Commonwealth unveils new project incubator for ocean-climate solutions Initial funding of £400,000 committed for pilot projects

A new initiative launched today in the margins of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, will support Commonwealth ocean states in cultivating and scaling-up projects that protect the marine environment while also tackling climate change. With 47 out of 54 Commonwealth countries bordering the sea - including 25 small island developing states or ‘large ocean states’ - the Commonwealth Blue Charter Project Incubator will assist governments in developing pilot projects that accelerate their transition to sustainable and inclusive maritime development and conservation, while mitigating and adapting to climate change. The initiative is supported by an initial contribution from the Commonwealth Fund for Technical Cooperation, with matching commitments from various partners, to the tune of approximately GBP 400,000 in total, with more expected in the coming year. Focusing on proof-of-concept and small-scale projects in particular, the incubator will be managed by the Commonwealth Secretariat, in close cooperation with member countries and Commonwealth Blue Charter Action Groups. The project aims to address the dearth of financial support for ocean action worldwide, with Sustainable Development Goal 14 (‘Life Under Water’) receiving the least funding globally among all the SDGs. Small island and coastal states are particularly affected, with even fewer funding options for typically marginalised groups, including women, youth, indigenous peoples and local communities. Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Dr Arjoon Suddhoo, said: “Commonwealth member nations are stewards of more than one third of the global ocean within national jurisdictions. Our island states have many times more ocean area than land… The pandemic over the past year has underlined how mutually reliant we all are upon one another. We now know that decisive joined-up, cooperative, multilateral actions are the only way to tackle global ocean challenges. There is no doubt that we need to redouble our efforts.” Head of Oceans and Natural Resources at the Commonwealth Secretariat, Dr Nicholas Hardman-Mountford added: “The ocean sustains the lives and livelihoods of billions on this planet but its core life-support functions are critically threatened by climate change, pollution and unsustainable exploitation.  Yet, the ocean continues to be eclipsed in climate financing discussions. SDG14 is the least funded of any of the sustainable development goals. For ocean investments to be sustainable Governments need to be supported to lead on the projects they know are most needed in their context. The Blue Charter Project Incubator will uniquely enable Governments to develop a pipeline of bankable projects to mobilise ocean financing where it is needed the most.” Ocean Governance Adviser and Blue Charter programme lead, Dr Jeff Ardron noted: “There are many very good ocean incubators out there already, but none address the needs of governments. The Blue Charter Project Incubator fills that critical gap.” All Commonwealth member countries will have access to the project incubator. Among the many services it offers, the incubator will provide mentoring and technical support to governments on the development of ocean-related pilot projects that build social, ecological and climate resilience, while also facilitating project partnerships with non-governmental entities. It will review proposals, leverage seed funding for projects and encourage planning for sustainability and scaling up initiatives, including at the regional level. Support will also be provided through unique customised tools, including machine-learning. Project ideas that ‘dare to be different’, offering innovative and cooperative solutions, while also engaging women, youth, indigenous peoples and local communities, will receive particular attention. Commonwealth Blue Charter progress This new initiative continues the significant track record of practical solutions delivered by the Commonwealth Secretariat under the Commonwealth Blue Charter – an agreement by all 54 countries made in 2018 to work collaboratively to address global ocean challenges. It is implemented by 10 Action Groups, led by 16 champion countries. Over the past four years, more than 450 officials from 40 countries have been trained in ten topic areas. Members have benefitted from 13 online learning courses and 15 resource ‘toolkits’ on various themes, such as mangrove restoration and ‘blue carbon’. In addition, more than sixty case studies illustrating good and best practices have been published by the Secretariat and shared to Commonwealth member states. An online database of more than 200 online training opportunities, and another database of more than 100 marine funding opportunities have been launched. The long-term goal of the Commonwealth Blue Charter is to build on its track record of supporting countries through capacity-building, towards small-scale project development and eventually mainstream impact, with enhanced financial support via a potential dedicated ‘action fund’. Find out more about the progress of the Commonwealth Blue Charter in the report ‘An Ocean of Opportunity’ Notes to Editors The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 54 independent and equal sovereign states. Our combined population is 2.5 billion, of which more than 60 per cent is aged 29 or under. The Commonwealth spans the globe and includes both advanced economies and developing countries. Thirty-two of our members are small states, many of which are island nations. The Commonwealth Secretariat supports member countries to build democratic and inclusive institutions, strengthen governance and promote justice and human rights. Our work helps to grow economies and boost trade, deliver national resilience, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt and inequality. Member countries are supported by a network of more than 80 intergovernmental, civil society, cultural and professional organisations.

