Thursday, May 2, 2013
U.S.-MEXICO TRANSBOUNDARY HYDROCARBONS AGREEMENT FACT SHEET
FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
U.S.-Mexico Transboundary Hydrocarbons AgreementFact Sheet
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
May 2, 2013
In 2012, the United States and Mexico signed an agreement concerning the development of oil and gas reservoirs that cross the international maritime boundary between the two countries in the Gulf of Mexico. The Agreement is designed to enhance energy security in North America and support our shared interest to exercise responsible stewardship of the Gulf of Mexico. It is built on a commitment to the safe, efficient, and equitable development of transboundary reservoirs with the highest degree of safety and environmental standards.
Mexico is consistently one of the top three exporters of petroleum to the United States.
The United States is Mexico’s largest supplier of refined oil products, mostly coming from U.S. Gulf Coast refineries.
Former Secretary Clinton and then Mexican Foreign Secretary Espinosa signed the Agreement in Los Cabos in February, 2012. Mexico ratified the agreement in April 2012
The Agreement establishes a framework that promotes unitization of maritime transboundary reservoirs. Upon entry into force, the current moratorium on oil exploration and production along the boundary in the Western Gap portion of the Gulf of Mexico will end.
Mexican law currently prohibits Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) from jointly developing resources with leaseholders on the U.S. side of the boundary. Mexico opened the door to such cooperation in a 2008 energy reform law, but only if the cooperation takes place pursuant to an international agreement governing transboundary reservoirs. The Agreement takes advantage of this opportunity.
The Agreement facilitates the formation of voluntary arrangements – unitization agreements – between U.S. leaseholders and Pemex for the joint exploration and development of transboundary reservoirs. It also provides appropriate incentives to encourage the formation of such arrangements if a reservoir is proven to be transboundary and a unitization agreement is not formed. Ultimately, the Agreement provides that development may proceed in an equitable manner that protects each nation’s interests.
The Agreement provides for ongoing cooperation between the two governments related to safety and the environment, and also provides for joint inspection teams to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Both governments will review and approve all unitization agreements governing the exploration and development of transboundary reservoirs under the Agreement, providing for approval of all safety and environmental measures.
Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate have introduced bills that would approve the Transboundary Agreement and give the Secretary of the Interior the necessary authorization to implement the agreement. The Administration looks forward to speedy passage of the authorizing legislation.
Effect of the Agreement
The Agreement will enable U.S. companies to explore new business opportunities and carry out collaborative projects with the Mexican national oil company PEMEX.
It is expected the Agreement will unlock areas for exploration and exploitation along the boundary within U.S. jurisdiction by providing the legal certainty companies need to invest, potentially providing increased revenues and energy security benefits that would result from increases in production.
This agreement will make nearly 1.5 million acres of the Outer Continental Shelf more attractive to U.S. operators. The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) estimates that this area contains as much as 172 million barrels of oil and 304 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
The Transboundary Agreement will also help mitigate the safety and environmental risks that would result from unilateral exploration and exploitation along the boundary.
U.S.-Mexico Transboundary Hydrocarbons AgreementFact Sheet
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
May 2, 2013
In 2012, the United States and Mexico signed an agreement concerning the development of oil and gas reservoirs that cross the international maritime boundary between the two countries in the Gulf of Mexico. The Agreement is designed to enhance energy security in North America and support our shared interest to exercise responsible stewardship of the Gulf of Mexico. It is built on a commitment to the safe, efficient, and equitable development of transboundary reservoirs with the highest degree of safety and environmental standards.
The United States is Mexico’s largest supplier of refined oil products, mostly coming from U.S. Gulf Coast refineries.
Former Secretary Clinton and then Mexican Foreign Secretary Espinosa signed the Agreement in Los Cabos in February, 2012. Mexico ratified the agreement in April 2012
The Agreement establishes a framework that promotes unitization of maritime transboundary reservoirs. Upon entry into force, the current moratorium on oil exploration and production along the boundary in the Western Gap portion of the Gulf of Mexico will end.
Mexican law currently prohibits Petroleos Mexicanos (PEMEX) from jointly developing resources with leaseholders on the U.S. side of the boundary. Mexico opened the door to such cooperation in a 2008 energy reform law, but only if the cooperation takes place pursuant to an international agreement governing transboundary reservoirs. The Agreement takes advantage of this opportunity.
The Agreement facilitates the formation of voluntary arrangements – unitization agreements – between U.S. leaseholders and Pemex for the joint exploration and development of transboundary reservoirs. It also provides appropriate incentives to encourage the formation of such arrangements if a reservoir is proven to be transboundary and a unitization agreement is not formed. Ultimately, the Agreement provides that development may proceed in an equitable manner that protects each nation’s interests.
The Agreement provides for ongoing cooperation between the two governments related to safety and the environment, and also provides for joint inspection teams to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Both governments will review and approve all unitization agreements governing the exploration and development of transboundary reservoirs under the Agreement, providing for approval of all safety and environmental measures.
Both the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate have introduced bills that would approve the Transboundary Agreement and give the Secretary of the Interior the necessary authorization to implement the agreement. The Administration looks forward to speedy passage of the authorizing legislation.
Effect of the Agreement
It is expected the Agreement will unlock areas for exploration and exploitation along the boundary within U.S. jurisdiction by providing the legal certainty companies need to invest, potentially providing increased revenues and energy security benefits that would result from increases in production.
This agreement will make nearly 1.5 million acres of the Outer Continental Shelf more attractive to U.S. operators. The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) estimates that this area contains as much as 172 million barrels of oil and 304 billion cubic feet of natural gas.
