text:
Saif bin Zayed Meets Assistant to Belarus President for National Security Affairs
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Tuesday, November 25th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, met with Viktor Lukashenko, Assistant to the Belarus President for National Security Affairs and the accompanying delegation on Tuesday.
During the meeting that was held at the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters, both sides discussed a number of topics of mutual interest and ways of strengthen and foster relations between the two countries.
Major General Nasser Lakhrebani Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Office of HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, attended the meeting; in addition to Brigadier Ali Khalfan Al Dhaheri, Director General of the Headquarters Affairs at Abu Dhabi Police and Advisor Rashid Salim Lakhrebani Al Nuaimi, Secretariat General of the Federal Demographic Council.
For more information about:
The Ministry of Interior, please click HERE
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The Arabic-language text of this announcement is the official, authoritative version. Translations are provided as an accommodation only, and should be cross-referenced with the Arabic-language text, which is the only version of the text intended to have legal effect.
The UAE Minister of Interior's General Secretariat, Tactical Affairs and Security Media Department
Abu Dhabi Police GHQ - Security Media
Chris Cron +971-(0)-50-987-1317
E-mail: cron.media@hotmail.com
Permalink: http://www.me-newswire.net/news/12924/en
Posted by Business Daily Africa at 11:03 PM No comments:
Saif bin Zayed Heads the UAE Delegation to the GCC Interior Ministers' Meeting in Kuwait
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates - Wednesday, November 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Lt. General HH Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, headed the UAE delegation to the 33rd meeting of the GCC Interior Ministers that was held today in Kuwait.
Upon his arrival to Kuwait International Airport in the Kuwaiti capital, Sheikh Saif was greeted by his counterpart His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior of Kuwait and a number of senior officers. During their meeting, both parties and their accompanying delegations exchanged sincere greetings and congratulations at the ministerial ceremonial hall.
Sheikh Saif, together with his brothers Their Highnesses and Their Excellencies the GCC ministers of interior, met HH Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait. HH Sheikh Saif and the participants also met Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Kuwait Prime Minister at Bayan Palace.
During the consultative meeting, Their Highnesses and Their Excellencies the GCC ministers of interior discussed a number of topics related to enhancing security cooperation between the GCC countries, the security commissions' recommendations and other mutual issues. In his statement, Sheikh Saif bin Zayed commended the efforts of his Kuwaiti counterpart, as well as the great organization of the event and warm welcome. His Highness also lauded the brotherly efforts exerted by the GCC countries to promote and develop cooperation across all areas, in order to deliver more results that benefit the countries and people of the region.
His Highness Sheikh Saif was accompanied by a delegation that includes Major General Dr. Nasser Lakhrebani Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Office of HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior; Major General Khalifa Hareb Al Khaili, Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of the Interior for Resources and Support Services; Brigadier Mansour Ahmed Al Dhaheri, Director General of the Ministry's Affairs; Brigadier Jumaa Ahmed Hamel Al Qubaisi; H.E Rahma Hussein Al Zaabi, UAE Ambassador to Kuwait; along with a number of senior officers from the Ministry of Interior.
Permalink: http://me-newswire.net/news/12940/en
Naturalization and Residency Sector Organizes Educational Program on Combating Violence against Women
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Thursday, November 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
To mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women celebrated on November 25 each year, the Naturalization, Residency and Ports Affairs at the Ministry of Interior organized an awareness lecture under the slogan "How Women can Protect Themselves". The lecture that took place at the Spirit of the Union hall was delivered by Khalifa Mohammed Al Mehrezi, Chairman of the UAE Family Consultative Council.
The lecturer talked about women in general, their strong will, their struggle and the need to raise their awareness about their rights. Moreover, he stressed that violence against women is a widespread issue that needs to be uprooted worldwide.
Additionally, Al Mehrezi gave an overview of violence and abuse that befall women in general. He stressed that violence against women takes many forms, namely social, domestic, sexual and verbal violence. He also provided several examples of these forms of violence against women.
The Chairman of the Family Consultative Council shed the light on the legal methods and means to protect women against violence. Towards the end of the lecture, the floor was opened for discussions and the lecturer answered the questions and queries of the attendees.
The lecture was attended by Colonel Taleb Abdul Kareem Mahmoud, Chief of the Media and Public Relations Section; along with a large number of officers, non-commissioned officers, constables and female staff members from the Naturalization, Residency and Ports Affairs sector.
Serafina Dubai Celebrates its First Anniversary
Dubai Soul, New York Spirit
ME NewsWire
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Tuesday, November 25th 2014
Serafina International marks another milestone on December 9th when it celebrates its first year in Dubai as the city's desired dining destination.
To celebrate the occasion, from December 7th till the 13th, Serafina - Souk Al Bahar will offer a generous 25 % off to all the guests on pre- bookings.
During the celebrations guests can enjoy the lively entertainment provided by some of the most sought-after bands in Dubai. "The place is packed with food and music lovers, enjoying a relaxed, entertaining night out with the charming Old Town as the backdrop. Home grown artists Afif Brothers & Abri & Funk Radius will continue to delight diners on alternative Wednesdays with their enthralling performances," said Leonard Both, Restaurant Manager, Serafina Dubai.
In New York, Serafina has become a popular hotspot for celebrities from around the world including Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian, Kanye West, David Beckham, Tom Cruise, Jay Z and LeBron James. In Dubai, the restaurant has also attracted the A-list crowd with its enviable location at the Souk Al Bahar with stunning views of the Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa, as well as sumptuous Italian dishes. Among the VVIPs who have frequented the place include Charlotte Ronson, Jonathan Cheban, HH Sheikha Maitha Al Maktoum, among others.
Adding another feel-good vibe to Serafina's celebration is the FEED Love Campaign, a global initiative that will be launched in Dubai on the evening of December 9th.
Through this global effort, Serafina hopes to share the compassionate soul of Dubai and the generous spirit of New York through Love.
- END-
About Serafina:
Following the success of the first Serafina restaurant, Vittorio and Fabio have gone on to open six more Serafina locations in NYC: Serafina Fabulous Grill, Serafina Osteria, Serafina Broad- way, Serafina at The Time Hotel, Serafina Upper Westside and Serafina Meatpacking. Other U.S. locations include: Serafina Philadelphia, Serafina East Hampton and Serafina White Plains. Internationally, the group has a two locations in Brazil, two in India, and locations in South Korea and Dubai. Future international endeavors include London, Istanbul, Buenos Aires, Puerto Rico and more locations in Brazil, India and Japan. Vittorio and Fabio energetically guarantee comfort, excitement and fabulous food at every location.
Serafina's remarkable food combined with the lively atmosphere of each location has garnered a wide audi- ence. Most locations feature an outdoor café with opportunities for a people watching. Serafina has a scene that is appropriate for every age group, the ambiance is always casual and relaxed. Prices are very reasonable when considering that Serafina use only the highest level of ingredients possible. Serafina's unique combination of a casual setting, charming service and deliciously good food have kept the locals and celebrity-studded clientele coming back for more.
For more information, follow us on:
http://www.ginzaretail.com/restaurants/serafina-dubai/
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hashtag - #LiveatSerafina
Shenoy
ekadaaPR
E : shenoy@ekadaa.com
Dubai, U.A.E.
Posted by Business Daily Africa at 9:10 PM No comments:
Al Ain Police Organizes a Public March to Celebrate National Day
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Sunday, November 30th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Al Ain Police Directorate organized this morning "Sunday" a public march, with the participation of police authorities, ministries, departments, and governmental and private organizations, as well as a number of citizens and residents in Al Ain City.
The march started from Al Ain Police Directorate Headquarters. It was a patriotic scene that reflected a glorious social cohesion. The march was headed by Brigadier Hamad Ajlan Al Amimi, Director of the Al Ain Police Directorate; Dr. Matar Al Nuaimi, General Manager of Al Ain City Municipality; and a number of officials in the governmental and the private entities, along with some key figures in Al Ain. The participants also included the candidate of Zayed II Military College, who presented a military show, followed by music pieces and a show by the police cavaliers, and traditional songs and anthems.
A number of students from Al Ain Educational Zone and the higher education institutions in Al Ain City participated in the march holding flags and pictures of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and expressing their loyalty and gratitude to the higher leadership through slogans and hailing the achievements realized by the UAE, which is one of the most prominent countries regionally and internationally.
The march then reached the Municipality of Al Ain, where the participants lined up in front of the flag, and the candidate of Zayed II Military College performed the oath of loyalty in the presence of the huge crowd. The Police Music Band played national music pieces, and then the attendees headed to the Municipality Theater to watch the operetta organized by Residency and Foreigners' Affairs Department in Al Ain, in cooperation with Al Ain Education Zone. Later, the attendees headed towards the hall dedicated to signing the web link of the first Digital Flag initiative in the country, launched by the Ministry of Education and Youth, with the aim to reach to two million signatures.
Capital Police in First Place with 15 Points
The Results of the First Round of the Police Director's Cup
The first round of the third Seven-a-side Football Championship for the 2014-2015 season of the Capital Police Director's Cup resulted with the Capital Police Department team placing in first with 15 points, followed by the Directorate General of Police Operations team placing second with 13 points.