 

Gabon and Togo join the Commonwealth 25 June 2022 ​

The Commonwealth has admitted Gabon and Togo as its 55th and 56th members respectively. Both countries are former French colonies.   Leaders accepted applications by the two west African countries at the closing session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Kigali, Rwanda. It follows formal expressions of interest by Gabon and Togo and consultation with member countries.   Rwanda was the last country to join the Commonwealth, in 2009.   Welcoming the announcement, Commonwealth Secretary-General The Rt Hon Patricia Scotland, QC, said:   “The Commonwealth, which began as eight nations in 1949, is growing to 56. Our continued growth, beyond the scope of our history, reflects the advantages of Commonwealth membership and the strength of our association. I am thrilled to see these vibrant countries join the Commonwealth family and dedicate themselves to the values and aspiration of our Charter.”   Gabon is a sparsely populated country of two million people, bordering Cameroon - also a member of the Commonwealth - and Equatorial Guinea, and the Republic of Congo.   Togo is bordered by Ghana – a Commonwealth member - and Benin and Burkina Faso. It has a population of approximately 7.8 million people.   Neither country has an historic association with the Commonwealth, with both gaining independence from France in the 1960’s.   The eligibility criteria for Commonwealth membership, amongst other things, state that an applicant country should demonstrate commitment to democracy and democratic processes, including free and fair elections and representative legislatures; the rule of law and independence of the judiciary; good governance, including a well-trained public service and transparent public accounts; and protection of human rights, freedom of expression, and equality of opportunity.   Notes to Editors The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of 54 independent and equal sovereign states. Our combined population is 2.5 billion, of which more than 60 per cent is aged 29 or under. The Commonwealth spans the globe and includes both advanced economies and developing countries. Thirty-two of our members are small states, many of which are island nations. The Commonwealth Secretariat supports member countries to build democratic and inclusive institutions, strengthen governance and promote justice and human rights. Our work helps to grow economies and boost trade, deliver national resilience, empower young people, and address threats such as climate change, debt and inequality. Member countries are supported by a network of more than 80 intergovernmental, civil society, cultural and professional organisations. Media Contact CHOGM 2022 Communications and Media Office of the Government Spokesperson Tel: +250 7891 15904 Email: media@chogm2022.rw CHOGM Communications Team Commonwealth Secretariat Tel: + 44 7894 593508 Email: media@commonwealth.int

 argeting Russia’s Global Malign Influence Operations and Election Interference Activities

07/29/2022 03:03 PM EDT

Antony J. Blinken, Secretary of State

The Russian Federation has demonstrated determination in its attempts to undermine the democratic processes and institutions essential to the functioning of our democracy and that of other countries.  It is crucial for our democracy, and democracies around the globe, to hold free and fair elections without malign outside interference.

In response, the United States is sanctioning two individuals and four entities that support the Kremlin’s global malign influence operations and election interference activities.  This action is separate and distinct from the broad range of measures the United States and its allies and partners continue to impose on Russia’s economy and financial system in response to its unlawful invasion of Ukraine, which constitutes another clear example of Russia’s disregard for the sovereignty and political independence of other states.

The sanctioned individuals and entities played various roles in Russia’s attempts to manipulate the United States and our allies and partners, including Ukraine.  This action follows a series of designations aimed to expose and disrupt Russia’s persistent election interference and destabilization efforts against Ukraine.  The United States will continue to act to deter and disrupt these efforts to safeguard our democracy, as well as help protect the democracies of our allies and partners.

For more information on today’s actions, please see the Department of the Treasury’s press release .

 

Improving access to care - Cardiac Rehab

Care City  are working with NELCCG and BHRUT to understand some of the challenges around uptake of cardiac rehabilitation in BHR. They are keen to speak to as many people as possible who have experienced a cardiac event, from as many different backgrounds and perspectives as possible, regardless of what stage they have reached in their cardiac rehabilitation journey.

