Latest news with #UN-hosted
Int'l Business Times
4 days ago
- General
- Int'l Business Times
Indigenous Communities Plead For Action At Plastic Pollution Talks
Indigenous communities from North America are at talks on a global treaty on plastic pollution in Geneva, pleading the case for the environment they depend upon, which is slowly being choked by microplastics. In the grounds of the United Nations headquarters, overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps beyond, a chant suddenly drifted through the humid summer air: a "water song". Standing barefoot in a circle, six women and a young man from multiple North American Indigenous communities decided to do a spontaneous purification ritual. A melancholic second chant follows, dedicated to the well-being "until the seventh generation" of "all the delegates" from the 184 countries attempting to thrash out what would be the first international treaty on tackling the worldwide ever-growing scourge of plastic pollution. The UN-hosted talks, which began last Tuesday, resume on Monday for four more days, with oil-producing states and the so-called ambitious group of nations still far apart on what the treaty should encompass. The young man in the middle of the circle, wearing a hat with two feathers attached, hands each of the six women a bowl containing burning seal fat and plant powders. With both hands, Suzanne Smoke, from the Williams Treaties First Nations in Ontario, Canada, moved as if to catch the rising smoke, rubbing it on her face and body. Panganga Pungowiyi, an activist with the Indigenous Environmental Network, was also in the circle. She comes from Alaska, near the Bering Strait. She is asking negotiators to craft a plastic pollution treaty that ensures justice, particularly for the most vulnerable communities, she told AFP. "We carry knowledge; it's our responsibility -- our duty -- to share the information given to us by the ecosystems," Pungowiyi said, explaining her presence at the talks. Alaska is affected by toxic chemicals, some of which come from plastic or from oil exploration. "Toxic products travel to the north, through ocean currents and air currents," she said. Henri Bourgeois Costa, an environmental and plastic pollution expert at the Tara Ocean Foundation, explained Alaska's predicament. "Given the functioning of the major ecosystem cycles, Alaskan populations are already the most affected by mercury and PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl) pollution -- industrial heavy metals now banned in developed countries -- even though Alaska doesn't use them," he told AFP. The currents, which brought plenty of nutrients and schools of fish to the northwestern US state's residents, are now also bringing vast quantities of microplastics, he said. A 2020 study from Washington State University demonstrated that a chemical additive used in the manufacture of car tyres, 6PPD, had "deleterious effects on the reproduction of salmon", one of the most widespread fish in Alaska, Bourgeois Costa said. A compound derived from 6PPD -- a preservative used to slow tyre degradation -- comes off the rubber onto the roads, and gets into the water cycle, the study showed. "No more fish -- no more seals: no more food," Pungowiyi said. People can see the diseases suffered by birds and mammals in the surrounding environment, which ultimately go on to affect their own children, she said. "We are exposed through food, water and forages, because we forage for our food," said Pungowiyi. Aakaluk Adrienne Blatchford, an activist from a small Alaskan village, who came to the Geneva talks with financial support from an association, put it bluntly: "If animals die, we die." She spoke at a conference staged on the sidelines of the negotiations, which are struggling to find a consensus that would stop the amount of plastic pollution from growing. "We rely on unhealthy products," Blatchford said, adding: "It's becoming harder and harder to maintain our food security." And "there is no alternative", she added, with prices as high as "$76 for an imported frozen chicken" at the supermarket. This is a trap for economically fragile populations living in "a symbiotic relationship with the world", she said. "We need a collective decision on how to handle this crisis," she insisted, hoping that the treaty will include a list of banned chemical additives. The plastics treaty talks are being held inside the UN's Palais des Nations complex. During the ritual, held beneath a tree in the grounds outside, Blatchford stood with her eyes closed, tears rolling down her face. Global plastic production in one year AFP The Chugach Mountains and Alaska's biggest city Anchorage seen from across the waters of the Knik Arm AFP Delegates are meeting in the main assembly hall at the UN Palais des Nations in Geneva AFP
Libyan Express
06-08-2025
- Politics
- Libyan Express
UN warns of catastrophic fallout if Israel expands Gaza assault
