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Federal Publications Seminars (FPS) Embraces Industry Standardization with Adoption of CMS™ and CMBOK®

National Contract Management Association

Federal Publications Seminars (FPS), a leading government contract training provider, has announced a significant milestone in its commitment to advancing the contract management profession. FPS proudly embraces the National Contract Management Association's (NCMA) ANSI Approved Contract Management Standard™ (CMS™) and the Contract Management Body of Knowledge (CMBOK®) as the cornerstone for hiring, career development, and training of contract management professionals. The CMS™, recognized as the standard global language of government contracting, and the comprehensive CMBOK® collectively offer a unified framework to define, discuss, and advance contract management phases, domains, competencies, and skills. “Our adoption of these standards reaffirms FPS’s support of NCMA and dedication to cultivating excellence and promoting a common language within the contract management community,” said Andy King, President of FPS. Mr. King stated, "By aligning our training courses with the adoption of CMS™ and CMBOK®, we are poised to provide even greater support to our thriving FPS education community. Our partnership and collaboration with the National Contract Management Association (NCMA) reinforces our commitment to cultivating a more robust, knowledgeable, and ethical federal government contracting industry." “Through this collaboration, FPS aims to empower its clients to not only meet compliance requirements but also gain a competitive edge by harnessing their newfound expertise. The synergy between FPS and NCMA promises a brighter future for professionals in the federal contracting arena,” Mr. King concluded. "We appreciate Federal Publications Seminar's commitment to advancing the contract management profession through the adoption of the CMS™ and CMBOK®. they join leading organizations on our journey toward common language to foster global excellence," stated Kraig Conrad, Chief Executive Officer of NCMA. This move aligns FPS with the Department of Defense, civilian agencies of the U.S. government, industry leaders, and higher education institutions that have also embraced the CMS™ for their hiring, training, and educational programs. FPS's commitment to these standards is not only a testament to its leadership in the profession, but also an expression of support for NCMA's pivotal role in advancing the profession. For more information on NCMA's Common Language Adoption, please visit: www.ncmahq.org/adopters The National Contract Management Association (NCMA), which was founded in 1959 and is the world’s leading association in the field of contract management. The organization, which has over 18,000 members, is dedicated to the professional growth and educational advancement of procurement and acquisition personnel worldwide. NCMA strives to serve and inform the profession and industry it represents and to offer opportunities for the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. To find out more, please visit www.ncmahq.org. About Federal Publication Seminars: Federal Publications Seminars (FPS) has been the leading provider of government contracts training and education for more than 60 years. FPS offers hundreds of in-person and online courses designed to provide in-house counsel, procurement officers, contract administrators, and accounting professionals and firms with solid, comprehensive opportunities to stay current on critical issues throughout the government contracting market. FPS instructors are nationally recognized leaders in the government contracting industry. For more information or to subscribe, visit fedpubseminars.com or call 888.494.3696. Follow FPS on social channels for the latest updates, class notifications and promotions @fedpubseminars. Contact Details National Contract Management Association Holly Dehesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

September 28, 2023 06:55 AM Eastern Daylight Time

SFAA, NASBP and a Coalition of Partners Strongly Support Bill Providing Essential Protections on WIFIA Financed Projects