The tournament, which was organized by the Directorate General of Police Operations at the Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarters (GHQ), witnessed strong competitions among the eight teams at the Zayed Sports City Stadium, and was officiated by referees appointed by the UAE Football Association (UAEFA).
The Traffic and Patrols Directorate team placed third with eight points, while the Al Shabia Police Station team and Al Khalidiya Police Station team came in fourth and fifth place, respectively, with five points each.
The Secure Company team placed sixth with four points, while the Al Madina Police Station team and the Investigations Affairs Section at the Capital Police Directorate team placed seventh and eighth, respectively, with two points each.
The championship kicked off on 17 Nov. and will last for 14 days, with the eight participating teams representing both departments and police stations playing in the single round-robin tournament.
First Lieutenant Alawi Zain Mohammad, the Championship's Media Manager, said that the championship has been attracting the attention of football fans, who have been choosing to attend the matches.
He pointed out that this championship, as with other sports organized by the Abu Dhabi Police, enriches the building of the bonds of trust amongst participants, promotes cooperation, and strengthens the friendly ties and closeness that exist between police staff members and their departments.
The Championship's Media Manager expressed his happiness with the results of the first round of the championship. He stressed that this is a positive indication of cooperation and bonding between players.
In regards to the football championships, he also hailed the support of the police leadership and Brigadier Maktoum Al Sharifi, Director of the Capital Police Directorate, for offering all necessary provisions needed to ensure a proper conclusion and to achieve positive results alongside excellent benefits.
As per the results of the recent matches, First Lieutenant Alawi mentioned that the collectives matches between the Al Madina Police Station team and the Traffic and Patrols Directorate team resulted in a draw, with a score of 4-4; and between the Capital Police Department team and the Al Shabia Police Station team resulted in a win for the Capital Police Department team with a score of 1-0.
In addition, the match between the Al Khalidiya Police Station team and the Investigations Affairs Section team ended with a draw, while the Directorate General of Police Operations team beat the Secure Company team with a score of 3-0.
The championship comes as a part of the strategic objectives of the Directorate General of Police Operations and embodies its keenness to diversify the competitions; enhance communication, networking, and cooperation between the personnel; and to encourage the spirit of fair competition.
The participating teams are as follows: the Directorate General of Police Operations, the Capital Police Directorate, the Traffic and Patrols Directorate, Al Shabia Police Station, Al Khalidiya Police Station, Al Madina Police Station, the Investigations Affairs Section at the Capital Police Directorate, and the Secure Company.
It is worth mentioning that the third Seven-a-side Football Championship 2014/2015, as part of the Capital Police Director's Cup, will be organized in collaboration with the Government Departments Sports Association. Sponsors include Corporate Excellence Masters International (CMI) as a strategic sponsor; and Al Wifaq Finance Company, Abu Dhabi Cooperative Society, Eshraq Properties, and MENA Corp. as Gold sponsors.
Posted by Business Daily Africa at 5:56 AM No comments:
Optimus and Huawei to Host Their Next Channel Partners Meet in Bahrain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Wednesday, November 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
The Leading Value Added Distributors of Telecommunications and ICT solutions Optimus Technology and Telecom will be teaming up with Huawei on 25th and 26th November 2014 to host their touring channel partner's meet at the Elite Grande Hotel in Bahrain.
The meet aims at educating partners on recent developments of the brand and a focus on their line of Unified Communications, Data Networking and IT products. This Bahrain channel meet event will also include a half day presales training session for the partners allowing them To have a deeper understanding of Huawei's offerings and followed on the next day with an exclusive end-user session organized along with our partners.
The event will be attended by Optimus' channel partners and Systems Integrators, the meet will be led by some of the prominent names from Huawei's technical and channel development team. While Huawei solution experts will summarize their products, enabling the Partners to gain extensive knowledge of how to come up with more strategically planned methods and innovative enterprise technologies from data networking and a range of IT solutions.
"Our channel partners' event earlier this year for Huawei was a huge success; with the upcoming channel event we look forward to highlighting the importance of Bahrain's role in the brand's global sales positioning. We hope to unveil enticing promotions and opportunities to the associating partners of the brand," said Meera Kaul, Managing Director of Optimus Technology and Telecom.
The Huawei Channel Program discusses future market trends and highlights the positives their partner would receive when partnering with the company and gives an introduction to their innovative new products along with an in-depth sales session offering their partners a complete training opportunity.
"Bahrain being a strategic market space for us, we are glad to be able to meet our partners to share and understand industry insights and specific market requirements. We aim to align ourselves to work closely with the partners in Bahrain by offering them and their client's best of the industry solutions, and by motivating them through tailor made incentive programs while providing them with product," said Mr. Feng Nan, General Manager of Huawei Bahrain.
The event is also an opportunity for both Huawei and Optimus to meet with partners and pave a learning curve to understand the industry and market needs in the GCC region. Huawei's aim to work closely with a select network of partners who are ready to align their business and investments with the global ICT solutions provider.
The event is a reflection of both Optimus and Huawei's commitment to create maximum value for clients, which range from telecom carriers, enterprises, and consumers, by providing competitive and technologically advanced ICT solutions and services.
--End--
Absolute Communications
Marissa Pinto
MarissaP@AbosoluteCommunications.ae
New GSMA Study Highlights Mobile Broadband and Smartphone Momentum in Latin America
Latin America Operators to Invest a Further US$193B to Support Mobile Data Demand; Mobile Industry Accounted for 4.1 Per Cent of Regional GDP in 2013
QUITO, Ecuador. - Wednesday, November 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE) The mobile markets of Latin America are seeing accelerating smartphone adoption and a rapid migration to mobile broadband networks, according to a new GSMA study. The new report 'The Mobile Economy: Latin America 2014' was published at the GSMA Latin America Plenary Meeting #42 being held in Quito, Ecuador, this week. Among the highlights, the report finds that the move to mobile broadband networks and smartphones is driving mobile data traffic, requiring significant new network investments.
"We are seeing a rapid technology migration in Latin America, which is proving to be a catalyst for new products and services that are playing key a role in addressing many of the region's social, economic and public services challenges, including enabling financial and digital inclusion," said Anne Bouverot, Director General of the GSMA. "The increasing adoption of smartphones - alongside expanding mobile broadband coverage - is unlocking new business opportunities for all players within the mobile value chain, as well as enabling millions of people to connect to the mobile internet."
There were 718 million mobile connections in Latin America at the end of September 2014. 2G currently accounts for 60 per cent of the total, but this share will shrink to about 20 per cent of the expected 956 million connections by 2020 as users migrate to mobile broadband. 3G accounted for 39 per cent of connections at the end of September, higher than the global average (32 per cent). 4G currently makes up just one per cent of connections but will account for a rapidly growing share as 4G deployments accelerate over the next few years.
Latin America was also one of the fastest-growing regions globally in terms of smartphone connections1 between 2010 and 2013, with the installed base of smartphones growing by 77 per cent per year (CAGR) during this period. Smartphones accounted for almost 30 per cent of regional mobile connections at the end of September 2014 (200 million) and are forecast to make up 70 per cent of the total (605 million) by 2020. By this point, Latin America will have the second-highest installed base of smartphones in the world, behind only Asia Pacific.
Subscriber Growth And Delivering The Internet of Things
The Latin America mobile market is now the fourth-largest globally, with almost 326 million unique mobile subscribers2 at the end of September 2014. Unique subscriber penetration (as a percentage of the population) is forecast to grow from just over 52 per cent today to almost 60 per cent by 2020, but still well below the 70-80 per cent penetration ceiling at which subscriber growth tends to stall.
Brazil is the largest single market in Latin America, accounting for a third (114 million) of the region's total unique subscriber base. The five largest markets in the region, in order of size, are Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Colombia and Venezuela, which together account for 70 per cent (230 million) of the regional total. Subscriber penetration rates in the major markets in Latin America range from a low of 37 per cent in Mexico to a high of 77 per cent in Costa Rica.
Machine-to-machine (M2M) services are a key area of growth and innovation in the region. According to the report, there were 16 million cellular M2M connections in Latin America at the end of September 2014, a figure that is expected to grow by 25 per cent a year (CAGR) in the period to 2020, reaching 66 million by that point.
Harnessing the Mobile Data Opportunity
The combination of accelerating mobile broadband and smartphone growth is driving rising mobile data consumption across the region. According to Cisco, mobile data traffic in Latin America is forecast to grow 66 per cent per year (CAGR) over the next few years, from 91,863 terabytes per month in 2013 to 1,158,090 terabytes per month in 20183, well ahead of the growth forecast for more developed markets such as Europe and North America.
The report also found that the number of mobile broadband connections surpassed fixed broadband connections in the region in 2011. This is the case in the five largest Latin American markets, including in Brazil, where there are over five times more mobile broadband than fixed broadband connections. Mobile is considered the primary method of accessing the internet for many of the Latin American population, particularly for those in rural areas.
