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Korea Herald
02-06-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
SI Group Signs Exclusive MOU in Support of Solomon Islands' First Special Economic Zone
, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- SI Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Government of the Solomon Islands to serve as a strategic adviser and priority investor in the development and international promotion of the country's first Special Economic Zone (SEZ). This MOU establishes the foundation for collaboration, with a more detailed investment agreement to be finalized and presented to the Government Caucus for formal approval. Solomon Islands – A Strategic Gateway in the Pacific Situated at the crossroads of Southeast Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific, the Solomon Islands holds a unique position on major maritime trade routes. With ongoing economic reforms and a commitment to inclusive development, the country is positioning itself as a new frontier for global investment and sustainable growth. The Honourable Jaimie Lency VOKIA, Minister of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration and Member of Parliament, stated: "This MOU marks the beginning of a strategic public-private partnership. SI Group's global reach and sector expertise will help attract serious international investors to the SEZ, aligning with our national goals for economic diversification and regional integration." A Government-Led SEZ for National Development The Special Economic Zone, officially launched by the Government of the Solomon Islands, is a flagship initiative aimed at stimulating broad-based economic transformation. Its goals include: A Cohesive Structure for Sustainable Growth The SEZ will comprise a series of interconnected sub-zones, each with distinct strategic functions: 3. Infrastructure – Finance – Logistics All sub-zones will be developed in accordance with a national master plan to ensure operational coherence and long-term sustainability. Implementation Roadmap: From Vision to Execution SI Group and the Solomon Islands Government have agreed on a structured implementation roadmap to realize the SEZ through phased development: SI Group – Strategic Adviser and Priority Investor Under the terms of the MOU, SI Group will serve as a strategic adviser and priority investor on major investment opportunities within the zone. SI Group's role includes: About SI Group Established in 2001 as ESPECO (H.K) Limited and now headquartered in Vietnam, SI Group is a global advisory and investment firm specializing in: With active operations in over 20 countries and a proven track record of delivering high-impact projects, SI Group is committed to supporting the Solomon Islands in realizing its SEZ ambitions through sustainable and inclusive development. Nguyen Huu Tri (Kannie)
The Sun
21-04-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
Canary Islands declares ‘pre-emergency' weather alert as Brit tourist hotspots set to be battered by 40mph winds
THE Canary Islands have declared a "pre-emergency" weather alert as Brit holiday hotspots are set to be battered by 40mph winds. Two separate yellow advisories have been issued, with "force seven" winds set to begin Monday evening on the coast of Tenerife. 8 8 8 Spain 's equivalent of the Met Office, AEMET, have issued alerts on the hazardous weather conditions, with holidaymakers potentially wanting to avoid the archipelago the first half of this week. The alert said: "Northeast winds of 50 to 61 km/h (force seven) on the southeast coast of Tenerife, southeast and west of Gran Canaria." The chilling weather warning affects Brit holiday hotspots like Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma - among others. It comes after AEMET issued a "pre-alert" warning on the strong winds for Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Gomera on Saturday. It said: "The Government of the Canary Islands, through the Directorate General for Emergencies, updates the situation and declares a pre-alert for winds on all the islands, as of 16:00 hours today, Saturday 19 April. "This decision is taken taking into account the information provided by the State Meteorological Agency and other available sources, and in application of the Specific Emergency Plan for the Canary Islands due to the Risk of Adverse Meteorological Phenomena (PEFMA)." Clearer skies and warmer weather are meant to grace Tenerife as soon as Wednesday after two days of predicted rainfall, with temperatures nearing 30C by the end of the coming weekend. Meanwhile Gran Canaria is likely to hit the same temperature within the next few days, with hot highs set for April 27 and 29. Canary Islands warning The warning affects: El Hierro La Gomera Fuerteventura Lanzarote La Palma El Paso Coast of Garafía Fuencaliente and Mazo Tenerife Coast of Buenavista del Norte San Miguel Granadilla Arico, de Fasnia Güímar Gran Canaria Cumbres Coast of Gáldar Agaete Artenara La Aldea San Bartolomé de Tirajana Santa Lucía de Tirajana Agüimes Ingenio Telde 8 8 LANZAROTE HELL A week ago, Brits were issued an urgent warning about holiday hotspot Lanzarote following the "unprecedented" flooding. The UK government stepped in to caution anyone visiting the island about the perilous conditions. The official warning said: "Heavy rainfall and flooding in Lanzarote occurred earlier today (13 April 2025) with Costa Teguise, San Bartolomé and Arrecife particularly affected. "Services across the island are affected. Some hotels are currently without power. Some roads are currently affected by mud. "If you are in Lanzarote or travelling to Lanzarote, follow the advice of the local authorities and monitor local weather updates." A storm broke out on the early afternoon of April 12 - unloading a short, sharp deluge of rainfall onto the island. Some spots in Costa Teguise received more than a year's worth of rain in two hours, when over 100 litres fell per square metre. Staggering footage emerged over the weekend of the island swamped by the violent flooding after a torrential two-hour dump of rain. Homes and roads were overcome by the surging floodwater on Saturday afternoon, prompting officials to declare a state of emergency. Carparks turned into fast-flowing rivers with cars lying stranded in impassable streets, and hotels were without power on Sunday. Locals said they "haven't seen anything like it before", after the floodwater caused widespread damage. 8 8