Interviews start week commencing 4th July, with an online focus group/workshop to follow at a later date. Care City would also speak to people 1:1.

To get involved

WhatsApp/SMS/Call:  Mary – France Jardiel on 07865213499

Alternatively, email:    Maryfrance.jardiel@carecity.org

*Participants will receive £50 voucher*

 

The latest from the Barking & Dagenham Citizens' Alliance Network (CAN) Hi Bringing you the latest community information from the Citizens' Alliance Network. What's going on in my community? If you've not yet had chance to check out the neighbourhood pages on the CAN online platform, find your area below.  Barking Town - Becontree - Becontree Heath to Rush Green - Chadwell Heath and Marks Gate - Dagenham Dock and Beam Park - Dagenham East, the Village and beyond - Thames and Riverside On these pages, you can find out where money is being spent, ways to have your say on things like development and parks, and events and activities happening nearby.    Chadwell Heath and Marks Gate Don't miss out on all the FREE FUN Events that are taking place in Marks gate this July and August! There is something for everyone to take part in.  To find out more check out Marks Gate events Managing high blood pressure  In 2020/21 more than 107,000 people were diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) in Barking & Dagenham, Havering and Redbridge, with many more people at risk of developing the condition in the future.  NHS North East London wants to hear your views on how it can help stop people living in these communities from getting high blood pressure and improving treatment for those who already have it.  This online survey is for both those who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and those who haven't.   Please complete the survey by midnight on Friday 29 July 2022. The survey should take no more than 10 minutes to complete.  If you have any questions please email bhr.communications@nhs.net.

 

The latest from the Barking & Dagenham Citizens' Alliance Network (CAN) Hi Bringing you the latest community information from the Citizens' Alliance Network. What's going on in my community? If you've not yet had chance to check out the neighbourhood pages on the CAN online platform, find your area below.  Barking Town - Becontree - Becontree Heath to Rush Green - Chadwell Heath and Marks Gate - Dagenham Dock and Beam Park - Dagenham East, the Village and beyond - Thames and Riverside On these pages, you can find out where money is being spent, ways to have your say on things like development and parks, and events and activities happening nearby.    Chadwell Heath and Marks Gate Don't miss out on all the FREE FUN Events that are taking place in Marks gate this July and August! There is something for everyone to take part in.  To find out more check out Marks Gate events

 oint Statement from the U.S.-Czech Republic Strategic Dialogue

03/30/2022 10:20 AM EDT

Office of the Spokesperson

Following is the text of a joint statement by the Governments of the United States of America and of the Czech Republic.

Begin Text:

The Governments of the Czech Republic and the United States renewed the U.S.-Czech Republic Strategic Dialogue in Prague on March 30, 2022, with delegations led by Czech Deputy Foreign Minister Martin Povejsil and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried.  In conjunction with the Strategic Dialogue, Assistant Secretary Donfried also met with Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky.

The United States and the Czech Republic have a historic friendship based on common democratic values and an appreciation of our shared responsibility to uphold the rules-based international order in cooperation with our Allies and partners.  This Strategic Dialogue comes at a critical time.  It demonstrates the strength and importance of the bilateral relationship as the United States and the Czech Republic focus on the security challenges on the Eastern Flank of NATO due to the Russian Federation’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.  We underline our commitment to protect and defend every inch of NATO territory.  The Czech Republic has renewed its commitment to increase its defense spending to two percent of GDP.  A faster pace of modernization of the Czech armed forces is a priority, gaining new capabilities in cooperation with the United States and other Allies.

We stand strong and united in support of the people of Ukraine and the Ukrainian government against Russia’s unprovoked war, which is causing immense human suffering and destruction of civilian infrastructure.  We call on Russia to cease its military offensive and completely withdraw its armed forces from the territories of Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia and to respect their sovereignty and internationally recognized borders.  Beijing’s position on Russia’s war also remains under our close scrutiny.  The United States and the Czech Republic agree that the international community must deepen Russia’s political and economic isolation and apply tougher sanctions against enablers of Russia’s aggression.  The discussion of Ukraine’s post-war recovery must begin now.  We must endeavor to provide Ukraine the political and practical assistance to support and realize its sovereign choice of full integration with Europe and the world’s democracies.

