FROM: U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
CONTRACTS
ARMY
Jacobs Field Services North America Inc., Oak Ridge, Tenn., has been awarded a $45,000,000 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for interim Remedial Action Contract for the New Bedford Harbor Superfund Site. The base year and two six-month option periods will be exercised at the time of award. Funding is from fiscal year 2013 other appropriations. The performance location is New Bedford, Mass., with an estimated completion date of Aug. 13, 2015. One bid was solicited and one received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – New England District, Concord, Mass., is the contracting activity (W912WJ-14-D-0002).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, Herndon, Va., has been awarded a $12,430,650 firm-fixed-price contract for Spectrum Monitoring Subsystem to be installed at U.S. Army Remote Monitor Control Equipment locations. Funding is from fiscal year 2013 and 2014 other procurement Army appropriations. The performance location is Herndon, Va., with an estimated completion date of Feb. 13, 2016. One bid was solicited and one received. The U.S. Army Contracting Command – Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-14-C-0021).
Plateau Software, Inc.*, Issaquah, Wash., has been awarded a $9,000,000 firm-fixed-price, sole-source, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for support and maintenance of existing information technology systems that support the Environmental Protection and Sustainment program. Funding and performance location will be determined with each order. The estimated completion date is Feb. 12, 2017. One bid was solicited and one received. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers – Mobile District, Mobile, Ala., is the contracting activity (W91278-14-D-0018).
AMERICAN ORDNANCE LLC, Milan, Tenn., has been awarded a $7,547,742 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for calendar year 2014 care, maintenance and surveillance of field service stocks and packaging, crating and handling of field service stocks at Milan Army Ammunition Plant. Funding is from fiscal year 2014 operations and maintenance Army appropriations. Work is to be performed at Milan, Tenn., with an estimated completion date of Dec. 31, 2014. One bid was solicited with one received. The U.S. Army Contracting Command – Rock Island Arsenal, Rock Island, Ill., is the contracting activity (W52P1J-09-G-0001).
AIR FORCE
AAR Manufacturing, Inc., doing business as AAR Mobility Systems, Cadillac, Mich., has been awarded a $133,024,408 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the repair and production of 463L cargo pallets. Work will be performed at Cadillac, Mich., and is expected to be complete by Feb. 13, 2016. This award is the result of a competitive trade-off source selection acquisition, and five offers were received. Fiscal 2014 and 2015 operations and maintenance funds coming from the Transportation Working Capital Fund (TWCF) and Centralized Asset Management Fund (CAM) will be utilized on each order issued against this IDIQ contract. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WNKBBA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8519-14-D-0002).
COLSA Corp., Huntsville, Ala., has been awarded a $55,705,947 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity modification (19) on an existing firm-fixed-price contract (FA9200-10-D-0166) for technical and acquisition management support services. This modification is for the exercise of an option for additional diverse non-engineering, technical and acquisition management support services being provided under the basic contract. Work will be performed at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2015. The current action relates to unclassified foreign military sales only and countries include Australia, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Greece, Israel, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates. Air Force Test Center/PZZ, Eglin AFB, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Oasis Systems, LLC, Lexington, Mass., has been awarded a $55,705,947 modification (22) for an existing firm-fixed-price contract (FA9200-10-D-0173) for technical and acquisition management support services. This modification is for the exercise of an option for additional diverse non-engineering, technical and acquisition management support services being provided under the basic contract. Work will be performed at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 28, 2015. The current action relates to 100 percent unclassified foreign military sales only and countries include Australia, Belgium, Chile, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Greece, Israel, Japan, Korea, Kuwait, Malaysia, Netherlands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, Turkey, and United Arab Emirates. Air Force Test Center/PZZ is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Information Systems and Global Solutions, Gaithersburg Md., has been awarded a $16,421,355 modification (P000064) for an existing cost-plus-incentive-fee contract (FA8726-09-C-0006)for Global Broadcast Service (GBS) Defense Enterprise Computing Center (DEC C) Software Sustainment and GBS Operations Center (GBSOC) Operations. This contract modification adds software sustainment to maintain the GBS DECC software baseline and provide personnel to staff the GBSOC 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year in support of worldwide GBS operations. Work will be performed in Gaithersburg, Md., and Colorado Springs, Colo., and is expected to be completed by Dec. 31, 2015. Fiscal 2014 research and development funds in the amount of $788,648 and operations and maintenance funds in the amount of $9,542,004 are being obligated at time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/HNAK, Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., is the contracting activity.
NAVY
BAE Systems Norfolk Ship Repair, Norfolk, Va., is being awarded a $56,967,490 undefinitized contract action as a modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-11-C-4403) for USS Monterey (CG 61) fiscal 2014 extended drydocking selected restricted availability. An extended drydocking selected restricted availability includes the planning and execution of depot-level maintenance, alterations, and modifications that will update and improve the ship's military and technical capabilities. Work will be performed in Norfolk, Va., and is expected to be completed by January 2015. Fiscal 2014 operations & maintenance, Navy funds in the amount of $44,959,750 will be obligated at time of award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Norfolk Ship Support Activity, Norfolk, Va., is the administrative contracting activity.
Navmar Applied Sciences Corp.,* Warminster, Pa., is being awarded a $44,695,815 cost-plus-fixed-fee, firm-fixed-price contract for a Phase III Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) effort in support of the Copperhead Unmanned Air Systems, specifically Tigershark Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This project is for the improvement of sensor and platform capabilities, expansion to additional detachments and sustainment of current detachments. This contract includes continued improvements of the Tigershark UAV airframe, incorporation of improved sensors, and integration of improved command and control systems to current and future Copperhead platforms. Work will be performed in Afghanistan (50 percent); Patuxent River, Md. (25 percent); and Yuma, Ariz. (25 percent), and is expected to be completed in December 2014. Fiscal 2014 operation and maintenance, Army funds in the amount of $21,000,000 are being obligated on this award, all of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This Phase III SBIR contract was not competitively procured pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 2304(c)(5). The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity (N68335-14-C-0131).
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev. (M67854-14-D-2521) and Northrop Grumman Corp., Herndon, Va. (M67854-14-D-2522) are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity multiple award contract for the counter radio-controlled improvised explosive device (IED) electronic warfare Marine Expeditionary Unit Special Operation capable (CREW MEU (SOC), dismounted systems. The CREW MEU (SOC) program addresses an urgent and compelling need for a capability to counter the threat posed by IEDs. The maximum ceiling for both contracts is $90,000,000, with the two contractors having an opportunity to compete for individual orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contracts throughout the 60-month ordering period of the contracts. The contractors will deliver five initial production systems each for testing under the first delivery orders and the remaining 360 production systems and contract requirements will be competed for each subsequent delivery order. Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev. and Herndon, Va., and work is expected to be completed in February 2019. Fiscal 2013 procurement Marine Corps contract funds in the total amount of $11,008,795 will be obligated at the time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. These contracts are the result of a full and open competition solicitation via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with two offers received. Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., McKinney, Texas, is being awarded a $9,522,446 modification to a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N68836-13-C-0084) for the full design, manufacture, and installation of test equipment, associated testing, and training to standup an organic depot maintenance facility to support the AN/APY-10 Radar. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and work will be completed by March 31, 2016. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement, Navy funds in the amount of $9,522,446 will be obligated at the time of award, and will not expire at the end of this current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured in accordance with 10 U.S.C. 2304 (c)(1) – only one responsible source and no other supplies or services will satisfy agency requirements. NAVSUP Fleet Logistics Center, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Lockheed Martin Corp., Owego, N.Y., has been awarded a maximum $30,814,317 firm-fixed-price contract for receiver transmitters. This contract is a sole-source acquisition. This is a four-year base contract with no option year periods. Location of performance is New York with a Feb. 28, 2018 performance completion date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 Navy working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPRWA1-13-D-2000-THAC).
Lockheed Martin, Orlando, Fla., has been awarded a maximum $16,584,869 firm-fixed-price contract for turret assemblies. This contract is a sole-source acquisition. This is a 31-month base contract with no option year periods. Location of performance is Florida with a Sep. 30, 2016 performance completion date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 through fiscal 2016 Navy working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPRPA1-14-C-W009).
DEFENSE FINANCE AND ACCOUNTING SERVICE
CACI, Inc. - Federal, Chantilly, Va., is being awarded a $10,803,390 modification to previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (HC1028-08-D-2016-9R01) to provide on-site operational support to the mission systems of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) in the areas relating to system maintenance, system conversion and migration, report generation and documentation, training and guidance on the Comptroller Mission Systems as well as service desk and network operations. This contract modification exercises the fourth option year of
a five-year contract period. Work will be performed in Chantilly and is expected to be completed Feb. 15, 2015. Defense Finance and Accounting Service, Contract Services Directorate, Columbus, Ohio is the contracting activity.
*Small Business
Friday, February 14, 2014
NANORACKS CUBESATS DEPLOYED
ISS038-E-045009 (11 Feb. 2014) --- The Small Satellite Orbital Deployer (SSOD), in the grasp of the Kibo laboratory robotic arm, is photographed by an Expedition 38 crew member on the International Space Station as it deploys a set of NanoRacks CubeSats. The CubeSats program contains a variety of experiments such as Earth observations and advanced electronics testing. Station solar array panels, Earth’s horizon and the blackness of space provide the backdrop for the scene. > Read More: Largest Flock of Earth-Imaging Satellites Launch into Orbit From Space Station Image Credit: NASA
BRIDGESTONE CORP. TO PAY $425 MILLION FINE FOR ROLE IN AUTO PARTS PRICE FIXING CONSPIRACY
FROM: U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
BRIDGESTONE CORP. AGREES TO PLEAD GUILTY TO PRICE FIXING ON AUTOMOBILE PARTS INSTALLED IN U.S. CARS
Company Agrees to Pay $425 Million Criminal Fine
WASHINGTON — Bridgestone Corp., a Tokyo, Japan-based company, has agreed to plead guilty and to pay a $425 million criminal fine for its role in a conspiracy to fix prices of automotive anti-vibration rubber parts installed in cars sold in the United States and elsewhere, the Department of Justice announced today.
According to a one-count felony charge filed today in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio in Toledo, Bridgestone engaged in a conspiracy to allocate sales of, to rig bids for and to fix, raise and maintain the prices of automotive anti-vibration rubber parts it sold to Toyota Motor Corp., Nissan Motor Corp., Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., Suzuki Motor Corp., Isuzu Motors Ltd. and certain of their subsidiaries, affiliates and suppliers, in the United States and elsewhere. In addition to the criminal fine, Bridgestone also has agreed to cooperate with the department’s ongoing auto parts investigations. The plea agreement is subject to court approval.
In October 2011, Bridgestone pleaded guilty and paid a $28 million fine for price-fixing and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act violations in the marine hose industry, but did not disclose at the time of the plea that it had also participated in the anti-vibration rubber parts conspiracy. Bridgestone’s failure to disclose this conspiracy was a factor in determining the $425 million fine.
“The Antitrust Division will take a hard line when repeat offenders fail to disclose additional anticompetitive behavior,” said Brent Snyder, Deputy Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division’s criminal enforcement program. “Today’s significant fine reaffirms the division’s commitment to holding companies accountable for conduct that harms U.S. consumers.”
According to the charges, Bridgestone and its co-conspirators carried out the conspiracy through meetings and conversations in which they discussed and agreed upon bids, prices and allocating sales of certain automotive anti-vibration rubber products. After exchanging this information with its co-conspirators, Bridgestone submitted bids and prices in accordance with those agreements and sold and accepted payments for automotive anti-vibration rubber parts at collusive and noncompetitive prices. Bridgestone’s involvement in the conspiracy to fix prices of anti-vibration rubber parts lasted from at least January 2001 until at least December 2008.
“The Cleveland Division of the FBI is committed to aggressively investigating price-fixing and other antitrust violations,” said Special Agent in Charge Stephen D. Anthony. “The illegal activity in this case threatened the basic tenet of free competition. We are pleased with the acceptance of responsibility along with the significant penalty which will be paid by Bridgestone for this conspiracy to fix prices. Together with our partners in the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, we will continue to combat illegal practices which threaten consumers across the United States.”
Bridgestone manufactures and sells a variety of automotive parts, including anti-vibration rubber parts, which are comprised primarily of rubber and metal, and are installed in suspension systems and engine mounts as well as other parts of an automobile. They are installed in automobiles for the purpose of reducing road and engine vibration.
Including Bridgestone, 26 companies have pleaded guilty or agreed to plead guilty in the department’s ongoing investigation into price fixing and bid rigging in the automotive parts industry. The companies have agreed to pay a total of more than $2 billion in criminal fines. Additionally, 28 individuals have been charged.
Bridgestone is charged with price fixing in violation of the Sherman Act, which carries maximum penalties of a $100 million criminal fine for corporations. The maximum fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by the victims of the crime, if either of those amounts is greater than the statutory maximum fine.
Today’s prosecution is the result of an ongoing federal antitrust investigation into price fixing, bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the automotive parts industry, which is being conducted by each of the Antitrust Division’s criminal enforcement sections and the FBI. Today’s charge was brought by the Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office and the FBI’s Cleveland Field Office, with the assistance of the FBI headquarters’ International Corruption Unit and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio.
U.S. AND 26 OTHER NATIONS COMMIT TO GLOBAL HEALTH SECURITY AGENDA GOALS
FROM: U.S. HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES DEPARTMENT
Nations Commit to Accelerating Progress against Infectious Disease Threats
The United States joins 26 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), to accelerate progress toward a world safe and secure from the threat of infectious disease, and committing to the goals of the Global Health Security Agenda.
“Global health security is a shared responsibility; no one country can achieve it alone,” Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said. “In the coming months, we will welcome other nations to join the United States and the 26 other countries gathered here in Washington and in Geneva, as we work to close the gaps in our ability to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats.”
Over the next five years the United States plans to work with at least 30 partner countries (containing at least 4 billion people) to prevent, detect and effectively respond to infectious disease threats, whether naturally occurring or caused by accidental or intentional releases of dangerous pathogens.
“While we have made great progress in fighting and treating diseases, biological threats can emerge anywhere, travel quickly, and take lives,” said Lisa Monaco, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. “The recent outbreaks of H7N9 influenza and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome are reminders of the need to step up our efforts as a global community. The Global Health Security Agenda is about accelerating progress toward a world safe and secure from infectious disease threats.”
Later this year, the White House will host an event bringing together nations who are committed to protecting the world from infectious disease threats to review progress and chart the way forward on building a global system for preventing, detecting, and responding to such threats.
“The United States and the world can and must do more to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks as early and as effectively as possible,” CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said. “CDC conducted two global health security demonstration projects last year in partnership with Vietnam and Uganda to strengthen laboratory systems, develop strong public health emergency operations centers, and create real-time data sharing in health emergencies. CDC is committed to replicate the successes in these two projects in ten additional countries this year.”
In FY 2014, CDC and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency have jointly committed to accelerate progress on global health security by co-developing a strategy and devoting $40 million toward activities focusing on advancing the U.S. government's GHS objectives in ten nations.
The FY 2015 President’s Budget will include an increase of $45 million within CDC to prevent avoidable catastrophes, detect threats early, and mobilize effective responses to contain outbreaks. The increase also would allow CDC to partner with up to ten countries in 2015 to begin implementation and accelerate successful CDC efforts including training of field epidemiologists, developing new diagnostic tests, building capacities to detect new pathogens, building public health emergency management capacity, and supporting outbreak responses.
Secretary Sebelius, Ms. Monaco and Dr. Frieden were joined at the launch meeting by representatives in Washington and Geneva from 26 other countries, three international organizations, and by other U.S. government officials, including Deputy Secretary of State Heather Higginbottom, Acting Deputy Secretary of Defense Christine Fox, and Department of Agriculture Chief Veterinary Officer John Clifford, whose agencies will lead efforts to fulfill the U.S. government commitment to global health security.
“Efforts to prevent deadly outbreaks strengthen geopolitical stability and security, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “None of us, not the public health, security or agriculture sectors can accomplish global health security on our own—it is obvious that an interdisciplinary approach is the best way to make progress.”
HHS, DoS, USDA, and DoD will work closely with global partners to build countries’ global health security capacities in areas such as surveillance, detection and response in order to slow the spread of antimicrobial resistance, establish national biosecurity systems, reduce zoonotic disease transmission, increase routine immunization, establish and strengthen national infectious disease surveillance and laboratory systems, and develop public health electronic reporting systems and emergency operations centers.
“The Global Health Security Agenda set forth today establishes a roadmap for progress that ultimately depends on collaboration between the health and security communities,” said Acting Deputy Defense Secretary Fox. “The Department of Defense is committed to continuing our work, together with our national and international partners, to strengthen global health security.”
Countries joining the United States to meet the Global Health Security goals at today’s launch were Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom, and, Vietnam.
Nations Commit to Accelerating Progress against Infectious Disease Threats
The United States joins 26 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE), to accelerate progress toward a world safe and secure from the threat of infectious disease, and committing to the goals of the Global Health Security Agenda.
“Global health security is a shared responsibility; no one country can achieve it alone,” Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said. “In the coming months, we will welcome other nations to join the United States and the 26 other countries gathered here in Washington and in Geneva, as we work to close the gaps in our ability to prevent, detect, and respond to infectious disease threats.”
Over the next five years the United States plans to work with at least 30 partner countries (containing at least 4 billion people) to prevent, detect and effectively respond to infectious disease threats, whether naturally occurring or caused by accidental or intentional releases of dangerous pathogens.
“While we have made great progress in fighting and treating diseases, biological threats can emerge anywhere, travel quickly, and take lives,” said Lisa Monaco, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism. “The recent outbreaks of H7N9 influenza and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome are reminders of the need to step up our efforts as a global community. The Global Health Security Agenda is about accelerating progress toward a world safe and secure from infectious disease threats.”
Later this year, the White House will host an event bringing together nations who are committed to protecting the world from infectious disease threats to review progress and chart the way forward on building a global system for preventing, detecting, and responding to such threats.