A Rising Contributor to the Latin American Economy
Operator capex has totalled more than US$96 billion over the last six years (2008 to 2013) and investment levels are set to increase substantially over the coming years to accommodate data traffic growth, particularly as 4G deployments gather pace. Almost US$193 billion will be invested over the next seven-year period (2014 to 2020).
The mobile ecosystem is a major source of economic growth and job creation in Latin America. In 2013, the mobile industry contributed 4.1 per cent to total regional Gross Domestic Product (GDP), equivalent to US$242 billion4. By 2020, it is estimated that the contribution from the mobile ecosystem will grow to US$275 billion, representing 4.5 per cent of projected regional GDP by that point.
The industry directly employed approximately one million people in the region in 2013 and supported a further one million jobs indirectly elsewhere in the economy. The total contribution to public funding via taxation in 2013 was US$41 billion. This is in addition to contributions generated via spectrum auctions, which have totalled over US$4 billion in 2014 to date. It is estimated that the public funding contribution (excluding spectrum and other regulatory fees) will reach US$53 billion by 2020.
A Rapidly Evolving Market Landscape
The market dynamics and regulatory landscape is evolving rapidly across Latin America. The transition to the IP era is challenging the sustainability of existing operator business models, while rising demand for mobile data is putting pressure on networks and in some cases impacting quality of service. Meanwhile, regulatory intervention has increased and regulators have often favoured political rather than technical solutions.
"Latin American operators have demonstrated their commitment to the markets where they operate by sustaining investments in the face of tightening margins and heightened competition," added Bouverot. "To fully deliver on the positive transformative potential of mobile over the next six years and beyond, we require a transparent and sustainable regulatory framework that will encourage ongoing investments in network capabilities and coverage."
To access the full report please visit: latam.gsmamobileeconomy.com.
The GSMA represents the interests of mobile operators worldwide, uniting nearly 800 operators with more than 250 companies in the broader mobile ecosystem, including handset and device makers, software companies, equipment providers and Internet companies, as well as organisations in adjacent industry sectors. The GSMA also produces industry-leading events such as Mobile World Congress, Mobile World Congress Shanghai and the Mobile 360 Series conferences.
For more information, please visit the GSMA corporate website at www.gsma.com. Follow the GSMA on Twitter: @GSMA.
1 A smartphone connection is defined as a SIM card registered and used in a smartphone device. It does not represent the number of smartphone devices sold or shipped. 2 A unique mobile subscriber can account for multiple mobile connections. Mobile connections total includes cellular machine-to-machine (M2M) connections. 3 Cisco Visual Networking Index: Global Mobile Data Traffic Forecast Update, 2013–2018 4 GDP total includes direct and indirect contribution from mobile operators (0.9%); related players e.g. device manufacturers and infrastructure vendors (0.4%); general economic impact (0.3%); and productivity improvements (2.5%).
(Brazil)
Tatiana Cantoni, +55 11 95210-2225
taticantoni@pimenta.com
GSMA Press Office
pressoffice@gsma.com
Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town Goes Into Full-Scale Operation Near Tokyo
FUJISAWA, Japan - Saturday, November 29th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Fujisawa SST Council, a consortium led by Panasonic Corporation spearheading the development of the Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town (Fujisawa SST), held today a grand opening ceremony for the forward-looking town located on the outskirts of Tokyo. With its core facility supporting sustainable development of the town and its community now coming into operation, the Fujisawa SST is moving from the construction stage into a new stage where the town is nurtured to grow in full-scale into an eco and smart town that puts a high priority on the residents' lifestyles.
Called the Fujisawa SST SQUARE, the core facility is also the main landmark of the town and serves as a central communication base for people who get together there. The SQUARE plays a pivotal role in promoting the town's growth through its functions of managing the town, welcoming guests and fostering community. The Fujisawa SST Management Company is the town management company located in the SQUARE. Together with partner companies, the company provides five essential services in the town: energy, security, mobility, healthcare and community. The company will also collect and manage information pertaining to the town's overall environment, energy, security and safety to support an eco and smart life in the town.
For the guest support and community fostering services, there are various facilities in the SQUARE that are designed to promote interaction among those who gather in the town. The SQUARE Center has a cafe and kitchen corner where people can relax or host environmental education and other events, as well as a presentation corner that introduces main appeals of the town. The SQUARE Lab is a food and craft studio offering interactive workshops for the residents. The SQUARE Mobility provides environmentally-friendly means of transportation. In mid December, a cultural complex called the Shonan T-SITE will open on the south side of the Fujisawa SST SQUARE. The aim is to make the combined site a place that will foster enriched lifestyles by maximizing its value to the people who gather there, including not only the town residents but also people living in the vicinity and visiting from elsewhere.
As a fresh development in the town, the Fujisawa SST has set a detached housing zone for non car owners for the second phase of sales. By using the town's eco-car sharing and rent-a-car services, residents in the zone can enjoy their lifestyles without the need to own a car while reducing economic burden and making effective use of the lot. Preparations are also underway for a new base to provide environmentally-friendly logistic services to the residents.
As a town developing continuously and sustainably, the Fujisawa SST will embark on new initiatives for the future. The land under administration on the west side, presently unused and due for completion in 2018, will be used in collaboration with partner companies as a venue for verifying next-generation lifestyles and businesses. Starting with the Car Life Lab facility to be opened in December for display and test drives of electric vehicles, the new venue will be used as a place to generate new innovations, validating next-generation mobility for the practical use and verifying next-generation lifestyles with show homes. By using the state-of-the-art equipment and services that take shape here to create future towns, Fujisawa SST Council will pick up the pace of its efforts to realize the Fujisawa model, a town that can develop sustainably for 100 years.
[Video] The opening ceremony and the facility tour on November 27, 2014 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6WSXTWJY0Q Learn more about the Fujisawa SST http://ch.panasonic.net/contents/14568/ [Fujisawa SST Official Site] http://fujisawasst.com/EN/ [Panasonic's Eco Solutions] http://panasonic.net/es/solution-works/
Fujisawa SST Council Members Lead organizer: Panasonic Corporation
Organizers: Culture Convenience Club Co., Ltd., Dentsu Inc., Mitsui & Co., Ltd., Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd., Mitsui Fudosan Residential Co. Ltd., Nippon Telegraph and Telephone East Corporation, PanaHome Corporation, So-Two Inc., Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank, Limited, Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd.
Council members: Accenture, Ain Pharmaciez Inc., Gakken Cocofump Holdings Co., Ltd., Nihon Sekkei, Inc., Sohgo Security Services Co., Ltd., Sunautas Corporation
New members: Social Welfare Corporation Camellia,1 Yamato Transport Co., Ltd. - Social Welfare Corporation Camellia, Koyama Healthcare Group Representative: Yasunari Koyama Address: 3-36-13 Kameido, Koto Ward, Tokyo, Japan - Yamato Transport Co., Ltd. Representative: Toshihiko Hiratsuka (Branch Director, Yokohama Branch) Address: 5-31-27 Sugita, Isogo Ward, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
1. Newly participated as a provider of health, social welfare and education facilities, following the departure of the Social Welfare Cooperation Nagaoka.
Overview of Fujisawa SST SQUARE Opening: November 2014 Address: 6-21-1 Tsujido-motomachi, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Land area: 6,453.14 square meter (Total floor area: 1,485.11 square meter) Structure: Two-story, steel frame construction Overview: Fujisawa SST Management Company Undertakes businesses such as providing and operating services for the entire town; providing information and communications services; planning and running events; generating, supplying, selling and buying power. Sunautas Corporation Provides total mobility services at SQUARE Mobility such as sharing of eco-cars and electric-assisted bicycles, rental vehicle delivery and solicitation of life and property insurances.
Overview of Shonan T-SITE Opening: Planned for December 2014 Address: 6-20-1 Tsujido-motomachi, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Land area: 7,694.86 square meter (Total floor area: 5,921.12 square meter) Structure: Two-story, steel frame construction Overview: Culture Convenience Club Co., Ltd. A cultural complex with unique shops centering on those offering books and magazines. With the spatial design based on the concept of a Shonan lifestyle, the complex proposes the "spice of life" to enhance lifestyles of people living in Shonan, a region located along the Pacific Ocean in central Japan.
Overview of Fujisawa Sustainable Smart Town (for reference) Address: 6-4-1 Tsujido-motomachi, Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan Land area: Approx. 19 hectares Planned land use : Residential homes (approx. 1,000 homes)/commercial facilities/public facilities Planned population: Approx. 3,000 people Schedule: Town to be completed by 2018 Total project cost: Approx. 60 billion yen
Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50992959&lang=en
Panasonic Corporation
Global Communication Group
presscontact@ml.jp.panasonic.com
SOUTH AFRICA: AHF Global World AIDS Day Events Focus on Testing and Treatment
DURBAN, South Africa - Saturday, November 29th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE) -- PHOTO: Representatives from the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) and the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health march with local residents in Durban, South to celebrate the groundbreaking of the first AHF clinic in South Africa to be built from the ground up in Umlazi on May 12, 2014. For World AIDS Day, AHF will host over 160 events around the world to promote testing, treatment for HIV/AIDS; international commemorations will launch global campaign to connect twenty million HIV-positive people to treatment by the end of 2020. For more information, visit www.aidshealth.org/wad (Click on the "Worldwide Events" tab for list of international events.)
