Notice of First Amendment to Compact With the Government of Georgia, 64987-64990 [E8-26090]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 212 / Friday, October 31, 2008 / Notices the information collection related to the 30 CFR Sections: 75.1901(a)—Diesel Fuel Requirements; 75.1904(b)(4)(i)—Underground Diesel Fuel Tanks and Safety Cans; 75.1906(d)—Transport of diesel fuel; 75.1911(i) and (j)—Fire Suppression Systems for Diesel-Powered Equipment and Fuel Transportation Units; 75.1912(h) and (i)—Fire Suppression Systems for Permanent Underground Diesel Fuel Storage Facilities; 75.1914(f)(1), (2), (g)(5), (h)(1), and (2)— Maintenance of Diesel-Powered Equipment; and 75.1915(a), (b)(5), (c)(1) and (2)— Training and Qualification of Persons Working on Diesel-Powered Equipment. DATES: Submit comments on or before December 30, 2008. ADDRESSES: Send comments to Debbie Ferraro, Management Services Division, 1100 Wilson Boulevard, Room 2171, Arlington, VA 22209–3939. Commenters are encouraged to send their comments on computer disk, or via E-mail to Ferraro.Debbie@DOL.GOV. Ms. Ferraro can be reached at (202) 693–9821 (voice), or (202) 693–9801 (facsimile). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: The employee listed in the ADDRESSES section of this notice. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: ebenthall on PROD1PC60 with NOTICES I. Background The regulation addresses three major areas: Diesel engine design and testing requirements; safety standards for the maintenance and use of this equipment; and exhaust gas sampling provisions to protect miners’ health. It first requires that diesel engines and their critical components meet design specifications and tests to demonstrate that they are explosion-proof and will not cause a fire in a mine where methane may accumulate. Second, the safety requirements for diesel equipment include many of the proven features required in existing standards for electric-powered equipment, such as cabs or canopies, methane monitors, brakes and lights. The regulation also sets safety requirements for fuel handling and storage and fire suppression. Third, sampling of diesel exhaust emissions is required to protect miners from overexposure to carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide contained in diesel exhaust. II. Desired Focus of Comments Currently, the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is soliciting comments concerning the proposed extension of the information collection requirement related to the approval, exhaust gas monitoring and safety VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:31 Oct 30, 2008 Jkt 217001 requirements for the use of dieselpowered equipment in underground coal mines. MSHA is particularly interested in comments that: • Evaluate whether the proposed collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of the functions of the agency, including whether the information will have practical utility; • Evaluate the accuracy of the agency’s estimate of the burden of the proposed collection of information, including the validity of the methodology and assumptions used; • Enhance the quality, utility, and clarity of the information to be collected; and • Minimize the burden of the collection of information on those who are to respond, including through the use of appropriate automated, electronic, mechanical, or other technological collection techniques or other forms of information technology, e.g., permitting electronic submissions of responses. A copy of the proposed information collection request can be obtained by contacting the employee listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section of this notice, or viewed on the Internet by accessing the MSHA home page (https://www.msha.gov) and then choosing ‘‘Rules and Regs’’ and ‘‘FedReg. Docs’’. III. Current Actions Provisions under part 75 establish mandatory safety standards for dieselpowered equipment for use in underground coal mines, minimum ventilating air quantities, the incorporation of the air quantities into the mine ventilation plan, requirements for routine sampling of toxic exhaust gases, and the use of low sulfur diesel fuel. It also provides that diesel equipment maintenance be performed by adequately trained persons. In addition, the regulation includes standards for storage, transportation and dispensing of diesel fuel, and the installation and maintenance of fire suppression systems on diesel equipment and in permanent underground fuel storage facilities. Type of Review: Extension. Agency: Mine Safety and Health Administration. Title: Approval, Exhaust Gas Monitoring, and Safety Requirements for the Use of Diesel-Powered Equipment in Underground Coal Mines. OMB Number: 1219–0119. Frequency: On Occasion. Affected Public: Business or other forprofit. Total Respondents: 213. PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 64987 Total Responses: 180,252. Total Burden Hours: 42,826. Total Burden Cost (operating/ maintaining): $428,272. Comments submitted in response to this notice will be summarized and/or included in the request for Office of Management and Budget approval of the information collection request; they will also become a matter of public record. Dated at Arlington, Virginia, this 28th day of October 2008. David L. Meyer, Director, Office