Jenca: Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state The United Nations has expressed grave concern over reports that Israel may expand its military operations across the entire Gaza Strip, warning that such a move could have catastrophic consequences for civilians already enduring immense suffering. Addressing a UN Security Council session on Tuesday, Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča said any further escalation 'would risk catastrophic consequences' and could endanger the lives of the remaining hostages. He added that international law is unequivocal: 'Gaza is and must remain an integral part of the future Palestinian state.' The comments follow Israeli media reports that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met senior security officials to finalise a new war strategy, reportedly favouring a full military takeover of Gaza—a move likely to escalate an already devastating humanitarian crisis. China's deputy UN envoy, Geng Shuang, echoed the alarm, urging Israel to 'immediately halt such dangerous actions.' He called for an immediate ceasefire and pressed countries with influence to take meaningful steps to stop the violence. Ahead of the session, Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar criticised countries pushing for the recognition of Palestinian statehood, claiming their actions had 'assassinated' a potential ceasefire and hostage deal. His remarks came as France, Canada, and the UK announced plans to recognise Palestinian statehood at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September—unless Israel makes concrete moves to end the suffering in Gaza. Meanwhile, the United States dismissed a UN-hosted ministerial conference that called for a renewed focus on a two-state solution as 'an unproductive publicity stunt.' US Deputy Ambassador Dorothy Shea claimed it had undermined ongoing mediation efforts. The humanitarian toll remains staggering. Gaza has endured months of continuous bombardment, mass displacement, and critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. Rights groups have warned of growing famine-like conditions and the collapse of essential infrastructure. In a deeply emotional plea, Ilay David, the brother of an Israeli hostage recently shown in a Hamas-released video, addressed the Security Council and urged immediate international action. He called for the release of hostages and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza. Observers warn that any large-scale military expansion would deepen the humanitarian crisis and risk further violations of international law, which prohibits collective punishment and requires the protection of civilians—even in armed conflict.
Associated Press
26-06-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
From Vision to Action: CIIE Empowers Global Development Through Inclusive Cooperation
Shanghai, China, June 26, 2025 -- Amid growing global uncertainty and anti-globalization sentiment, the China International Import Expo (CIIE) remains a vital platform for openness and cooperation. A UN-hosted event in Geneva on June 25, themed 'Working Together to Implement the UN 2030 Agenda—How China International Import Expo Helps,' showcased its role in fostering inclusive growth. At the event, representatives from dōTERRA, and Warmpaca shared how the CIIE has opened doors for them in the Chinese market. Since 2018, dōTERRA has partnered with Guizhou through the CIIE, using innovation to boost the value of traditional Chinese plants and raise local farmers' incomes. Warmpaca made its breakthrough at the inaugural CIIE. By partnering with over 1,000 families to produce handmade alpaca wool goods, it has successfully expanded into both the Chinese and global markets—creating jobs and empowering local communities along the way. As the expo approaches, preparations have entered a new and dynamic phase. On May 22, a dedicated matchmaking event was held in Chongqing, bringing together nearly 40 exhibitors and over 110 local buyers. The event laid a solid foundation for deeper cooperation in the lead-up to the CIIE. To date, an exhibition area of over 280,000 square meters has been booked for this year's CIIE. This year, the exhibition layout has been further optimized to spotlight innovation, advanced technologies, and cutting-edge services. Building on this momentum, the upcoming China-Central Asia Summit will boost exchanges and cooperation. As regular participants in the CIIE, Central Asian countries have continued to strengthen ties with China through this key platform. For instance, at the seventh CIIE, Kazakh businesses took part in an unprecedented scale, presenting a broader range of high-quality products to the Chinese market. The upcoming eighth CIIE is set to attract a broader spectrum of exhibitors, professional buyers and visitors across sectors. Meanwhile, the HQF will serve as a key venue for dialogue on open economies and inclusive globalization. For more information, visit CIIE official website: Contact Info: Name: CUI Yan Email: Send Email Organization: China International Import Expo Website: Release ID: 89163154 In case of encountering any inaccuracies, problems, or queries arising from the content shared in this press release that necessitate action, or if you require assistance with a press release takedown, we urge you to notify us at [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 responsive team will be readily available to promptly address your concerns within 8 hours, resolving any identified issues diligently or guiding you through the necessary steps for removal. The provision of accurate and dependable information is our primary focus.