WHO: Holding banner: (2nd from right) Michael Weinstein, AIDS Healthcare Foundation President (Far right): Penninah Iutung Amor, MD, AHF Africa Bureau Chief
WHEN: May 2014
AIDS Healthcare Foundation
Ged Kenslea,
ged.kenslea@aidshealth.org
Christopher Johnson,
christopher.johnson@aidshealth.org
Ministry of Interior Sets Car Decoration Guidelines for the 43rd National Day
The Ministry of Interior (MoI), represented by the Traffic Coordination Department, has established the guidelines for car decorations for the 43rd National Day celebrations.
The MoI called upon motorists to comply with these requirements in all public areas across the country during this occasion. These requirements aim to provide safety, reduce traffic violations and accidents, and to avoid being subjected to the punishments as stipulated by the Federal Law on traffic.
Brigadier Ghaith Hassan Al Zaabi, Director General of the Traffic Coordination Department at the Ministry of Interior, said: "The requirements set the legal regulations for decorating vehicles during the National Day celebrations. The specified requirements are to enable all sectors of society to express their happiness for this dear national occasion in a way that involves civilized conduct and will not result in any violations. The ministry and the UAE police commands are keen to take the proper measures so that the day's celebrations are accident free- thus allowing everyone to enjoy the festivities.
The requirements state that other than the official parade, there shall be no other parade - for any reason. All traffic laws and police instruction shall also be adhered to and obeyed."
He stressed that the MoI encourages the community to celebrate this precious national event and to express their joy in a civilized manner. The requirements dictate that national statements written on cars should be proper and non-offensive to others, and that national flags and posters should be placed on the sides of the vehicles or in a location that does not endanger the safety of the driver or of others. All car decorations for the National Day should additionally respect the legal conditions of a 30% tint on the side and rear windows.
Brigadier Al Zaabi highlighted the decorations and behavior that are prohibited and what should be avoided, which include: coloring the windshield or blacking-out the side or rear windows; exceeding the number of allowed passengers in the vehicle; and persons leaning or standing outside of the windows, sunroof, roof of the vehicle, hood, or the trunk of the car. The directorate also warned against performing acrobatic stunts, disrupting traffic, parking in prohibited places, blocking roads, and equipping their vehicles with speakers. Additionally it is prohibited to make any modifications to the engine or the color of the vehicle, cover the vehicle's license plates, place posters in an area that obstructs vision, or for drivers or passengers to use sprays.
As per the Traffic Federal Law and Regulations, Brigadier Al Zaabi mentioned that the violators will be subject to penalties which may result in the confiscation of the driver's vehicle up to one month, 12 - 24 black traffic points in some violations, a fine ranging from AED 500 to AED 3000; and any additional penalties that may apply for those that violate National Day car decoration guidelines.
Brigadier Al Zaabi said: "As an embodiment of the strategy to improve road safety, the ministry is keen to redouble their efforts in order to prevent accidents, and the resulting injuries and fatalities that may subsequently follow, by carrying out a number of initiatives and procedures. Over the past two years, six people have been killed and 124 were injured as a direct result of not adhering to the traffic laws during the National Day celebrations."
G&Co and SPF Realty partner for Dh2.8bn Millennium Square project in Meydan City
Millennium Square, located in the heart of Meydan City, presents ultra-luxurious, semi-detached villas with the finest of exclusive suburban living.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Thursday, November 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
SPF Realty, the leading real estate broker in the UAE's freehold property sector, announced its exclusive endorsement by Meydan City developer G&Co for the third consecutive project -- Millennium Square, a brand new opulent residential community project within Meydan Development. This is in continuation of SPF Realty's successful association with G&Co after receiving overwhelming response for the previous two projects – Dhs 1.5 billion Millennium Estates, and 2.7 billion Grand Views at Millennium Estates.
G&Co is a premium property developer in the region, involved in planning and developing world-class master communities. SPF Realty has been bringing in a number of new residential projects across Dubai, creating strong rapport with major developers by selling their projects in record time than any other realty service provider in the market.
Millennium Square project features the very best of international architectural designs, mainly targeting property-seekers looking forward to live in opulent and exclusive surroundings with breathtaking nature. Located in the heart of Meydan City, the Millennium Square offers spectacular views, state-of-the-art amenities incorporating community-based facilities to make for a lifestyle that transcends even the extraordinary. Meydan is one of the largest and most luxurious integrated racing, business and lifestyle hubs in the world. Millennium Square encapsulates a harmonious blend of distinctive lifestyle with opulent semi-detached villas amidst wide-open spaces.
Commenting on the launch of the project, Mr. Mahendra Singh, Managing Director of SPF Realty, said, "It gives us great pride to announce the launch of Millennium Square, the city's newest residential project that redefines elite living. We are also happy to continue our partnership with G&Co and promote the project by developing insights on the market needs and opportunities offered by the Millennium Square project, which is valued at 2.8 billion Dirhams. This marquee community is the place that redefines elite living for those looking to live in glamorous, exclusive surroundings, enjoy breathtaking nature."
"The success of G&Co projects undertaken by SPF Realty reflects the increasing demand for housing properties in Dubai as more investors from different parts of the world are coming to this market. We are working on effective strategies for selling the new project. Further strengthening SPF Realty's leading position in the UAE market, this project will enable us incorporate our knowledge and expertise in rolling out outstanding sales and management services," he added.
"We are capable to fulfill the investors' requirements through our extensive understanding of the market and our wide-ranging expertise in property investment management. We maintain the trust of our investors and developers in our service standards. Our success is a reflection of the tremendous confidence and trust of the developers as well as investors in our marketing strategies and service standards," Mr. Singh further said.
"The Millennium Square project with ultra-luxurious, semi-detached villas offers the finest of exclusive suburban living with the convenience of nearby urban destinations - including Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Downtown Dubai and a direct link to Sheikh Zayed Road. The interiors of the semi-detached villas at Millennium Square pay a rich tribute to today's luxurious lifestyles. Modern and sleek amenities, furnishings and fittings with exquisite finishes make for a residential experience that's way beyond the ordinary," he added.
The 3479 Sqft semi-detached villas feature four bedrooms (With an option to convert into five bedrooms). The villas are placed at a starting price of AED 4,348,750 on a 40/60 payment plan, whereby the investor pays 40 per cent during construction and 60 per cent at the time of receiving the completed property.
SPF Realty acts as an extended selling arm of several premium real estate developers in the UAE. A number of developers are coming up with various higher grade properties, as the Emirate's realty sector caters to the rising demand and preference of the customers for higher grade and luxury spaces over the last two years.
These projects enabled SPF Realty incorporate its knowledge and expertise in rolling out outstanding sales and management services for hi-end properties. SPF Realty has experienced immense positive changes and growth in the market; hence the company will be announcing several more exclusive residential projects, in different locations.
SPF Realty showcased a strong growth in the local market — driven by its projects of unparalleled quality and value for the investors' money. We immensely contribute to the growth and pre-eminence of Dubai among the great cities of the world. We are catering to the needs of this global metropolis, which attracts both the end-users and realty investors alike. We have database of 500,000 investors and buyers.
Being a reliable consultancy in Dubai market, SPF Realty adds greater value to the investors' money with the best advice and proper guidance on any property-related requirements. Our focus is on protecting the customers' interests with our expertise, industry knowledge and wide network. We have implemented professionalism in meeting our commercial, ethical and legal responsibilities to better serve and support the investors.
About SPF Realty
SPF Realty was established in 2005 in Dubai with a vision to offer holistic solutions to all property-related requirements. The company mainly focuses on Real Estate Sale Brokerage and Real Estate Lease Brokerage services. SPF Realty has stood firm through the ups and downs of the nascent real estate market in Dubai to emerge as a leader in the field. With unmatched market expertize and uncompromising service quality as our backbone, we offer our clients a complete and customized service advisory package that assures appreciation and return on investment.
Dubai, without a doubt, is poised on the brink of becoming one of the world's leading investment hubs, and nobody understands this market better than SPF Realty. Through SPF Realty's extensive understanding of the market and the wide-ranging list of properties it manages, it can deliver requirements, regardless of whether one is looking for properties to buy and rent in Dubai, or seeking good value on the sales of an existing property.
SPF Realty's growing team of dedicated and expert professionals are always at the customer's service, ready to help make informed decisions on all property-related problems, while its varied and wide-ranging portfolio ensures that it provides excellent service to not just individual clients, but corporate clients as well.
For more information, please visit: www.spfrealty.com
Rasheed Palliyalil
Watermelon PR
rasheed@watermelonme.com
Al Ain Traffic Section Urges Motorists and Decoration Shops to Commit to Car Decoration Guidelines
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Monday, November 24th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
The Al Ain Traffic and Patrols Section, at the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police urged motorists and car decoration shops to observe the guidelines set for car decoration. The section also distributed awareness brochures to workers servicing vehicles at the various car decoration shops in the Al Ain and Al Hili Industrial Areas, urging workers to make sure they decorate cars without covering the windshield or driver's window, without changing the vehicle's color or obscure the license plates.