SFAA

The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA), National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP), and a coalition of industry partners commend Senator Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND) for the introduction of S.2928, the “ Water Infrastructure Subcontractor and Taxpayer Protection Act”. This legislation provides essential protections for workers, suppliers and contractors by requiring payment protection on federally financed infrastructure projects receiving Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) assistance, including public-private projects (P3s). “Bonding WIFIA-financed P3 projects will protect taxpayer dollars, ensure project completion, protect local small business contractors and workers, and promote economic growth,” said Lee Covington, President and CEO of SFAA. “As more and more water infrastructure projects come online, and P3s become more common in the space, WIFIA must be modernized to include the same payment and performance requirements that protect all other federally funded infrastructure projects,” continued Covington. P3 projects have increased in popularity over the years; however, the lack of clarity for requiring payment and performance protections on P3 projects can force taxpayers to absorb additional costs of rebidding a project. Without the payment protections bonds provide, subcontractors, suppliers, and workers are often left unpaid for extended periods if the contractor defaults. The solution ensures parity for protections between traditional project delivery methods and P3 projects utilizing the WIFIA program, and the same protections required in the TIFIA program and other federally financed projects. In addition, surety bonds provide payment protections for workers, subcontractors, and suppliers and provide an economic benefit to taxpayers. A recent study by Ernst & Young (EY), The Economic Value of Surety Bonds, reported: Unbonded construction projects are more likely to default than bonded projects – by up to 10 times. When a contractor defaults on an unbonded construction project, the completion cost is 85% higher than on projects protected by surety bonds. 75% of public project owners report that surety bonding reduces contractor pricing by an average of 3.2%. Five times as many public project owners report bonded projects are more likely to be completed on time or ahead of schedule, and contractors prioritize bonded projects over unbonded projects. Read the entire EY report at www.surety.org/suretyprotects. “Construction is a risky business, and for over 80 years, the federal and state Miller Acts have protected against the risk of loss by requiring payment and performance bonds,” related Mark McCallum, CEO of NASBP. “NASBP and SFAA look forward to working with Senators Kelly and Cramer and the U.S. Congress, on a bipartisan basis, to pass this essential bill,” continued McCallum. The coalition of partners includes: American Property and Casualty Insurance Association American Subcontractors Association Business Coalition for Fair Competition Council of Insurance Agents and Brokers Finishing Contractors Association International International Union of Operating Engineers Mechanical Contractors Association of America National Electrical Contractors Association National Association of Minority Contractors National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies National Association of Surety Bond Producers Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association The Association of Union Constructors The Construction Employers of America The Surety & Fidelity Association of America Women Construction Owners and Executives The Surety & Fidelity Association of America (SFAA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan trade association representing all segments of the surety and fidelity industry. Based in Washington, D.C., SFAA works to promote the value of surety and fidelity bonding by proactively advocating on behalf of its members and stakeholders. The association’s more than 425 member companies write 98 percent of surety and fidelity bonds in the U.S. For more information visit www.surety.org. Founded in 1942, the National Association of Surety Bond Producers (NASBP) is the association of and resource for surety bond producers and allied professionals. NASBP members specialize in providing surety bonds for construction contracts and other purposes to companies and individuals needing the assurance offered by surety bonds. www.nasbp.org Contact Details SFAA Peter Roth +1 703-401-0676 proth@surety.org NASBP Kathy Hoffman +1 240-200-1278 khoffman@nasbp.org Company Website https://surety.org/

September 27, 2023 11:10 AM Eastern Daylight Time

VPN Trust Initiative: VPN Trust Seal Accreditation Program Launch

VPN Trust Initiative

The Internet Infrastructure Coalition (i2Coalition) launched the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) in 2020 to establish a baseline for how virtual private network (VPN) providers should operate. The goal is to help avoid oversights, misunderstandings, or vague legislation that could invite abuses of power and short-sighted legislation of helpful technology. As a result of collaborative efforts, the VTI Principles serve as a comprehensive set of best practices for VPN providers that bolster consumer confidence and provider accountability, promoting wider VPN adoption and access to the technology’s benefits. Today VTI is announcing the launch of the VPN Trust Seal accreditation program, which provides a clear public indicator that a participating VPN provider follows established best practices for delivering service in the following five areas: Security: VPNs will use the necessary security measures, including strong encryption and authentication protocols, to appropriately address the risks. Advertising Practices: Given the complexity and different use cases for VPNs, claims must not mislead. Privacy: VPNs should keep as little data as they deem necessary to provide the service and only produce data to law enforcement when legally required. Disclosure and Transparency: To foster trust, member companies must take steps toward informing users and the public about their actions and procedures. Social Responsibility: VPN providers will promote VPN technology to support access to the global Internet and freedom of expression. Principles guiding VPN Trust Seal accreditation are informed by input from businesses, legislators, free speech advocates, and other outside experts to protect the privacy and security of VPN users; offer practical policy guidelines for VPN providers; and ensure policymakers, regulators, and the wider market have access to clear criteria for evaluating these technologies. The inaugural group of VPN providers that have earned accreditation includes Certida, FastVPN, IvacyVPN, NordVPN, PureVPN, Surfshark, Texas.net, IPVanish, StrongVPN, eVenture Ltd, and ExpressVPN. “Now when VPN customers try to determine which providers align with their ethics, they can look for the VPN Trust Seal and gain some assurances about the commitments behind the products they are looking to purchase,” said Christian Dawson, Co-Founder & Executive Director, i2Coalition. For more detailed information on each of these principles and how to get the VPN Trust Seal, please visit the VTI website. About i2Coalition’s VPN Trust Initiative i2Coalition’s VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) is an industry-led consortium that promotes consumer safety and privacy online by increasing understanding of VPNs and strengthening business practices in an industry that already protects millions of Internet users. The VTI leverages first-hand knowledge to advocate, create, vet, and validate guidelines that strengthen trust and transparency and mitigate risk for users. To learn more about the VTI, please visit vpntrust.net. About the i2Coalition The Internet Infrastructure Coalition (“i2Coalition”) ensures that those who build the infrastructure of the Internet have a voice in public policy. We are a leading voice for web hosting companies, data centers, domain registrars and registries, cloud infrastructure providers, managed services providers, and related tech. We protect innovation and the continued growth of the Internet’s infrastructure which is essential to the global economy. Our coalition launched at a significant time in our industry’s history. The genesis of the organization began in 2011 when many of the i2Coalition founding and charter members joined forces during the successful effort to prevent SOPA and PIPA from becoming United States law. After mobilizing to ensure the Internet’s free flow of information and commerce, we realized the ongoing need for an industry voice, founding formally in 2012. To learn more about the i2Coalition and explore membership, please visit i2Coalition.com. Contact Details Aaron Alberico +1 202-744-0786 aalberico@raynoravenue.com Company Website https://vpntrust.net/