Biz Bahrain
21-03-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
Bahrain-Hong Kong investment agreement to take effect on March 21
The Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement between the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will come into effect on Friday, March 21. The agreement reflects the strong and growing ties between Bahrain and Hong Kong, particularly in the financial, economic, and investment sectors. It aims to create new and sustainable opportunities for cooperation and joint initiatives while reinforcing both sides' commitment to expanding investment prospects that support economic growth and prosperity. Nawaf Hashem Al Sadeh, Assistant Undersecretary for International Cooperation at the Ministry of Finance and National Economy, emphasised Bahrain's commitment to fostering international partnerships to attract foreign direct investment, encourage joint ventures, and create high-value opportunities for citizens. He noted that the ministry actively facilitates investment agreements, with nearly 40 agreements signed to date, ensuring safeguards for investors, the free movement of capital, and the transfer of profits and returns in freely convertible currencies between the contracting states. Al Sadeh further highlighted that these agreements provide guarantees, including fair and prompt compensation for investors in cases of expropriation for the public interest, in accordance with established legal procedures. They also outline mechanisms for dispute resolution between investors and the contracting states, as well as between the states themselves, thereby reinforcing investor confidence and ensuring a secure and stable investment environment. For more information on Bahrain's investment agreements, visit the Ministry of Finance and National Economy's website at BNA(R)
Associated Press
12-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
HK Web3 Festival 2025 Announces April 7 Agenda Focused on Virtual Asset Regulation
The HK Web3 Festival 2025 agenda for April 7 is now unveiled, spotlighting Hong Kong's evolving regulations on virtual assets. Industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators will discuss the future of Web3, regulatory advancements, and opportunities shaping Hong Kong's position as a global digital asset hub. Hong Kong, March 12, 2025 -- The White House just hosted a groundbreaking Crypto Summit on March 7th, but with no significant implications for regulatory policies and market sentiment. Amidst the rapid-changing Web3 market, Hong Kong is set to make a difference - With the Hong Kong Web3 Festival 2025 drawing near, global pioneers and experts in Web3 will be gathered to share invaluable ideas, explore the future, and make new rules for the industry. On April 7th, the Mainstage 'Spring' will convene top figures across industries, with the Honourable Paul CHAN Mo-po, GBM, GBS, MH, JP, Financial Secretary of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, sharing updates on Hong Kong's virtual asset policies. Christina Choi, Executive Director of Investment Products, Securities and Futures Commission, Hong Kong, will elaborate on the updates of Hong Kong's virtual assets landscape and the potential collaboration between the asset management and Web3 industry. Following Christina will be Duncan Chiu, Legislative Council Member (Technology & Innovation Constituency), Hong Kong, who will be discussing the latest development on Hong Kong's stablecoins. Henry Ma, Executive Vice President and CIO of WeBank and Director of WeBank Technology Services, will share exciting practices from the FISCO BCOS. SHEN Jianguang, Vice President and Chief Economist of Inc., will discuss the global trends in stablecoin development. An enlightening, regulation-focused panel discussion will then take place, featuring David Lee, Chairman, Global FinTech Institute, Genki Oda, Chairman of Japan Virtual and Crypto assets Exchange Association, and Kevin Goldstein, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Kee Global Advisors. Bitcoin Magazine's CEO David Bailey, also a participant of the White House Crypto Summit, will physically attend the Festival with updates of the US' cryptocurrency policies. Jason Brett, Managing Director of Key Bridge Advisors, and CHEN Zhong, Professor and Doctoral supervisor at Peking University, will deliver keynote presentations regarding Web3 in China and the US. Taking place at the iconic Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) across 14,000㎡ — 1.5 times the size of previous editions — the festival promises a vibrant environment for networking, learning, and collaboration. It features nearly 40 forums covering diverse topics, bringing together more than 400 global experts, professionals, investors and pioneers in the Web3 industry. Notably, this year's four stages are splendidly designed around the four seasons, combined with elements of typical traditional Chinese architecture. Furthermore, the event has also unveiled an impressive lineup of 2025 sponsors so far, including: Title: TON Foundation, GMGN, OKX Web3 Diamond: Umy, PlatON Platinum: CKB Eco Fund, Qtum, SlowMist Co-organizer: AltLayer, Arkreen, RD