Colonel Hamad Nasser Al Bloushi, Head of Peripheral Regions Traffic Department at the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police, indicated that the police encourage people to enjoy the UAE 43rd National Day celebrations, but in a civilized and lawful manner.
Colonel Al Bloushi stressed the need to refrain from impeding traffic flow on main and side roads, parking in spaces dedicated for buses and taxis or and leaving vehicle on main roads. He also called upon the public not to use all types of sprays to spray others, neither by the driver nor the passengers.
Adding further, Colonel Al Bloushi called upon motorists wishing to participate in these celebrations to abide by traffic laws and the instructions of police officers in order to maintain their safety and enjoy the national event festivities without traffic accidents.
In the same context, the Traffic Institute Section at the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police organized traffic awareness programs to acquaint people with the National Day celebrations' guidelines at Abu Samrah Park in Al Ain, in collaboration with Al Ain Municipality. The celebrations will be held under the slogan "Abu Samrah Festival, Even More Beautiful".
Lt. Colonel Abdullah Salem Al Mahri, Chief of Traffic Institute Section at the Traffic and Patrols Directorate of Abu Dhabi Police, explained that participating in such societal events aims at maintaining communication with all community segments and increasing awareness about the UAE 43rd National Day celebrations guidelines. This is achieved through the traffic awareness brochures distributed by the section's pavilion at the Festival, which provide visitors with traffic-related information. A free drawing pavilion is also organized at the festival; all of which are designed to enhance traffic awareness among all community segments. Lt. Colonel Al Mahri added, "As part of the festival, we also organize awareness competitions about the main causes of traffic accidents, in addition to workshops to teach children about traffic lights and pedestrian crossings."
First Lieutenant Nasser Khalifa Al Shamesi, Public Relation Branch Manager at Al Ain Traffic Section noted that the Traffic Institute Section has participated in awareness lectures about the car decoration guidelines ahead of the grand celebrations of the UAE's 43rd National Day. The lectures also included tips and advice related to children safety and stressed the importance of refraining from blocking traffic flow on main and side roads or parking vehicles at bus and taxi stands.
Dubai Studio City Hosts a Day of Traditional Festivities to Celebrate the UAE's 43rd National Day
Dubai Studio City (DSC) today celebrated the UAE's 43rd National Day with a day of traditional activities, music and dancing. The community gathered to celebrate the UAE's 43 years of success, commemorating UAE's heritage and culture, with a traditional old 'Dukkan' market, sea performances, a model heritage village, a traditional wedding as well as local music and traditional Emirati food.
Commenting, Jamal Al Sharif, Managing Director of Dubai Studio City, said;
"Today's festivities are a true celebration of the UAE's culture and heritage and the great milestones that have been achieved. National Day marks the UAE's growth and development as well as national pride, and the wise leadership and vision of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai."
About Dubai Studio City
Dubai Studio City (DSC), part of TECOM Investments, a member of Dubai Holding, is home to world class production companies, talent, facilities and infrastructure for the production, broadcast and content creation industries, and offers investors in movie and TV production have the opportunity to build bespoke facilities on a significant and prime land bank. Home to global and regional production companies, DSC aims to establish Dubai as the region's epicentre for the production, broadcast and content creation industries. DSC has been operating since 2005, and has a wealth of experience, playing host to major industry players at a local, regional and global level as well as industry experts who are well positioned to act as thought leaders for the industry. DSC offers a variety of commercial space offerings to its business partners including warehouses and workshops, as well as its world-class Sound Stages, the largest of their kind in the region, which are specifically designed to meet the increasingly sophisticated needs of the high growth entertainment industry.
For more information please visit: www.dubaistudiocity.ae
Alexa Hooft Graafland
AHooftGraafland@bellpottinger.com
Consumer Behavior to Play Pivotal Role in Building a Green Economy
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Tuesday, November 25th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Consumer behavior will be pivotal in building a greener economy for Dubai, according to panelists at the third Green Leadership Series held by the Dubai Green Economy Partnership earlier this week.
The Green Leadership Series (GLS) is organised by Dubai Green Economy Partnership in collaboration with EnPark, TECOM Investments' Business Park dedicated to fostering the growth of the alternative energy and environmental industries, and a founding member of the Dubai Green Economy Partnership.
HE Ahmed Al Muhairbi, Secretary General of Dubai Surpreme Council of Energy opened the event to over 120 delegates. Following this, key note speaker and former TED Talks guest, Alex Laskey, Founder & CEO, Opower UK, presented a speech on how behavioral science can be used to lower energy costs across a range of industries. Using findings from an Opower study, he concluded that the most effective way to lower consumer, is by highlighting comparison graphs for their electricity bills, therefore promoting competition.
The discussion centered on agreement that once the infrastructure around sustainable energy solutions is identified and established, there is significant work to do to educate UAE residents so that these systems can be used effectively and efficiently. This is particularly relevant given the recent announcement of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy endorsement of the Carbon Abatement strategy developed in collaboration with Dubai Carbon.
The panelists concluded that an integrated approach with a combination of improved information, economic incentives and other benefits may drive consumers towards sustainable decisions. Reinforcing this sentiment, representatives from the RTA highlighted the importance of the new Dubai Tram, making the point that time saving can be as an important a reason for passengers to prefer public transport over vehicles.
Mr. Waleed Salman, Chairman of Dubai Green Economic Partnership, Chairman of Dubai Carbon and Vice President of Strategy and Business Development at DEWA said: "The Green Leadership series is a vital platform for proactive discussion about the UAE's sustainability efforts. Dubai has a unique position among global cities leading the transition to a green and sustainable economy due to its accomplished business strengths and advantages.
"At DEWA we aim to achieve organizational excellence in providing services to customers according to the highest quality standards, supporting Dubai's position as a global hub for finance, business, and all other fields. DEWA encourages its customers to use the various electronic services it offers and learn about how to use them."
Salman added; "Using DEWA's electronic and smart services helped eliminate 11,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions in 2013 as a result of DEWA's customers conducting 3.3 million transactions online and through the smart app. This amount of carbon dioxide is the equivalent amount that could have resulted from customers travelling to and from DEWA's offices. This equates to planting 56,331 trees in an area equivalent to 106 football fields."
Mr. Fahad Al Gergawi, CEO of Dubai FDI and Secretary General of Dubai GEP said: "The Green Leadership Series is unique in bringing together industry experts from across the sustainability sector to discuss how to further the UAE'S green economy through identification of opportunities, analysis of trends and private sector participation in shaping future policies. To grow and facilitate green consumer choices, financing tools must be developed, established and communicated. The first step in this process is to encourage stakeholders including selected suppliers and financial institutions to collaborate so that we can create an effective model."
Mr Marwan Abdulaziz, Executive Director of EnPark and Founding Member of the Green Economic Partnership said: "Consumer confidence has never been higher, as a recent Nielson survey ranked the UAE as the most optimistic in the Middle East and Africa region. We must use this confidence to positively impact our country in promoting a greener future.
"Small changes to our everyday life can make a significant impact. If we continue to educate and inform others how not only Government and organizational changes can affect our carbon footprint, but every individual, then together we will achieve our goals to become a green and sustainable nation."
Speakers at Green leadership Series
Waleed Salman, Chairman, Dubai GEP, Marwan Abdulaziz, Executive Director, EnPark, Shannon Scott, Manager Environmental Affairs, International, Government and Environment Affairs, Emirates Airline, Alistair Stranack, Partner, Credo Consulting, Jesus Gutierrez, Co-Managing Director Smart 4 Power, Sumair Sayani, Public Development & Sustainability Lead, Nielsen MENAP, Nielsen. ¡Eng. Nada Jasim, Policies and Planning Deputy Director, RTA and Priya Sarma, Corporate Communications Manager, MENA Region, UNILEVER.
About EnPark:
EnPark, a member of TECOM Investments, is a Free Zone Business Park dedicated to fostering the growth of the alternative energy and environmental industries, by offering excellent real estate facilities and providing access to the MENA region with a view to helping diversify Dubai's economy.
EnPark offers businesses technical and community infrastructure facilities across TECOM's portfolio of business parks promoting industry growth by acting as a bridge between businesses and Government.
As a founding member of the 'Green Economic Partnership', a strategic collaboration of Dubai's leading entities set up accordance with Dubai's Vision 2021, EnPark is dedicated to facilitating and fostering business growth and encouraging sustainable practices by providing a platform from which companies in the clean tech sector can operate. More than 50 companies, from clean-tech start-ups to energy multinationals, all operate under EnPark's licences.
Since it was established in 2006, EnPark has been widely recognized for its work and has received a number of high profile awards. In 2012, EnPark was awarded the "UAE Green Brand" and it was honored in the 'Excellence in Environmental Projects and Products – Future Projects' category at the Offshore Arabia 2009 Environmental Awards. It was 'Company of the Year' at the Alternative Energy Awards in 2008 for its role in raising awareness about sustainability concepts in the region.