of Administration and Management. [FR Doc. E8–25980 Filed 10–30–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4510–43–P MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION [MCC FR 09–01] Notice of First Amendment to Compact With the Government of Georgia Millennium Challenge Corporation. ACTION: Notice. AGENCY: SUMMARY: In accordance with Section 609(i)(2) of the Millennium Challenge Act of 2003, as amended (Pub. L. 108– 199, Division D), the Millennium Challenge Corporation is publishing a summary, justification and the proposed text of the First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact between the United States of America, acting through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the Government of Georgia. Representatives of the United States Government and the Government of Georgia plan to execute this draft text in 2008. Dated: October 28, 2008. Henry C. Pitney, Deputy General Counsel, Millennium Challenge Corporation. Summary of First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact With the Government of Georgia The Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation (‘‘MCC’’) has approved an amendment (the ‘‘Amendment’’) to the existing approximately US$295.3 million, fiveyear Millennium Challenge Compact between the United States of America, acting through MCC, and the Government of Georgia (the ‘‘Compact’’). Background The Compact was signed September 12, 2005 and entered into force on April 7, 2006. Compact projects focused on E:\FR\FM\31OCN1.SGM 31OCN1 64988 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 212 / Friday, October 31, 2008 / Notices rehabilitating infrastructure for transportation, energy, and municipal water services and investing in small and medium enterprises outside of Tbilisi. Currently, all Compact activities are in implementation. The Millennium Challenge Georgia Fund (‘‘MCG’’) has disbursed over US$70 million and committed over US$200 million through signed contracts. Scope of the Amendment MCC proposes to make up to US$100 million in additional funding available under the Compact. The proposed additional funding is necessary to complete works contemplated by the original Compact in the Roads, Regional Infrastructure Development and Energy Activities. Due to cost overruns and a declining dollar, MCC cannot fully fund these projects as originally contemplated by the Compact. Reasons for the Amendment The Compact Amendment will allow for the completion of the Road Rehabilitation Activity as set forth in the Compact. The Amendment will also permit the expansion of the Regional Infrastructure Development (‘‘RID’’) Activity and the Energy Activity in ways consistent with the original Compact. Additionally, furthering MCC’s investment in Georgia can boost investor confidence and contribute to economic stability. Such effects, together with the direct impacts of the original Compact, promote Georgia’s economic growth and assist the millions of Georgians who live in poverty. ebenthall on PROD1PC60 with NOTICES A. Road Rehabilitation Activity Approximately US$60 million of the additional funding would be used to build three sections of road that, although originally contemplated by the Compact, could not be constructed because of cost overruns and a shortage of funds. Those sections will fully connect the Samtskhe-Javakheti region to Turkey and Central Georgia and will upgrade a road to the principal tourist attraction in the region. B. Regional Infrastructure Development Activity The RID is an investment facility authorized to fund improvements to municipal infrastructure. Approximately US$26 million will be made available to the RID to make up for funds that were previously reallocated to the Road Rehabilitation Activity and adjust for the decline of the dollar. Approximately US$18.5 million will be used to complete the Borjomi and Kobuleti water systems by building waste water networks. A municipal VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:31 Oct 30, 2008 Jkt 217001 water system is made up of several components: A water supply, a potable water network, a waste water treatment plant and a waste water network. MCC had already committed to rehabilitate the water supplies and potable water networks. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and other donors have agreed to finance the waste water treatment plants. The additional funding will permit MCC to finish these water projects in their entirety. Approximately US$5 million will be used to further complete rehabilitation of the Kutaisi potable water system. MCC has already committed to rehabilitate the pumps, the pipeline transmitting water to Kutaisi and the water distribution network in a portion of the city. The additional funds will permit rehabilitation of the distribution network in more of the city. The remaining funds will be used to fund feasibility studies and designs for future funding by donors. C. Energy Activity The Compact provided US$5 million to ‘‘support the Ministry of Energy to further develop and implement its energy sector strategy, including * * * providing technical and feasibility studies.’’ An initial feasibility study has already begun focusing on underground gas storage—a critical element to Georgia’s energy security and strategy to reduce seasonal fluctuations in gas prices. The additional US$13 million permits MCC to finish a full economic, geological and environmental study, technical design and public/private financing plan for the gas storage facility and associated infrastructure. First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact Between the United States of America Acting Through the Millennium Challenge Corporation and the Government of Georgia; First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact This First Amendment To Millennium Challenge Compact (this ‘‘Amendment’’), dated as of [llll], 2008 is made by and between the United States of America, acting through the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a United States government corporation (‘‘MCC’’), and the Government of Georgia (the ‘‘Government’’) (each referred to herein individually as a ‘‘Party’’ and collectively, as the ‘‘Parties’’). All capitalized terms used in this Amendment that are not otherwise defined herein have the meanings given to such terms in the Compact (as defined below). PO 00000 Frm 00082 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Recitals Whereas, the Parties entered into that certain Millennium Challenge Compact by and between the United States of America, acting through MCC, and the Government, on September 12, 2005 (the ‘‘Compact’’), pursuant to which MCC granted to the Government, subject to the terms and conditions of the Compact, an amount not to exceed Two Hundred Ninety-Five Million Three Hundred Thousand United States Dollars (US$295,300,000) for a program to reduce poverty through economic growth in Georgia; Whereas, MCC now desires to grant additional funding to the Government in an amount not to exceed One Hundred Million United States Dollars (US$100,000,000) to cover shortfalls in the original budget for the Projects and allow completion of the Projects as originally contemplated by the Compact (the ‘‘Additional Funding’’); and Whereas, the Parties desire to amend certain parts of the Compact as more fully described herein to memorialize the Additional Funding; Now, Therefore, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual covenants and agreements set forth herein and in the Compact, the Parties hereby agree as follows: Amendments 1. Amendment to Section 2.1(a) Section 2.1(a) (MCC’s Contribution) of the Compact is amended and restated to read as follows: ‘‘(a) MCC’s Contribution. MCC hereby grants to the Government, subject to the terms and conditions of this Compact, an amount not to exceed Three Hundred Ninety-Five Million, Three Hundred Thousand United States Dollars (US$395,300,000) (‘‘MCC Funding’’) during the Compact Term to enable the Government to implement the Program and achieve the Objectives.’’ 2. Amendment to Section 5.1 Section 5.1 (Communications) of the Compact is amended by (i) deleting the text that reads ‘‘E-mail: lashanidze@mcg.ge’’ from the notice information for Millennium Challenge Georgia Fund (‘‘MCG’’) and (ii) replacing the notice information for MCC with the following: ‘‘To MCC: Millennium Challenge Corporation, Attention: Vice President, Compact Implementation, (with a copy to the Vice President and General Counsel), 875 15th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20005, United States of America, Telephone: +1 (202) 521–3600, Facsimile: +1 (202) 521–3700, E-mail: VPImplementation@mcc.gov (Vice E:\FR\FM\31OCN1.SGM 31OCN1 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 212 / Friday, October 31, 2008 / Notices Attachment I to this Amendment, which table sets forth the allocation of the Additional Funding and supplements the information contained in Exhibit A to Annex II. President, Compact Implementation); VPGeneralCounsel@mcc.gov (Vice President and General Counsel)’’. 3. Amendment to Section 5.2 Section 5.2 (Representatives) of the Compact is amended by deleting the phrase ‘‘Vice President for Country Programs’’ from the first sentence thereof and replacing it with ‘‘Vice President, Compact Implementation.’’ 4. Amendment to Section 5.11 Section 5.11 (Signatures) of the Compact is amended by deleting the phrase ‘‘or an amendment to this Compact pursuant to Section 5.3’’ from the first sentence thereof. 5. Amendment to Exhibit A Exhibit A (Definitions) of the Compact is amended by amending and restating the definitions of ‘‘Compact,’’ ‘‘MCA’’ and ‘‘Principal Representative’’ appearing therein to read as follows: ‘‘Compact means the Millennium Challenge Compact made between the United States of America, acting through the Millennium Challenge Corporation and the Government of Georgia, as amended or otherwise modified from time to time.’’ ‘‘MCA means the Millennium Challenge Account.’’ ‘‘Principal Representative shall have has the meaning set forth in Section 5.2.’’ ebenthall on PROD1PC60 with NOTICES 6. Amendment to Schedule 1 to Annex I Schedule 1 to Annex I (Regional Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project) of the Compact is amended by amending and restating Section 2(a)(i) thereof to read as follows: ‘‘(i) Sub-Activities. MCC Funding will be used to rehabilitate or construct, as applicable, the road sections set out below (the ‘‘Project Road’’), as well as (1) rehabilitate and improve existing bridges along the Project Road alignment, (2) improve existing drainage facilities along the road alignment, (3) provide road safety features, and (4) provide local access and ancillary structures: (A) Teleti-Koda-Tsalka; (B) Tsalka-Ninotsminda; (C) Ninotsminda—the Armenian border; (D) Akhalkalaki—the Turkish border; and (E) Khertvisi to Vardzia.’’ 