Latest news with #33rd
IOL News
19-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
BRICS+ Series: How OPEC and BRICS are Shaping the Future of Global Energy Trade
Representatives of OPEC member countries attend a press conference after the 45th Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee and the 33rd OPEC and non-OPEC Ministerial Meeting in Vienna, Austria, on October 5, 2022. The OPEC+ oil cartel meets for the first time face-to-face since Covid curbs were introduced in 2020. OPEC and BRICS: Shared Goals and Increasing Cooperation Founded in 2016, OPEC—which controls over 50% of global oil production, plays a key role in stabilising prices by strategically adjusting its output levels. BRICS+ on the other hand, now including Middle Eastern countries Iran, UAE and possibly Saudi Arabia, aims to promote multipolarity, enhance economic ties and counter Western financial dominance. The increase in collaborations between the OPEC+ and BRICS+ wisely strengthens the Global South, and this makes them very important actors in the shift to renewables and global energy governance. Brazil's Strategic Move: Joining OPEC+ In 2023, Brazil joined OPEC+ and this signaled its efforts to be one of the key players in the energy sector. As the eighth biggest global oil producer (3.3 million bpd in 2024), Brazil's OPEC+ membership enables it to have an influence on global oil policies and aligns with BRICS' pursuit for a multipolar energy system. This move strengthens the energy and security partnership of Brazil within OPEC+, especially within the Middle East. Russia's Dual Role: OPEC+ and BRICS+ The key role of Russia in both OPEC+ and BRICS+ makes it central to global energy governance. As the third largest oil producer in the world, Russia aims to reduce reliance on western markets, diversify exports and strengthen Asian ties. In 2024, Russia produced 10.5 million bpd, with majority exports flowing to BRICS+ countries. Its involvement in the OPEC+ allows it to influence oil production decisions. This dual membership allows Russia to contribute to energy pricing and stabilisation, while also supporting BRICS' geopolitical goal of reducing Western financial dominance. Middle Eastern Powerhouses: Iran, UAE, and Saudi Arabia Iran, UAE and Saudi Arabia, major players within OPEC+, have joined BRICS, signaling a broad geopolitical shift. These countries, particularly Iran and Saudi Arabia, are some of the founding members of OPEC and they hold a large portion of the world's oil reserves together. With a production of 10.5 million bpd in 2024, Saudi Arabia is the world's largest oil exporter, and Iran, regardless of sanctions, reached 1.2 million in 2024. The strategic pivot of Saudi Arabia towards BRICS+ shows that the kingdom has intentions to further strengthen ties in the Global South, moving away from its historical dependence on Western powers. This is a very important development in energy geopolitics as Russia and Saudi Arabia have been cooperating to balance production quotas and stabilise oil prices. Despite facing significant U.S. sanctions, Iran's oil exports have increased, mostly to China and India, showing a change in its geopolitical strategy as evident in its inclusion in both OPEC+ and BRICS. Within OPEC+, Iran maintains the influence it has over global energy discussions. The UAE's membership in OPEC and BRICS emphasises the Gulf's evolving energy strategy. Prestigious for its efforts in diversifying into renewable energy, the UAE aims to balance its fossil fuel production with long-term sustainability goals. Its involvement in both groups positions the UAE as a bridge between traditional energy markets and emerging global energy solutions. Global Energy Implications: A Shift in Power The growing relationship between OPEC+ and BRICS is significantly reshaping global energy governance. Traditionally, Western institutions coupled with the U.S. dollar dominated energy policies and oil trade. However, the deepening collaborations happening between BRICS and OPEC+ presents a challenge to this established order. BRICS has been an advocate for a more equitable global energy pricing mechanism, actively seeking to diminish the central role of the U.S. in energy transactions. The BRICS-backed New Development Bank is already funding energy initiatives in the Global South, providing an alternative to Western financial structures. This growing cooperation between OPEC+ and BRICS indicates a shift in global energy governance, with a growing emphasis on the priorities of the Global South.A Multipolar Energy Future The increasing cooperation between OPEC+ and BRICS signifies a significant change in global energy governance. These nations are aligning their interests to stabilize oil prices and reshape the global energy order. With key players like Saudi Arabia, Iran, Russia, and Brazil influencing oil production, their collaborative efforts to redefine energy policies will ensure a central role for the Global South in the future of global energy trade. This partnership highlights the increasing influence of the Global South in a multipolar world, suggesting a future of more inclusive and balanced energy governance that reflects diverse global economic interests. Written By: *Dr Iqbal Survé Past chairman of the BRICS Business Council and co-chairman of the BRICS Media Forum and the BRNN *Sesona Mdlokovana Associate at BRICS+ Consulting Group UAE & African Specialist **The Views expressed do not necessarily reflect the views of Independent Media or IOL. ** MORE ARTICLES ON OUR WEBSITE ** Follow brics_daily on Twitter for daily BRICS+ updates