“The United States and the world can and must do more to prevent, detect, and respond to outbreaks as early and as effectively as possible,” CDC Director Dr. Tom Frieden said. “CDC conducted two global health security demonstration projects last year in partnership with Vietnam and Uganda to strengthen laboratory systems, develop strong public health emergency operations centers, and create real-time data sharing in health emergencies. CDC is committed to replicate the successes in these two projects in ten additional countries this year.”
In FY 2014, CDC and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency have jointly committed to accelerate progress on global health security by co-developing a strategy and devoting $40 million toward activities focusing on advancing the U.S. government's GHS objectives in ten nations.
The FY 2015 President’s Budget will include an increase of $45 million within CDC to prevent avoidable catastrophes, detect threats early, and mobilize effective responses to contain outbreaks. The increase also would allow CDC to partner with up to ten countries in 2015 to begin implementation and accelerate successful CDC efforts including training of field epidemiologists, developing new diagnostic tests, building capacities to detect new pathogens, building public health emergency management capacity, and supporting outbreak responses.
Secretary Sebelius, Ms. Monaco and Dr. Frieden were joined at the launch meeting by representatives in Washington and Geneva from 26 other countries, three international organizations, and by other U.S. government officials, including Deputy Secretary of State Heather Higginbottom, Acting Deputy Secretary of Defense Christine Fox, and Department of Agriculture Chief Veterinary Officer John Clifford, whose agencies will lead efforts to fulfill the U.S. government commitment to global health security.
“Efforts to prevent deadly outbreaks strengthen geopolitical stability and security, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said. “None of us, not the public health, security or agriculture sectors can accomplish global health security on our own—it is obvious that an interdisciplinary approach is the best way to make progress.”
HHS, DoS, USDA, and DoD will work closely with global partners to build countries’ global health security capacities in areas such as surveillance, detection and response in order to slow the spread of antimicrobial resistance, establish national biosecurity systems, reduce zoonotic disease transmission, increase routine immunization, establish and strengthen national infectious disease surveillance and laboratory systems, and develop public health electronic reporting systems and emergency operations centers.
“The Global Health Security Agenda set forth today establishes a roadmap for progress that ultimately depends on collaboration between the health and security communities,” said Acting Deputy Defense Secretary Fox. “The Department of Defense is committed to continuing our work, together with our national and international partners, to strengthen global health security.”
Countries joining the United States to meet the Global Health Security goals at today’s launch were Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Republic of Korea, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, Uganda, United Kingdom, and, Vietnam.
REMARKS BY SECRETARY OF STATE KERRY AND REPUBLIC OF KOREA FOREIGN MINISTER BYUNG-SE
FROM: STATE DEPARTMENT
Remarks With Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se
Press Availability
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Seoul, South Korea
February 13, 2014
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Ladies and gentlemen, we are now ready to begin the press conference with Minister Yun Byung-se and Secretary John Kerry. I am the spokesperson of MOFA. My name is Cho Tai-young. For today’s press conference, we’ll begin with an opening statement and then we will take questions. First we’ll listen to the opening statement of Minister Yun.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Let me begin by extending my warm welcome to Secretary Kerry to Korea. Secretary Kerry is a great partner with whom I have always had productive discussions. Today, he even brought us the good news of President Obama’s upcoming visit to Korea.
President Park’s successful visit to the U.S. in May last year and the following talks between the two leaders; Vice President Biden’s visit to Korea last December; five rounds of talks between Secretary Kerry and me; and President Obama’s upcoming visit to Korea in April. These series of senior-level exchanges between Korea and the U.S. attest to the highest state of our alliance. I must say, President Obama’s upcoming visit comes at a very timely moment, given the recent developments on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.
As you are well aware, I met Secretary Kerry in Washington, DC last month, and we agreed to intensify our consultations to explore our policy options in light of the North Korean situation. In this regard, the two countries have continued to engage in high-level consultations, including Deputy Secretary Burns’s visit to Seoul earlier this year. Today’s meeting is part of such ongoing consultations. Secretary Kerry and I reaffirm that the two countries stand fully prepared against any potential situation, given the mixed signals from North Korea as it tries to engage in a charm offensive, even as it continues its nuclear development and threats of provocation.
In my talks with Secretary Kerry, I also had the opportunity to explain the recent inter-Korean agreement to hold a family reunion event as well as the outcomes of yesterday’s high-level meeting between the two Koreas.
Regarding the North Korean nuclear issue, we took note that meaningful progress can be made when the international community stands united, as seen recently in another part of the world. We share the view that a principled and effective two-track approach of pressure and dialogue is necessary. In this regard, based on firm R.O.K.-U.S. collaboration, we will make greater efforts with China and other countries to achieve substantial denuclearization of North Korea.
Secretary Kerry and I also discussed the future of the Korean Peninsula. I am also always mindful of President Park’s consistent foreign policy, which aims at the happiness of all people on the Korean Peninsula, as well as President Obama’s remarks during the speech in his 2012 visit to Korea. The currents of history cannot be held back forever. The deep longing for freedom and dignity will not go away, which emphasizes the inevitable nature of Korea’s reunification. Recalling our leaders’ thoughts, I laid out my government’s position on the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. Today, Secretary Kerry said it was very timely that President Park highlighted the importance of the debate on the future of the Peninsula through her reunification as a huge bonanza statement.
Secretary Kerry also reaffirmed the U.S. support for the reunification of Korea, as stated in the joint declaration of the 60th anniversary of the alliance. We shared the view that the future will change North Korea if it does not change itself, and we agreed to consolidate our strategic consultations regarding the sustainable peace and reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
Going beyond these issues, we shared the view that it is critical for the countries in the region to improve bilateral relations among one another in order to mitigate the aggravating Asian paradox. In this regard, I appreciated the constructive efforts of the U.S. to improve the relationships among the countries in the region, and to this end I pointed out that countries should refrain from regressive remarks that undermine the trust of their neighbors.
We noted the passing of the bill on the extension of the R.O.K.-U.S. Nuclear Cooperation Agreement at the U.S. Congress as well as the smooth conclusion of the R.O.K.-U.S. defense burden-sharing negotiations. We agreed to continue to work together on important bilateral issues such as the revision of the R.O.K.-U.S. Nuclear Cooperation Agreement and the transition of wartime operational control.
We will work based on the spirit of alliance to find mutually satisfactory solutions. We also exchanged our views on the ways to promote bilateral economic cooperation, including the implementation of the KORUS FTA and R.O.K.’s participation in the TPP. As the mutual visits between Secretary Kerry and me in April last year led to the successful visit of President Park, I have high expectations that our mutual visits in the early weeks of the new year will lead to the successful visit of President Obama in April, ultimately contributing to the further development of the R.O.K.-U.S. comprehensive, strategic alliance.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next, Secretary Kerry, you have the floor.
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, thank you very much, Minister Yun, my friend, Byung-se. I appreciate very, very much the generous welcome, and I appreciate my in-depth, comprehensive discussion that I just had with President Park. And I especially thank both President Park and Minister Yun for a very warm and generous welcome, as well as for a very productive discussion. It’s a great pleasure for me to be back in Seoul.
And while it’s interesting – both of us are focused on the current Olympics, and we are both rooting for our home teams, but it is noteworthy that preparations are already underway for PyeongChang in 2018. It shows you how much work has to be done and how the process really never stops.
This is my fifth trip to Asia as the Secretary of State, and I want to confirm that the United States rebalance to the Asia Pacific remains a top priority for the Obama Administration. Every day, at the President’s direction, we are directing more diplomatic, more economic and more military resources to help advance the goals that we share with our partners throughout this region.
The U.S.-Republic of Korea alliance is crucial to that rebalance. And our relationship is without question the lynchpin of stability and of security in Northeast Asia. That’s why President Obama hosted President Park for a productive set of meetings last year, and that’s why, as Minister Yun just noted, the President will visit Seoul for the fourth time this April. And that is why Foreign Minister Yun was also the first foreign minister that I hosted in the new year, and that is why I am here today, on the first stop in my visit to Asia in 2014. This is an important moment. There are vital issues in the region, and this is a central relationship to resolving any of those issues.
More than six decades ago, our alliance was forged on the battlefield, and the United States remains unwavering in our commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea. Last month, the United States and the Republic of Korea successfully concluded negotiations funding the U.S. military presence on the Korean Peninsula. A special measures agreement that we signed will help ensure our military alliance is ready and able to deter or defend against North Korean aggression, should that occur. We are in lockstep with the Republic of Korea when it comes to our efforts to address the threat posed by North Korea – posed by their nuclear weapons and the ballistic missile programs.
We have yet to see evidence that North Korea is prepared to meet its obligations and negotiate the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Let me be clear: The United States will not accept North Korea as a nuclear-armed state. We will not accept talks for the sake of talks. And the D.P.R.K. must show that it will negotiate and live up to its commitments regarding denuclearization.
In both diplomatic and security terms, close, trilateral cooperation among Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo remains essential. And, of course, China has an important role to play. Tomorrow, I will go to Beijing to discuss ways that we may be able to intensify our collective efforts. At the same time, progress in inter-Korean relations is important – not only to the Korean people, but also to the United States and to the world.
So we very much welcome President Park’s efforts to build trust, which I believe can lead to improvements in North Korea’s human rights situation and ultimately lay the groundwork for peaceful reunification of the Peninsula. We congratulate President Park for her discussions of this, for her willingness to express a vision about it, and particularly for her declarations regarding the possibilities of economic bonanza and other benefits that could come from that vision.
U.S.-Republic of Korea security cooperation extends, obviously, well beyond Northeast Asia. Close cooperation on both regional and global security challenges is a key pillar of the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship. We have worked together and with international partners in every corner of the globe. For years now, U.S. and South Korean soldiers have served side by side in Afghanistan, and today, the Republic of Korea is a major donor to Afghanistan’s reconstruction and stabilization efforts. The Republic of Korea has also contributed to the international efforts to ease the humanitarian suffering in Syria, and also to deal with the problem of refugees in the region.
Let me underscore that the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship today is much more than a military alliance. It is a global partnership that is growing stronger every year. In the nearly two years since the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement came into force, our bilateral trade has grown to more than $100 billion annually. Today, the Republic of Korea is our sixth-largest trading partner, and there is room, obviously, for even more growth, which we look forward to. This afternoon, we discussed the need to work together to ensure that the KORUS commitments are fully implemented so that job growth and other benefits for both of our peoples can be fully realized.
The strong economic bond that we share really is rooted in the strong bonds among our peoples. Today, more than 1.7 million Korean Americans live in the United States, and nearly 71,000 South Korean students are studying on our shores. For per capita, that is more than any other major economy in the world. And the number of American students here in places like Seoul and Busan continues to rise every year.
So, as we stand here tonight, we can safely say that the United States and the Republic of Korea are strong allies growing stronger; we are partners strengthening the partnership; and we are friends strengthening our friendship.
Last year, we celebrated the 60th year of this extraordinary relationship and all of the transformation that has come with it. This year marks the first year of the next 60. We hope that 2014 and the years that follow will bring about greater prosperity, greater opportunity, stability, and ultimately peace, for our nations and for all of our neighbors.
Thank you all for the chance to share a few words with you, and I look forward to any questions.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next we would like to open the floor to questions. Since we don’t have too much time, I would like to ask you to keep your questions brief. First, from YTN.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Yes, my name is Kimi Joon. I’m from YTN. I would like to ask a question about North Korea. You said that progress is very important. Yesterday, for the first time in seven years, there was a high-level meeting. And at the meeting, North Korea said that – demanded that the military exercises be postponed until after the family reunions. And if the military exercises go on as planned, do you think that this might impact the reunions, family reunions? So I would like to know your reaction.
And for the nuclear issue, this is not something that should be discussed between the two Koreas. You said this could be translated to mean that it should be discussed within the Six-Party Talks or between Korea – North Korea and the U.S. So first Secretary Kerry, and then Minister Yun, please.
SECRETARY KERRY: Yeah, I’m not sure that I understand the second question on the nuclear issue. Can you restate that?
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Regarding the nuclear issue, yesterday, during the high-level meeting, they said – North Korea said that this shouldn’t be discussed between South and North. So regarding nuclear – denuclearization, it could mean that North Korea wants to talk directly with the U.S. So what is your position?
SECRETARY KERRY: We’re – our – well, let me be clear, first of all, on the reunification issue. The United States does not believe that it is appropriate to link a humanitarian issue such as reunification with any other issue. And since the exercises are exercises that are not changed – not bigger, not different, occurring at exactly the same time as they have occurred every year, in the same manner that they have occurred as a matter of readiness between the United States and the Republic of Korea – there is no legitimate excuse for linking the two.
The family reunification is a matter of human rights. It’s a matter of decency. It’s a matter of living up to normal standards of human behavior and of human – of shared values and standards in the international community. And we would urge a complete separation of these two and no use of one as an excuse to somehow condition the other.
With respect to the Six-Party Talks versus individual talks, nuclear talks, the United States position has not changed. It is clear. We are in full agreement with President Park’s stance on North Korea. Today we reaffirm our commitment to a common goal, which is the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner. And we are committed to going to talks only if there is a clarity with respect to the steps that need to be taken for denuclearization by the North. We are not in favor of talks for the sake of talks. We’ve been through that exercise previously. We want to know that this is real. And it’s – frankly, the responsibility is on North Korea to take meaningful actions to demonstrate that denuclearization is real. And it’s time for the North to choose the path of peace and to refrain from provocations and/or using excuses to avoid the responsibility that they bear.
So we are not engaged in back-channel efforts to have face-to-face talks or bilateral talks. We are committed to a process, together with our allies and friends in this effort, to guarantee that when and if we get back to talks those talks are meaningful.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (In Korean. No interpretation.)
MS. PSAKI: The next question will be from William Wan of The Washington Post.
QUESTION: Hi. I wanted to ask about the rift between our allies. How can U.S. and Korea present a united front and coordinated Asia policy when our two biggest allies – the U.S. allies in Asia, Japan and South Korea, are at each other’s throats? And what practical actual steps can you take, on the part of Secretary Kerry, and do you intend to take, on the part of Minister Yun, to bring those two sides together?
SECRETARY KERRY: Look, there is no question but that positive relations between Japan and its neighbors are in the best interests of the United States, the region, and the two countries themselves. That’s our belief. And we respect the fact that the Republic of Korea and Japan are both developed free-market economies that share values. They share a robust economic relationship, and they also share with us compelling strategic interests. So while the United States obviously has a strong interest in the relationship and in the security component of the relationship, it’s up to Japan and the Republic of Korea to put history behind them and move the relationship forward. And it is critical at the same time that we maintain robust trilateral cooperation, particularly in the face of North Korea’s nuclear threat.
So we urge our friends in Japan and in North Korea – in North Korea and South Korea – excuse me, in the Republic of Korea – we urge both of them to work with us together to find a way forward to help resolve these deeply felt historic differences that still have meaning today. And we respect the meaning that they still have today. We understand the meaning that they still have today.
So I made this case to Foreign Minister Kishida last week when he visited Washington, and again – we talked about it today with President Park and with Foreign Minister Yun. So we will continue – the United States will continue, I will personally continue to encourage both allies to find mutually acceptable approaches to legacy issues from the past and find ways to enhance bilateral and trilateral cooperation that will define the future. We believe it is possible to do both. And we’re going to work very hard, obviously, over the course of the next weeks and months to do so.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) I would just like to add (inaudible) regarding the relationship between Korea and Japan. Of course, with the new government we have made a lot of efforts to stabilize the relationship between Korea and Japan. But unfortunately, as the international society has seen, during the past few months, some Japanese political leaders have made a lot of historically incorrect remarks. And so these revisionist – historically revisionist remarks, as long as they last, till then it will be difficult to build trust between our two countries. And so these leaders must look at history as it is, and they must be very sincere. And we are always willing to dialogue with them.
And so they must make the efforts to create an environment conducive to dialogue. International society these days regarding the sexual slavery as well as the view on history is a matter of concern for international society. So they must listen to these concerns and must take the appropriate measures to correct the situation. This must be the foundation for the improved Korean-Japanese relations.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next from (inaudible).
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Yes, my name is (inaudible). I would first of all like to ask Secretary Kerry regarding the Korea-Japanese relationship, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Chuck Hagel, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said that the Senkaku Islands are part of the defense treaty. But does the Dokdo – are the Dokdo Islands also part of the defense treaty? And also, last October, there were some tensions and when the Prime Minister Abe visited the Shinto shrine, so this seemed to negate history. So how do you evaluate such actions by the prime minister of Japan? And when Barack Obama visits Japan and Korea, do you think that he will try to mediate the relations between Korea and Japan?
And to Minister Yun, there have been a lot of reports about unofficial contacts with Japan, so – and there’s a lot – there are a lot of talks that this is not encouraging for the tripartite relations. So what are your comments?
SECRETARY KERRY: So three questions there, I think. On the Senkaku Islands, I agree with the statement of Secretary Clinton and I agree with the statement of Secretary Hagel. And that is the position of the United States with respect to those islands.
With respect to the prime minister’s visit, we’ve spoken out. I think that we made clear that we had a difference of opinion with respect to the judgment about the visit, and that was made clear at the time. And I don't think we need to dwell on it now.
Which brings me to the essence of your question, which is this notion of an effort to mediate between the parties and will President Obama do that. Frankly, we hope that this issue will not be outstanding in a way that requires the President to do that. We need to be doing it now. We don’t want to wait until President Obama is here, obviously, to get moving in a direction that helps to deal with this. So as I said earlier, I’ve already been engaged with Foreign Minister Kishida. I was engaged today with President Park and with Foreign Minister Yun. And I will continue, together with our Ambassador, with the Foreign Minister, with our Assistant Secretary of State Mr. Russel, and others – we will be engaged in this over the next days and weeks. And our hope is that it will be possible to try to find a way forward.
But we also have, frankly, issues of enormous current pressing concern that deal with security and that are relevant in terms of today, not in terms of history. And it is vital for us to be able to continue to stay focused on the high stakes, in terms of everybody’s lives right now, of those issues. And we intend to continue to make certain that we’re paying adequate attention to those priorities, even as we deal with this legitimate concern about the past. And we will do so.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Yes, so regarding contacts between North Korea and Japan, recently there have been quite a lot of reports about such contacts. But Japan has not officially said anything about these reports, and so I myself am not in a position to talk about that.