7. Amendment to Exhibit A to Annex II Exhibit A to Annex II (Multi-Year Financial Plan) of the Compact is amended by inserting a new table at the end thereof to read as set forth in VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:31 Oct 30, 2008 Jkt 217001 General Provisions 8. Further Assurances Each Party hereby covenants and agrees, without necessity of any further consideration, to execute and deliver any and all such further documents and take any and all such other action as may be reasonably necessary or appropriate to carry out the intent and purpose of this Amendment. 9. Effect of This Amendment From and after the Amendment Effective Date (as defined below), the Compact and this Amendment shall be read together and construed as one document, and each reference in the Compact to the ‘‘Compact,’’ ‘‘hereunder,’’ ‘‘hereof’’ or words of like import referring to the Compact, and each reference to the ‘‘Compact,’’ ‘‘thereunder,’’ ‘‘thereof’’ or words of like import in any Supplemental Agreement or in any other document or instrument delivered pursuant to the Compact or any Supplemental Agreement, shall mean and be construed as a reference to the Compact, as amended by this Amendment. 10. Limitations Except as expressly amended by this Amendment, all of the provisions of the Compact remain unchanged and in full force and effect. 11. Amendment Effective Date This Amendment shall enter into force on the date of the last letter in an exchange of letters between the Principal Representatives of each Party confirming that each Party has completed its domestic requirements for entry into force of this Amendment (including as set forth in Paragraph 12) and that all conditions set forth in Paragraph 13 have been satisfied by the Government and MCC (the ‘‘Amendment Effective Date’’). 12. Domestic Requirements Promptly after the conclusion of this Amendment, the Government shall proceed in a timely manner to seek domestic ratification of this Amendment as necessary or required by the laws of Georgia, or similar domestic requirement, in order that: (a) This Amendment shall be considered an international agreement under Georgian law, (b) each of the provisions of this Amendment is valid, binding and in full force and effect under the laws of PO 00000 Frm 00083 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 64989 Georgia and (c) the Compact, as amended hereby, continues to be an international agreement and valid, binding and in full force and effect under the laws of Georgia. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Amendment, this Paragraph 12 shall provisionally apply prior to the Amendment Effective Date. 13. Condition Precedent to Amendment Effective Date As conditions precedent to this Amendment entering into force, the Government shall deliver: (a) A certificate signed and dated by the Principal Representative of the Government, or such other duly authorized representative of the Government acceptable to MCC, that: (i) Certifies that the Government has completed all of its domestic requirements for this Amendment to be fully enforceable under Georgian law; and (ii) Attaches thereto, and certifies that such attachments are, true, correct and complete, copies of all decrees, legislation, regulations or other governmental documents relating to its domestic requirements for this Amendment to enter into force and the satisfaction of Paragraph 12, which MCC may post on its Web site or otherwise make publicly available. (b) A written statement as to the incumbency and specimen signature of the Principal Representative executing this Amendment, such written statement to be signed by a duly authorized official of the Government other than the Principal Representative. 14. English Language This Amendment is prepared and executed in English and, in the event of any ambiguity or conflict between this official English version and any translation into any language made for the convenience of the Parties, this official English version shall prevail. 15. Governing Law The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Amendment is an international agreement entered into for the purpose of amending the Compact and as such will be interpreted in a manner consistent with the Compact and will be governed by the principles of international law. 16. Counterparts This Amendment may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original, but when taken together, shall constitute one instrument. E:\FR\FM\31OCN1.SGM 31OCN1 64990 Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 212 / Friday, October 31, 2008 / Notices 17. Provisional Application Upon signature of this Amendment, the Parties will provisionally apply this Amendment until the Amendment Effective Date. In Witness Whereof, the undersigned, duly authorized by their respective governments, have signed this Amendment as of the date first written above and this Amendment shall enter into force in accordance with the terms hereof. Attachment I Supplement to Exhibit A to Annex II of the Compact ADDITIONAL FUNDING [USD $ million] Component Year 1 Year 2 1. Regional Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project: (a) Road Rehabilitation Project Activity ............................................... (b) Regional Infrastructure Development Project Activity .................... (c) Energy Rehabilitation Project Activity ............................................ N/A ....... N/A ....... N/A ....... N/A ....... N/A ....... N/A ....... 3.00 1.30 0.65 18.00 7.80 3.90 39.00 16.90 8.45 60.00 26.00 13.00 Sub-Total ...................................................................................... 4. Program Administration and Control: (c) Fiscal and Procurement Management ........................................... N/A ....... N/A ....... 4.95 29.70 64.35 99.00 N/A ....... N/A ....... 0.20 0.40 0.40 1.00 Total Estimated MCC Contribution ............................................... N/A ....... N/A ....... 5.15 30.10 64.75 100.00 [FR Doc. E8–26090 Filed 10–30–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9211–03–P NATIONAL CREDIT UNION ADMINISTRATION Sunshine Act; Notice of Agency Meeting 8 a.m., Friday, October 31, 2008. PLACE: Board Room, 7th Floor, Room 7047, 1775 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314–3428. STATUS: Closed. MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED: 1. Consideration of supervisory activities. Closed pursuant to Exemptions (9)(A)(ii) and (9)(B). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mary Rupp, Secretary of the Board, Telephone: 703–518–6304. TIME AND DATE: Mary Rupp, Board Secretary. [FR Doc. E8–26197 Filed 10–29–08; 4:15 pm] BILLING CODE 7535–01–P THE NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities; Meeting of Arts and Artifacts Indemnity Panel The National Endowment for the Humanities. ACTION: Notice of meeting. ebenthall on PROD1PC60 with NOTICES AGENCY: Pursuant to the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92–463 as amended) notice is hereby given that a meeting of the Arts and Artifacts Domestic Indemnity Panel of VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:31 Oct 30, 2008 Jkt 217001 the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities will be held at 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20506, in Room 817, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Friday, November 14, 2008. The purpose of the meeting is to review applications for Certificates of Indemnity submitted to the Federal Council on the Arts and the Humanities for exhibitions beginning after January 1, 2009. Because the proposed meeting will consider financial and commercial data and because it is important to keep values of objects, methods of transportation and security measures confidential, pursuant to the authority granted me by the Chairman’s Delegation of Authority to Close Advisory Committee Meetings, dated July 19, 1993, I have determined that the meeting would fall within exemption (4) of 5 U.S.C. 552(b) and that it is essential to close the meeting to protect the free exchange of views and to avoid interference with the operations of the Committee. It is suggested that those desiring more specific information contact Advisory Committee Management Officer, Michael McDonald, 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW., Washington, DC 20506, or call 202/606– 8322. Michael McDonald, Advisory Committee Management Officer. [FR Doc. E8–25952 Filed 10–30–08; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 7536–01–P PO 00000 Frm 00084 Fmt 4703 Sfmt 4703 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Total NATIONAL FOUNDATION ON THE ARTS AND THE HUMANITIES National Endowment for the Arts; President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities: Meeting #63 Pursuant to Section 10 (a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (Pub. L. 92–463), as amended, notice is hereby given that a meeting of the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities (PCAH) will be held on November 16, 2008, from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Members’ Room, The Library of Congress, Thomas Jefferson Building, 1st Street, SE., between Independence Avenue and East Capitol Street, Washington, DC 20540. The Committee meeting will begin with welcome, introductions, and announcements. Updates and discussion on recent programs and activities will follow, including a focus on PCAH’s international projects. Reports from the federal cultural agencies are also slated. The meeting will include a review of PCAH ongoing programming for youth arts and humanities learning, preservation and conservation, and special events. The meeting will adjourn after discussion of other business, as necessary, and closing remarks. The President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities was created by Executive Order in 1982, which currently states that the ‘‘Committee shall advise, provide recommendations to, and assist the President, the National Endowment for the Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, and the Institute of Museum and Library Services on matters relating to the arts and the humanities.’’ E:\FR\FM\31OCN1.SGM 31OCN1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 212 (Friday, October 31, 2008)]
[Notices]
[Pages 64987-64990]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-26090]


