government News – Australian Entities I leave Australia this morning to visit Japan for talks with my counterpart, Defence Minister Satoshi Morimoto. This will be my first visit to Japan as Minister for Defence and my seventh visit as an Australian Government [...]

Ban urges international community to bolster support for Palestinian Authority United Nations 23 September 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today urged the international community to strengthen its support for the Palestinian Authority, stressing that failure to do so could have a destabilizing effect in the Middle East. The vision of a two-State solution and the [...]

Remarks by the First Lady at the Congressional Black Caucus Gala United States White House Statements The White House Office of the First Lady For Immediate Release September 23, 2012 Washington Convention Center Washington, D.C  7:33 P.M. EDT      MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you so much.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  It is truly a pleasure and an [...]

Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event — Henry Maier Festival Park United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 23, 2012 Henry Maier Festival Park Milwaukee, Wisconsin  5:16 P.M. CDT       THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Wisconsin!  (Applause.)  Oh, you guys sound like you’re fired up [...]

Helen Clark: Broadband Commission for Digital Development United Nations 23 September 2012 Remarks UNDP Administrator Helen ClarkBroadband Commission for Digital DevelopmentSession 3: B more Informed:International Policy Frameworks for an Enabling Environment 23 September 2012, 9:45am New York, Yale Club It is a pleasure to be participating in this meeting of the Broadband Commission for Digital [...]

USARPAC Contingency Command Post Soldiers deploy to Tonga on Readiness Exercise Pacific Islands Governments 22 September 2012 On September 22, the US Army Pacific Contingency Command Post (CCP) and elements of the 311th Signal Command and 25th Infantry Division arrived at Fua’amotu International Airport from Fort Shafter in Hawaii, in support of Operation Coral Reed, [...]

Speech Benoît Cœuré: Completing Europe’s Economic and Monetary Union European Union Speech by Benoît Cœuré, Member of the Executive Board of the ECBat the Palestinian Public Finance InstituteRamallah, 23 September 2012 Mr Governor, Mr Consul General, Mr Vice President of the Board of the Palestinian Institute for Fiscal Policy, Deputy Ministers, Heads of Public Administration, [...]

Lt Fonohema completed advanced maritme engineering training Pacific Islands Governments 14 September 2012 Lieutenant George Heiss Fonohema was awarded with a certificate in Advance Diploma in Maritime Engineering. This course was done under the scholarship funded by the Australian Defense Co-operation and this scholarship is intended only for Engineering officers . The normal duration of [...]

Climate Update – Rainfall Drought Outlook 10-12/2012 Pacific Islands Governments 20 September 2012 The latest Climate Update for Tonga from the Tonga Metrological Service, issued on 14 September 2012. Climate Update for Tonga August 2012 Climate Summary Rainfall Outlook and Drought Watch October – December 2012 A DROUGHT WARNING REMAINS FOR HA’APAI, VAVA’U AND NIUATOPUTAPU [...]

NOTIFICATION: LPG Retailers and Wholesalers prices Pacific Islands Governments 0 September 2012 A full template of the Pice summary for the Liquid Petroleum Gas and Petroleum oil prices for September-October 2012 is now available. In exercise of the powers conferred by section 5 of the Price and Wage Control Act 1988, the Competent Authority hereby [...]

New LPG prices for September 2012 Pacific Islands Governments 18 September 2012  The Competent Authority Committee has approved the new LPG prices for September 2012 to be effective as from Tuesday 18th September 2012 and therefore wish to notify the public accordingly. There is significant decrease in LPG Price for Tongatapu and Vava’u for September [...]

UNESCO Director-General alarmed by upsurge in killing of journalists in Somalia United Nations  “I am horrified by the sudden upsurge of violence targeting the media in Somalia,” the Director-General said. “I join the Somali Government in roundly condemning these murders, which are an outrage against the whole nation. They are also an extreme violation of [...]

UNESCO Director-General alarmed by upsurge in killing of journalists in Somalia United Nations  “I am horrified by the sudden upsurge of violence targeting the media in Somalia,” the Director-General said. “I join the Somali Government in roundly condemning these murders, which are an outrage against the whole nation. They are also an extreme violation of [...]

New petroleum prices for September-October 2012 Pacific Islands Governments 18 September 2012 The Competent Authority has approved the new petroleum prices for September-October 2012 to be effective from Tuesday 18 September 2012 and therefore wish to notify the public accordingly Retail price for all products for September-October 2012 have significantly increased compared to the price [...]

UN-Arab League envoy briefs Ban on visit to Syria and Middle East region United Nations 22 September 2012 The Joint Special Representative of the United Nations and the League of Arab States on the Syrian crisis, Lakhdar Brahimi, today met with Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in New York, to brief him on his recent trip [...]

Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event — Milwaukee Theater United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 22, 2012 REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT AT A CAMPAIGN EVENT Milwaukee Theater Milwaukee, Wisconsin 3:21 P.M. CDT THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody!  (Applause.)  Thank you so much.  Thank [...]

Somalia: UN official &#39outraged&#39 by killing of member of parliament United Nations 22 September 2012 A United Nations official today strongly condemned the killing of Mustafa Haji Maalim, a member of Somalia’s new parliament, and called for an independent investigation on the crime and for the perpetrators to be brought to justice. I am [...]

Message from the President to Commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 22, 2012 On September 22, 1862, President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, boldly declaring that on New Year’s Day, 1863, all people [...]

Auckland War Memorial Museum United States Department of Defense Thank you, Mr. Minister. To all of the distinguished leaders that are here, those who are involved with the museum, the honorees, their families, ladies and gentlemen, it is for me a very profound honor to be able to come to the Auckland War [...]

Watch First Lady Michelle Obama at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Dinner United States White House blog Tonight, First Lady Michelle Obama will deliver the keynote address at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Phoenix Awards Dinner. The Phoenix Dinner is the closing event for the CBC Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference, and will honor four individuals [...]

Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event — Phoenix, Maryland United States White House Statements The White House Office of the First Lady For Immediate Release September 22, 2012 Private Residence Phoenix, Maryland 8:21 P.M. EDT      MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you all.  Thank you so much.  (Applause.)  All right, I get embarrassed.  You’re [...]

Remarks by the First Lady at a Campaign Event – Morgan State University United States White House Statements The White House Office of the First Lady For Immediate Release September 22, 2012 REMARKS BY THE FIRST LADY AT A CAMPAIGN EVENT  Morgan State University Baltimore, Maryland 5:56 P.M. EDT MRS. OBAMA:  Wow.  Well, thank you [...]

Me’a ‘a Pilinisi Tungi ‘i he fakamanatu ‘o e ‘Aho Fakamamani Lahi ‘o e Melino Pacific Islands Governments 21 Sepitema 2012  Ko e Me’a ‘a e Tama ko Pilinisi Tungi ‘i hono fakamanatu fakamamani lahi ‘o e ‘Aho ‘o e Melino ‘i he ‘a ho 21 Septema 2012. Tapu mo Kingi Tupou VI, Ko e [...]

Government of the People’s Republic of China donates for peace week Pacific Islands Governments 19 September 2012 Yesterday, Tuesday, 18 September, 2012, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Kingdom of Tonga, represented by Third Secretary, Mr. SUN Xiaofei, donated the sum of TOP1,000 to Tonga’s National Committee for the Strengthening of [...]

Weekly Address: Congress Must Act to Create Jobs and Grow the Economy United States White House blog JUMP TO: Unless expressly stated otherwise, the findings, interpretations and conclusions expressed in this media release item do not necessarily represent the views of 36th Parallel Assessments.

Somalia: Security Council strongly condemns bombings in Mogadishu United Nations 21 September 2012 The Security Council has strongly condemned yesterday’s bombings in Mogadishu, adding that it is “deplorable” that ordinary Somalis are being targeted after the important gains made in recent weeks in completing the country’s transition. Suicide bombers set off at [...]

Remarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Carter, Vice Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Winnefeld and former Sen. Hagel at the Department of Defense’s National POW/MIA Recognition Day Ceremony United States Department of Defense Remarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Carter, Vice Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Adm. Winnefeld and former Sen. Hagel at the [...]

Weekly Wrap Up: The Dignity and Freedom That Every Person Deserves United States White House blog Lea ProhovSeptember 21, 2012 05:00 PM EDT Here’s a quick glimpse at what happened this week on WhiteHouse.gov: Team USA Behind the Scenes: Last week, the President and the First Lady welcomed the 2012 U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams [...]

Photo Gallery: Space Shuttle Endeavour Takes Its Final Flight United States White House blog Prev Next Space shuttle Endeavour is moved into the Shuttle Mate-Demate Device at Kennedy Space Center (Photo credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls) 1 of 7 Endeavour is seen atop NASA’s Shuttle Carrier Aircraft at Kennedy Space Center, Sept. 18, 2012. (Photo Credit: NASA/Bill [...]

Ban, Security Council call on Sudan and South Sudan to resolve outstanding issues United Nations 21 September 2012 United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the Security Council today welcomed the resumed negotiations between Sudan and South Sudan and urged them to resolve all remaining issues. Sudan’s President, Omar al-Bashir, and his counterpart [...]

Remarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Carter at the Politico Pro Defense Forum, Washington, DC United States Department of Defense Remarks by Deputy Secretary of Defense Carter at the Politico Pro Defense Forum, Washington, DC             PHIL EWING, POLITICO REPORTER:  Thank you so much to Dr. Ash Carter, deputy secretary of defense, for joining [...]

Photo Gallery: Olympic Visitors at the White House Through the Years United States White House blog Susan K. DoniusSeptember 21, 2012 03:00 PM EDT   Last week, as President and Mrs. Obama welcomed the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Teams to the White House, we were all reminded of the incredible talents and amazing journeys that [...]

Threat of terrorist IED’s Growing & Expanding, General Says United States Department of Defense Threat of terrorist IED’s Growing and Expanding, General Says By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – The threat posed by crude homemade bombs known as improvised explosive devices is growing and spreading across the globe, and will [...]

Readiness Council Adds Family Reps, Prioritizes Troop & Family Support United States Department of Defense Readiness Council Adds Family Reps, Prioritizes Troop & Family Support By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – The Defense Department’s Military Family Readiness Council convened at the Pentagon yesterday with more family representation and an agreement [...]

The Emancipation Proclamation is 150 Years Old United States White House blog Matt Compton September 21, 2012 02:04 PM EDT President Barack Obama views the Emancipation Proclamation with a small group of African American seniors, their grandchildren and some children from the Washington DC area, in the Oval Office. This copy of the Emancipation Proclamation, [...]

Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event — Woodbridge, VA United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 G. Richard Pfitzner StadiumWoodbridge, Virginia 12:14 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, Virginia!  (Applause.)  Well, it is great to be here in Pfitzner Stadium, home of [...]

Special Report: 2012 Secretary of Defense Freedom Awards United States Department of Defense Special Report: 2012 Secretary of Defense Freedom Awards American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – Fifteen companies and organizations received the 2012 Secretary of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Freedom Award, honoring private and public employers, large and [...]

Chimney Rock Becomes Our Newest National Monument United States White House blog Posted by Nancy Sutley on September 21, 2012 at 12:54 PM EDT Today, President Obama designated spectacular Chimney Rock in southwest Colorado as our nation’s newest national monument, an historic step honoring a place rich in beauty, history and Native American culture. With [...]

Pentagon Ceremony Remembers Sacrifices of POWs, MIA Families United States Department of Defense Pentagon Ceremony Remembers Sacrifices of POWs, MIA Families By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – At every federal building and post office today, a simple black and white flag few along with the national colors as a reminder [...]

Civilians Can Help Prevent Military Suicides, Official Says United States Department of Defense Civilians Can Help Prevent Military Suicides, Official Says By Lisa DanielAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – Defense Department civilians need to understand and recognize the warning signs for suicide just as their military counterparts are being trained to do, [...]

National POW/MIA Recognition Day: You Are Not Forgotten United States White House blog Darienne M. Page September 21, 2012 12:15 PM EDT A POW-MIA flag flies over the White House, Sept. 16, 2011. (Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson) Today, Friday, September 21, 2012 marks the commemoration of National POW/MIA Recognition Day, where the [...]

Remarks by the President to AARP Convention via Satellite United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 G. Richard Pfitzner StadiumWoodbridge, Virginia 11:18 A.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT: Thank you, Jane. (Applause.) Thank you, AARP. (Applause.) I want to thank Barry, and the entire AARP, [...]

President Obama Signs Proclamation Designating Chimney Rock as a National Monument United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 National Monument Will Honor Native American Culture, Generate Tourism and Economic Benefits for Local Economy WASHINGTON, DC – Today President Obama signed a proclamation establishing [...]

Readout of Vice President Biden’s Call with Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Vice President For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 Vice President Biden today called Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki to discuss a range of topics, including the recent high-level U.S. delegations to Iraq [...]

Ban hails Aung San Suu Kyi’s role in Myanmar’s reconciliation, reaffirms UN support United Nations 21 September 2012 Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today highlighted the role played by Nobel laureate and pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi in Myanmar’s reconciliation efforts, and re-affirmed the commitment of the United Nations to helping the Asian nation in [...]

Niger: Oxfam calls for scale-up of aid efforts as devastating floods affect half a million people External Global Bodies International aid agency Oxfam on Wednesday warned that devastating floods in Niger are affecting more than 500,000 people, most of whose basic needs are not being met. Floodwaters in Niamey and surrounding regions have unrelentingly risen [...]

Inspector Questions Accounting of Afghanistan Fuel United States Department of Defense Inspector Questions Accounting of Afghanistan Fuel By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – The U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction has urged commanders in Afghanistan not to grant the Afghan government increased responsibility [...]