September 26, 2023 09:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time

A Very Important Change Is Coming for Airplane Bathrooms

YourUpdateTV

A video accompanying this announcement is available at: https://youtu.be/g4fqkbuzqjA The Department of Transportation (DOT) is making larger single-aisle airplanes more accessible by requiring accessible lavatories for people with disabilities. While this rule will be implemented over the coming years, it is a monumental achievement for the disability civil rights movement. Under previous standards, people who use wheelchairs have no way to access the restroom on single-aisle aircraft. They are forced them to dehydrate themselves, or even soil themselves, before flights – causing major bodily harm! Over the past 75 years, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) has led the fight for accessibility — and air travel is no different. PVA helped pass the landmark legislation to first make air travel accessible over 35 years ago, and they played an integral role in securing accessible airplane lavatories. They continue to advocate for additional reforms that will ensure a safe, dignified air travel experience for people with disabilities. So, what does this new rule mean for the future of accessible air travel? And what else is needed to make the air travel experience fully accessible for people with disabilities? Now is an opportunity for your audience to learn more about the new rule and the ways Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA) has helped secure this monumental achievement, and how they continue to advocate for other meaningful reforms related to the upcoming renewal of the Federal Aviation Administration. A nationwide media tour was conducted featuring Chief Policy Officer at Paralyzed Veterans of America, Heather Ansley discussing the new lavatory rule and additional reforms that must be made to make air travel fully accessible through the reauthorization of the FAA. Additional topics that were discussed included: What the new Department of Transportation rules will do. What this means for the disability community. Why this DOT rule was desperately needed. The reasons why air travel is so far behind basic standards. What else needs to be done to ensure air travel is accessible. PVA remains on the forefront of the disability civil rights movement – fighting for stronger ADA enforcement, expanding support for home-based care, and more. To join PVA’s fight for greater enforcement of the ADA, visit PVA.org/ADA, or for air travel, visit PVA.org/AirTravel. About Paralyzed Veterans of America Paralyzed Veterans of America is a 501(c)(3) non-profit and the only congressionally chartered veterans service organization dedicated solely for the benefit and representation of veterans with spinal cord injury or diseases. The organization ensures veterans receive the benefits earned through service to our nation; monitors their care in VA spinal cord injury units; and funds research and education in the search for a cure and improved care for individuals with paralysis. As a life-long partner and advocate for veterans and all people with disabilities, PVA also develops training and career services, works to ensure accessibility in public buildings and spaces, and provides health and rehabilitation opportunities through sports and recreation. With more than 70 offices and 33 chapters, Paralyzed Veterans of America serves veterans, their families, and their caregivers in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Learn more at PVA.org. Contact Details YourUpdateTV +1 212-736-2727 yourupdatetv@gmail.com

September 25, 2023 10:40 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Video

Get SAT’s new In-Flight Connectivity ESA Terminal was chosen by Safran Passenger Innovations, as part of the RAVE AeroConnect Ku IFC solution