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MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION

[MCC FR 09-01]


Notice of First Amendment to Compact With the Government of 
Georgia

AGENCY: Millennium Challenge Corporation.

ACTION: Notice.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: In accordance with Section 609(i)(2) of the Millennium 
Challenge Act of 2003, as amended (Pub. L. 108-199, Division D), the 
Millennium Challenge Corporation is publishing a summary, justification 
and the proposed text of the First Amendment to Millennium Challenge 
Compact between the United States of America, acting through the 
Millennium Challenge Corporation, and the Government of Georgia. 
Representatives of the United States Government and the Government of 
Georgia plan to execute this draft text in 2008.

    Dated: October 28, 2008.
Henry C. Pitney,
Deputy General Counsel, Millennium Challenge Corporation.

Summary of First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact With the 
Government of Georgia

    The Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge Corporation 
(``MCC'') has approved an amendment (the ``Amendment'') to the existing 
approximately US$295.3 million, five-year Millennium Challenge Compact 
between the United States of America, acting through MCC, and the 
Government of Georgia (the ``Compact'').

Background

    The Compact was signed September 12, 2005 and entered into force on 
April 7, 2006. Compact projects focused on

[[Page 64988]]

rehabilitating infrastructure for transportation, energy, and municipal 
water services and investing in small and medium enterprises outside of 
Tbilisi. Currently, all Compact activities are in implementation. The 
Millennium Challenge Georgia Fund (``MCG'') has disbursed over US$70 
million and committed over US$200 million through signed contracts.

Scope of the Amendment

    MCC proposes to make up to US$100 million in additional funding 
available under the Compact. The proposed additional funding is 
necessary to complete works contemplated by the original Compact in the 
Roads, Regional Infrastructure Development and Energy Activities. Due 
to cost overruns and a declining dollar, MCC cannot fully fund these 
projects as originally contemplated by the Compact.

Reasons for the Amendment

    The Compact Amendment will allow for the completion of the Road 
Rehabilitation Activity as set forth in the Compact. The Amendment will 
also permit the expansion of the Regional Infrastructure Development 
(``RID'') Activity and the Energy Activity in ways consistent with the 
original Compact. Additionally, furthering MCC's investment in Georgia 
can boost investor confidence and contribute to economic stability. 
Such effects, together with the direct impacts of the original Compact, 
promote Georgia's economic growth and assist the millions of Georgians 
who live in poverty.

A. Road Rehabilitation Activity

    Approximately US$60 million of the additional funding would be used 
to build three sections of road that, although originally contemplated 
by the Compact, could not be constructed because of cost overruns and a 
shortage of funds. Those sections will fully connect the Samtskhe-
Javakheti region to Turkey and Central Georgia and will upgrade a road 
to the principal tourist attraction in the region.

B. Regional Infrastructure Development Activity

    The RID is an investment facility authorized to fund improvements 
to municipal infrastructure. Approximately US$26 million will be made 
available to the RID to make up for funds that were previously 
reallocated to the Road Rehabilitation Activity and adjust for the 
decline of the dollar. Approximately US$18.5 million will be used to 
complete the Borjomi and Kobuleti water systems by building waste water 
networks. A municipal water system is made up of several components: A 
water supply, a potable water network, a waste water treatment plant 
and a waste water network. MCC had already committed to rehabilitate 
the water supplies and potable water networks. The European Bank for 
Reconstruction and Development and other donors have agreed to finance 
the waste water treatment plants. The additional funding will permit 
MCC to finish these water projects in their entirety. Approximately 
US$5 million will be used to further complete rehabilitation of the 
Kutaisi potable water system. MCC has already committed to rehabilitate 
the pumps, the pipeline transmitting water to Kutaisi and the water 
distribution network in a portion of the city. The additional funds 
will permit rehabilitation of the distribution network in more of the 
city. The remaining funds will be used to fund feasibility studies and 
designs for future funding by donors.

C. Energy Activity

    The Compact provided US$5 million to ``support the Ministry of 
Energy to further develop and implement its energy sector strategy, 
including * * * providing technical and feasibility studies.'' An 
initial feasibility study has already begun focusing on underground gas 
storage--a critical element to Georgia's energy security and strategy 
to reduce seasonal fluctuations in gas prices. The additional US$13 
million permits MCC to finish a full economic, geological and 
environmental study, technical design and public/private financing plan 
for the gas storage facility and associated infrastructure.

First Amendment to Millennium Challenge Compact Between the United 
States of America Acting Through the Millennium Challenge Corporation 
and the Government of Georgia; First Amendment to Millennium Challenge 
Compact

    This First Amendment To Millennium Challenge Compact (this 
``Amendment''), dated as of [--------], 2008 is made by and between the 
United States of America, acting through the Millennium Challenge 
Corporation, a United States government corporation (``MCC''), and the 
Government of Georgia (the ``Government'') (each referred to herein 
individually as a ``Party'' and collectively, as the ``Parties''). All 
capitalized terms used in this Amendment that are not otherwise defined 
herein have the meanings given to such terms in the Compact (as defined 
below).

