Latest news with #High-Level
Hindustan Times
9 hours ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Pakistan violated Indus Water Treaty: India at Glacier Conference in Tajikistan
New Delhi: India strongly objects and condemns Pakistan's attempt to use the International Glacier Conference in Tajikistan 'to bring in unwarranted references to issues which do not fall within the purview of the forum,' said Kirti Vardhan Singh, minister of state for environment, forest and climate change during his address at the Plenary Session of the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers' Preservation on Saturday. This is the first time India and Pakistan exchanged their views on the Indus Water Treaty at an international forum after India on April 23 decided to keep the treaty in abeyance following a terrorist attack in Kashmir's Pahalgam. 'These Himalayan glaciers feed our critical rivers - such as the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus. It is undeniable fact that there have been fundamental changes in the circumstances since the Indus Waters Treaty was executed and that requires a reassessment of the obligations under the Treaty,' Singh said while adding that the changes include technological advancement, demographic changes, climate change, and the threat of persistent cross border terrorism. 'The treaty in its preamble says that it is concluded in the spirit of goodwill and friendship. The obligation to honour the treaty in the good faith is fundamental to it. However, the unrelenting cross border terrorism from Pakistan interferes with an ability to exploit the treaty as per its provisions. Pakistan, which itself is in violation of the treaty, should desist from putting the blame of the breach of the treaty on India,' Singh said during his address. At the International Conference on Glaciers' Preservation, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said his country would not allow India to cross the red line by holding the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance and endangering millions of lives for narrow political gains. 'India's unilateral and illegal decision to hold in abeyance the Indus Waters Treaty, which governs the sharing of the Indus Basin's water, is deeply regrettable,' Pakistani newspaper Dawn quoted Sharif as saying. HT had reported on May 3 that the Indus river basin, among the most vulnerable regions globally to climate change, is experiencing dramatically different impacts across its eastern and western tributaries, recent scientific research has shown, potentially making previous agreements on sharing of waters between India and Pakistan irrelevant. Recent papers have now found that western tributaries like the Indus, Kabul, Jhelum and Chenab are fed by glaciers with more stored water, while eastern tributaries including the Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej draw from significantly lower glacier stored water reserves. Crucially, the pace of glacial melt is higher in the Western Himalayas that feed eastern rivers compared to the Upper Indus basin. This east-west disparity challenges the fundamental assumptions of the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty, which allocated rivers based on historically stable flow patterns. 'From an entirely scientific perspective, the water sharing practices need to be revisited in view of climate change that can alter flow and increase disasters downstream,' Anil Kulkarni, distinguished visiting scientist and glaciologist from Indian Institute of Science (IISc) had said. India also emphasised that retreat of glaciers is not only a warning but an immediate reality with far-reaching implications for water security, biodiversity, and the livelihoods of billions of people. Kirti Vardhan Singh addressed the Plenary Session of the High-Level International Conference on Glaciers' Preservation on Saturday. Highlighting the global and regional consequences of glacial retreat, the minister underscored that the phenomenon is accelerating, with disproportionate impacts on mountain regions such as the Himalayas. He reiterated India's deep-rooted concern, as a country intrinsically connected to the Himalayan ecosystem, and outlined a series of ongoing initiatives aimed at glacial monitoring and climate adaptation, a statement from the environment ministry said. Singh highlighted that India is undertaking strategic actions under the National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem (NMSHE) - a key component of India's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) - as well as the establishment of a Centre for Cryosphere and Climate Change Studies, designed to advance research and monitoring of glaciers and glacial lakes in the Indian Himalayan Region. 'India is leveraging advanced Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies, led by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), to systematically monitor changes in glacier mass, extent, and dynamics. These efforts are further strengthened through coordinated research by key national institutions, including the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology, and the G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment (NIHE),' Singh said. These initiatives are crucial to advancing scientific understanding of glacier systems and supporting data-driven policy formulation for the sustainable management of India's water resources, he added. 'India has strengthened disaster preparedness in the Himalayan region through improved early warning systems and Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) risk mapping, coordinated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Regional cooperation was underscored as vital for strengthening resilience, improving data-sharing frameworks, and fostering coordinated responses to the challenges facing mountain ecosystems,' Singh informed. Singh stressed India's commitment to equity and the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities and Respective Capabilities (CBDR–RC) in international climate action. He emphasised that while South Asia contributes minimally to global cumulative emissions, it remains highly vulnerable to climate change impacts.