The Transboundary Agreement will also help mitigate the safety and environmental risks that would result from unilateral exploration and exploitation along the boundary.
THE ISTANBUL PROCESS FACT SHEET
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
U.S. Support for the Istanbul Process
Fact Sheet
Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs
April 29, 2013
The "Heart of Asia" foreign ministerial in Almaty, Kazakhstan April 26, 2013 continues a high-level dialogue focused on encouraging security, political, and economic cooperation among Afghanistan and its neighbors. This region-led dialogue was launched in November 2011 to expand practical coordination between Afghanistan and its neighbors and regional partners in facing common threats, including counterterrorism, counternarcotics, poverty, and extremism. The United States and over 20 other nations and organizations serve as "supporting nations" to the process.
As a supporting nation, the United States has taken steps to support the six confidence building measures (CBM) endorsed by the "Heart of Asia" group at the Kabul ministerial in June 2012. Some illustrative examples of U.S. government assistance are listed below:
1. COUNTERTERRORISM CBM
• Through its assistance programs, the United States seeks to enhance the capability of the Central Asian States, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to address transnational terrorism through inclusive technical assistance, training and mentoring, and equipment.
• The United States also funds many initiatives that aim to counter violent extremism and support moderate voices through programs in schools, sports organizations, and the media.
2. TRADE, COMMERCE, AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES CBM
• The United States is working with partners in the region to develop a better environment for trade and investment, through various programs that support and facilitate regional and international trade agreements, accession to the World Trade Organization, as well as the reform actions needed to enable private sector investment.
• The United States is committed to expanding economic opportunities and supporting entrepreneurs in the "Heart of Asia" region. Assistance programs provide technical training, credit facilitation, and platforms for networking that build the capacity of local entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and expand regional commercial linkages. U.S. commitment to local procurement and use of the Northern Distribution Network to supply troops in Afghanistan is creating economic opportunity in Central Asia.
3. EDUCATION CBM
• In Afghanistan, the United States teaches English to over 3,200 youth each year. To advance regional collaboration, the United States will convene 225 teachers of English from Central Asia, Afghanistan, and South Asia for the Central Asia Teachers of English Conference.
• The United States assists with quality assurance and accreditation systems to strengthen Afghan higher education and supports eight university partnerships. The United States funds 120 full scholarships for Afghan women to attend the American University of Afghanistan and the American University of Central Asia, and 68 Fulbright Fellowships for aspiring scholars and junior faculty to study at U.S. universities each year.
4. COUNTERNARCOTICS CBM
• U.S. assistance builds the capacity and provides the equipment necessary for "Heart of Asia" countries to effectively fight narcotics trafficking on their borders. The United States also provides mentoring and training to border professionals across the region, as well as equipment such as training facilities, re-locatable border shelters, scanners, and communication equipment.
• The United States also provides counternarcotics assistance through international organizations, such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). U.S. funding supports such programs as the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Dushanbe and OSCE customs and border guard training. UNODC’s support to the drug control agencies of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan and its Container Control Program in Central Asia help with the development of sustainable enforcement structures at select ports of entry to minimize the risk that shipping containers are used for illicit activities.
5. DISASTER MANAGEMENT CBM
• The United States supports several initiatives that provide platforms for actors across Central Asia to work together to anticipate, monitor and respond to natural disasters. U.S. funded programs promote regional collaboration on seismology, seismic hazard assessment, earthquake engineering, and glacier mass balance monitoring. The United States also contributes annually to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance and supports multiple humanitarian NGOs for drought, flood, earthquake, winter response, and disaster risk reduction programs.
6. REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE CBM
• The United States is supporting projects across the "Heart of Asia" region that improve the capacity to produce and transport energy. Projects include the construction of transmission lines; expansion and improvement of the electric grid; facilitation of cross-border regional energy connections; and development of the nascent gas sector in Afghanistan.
• The United States supports many different transportation infrastructure projects across the region. Projects include the rehabilitation of the main transit routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan; the construction and rehabilitation of 650 km of roads in Pakistan’s border regions; supporting the establishment of an Afghan Rail Authority; and funding a feasibility study on the Salang Tunnel.
U.S. Support for the Istanbul Process
Fact Sheet
Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs
April 29, 2013
The "Heart of Asia" foreign ministerial in Almaty, Kazakhstan April 26, 2013 continues a high-level dialogue focused on encouraging security, political, and economic cooperation among Afghanistan and its neighbors. This region-led dialogue was launched in November 2011 to expand practical coordination between Afghanistan and its neighbors and regional partners in facing common threats, including counterterrorism, counternarcotics, poverty, and extremism. The United States and over 20 other nations and organizations serve as "supporting nations" to the process.
As a supporting nation, the United States has taken steps to support the six confidence building measures (CBM) endorsed by the "Heart of Asia" group at the Kabul ministerial in June 2012. Some illustrative examples of U.S. government assistance are listed below:
1. COUNTERTERRORISM CBM
• Through its assistance programs, the United States seeks to enhance the capability of the Central Asian States, Afghanistan, and Pakistan to address transnational terrorism through inclusive technical assistance, training and mentoring, and equipment.
• The United States also funds many initiatives that aim to counter violent extremism and support moderate voices through programs in schools, sports organizations, and the media.
2. TRADE, COMMERCE, AND INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES CBM
• The United States is working with partners in the region to develop a better environment for trade and investment, through various programs that support and facilitate regional and international trade agreements, accession to the World Trade Organization, as well as the reform actions needed to enable private sector investment.