Recitals

    Whereas, the Parties entered into that certain Millennium Challenge 
Compact by and between the United States of America, acting through 
MCC, and the Government, on September 12, 2005 (the ``Compact''), 
pursuant to which MCC granted to the Government, subject to the terms 
and conditions of the Compact, an amount not to exceed Two Hundred 
Ninety-Five Million Three Hundred Thousand United States Dollars 
(US$295,300,000) for a program to reduce poverty through economic 
growth in Georgia;
    Whereas, MCC now desires to grant additional funding to the 
Government in an amount not to exceed One Hundred Million United States 
Dollars (US$100,000,000) to cover shortfalls in the original budget for 
the Projects and allow completion of the Projects as originally 
contemplated by the Compact (the ``Additional Funding''); and
    Whereas, the Parties desire to amend certain parts of the Compact 
as more fully described herein to memorialize the Additional Funding;
    Now, Therefore, in consideration of the foregoing and the mutual 
covenants and agreements set forth herein and in the Compact, the 
Parties hereby agree as follows:

Amendments

1. Amendment to Section 2.1(a)

    Section 2.1(a) (MCC's Contribution) of the Compact is amended and 
restated to read as follows:
    ``(a) MCC's Contribution. MCC hereby grants to the Government, 
subject to the terms and conditions of this Compact, an amount not to 
exceed Three Hundred Ninety-Five Million, Three Hundred Thousand United 
States Dollars (US$395,300,000) (``MCC Funding'') during the Compact 
Term to enable the Government to implement the Program and achieve the 
Objectives.''

2. Amendment to Section 5.1

    Section 5.1 (Communications) of the Compact is amended by (i) 
deleting the text that reads ``E-mail: lashanidze@mcg.ge'' from the 
notice information for Millennium Challenge Georgia Fund (``MCG'') and 
(ii) replacing the notice information for MCC with the following:
    ``To MCC: Millennium Challenge Corporation, Attention: Vice 
President, Compact Implementation, (with a copy to the Vice President 
and General Counsel), 875 15th Street, NW., Washington, DC 20005, 
United States of America, Telephone: +1 (202) 521-3600, Facsimile: +1 
(202) 521-3700, E-mail: VPImplementation@mcc.gov (Vice

[[Page 64989]]

President, Compact Implementation); VPGeneralCounsel@mcc.gov (Vice 
President and General Counsel)''.

3. Amendment to Section 5.2

    Section 5.2 (Representatives) of the Compact is amended by deleting 
the phrase ``Vice President for Country Programs'' from the first 
sentence thereof and replacing it with ``Vice President, Compact 
Implementation.''

4. Amendment to Section 5.11

    Section 5.11 (Signatures) of the Compact is amended by deleting the 
phrase ``or an amendment to this Compact pursuant to Section 5.3'' from 
the first sentence thereof.

5. Amendment to Exhibit A

    Exhibit A (Definitions) of the Compact is amended by amending and 
restating the definitions of ``Compact,'' ``MCA'' and ``Principal 
Representative'' appearing therein to read as follows:
    ``Compact means the Millennium Challenge Compact made between the 
United States of America, acting through the Millennium Challenge 
Corporation and the Government of Georgia, as amended or otherwise 
modified from time to time.''
    ``MCA means the Millennium Challenge Account.''
    ``Principal Representative shall have has the meaning set forth in 
Section 5.2.''

6. Amendment to Schedule 1 to Annex I

    Schedule 1 to Annex I (Regional Infrastructure Rehabilitation 
Project) of the Compact is amended by amending and restating Section 
2(a)(i) thereof to read as follows:
    ``(i) Sub-Activities. MCC Funding will be used to rehabilitate or 
construct, as applicable, the road sections set out below (the 
``Project Road''), as well as (1) rehabilitate and improve existing 
bridges along the Project Road alignment, (2) improve existing drainage 
facilities along the road alignment, (3) provide road safety features, 
and (4) provide local access and ancillary structures:
    (A) Teleti-Koda-Tsalka;
    (B) Tsalka-Ninotsminda;
    (C) Ninotsminda--the Armenian border;
    (D) Akhalkalaki--the Turkish border; and
    (E) Khertvisi to Vardzia.''

7. Amendment to Exhibit A to Annex II

    Exhibit A to Annex II (Multi-Year Financial Plan) of the Compact is 
amended by inserting a new table at the end thereof to read as set 
forth in Attachment I to this Amendment, which table sets forth the 
allocation of the Additional Funding and supplements the information 
contained in Exhibit A to Annex II.

General Provisions

8. Further Assurances

    Each Party hereby covenants and agrees, without necessity of any 
further consideration, to execute and deliver any and all such further 
documents and take any and all such other action as may be reasonably 
necessary or appropriate to carry out the intent and purpose of this 
Amendment.

