Latest news with #Meetings
eNCA
3 days ago
- Business
- eNCA
G20 Finance Track meeting wrapped up this week
A general view of a sign welcoming delegates at the entrance of the G20 Finance and Central Bank Deputies and Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors' Meetings, at the Capital hotel in Zimbali, Durban on July 17, 2025.
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Spain allocates $232.03 million to support investments in Mauritania
The Spanish government announced a €200 million ($232.03 million) financial package to bolster its investments in Mauritania, along with the launch of the digital platform 'Kantara' aimed at fostering direct connections between economic players in both countries. The announcement came following the conclusion of the first high-level session between Mauritania and Spain, which included the Mauritanian-Spanish Business Council, and was attended by Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani, President of Mauritania, and Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of Spain. According to the Mauritanian Information Agency, the closing session featured pledges and investment commitments. In his remarks, Sanchez said the €200 million package will be channelled into loans for green projects, feasibility studies, risk mitigation instruments, and project implementation tools, particularly in the field of energy transition. He also announced that Spain will appoint its first economic and trade representative in Mauritania as of 1st September. President El Ghazouani emphasised that Mauritania offers a wide range of promising investment opportunities in key sectors such as fisheries, agriculture, livestock development, extractive industries, infrastructure - including roads, bridges, airports, and public buildings - as well as in services, gas, and mining. Earlier the Opec Fund for International Development (Opec Fund) and the Islamic Republic of Mauritania have signed a landmark Country Partnership Framework Agreement to cooperate on key development initiatives during the period 2025-2027, earmarking $120 million in new development financing focusing on the country's development priorities. The funding will finance critical projects that contribute to projects promoting renewable energy, clean water, food security, improved transport and clean cooking. In addition the Opec Fund is pledging to provide up to $500,000 in grants for capacity-building, project preparation and technical assistance. Opec Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said during a visit to the capital Nouakchott: 'We are proud to help improve the lives of people and communities for a more resilient future. Our commitment to Mauritania is focused on bolstering key sectors of the economy.' 'Technical assistance and strong project preparation are vital to mobilise additional development funding, enable public-private partnerships (PPPs) and attract private sector investment.' The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has signed two Memoranda of Understanding with the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office and the Moroccan Industrial and Commercial Property Office, aimed at strengthening cooperation in the development of intellectual property (IP) in the UAE in line with international best practices. The MoUs were signed in the presence of Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, during the UAE delegation's participation in the Sixty-Sixth Series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in Geneva. The agreements cover several strategic areas, including digital transformation, talent development, and enhanced coordination in industrial property and patent registration. They also seek to harness advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to support patent search and classification processes. Minister Bin Touq highlighted the UAE's continued commitment to building a comprehensive IP ecosystem and fostering global partnerships. He noted that collaboration with Spain and Morocco represents a significant milestone in exchanging technical knowledge, streamlining registration procedures, and adopting modern compliance standards. Earlier the UAE Ministry of Investment and UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in investment policymaking, research, and sustainable economic development. This partnership underscores the UAE's commitment to harbouring an investment-friendly environment and reinforcing its role as a global business hub; and aligns with UNCTAD's commitments to ssupport countries to effectively access the benefits of a globalised economy. Through this collaboration with UNCTAD, the UAE is advancing the vision outlined in the National Investment Strategy 2031, strengthening its position as a premier global investment hub by capitalising on its world-class infrastructure, ease of doing business, progressive regulatory frameworks and strategic geographical location. The MoU was signed by Mohammad Abdulrahman Alhawi, Under-Secretary at the UAE Ministry of Investment, and Nan Li Collins, Senior Director of Investment and Enterprise at UNCTAD. The UAE Ministry of Investment and UNCTAD will establish a framework for cooperation to enhance investment policymaking, facilitate capacity-building initiatives, and promote sustainable economic growth. WAM
Morocco World
14-07-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
E-Visa Platform Draws Half a Million Applicants, Reinforces Morocco's Global Reach