• The United States is committed to expanding economic opportunities and supporting entrepreneurs in the "Heart of Asia" region. Assistance programs provide technical training, credit facilitation, and platforms for networking that build the capacity of local entrepreneurs to grow their businesses and expand regional commercial linkages. U.S. commitment to local procurement and use of the Northern Distribution Network to supply troops in Afghanistan is creating economic opportunity in Central Asia.
3. EDUCATION CBM
• In Afghanistan, the United States teaches English to over 3,200 youth each year. To advance regional collaboration, the United States will convene 225 teachers of English from Central Asia, Afghanistan, and South Asia for the Central Asia Teachers of English Conference.
• The United States assists with quality assurance and accreditation systems to strengthen Afghan higher education and supports eight university partnerships. The United States funds 120 full scholarships for Afghan women to attend the American University of Afghanistan and the American University of Central Asia, and 68 Fulbright Fellowships for aspiring scholars and junior faculty to study at U.S. universities each year.
4. COUNTERNARCOTICS CBM
• U.S. assistance builds the capacity and provides the equipment necessary for "Heart of Asia" countries to effectively fight narcotics trafficking on their borders. The United States also provides mentoring and training to border professionals across the region, as well as equipment such as training facilities, re-locatable border shelters, scanners, and communication equipment.
• The United States also provides counternarcotics assistance through international organizations, such as the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). U.S. funding supports such programs as the OSCE Border Management Staff College in Dushanbe and OSCE customs and border guard training. UNODC’s support to the drug control agencies of Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan and its Container Control Program in Central Asia help with the development of sustainable enforcement structures at select ports of entry to minimize the risk that shipping containers are used for illicit activities.
5. DISASTER MANAGEMENT CBM
• The United States supports several initiatives that provide platforms for actors across Central Asia to work together to anticipate, monitor and respond to natural disasters. U.S. funded programs promote regional collaboration on seismology, seismic hazard assessment, earthquake engineering, and glacier mass balance monitoring. The United States also contributes annually to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Assistance and supports multiple humanitarian NGOs for drought, flood, earthquake, winter response, and disaster risk reduction programs.
6. REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE CBM
• The United States is supporting projects across the "Heart of Asia" region that improve the capacity to produce and transport energy. Projects include the construction of transmission lines; expansion and improvement of the electric grid; facilitation of cross-border regional energy connections; and development of the nascent gas sector in Afghanistan.
• The United States supports many different transportation infrastructure projects across the region. Projects include the rehabilitation of the main transit routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan; the construction and rehabilitation of 650 km of roads in Pakistan’s border regions; supporting the establishment of an Afghan Rail Authority; and funding a feasibility study on the Salang Tunnel.
NGX NOW PERMITTED TO PROVIDE MEMBERS IN U.S. WITH DIRECT ACCESS TO TRADING SYSTEM
FROM: U.S. COMMODITY FUTURES TRADING COMMISSION
CFTC Issues Order of Registration for the Natural Gas Exchange Inc.
Washington, DC — On May 2, 2013, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission issued an Order of Registration to the Natural Gas Exchange Inc. (NGX), a foreign board of trade located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Under the Order, NGX is permitted to provide its identified members or other participants located in the U.S. with direct access to its electronic order entry and trade matching system. The Order is the first issued by the Commission pursuant to Part 48 of the Commission’s regulations, which provide that such an Order may be issued to a foreign board of trade that possesses, among other things, the attributes of an established, organized exchange and that is subject to continued oversight by a regulator that provides comprehensive supervision and regulation that is comparable to the supervision and regulation exercised by the Commission. NGX submitted an application for registration that included, among other things, representations that NGX and its regulatory authority, the Alberta Securities Commission, satisfy the requirements for registration set forth in regulation 48.7. Commission staff, in reviewing the application, found that NGX has demonstrated its ability to comply with the requirements of the Act and applicable Commission regulations thereunder. Accordingly, the Commission granted NGX an Order of Registration to permit NGX to provide direct access, subject to the terms and conditions specified in the Order, to its identified members or other participants located in the U.S. The terms and conditions applicable to the Order include, among others, that NGX shall comply with the applicable conditions of registration specified in Commission regulation 48.8 and any additional conditions that the Commission deems necessary and may impose, and that NGX shall fulfill each of the representations it made in support of the application for registration. NGX has operated in the U.S. as an Exempt Commercial Market (ECM), under then current section 2(h)(5) of the Commodity Exchange Act, since November 5, 2002, and has been registered as a derivatives clearing organization since 2008.
CFTC Issues Order of Registration for the Natural Gas Exchange Inc.
Washington, DC — On May 2, 2013, the Commodity Futures Trading Commission issued an Order of Registration to the Natural Gas Exchange Inc. (NGX), a foreign board of trade located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Under the Order, NGX is permitted to provide its identified members or other participants located in the U.S. with direct access to its electronic order entry and trade matching system. The Order is the first issued by the Commission pursuant to Part 48 of the Commission’s regulations, which provide that such an Order may be issued to a foreign board of trade that possesses, among other things, the attributes of an established, organized exchange and that is subject to continued oversight by a regulator that provides comprehensive supervision and regulation that is comparable to the supervision and regulation exercised by the Commission. NGX submitted an application for registration that included, among other things, representations that NGX and its regulatory authority, the Alberta Securities Commission, satisfy the requirements for registration set forth in regulation 48.7. Commission staff, in reviewing the application, found that NGX has demonstrated its ability to comply with the requirements of the Act and applicable Commission regulations thereunder. Accordingly, the Commission granted NGX an Order of Registration to permit NGX to provide direct access, subject to the terms and conditions specified in the Order, to its identified members or other participants located in the U.S. The terms and conditions applicable to the Order include, among others, that NGX shall comply with the applicable conditions of registration specified in Commission regulation 48.8 and any additional conditions that the Commission deems necessary and may impose, and that NGX shall fulfill each of the representations it made in support of the application for registration. NGX has operated in the U.S. as an Exempt Commercial Market (ECM), under then current section 2(h)(5) of the Commodity Exchange Act, since November 5, 2002, and has been registered as a derivatives clearing organization since 2008.