About Dubai Green Economy Partnership
"Dubai Green Economy Partnership" is an initiative of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, inspired by the long term national green economy strategy "Green Economy for Sustainable Development" launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, to position Dubai firmly amongst global cities leading the transition to green economy.
"Dubai Green Economy Partnership" is the first multi-stakeholder and cross sector partnership to promote the transition to a green and low-carbon economy in the Middle East. The programs and initiatives of "Dubai Green Economy Partnership" aim to enable the growth of green trade and investment and accelerate the adoption of green technologies, products and services across regional and global markets.
The founding members from both public and private sectors are committed to showcase Dubai's vision, strategy and achievements to an influential global audience and forge world-class partnerships to help build capacity through global internships, event platforms and green trade missions among other activities and programs.
Wider members of the Green Economy Partnership include; DEWA, TECOM Investments Sciences Cluster (EnPark), Dubai FDI (with Mr. Fahad Al Gergawi, CEO, Dubai FDI as General Secretary of GEP), Dubai Supreme Council of Energy, Dubai Electricity & Water Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Roads &Transport Authority, Dubai Department of Economic Development, Pacific Controls, Dubai Carbon Centre of Excellence and Etihad Energy Services.
AHooftGraafland@bell-pottinger.com
The Largest Ever "G-STAR 2014" Ended in Great Success
SEOUL, South Korea - Friday, November 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Exceeded the expected 200,000 visitors in the BTC exhibition hall
The number of paying buyers (1,656) in the BTB exhibition hall increased by 18.5% (259 buyers) compared to the previous year.
G-STAR 2014
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The "Global Game Exhibition G-STAR 2014" attended by 617 domestic and international game-related companies from 35 countries, has ended its big four-day run in great success and recorded 200,509 estimated visitors.
The largest ever G-STAR 2014 commemorating its 10th anniversary was held with various attractions, such as additional events for celebrating the 10th anniversary, along with the BTC and BTB exhibitions. In addition, it provided greater satisfaction to visitors with high quality contents and events corresponding to the scale of the exhibition.
The entire hall on the first and third floor of the second exhibition hall in BEXCO was used for the BTB exhibition, and the number of paying buyers set a record at 1,656 buyers which is an increase of 18.5% compared to the previous year. Participants from domestic and international game industries who visited the exhibition selected the BTB exhibition hall of G-STAR as the best game business arena in Asia.
As the second G-STAR conference to be held since last year, 14 sessions discussing the topic of the current state of the game market and marketing strategies were held. In particular, the conference keynote session of the first day (Topic: How to deal with European Games Publisher and Distributors) attracted many participants in the game industry as it reflected the interests of the European market.
In addition, G-STAR and the largest game show in Europe, Gamescom of Germany, signed an MOU in order to carry forward with their strategic cooperative relationship at the G-STAR press room on Friday, November 21st.
At the G-STAR investment market for startups and small and medium-sized developers attended by 65 investors, publishers, and 20 qualifying developers and startups, a presentation of last year's accomplishments on game investment and publishing was successfully carried out. (In 2013, investment consultations were made for 28 investors and 24 game developers.)
G-STAR 2014 Organizing Office
Claudia. Lee,
info@gstar.or.kr
First Solely African Focused Reinsurer Authorised by UK Regulators
LONDON & JOHANNESBURG & PARIS & LAGOS - Wednesday, November 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- One Re, a newly formed non-life reinsurance company established to focus solely on business emanating from the African continent, has been approved by UK regulators.
The company is the first traditional start-up reinsurance company to be approved under the UK's new regulatory regime that came into effect in April 2013.
One Re, having been approved by one of the world's most stringent regulatory authorities, is able to provide local African insurance companies well-capitalised and transparent reinsurance solutions, backed by credit ratings and the oversight of the UK's strong regulatory bodies, the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
The founders have invested an initial USD 50,000,000 in cash as start-up capital to fund the London-based reinsurance company.
The Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of One Re, Mr Andrew Lewis, said: "One Re is committed to leveraging its fifteen-year track record of in-country experience in Africa, technical expertise and success in the African insurance market to support Africa's growth."
Mr Lewis said global investors' return to Africa has provided a great opportunity for local markets in Africa to develop and grow their local reinsurance sector.
The company is supported by A-rated international reinsurance companies who provide capacity and protection to the One Re portfolio.
Lewis said: "There is undoubtedly a return in global risk appetite. Sub-Saharan African markets have benefitted from renewed investor interest, which has provided an increase in demand for insurance and reinsurance in Africa."
Large infrastructural projects and developments taking place in Africa today are driving the demand for reinsurance. According to the latest forecasts by the IMF, Africa's sub-Saharan region will continue to be the second fastest-growing region in the world in 2015 with growth forecast to be 5.75%.
"The three key factors needed to support the growth of Africa's reinsurance markets are (1) specialist knowledge and technical expertise of risks in Africa, (2) in-country training, skills development and knowledge transfer and (3) an increase in the retention of risks and premiums in Africa," said Mr Lewis.
He said training and up-scaling local insurance knowledge and skills in African markets will be a priority for One Re.
In response to the challenge, One Re plans to invest in establishing insurance training institutions and programmes, specifically tailored for local African markets.
"One Re is solely focused on Africa, our success is dependent on the success of the entire African insurance industry. Our shareholders and majority of the executive management are African and have worked in Africa for over two decades; we are confident in the African continent and the sector's growth," said Mr Lewis.
About One Re:
One Re is an African focused professional reinsurance company with vast experience of working on the African continent. Based in the City of London, the international financial hub for global insurance and reinsurance, One Re is regulated by the joint regulatory regime of the Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Established by African insurance professionals, One Re serves the needs of the African insurance market – bringing together global capacity, African knowledge and local and international clients.
For more information on One Re: www.onere.com
One Re
Ms Claudia Anselmo,
canselmo@onere.com
Brand Communications
Ms Lynette Lambert,
lynette@brandcommsgroup.com
Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. Releases Regular Weekly Net Asset Value as of 25 November 2014
ME NewsWire/Business Wire
AMSTERDAM - Friday, November 28th 2014
Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. (ticker: PSH:NA) today released its regular weekly Net Asset Value (NAV) on its website, www.pershingsquareholdings.com. The NAV was computed as of the close of business on Tuesday, 25 November 2014.
PSH NAV per share as of close of business on 25 November 2014 was USD26.75.
Weekly net asset value is calculated at the close of business on each Tuesday and posted on the following Thursday. In the event that Tuesday is not a business day, PSH will calculate the close-of-business NAV as of the business day immediately preceding that Tuesday. In the event that Thursday is not a business day, any such NAV will be posted the next business day following that Thursday.
About Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd.
Pershing Square Holdings, Ltd. is a concentrated, research-intensive, fundamental value investor in the public markets.
StockWell Communications
Tim Burt,
Tim.Burt@stockwellgroup.com
Panasonic Solutions Expo Presents Full Suite of Consumer Products and Business Solutions for Myanmar Market
YANGON, Myanmar - Thursday, November 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Panasonic Solutions Expo
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Panasonic Solutions Expo opened at the Sule Shangri-La Hotel from 18-19 November 2014; the first big scale showcase of the company's full suite of technology, business-to-consumer (B2C) products and business-to-business (B2B) solutions available in Myanmar.
The Expo spans across six experiential booths - Corporate Branding, Residential, Energy Solutions, Hotel, Education and Convenience Store - to bring about 'A Better Life, A Better World' for consumers and business partners.
Booth Overview
1. Corporate Branding Zone walks visitors through Panasonic's milestones in the last 50 years
2. Residential Zone consists of "Made in Japan" products demonstrating Japan's high quality and advanced technology
3. Energy Solutions Zone highlights solutions for those living in areas with limited electrical infrastructure
4. Hotel Zone integrates communications and security solutions which aim to enhance hotel visitors' experience
5. Education Zone exhibits interactive and collaborative technology to make learning fun
6. Convenience Store Zone showcases Panasonic's cold chain solution
New Integrated Panasonic Showrooms and Service Centres
As part of the company's business strategy to increase customer touch points, two integrated Panasonic showrooms will open in Yangon and Mandalay by March 2015. Both showrooms will incorporate a service centre, providing after-sales support services, and showcase Panasonic's full B2C and B2B offerings. Panasonic Cooking and Panasonic Beauty corners enable customers to experience the products first-hand. In addition, Panasonic will also improve customer touch points at various sales channels, such as hypermarkets and independent retail shops.
Over 2,000 Solar Lanterns to Support Organisations Addressing Various Social Challenges
Under Panasonic's global 100 Thousand Solar Lantern Project, the company donated over 2,000 Solar Lanterns to eight non-governmental and humanitarian organisations in Myanmar to support their activities to address various social challenges. This is on top of the 5,000 sets donated in 2013.