But if there are such contacts, then I think that since they are part of the Six-Party Talks, I think that this might impact the talks between the other members of the Six-Party Talks, and I don't think it will be very helpful or conducive for those – for the talks.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) One point that I would like to ask again to Secretary Kerry regarding the defense treaty or for the Dokdo Islands, do you believe that it’s part of the defense treaty between Korea and the U.S.?
SECRETARY KERRY: The – which island? I’m sorry. I can’t hear you.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) The Dokdo Islands. In the mutual defense treaty between Korea and the U.S., how do you view Dokdo Islands?
SECRETARY KERRY: I think we have answered that previously, and we have affirmed that it is.
MS. PSAKI: The final question will be from Michael Gordon of The New York Times.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, last April during a visit to Beijing, you sought China’s cooperation in persuading North Korea to commit itself to denuclearization. But since then, as you’ve noted, North Korea’s nuclear program has continued to advance and economic ties between China and the North continue to be substantial. Now almost a year later, you’re headed back to Beijing to make the same appeal again. What specifically do you want the Chinese leadership to do with regard to North Korea? And why realistically should one expect the Chinese leadership to put sufficient pressure on North Korea to reverse course on the nuclear front? Why would one expect China to elevate its concerns about the nuclear issues over its historic focus on stability, since that really didn’t occur over the past year? And if that isn’t going to happen, should the Obama Administration review an adjusted strategy?
And then a question for both, for the Minister and Mr. Secretary Kerry: Pertaining to developments in North Korea, do you see the execution of Kim Jong-un’s uncle as a indication that Kim Jong-un is consolidating power or as an indication of instability in the regime? Thank you.
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, Michael, you are correct in that I did raise it when I was there before. And I’m obviously going to be talking about it again. But I don't think it is correct to make an assumption that the situation is anywhere near what it was when I came here last year. When I came here last year, I arrived, I think, on a weekend, during which time North Korea was still publicly rattling the saber, making threats, and poised to test. And we were in a very tense moment where there had been a series of tests, of provocations. The United States had responded with a deployment of Aegis destroyer and a THAAD system to Guam. And there was a sense of potential conflict in the air of immediacy. And with that visit to China and China’s assumption of some initial steps, which they did take, that quieted down. That changed, and there has been a change over the course of this last year.
Now, notwithstanding that change, and not withstanding real steps that China has taken, we still find a reluctant North Korea, an unwilling North Korea, a stubbornly resistant North Korea to taking the steps that are necessary to move towards denuclearization and have real talks about the future. The fact is, the United States and China agree on the fundamental importance of a denuclearized North Korea. There is no question of that.
But China has a unique and critical role that it can play due to its economic, its geographic, its political, and its historical, cultural ties with North Korea. No country has a greater potential to influence North Korea’s behavior than China, given their extensive trading relationship with the North. As we know, all of the refined fuel that goes into move every automobile and every airplane in North Korea comes from China. All of the fundamental rudimentary banking structure that the North has with the world passes through China. Significant trade and assistance goes from China to North Korea.
So China has enormous ability to be able to have an impact here, and tomorrow my instructions from President Obama are to sit with the Chinese leadership and make the case that we cannot wait till the North has either gone so much further in its program that it’s even more complicated to deal with, or created a provocation that incites a response that creates even greater problems of security. So our belief is that China can do more now to urge North Korea to begin taking action to come into compliance with its international obligations. And I will encourage China to use all of the means at its disposal to do so.
Now, I want to make it clear: China has responded. China has done positive things. China is very concerned about what has happened with Chang Sung-taek and the purge. I think there are leaders in China deeply upset by the reluctance of Kim Jong-un to receive an envoy and to engage in serious dialogue, and the reluctance even to respond to very clear urgent needs to create stability on the peninsula and in the region that would come from a legitimate denuclearization effort.
So there is more that China can do. But even as I say that, this is not just about what China does, this is about what all of the Six-Party partners are prepared to do in order to try to move this issue once and for all. So we are hopeful that we can – as we did with Iran sanctions and as we have in other efforts – ratchet up the effort at this point in time, as appropriate, to the reluctance of the North to yet respond adequately.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Yes, as I mentioned in my opening statement, recently, as we saw in Iran, there is consolidation regarding the positions of the international society and that position will help in resolving the North Korean nuclear issue. So I believe that coordination and cooperation in the international society is very important. So Korea and the U.S., together with China, will work together. And we are doing so right now for the denuclearization.
As was mentioned earlier, we are against additional nuclear tests and we are taking several steps, and this has been evaluated constantly in international society. So we will continue to work so that we will have true denuclearization in North Korea. And we will, on the one hand, have dialogue, and also at the same time we will work with the UNSC, the UN Security Council, to have resolutions against and sanctions against North Korea. And so we will work with a two-track strategy and in that way we hope that we will be effective and that we will have denuclearization of North Korea. And we must not have talks for talks’ sake. This is a position that I am keeping.
Regarding the execution of Chang Sung-taek, whether it’s consolidation or instability of the North Korean regime, well, this can be viewed from various aspects. During the past two years in North Korea there have been a lot of changes in the military of North Korea. And so in the short term, it may appear to mean control of the military. But to what extent this will have momentum, I don't think that anybody can say. But the public execution of the Chang Sung-taek, the way that it is viewed by countries around North Korea, leans towards instability. So the instability is greater than at any other time in the past. That’s the general view of what is happening in North Korea. And so in the future, how this will impact its foreign affairs, how it will impact its relations with other country, not only with the South Korea but also with the U.S., this is something that we must work on and act accordingly.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) This will conclude the joint press conference of the R.O.K., U.S. foreign ministers. Thank you, the two ministers, for your very precise answers to the questions. Thank you.
Remarks With Republic of Korea Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se
Press Availability
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Seoul, South Korea
February 13, 2014
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Ladies and gentlemen, we are now ready to begin the press conference with Minister Yun Byung-se and Secretary John Kerry. I am the spokesperson of MOFA. My name is Cho Tai-young. For today’s press conference, we’ll begin with an opening statement and then we will take questions. First we’ll listen to the opening statement of Minister Yun.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Let me begin by extending my warm welcome to Secretary Kerry to Korea. Secretary Kerry is a great partner with whom I have always had productive discussions. Today, he even brought us the good news of President Obama’s upcoming visit to Korea.
President Park’s successful visit to the U.S. in May last year and the following talks between the two leaders; Vice President Biden’s visit to Korea last December; five rounds of talks between Secretary Kerry and me; and President Obama’s upcoming visit to Korea in April. These series of senior-level exchanges between Korea and the U.S. attest to the highest state of our alliance. I must say, President Obama’s upcoming visit comes at a very timely moment, given the recent developments on the Korean Peninsula and in the region.
As you are well aware, I met Secretary Kerry in Washington, DC last month, and we agreed to intensify our consultations to explore our policy options in light of the North Korean situation. In this regard, the two countries have continued to engage in high-level consultations, including Deputy Secretary Burns’s visit to Seoul earlier this year. Today’s meeting is part of such ongoing consultations. Secretary Kerry and I reaffirm that the two countries stand fully prepared against any potential situation, given the mixed signals from North Korea as it tries to engage in a charm offensive, even as it continues its nuclear development and threats of provocation.
In my talks with Secretary Kerry, I also had the opportunity to explain the recent inter-Korean agreement to hold a family reunion event as well as the outcomes of yesterday’s high-level meeting between the two Koreas.
Regarding the North Korean nuclear issue, we took note that meaningful progress can be made when the international community stands united, as seen recently in another part of the world. We share the view that a principled and effective two-track approach of pressure and dialogue is necessary. In this regard, based on firm R.O.K.-U.S. collaboration, we will make greater efforts with China and other countries to achieve substantial denuclearization of North Korea.
Secretary Kerry and I also discussed the future of the Korean Peninsula. I am also always mindful of President Park’s consistent foreign policy, which aims at the happiness of all people on the Korean Peninsula, as well as President Obama’s remarks during the speech in his 2012 visit to Korea. The currents of history cannot be held back forever. The deep longing for freedom and dignity will not go away, which emphasizes the inevitable nature of Korea’s reunification. Recalling our leaders’ thoughts, I laid out my government’s position on the peaceful reunification of the Korean Peninsula. Today, Secretary Kerry said it was very timely that President Park highlighted the importance of the debate on the future of the Peninsula through her reunification as a huge bonanza statement.
Secretary Kerry also reaffirmed the U.S. support for the reunification of Korea, as stated in the joint declaration of the 60th anniversary of the alliance. We shared the view that the future will change North Korea if it does not change itself, and we agreed to consolidate our strategic consultations regarding the sustainable peace and reunification of the Korean Peninsula.
Going beyond these issues, we shared the view that it is critical for the countries in the region to improve bilateral relations among one another in order to mitigate the aggravating Asian paradox. In this regard, I appreciated the constructive efforts of the U.S. to improve the relationships among the countries in the region, and to this end I pointed out that countries should refrain from regressive remarks that undermine the trust of their neighbors.
We noted the passing of the bill on the extension of the R.O.K.-U.S. Nuclear Cooperation Agreement at the U.S. Congress as well as the smooth conclusion of the R.O.K.-U.S. defense burden-sharing negotiations. We agreed to continue to work together on important bilateral issues such as the revision of the R.O.K.-U.S. Nuclear Cooperation Agreement and the transition of wartime operational control.
We will work based on the spirit of alliance to find mutually satisfactory solutions. We also exchanged our views on the ways to promote bilateral economic cooperation, including the implementation of the KORUS FTA and R.O.K.’s participation in the TPP. As the mutual visits between Secretary Kerry and me in April last year led to the successful visit of President Park, I have high expectations that our mutual visits in the early weeks of the new year will lead to the successful visit of President Obama in April, ultimately contributing to the further development of the R.O.K.-U.S. comprehensive, strategic alliance.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next, Secretary Kerry, you have the floor.
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, thank you very much, Minister Yun, my friend, Byung-se. I appreciate very, very much the generous welcome, and I appreciate my in-depth, comprehensive discussion that I just had with President Park. And I especially thank both President Park and Minister Yun for a very warm and generous welcome, as well as for a very productive discussion. It’s a great pleasure for me to be back in Seoul.
And while it’s interesting – both of us are focused on the current Olympics, and we are both rooting for our home teams, but it is noteworthy that preparations are already underway for PyeongChang in 2018. It shows you how much work has to be done and how the process really never stops.
This is my fifth trip to Asia as the Secretary of State, and I want to confirm that the United States rebalance to the Asia Pacific remains a top priority for the Obama Administration. Every day, at the President’s direction, we are directing more diplomatic, more economic and more military resources to help advance the goals that we share with our partners throughout this region.
The U.S.-Republic of Korea alliance is crucial to that rebalance. And our relationship is without question the lynchpin of stability and of security in Northeast Asia. That’s why President Obama hosted President Park for a productive set of meetings last year, and that’s why, as Minister Yun just noted, the President will visit Seoul for the fourth time this April. And that is why Foreign Minister Yun was also the first foreign minister that I hosted in the new year, and that is why I am here today, on the first stop in my visit to Asia in 2014. This is an important moment. There are vital issues in the region, and this is a central relationship to resolving any of those issues.
More than six decades ago, our alliance was forged on the battlefield, and the United States remains unwavering in our commitment to the defense of the Republic of Korea. Last month, the United States and the Republic of Korea successfully concluded negotiations funding the U.S. military presence on the Korean Peninsula. A special measures agreement that we signed will help ensure our military alliance is ready and able to deter or defend against North Korean aggression, should that occur. We are in lockstep with the Republic of Korea when it comes to our efforts to address the threat posed by North Korea – posed by their nuclear weapons and the ballistic missile programs.
We have yet to see evidence that North Korea is prepared to meet its obligations and negotiate the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula. Let me be clear: The United States will not accept North Korea as a nuclear-armed state. We will not accept talks for the sake of talks. And the D.P.R.K. must show that it will negotiate and live up to its commitments regarding denuclearization.
In both diplomatic and security terms, close, trilateral cooperation among Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo remains essential. And, of course, China has an important role to play. Tomorrow, I will go to Beijing to discuss ways that we may be able to intensify our collective efforts. At the same time, progress in inter-Korean relations is important – not only to the Korean people, but also to the United States and to the world.
So we very much welcome President Park’s efforts to build trust, which I believe can lead to improvements in North Korea’s human rights situation and ultimately lay the groundwork for peaceful reunification of the Peninsula. We congratulate President Park for her discussions of this, for her willingness to express a vision about it, and particularly for her declarations regarding the possibilities of economic bonanza and other benefits that could come from that vision.
U.S.-Republic of Korea security cooperation extends, obviously, well beyond Northeast Asia. Close cooperation on both regional and global security challenges is a key pillar of the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship. We have worked together and with international partners in every corner of the globe. For years now, U.S. and South Korean soldiers have served side by side in Afghanistan, and today, the Republic of Korea is a major donor to Afghanistan’s reconstruction and stabilization efforts. The Republic of Korea has also contributed to the international efforts to ease the humanitarian suffering in Syria, and also to deal with the problem of refugees in the region.
Let me underscore that the U.S.-Republic of Korea relationship today is much more than a military alliance. It is a global partnership that is growing stronger every year. In the nearly two years since the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement came into force, our bilateral trade has grown to more than $100 billion annually. Today, the Republic of Korea is our sixth-largest trading partner, and there is room, obviously, for even more growth, which we look forward to. This afternoon, we discussed the need to work together to ensure that the KORUS commitments are fully implemented so that job growth and other benefits for both of our peoples can be fully realized.
The strong economic bond that we share really is rooted in the strong bonds among our peoples. Today, more than 1.7 million Korean Americans live in the United States, and nearly 71,000 South Korean students are studying on our shores. For per capita, that is more than any other major economy in the world. And the number of American students here in places like Seoul and Busan continues to rise every year.
So, as we stand here tonight, we can safely say that the United States and the Republic of Korea are strong allies growing stronger; we are partners strengthening the partnership; and we are friends strengthening our friendship.
Last year, we celebrated the 60th year of this extraordinary relationship and all of the transformation that has come with it. This year marks the first year of the next 60. We hope that 2014 and the years that follow will bring about greater prosperity, greater opportunity, stability, and ultimately peace, for our nations and for all of our neighbors.
Thank you all for the chance to share a few words with you, and I look forward to any questions.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next we would like to open the floor to questions. Since we don’t have too much time, I would like to ask you to keep your questions brief. First, from YTN.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Yes, my name is Kimi Joon. I’m from YTN. I would like to ask a question about North Korea. You said that progress is very important. Yesterday, for the first time in seven years, there was a high-level meeting. And at the meeting, North Korea said that – demanded that the military exercises be postponed until after the family reunions. And if the military exercises go on as planned, do you think that this might impact the reunions, family reunions? So I would like to know your reaction.
And for the nuclear issue, this is not something that should be discussed between the two Koreas. You said this could be translated to mean that it should be discussed within the Six-Party Talks or between Korea – North Korea and the U.S. So first Secretary Kerry, and then Minister Yun, please.
SECRETARY KERRY: Yeah, I’m not sure that I understand the second question on the nuclear issue. Can you restate that?
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Regarding the nuclear issue, yesterday, during the high-level meeting, they said – North Korea said that this shouldn’t be discussed between South and North. So regarding nuclear – denuclearization, it could mean that North Korea wants to talk directly with the U.S. So what is your position?
SECRETARY KERRY: We’re – our – well, let me be clear, first of all, on the reunification issue. The United States does not believe that it is appropriate to link a humanitarian issue such as reunification with any other issue. And since the exercises are exercises that are not changed – not bigger, not different, occurring at exactly the same time as they have occurred every year, in the same manner that they have occurred as a matter of readiness between the United States and the Republic of Korea – there is no legitimate excuse for linking the two.
The family reunification is a matter of human rights. It’s a matter of decency. It’s a matter of living up to normal standards of human behavior and of human – of shared values and standards in the international community. And we would urge a complete separation of these two and no use of one as an excuse to somehow condition the other.
With respect to the Six-Party Talks versus individual talks, nuclear talks, the United States position has not changed. It is clear. We are in full agreement with President Park’s stance on North Korea. Today we reaffirm our commitment to a common goal, which is the verifiable denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula in a peaceful manner. And we are committed to going to talks only if there is a clarity with respect to the steps that need to be taken for denuclearization by the North. We are not in favor of talks for the sake of talks. We’ve been through that exercise previously. We want to know that this is real. And it’s – frankly, the responsibility is on North Korea to take meaningful actions to demonstrate that denuclearization is real. And it’s time for the North to choose the path of peace and to refrain from provocations and/or using excuses to avoid the responsibility that they bear.
So we are not engaged in back-channel efforts to have face-to-face talks or bilateral talks. We are committed to a process, together with our allies and friends in this effort, to guarantee that when and if we get back to talks those talks are meaningful.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (In Korean. No interpretation.)
MS. PSAKI: The next question will be from William Wan of The Washington Post.
QUESTION: Hi. I wanted to ask about the rift between our allies. How can U.S. and Korea present a united front and coordinated Asia policy when our two biggest allies – the U.S. allies in Asia, Japan and South Korea, are at each other’s throats? And what practical actual steps can you take, on the part of Secretary Kerry, and do you intend to take, on the part of Minister Yun, to bring those two sides together?
SECRETARY KERRY: Look, there is no question but that positive relations between Japan and its neighbors are in the best interests of the United States, the region, and the two countries themselves. That’s our belief. And we respect the fact that the Republic of Korea and Japan are both developed free-market economies that share values. They share a robust economic relationship, and they also share with us compelling strategic interests. So while the United States obviously has a strong interest in the relationship and in the security component of the relationship, it’s up to Japan and the Republic of Korea to put history behind them and move the relationship forward. And it is critical at the same time that we maintain robust trilateral cooperation, particularly in the face of North Korea’s nuclear threat.