U.S. CONGRATULATES POLAND ON THEIR CONSTITUTIION DAY
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
On the Occasion of Poland's Constitution Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
May 1, 2013
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Poland as you celebrate the 222nd anniversary of your constitution this May 3.
Poland continues to inspire advocates of freedom around the world and set an example of steadfast engagement on behalf of prosperity, democracy, and security.
The Polish people know how important and difficult it is to stand up to tyranny. We particularly appreciate Poland’s leadership in the Community of Democracies, and the tangible support Poland has provided for emerging civil societies from Eastern Europe to North Africa. We value our extensive security relationship with Poland, including as NATO Allies, and are proud to serve alongside Polish soldiers in Afghanistan.
As you celebrate Constitution Day, know that the United States stands with you. Ours is an alliance based on the ties of family, a love of freedom, and a shared vision based on common values.
This inspires both our nations as we work toward a free, prosperous, and democratic world.
On the Occasion of Poland's Constitution Day
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
May 1, 2013
On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to the people of Poland as you celebrate the 222nd anniversary of your constitution this May 3.
Poland continues to inspire advocates of freedom around the world and set an example of steadfast engagement on behalf of prosperity, democracy, and security.
The Polish people know how important and difficult it is to stand up to tyranny. We particularly appreciate Poland’s leadership in the Community of Democracies, and the tangible support Poland has provided for emerging civil societies from Eastern Europe to North Africa. We value our extensive security relationship with Poland, including as NATO Allies, and are proud to serve alongside Polish soldiers in Afghanistan.
As you celebrate Constitution Day, know that the United States stands with you. Ours is an alliance based on the ties of family, a love of freedom, and a shared vision based on common values.
This inspires both our nations as we work toward a free, prosperous, and democratic world.
ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR MAY 1, 2013
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Makes Arrests in Helmand Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, May 1, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and two other insurgents in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.
The leader oversees insurgent improvised explosive device operations throughout the district and serves as a weapons facilitator, procuring and distributing explosives, rocket-propelled grenades, ammunition and other military equipment for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district arrested seven insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader in charge of a cell of fighters responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also coordinates IED and suicide-bomber operations throughout the province, and is involved in insurgent weapons facilitation.
-- In Paktia province's Gardez district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader responsible for IED attacks, ambushes, and kidnapping operations against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is connected to suicide bombings and coordinates the movement of weapons in the local area. The security force also arrested another insurgent.
In operations yesterday:
-- Afghan Provincial Response Company Zabul, enabled by coalition forces, killed one insurgent, arrested three others and seized and destroyed weapons, grenades and ammunition in Zabul province's Shah Joy district.
-- In Ghazni province's Ghazni district, Afghan Provincial Response Company Ghazni seized and destroyed 88 pounds of homemade explosives, 16 detonators, several radios and various IED-making materials.
-- Also in Ghazni province, Afghan and U.S. Special Forces in the Andar district provided a quick-reaction force for successful defense of a local police checkpoint.
-- Responding to an attack on local police in Laghman province's Alingar district, an Afghan quick-reaction force, led by members of Provincial Response Company Laghman, killed three insurgents who were attacking a police checkpoint.
 |
| U.S. Army Spc. Cameron Tillinghast, right, loads computers into the back of a tactical vehicle before departing Forward Operating Base Farah to meet with the Farah provincial director of telecommunications in Farah City, Afghanistan, May 1, 2013. Tillinghast is assigned to Provincial Reconstruction Team Farah. U.S. Navy photo by Chief Petty Officer Josh Ives |
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Combined Force Makes Arrests in Helmand Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, May 1, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban leader and two other insurgents in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Afghanistan's Helmand province today, military officials reported.
The leader oversees insurgent improvised explosive device operations throughout the district and serves as a weapons facilitator, procuring and distributing explosives, rocket-propelled grenades, ammunition and other military equipment for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces.
In other Afghanistan operations today:
-- A combined force in Kandahar province's Panjwai district arrested seven insurgents during a search for a senior Taliban leader in charge of a cell of fighters responsible for attacks against Afghan and coalition forces. He also coordinates IED and suicide-bomber operations throughout the province, and is involved in insurgent weapons facilitation.
-- In Paktia province's Gardez district, a combined force arrested a Haqqani network leader responsible for IED attacks, ambushes, and kidnapping operations against Afghan and coalition forces. He also is connected to suicide bombings and coordinates the movement of weapons in the local area. The security force also arrested another insurgent.
In operations yesterday:
-- Afghan Provincial Response Company Zabul, enabled by coalition forces, killed one insurgent, arrested three others and seized and destroyed weapons, grenades and ammunition in Zabul province's Shah Joy district.
-- In Ghazni province's Ghazni district, Afghan Provincial Response Company Ghazni seized and destroyed 88 pounds of homemade explosives, 16 detonators, several radios and various IED-making materials.
-- Also in Ghazni province, Afghan and U.S. Special Forces in the Andar district provided a quick-reaction force for successful defense of a local police checkpoint.
-- Responding to an attack on local police in Laghman province's Alingar district, an Afghan quick-reaction force, led by members of Provincial Response Company Laghman, killed three insurgents who were attacking a police checkpoint.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
SENATE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE FINDS OVERSEAS CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS LACKING OVERSIGHT
FROM: SENATE ARMED SERVICES COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN CARL LEVIN'S WEBSITEWednesday, April 17, 2013
WASHINGTON – A Senate Armed Services Committee review of the Defense Department’s annual $10 billion overseas spending [PDF] has found construction projects lacking congressional or Pentagon oversight, and allied contributions failing to keep up with rapidly rising U.S. costs.