"Compared to other Southeast Asian countries, electrification rate in Myanmar is relatively low at 49%. We received positive feedback from the recipient organisations on the utility of Solar Lanterns donated last year, such as how it has significantly helped improve working conditions in hospitals and schools. Hopefully, today's donation will further contribute to the resolution of social challenges faced by people living in Myanmar's rural areas," stated Rika Fukuda, General Manager, CSR & Citizenship Group, Groupwide Brand Communications Division, Panasonic Corporation.
[Video] Panasonic Solutions Expo for the Myanmar Market #PanasonicSolutions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN2g7O0lnnU [Photos] https://plus.google.com/photos/+Panasonic/albums/6083687453303056529
Panasonic Donates More Than 6,000 Solar Lanterns to Cambodia and Myanmar http://news.panasonic.net/stories/2014/1126_30211.html Panasonic Kicks Off Football Clinic for Myanmar Youths http://news.panasonic.net/archives/2014/1118_30102.html Panasonic Officiates Myanmar Branch http://news.panasonic.net/archives/2013/0606_22919.html
Panasonic's 'Cut Out the Darkness' Project to Continue and Create 'Zoo of Light' http://news.panasonic.net/stories/2014/1126_30215.html 100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project http://panasonic.net/sustainability/en/lantern/
Panasonic's 'Cut Out the Darkness' Project to Continue and Create 'Zoo of Light'
OSAKA, Japan - Wednesday, November 26th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Panasonic Corporation is promoting its "100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project," in which a total of 100,000 solar lanterns will be donated to regions around the world without access to electricity by the year 2018, which marks the 100th anniversary since Panasonic's establishment. In hopes of getting more people to know about the challenges faced by people in regions without access to electricity, Panasonic will open up the "Cut Out the Darkness" project for participation to people all around the world, delivering solar lanterns and manufactured shades based on designs recruited from all over the world to schools and households located in regions without access to electricity.
Currently, there are approximately 1.3 billion people worldwide living their lives without electricity. Many of those people live in homes that commonly use kerosene lamps for lighting, but the fire and smoke from these lamps pose serious fire and health risks. Unable to emit sufficient light, they also significantly restrict what people can do at night. The lack of electric lighting in these regions means significant challenges in the areas of health, education, and the economy. In this situation, solar lanterns, which can be used as lighting at night thanks to power stored in the battery which is generated by the sunlight during daytime, reduces the dangers of fire inherent to kerosene lamps, health hazards from smoke, and CO2 emissions. The project is beginning to solve the challenges faced by regions without access to electricity.
During Phase 1 of the "Cut Out the Darkness" project, 100 designs chosen by popular vote were used to produce shades, and were donated to Sumba, Indonesia, in March 2014. A video featuring shots taken during the donation was released on the "Cut Out the Darkness" website, sharing the thoughts of the people who designed the shades and the joys of the local people who received the solar lantern donations.
For Phase 2 (second donation phase) this time around, Panasonic will recruit shade designs centered on the theme of "animals." Similarly to Phase 1, the top 100 designs chosen by popular vote will be turned into shades and donated. With the donated lanterns, a "Zoo of Light" will be created, in hopes of bringing the entertainment of light to those people living in regions with no access to electricity.
This time around, we are also collaborating with the online community of artists and designers, "Behance Japan," to attract participation from individuals interested in art and design. We are hoping to have as many people as possible to submit designs, and by having people vote on the submitted designs, spread awareness and understanding of the challenges faced in regions with no access to electricity.
The progress of this project is continuously being updated on the official "Cut Out the Darkness" project website (http://cotd.panaosnic.net/) and "100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project" official Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/PanasonicSolarLantern)
Movie: What is "Cut Out the Darkness" project: http://ch.panasonic.net/contents/11938/ Report - Donation to Sumba: http://ch.panasonic.net/contents/12513/
"100 Thousand Solar Lanterns Project" website: http://panasonic.net/sustainability/en/lantern/
Tie-up: Behance Japan: http://behance-japan.net/cut-out-the-darkness/ http://behance-japan.net/
["Cut Out the Darkness" Project Overview (Schedule)]
[1] November 25, 2014 Phase 2 information released
[2] November 25, 2014 – Mid-January, 2015 (tentative) Accept shade design submissions and popularity votes on the project website. (*The submission acceptance period may be extended.)
[3] November 24, 2014 – Mid-January, 2015 (tentative) Tie-up with the artist community "Behance Japan." Call for project participation on the Behance website as well to recruit submissions from artists and designers.
[4] Late-January, 2015 – Early February, 2015 Select the top 100 designs submitted based on popular vote and create the lantern shades.
[5] Early-February, 2015 – Late-February Transport the 100 solar lanterns together with the created shades from Japan to the target region without access to electricity for donation. (The donation destination is planned to be West Timor, Indonesia.)
[6] Mid-March, 2015 – Late-March Create contents summarizing the project to be released on the project website, etc.
For inquiries related to this article:
COTD Project Office: info-cotd@hit-bits.com *Response period: 11/25 – 1/31, weekdays from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Excluding weekends, holidays, and dates around the New Year)
YKK's Animation "FASTENING DAYS" Now Playing Worldwide
Tokyo - Friday, November 28th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
Directed by Emerging Japanese Anime Creator Hiroyasu Ishida
Theme Song by Techno-Pop Trio, "Perfume"
Conveying YKK Fastening's slogan, "Little Parts. Big Difference." to the world
-Spanish, French and Chinese subtitles are available-
(BUSINESS WIRE)-- YKK Corporation (Headquarters: Tokyo Chiyoda-ku Kanda Izumi-cho 1, "YKK") has created a short animation titled, "FASTENING DAYS," in an effort to enhance the recognition of the YKK® brand and YKK® fastening products.
The short animation, "FASTENING DAYS," was created around the theme "fastening" in order to convey YKK's brand message, "Little Parts. Big Difference." to the world. The story takes place in a near future cosmopolitan city where people from many different countries live together. The main characters, Yoji and Kei, who help others with their handmade hi-tech machines, represent the message that small parts like zippers can "bring together" or "connect" things and be used to bridge differences and lead to a future full of possibilities.
The song, "Hurly Burly," released by Japanese pop group, Perfume, who made their U.S. debut in September 2014, is the theme song of the animation. Recently, Perfume has concluded their world tour, "Perfume WORLD TOUR 3rd" in New York City on Saturday, November 15, 2014.
When making this short animated film, YKK gathered together internationally known talent, including Hiroyasu Ishida from Studio Colorido, as the animation director. Ishida was awarded the Prize of Excellence in the Animation Category at the 14th Japan Media Arts Festival and a special mention at the Ottawa International Animation Festival for "Fumiko's Confession," which he released as a student in 2009.
"FASTENING DAYS" was released on YKK's official YouTube channel (http://www.youtube.com/user/YKKfastening), Youku Channel (http://i.youku.com/u/UMTgzMTA0NzM0NA==) and on its website (http://www.ykkfastening.com/fd/). It is available in Japanese, English, Spanish, French, and Chinese. It was released globally and will be used within commercials on YouTube in each country and region.
About YKK Corporation
The YKK Group manufactures fastening products, including zippers, hook and loop fasteners, plastic notions, webbings, and snaps and buttons, as well as architectural products, such as architectural framing systems for commercial businesses and vinyl windows and doors for residences. YKK is located in 71 countries and regions and consists of 108 companies (20 in Japan/88 overseas).
Short animation "FASTENING DAYS" PR Office
Initial Inc
Chiemi Akiyama,
YKKdougaPR@vectorinc.co.jp
YKK Corporation
Kaoru Miyata
Corporate Communication Group
ka-miyata@ykk.co.jp
Posted by Business Daily Africa at 12:15 AM No comments:
Public Interacts with MoI Celebrations of Universal Children's Day
ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates - Monday, November 24th 2014
In celebration of the Universal Children's Day, the public interacted with an initiative organized by the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior. The event took place in Abu Dhabi at the Dalma Mall in Mussafah.
This initiative reflects the keenness of the Ministry of Interior to communicate with all segments of the community, including children and their parents, throughout the various occasions. It aims to empower the role of the ministry in protecting children against risks, and falls in line with the directives of the higher leadership to raise the status of the UAE and become a model for child security and protection.
In his speech on the occasion of the Universal Children's Day, Major General Nasser Lakhrebani Al Nuaimi, Secretary General of the Office of HH Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Higher Committee for Child Protection at the Ministry of Interior, said: "Each year, on the 20th of November, the world comes together to celebrate Universal Children's Day. This day shall be observed as a day of child protection, and of happiness and rights, because children are the real wealth of the future. The date of the 20th of November marks the day upon which the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989. The leadership supports the efforts to provide care to children who are the building blocks of our homeland's present and the future."
Major General Al Nuaimi called upon all those who work in child-related fields to exert further effort in order to improve services and achieve excellence, which will thus positively reflect upon the image of the UAE and fulfill the vision of the higher leadership in this regard.