Get SAT

20 September 2023 - Get SAT, an innovator in compact satellite communication terminals for ground, airborne, and maritime applications, today announced that it has been chosen by Safran Passenger Innovations (SPI) to supply an innovative Ku-band terminal as part of SPI’s “RAVE AeroConnect” inflight connectivity (IFC) products. RAVE AeroConnect Ku is a new flexible satellite connectivity solution, which will be provided to airlines as linefit and retrofit options on all major aircraft platforms. The antenna will add Ku-band capability in addition to SPI’s existing Ka-band offering. With RAVE AeroConnect, airlines will be able to choose between various satellite services and multiple constellations. Notably RAVE AeroConnect will be available on Airbus aircraft as SFE* line-fit and retrofit catalogue option as part of Airbus’ Airspace HBC plus (targeted offer ability for 2024 and EIS in 2026) and enable airlines to connect to a choice of service providers. RAVE AeroConnect Ku is part of a complete IFC solution with a radome, adapter plate and various modem options. Get SAT Aero LESA represents state-of-the-art, low profile ESA (Electronically Steered Antenna) technology operating in the Ku-frequency band. It allows simultaneous connection with both Geostationary Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, to enable simultaneous multi-beam multi-orbit operation. This small, versatile terminal will provide airline passengers with unparalleled connectivity experience through true global coverage by its multi-orbit performance and higher bit rates with its multi-beam simultaneous links. Built specifically for airborne operations, RAVE AeroConnect Ku solution, which includes Get SAT Aero LESA, supports both in-flight connectivity and entertainment. The new RAVE AeroConnect Ku terminal from SPI, that was selected by Airbus for its HBCplus solution, leads to significant reductions in operating costs and boosts the user experience. This enhanced connectivity solution will ensure faster, more reliable passenger connectivity with greater flexibility. Passengers can look forward to a remarkable, seamless in-flight connectivity experience. Offering high-speed connectivity, the terminal delivers enhanced data rates, reduced drag and latency, and increased performance, thus boosting productivity, reliability and decreasing operational costs. This innovative solution, which allows data exchange as a unified aircraft system, is ideally tailored to support future capacity growth and digital services demand. It empowers airlines to offer passengers an exceptional connectivity experience. Get SAT CEO, Benjamin, said: "SPI has recognized our expertise in navigating complex SATCOM challenges, highlighting our contribution to evolving airborne communication solutions. Together with SPI and Airbus, we're gearing up to amplify the RAVE AeroConnect IFC offering using our innovative communication terminals, which are specifically designed to cater to airline demands. It's a matter of pride for us to be a part of such transformative steps in commercial aviation." Matt Smith, CEO of SPI said: “Safran Passenger Innovations is delighted to select Get SAT as the Ku-band ESA provider for our various airline and OEM programs. We are excited to disrupt the industry by providing agnostic and open terminals supporting the Airbus vision, giving airlines the freedom of choice for their future connectivity services. Get SAT has demonstrated their ability to meet the needs of demanding government customers and we are excited to bring this technology to the commercial airline market.” About Get SAT Get SAT is at the forefront in supplying Micronized Satellite Terminals, which come in a compact form and are suitable for ground, air, and maritime applications. The company's groundbreaking antenna technology delivers the highest level of efficiency in the most compact size. The LESA antenna technology is a leap forward in capability and form factor, enabling Get SAT to provide truly portable, integrated, full-duplex, wide-band satellite communications. Get SAT terminals operate in multi- orbit satellite constellations, in GEO, MEO and LEO. For more information visit www.getsat.com Press Contacts Get SAT Ayala Pinhasi +972-76-5300-700 #122 +1-571-501-5150 info@getsat.com About SPI Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 83,000 employees and sales of 19,0 billion euros in 2022 and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and innovation roadmap. Safran is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices. Safran Passenger Innovations creates innovative in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems using the latest in consumer and avionics technology to provide best in class hardware, software, and services for a premium, connected flying experience. For more information: www.safran-group.com www.safran-group.com/companies/safran-passenger-innovations Press Contacts Jared Siqueland +1-714-203-0525 jared.siqueland@zii.aero SFE* = Supplier Furnished Equipment Contact Details Get SAT Ayala Pinhasi +972 76-530-0700 ayala@getsat.com Company Website https://www.getsat.com/

September 20, 2023 05:00 AM Pacific Daylight Time

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Get SAT’s new In-Flight Connectivity ESA Terminal was chosen by Safran Passenger Innovations, as part of the RAVE AeroConnect Ku IFC solution