Saudi Gazette
3 days ago
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Al-Jadaan underscores pivotal Saudi, Chinese roles in promoting global economic integration
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Financial Sub-Committee of the High-Level Saudi-Chinese Joint Committee convened its fourth meeting via video conference on Wednesday. The session was co-chaired by Saudi Minister of Finance Mohammed Al-Jadaan and Chinese Minister of Finance Lan Fo'an, with the participation of senior officials and representatives from both sides. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral and multilateral economic and financial cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China, improving the effectiveness of international financial institutions, and furthering the strategic partnership between the two countries. Participants exchanged views on enhancing collaboration in key areas including tax policy, capital markets, banking regulations, financing, infrastructure development, and public-private partnerships. In his speech, Al-Jadaan underscored the pivotal roles of Saudi Arabia and China in promoting global economic integration through active engagement in multilateral platforms. He emphasized that such platforms offer a valuable opportunity to support emerging economies and contribute to development, poverty reduction, and inclusive global dialogue. He highlighted the importance of deepening trade and investment ties, enhancing financial integration, and aligning economic policies to promote shared prosperity and sustainable growth. Al-Jadaan called for greater innovation, strengthened research and development, and expanded public-private partnerships to create a more inclusive and competitive financial ecosystem. The minister noted the Kingdom's promising investment prospects for Chinese partners, particularly in infrastructure, tourism, and industrial sectors, as well as in collaboration with Saudi public sector entities. Speaking during the session titled 'Economic and Financial Multilateral Coordination,' Vice Minister of Finance Abdulmuhsen Al-Khalaf praised the leadership roles of Saudi Arabia and China in global financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. He stressed the need for global forums like the Group of Twenty (G20) to prioritize economic challenges and adopt cooperative, solution-driven approaches. Al-Khalaf commended both countries' contributions to international efforts such as the Debt Service Suspension Initiative and the Common Framework for Debt Treatment, describing them as impactful tools for supporting global and emerging economies. He urged continued engagement and exploration of new opportunities within global and regional multilateral platforms to enhance both nations' international standing.
Yahoo
06-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Planto is selected as the winner of Fintech Innovation Challenge: Leveraging AI for SMEs in SEA by the Asian Development Bank
SINGAPORE, March 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Planto, a Hong Kong headquartered fintech company was named an AI for SMEs Challenge winner by the Asian Development Bank (ADB)! This recognition reinforces the company's dedication to empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Southeast Asia with AI-driven financial solutions that make a real impact. Planto's approach is centered on: ✅ Enhancing credit assessment & expanding access to funding – ensuring SMEs receive fairer, data-driven evaluations to unlock growth opportunities. ✅ Supporting financial management & education – equipping business owners with the right tools and knowledge to confidently navigate their financial journey. ✅ Leveraging LLMs for digitization – Streamlining financial processes and reducing friction for SMEs through AI-driven automation. ✅ Preparing SMEs for Open Finance – Laying the groundwork for seamless data sharing and financial connectivity in the evolving financial ecosystem. Going forward, Planto will be enabled by ADB Digital Learning Labs, sharing various insights with ADB staff and partner banks across Southeast Asia with an aim to strengthen financial inclusion and build a more resilient SME ecosystem. "At Planto, we believe that AI has the power to transform financial access for SMEs, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly digital world. Being recognized by the Asian Development Bank is a testament to our mission of empowering businesses with smarter financial solutions. We are excited to continue driving innovation, fostering financial inclusion for SME banking in Southeast Asia," said Ankit Suri, CEO & Co-founder of Planto. "Over 70 million SMEs in Southeast Asia stand to benefit from digitization, AI adoption, and the impending open finance initiatives across the region. This recognition by ADB highlights our belief that the collaboration between financial institutions and fintech can create a lasting impact on SMEs," added Apinun Narkhan, Co-founder. The grant fund for the fintech innovation challenges was received from the High-Level Technology Fund financed by the Government of Japan and administered by ADB. About Planto Founded in 2018, Planto Limited is a fintech company with team members across Asia. Planto offers AI powered data-driven and engaging solutions for both banks and end consumers. The company partners with various financial institutions to develop customer-centric innovative solutions through AI, data and technologies helping banks increase digital engagement, digital sales & operational efficiency. View source version on Contacts Ankit Suri, CEOankit@
Yahoo
19-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Chlorine Dioxide Debuts in Updated Standards for Healthcare Sterilants and High-Level Disinfectants