The Star
27-04-2025
- Business
- The Star
New Asean strategic plan paves way for stronger, more resilient region
Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg (centre) doing the traditional Asean handshake with sociocultural ministers from the region at the opening ceremony of the 33rd ASCC council meeting in Kuching. – ZULAZHAR SHEBLEE/ The Star KUCHING: Asean must strengthen its resilience, particularly among its people, as we continue to face a multitude of interconnected challenges and emerging risks, especially for vulnerable economies, Brunei's Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Datuk Seri Setia Awang Nazmi Mohamad said. He said this at the 33rd Asean Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting held on April 23-24 in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. The minister, who is the ASCC Council Minister for Brunei, welcoming the finalisation of the ASCC Strategic Plan, stressed the need to prioritise the most impactful measures for better use of resources and stronger stakeholder involvement. He also shared his views on strengthening cross-sectoral and cross-pillar coordination, and collaboration with ASCC partners, to contribute to the effective implementation of the ASCC Strategic Plan. The meeting themed 'Inclusivity and Sustainability' was chaired by Malaysia's Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture and ASCC Chair 2025 Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. The ASCC ministers endorsed the ASCC Strategic Plan and noted its submission to the High-Level Task Force on Asean Community's Post-2025 Vision to be submitted to the Asean leaders. The ASCC ministers also discussed the development of the ASCC Post-2025 Results Framework, which would translate to the meaningful implementation of the ASCC Strategic Plan. The ASCC ministers further exchanged views on the strategic directions for ASCC and encouraged the ASCC Sectoral Bodies to accelerate the implementation of their respective work plans. They also noted the progress of submission of several ASCC documents which will be submitted to the Asean leaders for adoption and notation at the 46th Asean Summit to be held next month – Asean Creative Economy Sustainability Framework, Asean Declaration on Drug Security and Self-Reliance and Checklist on Fair Recruitment and Decent Employment for Migrant Workers. Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg was among those present during the meeting. The 33rd ASCC Council Meeting was preceded by the 11th Ad-Hoc Working Group to Develop the ASCC Strategic Plan and the 38th Senior Officials' Committee for Asean Socio-Cultural Community (SOCA) Meeting held on April 21-23. Permanent Secretary (Community) at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Nor Ashikin Johari, as Brunei's SOCA leader, also attended the meeting. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
Barnama
24-04-2025
- Business
- Barnama
ASEAN's Arts And Cultural Heritage Offers Immense Potential, Says Tiong
KUCHING, April 24 (Bernama) -- The rich arts and cultural heritage of ASEAN countries offer immense potential for further growth, said Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. He said in recent years, ASEAN has not only advanced economically but also witnessed a growing recognition of its arts and cultural heritage. This unique heritage has emerged as one of the most promising avenues for driving inclusive growth, creating jobs, empowering local communities, and preserving the grouping's rich traditions, he noted. 'From ancient crafts to contemporary art, from indigenous festivals to culinary legacies — our cultural assets are living expressions of our identity and shared history,' he said in his speech during the 33rd ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (ASCC) Council Meeting opening ceremony here, today. Tiong said by strengthening cross border collaborations, curating immersive arts and cultural experiences and integrating storytelling into tourism strategies, ASEAN can offer the world something truly unique. 'Together, let us champion a tourism model that not only attracts visitors but also uplifts the soul of our nations and sustains our arts and cultural legacies for generations to come. 'Our journey ahead requires renewed commitment and cooperation as we continue to face global challenges under our pillar, which includes public health crises, climate change, sudden shifts in international affairs and economic disparities and social welfare,' he said. The ongoing ASCC Council Meeting is a biannual ministerial-level gathering focused on addressing key socio-cultural issues across the ASEAN region. This year's meeting, from April 22 to 26, welcomed representatives from the ASEAN fraternity, namely Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor-Leste.