Nearly half a million people have turned to Morocco's e-visa platform over the past three years, a figure that shows the rising interest in the country and the growing impact of its digital shift in consular services. The platform processed 187,895 applications in its third year alone. The increase compared to the previous year signals that the system has reached a new level of maturity and that more travelers are choosing it as a reliable and efficient entry point to Morocco. Tourism accounts for the overwhelming majority of applications. About 94.1% of e-visas were granted for tourism purposes, confirming the platform's importance in supporting Morocco's appeal as a travel destination. About 5.9 percent of e-visas went to business travelers, showing how the platform also supports Morocco's economic ties and growing network of international partnerships. Open to 118 nationalities, the service offers two formats. The standard visa is processed within 72 hours, while the express version delivers approval in just 24. For many travelers, this efficiency has turned what was once a complex procedure into something simple and accessible. The e-visa has also proven its value during major international events held in Morocco. When the country hosted the 2023 Annual Meetings of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank in Marrakech, people from 109 countries used the platform. The GITEX Africa Morocco editions followed suit, welcoming participants from 118 nationalities in 2024 and 117 in 2025. Its growing success now feeds into Morocco's preparation as a co-host of the 2030 FIFA World Cup. With a system that eases entry and opens the door to more visitors, Morocco strengthens its ability to receive fans and delegates from around the world and rise to the scale of the event. Tags: E-visae-visa platformMorococVisa
Daily Express
13-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Express
Leaders rally around trade unity: US tariffs dominate Asean talks
Published on: Sunday, July 13, 2025 Published on: Sun, Jul 13, 2025 By: Bernama Text Size: Kuala Lumpur: As global trade tensions continue to rise, the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings wrapped up its four days of talks in Kuala Lumpur with the United States' (US) sweeping tariff hikes becoming a major talking point among regional leaders. The gathering, which convened foreign ministers, dialogue and sectoral partners and regional leaders under Malaysia's 2025 Asean Chairmanship, became a forum to recalibrate Asean's economic diplomacy amid shifting global trade realities. Just the day before the annual meeting kicked off on July 8, US President Donald Trump continued to shake the world with new tariffs ranging from 25 per cent to 40 per cent on 14 countries, including Asean economies. Trump also issued an executive order to extend the suspension of 'reciprocal tariffs' until August 1. Among Asean countries, several received lower tariffs than initially announced on April 2 – Vietnam's rate was reduced to 20 per cent from 46 per cent; Cambodia's rate dropped to 36 per cent from 49 per cent; Laos saw a decrease to 40 per cent from 48 per cent; and Myanmar's rate was revised down to 40 per cent from 44 per cent. Meanwhile, the US decided to maintain Indonesia and Thailand's tariff rates at 32 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively. However, the US has not yet announced final tariff decisions for the Philippines (17 per cent), Singapore (10 per cent), and Brunei (24 per cent). While Malaysia, once again being caught in the crosshairs of major power rivalry, was hit with a 25 per cent tariff effective August 1, a revision of one per cent upward from 24 per cent in April 2025. Despite this, Malaysia's Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the annual AMM, struck a pragmatic tone. 'Rubio stated that the letter was general, but Malaysia still has about one month to negotiate. He also acknowledged that Malaysia is a major trading partner of the US in this region, and will consider and present our views,' Anwar said after meeting with the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Parliament. Anwar's emphasis on maintaining Malaysia's neutral and independent foreign policy was equally clear by saying: 'No. While the US is an important trading partner, we will also strengthen our ties with China, Asean countries, and others to safeguard our people's interests and the nation's well-being'. For Asean, the message was similar but more strategic as Asean secretary-general Kao Kim Hourn revealed that a joint meeting between Asean foreign and economic ministers is planned ahead of the 47th Asean Summit in October to address the region's response to mounting global economic headwinds. * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
Web Release
12-07-2025
- Business
- Web Release
commitment to expanding international partnerships sUAE reaffirmand support its contribution to innovation IPto develop
H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, led the UAE delegation at the 66th series of Meetings of the Assemblies of the Member States of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The meetings commenced at the Organization's headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, and will continue until 17 July. H.E. Bin Touq emphasized that, under the visionary leadership of the UAE, the country has established a world-class intellectual property (IP) protection system, which serves as a cornerstone of its knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy. He highlighted the UAE's comprehensive strategy to modernize IP legislation and policies, ensuring robust frameworks for trademarks, creative works, and innovations that not only safeguard intellectual property but also actively promote its development and growth. H.E. said: 'Over recent years, the Ministry of Economy and Tourism has spearheaded strategic initiatives to foster innovation and safeguard creative ideas, most notably through our comprehensive national IP system. This pioneering framework streamlines procedures, accelerates service delivery across all IP applications, raises awareness about creators' rights protection, and delivers a seamless stakeholder experience in line with international best practices.' Furthermore, H.E. highlighted the launch of the Green IP initiative – a national program aimed at fast-tracking patent examinations for sustainable technologies, underscoring the UAE's commitment to circular economy principles and eco-innovation. He also emphasized ongoing efforts to develop domestic expertise, including the trademark registration agent accreditation program conducted in partnership with the Emirates Intellectual Property Association (EIPA). Additionally, H.E. announced a pioneering initiative to establish an intangible assets financing framework, creating a standardized IP valuation system to improve funding access and liquidity for selected SMEs and startups in the digital and technology sectors. 