Get SAT

19 September 2023 - Get SAT, an innovator in compact satellite communication terminals for ground, airborne, and maritime applications, today announced that it has been chosen by Safran Passenger Innovations (SPI) to supply an innovative Ku-band terminal as part of SPI’s “RAVE AeroConnect” inflight connectivity (IFC) products. RAVE AeroConnect Ku is a new flexible satellite connectivity solution, which will be provided to airlines as linefit and retrofit options on all major aircraft platforms. The antenna will add Ku-band capability in addition to SPI’s existing Ka-band offering. With RAVE AeroConnect, airlines will be able to choose between various satellite services and multiple constellations. Notably RAVE AeroConnect will be available on Airbus aircraft as SFE* line-fit and retrofit catalogue option as part of Airbus’ Airspace HBC plus (targeted offer ability for 2024 and EIS in 2026) and enable airlines to connect to a choice of service providers. RAVE AeroConnect Ku is part of a complete IFC solution with a radome, adapter plate and various modem options. Get SAT Aero LESA represents state-of-the-art, low profile ESA (Electronically Steered Antenna) technology operating in the Ku-frequency band. It allows simultaneous connection with both Geostationary Orbit (GEO) and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, to enable simultaneous multi-beam multi-orbit operation. This small, versatile terminal will provide airline passengers with unparalleled connectivity experience through true global coverage by its multi-orbit performance and higher bit rates with its multi-beam simultaneous links. Built specifically for airborne operations, RAVE AeroConnect Ku solution, which includes Get SAT Aero LESA, supports both in-flight connectivity and entertainment. The new RAVE AeroConnect Ku terminal from SPI, that was selected by Airbus for its HBCplus solution, leads to significant reductions in operating costs and boosts the user experience. This enhanced connectivity solution will ensure faster, more reliable passenger connectivity with greater flexibility. Passengers can look forward to a remarkable, seamless in-flight connectivity experience. Offering high-speed connectivity, the terminal delivers enhanced data rates, reduced drag and latency, and increased performance, thus boosting productivity, reliability and decreasing operational costs. This innovative solution, which allows data exchange as a unified aircraft system, is ideally tailored to support future capacity growth and digital services demand. It empowers airlines to offer passengers an exceptional connectivity experience. Get SAT CEO, Benjamin, said: "SPI has recognized our expertise in navigating complex SATCOM challenges, highlighting our contribution to evolving airborne communication solutions. Together with SPI and Airbus, we're gearing up to amplify the RAVE AeroConnect IFC offering using our innovative communication terminals, which are specifically designed to cater to airline demands. It's a matter of pride for us to be a part of such transformative steps in commercial aviation." Matt Smith, CEO of SPI said: “Safran Passenger Innovations is delighted to select Get SAT as the Ku-band ESA provider for our various airline and OEM programs. We are excited to disrupt the industry by providing agnostic and open terminals supporting the Airbus vision, giving airlines the freedom of choice for their future connectivity services. Get SAT has demonstrated their ability to meet the needs of demanding government customers and we are excited to bring this technology to the commercial airline market.” About Get SAT Get SAT is at the forefront in supplying Micronized Satellite Terminals, which come in a compact form and are suitable for ground, air, and maritime applications. The company's groundbreaking antenna technology delivers the highest level of efficiency in the most compact size. The LESA antenna technology is a leap forward in capability and form factor, enabling Get SAT to provide truly portable, integrated, full-duplex, wide-band satellite communications. Get SAT terminals operate in multi- orbit satellite constellations, in GEO, MEO and LEO. For more information visit www.getsat.com Press Contacts Get SAT Ayala Pinhasi +972-76-5300-700 #122 +1-571-501-5150 info@getsat.com About SPI Safran is an international high-technology group, operating in the aviation (propulsion, equipment and interiors), defense and space markets. Its core purpose is to contribute to a safer, more sustainable world, where air transport is more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Safran has a global presence, with 83,000 employees and sales of 19,0 billion euros in 2022 and holds, alone or in partnership, world or regional leadership positions in its core markets. Safran undertakes research and development programs to maintain the environmental priorities of its R&T and innovation roadmap. Safran is listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices. Safran Passenger Innovations creates innovative in-flight entertainment and connectivity systems using the latest in consumer and avionics technology to provide best in class hardware, software, and services for a premium, connected flying experience. For more information: www.safran-group.com www.safran-group.com/companies/safran-passenger-innovations Press Contacts Jared Siqueland +1-714-203-0525 jared.siqueland@zii.aero SFE* = Supplier Furnished Equipment Contact Details Get SAT Ayala Pinhasi +972 76-530-0700 info@getsat.com Company Website https://www.getsat.com/