Security Council voices grave concern at deteriorating situation in northern Mali United Nations 21 September 2012 The Security Council today reiterated its grave concern about the continuing deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in northern Mali, and urged rebel groups in the country to cut off all ties to terrorist elements, including Al-Qaida [...]

Face of Defense: JPAC Strives to Find Missing Troops United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: JPAC Strives to Find Missing Troops By Army Sgt. Ryan Hallock20th Public Affairs Detachment GUANTANAMO BAY, Cuba, Sept. 21, 2012 – Somewhere amid the land and sea battlefields of World War II are more than 73,000 Americans classified [...]

Photo Gallery: Secretary Clinton in Africa United States White House blog Department of StateSeptember 21, 2012 11:20 AM EDT Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton hugs a camper while participating in a Camp GLOW event for girls at the Lilongwe Girls Secondary School in Lilongwe, Malawi, Aug. 5, 2012. Camp GLOW (Girls Leading Our World) [...]

Celebrating the Next Generation of LGBT Leaders United States White House blog Posted by Gautam Raghavan on September 21, 2012 at 10:48 AM EDT On Wednesday, the Vice President and Dr. Biden hosted an “End of Summer BBQ” at the Vice President’s Residence with emerging young leaders of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) [...]

Presidential Proclamation — Establishment of the Chimney Rock National Monument United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 ESTABLISHMENT OF THE CHIMNEY ROCK NATIONAL MONUMENT BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION The Chimney Rock site in southwestern Colorado incorporates [...]

We Can’t Wait: Obama Administration Announces Two California Transportation Projects to Be Expedited United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 21, 2012 WASHINGTON, DC – Today, as part of his We Can’t Wait initiative, President Obama announced that two nationally and regionally significant surface transportation [...]

UNDP and the United Nations General Assembly – 2012 United Nations 21 September 2012 As world leaders convene in New York for the 67th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to tackle major global issues such as poverty and hunger, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will be involved in a series of [...]

Presidential Proclamation — National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2012 United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 20, 2012 NATIONAL POW/MIA RECOGNITION DAY, 2012 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION For more than two centuries, Americans have bravely served our Nation as [...]

Remarks by the President at a Campaign Event — Tampa, FL United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 20, 2012 Private ResidenceTampa, Florida 6:16 P.M. EDT THE PRESIDENT:  Hello, everybody!  (Applause.)  It is so good to see all of you, and I’m going to have [...]

Remarks by the President at Univision Town Hall with Jorge Ramos and Maria Elena Salinas United States White House Statements The White House Office of the Press Secretary For Immediate Release September 20, 2012 University of MiamiMiami, Florida 2:15 P.M. EDT Q Please welcome the President of the United States. (Applause.) THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Q Welcome. Thank [...]

Forces Arrest Taliban, Haqqani Leaders in Afghanistan United States Department of Defense Forces Arrest Taliban, Haqqani Leaders in Afghanistan From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 21, 2012 – Afghan and coalition security forces arrested a Taliban leader, as well as a Haqqani chief, during a security operation in [...]

Special Report: National Hispanic Heritrage Month United States Department of Defense Special Report: National Hispanic Heritrage Month American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – As the nation observes National Hispanic Heritage Month, an American Forces Press Service special report available at http://www.defense.gov/home/features/2012/0912_hispanic-heritage/ highlights the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the Defense Department’s mission. Unless [...]

Four sites added to Global Geoparks Network United Nations The Global Geoparks Network links geological heritage sites of international importance, rarity or beauty that are also used to promote sustainable development for local communities. The Network was created with UNESCO’s support in 2004 to encourage cooperation between geological heritage experts and practitioners. It also seeks [...]

Obama: Nation Must ‘Never Forget’ Missing Service Members United States Department of Defense Obama: Nation Must ‘Never Forget’ Missing Service Members American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – “As long as members of our Armed Forces remain unaccounted for, America will bring our fullest resources to bear in finding them and bringing them [...]

Four sites in China, Indonesia, Hungary and Spain added to Global Geoparks Network United Nations The Global Geoparks Network links geological heritage sites of international importance, rarity or beauty that are also used to promote sustainable development for local communities.             The Network was created with UNESCO’s support in 2004 to encourage cooperation [...]

Pension fund assets at record high but investment returns negative in 2011, says OECD OECD   21/09/2012 – Pension fund assets in OECD countries hit a record USD 20.1 trillion in 2011 but return on investment fell below zero, with an average negative return of -1.7%s, according to the OECD’s latest Pension Markets in Focus. [...]