'The UAE has also introduced a pioneering collective license management system for music rights — a landmark regulatory advancement that brings structure to the entire music value chain, including composition, songwriting, performance, production, and publishing. The Emirates Music Rights Association was awarded the first license, followed by Music Nation. This strategic move aims to foster the sector's growth and develop a knowledge-based creative economy driven by innovation,' H.E. Bin Touq added. In addition, H.E. Bin Touq highlighted the UAE's launch of its first Geographical Indications system — a historic initiative that formally protects distinctive national products tied to specific regions in the country. The inaugural registration phase recognizes four iconic products embodying the UAE's cultural and geographical identity: honey from the Hatta region; ceramics from the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah; Dabbas dates from the Al Dhafra region; and traditional palm frond products crafted across various emirates, reflecting the nation's rich artisanal heritage. His Excellency added: 'We firmly believe that intellectual property serves as a fundamental catalyst for enhancing the UAE's competitiveness and sustaining its long-term growth. Therefore, we are actively expanding our international partnerships by joining key global treaties and agreements related to intellectual property. Notable among these are the Lisbon Agreement for the Protection of Appellations of Origin and their International Registration, the Budapest Treaty, which fosters a supportive research environment in the field of microorganisms, and the Strasbourg Agreement concerning the International Patent Classification. These steps have contributed to improving the efficiency of the national intellectual property system, expanding the scope of international protection it offers.' His Excellency emphasized the importance of concluding negotiations on the adoption of the Protection of Broadcasting Organizations Treaty and the treaties on Traditional Knowledge and Traditional Cultural Expressions, following the successful adoption of the Genetic Resources Treaty and the Riyadh Design Law Treaty. He reaffirmed the UAE's full support for the organization's ongoing efforts in this regard. The UAE is actively considering the proposal to host an external office of WIPO in the country, in line with its status as a regional and global hub for innovation and technology. His Excellency further underscored the importance of advancing dialogue on the inclusion of the Arabic language within the Madrid System, as this would foster greater linguistic diversity and empower Arabic-speaking communities to fully access and benefit from the Organization's services. The Minister of Economy and Tourism concluded his remarks by reaffirming the UAE's commitment to continuing constructive cooperation with the Organization and its member states to strengthen international IP protection, support the growth of creative economies around the world, and keep pace with the digital transformations in this vital sector. UAE's IP sector continues to achieve record-breaking results His Excellency reviewed key indicators demonstrating the continued growth of the UAE's national IP system. He highlighted that by the end of May 2025, the total number of registered national and international trademarks exceeded 385,774. In addition, registered IP works recorded a growth of 33.23 per cent during the first five months of this year compared to the same period in 2024. In 2024, the Ministry recorded an increase in the total number of national and international trademark registration applications, which reached 33,874 from 31,288 in 2023, representing an 8 per cent growth. Furthermore, the number of registered trademarks nearly doubled during the same year, rising to 31,535 from 16,712 in 2023, achieving an impressive 89 per cent growth. Between January and May 2025, a total of 15,179 new trademarks were registered. Regarding copyrights, the UAE recorded a 28.93 per cent increase in IP registrations in 2024, reaching a total of 2,763 IP works compared to 2,143 in 2023. This growth highlights the rising public awareness on the importance of protecting authors' rights, as well as the increasing confidence of creators and innovators in the country's legislative framework. Recent indicators also show sustained growth in the industrial property sector, driven by enhanced legislations and streamlined procedures. The number of patent and utility certificate applications increased to 3,622 in 2024, compared to 3,415 in 2023, reflecting a 6 per cent growth. From January to May 2025, applications saw a further increase of 19.43 per cent compared to the same period in 2024. As for industrial designs, the number of applications grew from 1,134 in 2023 to 1,252 in 2024, reflecting an annual growth of 10.41 per cent. The sector witnessed a remarkable 70 per cent surge in design applications during the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period last year, highlighting the UAE's attractive investment environment and the growing interest of companies and inventors in protecting their innovations.