Technologies, SNZ Holding Side-Event: Animoca Brands, DRK Lab, ETHAsia, HashKey Exchange, Meet48, MetaEra, SlowMist, TON Foundation, W3SA-HK Gold: Alchemy Pay, Beyond Gaming (BG) Labs, BytePlus, OneKey, Shanghai Data Exchange Primary: BrickBank, Google Cloud, Hotcoin, 鲲KUN, TokenPocket Secondary: CertiK, ChainUP, HappyMeta, Neo, WebX Tertiary: APS Money, Bitjungle, Fufuture, Keyblock Solutions, Metya, MoneyCollect, Nextlink, PingCap Knowledge: Brevis Open Stage: Boundless, Microsoft, Primecoin, Solana Foundation Networking Lounge: Pharos Coffee Bar: GMGN Grab your passes at $599: Follow us on X (@festival_web3) to stay current with the event. Join TG community to get updates: Name: Media Team Email: Send Email Organization: Hong Kong Web3 Festival 2025 Disclaimer: This press release is for informational purposes only. Information verification has been done to the best of our ability. Still, due to the speculative nature of the blockchain (cryptocurrency, NFT, mining, etc.) sector as a whole, complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. You are advised to conduct your own research and exercise caution. Investments in these fields are inherently risky and should be approached with due diligence. Release ID: 89154997 Should you come across any errors, concerns, or inconsistencies within this press release's content, we urge you to reach out without delay by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our committed team will promptly address your feedback within 8 hours and take appropriate measures to resolve any identified issues or guide you through the removal process. Providing accurate and dependable information remains our utmost priority.
See - Sada Elbalad
26-01-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Uzbekistan and Malaysia: Co-operation in Higher Education, Science & Innovation Demonstrates New Facts
Otabek Mahkamov, Republic of Uzbekistan, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation Uzbekistan and Malaysia have been developing consistent and effective co-operation, establishing strong ties in higher education, science and innovation. Visits and summits between the leaders of the two countries give a powerful impetus to this process, opening up new areas of educational and scientific co-operation. In February 2025, within the framework of the high-level visit of President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev to Malaysia, it is planned to sign a number of important agreements aimed at further expansion of cooperation. It is expected that this visit will bring to a new level the cooperation between the two countries in education, science and innovation, as well as give impetus to the implementation of joint projects in the field of innovative technologies and personnel training. In the era of accelerating globalisation, international cooperation in higher education is of strategic importance. From this point of view, integration in the higher education system is promoted as one of the important aspects of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia. Relations in the field of higher education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia have developed significantly in recent years and reached a new level. This cooperation is aimed at modernising the education systems of the two countries and ensuring their integration in the international arena. The institutional basis of co-operation between the two countries is based on direct links established with leading universities in Malaysia. In particular, during the official visit of Prime Minister of Malaysia A. Badawi to Uzbekistan on 16-17 November. Badawi to Uzbekistan on 16-17 November 2008, the 'Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of higher education between the Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Government of Malaysia' was signed. 'was signed', which to date is a significant step in the development of higher education between the two countries. constitutes the legal basis for co-operation. Co-operation with Malaysian universities develops scientific ties and provides students with opportunities to gain international knowledge. Malaysian universities occupy high positions in international rankings. In recent years, co-operation in education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia at the inter-university level has been developing rapidly. Cooperation with these institutions has made it possible to improve the quality of education in Uzbekistan and to establish academic exchange programmes between universities. There are currently 94 agreements, contracts and arrangements between universities in Uzbekistan and Malaysia. This partnership will contribute to the development of projects in science and education. Cooperation in higher education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia meets the strategic interests of both countries. Innovative educational methods and international experience of Malaysia open new opportunities for Uzbek students and teachers. This, in turn, will contribute to improving the quality of education and scientific potential in the country. In this regard, 195 professors and teachers of higher educational institutions of Uzbekistan were sent to higher educational institutions of Malaysia for advanced training. In turn, 230 professors and teachers from partner universities and educational organisations in Malaysia took part in the training process. Under the Technical Cooperation Programme with Malaysia (MTCP), since 2016, more than 200 professors and teachers from Uzbek universities (15 in 2024) have visited Malaysia to exchange experience, undergo internships and participate in training courses in various areas. Opportunities for Uzbek students to study at higher education institutions in Malaysia have expanded. In particular, students are