The United States and the Czech Republic emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Czech partnership in addressing common threats and challenges, including in the area of cyber security and resilience to hybrid threats.  The Strategic Dialogue focused on reaffirming the strong, steady, and deepening bilateral cooperation between the United States and the Czech Republic and our joint commitment to enhance cooperation on a broad range of topics, including closer cooperation with partners in the Indo-Pacific region.  We also affirm our commitment to deepen support and cooperation with democratic partners in the region and around the world, such as Taiwan.

We agree current geopolitical developments make enhancing energy security more urgent than ever.  The United States and the Czech Republic are taking steps to reduce reliance on Russian oil, natural gas, and nuclear fuel by diversifying sources of energy, expanding our already strong cooperation on nuclear power, and reducing consumption in line with our shared climate goals.

The United States and the Czech Republic consulted on the importance of strengthening Transatlantic relations, including cooperation between the United States and the EU, during the Czech Republic’s presidency of the Council of the European Union in the second half of 2022.  Both sides expressed a strong interest in deepening the bilateral strategic partnership in the year ahead and through future strategic dialogues.  The parties plan to hold the next annual meeting in Washington in 2023.

 Department of State Begins Construction on New U.S. Consulate General in Lagos, Nigeria

03/31/2022 08:08 AM EDT

Office of the Spokesperson

At a historic groundbreaking ceremony highlighting the enduring bilateral friendship and partnership between the United States and Nigeria, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu joined U.S. Ambassador Mary Beth Leonard and U.S. Consul General Claire Pierangelo on Thursday to officially mark the beginning of construction of a new, modern U.S. Consulate General in Lagos.

Located on a 12.2-acre site in the rapidly developing Eko Atlantic City on Victoria Island, the new U.S. Consulate General in Lagos will support diplomatic and commercial relations between the United States and Nigeria and will provide U.S. and Nigerian Consulate employees with a safe, secure, sustainable, and modern workplace.  The construction project will take approximately five years, with completion expected in 2027.

Ennead Architects LLP of New York is the design architect, Pernix Federal, LLC of Lombard, Illinois, is the design/build contractor, and EYP, Inc. of Albany, New York, is the architect of record.  A variety of energy efficiency strategies will be incorporated into the site and building design to address varied seasonal conditions and to significantly reduce energy demand.

The new Consulate construction project will directly benefit the Nigerian people.  Over the course of construction, an estimated $95 million will be invested in the local economy through local subcontractors, and suppliers.  Overall, the project will employ approximately 2,500 Nigerian citizens, including engineers, architects, artisans, construction workers, and administrative staff.

Since the start of the Department’s Capital Security Construction Program in 1999, OBO has completed 171 new diplomatic facilities.  OBO currently has more than 50 active projects either in the design phase or under construction worldwide.

OBO provides safe, secure, functional, and resilient facilities that represent the U.S. government to the host nation and that support U.S. diplomats in advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives abroad.

For further information, please contact Christine Foushee at FousheeCT@state.gov or visit www.state.gov/obo.

 

We've invested in new Community Safety Enforcement Officers   We know how important it is for you to live in a borough where you feel safe and we’re working hard to tackle anti-social behaviour and reduce crime. That’s why over the last year, we have implemented a number of measures to continue to achieve this, including investing in a new Community Safety Enforcement Team. We recently went out with two members of the team to hear what they get up to on a daily basis and how they work closely with the police to ensure that you feel safe when out and about in the borough. Click here to find out what else we're doing to keep the borough safe.

 

Thames Freeport grows one-year on It’s been a year since the launch of the Thames Freeport and the demand from businesses wanting to relocate to the area is sky high, according to those behind the initiative. The Freeport links Ford’s world-class Dagenham engine plant with the global ports at London Gateway and Tilbury. The sites have experienced unparalleled demand, with an array of businesses from a range of sectors seeking to take advantage of the substantial financial incentives offered by the Freeport, helping to transform the economic fortunes of the Thames Estuary in the coming years and provide more jobs for local people.