So we urge our friends in Japan and in North Korea – in North Korea and South Korea – excuse me, in the Republic of Korea – we urge both of them to work with us together to find a way forward to help resolve these deeply felt historic differences that still have meaning today. And we respect the meaning that they still have today. We understand the meaning that they still have today.
So I made this case to Foreign Minister Kishida last week when he visited Washington, and again – we talked about it today with President Park and with Foreign Minister Yun. So we will continue – the United States will continue, I will personally continue to encourage both allies to find mutually acceptable approaches to legacy issues from the past and find ways to enhance bilateral and trilateral cooperation that will define the future. We believe it is possible to do both. And we’re going to work very hard, obviously, over the course of the next weeks and months to do so.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) I would just like to add (inaudible) regarding the relationship between Korea and Japan. Of course, with the new government we have made a lot of efforts to stabilize the relationship between Korea and Japan. But unfortunately, as the international society has seen, during the past few months, some Japanese political leaders have made a lot of historically incorrect remarks. And so these revisionist – historically revisionist remarks, as long as they last, till then it will be difficult to build trust between our two countries. And so these leaders must look at history as it is, and they must be very sincere. And we are always willing to dialogue with them.
And so they must make the efforts to create an environment conducive to dialogue. International society these days regarding the sexual slavery as well as the view on history is a matter of concern for international society. So they must listen to these concerns and must take the appropriate measures to correct the situation. This must be the foundation for the improved Korean-Japanese relations.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) Next from (inaudible).
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) Yes, my name is (inaudible). I would first of all like to ask Secretary Kerry regarding the Korea-Japanese relationship, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Chuck Hagel, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said that the Senkaku Islands are part of the defense treaty. But does the Dokdo – are the Dokdo Islands also part of the defense treaty? And also, last October, there were some tensions and when the Prime Minister Abe visited the Shinto shrine, so this seemed to negate history. So how do you evaluate such actions by the prime minister of Japan? And when Barack Obama visits Japan and Korea, do you think that he will try to mediate the relations between Korea and Japan?
And to Minister Yun, there have been a lot of reports about unofficial contacts with Japan, so – and there’s a lot – there are a lot of talks that this is not encouraging for the tripartite relations. So what are your comments?
SECRETARY KERRY: So three questions there, I think. On the Senkaku Islands, I agree with the statement of Secretary Clinton and I agree with the statement of Secretary Hagel. And that is the position of the United States with respect to those islands.
With respect to the prime minister’s visit, we’ve spoken out. I think that we made clear that we had a difference of opinion with respect to the judgment about the visit, and that was made clear at the time. And I don't think we need to dwell on it now.
Which brings me to the essence of your question, which is this notion of an effort to mediate between the parties and will President Obama do that. Frankly, we hope that this issue will not be outstanding in a way that requires the President to do that. We need to be doing it now. We don’t want to wait until President Obama is here, obviously, to get moving in a direction that helps to deal with this. So as I said earlier, I’ve already been engaged with Foreign Minister Kishida. I was engaged today with President Park and with Foreign Minister Yun. And I will continue, together with our Ambassador, with the Foreign Minister, with our Assistant Secretary of State Mr. Russel, and others – we will be engaged in this over the next days and weeks. And our hope is that it will be possible to try to find a way forward.
But we also have, frankly, issues of enormous current pressing concern that deal with security and that are relevant in terms of today, not in terms of history. And it is vital for us to be able to continue to stay focused on the high stakes, in terms of everybody’s lives right now, of those issues. And we intend to continue to make certain that we’re paying adequate attention to those priorities, even as we deal with this legitimate concern about the past. And we will do so.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Yes, so regarding contacts between North Korea and Japan, recently there have been quite a lot of reports about such contacts. But Japan has not officially said anything about these reports, and so I myself am not in a position to talk about that.
But if there are such contacts, then I think that since they are part of the Six-Party Talks, I think that this might impact the talks between the other members of the Six-Party Talks, and I don't think it will be very helpful or conducive for those – for the talks.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) One point that I would like to ask again to Secretary Kerry regarding the defense treaty or for the Dokdo Islands, do you believe that it’s part of the defense treaty between Korea and the U.S.?
SECRETARY KERRY: The – which island? I’m sorry. I can’t hear you.
QUESTION: (Via interpreter) The Dokdo Islands. In the mutual defense treaty between Korea and the U.S., how do you view Dokdo Islands?
SECRETARY KERRY: I think we have answered that previously, and we have affirmed that it is.
MS. PSAKI: The final question will be from Michael Gordon of The New York Times.
QUESTION: Mr. Secretary, last April during a visit to Beijing, you sought China’s cooperation in persuading North Korea to commit itself to denuclearization. But since then, as you’ve noted, North Korea’s nuclear program has continued to advance and economic ties between China and the North continue to be substantial. Now almost a year later, you’re headed back to Beijing to make the same appeal again. What specifically do you want the Chinese leadership to do with regard to North Korea? And why realistically should one expect the Chinese leadership to put sufficient pressure on North Korea to reverse course on the nuclear front? Why would one expect China to elevate its concerns about the nuclear issues over its historic focus on stability, since that really didn’t occur over the past year? And if that isn’t going to happen, should the Obama Administration review an adjusted strategy?
And then a question for both, for the Minister and Mr. Secretary Kerry: Pertaining to developments in North Korea, do you see the execution of Kim Jong-un’s uncle as a indication that Kim Jong-un is consolidating power or as an indication of instability in the regime? Thank you.
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, Michael, you are correct in that I did raise it when I was there before. And I’m obviously going to be talking about it again. But I don't think it is correct to make an assumption that the situation is anywhere near what it was when I came here last year. When I came here last year, I arrived, I think, on a weekend, during which time North Korea was still publicly rattling the saber, making threats, and poised to test. And we were in a very tense moment where there had been a series of tests, of provocations. The United States had responded with a deployment of Aegis destroyer and a THAAD system to Guam. And there was a sense of potential conflict in the air of immediacy. And with that visit to China and China’s assumption of some initial steps, which they did take, that quieted down. That changed, and there has been a change over the course of this last year.
Now, notwithstanding that change, and not withstanding real steps that China has taken, we still find a reluctant North Korea, an unwilling North Korea, a stubbornly resistant North Korea to taking the steps that are necessary to move towards denuclearization and have real talks about the future. The fact is, the United States and China agree on the fundamental importance of a denuclearized North Korea. There is no question of that.
But China has a unique and critical role that it can play due to its economic, its geographic, its political, and its historical, cultural ties with North Korea. No country has a greater potential to influence North Korea’s behavior than China, given their extensive trading relationship with the North. As we know, all of the refined fuel that goes into move every automobile and every airplane in North Korea comes from China. All of the fundamental rudimentary banking structure that the North has with the world passes through China. Significant trade and assistance goes from China to North Korea.
So China has enormous ability to be able to have an impact here, and tomorrow my instructions from President Obama are to sit with the Chinese leadership and make the case that we cannot wait till the North has either gone so much further in its program that it’s even more complicated to deal with, or created a provocation that incites a response that creates even greater problems of security. So our belief is that China can do more now to urge North Korea to begin taking action to come into compliance with its international obligations. And I will encourage China to use all of the means at its disposal to do so.
Now, I want to make it clear: China has responded. China has done positive things. China is very concerned about what has happened with Chang Sung-taek and the purge. I think there are leaders in China deeply upset by the reluctance of Kim Jong-un to receive an envoy and to engage in serious dialogue, and the reluctance even to respond to very clear urgent needs to create stability on the peninsula and in the region that would come from a legitimate denuclearization effort.
So there is more that China can do. But even as I say that, this is not just about what China does, this is about what all of the Six-Party partners are prepared to do in order to try to move this issue once and for all. So we are hopeful that we can – as we did with Iran sanctions and as we have in other efforts – ratchet up the effort at this point in time, as appropriate, to the reluctance of the North to yet respond adequately.
FOREIGN MINISTER YUN: (Via interpreter) Yes, as I mentioned in my opening statement, recently, as we saw in Iran, there is consolidation regarding the positions of the international society and that position will help in resolving the North Korean nuclear issue. So I believe that coordination and cooperation in the international society is very important. So Korea and the U.S., together with China, will work together. And we are doing so right now for the denuclearization.
As was mentioned earlier, we are against additional nuclear tests and we are taking several steps, and this has been evaluated constantly in international society. So we will continue to work so that we will have true denuclearization in North Korea. And we will, on the one hand, have dialogue, and also at the same time we will work with the UNSC, the UN Security Council, to have resolutions against and sanctions against North Korea. And so we will work with a two-track strategy and in that way we hope that we will be effective and that we will have denuclearization of North Korea. And we must not have talks for talks’ sake. This is a position that I am keeping.
Regarding the execution of Chang Sung-taek, whether it’s consolidation or instability of the North Korean regime, well, this can be viewed from various aspects. During the past two years in North Korea there have been a lot of changes in the military of North Korea. And so in the short term, it may appear to mean control of the military. But to what extent this will have momentum, I don't think that anybody can say. But the public execution of the Chang Sung-taek, the way that it is viewed by countries around North Korea, leans towards instability. So the instability is greater than at any other time in the past. That’s the general view of what is happening in North Korea. And so in the future, how this will impact its foreign affairs, how it will impact its relations with other country, not only with the South Korea but also with the U.S., this is something that we must work on and act accordingly.
MODERATOR: (Via interpreter) This will conclude the joint press conference of the R.O.K., U.S. foreign ministers. Thank you, the two ministers, for your very precise answers to the questions. Thank you.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
U.S., CANADA AND MEXICO DISCUSS ANTITRUST ENFORCEMENT
FROM: JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Thursday, February 13, 2014
U.S., Canada and Mexico Antitrust Officials Participate in Trilateral Meeting in Washington to Discuss Antitrust Enforcement
The heads of the antitrust agencies of the United States, Canada and Mexico – Assistant Attorney General Bill Baer of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, Chairwoman Edith Ramirez of the Federal Trade Commission, Canadian Commissioner of Competition John Pecman and President Alejandra Palacios Prieto of the Mexican Federal Competition Commission – met today in Washington, D.C., to discuss their mutual efforts to ensure continued effective antitrust enforcement cooperation in our increasingly interconnected markets.
The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including recent enforcement developments, cooperation and mutual support, and priority setting and efficiency in resource constrained environments.
“Working with our antitrust colleagues across both United States borders to ensure effective antitrust enforcement is good for businesses and consumers,” said Assistant Attorney General Baer. “The department values its close law enforcement relationships with Canada and Mexico, and I look forward to our continued efforts to work together to combat anticompetitive activity.”
The meetings build on the foundations laid by the 1995 antitrust cooperation agreement between the United States and Canada, the 1999 agreement between the United States and Mexico and the 2001 agreement between Canada and Mexico. The agreements commit the antitrust agencies to cooperate and coordinate with each other to make their antitrust policies and enforcement as consistent and effective as possible.
The three nations also are parties to the North American Free Trade Agreement, which includes a competition chapter that provides for cooperation among them in antitrust investigations.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
U.S., Canada and Mexico Antitrust Officials Participate in Trilateral Meeting in Washington to Discuss Antitrust Enforcement
The heads of the antitrust agencies of the United States, Canada and Mexico – Assistant Attorney General Bill Baer of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, Chairwoman Edith Ramirez of the Federal Trade Commission, Canadian Commissioner of Competition John Pecman and President Alejandra Palacios Prieto of the Mexican Federal Competition Commission – met today in Washington, D.C., to discuss their mutual efforts to ensure continued effective antitrust enforcement cooperation in our increasingly interconnected markets.
The discussions covered a wide range of topics, including recent enforcement developments, cooperation and mutual support, and priority setting and efficiency in resource constrained environments.
“Working with our antitrust colleagues across both United States borders to ensure effective antitrust enforcement is good for businesses and consumers,” said Assistant Attorney General Baer. “The department values its close law enforcement relationships with Canada and Mexico, and I look forward to our continued efforts to work together to combat anticompetitive activity.”
The meetings build on the foundations laid by the 1995 antitrust cooperation agreement between the United States and Canada, the 1999 agreement between the United States and Mexico and the 2001 agreement between Canada and Mexico. The agreements commit the antitrust agencies to cooperate and coordinate with each other to make their antitrust policies and enforcement as consistent and effective as possible.
The three nations also are parties to the North American Free Trade Agreement, which includes a competition chapter that provides for cooperation among them in antitrust investigations.
UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE WEEKLY CLAIMS REPORT FOR WEEK ENDING FEBRUARY 8, 2014
FROM: U.S. LABOR DEPARTMENT
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA
In the week ending February 8, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 339,000, an increase of 8,000 from the previous week's unrevised figure of 331,000. The 4-week moving average was 336,750, an increase of 3,500 from the previous week's revised average of 333,250.
The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.3 percent for the week ending February 1, unchanged from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending February 1 was 2,953,000, a decrease of 18,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 2,971,000. The 4-week moving average was 2,969,750, a decrease of 17,250 from the preceding week's revised average of 2,987,000.
UNADJUSTED DATA
The advance number of actual initial claims under state programs, unadjusted, totaled 358,914 in the week ending February 8, an increase of 3,727 from the previous week. There were 361,417 initial claims in the comparable week in 2013.
The advance unadjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.6 percent during the week ending February 1, unchanged from the prior week. The advance unadjusted number for persons claiming UI benefits in state programs totaled 3,464,006, an increase of 14,387 from the preceding week. A year earlier, the rate was 2.9 percent and the volume was 3,667,052.
The total number of people claiming benefits in all programs for the week ending January 25 was 3,524,188, an increase of 57,339 from the previous week. There were 5,918,175 persons claiming benefits in all programs in the comparable week in 2013.
No state was triggered "on" the Extended Benefits program during the week ending January 25.
Initial claims for UI benefits filed by former Federal civilian employees totaled 1,374 in the week ending February 1, an increase of 159 from the prior week. There were 1,916 initial claims filed by newly discharged veterans, an increase of 82 from the preceding week.
There were 23,095 former Federal civilian employees claiming UI benefits for the week ending January 25, an increase of 1,492 from the previous week. Newly discharged veterans claiming benefits totaled 30,723, an increase of 164 from the prior week.
The highest insured unemployment rates in the week ending January 25 were in Alaska (6.4), New Jersey (4.4), Rhode Island (4.1), Connecticut (4.0), Illinois (3.8), Pennsylvania (3.8), Montana (3.7), West Virginia (3.7), Wisconsin (3.7), California (3.5), Massachusetts (3.5), and Puerto Rico (3.5).
The largest increases in initial claims for the week ending February 1 were in Wisconsin (+5,041), New York (+4,830), Pennsylvania (+2,448), New Jersey (+1,853), and Ohio (+1,780), while the largest decreases were in California (-9,631), Georgia (-2,558), Indiana (-2,444), Michigan (-2,411), and Florida (-1,387).
SEASONALLY ADJUSTED DATA
In the week ending February 8, the advance figure for seasonally adjusted initial claims was 339,000, an increase of 8,000 from the previous week's unrevised figure of 331,000. The 4-week moving average was 336,750, an increase of 3,500 from the previous week's revised average of 333,250.
The advance seasonally adjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.3 percent for the week ending February 1, unchanged from the prior week's unrevised rate. The advance number for seasonally adjusted insured unemployment during the week ending February 1 was 2,953,000, a decrease of 18,000 from the preceding week's revised level of 2,971,000. The 4-week moving average was 2,969,750, a decrease of 17,250 from the preceding week's revised average of 2,987,000.
UNADJUSTED DATA
The advance number of actual initial claims under state programs, unadjusted, totaled 358,914 in the week ending February 8, an increase of 3,727 from the previous week. There were 361,417 initial claims in the comparable week in 2013.
The advance unadjusted insured unemployment rate was 2.6 percent during the week ending February 1, unchanged from the prior week. The advance unadjusted number for persons claiming UI benefits in state programs totaled 3,464,006, an increase of 14,387 from the preceding week. A year earlier, the rate was 2.9 percent and the volume was 3,667,052.
The total number of people claiming benefits in all programs for the week ending January 25 was 3,524,188, an increase of 57,339 from the previous week. There were 5,918,175 persons claiming benefits in all programs in the comparable week in 2013.
No state was triggered "on" the Extended Benefits program during the week ending January 25.
Initial claims for UI benefits filed by former Federal civilian employees totaled 1,374 in the week ending February 1, an increase of 159 from the prior week. There were 1,916 initial claims filed by newly discharged veterans, an increase of 82 from the preceding week.
There were 23,095 former Federal civilian employees claiming UI benefits for the week ending January 25, an increase of 1,492 from the previous week. Newly discharged veterans claiming benefits totaled 30,723, an increase of 164 from the prior week.
The highest insured unemployment rates in the week ending January 25 were in Alaska (6.4), New Jersey (4.4), Rhode Island (4.1), Connecticut (4.0), Illinois (3.8), Pennsylvania (3.8), Montana (3.7), West Virginia (3.7), Wisconsin (3.7), California (3.5), Massachusetts (3.5), and Puerto Rico (3.5).
The largest increases in initial claims for the week ending February 1 were in Wisconsin (+5,041), New York (+4,830), Pennsylvania (+2,448), New Jersey (+1,853), and Ohio (+1,780), while the largest decreases were in California (-9,631), Georgia (-2,558), Indiana (-2,444), Michigan (-2,411), and Florida (-1,387).
U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT CONTRACTS FOR FEBRUARY 13, 2014
FROM: DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Sallyport Global Services (part of KS International, LLC), McLean, Va., has been awarded a $215,000,000 firm-fixed-price, undefinitized contract action for Iraq base renovation and reconstruction of key facilities at Balad Air Base, Iraq, in support of the upcoming arrival of F-16 aircraft in September 2014. Work will be performed at Balad Air Base, Iraq, and is expected to be completed by June 2015. This award is the result of a sole-source acquisition. This requirement is 100 percent foreign military sales for the government of Iraq. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WWMK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8615-14-C-6021).