9 News
25-06-2025
- Business
- 9 News
Shots fired at Sydney home
Amid growing global uncertainty and anti-globalization sentiment, the China International Import Expo (CIIE) remains a vital platform for openness and cooperation. A UN-hosted event in Geneva on June 25, themed 'Working Together to Implement the UN 2030 Agenda—How China International Import Expo Helps,' showcased its role in fostering inclusive growth. At the event, representatives from dōTERRA, and Warmpaca shared how the CIIE has opened doors for them in the Chinese market. Since 2018, dōTERRA has partnered with Guizhou through the CIIE, using innovation to boost the value of traditional Chinese plants and raise local farmers' incomes. Warmpaca made its breakthrough at the inaugural CIIE. By partnering with over 1,000 families to produce handmade alpaca wool goods, it has successfully expanded into both the Chinese and global markets—creating jobs and empowering local communities along the way. As the expo approaches, preparations have entered a new and dynamic phase. On May 22, a dedicated matchmaking event was held in Chongqing, bringing together nearly 40 exhibitors and over 110 local buyers. The event laid a solid foundation for deeper cooperation in the lead-up to the CIIE. To date, an exhibition area of over 280,000 square meters has been booked for this year's CIIE. This year, the exhibition layout has been further optimized to spotlight innovation, advanced technologies, and cutting-edge services. Building on this momentum, the upcoming China-Central Asia Summit will boost exchanges and cooperation. As regular participants in the CIIE, Central Asian countries have continued to strengthen ties with China through this key platform. For instance, at the seventh CIIE, Kazakh businesses took part in an unprecedented scale, presenting a broader range of high-quality products to the Chinese market. The upcoming eighth CIIE is set to attract a broader spectrum of exhibitors, professional buyers and visitors across sectors. Meanwhile, the HQF will serve as a key venue for dialogue on open economies and inclusive globalization. For more information, visit CIIE official website: Media Contact Company Name: China International Import Expo Contact Person: CUI Yan Email: Send Email Country: China Website:
Business Wire
25-06-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
From Vision to Action: CIIE Empowers Global Development Through Inclusive Cooperation
SHANGHAI, China--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Amid growing global uncertainty and anti-globalization sentiment, the China International Import Expo (CIIE) remains a vital platform for openness and cooperation. A UN-hosted event in Geneva on June 25, themed 'Working Together to Implement the UN 2030 Agenda—How China International Import Expo Helps,' showcased its role in fostering inclusive growth. At the event, representatives from dōTERRA, and Warmpaca shared how the CIIE has opened doors for them in the Chinese market. Since 2018, dōTERRA has partnered with Guizhou through the CIIE, using innovation to boost the value of traditional Chinese plants and raise local farmers' incomes. Warmpaca made its breakthrough at the inaugural CIIE. By partnering with over 1,000 families to produce handmade alpaca wool goods, it has successfully expanded into both the Chinese and global markets—creating jobs and empowering local communities along the way. As the expo approaches, preparations have entered a new and dynamic phase. On May 22, a dedicated matchmaking event was held in Chongqing, bringing together nearly 40 exhibitors and over 110 local buyers. The event laid a solid foundation for deeper cooperation in the lead-up to the CIIE. To date, an exhibition area of over 280,000 square meters has been booked for this year's CIIE. This year, the exhibition layout has been further optimized to spotlight innovation, advanced technologies, and cutting-edge services. Building on this momentum, the upcoming China-Central Asia Summit will boost exchanges and cooperation. As regular participants in the CIIE, Central Asian countries have continued to strengthen ties with China through this key platform. For instance, at the seventh CIIE, Kazakh businesses took part in an unprecedented scale, presenting a broader range of high-quality products to the Chinese market. The upcoming eighth CIIE is set to attract a broader spectrum of exhibitors, professional buyers and visitors across sectors. Meanwhile, the HQF will serve as a key venue for dialogue on open economies and inclusive globalization. For more information, visit CIIE official website:
