Latest news with #AFCD
Qatar Tribune
31-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
Colours of diplomacy: A watercolour workshop celebrating Qatar-Argentina cultural ties
Ashraf Siddiqui In celebration of the Year of Culture Qatar-Argentina 2025, Art, Fashion and Cultural Diplomacy (AFCD), in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Moldova, organized a vibrant and inspiring Doodling Watercolour Workshop in Doha. The event was a creative tribute to the ongoing cultural exchange and friendship between Qatar and Argentina. The workshop brought together a distinguished group of participants, primarily spouses and daughters of ambassadors residing in Qatar. The attendees were warmly welcomed by HE Iulian Grigorita, Ambassador of the Republic of Moldova to the State of Qatar. He was joined by Farhan Al Sheikh Al Sayed, Founder and Patron of AFCD, and Ms. Rodica Grigorita, Secretary General of AFCD, and spouse of Moldovan envoy to Qatar, both of whom emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy in strengthening international ties through artistic collaboration. The session was conducted by Natalia Curmanova, a Moldova-born artist and certified art educator currently based in Qatar. With extensive experience in the field of fine arts education, Curmanova specializes in a variety of techniques and mediums, teaching both children and adults across diverse age groups. Her approach to art instruction combines professional technique with a nurturing, inclusive environment, making the workshop both educational and enjoyable. Participants were introduced to creative watercolor techniques and doodling styles in a relaxed and friendly setting. The hands-on activities allowed attendees to engage with the art form in a personal way, fostering creativity while also building cultural appreciation. Through the lens of artistic expression, the event offered a deeper understanding of Argentine culture and its artistic heritage. The workshop was graced by the presence of several young participants, including Daniela, daughter of the Ambassador of El Salvador; Aiia and Karima, daughters of the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan; and Awa, daughter of the Ambassador of Gambia. Their involvement added a youthful energy and cross-cultural charm to the event. The Doodling Watercolour Workshop not only celebrated the artistic spirit but also reinforced the significance of cultural diplomacy as a bridge between nations. It stood as a testament to the power of art in connecting communities and enriching intercultural dialogue.
HKFP
04-07-2025
- General
- HKFP
Over one-third of 41 cetacean strandings in Hong Kong last year linked to human activities, NGO says
More than one-third of stranded cetaceans found in Hong Kong waters and on beaches last year were linked to human activities, an NGO has said. The Ocean Park Conservation Foundation Hong Kong (OPCFHK), together with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), handled a total of 41 cetacean strandings in 2024, the NGO said in a statement on Thursday. A total of 14 stranding cases were linked to human activities, with six cases directly caused by them. 'Cetaceans were found to be entangled in ropes, affected by trauma from boat strikes, suffered from infections such as pneumonia, parasites and bacteria, or affected by other internal conditions,' the OPCFHK said. One example cited in the report was two Chinese white dolphin carcasses – an adult female and a stillborn neonate – that were found near Pui O, Lantau, in July 2024. 'Necropsy findings of the adult dolphin demonstrated bruising and haematoma, which suggested potential blunt force trauma indicative of possible boat strike,' the NGO said. The report also mentioned a case of a male adult Longman's beaked whale found stranded on a beach near Shek Tsai Po, Lantau, on November 30, 2024. Despite rescue efforts, the whale died. A preliminary necropsy found a synthetic bag inside its stomach, while the cause of death still awaits further examination, the report said. 'Cetaceans play a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of marine ecosystems,' said Paulo Pong, chair of the OPCFHK and Ocean Park Corporation. 'Understanding factors such as the causes of injury and death, feeding habits, pollutant exposure and genetic relationships will enable us to formulate more effective solutions and responses for the survival of cetaceans in Hong Kong waters.' The OPCFHK urges members of the public to adopt a plastic-free lifestyle and not litter, especially in the sea or on beaches. It also asks people who watch dolphins not to harass or touch them. In July 2023, a whale died with a cut on its back, possibly caused by a propeller after its appearance attracted many people who hoped to see the animal for themselves, with boats offering rides to approach it. The OPCHK has been working with the AFCD to handle marine life strandings in Hong Kong since 2006. More than 650 cetacean strandings have been handled in Hong Kong over the past 19 years, with between 20 and 50 cases reported each year.