The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., has been awarded a $51,233,782 firm-fixed-price modification (P00023) to an existing firm-fixed-price contract (FA8634-12-C-2651) for the procurement of integration of additional weapons, integration of ARC-210 RT 1990 Gen 5 radios, and integration of Honeycomb structure to the aircraft on the F-15SA aircraft for the Royal Saudi Air Force. Work will be performed at St. Louis, Mo., and will be completed by Feb. 29, 2020. Foreign military sales funds for Saudi Arabia in the amount of $19,835,000 are being obligated at time of award. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, has been awarded a $16,814,091 bilateral modification (P00171) for an existing firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (FA8611-08-C-2897) for engineering change proposal (ECP) 0533, follow-on agile sustainment for the F-22 Raptor, Reliability and Maintainability Maturation Program Project AF100 Acceleration Plan. This effort is to procure retrofit kits that will provide a more durable material for the actuated doors on the bottom of the aircraft to improve availability of the aircraft. ECP 0533 is the first of two phases to incorporate the new material on the doors and panels of the aircraft. Work will be performed at Fort Worth, Texas, and is expected to be complete by September 2016. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement funds in the amount of $16,814,091 are being obligated at time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WWUK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity.
ARMY
Honeywell International Inc., Tempe, Ariz., was awarded a $9,943,752 modification (P00004) to firm-fixed-price, sole-source, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract W911N2-13-D-0011 to exercise option year one for the purchase of 58 (estimated) gas turbine engines to support the Aviation Ground Power Unit reset at Letterkenny Army Depot. Funding and performance location will be determined with each order. The estimated completion date is Feb. 14, 2015. The U.S. Army Contracting Command-Letterkenny Army Depot, Chambersburg, Pa., is the contracting activity.
HNTB Corp., Kansas City, Mo., was awarded a $9,500,000 firm-fixed-price ‘Architect and Engineering’ indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for civil works and military projects throughout the Corps of Engineers and environmental projects throughout the Kansas City district of the Corps of Engineers. Funding and performance location will be determined with each order. The contract was solicited via the Web with 11 bids received. The estimated completion date is Feb. 11, 2019. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Kansas City District, Kansas City, Kan., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-14-D-1000).
NAVY
Statistical Research Inc.*, Tucson, Ariz. (N62473-14- D-1412); Far Western Anthropological Research Group Inc.*, Davis, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1413); Ultra Systems Environmental Inc.*, Irvine, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1414); ASM Affiliates Inc.*, Carlsbad, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1415), and Tierra Environmental Services Inc.*, San Diego, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1416), are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple-award contract for cultural resources services at various locations within the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility (AOR) and other locations nationwide. The maximum dollar value including the base period and four option years for all five contracts combined is $50,000,000. The work to be performed provides for the contractors to furnish all labor, management, supervision, tools, materials, travel, lodging/subsistence, equipment, and transportation to provide cultural resources related studies, investigations, preparation of historic and archaeological documents, and implementation of plans in accordance with Sections 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. These five contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. No task orders are being issued at this time. All work on this contract will be performed primarily within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR which includes California (94 percent), Arizona (1 percent), Colorado (1 percent), Nevada (1 percent), New Mexico (1 percent), and Utah (1 percent). Work may also be performed in the remainder of the continental U.S. (1 percent). The term of the contract is not to exceed 60 months with an expected completion date of February 2019. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance, Navy contract funds in the amount of $25,000 are obligated on this award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with seven proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Sealaska Environmental Services LLC*, Juneau, Alaska, is being awarded a maximum amount $30,794,172 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for long term monitoring, operations, and maintenance environmental remediation services for facilities in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest areas of responsibility. Task order 0001 is being awarded at $421,091 for operation and maintenance of two environmental remediation systems located at Naval Base Kitsap, Silverdale, Wash. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by March 2015. Work on this contract will be performed at various installations including but not limited to Washington (75 percent), Alaska (21 percent), Idaho (1 percent), Montana (1 percent), Oregon (1 percent), and Wyoming (1 percent). The term of the contract is not to exceed 60 months with an expected completion date of March 2019. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance, Navy contract funds in the amount of $421,091 are obligated on this award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with six proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-14-D-9011).
The Boeing Co., St Louis, Mo., is being awarded $18,977,907 for firm-fixed-price delivery order 0050 against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N68335-10-G-0012) for procurement of major structural repair and maintenance equipment for the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircraft. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo., and is expected to be completed in January 2018. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement, Navy funds in the amount of $18,977,907 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.
L-3 Communications Vertex Aerospace LLC, Madison, Miss., is being awarded a $6,530,626 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price contract for maintenance and logistics services in support of the KC-130J aircraft for the government of Kuwait under the Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed at Al Mubarak Airbase, Kuwait, and is expected to be completed in August 2015. Foreign military sales funds in the amount of $6,530,626 are being obligated on this award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via an electronic request for proposals; four offers were received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-14-D-0015).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Fujifilm SonoSite Inc., Bothell, Wash., has been awarded a maximum $39,672,731 modification (P00104) exercising the fifth option year on a one-year base contract (SPM2D1-09-D-8339) with seven one-year option periods for radiology systems, subsystems and components. This is a fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract. Location of performance is Washington with a Feb. 18, 2015 performance completion date. Using military services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 through fiscal 2015 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa.
Tullahoma Industries Inc.*, Tullahoma, Tenn., has been awarded a maximum $9,201,000 modification (P00102) exercising the second option year on a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-12-D-1024) with two one-year option periods for universal camouflage pattern jackets. This is a firm-fixed-price contract. Locations of performance are Tennessee and Alabama with a Feb. 15, 2015 performance completion date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal year 2014 through fiscal year 2015 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa.
Honeywell International Inc., Minneapolis, Minn., has been awarded a maximum $8,642,970 firm-fixed-price contract for inertial navigation units. This contract is a sole-source acquisition. Location of performance is Minnesota with a May 31, 2016 performance completion date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Maritime, Mechanicsburg, Pa., (SPM4A1-11-G-0010-1002).
*Small Business
CONTRACTS
AIR FORCE
Sallyport Global Services (part of KS International, LLC), McLean, Va., has been awarded a $215,000,000 firm-fixed-price, undefinitized contract action for Iraq base renovation and reconstruction of key facilities at Balad Air Base, Iraq, in support of the upcoming arrival of F-16 aircraft in September 2014. Work will be performed at Balad Air Base, Iraq, and is expected to be completed by June 2015. This award is the result of a sole-source acquisition. This requirement is 100 percent foreign military sales for the government of Iraq. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WWMK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity (FA8615-14-C-6021).
The Boeing Co., St. Louis, Mo., has been awarded a $51,233,782 firm-fixed-price modification (P00023) to an existing firm-fixed-price contract (FA8634-12-C-2651) for the procurement of integration of additional weapons, integration of ARC-210 RT 1990 Gen 5 radios, and integration of Honeycomb structure to the aircraft on the F-15SA aircraft for the Royal Saudi Air Force. Work will be performed at St. Louis, Mo., and will be completed by Feb. 29, 2020. Foreign military sales funds for Saudi Arabia in the amount of $19,835,000 are being obligated at time of award. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin Corp., Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Co., Fort Worth, Texas, has been awarded a $16,814,091 bilateral modification (P00171) for an existing firm-fixed-price, cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (FA8611-08-C-2897) for engineering change proposal (ECP) 0533, follow-on agile sustainment for the F-22 Raptor, Reliability and Maintainability Maturation Program Project AF100 Acceleration Plan. This effort is to procure retrofit kits that will provide a more durable material for the actuated doors on the bottom of the aircraft to improve availability of the aircraft. ECP 0533 is the first of two phases to incorporate the new material on the doors and panels of the aircraft. Work will be performed at Fort Worth, Texas, and is expected to be complete by September 2016. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement funds in the amount of $16,814,091 are being obligated at time of award. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center/WWUK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, is the contracting activity.
ARMY
Honeywell International Inc., Tempe, Ariz., was awarded a $9,943,752 modification (P00004) to firm-fixed-price, sole-source, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract W911N2-13-D-0011 to exercise option year one for the purchase of 58 (estimated) gas turbine engines to support the Aviation Ground Power Unit reset at Letterkenny Army Depot. Funding and performance location will be determined with each order. The estimated completion date is Feb. 14, 2015. The U.S. Army Contracting Command-Letterkenny Army Depot, Chambersburg, Pa., is the contracting activity.
HNTB Corp., Kansas City, Mo., was awarded a $9,500,000 firm-fixed-price ‘Architect and Engineering’ indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for civil works and military projects throughout the Corps of Engineers and environmental projects throughout the Kansas City district of the Corps of Engineers. Funding and performance location will be determined with each order. The contract was solicited via the Web with 11 bids received. The estimated completion date is Feb. 11, 2019. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Kansas City District, Kansas City, Kan., is the contracting activity (W912DQ-14-D-1000).
NAVY
Statistical Research Inc.*, Tucson, Ariz. (N62473-14- D-1412); Far Western Anthropological Research Group Inc.*, Davis, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1413); Ultra Systems Environmental Inc.*, Irvine, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1414); ASM Affiliates Inc.*, Carlsbad, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1415), and Tierra Environmental Services Inc.*, San Diego, Calif. (N62473-14- D-1416), are each being awarded a firm-fixed-price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, multiple-award contract for cultural resources services at various locations within the Naval Facilities Engineering Command (NAVFAC) Southwest area of responsibility (AOR) and other locations nationwide. The maximum dollar value including the base period and four option years for all five contracts combined is $50,000,000. The work to be performed provides for the contractors to furnish all labor, management, supervision, tools, materials, travel, lodging/subsistence, equipment, and transportation to provide cultural resources related studies, investigations, preparation of historic and archaeological documents, and implementation of plans in accordance with Sections 106 and 110 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended. These five contractors may compete for task orders under the terms and conditions of the awarded contract. No task orders are being issued at this time. All work on this contract will be performed primarily within the NAVFAC Southwest AOR which includes California (94 percent), Arizona (1 percent), Colorado (1 percent), Nevada (1 percent), New Mexico (1 percent), and Utah (1 percent). Work may also be performed in the remainder of the continental U.S. (1 percent). The term of the contract is not to exceed 60 months with an expected completion date of February 2019. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance, Navy contract funds in the amount of $25,000 are obligated on this award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Federal Business Opportunities website, with seven proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Sealaska Environmental Services LLC*, Juneau, Alaska, is being awarded a maximum amount $30,794,172 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for long term monitoring, operations, and maintenance environmental remediation services for facilities in the Naval Facilities Engineering Command Northwest areas of responsibility. Task order 0001 is being awarded at $421,091 for operation and maintenance of two environmental remediation systems located at Naval Base Kitsap, Silverdale, Wash. Work for this task order is expected to be completed by March 2015. Work on this contract will be performed at various installations including but not limited to Washington (75 percent), Alaska (21 percent), Idaho (1 percent), Montana (1 percent), Oregon (1 percent), and Wyoming (1 percent). The term of the contract is not to exceed 60 months with an expected completion date of March 2019. Fiscal 2014 operations and maintenance, Navy contract funds in the amount of $421,091 are obligated on this award and will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with six proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-14-D-9011).
The Boeing Co., St Louis, Mo., is being awarded $18,977,907 for firm-fixed-price delivery order 0050 against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N68335-10-G-0012) for procurement of major structural repair and maintenance equipment for the F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircraft. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Mo., and is expected to be completed in January 2018. Fiscal 2013 aircraft procurement, Navy funds in the amount of $18,977,907 will be obligated at time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.
L-3 Communications Vertex Aerospace LLC, Madison, Miss., is being awarded a $6,530,626 indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity, firm-fixed-price contract for maintenance and logistics services in support of the KC-130J aircraft for the government of Kuwait under the Foreign Military Sales Program. Work will be performed at Al Mubarak Airbase, Kuwait, and is expected to be completed in August 2015. Foreign military sales funds in the amount of $6,530,626 are being obligated on this award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via an electronic request for proposals; four offers were received. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Md., is the contracting activity (N00019-14-D-0015).
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Fujifilm SonoSite Inc., Bothell, Wash., has been awarded a maximum $39,672,731 modification (P00104) exercising the fifth option year on a one-year base contract (SPM2D1-09-D-8339) with seven one-year option periods for radiology systems, subsystems and components. This is a fixed-price with economic-price-adjustment contract. Location of performance is Washington with a Feb. 18, 2015 performance completion date. Using military services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and federal civilian agencies. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 through fiscal 2015 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa.
Tullahoma Industries Inc.*, Tullahoma, Tenn., has been awarded a maximum $9,201,000 modification (P00102) exercising the second option year on a one-year base contract (SPM1C1-12-D-1024) with two one-year option periods for universal camouflage pattern jackets. This is a firm-fixed-price contract. Locations of performance are Tennessee and Alabama with a Feb. 15, 2015 performance completion date. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal year 2014 through fiscal year 2015 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pa.
Honeywell International Inc., Minneapolis, Minn., has been awarded a maximum $8,642,970 firm-fixed-price contract for inertial navigation units. This contract is a sole-source acquisition. Location of performance is Minnesota with a May 31, 2016 performance completion date. Using military service is Navy. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2014 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Maritime, Mechanicsburg, Pa., (SPM4A1-11-G-0010-1002).
*Small Business
PRESIDENT OF SOUTH KOREA PARK GEUN-HYE MAKES REMARKS WITH SECRETARY KERRY
FROM: STATE DEPARTMENT
Remarks With President Park Geun-hye of South Korea
Remarks
John Kerry
Secretary of State
The Blue House
Seoul, South Korea
February 13, 2014
PRESIDENT PARK: (Via interpreter) I am delighted to meet with you again, Mr. Secretary. You last visited Korea back in April of last year, and this year you’ve also come at a very critical time, and I’m sure that today your visit will serve as an occasion for moving our relationship forward as well. And incidentally, you also bring with you good tidings with regard to President Obama’s visit, in the latter half of April. We welcome that news.
SECRETARY KERRY: Look, I didn’t want to walk in here without that. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT PARK: (Via interpreter) I have read through various media reports and I’ve received various news about how hard you’ve been working ever since you took office as Secretary of State in terms of dealing with, for instance, the Iranian nuclear issue and the proliferation of Iranian – and the proliferation aspect of Iran’s nuclear program, as well as the Syrian issue, and other – some of the world’s most difficult issues. And I read how you’ve exercised and demonstrated extraordinary caliber in dealing with these issues. I’m also very well aware of your active diplomacy. And indeed I am told that in the service of upholding peace around the world and dealing with various international entities, you’ve traveled a distance that amounts to circling the globe 13 times. (Laughter.)
SECRETARY KERRY: (Inaudible.) Now you’ve scared me. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT PARK: (Inaudible.) (Laughter.)
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, thank you. Madam President, thank you so much. First of all, I’ll tell you, it’s a great privilege to have a chance to be able to meet again. President Obama is very excited about being able to come and visit, because it’s, as you’ve said, a very, very important time. There’s a lot happening. Frankly, there’s too much tension - difficult, complicated and historical issues, and a huge need for us to be able to continue to keep our alliance as strong and effective as it has been.
I think you know that the President and all of us in America believe that this is an essential alliance, an essential partnership, and we’re very, very grateful to you for a strong 60 years behind us; now we can plan on the next 60 years. And I think North Korea, obviously, the challenge of their nuclear program remains an essential security issue. And then, of course, the other issues in the region which you and I will have a chance to talk about.
But we’re very grateful to you for your leadership and your cooperation on Afghanistan, and Syria, on Iran. And I have enjoyed enormously our relationship with (inaudible), Minister Yun, (inaudible) to conduct this conversation. And so today (inaudible) that hopefully we can map out a few things.
Remarks With President Park Geun-hye of South Korea
Remarks
John Kerry
Secretary of State
The Blue House
Seoul, South Korea
February 13, 2014
PRESIDENT PARK: (Via interpreter) I am delighted to meet with you again, Mr. Secretary. You last visited Korea back in April of last year, and this year you’ve also come at a very critical time, and I’m sure that today your visit will serve as an occasion for moving our relationship forward as well. And incidentally, you also bring with you good tidings with regard to President Obama’s visit, in the latter half of April. We welcome that news.
SECRETARY KERRY: Look, I didn’t want to walk in here without that. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT PARK: (Via interpreter) I have read through various media reports and I’ve received various news about how hard you’ve been working ever since you took office as Secretary of State in terms of dealing with, for instance, the Iranian nuclear issue and the proliferation of Iranian – and the proliferation aspect of Iran’s nuclear program, as well as the Syrian issue, and other – some of the world’s most difficult issues. And I read how you’ve exercised and demonstrated extraordinary caliber in dealing with these issues. I’m also very well aware of your active diplomacy. And indeed I am told that in the service of upholding peace around the world and dealing with various international entities, you’ve traveled a distance that amounts to circling the globe 13 times. (Laughter.)
SECRETARY KERRY: (Inaudible.) Now you’ve scared me. (Laughter.)
PRESIDENT PARK: (Inaudible.) (Laughter.)
SECRETARY KERRY: Well, thank you. Madam President, thank you so much. First of all, I’ll tell you, it’s a great privilege to have a chance to be able to meet again. President Obama is very excited about being able to come and visit, because it’s, as you’ve said, a very, very important time. There’s a lot happening. Frankly, there’s too much tension - difficult, complicated and historical issues, and a huge need for us to be able to continue to keep our alliance as strong and effective as it has been.
I think you know that the President and all of us in America believe that this is an essential alliance, an essential partnership, and we’re very, very grateful to you for a strong 60 years behind us; now we can plan on the next 60 years. And I think North Korea, obviously, the challenge of their nuclear program remains an essential security issue. And then, of course, the other issues in the region which you and I will have a chance to talk about.
But we’re very grateful to you for your leadership and your cooperation on Afghanistan, and Syria, on Iran. And I have enjoyed enormously our relationship with (inaudible), Minister Yun, (inaudible) to conduct this conversation. And so today (inaudible) that hopefully we can map out a few things.
MEMBERS APPROVED FOR TAXPAYER ADVOCACY PANEL
FROM: INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE
Taxpayer Advocacy Panel Members Selected
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service recommended and the Department of Treasury approved the selection of 27 new members to serve on the nationwide Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP). The TAP is a federal advisory committee charged with providing taxpayer suggestions to improve IRS customer service.