September 19, 2023 11:00 PM Pacific Daylight Time

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SMX® Commits to Advancing Contract Management Excellence with Adoption of NCMA Contract Management Standard

National Contract Management Association

SMX®, a trusted contractor in advanced technology solutions, proudly announces its adoption of the National Contract Management Association's (NCMA) Contract Management Standard (CMS™). This strategic move underscores SMX's unwavering dedication to fostering profession-wide best practices, contracting principles, terminology, processes, and cultivating professional career development within the field. The NCMA Contract Management Standard serves as a global language for contract management professionals across various industries and organizations. It provides thought-leading organizations, like SMX, a unified framework to articulate and discuss contract management phases, domains, competencies, and skills. As SMX incorporates the CMS as a cornerstone of its corporate Quality Management System, customers can expect enhanced contract management services, increased operational efficiency, and a more transparent and streamlined experience throughout their contract lifecycle. "SMX takes immense pride in being an early adopter of CMS, a testament to our commitment to delivering unparalleled service to both our internal stakeholders and valued clients," remarked Rick Schutz, Vice President, Corporate Counsel at SMX. "This adoption reflects our pursuit of excellence in every facet of contract management." Kraig Conrad, Chief Executive Officer of NCMA, emphasized, “the SMX adoption of the CMS™ embodies our unwavering pursuit of a common language for contract management across organizations and around the world.” With the integration of the CMS into the frameworks of Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C) and the Department of Defense framework (DAWIA), SMX's embrace of the NCMA CMS aligns seamlessly with the evolving landscape of contract management. As SMX embarks on this transformative journey, they look forward to not only exceeding their customers' expectations but also contributing to the evolution and standardization of contract management practices worldwide. For more information on NCMA's Common Language Adoption, please visit: www.ncmahq.org/adopters The National Contract Management Association (NCMA) – www.ncmahq.org – stands as the premier contract management organization whose mission is to collaborate towards a globally recognized contract management profession that strengthens its nexus with related acquisition communities. Serving approximately 20,000 members in both the public and private sectors, NCMA propels the growth, advancement, and impact of practitioners through a steadfast commitment to serve through the open exchange of ideas in neutral forums. About SMX SMX is a leader in next-generation mission support, digital transformation and IT solutions operating in close proximity to clients across the U.S. and around the globe. SMX delivers scalable and secure solutions combined with the mission expertise needed to accelerate outcomes for the Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, Public Sector, Fortune 1000, and other public and private sector clients. For more information on our solutions, please visit https://www.smxtech.com/. Contact Details NCMA Holly DeHesa +1 281-865-3296 holly.dehesa@ncmahq.org Company Website https://www.ncmahq.org/

September 19, 2023 06:00 AM Eastern Daylight Time

Vietnam’s NA Chairman delivers opening remarks at 9th Global Young Parliamentarians Conference