 

Check out our virtual social care recruitment event this March It’s an exciting time to be part of our social work team in Children’s Services. We're investing in our staff to make sure they can dedicate their time to children, young people, and families in the borough. We want to achieve excellent outcomes, and we recognise that our social workers do a tough but rewarding job. We're committed to learning and development, which is why we are a sponsor for the Festival of Learning organised by Community Care. If you are interested in coming to work for our social care team, join us at our free online Festival of Learning recruitment event on Thursday 31 March and find out more about the opportunities that exist in our borough. You’ll hear from our Operational Director for Children’s Care and Support, our Principal Social Worker, and social workers on what it’s like to work here, how we support staff and much more. The evening will be hosted by Dame Lorna Boreland-Kelly and you'll have the chance to ask questions and find out more about current vacancies. Click here to book your free place at our Festival of Learning recruitment event.

 

Are you looking for work in the construction industry? Are you interested in working in the construction industry? If so, head on over to the Barking Learning Centre in Barking Town Centre on Wednesday 16 March between 10.30am and 1pm to speak to employers and apply for roles available within the borough. You will discover a whole host of job vacancies, as well as receive professional careers advice and guidance. There’ll be a job brokerage service, a construction desk from the Barking and Dagenham Job Shop, and a CV service. Employers expected to attend include McLaren, Jerram Falkus, BDTP, Mulalley, JBT Apprenticeships, Be First, and Jobcentre Plus. Don’t forget to bring your CV with you – or have an up-to-date digital version you can email straight across to employers. For further details about the jobs fair, please email construction@lbbd.gov.uk.

 

It's Women's Empowerment Month - celebrate with us You’re invited to enjoy a jam-packed programme of events including exhibitions, workshops and performances, as part of this year’s Women’s Empowerment Month. Our borough is full of strong, inspirational women and girls and throughout March we’ll be marking their fantastic contribution to Barking and Dagenham. Now in its eighth year, our annual celebrations kicked-off with a flag-raising event at Barking Town Hall, last Tuesday, 1 March, and you can attend a host of online and in-person events throughout the month, including a series of writing workshops and discussion panels run through our Pen-to-Print programme. There are also a number of events and exhibitions planned by partner organisations, including the East End Women’s Museum, Sew London CIC, Arc Theatre, Company Drinks and Studio 3 Arts. The programme has something for everyone, so please do get involved. Click here to see what events are taking place for Women’s Empowerment Month in Barking and Dagenham.

 New Community Hubs offer tailored support for residents

The first in a wave of Community Hubs will open in centres at Marks Gate, William Bellamy and Sue Bramley later this month, offering the help you need, nearer to where you live.

As people face the biggest cost of living crisis in years, the new Community Hubs will provide a range of tailored support including benefits and debt advice, access to food and support, jobs and training, family and parenting help, and advice to care for your health and wellbeing.

More Community Hubs will be unveiled across the borough later in the year, making it even easier for you to access help and advice on your doorstep. 

The launch of the Community Hubs was announced as the council approved its budget proposals for 2022/23 at a full council meeting on Wednesday, 2 March. 

 

Travel by public transport, walk, or cycle

Did you know that if you live, work or study in the borough, you can access free cycle training by contacting Vandome Cycles at: info@vandomecycles.co.uk 

You can also reduce your carbon footprint by walking shorter distances... or longer distances if you want to get your daily step count up! 

Check if you're entitled to free or discounted travel on the TfL network here.

 The Kremlin’s Allegations of Chemical and Biological Weapons Laboratories in Ukraine

03/09/2022 05:40 PM EST

Ned Price, Department Spokesperson

The Kremlin is intentionally spreading outright lies that the United States and Ukraine are conducting chemical and biological weapons activities in Ukraine.  We have also seen PRC officials echo these conspiracy theories.  This Russian disinformation is total nonsense and not the first time Russia has invented such false claims against another country.  Also, these claims have been debunked conclusively and repeatedly over many years.

As we have said all along, Russia is inventing false pretexts in an attempt to justify its own horrific actions in Ukraine. The United States does not own or operate any chemical or biological laboratories in Ukraine, it is in full compliance with its obligations under the Chemical Weapons Convention and Biological Weapons Convention, and it does not develop or possess such weapons anywhere. It is Russia that has active chemical and biological weapons programs and is in violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention and Biological Weapons Convention.

Finally, Russia has a track record of accusing the West of the very crimes that Russia itself is perpetrating. These tactics are an obvious ploy by Russia to try to justify further premeditated, unprovoked, and unjustified attacks on Ukraine. We fully expect Russia to continue to double down on these sorts of claims with further unfounded allegations.