The new TAP members will join 46 returning members to round out the panel of 73 volunteers for 2014. The new members were selected from more than 400 interested individuals from across the country who applied during an open recruitment period last spring or the pool of alternate members who applied in prior years.
"TAP member volunteers are counted on to recognize important taxpayer issues and bring them to our attention,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “Their work and advice help the IRS serve the nation’s taxpayers.”
The TAP listens to taxpayers, identifies issues and makes suggestions for improving IRS service and customer satisfaction. Oversight and program support for the TAP are provided by the Taxpayer Advocate Service, an independent organization within the IRS that helps resolve taxpayer problems and makes recommendations to avoid future problems.
“To meet the needs of the taxpaying public, it is critical that the IRS listen to taxpayers to hear what their needs and preferences are,” said Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate. “The citizen volunteers who serve on the TAP are, first and foremost, taxpayers who bring a taxpayer perspective to bear in advising on the IRS’s taxpayer service activities.”
TAP members work with IRS executives on priority topics, primarily those involving the Wage & Investment and Small Business/Self-Employed operating divisions. Members also serve as a conduit for bringing grassroots concerns raised by the taxpaying public to the attention of the IRS.
TAP members are U.S. citizens who volunteer to serve a three-year appointment and are expected to devote 200 to 300 hours per year to panel activities. TAP members are demographically and geographically diverse, providing balanced representation from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
Taxpayer Advocacy Panel Members Selected
WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service recommended and the Department of Treasury approved the selection of 27 new members to serve on the nationwide Taxpayer Advocacy Panel (TAP). The TAP is a federal advisory committee charged with providing taxpayer suggestions to improve IRS customer service.
The new TAP members will join 46 returning members to round out the panel of 73 volunteers for 2014. The new members were selected from more than 400 interested individuals from across the country who applied during an open recruitment period last spring or the pool of alternate members who applied in prior years.
"TAP member volunteers are counted on to recognize important taxpayer issues and bring them to our attention,” said IRS Commissioner John Koskinen. “Their work and advice help the IRS serve the nation’s taxpayers.”
The TAP listens to taxpayers, identifies issues and makes suggestions for improving IRS service and customer satisfaction. Oversight and program support for the TAP are provided by the Taxpayer Advocate Service, an independent organization within the IRS that helps resolve taxpayer problems and makes recommendations to avoid future problems.
“To meet the needs of the taxpaying public, it is critical that the IRS listen to taxpayers to hear what their needs and preferences are,” said Nina E. Olson, National Taxpayer Advocate. “The citizen volunteers who serve on the TAP are, first and foremost, taxpayers who bring a taxpayer perspective to bear in advising on the IRS’s taxpayer service activities.”
TAP members work with IRS executives on priority topics, primarily those involving the Wage & Investment and Small Business/Self-Employed operating divisions. Members also serve as a conduit for bringing grassroots concerns raised by the taxpaying public to the attention of the IRS.
TAP members are U.S. citizens who volunteer to serve a three-year appointment and are expected to devote 200 to 300 hours per year to panel activities. TAP members are demographically and geographically diverse, providing balanced representation from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
EX-IM BANK NAMED "MULTILATERAL" OF THE YEAR BY PROJECT FINANCE INTERNATIONAL
FROM: EXPORT-IMPORT BANK
Project Finance International Names Ex-Im Bank “Multilateral” of the Year
Washington, D.C. – The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) was named 2013’s Global Multilateral of the Year by Project Finance International (PFI) in recognition of the Bank’s “game-changing” deals and its strategic portfolio expansion.
“We are very appreciative of Project Finance International’s recognition of our work on behalf of U.S. exporters and their operations abroad,” said Export-Import Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg. “In today’s hyper-competitive environment, Ex-Im Bank’s role is indispensable for responding to gaps in export financing and leveling the playing field for U.S. exporters. Supporting American jobs is at the forefront of what we do.”
PFI also listed two of Ex-Im Bank’s 2013 Middle East transactions on its “Roll of Honour,” namely, Ex-Im Bank’s direct loan to the Sadara Chemical Company for the construction of a petrochemical plant in Saudi Arabia and the Bank’s direct loan to Emirates Aluminum Company Ltd. for the expansion of a smelter complex in the U.A.E.
The Sadara transaction still ranks as Ex-Im Bank’s largest authorization in its history and supported a record 18,400 American jobs, including 2,300 small-business jobs.
Project Finance International Names Ex-Im Bank “Multilateral” of the Year
Washington, D.C. – The Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank) was named 2013’s Global Multilateral of the Year by Project Finance International (PFI) in recognition of the Bank’s “game-changing” deals and its strategic portfolio expansion.
“We are very appreciative of Project Finance International’s recognition of our work on behalf of U.S. exporters and their operations abroad,” said Export-Import Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg. “In today’s hyper-competitive environment, Ex-Im Bank’s role is indispensable for responding to gaps in export financing and leveling the playing field for U.S. exporters. Supporting American jobs is at the forefront of what we do.”
PFI also listed two of Ex-Im Bank’s 2013 Middle East transactions on its “Roll of Honour,” namely, Ex-Im Bank’s direct loan to the Sadara Chemical Company for the construction of a petrochemical plant in Saudi Arabia and the Bank’s direct loan to Emirates Aluminum Company Ltd. for the expansion of a smelter complex in the U.A.E.
The Sadara transaction still ranks as Ex-Im Bank’s largest authorization in its history and supported a record 18,400 American jobs, including 2,300 small-business jobs.
LANDSAT 8 CELEBRATES ONE YEAR IN SPACE
On Feb. 11, 2013, the Landsat 8 satellite rocketed into a sunny California morning aboard a powerful Atlas V and began its life in orbit. In the year since launch, scientists have been working to understand the information the satellite has been sending back. Some have been calibrating the data—checking it against ground observations and matching it to the rest of the 42-year-long Landsat record. At the same time, the broader science community has been learning to use the new data.
The map above—one of the first complete views of the United States from Landsat 8—is an example of how scientists are testing Landsat 8 data. David Roy, a co-leader of the USGS-NASA Landsat science team and researcher at South Dakota State University, made the map with observations taken during August 2013 by the satellite’s Operational Land Imager. The strips in the image above are a result of the way Landsat 8 operates. Like its predecessors, Landsat 8 collects data in 185-kilometer (115-mile) wide strips called swaths or paths. Each orbit follows a predetermined ground track so that the same path is imaged each time an orbit is repeated. It takes 233 paths and 16 days to cover all of the land on Earth. This means that every land surface has the potential to be imaged once every 16 days, giving Roy two or three opportunities to get a cloud-free view of each pixel in the United States in a month. Image Credit-NASA-David Roy.
FTC SETTLES DECEPTIVE AD CHARGES AGAINST TWO AUTO DEALERS
FROM: FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Involving Two Auto Dealers’ Deceptive Ads
Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission approved final consent orders settling charges that two automotive dealers deceptively advertised the cost or available discounts for their vehicles.
The FTC charged Don White’s Timonium Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Cockeysville, Md., with advertising “dealer discounts” and “internet prices” not available to a typical consumer. Ganley Ford West, Inc., in Cleveland, was charged with misrepresenting that vehicles were available at a specific dealer discount, when in fact the discounts only applied to specific, and more expensive, models of the advertised vehicles.
Under the settlements, both dealers are prohibited from advertising discounts or prices unless the ads clearly disclose any qualifications or restrictions. The settlements also prohibit the auto dealers from making misrepresentations regarding the existence, price, value coverage, or features of any product or service associated with the motor vehicle purchase, and the number of vehicles available at particular prices.
Both cases are part of the FTC’s ongoing efforts to combat deceptive motor vehicle dealer practices. The FTC announced these cases in September 2013 as well as a nationwide sweep against 10 other dealers in January 2014.
The Commission vote to approve the final orders was 4-0.
FTC Approves Final Order Settling Charges Involving Two Auto Dealers’ Deceptive Ads
Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission approved final consent orders settling charges that two automotive dealers deceptively advertised the cost or available discounts for their vehicles.
The FTC charged Don White’s Timonium Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Cockeysville, Md., with advertising “dealer discounts” and “internet prices” not available to a typical consumer. Ganley Ford West, Inc., in Cleveland, was charged with misrepresenting that vehicles were available at a specific dealer discount, when in fact the discounts only applied to specific, and more expensive, models of the advertised vehicles.
Under the settlements, both dealers are prohibited from advertising discounts or prices unless the ads clearly disclose any qualifications or restrictions. The settlements also prohibit the auto dealers from making misrepresentations regarding the existence, price, value coverage, or features of any product or service associated with the motor vehicle purchase, and the number of vehicles available at particular prices.
Both cases are part of the FTC’s ongoing efforts to combat deceptive motor vehicle dealer practices. The FTC announced these cases in September 2013 as well as a nationwide sweep against 10 other dealers in January 2014.
The Commission vote to approve the final orders was 4-0.
DOJ PROPOSES BAZAARVOICE SELL POWERREVIEW ASSETS TO REMEDY UNLAWFUL ACQUISITION
FROM: U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Department of Justice Proposes Remedy to Address Bazaarvoice’s Unlawful Acquisition of PowerReviews
Remedy Would Require Bazaarvoice to Sell All PowerReviews Assets; Provide Syndication Services to the Divestiture Buyer; Remove Trade-Secret Restrictions for Employees Hired by the Divestiture Buyer
The Department of Justice today submitted to the court a proposed remedy to address Bazaarvoice Inc.’s unlawful acquisition of PowerReviews Inc., following the Jan. 8, 2014, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California finding that Bazaarvoice violated Section 7 of the Clayton Act when it acquired PowerReviews, its closest and only serious competitor. The proposed remedy is intended to restore competition in the provision of online ratings and reviews.
“Bazaarvoice’s unlawful acquisition of PowerReviews has deprived customers of the benefits of competition for 20 months,” said Assistant Attorney General Bill Baer in charge of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. “The department’s proposed remedy will restore the competitive landscape by enabling another company to replicate the critical competitive role that PowerReviews would be playing today had it not been illegally acquired by Bazaarvoice.”
Since the merger closed, Bazaarvoice has not invested in research and development for the PowerReviews platform, and it has migrated customers away from the PowerReviews platform to its own product, the department said. The department’s proposed remedy, if approved by the court, requires Bazaarvoice to sell all of PowerReviews assets and contains other provisions to compensate for the deterioration of PowerReviews’ business. Under the department’s proposal, Bazaarvoice would be required to provide syndication services to the divestiture buyer, allowing the buyer to build its customer base and develop its own syndication network. Bazaarvoice would also be required to waive trade-secret restrictions for any of its employees who are hired by the divestiture buyer, enabling the buyer to leverage Bazaarvoice’s post-merger research and development efforts.
If the PowerReviews assets have diminished so significantly that the asset sale would not transfer a large number of customers to the divestiture buyer, Bazaarvoice would also be required to license a copy of its latest ratings and reviews platform to the divestiture buyer, under the proposed remedy. Additionally, the department is asking the court to appoint a special master to oversee the divestiture process and monitor Bazaarvoice’s compliance with its other obligations under the proposed remedy.
On Jan. 10, 2013, the department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against Bazaarvoice. The department alleged that Bazaarvoice’s June 2012 acquisition of PowerReviews eliminated the company’s only significant rival, in violation of the antitrust laws.
Bazaarvoice’s acquisition of PowerReviews was not required to be reported under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, which requires companies to notify and provide information to the department and the Federal Trade Commission before consummating certain acquisitions. The department began its investigation shortly after the transaction closed.
The department’s trial against Bazaarvoice, which was overseen by Judge William Orrick, began on Sept. 23, 2013. The trial lasted three weeks, with closing arguments taking place on Oct. 15, 2013. On Jan. 8, 2014, the court found that Bazaarvoice violated Section 7 of the Clayton Act by acquiring its primary rival, PowerReviews.
Bazaarvoice’s opposition to the department’s proposed remedy must be filed with the court by March 5, 2014. If the court determines that a hearing is necessary, it will be held on April 2, 2014.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
Department of Justice Proposes Remedy to Address Bazaarvoice’s Unlawful Acquisition of PowerReviews
Remedy Would Require Bazaarvoice to Sell All PowerReviews Assets; Provide Syndication Services to the Divestiture Buyer; Remove Trade-Secret Restrictions for Employees Hired by the Divestiture Buyer
The Department of Justice today submitted to the court a proposed remedy to address Bazaarvoice Inc.’s unlawful acquisition of PowerReviews Inc., following the Jan. 8, 2014, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California finding that Bazaarvoice violated Section 7 of the Clayton Act when it acquired PowerReviews, its closest and only serious competitor. The proposed remedy is intended to restore competition in the provision of online ratings and reviews.
“Bazaarvoice’s unlawful acquisition of PowerReviews has deprived customers of the benefits of competition for 20 months,” said Assistant Attorney General Bill Baer in charge of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. “The department’s proposed remedy will restore the competitive landscape by enabling another company to replicate the critical competitive role that PowerReviews would be playing today had it not been illegally acquired by Bazaarvoice.”
Since the merger closed, Bazaarvoice has not invested in research and development for the PowerReviews platform, and it has migrated customers away from the PowerReviews platform to its own product, the department said. The department’s proposed remedy, if approved by the court, requires Bazaarvoice to sell all of PowerReviews assets and contains other provisions to compensate for the deterioration of PowerReviews’ business. Under the department’s proposal, Bazaarvoice would be required to provide syndication services to the divestiture buyer, allowing the buyer to build its customer base and develop its own syndication network. Bazaarvoice would also be required to waive trade-secret restrictions for any of its employees who are hired by the divestiture buyer, enabling the buyer to leverage Bazaarvoice’s post-merger research and development efforts.
If the PowerReviews assets have diminished so significantly that the asset sale would not transfer a large number of customers to the divestiture buyer, Bazaarvoice would also be required to license a copy of its latest ratings and reviews platform to the divestiture buyer, under the proposed remedy. Additionally, the department is asking the court to appoint a special master to oversee the divestiture process and monitor Bazaarvoice’s compliance with its other obligations under the proposed remedy.
On Jan. 10, 2013, the department filed a civil antitrust lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against Bazaarvoice. The department alleged that Bazaarvoice’s June 2012 acquisition of PowerReviews eliminated the company’s only significant rival, in violation of the antitrust laws.
Bazaarvoice’s acquisition of PowerReviews was not required to be reported under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, which requires companies to notify and provide information to the department and the Federal Trade Commission before consummating certain acquisitions. The department began its investigation shortly after the transaction closed.
The department’s trial against Bazaarvoice, which was overseen by Judge William Orrick, began on Sept. 23, 2013. The trial lasted three weeks, with closing arguments taking place on Oct. 15, 2013. On Jan. 8, 2014, the court found that Bazaarvoice violated Section 7 of the Clayton Act by acquiring its primary rival, PowerReviews.
Bazaarvoice’s opposition to the department’s proposed remedy must be filed with the court by March 5, 2014. If the court determines that a hearing is necessary, it will be held on April 2, 2014.
READOUT: VP BIDEN MEETING WITH KING ABDULLAH II OF JORDAN
FROM: THE WHITE HOUSE
Readout of Vice President Biden’s Meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan
The Vice President hosted His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan for breakfast at the Naval Observatory. The Vice President and the King discussed ongoing efforts to bring about a political transition and an end to the conflict in Syria. They spoke about how best to address the growing threat of violent extremism fueled by the Syrian conflict. The Vice President and the King agreed on the urgent need for greater humanitarian access inside Syria and continued support for Syrian refugees and host communities. The Vice President voiced U.S. support for the King’s efforts to achieve political and economic progress. Both sides expressed appreciation for the enduring strength of the U.S.-Jordan partnership. The King will meet with President Obama in Rancho Mirage, California, on Friday.
Readout of Vice President Biden’s Meeting with His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan
The Vice President hosted His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan for breakfast at the Naval Observatory. The Vice President and the King discussed ongoing efforts to bring about a political transition and an end to the conflict in Syria. They spoke about how best to address the growing threat of violent extremism fueled by the Syrian conflict. The Vice President and the King agreed on the urgent need for greater humanitarian access inside Syria and continued support for Syrian refugees and host communities. The Vice President voiced U.S. support for the King’s efforts to achieve political and economic progress. Both sides expressed appreciation for the enduring strength of the U.S.-Jordan partnership. The King will meet with President Obama in Rancho Mirage, California, on Friday.
DEFENSE CONTRACTOR WILL PAY $3,2 BILLION FOR FALSE LABOR CHARGES
FROM: JUSTICE DEPARTMENT
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
MPRI Inc. Agrees to Pay $3.2 Million for False Labor Charges on Contract to Support Army in Afghanistan
MPRI Inc. has agreed to pay $3.2 million to resolve allegations that it submitted false labor charges on a contract to support the Army in Afghanistan, the Justice Department announced today. MPRI is a Chantilly, Virginia-based company.
“We will not tolerate contractors that bill for work that is not performed,” said Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division Stuart F. Delery. “The Department of Justice will pursue those who do not comply with the terms of their bargain with the government and restore to the taxpayers the full measure of funds falsely claimed.”
The government alleged that MPRI billed for employees who had not worked because they had been granted leave and were out of the country. The alleged false billing occurred between March 2005 and October 2010.
Under its contract with the Army, MPRI was required to provide support to the Army in its efforts to re-design and build from scratch a new Afghan Defense Sector that would establish an Afghan national security system suitable for a modern Western military. Among other things, MPRI was required to provide support for program and financial management, development and implementation of core systems for the Afghan Ministry of Defense and General Staff, intermediate Commands, and sustaining institutions, training in logistics, acquisitions, installation management and intelligence.
“Our job with our partner agencies is to ensure that the government gets what it pays for,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Carter Stewart. “Our office will make every effort to ensure that government contractors submit claims in strict compliance with contract terms and take no liberties in the submission of claims for payment.”