Viet Nam News

HA NOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 15 September 2023 – On behalf of the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the Vietnamese people, I am pleased to warmly welcome the President, the Secretary General of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), the President of the IPU Board of the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, member and observer parliamentary delegations, and invited guests to the the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians held in Hanoi - the city for peace, the capital of thousands of years of Vietnamese culture. Vietnam proposed the initiative and was very honoured and proud to be chosen by the IPU as the host country of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians. Inheriting the success of the 132nd IPU Assembly in 2015, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) in 2016, and the 41st General Assembly of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in 2020, the Vietnamese National Assembly's hosting of this event continues to affirm Vietnam's active and responsible participation in the IPU. At the same time, it shows Vietnam's priority and concern for young people and global current issues of the youth. After 37 years of implementing Doi Moi (Renewal) process, since 1986, Vietnam has gained important, comprehensive and historically significant achievements. Vietnam has obtained miracles in building new-style rural areas and sustainable poverty reduction, being a bright spot in implementing the Millennium Goals and the UN Sustainable Development Agenda (SDGs) towards 2030, and has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The country's annual economic growth reaches a high level of about 6 per year. The scale of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2022 at current prices ranked 38th in the world. Based on purchasing power parity (PPP), according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Vietnam ranks 10th in Asia and 24th in the world. Total import-export turnover in 2022 topped nearly US$735 billion, making Vietnam among top 20 countries with the largest foreign trade turnover in the world. Vietnam has also been successful in attracting Foreign Direct Investment with so far more than 37,000 investment projects from 143 countries and territories worth a registered capital of nearly $450 billion. Vietnam has made efforts to realise two 100-year goals: By 2030 which falls on the 100th founding anniversary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Vietnam looks to become a developing country with a modern industrial base and middle-income population; and by 2045, which falls on the 100th anniversary of the country's establishment, Vietnam will be a developed and high-income country. We are entering the third decade of the 21st century with countless unpredictable events. For the first time, the whole world experienced the COVID-19 pandemic with unprecedented scale and incurring losses far exceeding all predictions. It can be said that never before has the political, economic and international security environment faced so many difficulties and challenges at the same time as today. The persistent and complex impact of the pandemic, combined with geopolitical tensions and conflicts, competition, strategic separation, fluctuations and instability in the food, energy, financial and monetary markets, decline in investment, disruption of supply chains have erased many achievements of poverty reduction and development over the past decades. These all have posed enormous, multi-dimensional difficulties, both in the immediate and long term for many countries around the world. The implementation of the UN's SDGs is slowing down, making it difficult to complete the goals. In addition, non-traditional security issues, especially the negative impacts of climate change, are directly affecting the people, security and development of every country. But we still have the right to be optimistic and hopeful about the future. Peace, cooperation and development are still the main flow and big trend. The world has overcome the pandemic. The pandemic does not make us collapse, but makes us more united and stronger. The trends of digital transformation, green transformation and innovation are being widely promoted. While globalisation faces difficulties, a series of new economic linkage and cooperation initiatives at both regional and global levels continue to be accelerated. A world without war and a society without hunger and poverty are a wish and a common goal of global cooperation efforts. With the theme "The Role of Young People in Promoting the Realisation of Sustainable Development Goals via Digital Transformation and Innovations " and thematic discussion sessions on digital transformation, innovation and entrepreneurship and promoting respect for cultural diversity for sustainable development, I recommend delegates discuss the content as follows: First, what needs to be done and how to comply with and ensure international law and the UN Charter, which serves as a key condition to preserve and cultivate peace, cooperation and sustainable development? Second, the role of developed countries, international organisations, the business community and young people in addressing global issues, for example, sustainable and safe digital transformation; equitable energy transition, adaptation to climate change and strong diffusion of entrepreneurship and innovation. Third, in order to make people and businesses to truly be the centre of all decisions in the development process, both the goal, the driving force and the basic resource in all resources, what and how do we need to continue to do in planning, implementing laws and organising actions towards the happiness of the people? Fourth, promoting cultural and human values in sustainable development, promoting respect for cultural diversity in the context of the 4th industrial revolution; tightening cooperation in innovating ways to operate the economy, sharply increasing labour productivity, creating new driving forces for economic growth, and at the same time, helping State agencies operate more transparently, effectively on the digitalisation roadmap, to narrow the development gap and ensure national sovereignty as well as personal privacy in cyberspace. Fifth, I suggest that IPU research and establish a network of global young parliamentarians on innovation to exchange and learn from each other's experience. Late President Ho Chi Minh - the genius leader of the Vietnamese people and the world cultural celebrity - used the image of spring - the most beautiful season of the year to describe the youth: "A year begins in the spring. A life begins in youth. Youth is the spring of society". He also said: "Youth are the future owners of the country. In-deed, prosperity or decline, strength or weak-ness of the country all come from youth." Youth and young people are the force taking on the mission and historical responsibility in the integration and development of each country and the common prosperity of the world. I believe that every young parliamentarian from member parliaments will promote their intelligence, youth, creativity, responsibility and enthusiasm to actively contribute to the success of the conference. With that strong belief, I would like to declare the opening of the 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians. Wishing you good health and happiness. Wishing the young parliamentarians have productive working days as well as interesting and memorable experience in our beautiful and hospitable country! Contact Details Media Contact khanhchivns@gmail.com

September 15, 2023 10:45 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians opens in Ha Noi