Unique foam and wipe system offers fast, efficient, and economical high-level disinfection for ultrasound transducers and probes FAIRFIELD, N.J., Feb. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- An updated standard compiled by the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI) and adopted by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has acknowledged chlorine dioxide foam as a novel modality for high-level disinfection of medical devices. The updated standard for the US market echoes a 2024 update of guidelines from the World Federation for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology, which included chlorine dioxide in its instructions for the cleaning and disinfection of endocavitary ultrasound probes. The newly revised AAMI standard, Chemical Sterilization and High-Level Disinfection in Health Care Facilities (ANSI/AAMI ST58:2024), replaces previous versions and provides guidance on FDA-cleared liquid chemical sterilants, high-level disinfectants, and gaseous chemical sterilizers. It is intended as a guide for professionals in hospitals, labs, and other healthcare facilities. Among the changes incorporated in the revised standard is the recognition of a residue removal step as defined in the instructions for use of chlorine dioxide foam. Historically, rinsing with water was the only option recommended under the standard. Now, the use of other residue removal procedures defined by the manufacturer has been recognized and included as an alternative solution. According to AAMI, adopting and implementing ST58 will be critical for preventing healthcare-associated infections. Healthcare professionals can use the updated document to protect patients and demonstrate conformance with best practices. Chlorine Dioxide in US Healthcare Settings Parker Laboratories manufactures and distributes chlorine dioxide foam products for US healthcare markets under an exclusive commercial partnership with UK-based Tristel plc (AIM: TSTL). The company's Tristel ULT is a formulation that uses a proprietary foam and wipes to perform high-level disinfection and residue removal for ultrasound transducers. Tristel ULT received FDA De Novo clearance in June 2023, creating a new category of Class II devices with the generic name 'foam or gel chemical sterilant/high-level disinfectant' intended for use as the final step in high-level disinfection (HLD) of medical devices prior to patient use. Although chlorine dioxide is relatively new to US healthcare markets, the compound has a decades-long history of use in overseas markets. As a high-level disinfectant, Tristel ULT has been tested for efficacy against bacteria, fungi, mycobacteria, and viruses. In studies involving clinically relevant microbes, Tristel ULT was found to be capable of eradicating a wide range of pathogens, including Candida albicans, hepatitis viruses A, B, and C; human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18; and Mycobacterium terrae (a surrogate for M. tuberculosis). In addition, Tristel ULT passed the AOAC International sporicidal activity test. "Asepsis is paramount in infection prevention, especially when we know that up to 60% of central line-associated bloodstream infections are linked to skin flora," says infection prevention expert Constance J. Cutler, MS, BS, BSN, CIC, FSHEA, FAPIC. "Prioritizing patient safety means implementing disinfection strategies that are both effective and efficient. The proven performance of chlorine dioxide in reducing microbial contamination presents a strong business case for its adoption, offering a reliable solution that aligns with both clinical and operational goals." Key Advantages Tristel ULT is delivered in a novel dosing bottle with two separate compartments. One compartment contains the Tristel Part A solution (sodium chlorite) and the other contains the Tristel Part B solution (citric acid). When the pump is pressed, the two solutions mix, generating a precise and consistent dose of chlorine dioxide foam. Compatible with more than 1000 transducer models, Tristel ULT offers advantages over competing HLD products that can make it especially suited for use in a wide variety of clinical settings: Rapid Action. Tristel ULT achieves high-level disinfection quickly, reducing device turnaround time in high-volume, fast-paced healthcare settings. Easy to Use. The application process includes a manufacturer-defined residue removal step, now formally recognized by AAMI, improving workflow efficiency. Cost-Effective. Tristel ULT's ease of use eliminates the need for expensive automated systems, making it accessible for facilities of all sizes. Portable and Practical. Requiring no electricity or water, Tristel ULT is both compact and portable—ideal for point-of-care device processing in all healthcare settings, and particularly for remote or resource-limited locations. "Adopting Tristel ULT has enabled us to better allocate the clinic staff's time to patient care," says Matthew Allaway, MD, a urologist with Urology Associates (Cumberland, MD), and founder and CEO of the medical device company, Perineologic. "As a result, we have increased the number of life-saving procedures we can perform during a typical workday. These efficiencies have improved the overall efficiency of our practice and reduced unnecessary costs and waste." As healthcare facilities continue to seek faster and more-effective solutions for high-level disinfection, the adoption of chlorine dioxide foam has gained momentum worldwide. "Having seen the positive impacts of point-of-care high-level disinfection using chlorine dioxide foam at clinical sites using the ExactVu Micro-Ultrasound System in Europe, Exact Imaging applauds AAMI's guideline update," says Randy AuCoin, president and CEO of Exact Imaging (Markham, ON, Candada). "The Tristel ULT product is validated for use with our EV29L transducer and has already helped many practices safely increase their throughput to provide better care to more patients with micro-ultrasound." Other vendors have developed a method for generating chlorine dioxide in a gaseous formulation that is gentle on materials and is an EPA-registered sterilant. Interest in this formulation has grown recently because of its potential as a safer method for sterilizing medical products, replacing both ethylene oxide and gamma irradiation. Information about the use of chlorine dioxide as a sterilant is now included in an AAMI technical information report, Compatibility of Materials Subject to Sterilization (AAMI TIR17:2024), which is intended to help manufacturers qualify materials for use in products requiring sterilization. About Parker Laboratories Parker Laboratories is a leading global medical product company that develops, manufactures, and sells ultrasound and electromedical contact media and accessories, as well as leading lines of instrument cleaners and disinfectants. A worldwide leader in ultrasound medical products for over 65 years, Parker has consistently been at the forefront of technological advances in the industry. Its flagship product, Aquasonic 100 ultrasound transmission gel, is the world standard for medical ultrasound. For more information, visit Additional Resources Tristel ULT Product Backgrounder Tristel ULT Features and Benefits Tristel ULT Device Compatibility Summary Contact: Liz Dowling760/822-3412liz@ Steve Halasey626/355-2500steve@ and Dennis Public Relations View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Parker Laboratories Sign in to access your portfolio