The allegations arose from a whistleblower lawsuit filed by Byron Scott Lankford under the False Claims Act, which permits private individuals to bring lawsuits on behalf of the government and to share in the proceeds of any settlement or judgment. MPRI employed Lankford in Afghanistan between 2007 and 2009 as a finance officer and contract support official. Lankford will receive $576,000 as his share of the settlement amount.
The settlement announced today was the result of a coordinated effort by the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and an investigative team that included the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Defense Contract Audit Agency. The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
MPRI Inc. Agrees to Pay $3.2 Million for False Labor Charges on Contract to Support Army in Afghanistan
MPRI Inc. has agreed to pay $3.2 million to resolve allegations that it submitted false labor charges on a contract to support the Army in Afghanistan, the Justice Department announced today. MPRI is a Chantilly, Virginia-based company.
“We will not tolerate contractors that bill for work that is not performed,” said Assistant Attorney General for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division Stuart F. Delery. “The Department of Justice will pursue those who do not comply with the terms of their bargain with the government and restore to the taxpayers the full measure of funds falsely claimed.”
The government alleged that MPRI billed for employees who had not worked because they had been granted leave and were out of the country. The alleged false billing occurred between March 2005 and October 2010.
Under its contract with the Army, MPRI was required to provide support to the Army in its efforts to re-design and build from scratch a new Afghan Defense Sector that would establish an Afghan national security system suitable for a modern Western military. Among other things, MPRI was required to provide support for program and financial management, development and implementation of core systems for the Afghan Ministry of Defense and General Staff, intermediate Commands, and sustaining institutions, training in logistics, acquisitions, installation management and intelligence.
“Our job with our partner agencies is to ensure that the government gets what it pays for,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio Carter Stewart. “Our office will make every effort to ensure that government contractors submit claims in strict compliance with contract terms and take no liberties in the submission of claims for payment.”
The allegations arose from a whistleblower lawsuit filed by Byron Scott Lankford under the False Claims Act, which permits private individuals to bring lawsuits on behalf of the government and to share in the proceeds of any settlement or judgment. MPRI employed Lankford in Afghanistan between 2007 and 2009 as a finance officer and contract support official. Lankford will receive $576,000 as his share of the settlement amount.
The settlement announced today was the result of a coordinated effort by the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio and an investigative team that included the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Defense Contract Audit Agency. The claims settled by this agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
RICK FLEMING NAMED FIRST HEAD OFFICE OF THE INVESTOR ADVOCATE
FROM: SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
The Securities and Exchange Commission announced that Rick A. Fleming has been named as the first head of the agency’s Office of the Investor Advocate.
As the Investor Advocate, Mr. Fleming will lead an office charged with assisting retail investors in interactions with the Commission and with self-regulatory organizations (SROs), identifying areas where investors would benefit from changes in, and analyzing the impact of, the rules and regulations of the Commission and SROs, identifying problems that investors have with financial service providers and investment products and proposing related changes to promote the interests of investors.
Mr. Fleming, currently deputy general counsel with the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), will assume his new role on Feb. 24, 2014.
“I am very pleased that Rick will be joining the Commission as its inaugural director of our Office of the Investor Advocate,” said Mary Jo White, Chair of the SEC. “Rick brings a depth of experience advocating for the interests of investors, a keen understanding of the markets, and a true passion for investor protection.”
Mr. Fleming has been NASAA’s deputy general counsel since October 2011, where he advocated for investors and represented the organization of state securities regulators before Congress and federal agencies, including the SEC. Previously, he spent more than 20 years in state government in Kansas working in the Office of the Secretary of State, the Office of the Governor, and the Office of the Securities Commissioner.
“It is a great honor to be appointed as the first Investor Advocate at the Commission, where I will work alongside the many talented professionals at the SEC who have dedicated their careers to the protection of investors. I look forward to helping ensure that investors are always heard and treated fairly,” said Mr. Fleming.
Mr. Fleming worked from 1996 until 2011 in the Office of the Securities Commissioner in Kansas, first as associate general counsel and later as general counsel, where he represented the state in disciplinary proceedings against broker-dealers and investment advisers, prosecuted civil and criminal securities-fraud cases, reviewed public securities offerings, drafted legislation, and testified before the state legislature on securities and investor-protection matters.
Mr. Fleming received his bachelor’s degree with a dual major in finance and economics from Washburn University and holds a law degree from Wake Forest University.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act established an Office of the Investor Advocate at the SEC and required appointment of an Investor Advocate to report to the Chair, to lead the new office.
The Securities and Exchange Commission announced that Rick A. Fleming has been named as the first head of the agency’s Office of the Investor Advocate.
As the Investor Advocate, Mr. Fleming will lead an office charged with assisting retail investors in interactions with the Commission and with self-regulatory organizations (SROs), identifying areas where investors would benefit from changes in, and analyzing the impact of, the rules and regulations of the Commission and SROs, identifying problems that investors have with financial service providers and investment products and proposing related changes to promote the interests of investors.
Mr. Fleming, currently deputy general counsel with the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), will assume his new role on Feb. 24, 2014.
“I am very pleased that Rick will be joining the Commission as its inaugural director of our Office of the Investor Advocate,” said Mary Jo White, Chair of the SEC. “Rick brings a depth of experience advocating for the interests of investors, a keen understanding of the markets, and a true passion for investor protection.”
Mr. Fleming has been NASAA’s deputy general counsel since October 2011, where he advocated for investors and represented the organization of state securities regulators before Congress and federal agencies, including the SEC. Previously, he spent more than 20 years in state government in Kansas working in the Office of the Secretary of State, the Office of the Governor, and the Office of the Securities Commissioner.
“It is a great honor to be appointed as the first Investor Advocate at the Commission, where I will work alongside the many talented professionals at the SEC who have dedicated their careers to the protection of investors. I look forward to helping ensure that investors are always heard and treated fairly,” said Mr. Fleming.
Mr. Fleming worked from 1996 until 2011 in the Office of the Securities Commissioner in Kansas, first as associate general counsel and later as general counsel, where he represented the state in disciplinary proceedings against broker-dealers and investment advisers, prosecuted civil and criminal securities-fraud cases, reviewed public securities offerings, drafted legislation, and testified before the state legislature on securities and investor-protection matters.
Mr. Fleming received his bachelor’s degree with a dual major in finance and economics from Washburn University and holds a law degree from Wake Forest University.
The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act established an Office of the Investor Advocate at the SEC and required appointment of an Investor Advocate to report to the Chair, to lead the new office.
"WATCH OUT FOR ONLINE DATING SCAMS" FTC WARNS
FROM: FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION
FTC Warning: Watch Out for Online Dating Scams
If you’re looking for love, you might end up on an online dating site, where, as some people will attest, you’ll meet all kinds of people. Unfortunately, though, you might just meet some scammers. So, especially as Valentine’s Day nears, look out for warning signs of a scam, such as any request for money for any reason, and any mention of wiring money.
The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them.
FTC Warning: Watch Out for Online Dating Scams
If you’re looking for love, you might end up on an online dating site, where, as some people will attest, you’ll meet all kinds of people. Unfortunately, though, you might just meet some scammers. So, especially as Valentine’s Day nears, look out for warning signs of a scam, such as any request for money for any reason, and any mention of wiring money.
The Federal Trade Commission works for consumers to prevent fraudulent, deceptive, and unfair business practices and to provide information to help spot, stop, and avoid them.
EXPORT-IMPORT BANK CELEBRATES 8OTH BIRTHDAY
FROM: EXPORT-IMPORT BANK
Ex-Im Bank celebrates 80th Anniversary
Chairman Hochberg Marks Eight Decades of Supporting American Jobs
Washington, D.C. – Today the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank), the nation’s official export-credit agency, marks its 80th anniversary of promoting U.S. exports abroad and supporting U.S. jobs at home.
In its eight decades of operation, Ex-Im Bank has authorized an estimated $506 billion to finance the export of U.S. goods and services around the globe and supported millions of American jobs. In 2013, nearly 90% of the Bank’s transactions benefitted small businesses.
“Today we say happy birthday to a great American success story,” said Export-Import Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg. “Over 80 years, the Export Import Bank has supported millions of American jobs and financed over $500 billion in goods stamped ‘Made in the USA,’ and we’ve done it all while generating billions of dollars in revenue for U.S. taxpayers.”
Founded in 1934 by FDR as the Export-Import Bank of Washington, the Bank was “organized with power to aid in financing and to facilitate exports and imports…” so as to boost job growth in Depression-devastated America. After an early reorganization, the Bank soon expanded its scope and approved loan packages in more than 30 countries, half of which were in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Below are some key dates in Ex-Im Bank’s transactional history.
1938… The Bank extended a $22 million loan to China for construction of the “Burma Road.”
1941… The Bank provided a line of credit for the Pan-American Highway.
1948… Ex-Im Bank administers funds for economic cooperation under the Marshall Plan.
1981… Ex-Im Bank cleared its first transaction in the People’s Republic of China. Two direct credits of $57.1 million supported the purchase of power-generation equipment manufactured by Westinghouse Electric and Combustion Engineering.
2012… Ex-Im Bank closed the largest deal of its history, a $4.975 billion direct loan to the Sadara Chemical Company of Saudi Arabia that supported approximately 18,000 U.S. jobs. Total authorizations for the same year surpassed $35.7 billion, and job support reached an estimated 255,000.
2013… Ex-Im Bank logged a record number of small-business transactions and generated more than $1 billion in earnings for the U.S. Treasury.
Ex-Im Bank celebrates 80th Anniversary
Chairman Hochberg Marks Eight Decades of Supporting American Jobs
Washington, D.C. – Today the Export-Import Bank of the United States (Ex-Im Bank), the nation’s official export-credit agency, marks its 80th anniversary of promoting U.S. exports abroad and supporting U.S. jobs at home.
In its eight decades of operation, Ex-Im Bank has authorized an estimated $506 billion to finance the export of U.S. goods and services around the globe and supported millions of American jobs. In 2013, nearly 90% of the Bank’s transactions benefitted small businesses.
“Today we say happy birthday to a great American success story,” said Export-Import Bank Chairman and President Fred P. Hochberg. “Over 80 years, the Export Import Bank has supported millions of American jobs and financed over $500 billion in goods stamped ‘Made in the USA,’ and we’ve done it all while generating billions of dollars in revenue for U.S. taxpayers.”
Founded in 1934 by FDR as the Export-Import Bank of Washington, the Bank was “organized with power to aid in financing and to facilitate exports and imports…” so as to boost job growth in Depression-devastated America. After an early reorganization, the Bank soon expanded its scope and approved loan packages in more than 30 countries, half of which were in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Below are some key dates in Ex-Im Bank’s transactional history.
1938… The Bank extended a $22 million loan to China for construction of the “Burma Road.”
1941… The Bank provided a line of credit for the Pan-American Highway.
1948… Ex-Im Bank administers funds for economic cooperation under the Marshall Plan.
1981… Ex-Im Bank cleared its first transaction in the People’s Republic of China. Two direct credits of $57.1 million supported the purchase of power-generation equipment manufactured by Westinghouse Electric and Combustion Engineering.
2012… Ex-Im Bank closed the largest deal of its history, a $4.975 billion direct loan to the Sadara Chemical Company of Saudi Arabia that supported approximately 18,000 U.S. jobs. Total authorizations for the same year surpassed $35.7 billion, and job support reached an estimated 255,000.
2013… Ex-Im Bank logged a record number of small-business transactions and generated more than $1 billion in earnings for the U.S. Treasury.
10 FINDINGS ABOUT THE BRAIN
FROM: NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
From dino brains to thought control--10 fascinating brain findings
Summaries of 10 findings about the brain that involve NSF-funded researchers
February 11, 2014
The human brain is the most complex and least understood biological structure in the known universe.
To advance brain science, President Obama in April 2012 announced the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative, which is co-led by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Even before BRAIN, NSF invested in fundamental brain research that produced amazing discoveries related to humans and animals. Here are 10 recent findings from NSF-funded brain research, running the gamut from insights about the brains of dinosaurs and octopuses to discoveries involving Alzheimer's, brain-controlled machines and more.
1. Surprise! Some types of wrinkles are good
Our human brain is relatively large for our body size and more wrinkled than the brains of other animals. Brain size and wrinkle numbers correlate with intelligence across species.
The outer layer of the human brain is covered by wrinkles, and the more of them the better. Why? Because these wrinkles increase the surface area available for neurons (the functional units of information processing) without increasing head size--good for women during childbirth. Human brain wrinkles are thought to be almost as hereditary as human height.
Elizabeth Atkinson of Washington University in St. Louis recently identified chromosome segments and genes that correlate with wrinkle numbers in about 1,000 baboons, which are genetically similar to humans. The next step: Pinpointing exactly where in these genetic regions folding patterns originate, which would provide insights into the evolution of the human brain.
2. Dinosaurs: Not big and dumb, after all--just big?
A new map of a generalized dinosaur brain suggests the possible existence of a cerebrum, a brain part that controls complex cognitive behaviors in mammals. Although scientists don't know what functions dinosaur cerebrums may have controlled, their existence would suggest that dinosaurs may have performed more complex behaviors than previously believed--such as forming social groups and possibly communicating.
The map is based on inferences from the genetics and organization of crocodile and bird brains. Crocodiles pre-date many dinosaurs and are their closest living relatives, while birds post-date dinosaurs.
Because crocodiles, dinosaurs and birds form an evolutionary chain, scientists believe that these animals' brain structures shared important traits, and so key features of dinosaur brains may be deduced from crocodile and bird brains.
The brain map is also based on fossilized dinosaur skull cavities, which yield implications about the shape of dinosaur brains. Such evidence provides the best clues to the dinosaur brain in the absence of any known fossilized brain tissue from dinosaurs. The dinosaur brain map was created by a team led by Erich Jarvis of Duke University.
3. A possible explanation for Einstein's intelligence
Studies of Einstein's brain conducted in the 1980s revealed that Einstein had an unusually large number of brain cells, called glia, in his cerebral cortex, and that one type of his glia was unusually large and complexly shaped. Though lacking statistical significance, these studies helped generate interest in glia.
Glia had long been dismissed as connective tissue that doesn't contribute to learning and memory, as do neurons. This idea had become entrenched because glia don't generate electrical signals--considered to be the core of brain function--as do neurons.
Harder evidence of the glia's influence on intelligence includes a 2013 study involving the injection of human glia into the brains of newborn mice. As adults, the injected mice became faster learners than control subjects.
Also, two recent papers promoted a new consensus among leading brain scientists about the importance of glia--which may even aid learning. How? Brain imaging indicates that when people learn new skills, from juggling to playing computer games, the structure of specific brain regions changes. These changes may be due to the glia's formation of myelin, a fatty insulating substance, around axons (nerve fibers), which speeds the transmission of electrical signals from axons.
4. In mind-computer melds, brains still important
A brain-computer connection is a partnership: A human brain tells a machine what to do and the machine responds accordingly.
When this type of partnership works, a brain and machine may accomplish amazing things together. For example, in experiments, students flew model helicopters using their thoughts via special head caps equipped with sensors that decoded their brain activity. In similar setups, people with physical disabilities used a robotic arm to grab cups of coffee.
But humans often struggle to control their mechanical partners, partly because it takes significant time to learn how to do so. One way to reduce this training time may be to improve mind/body awareness--as indicated by a recent study led by Bin He, director of the Center for Neuroengineering at the University of Minnesota. His results showed that that training in mind/body awareness through practices such as yoga or meditation enabled people to master a brain-computer interface almost five times faster than untrained people did.
Even as brain-computer connections are made more user-friendly, He's results underscore the continuing importance of the human element for these systems.
5. Scientists may be able to predict when you'll be primed for risky business
Recent advances in brain imaging technology may allow researchers to predict whether someone will make a safe or a risky financial decision based on certain types of brain activity prior to deciding.
According to Brian Knutson and Charlene C. Wu of Stanford University, people who expect to win big show increased activity in certain brain regions, including the nucleus accumbens, which is associated with reward and pleasure, whereas those who expect to lose show increased activity in the anterior insula, which is linked to anxiety and disgust.
The more money at stake, the more activity is seen in those regions. But while more activity in the nucleus accumbens encouraged risk-taking, more activity in the anterior insula reduced risk taking.
These findings imply that when people are more excited, they will take bigger risks. In fact, long-shot wins (like potential lottery wins) powerfully increased both excitement and nucleus accumbens activity, encouraging people to take risks, even as they strayed from the choices of a "rational" person.
Studying people's brains while they consider their risk-taking options reveals insights about why people make certain financial decisions. These findings have implications for individual patterns of risk-taking--such as saving for a 401K--as well as for basic theories that describe group behavior.
6. Cell-based therapy may ultimately help beat back brain cancers
Brain tumors are the second-leading cause of U.S. cancer-related deaths, with 70,000 diagnoses of this invariably deadly disease made annually.
Now, Stefan Bossmann and Deryl Troyer of Kansas State University are working to improve a type of promising cell therapy that has yet to be used successfully. The researchers' therapy would work by collecting a cancer patient's blood; refurbishing selected white blood cells with "cargo holds" or closed cavities that would be filled with anticancer drugs; and then re-injecting the patient's blood to deliver drugs directly to tumors.
Previous efforts to develop this type of cell therapy produced weak, leaky medicinal cavities that killed carrier cells, not tumors. But the researchers are improving these cavities by developing a new type of material for them that forms something akin to a self-assembling artificial bubble--designed to be selectively absorbed by the right type of white blood cells, remain strong enough to hold medicine and naturally self-destruct upon reaching tumors.
Cell therapy delivers significantly more anticancer drugs to tumors than does conventional chemotherapy and nanotherapy, without damaging the body's immune system.
With preliminary experiments in mice competed, the therapy will soon be used to specifically target mice tumors for the first time, with the hope that this therapy will ultimately be able to be successfully used on human brain tumors.
7. The octopus: The eyes have it--literally
The octopus is a successful predator, partly because it has excellent eyesight--the best of any invertebrate--which enables it to visually zero in and focus on its prey.
What's more, each of the octopus's eight agile, boneless arms is equipped with about 44 million nerve cells (almost 10 percent of all of its neurons). These arm neurons are connected to the animal's brain.