The year-long review of spending in Japan, South Korea and Germany, where nearly 70 percent of spending to support our permanent overseas facilities takes place, suggests that changes to the management of such spending are necessary and that closer scrutiny is warranted to avoid future commitments that may be inefficient or unaffordable.
"Japan, South Korea and Germany are critical allies. In order to better sustain our presence in these important locations, we need to understand and control our costs. Federal dollars should always be spent with utmost care, but at a time when the Pentagon and the entire federal government face enormous fiscal challenges, the questionable projects and lack of oversight identified in this review are simply unacceptable," said Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich., the committee chairman. "Every dollar spent on unnecessary or unsustainable projects is a dollar unavailable to care for our troops and their families, to maintain and modernize equipment, and to pay for necessary investments in base infrastructure."
"This report reaffirms the committee's commitment to ensure that the resources we provide to the armed forces, as well as contributions provided by our allies, are directed towards the most critical core defense requirements of our U.S. Military stationed overseas," said Sen. James Inhofe, R-Okla., the committee’s ranking member. "In an unprecedented era of rapidly decreasing defense funds, we will continue to extend oversight to each and every taxpayer dollar spent for our national defense."
Among the review’s findings:
U.S. Forces Korea’s (USFK) use of hundreds of millions of dollars of in-kind contributions from South Korea is subject to little oversight by the Department of the Army, U.S. Pacific Command or the Defense Department. Congress is not even notified about projects built by USFK with in-kind contributions. The committee’s review identified plans to use in-kind contributions for a $10 million museum and a fiscally ill-conceived dining hall project rather than mission-critical facilities.
A U.S. Army proposal for a public-private partnership to build military family housing in South Korea would increase the rental portion of the overseas housing allowance paid to military families housed in the development from the current standard $1,600 per month to $3,900 per month. The Army’s justification for the proposed increase relies on an unprecedented interpretation of overseas housing allowance regulations. The committee’s analysis indicates that, if approved, the proposal would cost U.S. taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars more than the standard overseas housing allowance for military families.
The committee’s findings raise issues associated with cost of the planned realignment of U.S. forces in the Asia Pacific. The committee has declined to authorize spending for some of these realignment initiatives until detailed plans and cost estimates are produced.
U.S. contributions to the cost of maintaining forces in South Korea grew by more than $500 million between 2008 and 2012. By comparison, South Korea’s contributions under the U.S. – Korea Special Measures Agreement grew by about $42 million during that same period.
In Japan, host-nation burden-sharing payments have failed to keep pace with U.S. costs. For example, Japan’s contributions to a voluntary cost-sharing program have fallen more than 80 percent since 1992 from more than $1 billion to about $200 million.
In response to the findings, Levin has asked Armed Services Committee staff to look into what changes in law may be required to reform how foreign government payments are negotiated and spent. Levin has previously communicated to the department his opposition to the large proposed increase in rental rates to support the construction of family housing in South Korea. Already, Congress has precluded the Department from spending funds to support Marine realignment in the Pacific until the Pentagon produces detailed plans and cost estimates and meets other requirements.
USS MONTEREY ARRIVES IN ALBANIAN PORT AND JOHN C. STENNIS CARRIER STRIKE GROUP AIRCRAFT FLY IN FORMATION
FROM: U.S. NAVY
130428-N-QL471-088 PORTO PALERMO, Albania (April 28, 2013) The guided-missile cruiser USS Monterey (CG 61) arrives in Porto Palermo, Albania, to participate in an exercise with the Albanian navy. Monterey is deployed in support of maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Billy Ho/Released)
130425-N-YW024-236 PACIFIC OCEAN (April 25,2013) Aircraft from the John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group fly in formation during an air power demo above the aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74). The John C. Stennis Carrier Strike Group, consisting of Stennis, CVW-9, Destroyer Squadron 21 and guided-missile cruiser USS Mobile Bay (CG-53), is returning from an eight-month deployment to the U.S. 5th and 7th Fleet areas of responsibility. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Katarzyna Kobiljak/ Released)
GSA TOUTS COMPETITION'S SUCESS IN CUTTING ENERGY USE IN BUILDINGS
FROM: GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION
GSA's ENERGY STAR Buildings Save Taxpayer Dollars
15 federal buildings in national building competition make deep cuts in energy use
April 30, 2013
Washington, DC -- Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced that 15 of its buildings saved an estimated $961,470 taxpayer dollars and met top energy benchmarks in the 2012 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition. GSA is meeting energy performance standards in buildings across our portfolio with a variety of strategies, and our efforts are improving federal buildings and saving taxpayer dollars, while easing the government’s impact on the environment.
"These 15 buildings saved nearly a million taxpayer dollars, and across our portfolio of federal buildings we are finding ways to bring down costs and deliver better value to the American people," said Dorothy Robyn, GSA’s Public Buildings Service Commissioner. "GSA is proud to have so many of our buildings meet top rankings in such a wide competition. We are using variety of strategies to make our existing buildings more energy efficient, and they are paying off."
Two of GSA’s facilities achieved energy reductions of more than 30 percent and made it into the top 10 rankings in a competition that included more than 3,000 schools, businesses, and government buildings nationwide. The Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Courthouse in Newark, New Jersey achieved a 36.8 percent energy savings and the San Antonio Federal Building in San Antonio, Texas achieved 34.4 savings. GSA had 13 more buildings that were remarkably strong competitors in this contest and reduced energy consumption by at least 20 percent.