Viet Nam News

HA NOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach - 15 September 2023 – The 9th Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians, hosted by the National Assembly of Vietnam and the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), has opened in the capital city of Ha Noi, Vietnam, on Friday (September 15, 2023). The event, held between September 14-18, gathers nearly 500 delegates, including 300 international delegates from 70 IPU member parliaments and international organisations, making it the biggest one since the conception of the Global Conference of Young Parliamentarians. General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Nguyen Phu Trong, State President Vo Van Thuong, and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh have sent congratulatory bouquets to the conference. The co-chairs of the opening ceremony included Vietnam's National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue, IPU President Duarte Pacheco, Permanent Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Tran Thanh Man, IPU Secretary-General Martin Chungong, Member of the UK Parliament and President of the IPU Forum of Young Parliamentarians Dan Carden, Chairman of the Vietnamese Young Parliamentarians Group Nguyen Anh Tuan, Member of Parliament from Namibia and member of the Leadership Team of the IPU Forum of Young Parliamentarians Emma Tangi Muteka, and representatives from the IPU Secretariat. The delegates will be discussing experiences and ideas under the theme "The role of youth in accelerating the achievement of the SDGs through digital transformation and innovation," with three main sessions: "Digital Transformation," "Innovation and Startups," "Promoting Respect for Cultural Diversity in Support of Sustainable Development." The conference takes place as political, economic and societal upheavals have set back the progress of fulfilling Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) commitments and climate change response in many countries. The trends of digital transformation, green transition, and innovation are increasingly given priority and promoted around the world. Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam, in the opening address, said the organisation of this conference affirms Vietnam's "active, proactive, and responsible participation in the IPU" and highlights "Vietnam's priority and concern for youth and global youth-related issues of today." The Vietnamese top legislator also quoted President Ho Chi Minh, the late founding father of Vietnam, in saying that "Youth is the future master of the nation. The prosperity or decline of the nation largely depends on youth." "Young people are the driving force and the bearers of "historical responsibilities" in the international integration and national development efforts of each country as well as global prosperity," Chairman Hue said, asking the young parliamentarians to utilise their intelligence, youth, creativity, and enthusiasm to contribute positively to the success of the conference. National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue asked the delegates to pay attention to five key points: First, what needs to be done and how to comply with and uphold international law and the United Nations Charter, as a crucial condition for the maintenance and nurturing of peace, cooperation, and sustainable development. Secondly, the role of developed countries, international organisations, business communities, and youth in addressing global issues such as sustainable and secure digital transformation, just energy transition, adaptation to climate change, and robust promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation. Thirdly, making people and businesses truly the centre of all policies in the development process, both as the objective and as the motivation and fundamental resources. Fourthly, leveraging the values of culture and human beings in sustainable development, promoting the respect for cultural diversity in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and enhance cooperation in innovating the operation of the economy, increasing labour productivity, and creating new momentum for economic growth. At the same time, this will help government agencies become more transparent and efficient on the digitalisation path, narrowing the development gap, and ensuring national sovereignty and individual privacy in cyberspace. Fifth and lastly, Chairman Hue also proposed that the IPU explore the establishment of a global network of young parliamentarians dedicated to innovation, allowing them to exchange experiences and learn from one another. IPU Duarte Pacheco in his remarks thanked the Vietnam National Assembly for "providing an exceptional setting for the IPU meeting," and expressed his appreciation towards Vietnam's "commitment to leading by example on youth empowerment." "While we are behind with the SDGs, we are supercharging progress in technology. We need to link this progress in technology with the work being done to achieve the SDGs. Digitalisation and innovation are important opportunities." He also urged the responsible use of technology and innovation. "Technology should not force us into a one-size-fits-all model. Our global community has many traditions, languages, and perspectives. This diversity makes our lives richer and can also take us to greater innovation When we combine the power of technology with cultural diversity and ethics, we open up creativity and problem-solving." "As members of parliaments, we must promote inclusivity, intercultural dialogues, and respect for diversity as drivers of sustainable development and peace." Martin Chungong, Secretary General of the IPU, underscored the the significant roles of young parliamentarians, and the young people that they represent, can play. "You can be a driving force for progress, injecting fresh perspectives, energy, and innovative solutions into parliamentary processes. Sharing practices, amplifying your voices on the issues that concern you most, and better connecting you to youth, is what this Conference is all about." He remarked that the young's "passion, enthusiasm, and dedication to accelerating the SDGs through digital transformation and innovation are a guiding light for us all." Contact Details Media Contact khanhchivns@gmail.com

September 15, 2023 10:36 AM Eastern Daylight Time

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