New Transition Assistance Program Set for November Launch United States Department of Defense New Transition Assistance Program Set for November Launch By Gary W. SheftickArmy News Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – Parts of a new transition assistance program were tested this summer and the revamped TAP will be ready to support departing service members [...]

Companies Lauded for Top Support of Guard, Reserve Employees United States Department of Defense Companies Lauded for Top Support of Guard, Reserve Employees By Terri Moon CronkAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 21, 2012 – Fifteen companies and organizations from a port to a power company received the coveted Secretary of Defense Employer Support of [...]

First Commonwealth-Asia Alliance of Young Entrepreneurs Summit Commonwealth Secretariat CIIs Young Indians Invites Entrepreneurs from India and Asia to The First CAAYE Summit in Mumbai December 2012 CIIs Young Indians has begun the process of identifying the best young entrepreneurs from the Commonwealth-Asia nations to attend the flagship CAAYE Young Entrepreneur Summit scheduled on December [...]

Panetta Honors Past, Present New Zealand Troops United States Department of Defense Panetta Honors Past, Present New Zealand Troops By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Sept. 21, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta placed a wreath in memory of New Zealand’s fallen and pinned U.S. medals on five Kiwi Afghanistan veterans [...]

Panetta Eases Restrictions on New Zealand Ship Visits United States Department of Defense Panetta Eases Restrictions on New Zealand Ship Visits By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Sept. 21, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta announced here today that he has eased the restrictions on New Zealand navy ship visits to [...]

More than 10,000 Somalis flee coastal city of Kismayo, fearing fighting United Nations News Stories, 21 September 2012 © UNHCR/B.Bannon Some of the Somalis leaving Kismayo are using donkey carts to transport their belongings. NAIROBI, Kenya, September 21 (UNHCR) – The UN refugee agency said Friday it was closely following the situation around the Somali [...]

UNHCR concerned at detention of asylum-seekers, releases new guidelines United Nations News Stories, 21 September 2012 © UNHCR/J.Björgvinsson A mother and her children at a detention centre in Greece. UNHCR advocates for alternatives to detention, especially for vulnerable asylum-seekers such as mothers and children. GENEVA, September 21 (UNHCR) – The UN refugee agency on Friday [...]

Panetta Announces Completion of Afghanistan Surge Drawdown United States Department of Defense Panetta Announces Completion of Afghanistan Surge Drawdown By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Sept. 21, 2012 – The drawdown of U.S. surge forces in Afghanistan is complete as scheduled, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta announced here today during a news [...]

West Wing Week: 09/21/12 or "The Dignity and Freedom That Every Person Deserves" United States White House blog This week, the President, Vice President and Secretary of State attended the Transfer of Remains Ceremony for the four Americans killed in Libya, while the White House welcomed Olympians and Paralympians, WNBA champions the Minnesota Lynx, new [...]

British War Vets in London for one last Mission British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts) The men will spend three weeks in the United Kingdom visiting the new London Bomber Command memorial and the RAF  museum at Hendon. The men will visit the former RAF base at  Wickenby where the old Bomber Command Control Tower is [...]

Dempsey Discusses Importance of Embracing, Managing Military Change United States Department of Defense Dempsey Discusses Importance of Embracing, Managing Military Change By Jim GaramoneAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey thinks one of the most important questions military leaders need to answer is how to best adapt changes [...]

Statement from Secretary Panetta on Recovery of Surge Forces in Afghanistan United States Department of Defense IMMEDIATE RELEASE No. 766-12September 20, 2012 Statement from Secretary Panetta on Recovery of Surge Forces in Afghanistan             “This week, the ongoing effort in Afghanistan marked [...]

The Office of Protection & Advocacy Kicked-off their 2 day Seminar Today at the Tradewinds Hotel—“Promoting Self Advocacy & Leadership” Pacific Islands Governments The Office of Protection & Advocacy Kicked-off their 2 day Seminar Today at the Tradewinds Hotel—“Promoting Self Advocacy & Leadership” Details Friday, 21 September 2012 (Tafuna: [...]

Media Release: Joint investigation seizes more than 70kg of ice Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Friday, September 21 2012, 11:26 AM This is a joint media release between the AFP and Customs and Border Protection Three Sydney men have been charged in a joint operation conducted by the Australian Federal Police [...]

Officials Discuss Education Outreach for Hispanic Youth United States Department of Defense Officials Discuss Education Outreach for Hispanic Youth By Gerry J. GilmoreAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – The Defense Department’s director of Diversity Management joined other senior government officials to discuss federal efforts to encourage young people of Hispanic descent to [...]