GSA’s participation in this contest drove down utility bills and substantially reduced greenhouse gas emissions. GSA used advanced meters and smart buildings technology to monitor improvements. Some other examples of the measures taken in these buildings included insulation projects, sealing structures, manually adjusting window shades, using smaller water heaters, and retrofitting light fixtures.
The 2012 Energy Star National Building Competition measured energy performance for the entire 2012 calendar year. GSA tracked monthly energy consumption using EPA's free online energy tracking tool, Enerby Star Portfolio Manager. The energy reductions for each of the top competitors were verified by an independently licensed professional engineer or registered architect. The program calculated cost savings using the national average costs for commercial utilities. .
In his 2009 Executive Order, President Obama directed federal agencies to lead by example in their environmental, energy, and economic performance. GSA has made our portfolio of federal buildings more energy efficient through an array of strategies including EPA’s ENERGY STAR programs, Energy Savings Performance Contracts, GSA’s Shave Energy Program, advanced metering, and Green Proving Ground Program.
Below is a complete list of GSA’s 2012 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition facilities that reduced energy consumption by at least 20 percent.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Courthouse, Newark, New Jersey -- 36.8 percent
• San Antonio Federal Building, San Antonio, Texas -- 34.4 percent
• IRS Building, Provo, Utah -- 30.8 percent
• Pierre Federal Courthouse, Pierre, South Dakota -- 28.9 percent
• Allen Ellender Federal Building, Houma, Louisiana -- 27.4 percent
• Howard M. Metzenbaum U.S. Courthouse, Cleveland, Ohio -- 26.7 percent
• Thomas Foley Courthouse, Spokane, Washington -- 23.4 percent
• Neal Smith Federal Building, Des Moines, Iowa -- 23.4 percent
• F. Edward Herbert Federal Building, New Orleans, Louisiana -- 22.5 percent
• Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building, Victoria, Texas -- 22.5 percent
• U.S. Border Station, North Troy, Vermont -- 22 percent
• Elijah Barrett Prettyman U.S. Courthouse, Washington, D.C. -- 21.9 percent
• Grand Island Federal Building, Grand Island, Nebraska -- 21.5 percent
• Nathaniel R. Jones Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, Youngstown, Ohio -- 20.4 percent
• United States Post Office and Courthouse, Batesville, Arkansas -- 20.1 percent
GSA's ENERGY STAR Buildings Save Taxpayer Dollars
15 federal buildings in national building competition make deep cuts in energy use
April 30, 2013
Washington, DC -- Today, the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) announced that 15 of its buildings saved an estimated $961,470 taxpayer dollars and met top energy benchmarks in the 2012 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition. GSA is meeting energy performance standards in buildings across our portfolio with a variety of strategies, and our efforts are improving federal buildings and saving taxpayer dollars, while easing the government’s impact on the environment.
"These 15 buildings saved nearly a million taxpayer dollars, and across our portfolio of federal buildings we are finding ways to bring down costs and deliver better value to the American people," said Dorothy Robyn, GSA’s Public Buildings Service Commissioner. "GSA is proud to have so many of our buildings meet top rankings in such a wide competition. We are using variety of strategies to make our existing buildings more energy efficient, and they are paying off."
Two of GSA’s facilities achieved energy reductions of more than 30 percent and made it into the top 10 rankings in a competition that included more than 3,000 schools, businesses, and government buildings nationwide. The Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Courthouse in Newark, New Jersey achieved a 36.8 percent energy savings and the San Antonio Federal Building in San Antonio, Texas achieved 34.4 savings. GSA had 13 more buildings that were remarkably strong competitors in this contest and reduced energy consumption by at least 20 percent.
GSA’s participation in this contest drove down utility bills and substantially reduced greenhouse gas emissions. GSA used advanced meters and smart buildings technology to monitor improvements. Some other examples of the measures taken in these buildings included insulation projects, sealing structures, manually adjusting window shades, using smaller water heaters, and retrofitting light fixtures.
The 2012 Energy Star National Building Competition measured energy performance for the entire 2012 calendar year. GSA tracked monthly energy consumption using EPA's free online energy tracking tool, Enerby Star Portfolio Manager. The energy reductions for each of the top competitors were verified by an independently licensed professional engineer or registered architect. The program calculated cost savings using the national average costs for commercial utilities. .
In his 2009 Executive Order, President Obama directed federal agencies to lead by example in their environmental, energy, and economic performance. GSA has made our portfolio of federal buildings more energy efficient through an array of strategies including EPA’s ENERGY STAR programs, Energy Savings Performance Contracts, GSA’s Shave Energy Program, advanced metering, and Green Proving Ground Program.
Below is a complete list of GSA’s 2012 ENERGY STAR National Building Competition facilities that reduced energy consumption by at least 20 percent.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Courthouse, Newark, New Jersey -- 36.8 percent
• San Antonio Federal Building, San Antonio, Texas -- 34.4 percent
• IRS Building, Provo, Utah -- 30.8 percent
• Pierre Federal Courthouse, Pierre, South Dakota -- 28.9 percent
• Allen Ellender Federal Building, Houma, Louisiana -- 27.4 percent
• Howard M. Metzenbaum U.S. Courthouse, Cleveland, Ohio -- 26.7 percent
• Thomas Foley Courthouse, Spokane, Washington -- 23.4 percent
• Neal Smith Federal Building, Des Moines, Iowa -- 23.4 percent
• F. Edward Herbert Federal Building, New Orleans, Louisiana -- 22.5 percent
• Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Building, Victoria, Texas -- 22.5 percent
• U.S. Border Station, North Troy, Vermont -- 22 percent
• Elijah Barrett Prettyman U.S. Courthouse, Washington, D.C. -- 21.9 percent
• Grand Island Federal Building, Grand Island, Nebraska -- 21.5 percent
• Nathaniel R. Jones Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse, Youngstown, Ohio -- 20.4 percent
• United States Post Office and Courthouse, Batesville, Arkansas -- 20.1 percent
WI-FI TO BE PRIMARY MEANS FOR DOD PERSONNEL TO ACCESS DATA
FROM: U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
'Any Time, Anywhere' Data Access Coming Soon, Official Says
By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, April 30, 2013 - In the not-too-distant future, Defense Department personnel will be able to securely access data any time and anywhere, the department's deputy chief information officer for command, control, communications and computers and information infrastructure said here today.