South China Morning Post
29-06-2025
- General
- South China Morning Post
Precious public input needed to protect Hong Kong's biodiversity
Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@ or filling in this Google form . Submissions should not exceed 400 words, and must include your full name and address, plus a phone number for verification Under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, Hong Kong launched a city-level Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (BSAP) in 2016, which is now due for an update . The two-month public consultation for an updated plan is a critical opportunity for citizens to share their views. A recent report, 'The State of Hong Kong Biodiversity 2025', reveals that around a quarter of assessed species are at risk of local extinction. Animals which are dependent on lowland habitats, such as wetland birds and freshwater fishes, are particularly at risk. Local extinction is often irreversible, which underscores the need for proactive measures like habitat restoration, stronger anti-poaching laws and integrating biodiversity into development planning. Speaking as a member of the Hong Kong Biodiversity Expert Group (HKBEG), which submitted more than 100 expert recommendations for the BSAP, it is disappointing to see few of them reflected in the 37-page public consultation document. Representatives from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) used the Chinese saying, 'Cast a brick to attract jade,' to justify the omission of details from the document. If this document is a 'brick', 'jade' represents the public's valuable input and support, which the department desperately needs. It's essential to note that the AFCD staff working on the BSAP are experts who understand the importance of implementing the HKBEG recommendations. A careful inspection of the document reveals traces of these recommendations, reflected in the four focus areas, examples of proposed actions and guiding questions.
Qatar Tribune
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Qatar Tribune
AFCD bridging nations through art & fashion
Ashraf Siddiqui The second edition of Art, Fashion, and Cultural Diplomacy (AFCD), led by its founder and patron and hosted in partnership with Aljasra Cultural Club Doha, once again shone a spotlight on hidden gems within the diplomatic community. The captivating exhibition featured over 100 inspiring artworks, including pieces by 15 spouses, four daughters of ambassadors, and Ambassador Erika of Austria, highlighting the richness of cultural diversity. The event also embraced heritage by showcasing Qatar's UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Traditions, making it a unique celebration of cross-cultural dialogue. Throughout the evening, guests were treated to a beautiful blend of art, music, and heritage. Musical performances by couple artists Natalia and Radu added a magical atmosphere to the gathering, enriching the experience for all. Through its unique mix of artistic expression and cultural exchange, AFCD reaffirmed its role as a pivotal platform for nurturing connections across nations. It celebrated the richness of shared heritage and offered a rare glimpse into the creative talents that often remain hidden within the diplomatic circle — a reminder of the unifying power of culture and the arts.
HKFP
19-06-2025
- HKFP
AI surveillance cameras helped prosecute 6 people for monkey feeding, Hong Kong gov't says
Hong Kong authorities used evidence from AI surveillance cameras installed last year to prosecute six people for monkey feeding, a government conservation officer has said. Security cameras installed at the car park at Kam Shan Country Park, known as 'Monkey Hill' for being one of the main areas where wild monkeys live, can detect interactions between humans and the animals, Senior Fauna Conservation Officer Shek Chung-tong said on RTHK on Thursday. The AI surveillance system sends notifications to officers at the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) when it detects that humans and wild monkeys are in close proximity. Shek explained that wild monkeys normally would not approach humans unless someone was feeding them. Depending on their location, officers can arrive at the site in as little as five minutes after receiving a notification. Since the installation last year, the AFCD has successfully prosecuted six people for monkey feeding thanks to the AI cameras, Shek said. Three other cases are still under investigation. Since the maximum penalty for feeding wild animals was raised last August – along with the introduction of a HK$5,000 fixed penalty – the monkey feeding situation has 'greatly improved,' he said. 'Overall, there has been a rather significant improvement in illegal monkey feeding over the years,' Shek said in Cantonese. According to the AFCD's website, there are around 2,000 wild monkeys in Hong Kong found in areas including the Kam Shan, Lion Rock, and Shing Mun Country Parks. The AFCD said the wild monkey population had 'increased dramatically' over the years due to human feeding. Some monkeys have become 'fearless' and would snatch plastic bags from visitors in search of food, the department's website reads. Shek said on Thursday that the AFCD is considering installing AI surveillance system at another car park in Kam Shan Country Park later this year and expanding the functions to detect wild boar feeding. He added that the department may also set up mobile monitoring systems at locations where feeding of feral pigeons is rampant.