very interested in educational programmes in engineering, information technology, medicine and management. In addition, the holding of Malaysian educational forums and exhibitions in Uzbekistan contributes to the further strengthening of cooperation between the two countries. Currently, about 500 citizens of Uzbekistan are studying at higher educational institutions of Malaysia in various fields of study. Grants and scholarships provided by Malaysian universities to Uzbek students are also an important factor in the development of ties in the field of education. Thanks to these grants, many young Uzbeks have the opportunity to learn from foreign experience and in the future apply modern knowledge in their own countries. It is noteworthy that every year the interest in studying in Uzbekistan is growing among Malaysian students as well. Currently, 7 students are studying at the International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage 'Silk Road', 2 students are studying at the Tashkent State Economic University, 3 students are studying at the Uzbek State University of World Languages, a total of 12 Malaysian citizens are studying in the direction of 'Archaeology'. 'Management', 'Museum studies' and 'Tourism'. They study in different directions, joint research and scientific conferences are held within the framework of co-operation. This, in turn, demonstrates that the quality of the education system in Uzbekistan is recognised abroad. Many joint educational programmes and projects are currently being implemented between the two countries. Student exchange programmes, joint master's and doctoral programmes are being implemented. In particular, Tashkent State University of Oriental Studies, Tashkent State University of Economics, Uzbek State University of World Languages, Silk Road International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, Bukhara State University, as well as National University of Malaysia, Technological University of Malaysia, Sultan Idris University of Education, Putra Malaysia University. Effective co-operation has been established between prestigious higher education institutions such as Petronas University of Technology and Malaysian Management University in the field of academic exchange and research. In particular, as a result of the cooperation established between Petronas University of Technology and Karshi Institute of Engineering and Economics, 6 Uzbek professors have been awarded the title of 'Professor Emeritus' in 2023. The Centre 'Modelling and Prototyping' was established jointly with the Bukhara Institute of Natural Resources Management and INTI University. Also within the framework of cooperation, joint educational programmes and dual system of education are being implemented. The implementation of joint educational programmes is recognised as one of the important areas of cooperation. Particular attention is paid to this in the fields of engineering, information technology, medicine and management. In particular, Tashkent State University of Economics and MARA University in Malaysia have developed joint educational programmes in International Tourism and Human Resource Management. In particular, an important result of this process is the co-operation between the College of Lincoln University in Malaysia and several higher educational institutions of the Republic. In particular, within the framework of a joint educational programme between the Bukhara Institute of Engineering and Technology and Lincoln College University, students of the direction and specialty 'Management' continue their studies under the 2+2 and 1+1 system. Between the Samarkand branch of the Tashkent State University of Economics and Lincoln University, a joint educational programme has been created in the area of digital economy. Activities within the framework of joint programmes are actively developing in such educational institutions as Nukus State Pedagogical Institute and Karakalpak State University. Today, 4 higher educational institutions of our republic together with Malaysian universities implement joint educational programmes in 5 bachelor's and 3 master's degree programmes. These efforts are an important step in the development of educational tourism and further strengthening of co-operation between the two countries. In the above-mentioned institutions, students in tourism, philology and pre-school education acquire modern knowledge at the international level and are formed as promising specialists of the new Uzbekistan. Joint educational programmes serve not only to strengthen cooperation in the field of education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia, but also to strengthen cultural and social ties between the youth of the two countries. Currently, four higher educational institutions in our republic, in collaboration with Malaysian universities, are implementing joint educational programs across five bachelor's and three master's degree programs. These efforts represent an important step in the development of educational tourism and the further strengthening of cooperation between the two countries. In these institutions, students specializing in tourism, philology, and pre-school education acquire modern knowledge at an international level, shaping them into promising specialists for the new Uzbekistan. Joint educational programs not only enhance cooperation in education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia but also strengthen cultural and social ties among the youth of both countries. The future development of dual education programs between Uzbekistan and Malaysia will be significant in further deepening educational cooperation. This system enables students to combine theoretical education with practical training. Through dual education, students not only acquire modern knowledge and