The current mobility strategy calls for Wi-Fi to be the primary means for DOD personnel to access routine data by 2017, Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert E. Wheeler said at the Mobile Work Exchange Spring 2013 Town Hall Meeting.
The department is conducting more than 70 pilot programs in its effort to make this vision a reality, he said.
One of these programs, the electronic flight bag, paid for itself within about a month of implementation, he said. In the past, airplane pilots had to carry with them numerous paper manuals and maps every time they flew, and each had to be regularly updated. The publications could weigh up to 80 pounds, depending on the aircraft, Wheeler said.
"You carry all that on a tablet, ... you think of the fuel savings. You think of the ability to update on a commercial site. ... It was a big money savings for us," he said.
The modernization of Defense Department mobile communications hasn't been mistake-free, the general acknowledged, citing as an example the secure mobile environment portable electronic device, or SME PED. The devices, intended to enable users to send and receive both classified and unclassified data, cost more than $8,000 per unit and are too slow for today's data-driven communications, Wheeler said. The mobility strategy calls for the device to be phased out from fiscal year 2015 to fiscal 2017.
The department will continue to look for faster, more secure and cheaper ways to use technology and transmit information, he said, adding that the ultimate goal is to speed up productivity to maintain information dominance.
"Our challenge is to bring it to the warfighter every place they need it -- whether it's in Washington, D.C., to the edge of the battlefield, [or] onto the battlefield," Wheeler said.
Location isn't the only challenge, he said. The department divides data into one of three domains, Wheeler said: commercial, unclassified and classified. Classified data requires special consideration, and mobile device access to this domain is being implemented more slowly than it is to the unclassified domain.
The Defense Information Systems Agency is rolling out mobile device access to DOD users in multiple phases, Wheeler said. By fiscal 2014, more than 100,000 mobile devices will be approved for access to unclassified Defense Department networks, he added.
"Right now, our process is 9 to 12 months to approve a phone," he said. That's too long if the department wants to keep pace with technology, Wheeler said.
The department is working with the National Institute of Standards and Technology to refine requirements for these devices, he said. DOD's goal is for new hardware, new applications and new mobile operating systems to be approved or denied for use on defense networks within 30 days of submission, Wheeler said, ensuring that the right devices are in the hands of warfighters as quickly as possible.
In the future, mobile devices could, in some cases, entirely replace desktop computers or desk phones, Wheeler said. But even before that happens, he said, by cutting down on costs and ending the "fragmented methodologies" of the old mobility strategy, the mobility program pays for itself in about 15 months.
That includes all the front-end investment, all the networking and all the mobile device management, Wheeler added.
"So, from a taxpayer perspective, it's a very good approach," he said, adding that it will also allow the department to increase productivity. "We really don't even know how far we could go yet," Wheeler said, "and I think that's the exciting part of it."
'Any Time, Anywhere' Data Access Coming Soon, Official Says
By Claudette Roulo
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, April 30, 2013 - In the not-too-distant future, Defense Department personnel will be able to securely access data any time and anywhere, the department's deputy chief information officer for command, control, communications and computers and information infrastructure said here today.
The current mobility strategy calls for Wi-Fi to be the primary means for DOD personnel to access routine data by 2017, Air Force Maj. Gen. Robert E. Wheeler said at the Mobile Work Exchange Spring 2013 Town Hall Meeting.
The department is conducting more than 70 pilot programs in its effort to make this vision a reality, he said.
One of these programs, the electronic flight bag, paid for itself within about a month of implementation, he said. In the past, airplane pilots had to carry with them numerous paper manuals and maps every time they flew, and each had to be regularly updated. The publications could weigh up to 80 pounds, depending on the aircraft, Wheeler said.
"You carry all that on a tablet, ... you think of the fuel savings. You think of the ability to update on a commercial site. ... It was a big money savings for us," he said.
The modernization of Defense Department mobile communications hasn't been mistake-free, the general acknowledged, citing as an example the secure mobile environment portable electronic device, or SME PED. The devices, intended to enable users to send and receive both classified and unclassified data, cost more than $8,000 per unit and are too slow for today's data-driven communications, Wheeler said. The mobility strategy calls for the device to be phased out from fiscal year 2015 to fiscal 2017.
The department will continue to look for faster, more secure and cheaper ways to use technology and transmit information, he said, adding that the ultimate goal is to speed up productivity to maintain information dominance.
"Our challenge is to bring it to the warfighter every place they need it -- whether it's in Washington, D.C., to the edge of the battlefield, [or] onto the battlefield," Wheeler said.
Location isn't the only challenge, he said. The department divides data into one of three domains, Wheeler said: commercial, unclassified and classified. Classified data requires special consideration, and mobile device access to this domain is being implemented more slowly than it is to the unclassified domain.