9. Effect of This Amendment

    From and after the Amendment Effective Date (as defined below), the 
Compact and this Amendment shall be read together and construed as one 
document, and each reference in the Compact to the ``Compact,'' 
``hereunder,'' ``hereof'' or words of like import referring to the 
Compact, and each reference to the ``Compact,'' ``thereunder,'' 
``thereof'' or words of like import in any Supplemental Agreement or in 
any other document or instrument delivered pursuant to the Compact or 
any Supplemental Agreement, shall mean and be construed as a reference 
to the Compact, as amended by this Amendment.

10. Limitations

    Except as expressly amended by this Amendment, all of the 
provisions of the Compact remain unchanged and in full force and 
effect.

11. Amendment Effective Date

    This Amendment shall enter into force on the date of the last 
letter in an exchange of letters between the Principal Representatives 
of each Party confirming that each Party has completed its domestic 
requirements for entry into force of this Amendment (including as set 
forth in Paragraph 12) and that all conditions set forth in Paragraph 
13 have been satisfied by the Government and MCC (the ``Amendment 
Effective Date'').

12. Domestic Requirements

    Promptly after the conclusion of this Amendment, the Government 
shall proceed in a timely manner to seek domestic ratification of this 
Amendment as necessary or required by the laws of Georgia, or similar 
domestic requirement, in order that: (a) This Amendment shall be 
considered an international agreement under Georgian law, (b) each of 
the provisions of this Amendment is valid, binding and in full force 
and effect under the laws of Georgia and (c) the Compact, as amended 
hereby, continues to be an international agreement and valid, binding 
and in full force and effect under the laws of Georgia. Notwithstanding 
anything to the contrary in this Amendment, this Paragraph 12 shall 
provisionally apply prior to the Amendment Effective Date.

13. Condition Precedent to Amendment Effective Date

    As conditions precedent to this Amendment entering into force, the 
Government shall deliver:
    (a) A certificate signed and dated by the Principal Representative 
of the Government, or such other duly authorized representative of the 
Government acceptable to MCC, that:
    (i) Certifies that the Government has completed all of its domestic 
requirements for this Amendment to be fully enforceable under Georgian 
law; and
    (ii) Attaches thereto, and certifies that such attachments are, 
true, correct and complete, copies of all decrees, legislation, 
regulations or other governmental documents relating to its domestic 
requirements for this Amendment to enter into force and the 
satisfaction of Paragraph 12, which MCC may post on its Web site or 
otherwise make publicly available.
    (b) A written statement as to the incumbency and specimen signature 
of the Principal Representative executing this Amendment, such written 
statement to be signed by a duly authorized official of the Government 
other than the Principal Representative.

14. English Language

    This Amendment is prepared and executed in English and, in the 
event of any ambiguity or conflict between this official English 
version and any translation into any language made for the convenience 
of the Parties, this official English version shall prevail.

15. Governing Law

    The Parties acknowledge and agree that this Amendment is an 
international agreement entered into for the purpose of amending the 
Compact and as such will be interpreted in a manner consistent with the 
Compact and will be governed by the principles of international law.

16. Counterparts

    This Amendment may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall 
constitute an original, but when taken together, shall constitute one 
instrument.

[[Page 64990]]

17. Provisional Application

    Upon signature of this Amendment, the Parties will provisionally 
apply this Amendment until the Amendment Effective Date.
    In Witness Whereof, the undersigned, duly authorized by their 
respective governments, have signed this Amendment as of the date first 
written above and this Amendment shall enter into force in accordance 
with the terms hereof.

Attachment I Supplement to Exhibit A to Annex II of the Compact

                                               Additional Funding
                                                 [USD $ million]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Component                   Year 1           Year 2        Year 3     Year 4     Year 5     Total
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Regional Infrastructure
 Rehabilitation Project:
    (a) Road Rehabilitation         N/A............  N/A............       3.00      18.00      39.00      60.00
     Project Activity.
    (b) Regional Infrastructure     N/A............  N/A............       1.30       7.80      16.90      26.00
     Development Project Activity.
    (c) Energy Rehabilitation       N/A............  N/A............       0.65       3.90       8.45      13.00
     Project Activity.
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Sub-Total.................  N/A............  N/A............       4.95      29.70      64.35      99.00
4. Program Administration and
 Control:
    (c) Fiscal and Procurement      N/A............  N/A............       0.20       0.40       0.40       1.00
     Management.
                                   -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Total Estimated MCC         N/A............  N/A............       5.15      30.10      64.75     100.00
         Contribution.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. E8-26090 Filed 10-30-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9211-03-P
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