Panetta Visits Chinese Navy Fleet, Tours Vessels United States Department of Defense Panetta Visits Chinese Navy Fleet, Tours Vessels By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service QINGDAO, China, Sept. 20, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta visited the headquarters of one of China’s three naval fleets on his final stop in China today before heading [...]

Marking One Year Since the Repeal of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell United States White House blog Posted by Valerie Jarrett on September 20, 2012 at 06:04 PM EDT Earlier today, I had the opportunity to meet with a small group of openly gay and lesbian servicemembers, together with several of their partners and spouses. We [...]

The Decision to Move Forward: Paralympian Lt. Snyder Meets with The First Lady United States White House blog Posted by Kori Schulman on September 20, 2012 at 05:54 PM EDT Brad Snyder’s story is a remarkable one. Just one year ago, Lieutenant Snyder was blinded by an IED while serving in Afghanistan. This summer, he [...]

Panetta Arrives in New Zealand, Final Stop on Asia-Pacific Tour United States Department of Defense Panetta Arrives in New Zealand, Final Stop on Asia-Pacific Tour By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service AUCKLAND, Sept. 20, 2012 – Defense Secretary Leon E Panetta arrived in Auckland, New Zealand, Friday morning local time, for the last leg of [...]

Press Releases: U.S.-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue United States Department Of State Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Wendy R. Sherman and Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mohamed Mijarul Quayes co-chaired the first U.S.-Bangladesh Partnership Dialogue in Washington, DC on September 19-20, 2012. The delegations held productive conversations on a wide range of bilateral and regional issues including [...]

Media Release: Man charged for involvement in people smuggling syndicate Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Friday, September 21 2012, 07:39 AM A 22-year-old man will appear before the Brisbane Magistrates Court today (21 September 2012) charged with people smuggling offences. The arrest follows a 12 month investigation by the AFP’s People Smuggling [...]

Afghan transition moving forward but facing numerous challenges – UN envoy United Nations 20 September 2012 Afghanistan is moving forward in the transition to greater ownership and responsibility for its affairs but faces a number of challenges, including generating a perception of greater security for ordinary citizens and addressing human development needs, the United [...]

Comptroller: Sequestration Would Devastate Defense Spending United States Department of Defense Comptroller: Sequestration Would Devastate Defense Spending By Cheryl PellerinAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – Sequestration will devastate every aspect of Defense Department spending, from fighting the war in Afghanistan and supporting troop health and morale to training, maintenance and modernization, and [...]

Press Releases: Remarks With Indonesian Foreign Minister Raden Mohammad Marty Muliana Natalegawa After Their Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Good afternoon, everyone. And it’s such a pleasure, as always, to welcome the Indonesian Foreign Minister, and I believe the largest delegation that has ever come from Indonesia, for the purpose of our [...]

East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks With Indonesian Foreign Minister Raden Mohammad Marty Muliana Natalegawa After Their Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Good afternoon, everyone. And it’s such a pleasure, as always, to welcome the Indonesian Foreign Minister, and I believe the largest delegation that has ever come from Indonesia, for the [...]

From the Archives: The End of Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell United States White House blog On this day in 2011, “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” was finally and formally repealed, allowing gay and lesbian service members to serve openly in our nation’s armed forces. In a statement marking the anniversary, President Obama said that repealing the [...]

East Asia and the Pacific: Maritime Territorial Disputes and Sovereignty Issues in Asia United States Department Of State Chairman Webb, Members of the Subcommittee, thank you for the opportunity to testify today on these critically important issues. Before I begin, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, Chairman Webb, for your leadership [...]

UNDP offers six-point plan to fast-track women in politics in Asia-Pacific United Nations 20 September 2012 Bangkok – It will take 50 years for gender balance to be achieved in Asia-Pacific national legislatures if the increase in women’s participation in parliaments remains at the current pace, says a UN Development Programme (UNDP) study released this [...]

UNDP offers six-point plan to fast-track women in politics in Asia-Pacific United Nations 20 September 2012 Bangkok – It will take 50 years for gender balance to be achieved in Asia-Pacific national legislatures if the increase in women’s participation in parliaments remains at the current pace, says a UN Development Programme (UNDP) study released this [...]

Carter: Sequestration Would Have Effect of ‘Hidden Tax’ United States Department of Defense Carter: Sequestration Would Have Effect of ‘Hidden Tax’ By Army Sgt. 1st Class Tyrone C. Marshall Jr.American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – Because it would lead to inefficiencies, the sequestration mechanism built into the Budget Control Act would amount [...]

Battaglia Cites Resilience as Key to Solving Suicide Issue United States Department of Defense Battaglia Cites Resilience as Key to Solving Suicide Issue By Claudette RouloAmerican Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – Resilience is the key to solving the military’s suicide problem, the senior enlisted advisor to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs [...]