When an octopus spots a tasty-looking fish, resulting visual information travels from the animal's eye to its brain. This information then travels through its arm neurons to help these soft-bodied contortionists determine how to snatch the meal.
Conversely, tactile information, such as the feel of a crab's rough shell, travels back through the octopus's arm to its brain's learning and memory centers to help these clever animals improve their hunting skills.
A team led by Clifton Ragsdale of the University of Chicago is the first to use modern molecular techniques to study how the octopus's unique nervous system processes visual information, and if the octopus's processing system significantly differs from that of vertebrates. If such differences are found, they may reveal alternative ways for brains to process visual information and learn. Resulting insights may yield important applications for robotics and image detection devices.
8. Birds' responses to climate change: It's all in their heads
Different bird species use different cues to determine when to migrate and to reproduce. Whether any particular species will be able to adjust its timing of such activities fast enough to keep up with climate change may partly depend on which cues it uses.
To varying degrees, all bird species use day length as a cue. They measure day light and anticipate seasonal changes via light-activated receptors located deep in their brains. The light penetrates their skulls without even necessarily passing through their eyes.
Because day length is unaffected by climate change, some long-distance migrators, such as the pied-flycatcher, whose main migratory cue is day length, have maintained fairly consistent arrival times at their spring breeding grounds. Yet, spring temperatures now tend to increase earlier in the year because of climate change. So such migrators now tend to arrive at their breeding grounds late relative to premature springs--and, therefore, now miss insect population peaks upon which they previously feasted. With less to eat, such migrators are now producing fewer chicks, which may cause population declines.
Some bird species augment day length cues for migrating and/or breeding with other cues, like temperature changes, which are probably also processed in their brains. Changes in the timing of the migratory activities of some temperature-sensitive bird species correlate with climate change-related temperature changes.
But most studies of the processing of day length by birds have addressed only males. Now Nicole Perfito of the University of California, Berkeley is studying how females of two bird species process day length and other cues that influence the timing of egg laying--an important factor in their potential responses to climate change.
9. Still wanted: A complete parts list of the human brain
The human brain has about 100 billion neurons. But scientists don't yet have a complete inventory of the many types of brain cells that exist and their functions. They also don't understand how electrical and chemical signals from neurons produce thoughts, behaviors and actions.
Without such knowledge, scientists cannot yet explain how traumatic injuries and neurodegenerative diseases impair brain function or should be treated. By comparison, imagine a mechanic trying to fix a car engine without a complete parts list and/or an understanding of how its engine runs!
Yet, new types of brain cells are often being identified, partly because of new brain imaging techniques that can zoom in on the brain to reveal increasing detail, just as Google Maps can zoom in on neighborhoods.
But without a universal classification system, cell types that have already been discovered may have been named and classified according to inconsistent criteria, such as shape, function or location. Therefore, some newly "discovered" cell types may really be rediscovered, renamed cell types.
To standardize the naming of neurons and create a universally accepted inventory of neuron types, Edward Boyden of MIT and others are working with the Allen Institute for Brain Science to create the first comprehensive database of types of brain cells.
10. Designer antibodies may ultimately help fight Alzheimer's
Antibodies, which are proteins traditionally made by the body's immune system in response to invaders, are already established allies in our fight against the flu virus and other harmful entities. Now, they are being engineered to treat and possibly protect us against disease-linked proteins, such as those associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Such engineering requires designing antibodies that have extreme targeting capabilities so that they can be directed to go where and do exactly what is needed. Antibodies used for therapeutic or experimental reasons are usually taken from immunized animals or enormous antibody libraries. So it's difficult to custom-order them.
Peter Tessier of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y., is working to engineer antibodies that have precise properties. By placing DNA sequences of the target protein within antibodies, Tessier may design antibodies to bind to select proteins, such as beta-amyloid plaques, a protein linked with Alzheimer's. Further research may lead to the development of antibodies that recognize and remove toxic particles before they do harm.
Editor's Note: This Behind the Scenes article was first provided to LiveScience in partnership with the National Science Foundation.
-- Sarah Bates, National Science Foundation (703) 292-7738 sabates@nsf.gov
-- Lily Whiteman, National Science Foundation (703) 292-8070 lwhitema@nsf.gov
Investigators
Bin He
Uri Eden
Earl Miller
Beth Stevens
Deryl Troyer
Erich Jarvis
Nancy Kopell
Brian Knutson
Claudio Mello
Edward Boyden
Peter Tessier
George Bentley
James Cheverud
Richard Fields
Stefan Bossmann
Clifton Ragsdale
Matti Hamalainen
Elizabeth Atkinson
Related Institutions/Organizations
Duke University
Stanford University
University of Chicago
Kansas State University
Trustees of Boston University
Duke University Medical Center
Children's Hospital Corporation
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
University of California-Berkeley
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Washington University School of Medicine
Related Awards
#0229351 Alan T. Waterman Award
#1021909 Octopus Neural Systems
#0748915 Anticipatory Affect and Financial Risk Taking
#1042134 Cognitive Rhythms Collaborative: A Discovery Network
#0920753 Neuroendocrine Mechanisms of Reproduction in Songbirds
#1242765 INSPIRE: Neutrophil Delivery of Apoptosis-Inducing Anticancer Drugs
#0933067 Neuroimaging of Motor Imagery for Brain Computer Interface Applications
#1159943 Design of conformation-specific antibodies against unfolded and misfolded proteins
#1258562 Glial Biology of Learning and Cognition, to be held in Arlington, Virginia, February, 2013
#0084357 Multiple Disciplinary Collaborative Research: Evolution of Brain Structures for Vocal Learning in Birds
#1260844 Doctoral Dissertation Improvement: The evolution and genetic basis of primate brain cortical gyrification in a pedigreed Papio population
Total Grants
$6,908,570
From dino brains to thought control--10 fascinating brain findings
Summaries of 10 findings about the brain that involve NSF-funded researchers
February 11, 2014
The human brain is the most complex and least understood biological structure in the known universe.
To advance brain science, President Obama in April 2012 announced the Brain Research through Advancing Innovative Neurotechnologies (BRAIN) Initiative, which is co-led by the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Even before BRAIN, NSF invested in fundamental brain research that produced amazing discoveries related to humans and animals. Here are 10 recent findings from NSF-funded brain research, running the gamut from insights about the brains of dinosaurs and octopuses to discoveries involving Alzheimer's, brain-controlled machines and more.
1. Surprise! Some types of wrinkles are good
Our human brain is relatively large for our body size and more wrinkled than the brains of other animals. Brain size and wrinkle numbers correlate with intelligence across species.
The outer layer of the human brain is covered by wrinkles, and the more of them the better. Why? Because these wrinkles increase the surface area available for neurons (the functional units of information processing) without increasing head size--good for women during childbirth. Human brain wrinkles are thought to be almost as hereditary as human height.
Elizabeth Atkinson of Washington University in St. Louis recently identified chromosome segments and genes that correlate with wrinkle numbers in about 1,000 baboons, which are genetically similar to humans. The next step: Pinpointing exactly where in these genetic regions folding patterns originate, which would provide insights into the evolution of the human brain.
2. Dinosaurs: Not big and dumb, after all--just big?
A new map of a generalized dinosaur brain suggests the possible existence of a cerebrum, a brain part that controls complex cognitive behaviors in mammals. Although scientists don't know what functions dinosaur cerebrums may have controlled, their existence would suggest that dinosaurs may have performed more complex behaviors than previously believed--such as forming social groups and possibly communicating.
The map is based on inferences from the genetics and organization of crocodile and bird brains. Crocodiles pre-date many dinosaurs and are their closest living relatives, while birds post-date dinosaurs.
Because crocodiles, dinosaurs and birds form an evolutionary chain, scientists believe that these animals' brain structures shared important traits, and so key features of dinosaur brains may be deduced from crocodile and bird brains.
The brain map is also based on fossilized dinosaur skull cavities, which yield implications about the shape of dinosaur brains. Such evidence provides the best clues to the dinosaur brain in the absence of any known fossilized brain tissue from dinosaurs. The dinosaur brain map was created by a team led by Erich Jarvis of Duke University.
3. A possible explanation for Einstein's intelligence
Studies of Einstein's brain conducted in the 1980s revealed that Einstein had an unusually large number of brain cells, called glia, in his cerebral cortex, and that one type of his glia was unusually large and complexly shaped. Though lacking statistical significance, these studies helped generate interest in glia.
Glia had long been dismissed as connective tissue that doesn't contribute to learning and memory, as do neurons. This idea had become entrenched because glia don't generate electrical signals--considered to be the core of brain function--as do neurons.
Harder evidence of the glia's influence on intelligence includes a 2013 study involving the injection of human glia into the brains of newborn mice. As adults, the injected mice became faster learners than control subjects.
Also, two recent papers promoted a new consensus among leading brain scientists about the importance of glia--which may even aid learning. How? Brain imaging indicates that when people learn new skills, from juggling to playing computer games, the structure of specific brain regions changes. These changes may be due to the glia's formation of myelin, a fatty insulating substance, around axons (nerve fibers), which speeds the transmission of electrical signals from axons.
4. In mind-computer melds, brains still important
A brain-computer connection is a partnership: A human brain tells a machine what to do and the machine responds accordingly.
When this type of partnership works, a brain and machine may accomplish amazing things together. For example, in experiments, students flew model helicopters using their thoughts via special head caps equipped with sensors that decoded their brain activity. In similar setups, people with physical disabilities used a robotic arm to grab cups of coffee.
But humans often struggle to control their mechanical partners, partly because it takes significant time to learn how to do so. One way to reduce this training time may be to improve mind/body awareness--as indicated by a recent study led by Bin He, director of the Center for Neuroengineering at the University of Minnesota. His results showed that that training in mind/body awareness through practices such as yoga or meditation enabled people to master a brain-computer interface almost five times faster than untrained people did.
Even as brain-computer connections are made more user-friendly, He's results underscore the continuing importance of the human element for these systems.
5. Scientists may be able to predict when you'll be primed for risky business
Recent advances in brain imaging technology may allow researchers to predict whether someone will make a safe or a risky financial decision based on certain types of brain activity prior to deciding.
According to Brian Knutson and Charlene C. Wu of Stanford University, people who expect to win big show increased activity in certain brain regions, including the nucleus accumbens, which is associated with reward and pleasure, whereas those who expect to lose show increased activity in the anterior insula, which is linked to anxiety and disgust.
The more money at stake, the more activity is seen in those regions. But while more activity in the nucleus accumbens encouraged risk-taking, more activity in the anterior insula reduced risk taking.
These findings imply that when people are more excited, they will take bigger risks. In fact, long-shot wins (like potential lottery wins) powerfully increased both excitement and nucleus accumbens activity, encouraging people to take risks, even as they strayed from the choices of a "rational" person.
Studying people's brains while they consider their risk-taking options reveals insights about why people make certain financial decisions. These findings have implications for individual patterns of risk-taking--such as saving for a 401K--as well as for basic theories that describe group behavior.
6. Cell-based therapy may ultimately help beat back brain cancers
Brain tumors are the second-leading cause of U.S. cancer-related deaths, with 70,000 diagnoses of this invariably deadly disease made annually.
Now, Stefan Bossmann and Deryl Troyer of Kansas State University are working to improve a type of promising cell therapy that has yet to be used successfully. The researchers' therapy would work by collecting a cancer patient's blood; refurbishing selected white blood cells with "cargo holds" or closed cavities that would be filled with anticancer drugs; and then re-injecting the patient's blood to deliver drugs directly to tumors.
Previous efforts to develop this type of cell therapy produced weak, leaky medicinal cavities that killed carrier cells, not tumors. But the researchers are improving these cavities by developing a new type of material for them that forms something akin to a self-assembling artificial bubble--designed to be selectively absorbed by the right type of white blood cells, remain strong enough to hold medicine and naturally self-destruct upon reaching tumors.
Cell therapy delivers significantly more anticancer drugs to tumors than does conventional chemotherapy and nanotherapy, without damaging the body's immune system.
With preliminary experiments in mice competed, the therapy will soon be used to specifically target mice tumors for the first time, with the hope that this therapy will ultimately be able to be successfully used on human brain tumors.
7. The octopus: The eyes have it--literally
The octopus is a successful predator, partly because it has excellent eyesight--the best of any invertebrate--which enables it to visually zero in and focus on its prey.
What's more, each of the octopus's eight agile, boneless arms is equipped with about 44 million nerve cells (almost 10 percent of all of its neurons). These arm neurons are connected to the animal's brain.
When an octopus spots a tasty-looking fish, resulting visual information travels from the animal's eye to its brain. This information then travels through its arm neurons to help these soft-bodied contortionists determine how to snatch the meal.
Conversely, tactile information, such as the feel of a crab's rough shell, travels back through the octopus's arm to its brain's learning and memory centers to help these clever animals improve their hunting skills.
A team led by Clifton Ragsdale of the University of Chicago is the first to use modern molecular techniques to study how the octopus's unique nervous system processes visual information, and if the octopus's processing system significantly differs from that of vertebrates. If such differences are found, they may reveal alternative ways for brains to process visual information and learn. Resulting insights may yield important applications for robotics and image detection devices.
8. Birds' responses to climate change: It's all in their heads
Different bird species use different cues to determine when to migrate and to reproduce. Whether any particular species will be able to adjust its timing of such activities fast enough to keep up with climate change may partly depend on which cues it uses.
To varying degrees, all bird species use day length as a cue. They measure day light and anticipate seasonal changes via light-activated receptors located deep in their brains. The light penetrates their skulls without even necessarily passing through their eyes.
Because day length is unaffected by climate change, some long-distance migrators, such as the pied-flycatcher, whose main migratory cue is day length, have maintained fairly consistent arrival times at their spring breeding grounds. Yet, spring temperatures now tend to increase earlier in the year because of climate change. So such migrators now tend to arrive at their breeding grounds late relative to premature springs--and, therefore, now miss insect population peaks upon which they previously feasted. With less to eat, such migrators are now producing fewer chicks, which may cause population declines.
Some bird species augment day length cues for migrating and/or breeding with other cues, like temperature changes, which are probably also processed in their brains. Changes in the timing of the migratory activities of some temperature-sensitive bird species correlate with climate change-related temperature changes.
But most studies of the processing of day length by birds have addressed only males. Now Nicole Perfito of the University of California, Berkeley is studying how females of two bird species process day length and other cues that influence the timing of egg laying--an important factor in their potential responses to climate change.
9. Still wanted: A complete parts list of the human brain
The human brain has about 100 billion neurons. But scientists don't yet have a complete inventory of the many types of brain cells that exist and their functions. They also don't understand how electrical and chemical signals from neurons produce thoughts, behaviors and actions.
Without such knowledge, scientists cannot yet explain how traumatic injuries and neurodegenerative diseases impair brain function or should be treated. By comparison, imagine a mechanic trying to fix a car engine without a complete parts list and/or an understanding of how its engine runs!
Yet, new types of brain cells are often being identified, partly because of new brain imaging techniques that can zoom in on the brain to reveal increasing detail, just as Google Maps can zoom in on neighborhoods.
But without a universal classification system, cell types that have already been discovered may have been named and classified according to inconsistent criteria, such as shape, function or location. Therefore, some newly "discovered" cell types may really be rediscovered, renamed cell types.
To standardize the naming of neurons and create a universally accepted inventory of neuron types, Edward Boyden of MIT and others are working with the Allen Institute for Brain Science to create the first comprehensive database of types of brain cells.
10. Designer antibodies may ultimately help fight Alzheimer's
Antibodies, which are proteins traditionally made by the body's immune system in response to invaders, are already established allies in our fight against the flu virus and other harmful entities. Now, they are being engineered to treat and possibly protect us against disease-linked proteins, such as those associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Such engineering requires designing antibodies that have extreme targeting capabilities so that they can be directed to go where and do exactly what is needed. Antibodies used for therapeutic or experimental reasons are usually taken from immunized animals or enormous antibody libraries. So it's difficult to custom-order them.
Peter Tessier of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, N.Y., is working to engineer antibodies that have precise properties. By placing DNA sequences of the target protein within antibodies, Tessier may design antibodies to bind to select proteins, such as beta-amyloid plaques, a protein linked with Alzheimer's. Further research may lead to the development of antibodies that recognize and remove toxic particles before they do harm.
Editor's Note: This Behind the Scenes article was first provided to LiveScience in partnership with the National Science Foundation.
-- Sarah Bates, National Science Foundation (703) 292-7738 sabates@nsf.gov
-- Lily Whiteman, National Science Foundation (703) 292-8070 lwhitema@nsf.gov
Investigators
Bin He
Uri Eden
Earl Miller
Beth Stevens
Deryl Troyer
Erich Jarvis
Nancy Kopell
Brian Knutson
Claudio Mello
Edward Boyden
Peter Tessier
George Bentley
James Cheverud
Richard Fields
Stefan Bossmann
Clifton Ragsdale
Matti Hamalainen
Elizabeth Atkinson
Related Institutions/Organizations
Duke University
Stanford University
University of Chicago
Kansas State University
Trustees of Boston University
Duke University Medical Center
Children's Hospital Corporation
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
University of California-Berkeley
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Washington University School of Medicine
Related Awards
#0229351 Alan T. Waterman Award
#1021909 Octopus Neural Systems
#0748915 Anticipatory Affect and Financial Risk Taking
#1042134 Cognitive Rhythms Collaborative: A Discovery Network
#0920753 Neuroendocrine Mechanisms of Reproduction in Songbirds
#1242765 INSPIRE: Neutrophil Delivery of Apoptosis-Inducing Anticancer Drugs
#0933067 Neuroimaging of Motor Imagery for Brain Computer Interface Applications
#1159943 Design of conformation-specific antibodies against unfolded and misfolded proteins
#1258562 Glial Biology of Learning and Cognition, to be held in Arlington, Virginia, February, 2013
#0084357 Multiple Disciplinary Collaborative Research: Evolution of Brain Structures for Vocal Learning in Birds
#1260844 Doctoral Dissertation Improvement: The evolution and genetic basis of primate brain cortical gyrification in a pedigreed Papio population
Total Grants
$6,908,570
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