Yahoo
05-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Meet the four Scouts of the Year for 2025 for the Middle TN Council of Scouting America
Here's a look at the four Scouts of the Year set to be honored by the Middle Tennessee Council of Scouting America at its annual Nashville Patron Luncheon on Thursday, March 6 at the Music City Center. The luncheon, where former U.S. House Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tennessee, is slated to speak, is expected to raise more than $1.9 million for programs for youth in Scouting, organizers said. Scouting America, will hold its 33rd Annual Nashville Patron Luncheon on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at the Music City Center. This highly anticipated fundraising event, attended by more than 800 supporters each year, aims to raise over $1.9 million to benefit youth involved in Scouting. The honorees: Cole, a third grader at Cornersville Elementary School in Cornersville, Tenn., is a Bear Scout in Pack 273 in Lewisburg. As a Wolf Scout last year, Cole created and sold a collection of drawings for $300 to help pay down student lunch debt at his school. "His inspiring actions did not stop there," Scouting organizers wrote. "His generosity influenced the congregation of First Presbyterian Church in Lewisburg, who were so moved by his efforts that they organized their own fundraising campaign to help pay the remaining Cornersville Elementary's lunch debt of $516. "Cole's commitment to making a difference has not only relieved financial burdens but has also inspired a community to come together in support of a worthy cause." Ilyana, a junior at Ensworth High School, is an Eagle Scout whose service project was creating solar-powered charging devices for people in Nashville's homeless community. She worked with Nashville nonprofit Room in the Inn to distribute the chargers for cell phones, iPads and other portable tech devices. Ilyana also earned a Presidential Service Gold Award for completing more than 250 hours of volunteer work, and she also earned the U.S. Congressional Award Service Medal for her commitment to service. Among the projects she works on is Sew Powerful, which provides period products to young women in Zambia. Ilyana also serves as senior patrol leader for her troop, and she has been asssistant senior patrol leader and historian. "Her commitment to Scout Spirit shines through in her continuous efforts to help others and do her best in all endeavors," the council leaders wrote. "Ilyana's passion for service, leadership, and empowering others reflects her dedication to making a lasting impact in both her community and the world." Lucas, a senior at Glencliff High School in Nashville, is a Life Scout with Troop 418 in Nashville and "has an unyielding passion for Scouting and a deep commitment to making an enduring impact on his community," the council wrote. "His noble attitude and remarkable resilience have distinguished him as a role model whose influence reaches well beyond the confines of his troop. Whether overcoming personal hardships or seizing new opportunities, Lucas exemplifies the true essence of perseverance and grace." Lucas is an important part of the Order of Arrow cooking staff at Boxwell Reservation, a Scouting campground in Lebanon where he shows "unparalleled leadership, selflessness, and an exceptional dedication to service," the council wrote. Emerson, a home-schooled high school senior who also takes classes at Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, is at Eagle Scout in Troup 75 and Crew 1234 in Hendersonville. Emerson has been a consistent leader in Scouting, both as senior patrol leader for his troop and as senior patrol leader for the Middle Tennessee Council's National Jamboree Contingent. Emerson also is active with the Order of the Arrow, Scouting's National Honor Society, going to two national Order of the Arrow conferences and servicing as Order of the Arrow representative for the Boxwell summer camp staff. "His commitment to Scouting extends beyond his troop," the Council wrote, "as he actively promotes camping, recruits Cub Scouts, visits all the Troops in his District, and serves as an OA leader." Reach Brad Schmitt at brad@ or at 615-259-8384. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Scouting America: The four Scouts of the Year for Middle Tennessee