Press Releases: Remarks at the Third Annual U.S.-Indonesian Joint Commission Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Hello, everyone, good morning. My goodness, we have quite a wonderful turnout, and we are so grateful to our friends and colleagues from Indonesia for being part of this ongoing and very important effort. Ambassador, very good [...]

East Asia and the Pacific: Remarks at the Third Annual U.S.-Indonesian Joint Commission Meeting United States Department Of State SECRETARY CLINTON: Hello, everyone, good morning. My goodness, we have quite a wonderful turnout, and we are so grateful to our friends and colleagues from Indonesia for being part of this ongoing and very important effort. [...]

Green alert for tropical cyclone EIGHTEEN-12. Population affected by Category 1 (120 km/h) wind speeds or higher is 0. External Global Bodies Tropical Cyclone EIGHTEEN-12 can have a low humanitarian impact based on the Maximum sustained wind speed and the affected population and their vulnerability. Tropical Cyclone Tropical Depression (maximum wind speed of 175 km/h) [...]

Ashley-Care: Gaining Peace of Mind by Getting Coverage Through a Parent’s Health Plan United States White House blog Dori SalcidoSeptember 20, 2012 11:00 AM EDT Ed. note: This is cross-posted from Healthcare.gov. Ashley Matthews, recent graduate of the University of Miami School of Law, considers herself very aware of what is going on the world. [...]

Press release – Ban shark finning on board vessels, says Fisheries Committee – Committee on Fisheries European Union EU member states should stop issuing special permits to remove shark fins on board vessels, said Fisheries Committee MEPs on Wednesday. In a report on the external dimension of the common fisheries policy, MEPs urged that global [...]

Face of Defense: Marine Lives Life Through Eye of Lens United States Department of Defense Face of Defense: Marine Lives Life Through Eye of Lens By Marine Corps Lance Col. Zachary ScanlonMarine Corps Air Station Yuma WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – For many, the decision to concentrate on a profession takes years. For Marine Corps [...]

Combined Force Kills Armed Insurgents in Balkh Province United States Department of Defense Combined Force Kills Armed Insurgents in Balkh Province From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release KABUL, Afghanistan, Sept. 20, 2012 – An Afghan and coalition security force killed two armed insurgents during an operation to arrest a senior Taliban [...]

VA Fills First Phase of Veteran Retraining Program United States Department of Defense VA Fills First Phase of Veteran Retraining Program From a Department of Veterans Affairs News Release WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – The Veterans Affairs Department has approved applications for all 45,000 slots available in fiscal 2012 under the Veterans Retraining Assistance Program [...]

President Obama Meets with Aung San Suu Kyi United States White House blog President Barack Obama meets with Burmese Opposition Leader Aung San Suu Kyi in the Oval Office, Sept. 19, 2012 (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza) Yesterday, President Obama met with Aung San Suu Kyi, Burmese Nobel Laureate and leader of the [...]

UNDP offers six-point plan to fast-track women in politics in Asia- Pacific United Nations 20 September 2012 Bangkok It will take 50 years for gender balance to be achieved in Asia-Pacific national legislatures if the increase in women’s participation in parliaments remains at the current pace, says a UN Development Programme (UNDP) study released this [...]

President Nominates Vollrath as Assistant Defense Secretary United States Department of Defense President Nominates Vollrath as Assistant Defense Secretary American Forces Press Service WASHINGTON, Sept. 20, 2012 – President Barack Obama has nominated Frederick E. Vollrath to be assistant secretary of defense for readiness and force management. Vollrath has been performing the position’s [...]

Top UNHCR official spotlights difficulties faced by LGBTI refugees United Nations News Stories, 20 September 2012 © UNHCR/Darri Gepilano Volker Turk, director of the UNHCR division of International Protection, spoke in Geneva on LGBTIs and protection. GENEVA, September 20 (UNHCR) – Lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgenders and intersex people who flee overseas to escape persecution in [...]

Progress Towards a Tsunami Early Warning System in the North-eastern Atlantic, the Mediterranean and connected seas United Nations Several scenarios of fictitious tsunamis off of the east and west coasts of the Mediterranean and North-eastern Atlantic will be triggered on 27 and 28 November 2012. The aim of this exercise, called NEAMWave12, is to evaluate [...]

UN expert welcomes release of prisoners of conscience in Myanmar United Nations 20 September 2012 A United Nations independent expert today welcomed the latest presidential amnesty releasing a number of prisoners of conscience in Myanmar, and called on authorities to continue “this systematic liberation” without conditions, stressing this is key for the country’s democratic [...]