skills but also gain work experience in their respective fields, significantly expanding their employment opportunities. The establishment of higher engineering schools is considered one of the most promising areas of cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia. The primary objectives of these institutions are aligned with modern requirements, including providing students with in-depth and up-to-date knowledge in their chosen fields and fostering their research, analytical, creative, and communication skills. For this purpose, the educational process will follow a "4+1" format, offering comprehensive study programs encompassing bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. In addition, professional development and retraining programs for engineering and technical personnel will be introduced. Considering the needs of partner enterprises, the priority is to train personnel with the qualifications of 'research engineer,' equipped to master advanced technologies and multidisciplinary production and capable of effective teamwork. Leading domestic and foreign professors and educators will be engaged in the educational process. Modern teaching methods, including project-based learning, problem-based learning technologies, and applied research, will be utilized. The institutions will also emphasize conducting research on industrial issues, implementing practice-oriented educational programs, and fostering innovative projects. In the field of educational standards, Malaysia's expertise in ensuring the quality of education is being thoroughly studied. Curricula and teaching materials are being exchanged, and Malaysian higher education standards are being gradually adapted to Uzbekistan's education system. Special attention is being given to integrating innovative educational technologies into the process. Cooperation in scientific research between the two countries holds great significance. Joint scientific projects, conferences, and seminars are regularly organized, while co-authorship in scientific publications is increasingly common. Collaborative efforts focus on developing startups, technology parks, and innovation clusters by learning from Malaysia's experience in building an innovation ecosystem and applying it in Uzbekistan. In collaboration with Malaysia's Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, plans are underway to organize competitions for applied research and innovation projects in 10 priority areas by 2025. The partnership between Malaysia's MRANTI Center and INNO Technopark in Tashkent is also pivotal for the innovative development of both countries. This collaboration aims to integrate modern technologies into the economy, develop innovative ideas, and create competitive products for the international market. Joint MRANTI and INNO Technopark projects are designed to enhance research infrastructure, facilitate scientific research in modern technologies and robotics, and promote digital technologies. This partnership supports the realization of numerous startup projects in Uzbekistan and successfully integrates Malaysian technologies into new markets. These joint activities strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries and establish an international innovation platform. This collaboration is crucial not only for Uzbekistan and Malaysia but also for regional and global development. With 2025 declared the 'Year of Environmental Protection and Green Economy' in Uzbekistan, the two countries are expected to conduct joint research on environmental protection, the development of renewable energy sources, and carbon footprint reduction. These projects will focus on establishing joint scientific laboratories and enhancing the material and technical base of higher education and research institutions. Exchange programs and internships for scientists from both countries are being organized to facilitate the mutual sharing of scientific achievements. Notably, the conference 'Malaysia and Uzbekistan: Prospects for International Cooperation in Higher Education' played a significant role in identifying new opportunities for implementing joint educational programs and promoting student exchange between universities in both countries. Malaysia is placing significant emphasis on the innovation sector, making remarkable progress and pursuing consistent policies to enhance its innovation capacity. Uzbekistan can also benefit from Malaysia's experience to develop practical approaches for advancing its innovation sector. Such cooperation would be mutually beneficial. Collaboration with Malaysia's leading educational and scientific institutions contributes to improving the quality and efficiency of higher education and research in Uzbekistan. Academic exchanges and joint educational programs provide opportunities for students and faculty from both countries to share new knowledge and experiences. Moreover, cooperation in innovation projects and technology parks stimulates stronger strategic interactions between the countries, opening new pathways for global development. This collaboration will deepen ties between the two nations in science, education, and innovation, fostering the enhancement of scientific and creative potential. Looking ahead, the scope of cooperation between the two countries is expected to expand further. Plans include developing joint online courses, launching virtual learning platforms, and establishing modern research centers. Additional projects will focus on enhancing students' entrepreneurial skills. Cooperation in higher education between Uzbekistan and Malaysia is reaching new heights. This collaboration not only strengthens educational ties but also fosters cultural and scientific connections, creating vast opportunities for future generations and boosting the international prestige of both countries.