The Defense Information Systems Agency is rolling out mobile device access to DOD users in multiple phases, Wheeler said. By fiscal 2014, more than 100,000 mobile devices will be approved for access to unclassified Defense Department networks, he added.
"Right now, our process is 9 to 12 months to approve a phone," he said. That's too long if the department wants to keep pace with technology, Wheeler said.
The department is working with the National Institute of Standards and Technology to refine requirements for these devices, he said. DOD's goal is for new hardware, new applications and new mobile operating systems to be approved or denied for use on defense networks within 30 days of submission, Wheeler said, ensuring that the right devices are in the hands of warfighters as quickly as possible.
In the future, mobile devices could, in some cases, entirely replace desktop computers or desk phones, Wheeler said. But even before that happens, he said, by cutting down on costs and ending the "fragmented methodologies" of the old mobility strategy, the mobility program pays for itself in about 15 months.
That includes all the front-end investment, all the networking and all the mobile device management, Wheeler added.
"So, from a taxpayer perspective, it's a very good approach," he said, adding that it will also allow the department to increase productivity. "We really don't even know how far we could go yet," Wheeler said, "and I think that's the exciting part of it."
LANL ARTICLE ON CONVERTING WOODY BIOMASS INTO VEHICLE FUELS
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| Los Alamos research better converts energy from fields into fuel tanks. Graphic Credit: LANL |
LOS ALAMOS, N.M., April 30, 2013—One of the more promising roads to energy independence leads away from crude oil and into the forests and fields. For years, scientists have been seeking efficient means to convert non-food based biomass into fuels and chemical feedstocks, reducing fossil-fuel dependence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To that end, Los Alamos scientists and collaborators from The University of Guelph in Canada published an article in the scientific journal Nature Chemistry this week that could offer a big step on the path to renewable energy.
The April journal article, "The hydrodeoxgenation of bioderived furans into alkanes," describes how to take building blocks that are derived from glucose or cellulose (a carbohydrate that is a constituent of woody biomass and the most common organic compound on Earth) and couple them with other bio-derived building blocks to give new molecules that have between eight and fifteen carbons in a row. The researchers’ then convert these molecules into hydrocarbons that are similar to those found in gasoline and diesel, enabling an opportunity to synthesize drop-in fuel replacements or industrial chemicals such as polymers, pharmaceuticals and pesticides from biomass.
This work describes a completely new approach, an alternative route to convert this class of molecules to hydrocarbons that uses much less energy and has a very high degree of conversion to provide pure products. This very general method allows researchers to generate a range of alkanes from a variety of biomass-derived molecules. The team is looking to improve catalyst recyclability and scale-up methods.
U.S. DEFENSE SECRETARY HAGEL MEETS WITH GERMAN DEFENSE MINISTER THOMAS de MAIZIERE
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| Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, left, welcomes German Defense Minister Thomas de Maiziere at the Pentagon, April 30, 2013. The two defense leaders met to discuss issues of mutual concern. DOD photo by U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Aaron Hostutler |
FROM: U.S DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE
Hagel Hosts German Defense Minister at Pentagon
American Forces Press Service
WASHINGTON, April 30, 2013 - Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel hosted German Defense Minister Thomas de Maizière today at the Pentagon and commended Germany's leadership in Europe and among the NATO allies, Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.
In a statement summarizing their meeting, Little said the two leaders discussed Germany's essential support to allied operations in Afghanistan.
"Secretary Hagel thanked Germany for its vital leadership within the International Security Assistance Force, particularly its leadership of Regional Command North," Little said. "Secretary Hagel applauded Germany's recent announcement to continue security support to Afghanistan post-2014 and discussed U.S. considerations for an enduring presence."
Hagel also appreciates Germany for its support to NATO's defensive mission in Turkey along the Syrian border, the press secretary said. Noting that Germany, the Netherlands, and the United States have contributed Patriot anti-missile batteries to augment Turkey's defenses, he added that "the mission demonstrates the solidarity of the alliance against common threats."
The two defense leaders also discussed NATO's future and the importance of the alliance, Little said.
"Secretary Hagel affirmed that NATO is not only the cornerstone of the transatlantic relationship, but the benchmark for multilateral security cooperation around the world," he said. "The leaders discussed ideas for improving NATO's capabilities and approaches for ensuring NATO remains capable of meeting future security challenges."
ISAF NEWS FROM AFGHANISTAN FOR APRIL 30, 2013
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| U.S. Army Pfc. Robert Tucker talks on his radio while providing rooftop security for the customs checkpoint at Torkham Gate in Afghanistan's Nangarhar province, April 24, 2013. Tucker, an infantryman, is assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's Company A, 1st Battalion, 327th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Margaret Taylor. |
Combined Force Arrests Taliban Facilitator in Logar Province
From an International Security Assistance Force Joint Command News Release
KABUL, Afghanistan, April 30, 2013 - A combined Afghan and coalition security force arrested a Taliban facilitator and another insurgent in the Pul-e Alam district of Afghanistan's Logar province today, military officials reported.
The facilitator is responsible for acquiring weapons and distributing them to insurgents throughout the district. He also is involved in attacks against Afghan and coalition forces and conducts reconnaissance operations against coalition military forces.
In Ghazni province's Muqor district yesterday, an Afghan quick-reaction force killed three insurgents and wounded four others after responding to an attack on a local police checkpoint.
In other news from Afghanistan, Afghan and coalition security forces today confirmed the arrest of a high-profile attack facilitator for the Taj Mir Jawad insurgent network during an April 28 operation in Paktia province's Gardez district. The facilitator is responsible for providing weapons and funding for insurgent fighters. At the time of his arrest, he was gathering supplies and fighters for a future high-profile attack against Afghan and coalition forces, officials said.
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