Meet the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2014 mascot Commonwealth Secretariat Clyde is great fun and the perfect mascot to spread the Glasgow 2014 message across Scotland, the UK and the Commonwealth 2012 Olympic medallist Michael Jamieson The mascot for the Commonwealth Games Glasgow 2014 – Clyde – was unveiled today in Glasgow, Scotland, on the banks [...]

PLA Engineering Academy of Armored Forces United States Department of Defense Thank you very much, General, for that kind introduction. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the entire leadership of the Engineering Academy of the PLA Armored Forces for the invitation to be able to be with you today.  This [...]

Campaign to enrol school-age Syrian refugees gains momentum United Nations News Stories, 20 September 2012 © UNHCR/D.Sleiman Syrian refugee mothers and children at a school registration centre in Baalbek, Lebanon. BAALBEK, Lebanon, September 20 (UNHCR) – Fourteen school registration centres across Lebanon are teeming with Syrian refugee mothers and children as the start of the [...]

Joint partnership means 10,000 police will receive HIV stigma prevention education United Nations 20 September 2012 The police officers being trained will eventually teach as many as 10,000 junior police students per year on basic HIV prevention and the principle of AIDS rights. (Photo: UNDP Thailand) Bangkok – As many as 10,000 junior Thai police [...]

Director-General calls for investigation into killing of Philippine radio broadcaster Eddie Jesus Apostol United Nations “I condemn the murder of Eddie Jesus Apostol,” the Director-General said. “It is important that the authorities conduct a serious investigation into this killing and ensure that the perpetrators are punished for their crime.”              Eddie Jesus Apostol leased airtime [...]

Director-General condemns killing of Cambodian journalist Hang Serei Oudom United Nations “I am deeply concerned by the killing of Hang Serei Oudom,” the Director-General said. “This is the first murder of a journalist in Cambodia in a long time and I trust that the Cambodian authorities will do all in their power to bring those [...]

Press release – MEPs call for sanctions against Russian officials involved in the Magnitsky case – Committee on Foreign Affairs European Union The foreign affairs committee called on Thursday for an EU-wide visa ban and assets freeze against Russian officials responsible for the death of lawyer Sergei Magnitsky, the subsequent judicial cover-up and the harassment [...]

News conference to report on Indonesia’s economy and regulatory system OECD   Thursday 27 September, Jakarta   The OECD’s Economic Survey: Indonesia and the first OECD Review of Regulatory Reform for Indonesia commend the country’s vibrant economy and the government’s efforts to improve the regulatory system. The reports also make policy recommendations to ensure that [...]

Panetta Calls Beijing Meetings ‘Substantive, Productive’ United States Department of Defense Panetta Calls Beijing Meetings ‘Substantive, Productive’ By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service BEIJING, Sept. 20, 2012 – Visiting China at what he called a “very important moment” for the U.S.-China relationship, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said yesterday his meetings with key Chinese leaders [...]

Panetta Takes Questions From Chinese Cadets United States Department of Defense Panetta Takes Questions From Chinese Cadets By Karen ParrishAmerican Forces Press Service BEIJING, Sept. 20, 2012 – Two very different military traditions briefly converged here yesterday when Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta, following a speech at the People’s Liberation Army’s Armored Forces Engineering Academy, [...]

UN translators in New York raise funds for Syrian refugees United Nations News Stories, 20 September 2012 © UNHCR Members of the UN Arabic Translation Service who helped raise funds for Syrian refugees pose for a photograph with UNHCR staff in New York. NEW YORK, United States, September 19 (UNHCR) – Alarmed by the growing [...]

UK support for the Constitution Commission British Foreign Office (Pacific Posts) The United Kingdom today provided F$145,330.00 to the Constitutional Commission in Fiji to assist the Commission in implementing more public consultations in the Lau Group, Yasawa, Ba, Ra, Nadroga, Rotuma, Rewa, Namosi, Tailevu and Lomaiviti provinces as well as provide logistical support to the [...]

New Updates on approved Samoa Biobag Serial Numbers Pacific Islands Governments New Updates on approved Samoa Biobag Serial Numbers Details Wednesday, 19 September 2012 (PAGO PAGO: Wednesday, September 19, 2012) – AS-EPA wishes to inform all businesses establishments using the plastic bag from Samoa with serial number “CPMNREATC/0610001” to [...]

Media Release: Man charged with identity fraud offences Australian Government News – Australian Entities Release Date: Thursday, September 20 2012, 10:36 AM A 45-year-old Miami man will appear before Southport Magistrates Court today charged with conspiring to defraud the Commonwealth, following a two year investigation by the Australian Federal Police (AFP) with assistance from Queensland [...]