On this occasion, Major General Khalil Dawood Badran, Director General of Finance and Services at the Abu Dhabi Police, said in a statement: "Children deserve to be at the center of attention and care, for they are the real wealth and the actual gain of our homeland. Money is best invested when it is channeled towards childcare and child protection. Therefore, our leadership focuses on this segment and is keen to develop all services and to provide the best means of education for them."
"Education is a national priority and we urge the youth to seek advanced science and to gain extensive knowledge, as well as learn about the experiences of others; and to take these steps while following the best international measures, ideas, practices, views, and expertise across all fields. By doing so, they will be able to achieve a big step to the benefit of our country, and reach levels of excellence- which has become a prerequisite by our wise leadership which always seeks to be the first in achieving uniqueness and high ranks across all fields," Major General Khalil added.
Major Dr. Mohammed Khalifa Al Ali, Director of the Ministry of Interior's Child Protection Centre, said: "The ministry is keen to join in on the public participation and communications for all public events and occasions. We utilize SMS messaging and other modern means to promote child safety and security, and to raise awareness amongst parents in regards to the best ways to protect their children."
Major Dr. Al Ali added: "The Ministry of Interior consistently seeks the best practices to raise awareness on key issues – with an eye for the best results that will make the children of the UAE the happiest children on earth."
The event covered key aspects on child protection, which included risks regarding roads and transportation, technology, and the risks that may be found in houses and buildings. The public stressed the importance of such topics that benefit both children and their families. The public praised the initiative for its role in encouraging children to get involved and to follow the social media of the Ministry of Interior's Child Protection Centre in order to benefit from the awareness messages and instructions.
The event, which received positive feedback from the public, featured programs and activities in three languages -Arabic, English, and Hindi- in order to attract a wide spectrum of community segments.
A mother attending the event said: "The children become involved with the initiative through its cultural activities and competitions. It ignited the passion of both children and their parents." She also extended her gratitude to the Ministry of Interior's Child Protection Centre for organizing such a global event.
In a related context, the children expressed their happiness for the program, which included competitions, cultural information, and educational instructions to urge them to avoid any risky areas and to refrain from climbing windows and balconies. They also highlighted the advice related to online risks, and were given instructions regarding getting on and off of school buses.
The event was attended by a number of officers with a large public turn-out, which included both children and parents.
Vargatef® (nintedanib*) approved in the EU for lung cancer patients with advanced adenocarcinoma after first-line chemotherapy
INGELHEIM, Germany - Thursday, November 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
• Nintedanib*, when added to docetaxel, demonstrated over one year (12.6 months) median overall survival for advanced lung cancer patients with adenocarcinoma after first-line chemotherapy (vs. 10.3 months for patients receiving docetaxel alone)1
• The approval of nintedanib* in the European Union (EU) is primarily based on the positive results of the LUME-Lung 1 study of over 1,300 patients in 27 countries1
• In oncology, nintedanib* will be marketed in the EU under the brand name Vargatef®
(BUSINESS WIRE) - For media outside UK, US and Canada only
Today Boehringer Ingelheim announced that the European Commission has granted EU marketing authorisation for Vargatef® (nintedanib*), valid for the 28 countries within the EU. Vargatef® in combination with docetaxel is indicated for use in adult patients with locally advanced, metastatic or locally recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) of adenocarcinoma tumour histology, after first-line chemotherapy.
"The approval of nintedanib offers a much needed new treatment option for adult lung cancer patients with advanced adenocarcinoma in the second-line setting," commented PD. Dr Martin Reck, Head of Department of Thoracic Oncology, Lung Clinic Grosshansdorf, Germany and lead investigator of the LUME-Lung 1 trial. "The clinical data has shown that patients receiving nintedanib plus docetaxel experienced over one year overall survival with no further compromise to their quality of life, compared to docetaxel alone."
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of lung cancer and the majority of patients are diagnosed in an advanced stage.2 Most patients will experience disease progression during or after first-line chemotherapy and there is a significant unmet need for new, effective second-line treatments.3
"We are delighted by the European Commission's decision to approve Vargatef® in the EU and feel extremely proud that our long standing commitment to oncology research and development has brought a new option to lung cancer patients with this specific type of disease," said Professor Klaus Dugi, Chief Medical Officer, Boehringer Ingelheim. "The approval of Vargatef® expands our oncology portfolio, following last year's approval of GIOTRIF® (afatinib) for another specific type of lung cancer. In the idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis indication, nintedanib has recently been approved by the U.S. FDA."
The approval of nintedanib*, a triple angiokinase inhibitor, is based on the outcomes of the LUME-Lung 1 clinical trial which enrolled 1,314 patients with NSCLC, after first-line chemotherapy.1 Data from the study, published in Lancet Oncology (Feb 2014), demonstrated that compared to docetaxel alone, nintedanib* when added to docetaxel significantly extended median overall survival from 10.3 to 12.6 months (p=0.0359; HR: 0.83) for patients with adenocarcinoma, with a quarter of patients surviving for two years or more (survival at 24 months – nintedanib* plus docetaxel, 25.7% of patients vs. placebo plus docetaxel, 19.1% of patients, p=0.0359; HR: 0.83).1
Nintedanib* demonstrated a manageable adverse event profile without further compromising patients' overall health-related quality of life. Adding nintedanib* to docetaxel did not significantly increase discontinuation rates, compared to docetaxel alone.1
Nintedanib* is an oral, twice-daily treatment and is the second approved compound in the Boehringer Ingelheim oncology portfolio. GIOTRIF® (afatinib‡) was the first oncology drug from the portfolio to be approved to treat non-small cell lung cancer patients with distinct types of EGFR-mutation positive NSCLC.
*Nintedanib is approved in the EU under the brand name Vargatef® for use in combination with docetaxel in adult patients with locally advanced, metastatic or locally recurrent NSCLC of adenocarcinoma tumour histology after first-line chemotherapy. Nintedanib is under regulatory review by health authorities in other countries outside the EU. Nintedanib is not approved in other oncology indications.
‡Afatinib is approved in a number of markets, including the EU, Japan, Taiwan and Canada under the brand name GIOTRIF® and in the US under the brand name GILOTRIF® for use in patients with distinct types of EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC. Registration conditions differ internationally, please refer to locally approved prescribing information. Afatinib is under regulatory review by health authorities in other countries worldwide. Afatinib is not approved in other indications
-- ENDS –
Please click on the link below for 'Notes to Editors' and 'References':
http://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/news/news_releases/press_releases/2014/27_november_2014_oncology.html
For more information please visit www.boehringer-ingelheim.com
Media + PR
Arnd Prilipp
Phone: +49 6132 – 77 2091
Fax: +49 6132 – 77 6601
Email: press@boehringer-ingelheim.com
www.boehringer-ingelheim.com
GlobalCollect and UnionPay International Announce Worldwide Acquiring Partnership
Deal connects top tier merchants to holders of 4.5 billion UnionPay cards
AMSTERDAM - Thursday, November 27th 2014 [ME NewsWire]
(BUSINESS WIRE) - GlobalCollect, an Ingenico Group company, and UnionPay International, a subsidiary of the fast growing global payment network China UnionPay, today unveiled a worldwide partnership that sees GlobalCollect become a worldwide acquirer for the UnionPay network. UnionPay is the number one international card brand in the world measured by the number of cards issued.
With the agreement, GlobalCollect can now connect its client base of leading, international eCommerce companies with the holders of 4.5 billion UnionPay cards, creating access to rapidly growing eCommerce markets across Asia and beyond.
Merchants offering their consumers to pay with UnionPay cards through GlobalCollect now benefit from faster boarding and implementation, full service processing and consolidated reporting. GlobalCollect processes UnionPay payments in over 90 authorization currencies worldwide.
"eCommerce is booming in China and across Asia Pacific, with Chinese consumers in particular increasingly shopping for international brands. This is driving a boom in cross-border commerce to China and creates huge opportunities for GlobalCollect merchants," said Mark Patrick, General Manager Asia Pacific at GlobalCollect. "GlobalCollect represents the top tier of international eCommerce merchants, and with this partnership in place, we can now help these merchants expand their regional footprint and connect with millions of consumers from China and beyond."
According to "The Global Impact of Chinese e-Commerce", online cross-border shoppers (known as "hai tao" in China) are expected to spend $22.68 billion by 2014, an increase of more than 80% from 2013. Popular products among the hai tao include luxury items such as cosmetics, clothing and perfume. Other rapidly growing sectors of the digital economy include travel, with digital travel sales in China expected to increase by 34.2% year over year to $8.72 billion in 2014, and gaming, with online game revenue in China forecasted to surpass $16.3 billion in 2014 and then exceed $32.5 billion in 2017.
"Chinese consumers are increasingly participating in the global online marketplace, as evidenced by the rapid growth in the number of cross-border transactions that UnionPay International enables," said Hong Tao, General Manager, Sales and Support Department at UnionPay International. "GlobalCollect represents some of the world's premier online merchants in retail, travel and digital goods, and our partnership with GlobalCollect further expands the range of high quality, international products and services that are available to our cardholders."
About GlobalCollect
GlobalCollect, an Ingenico Group company, is the world's most knowledgeable global Payment Service Provider, processing international eCommerce payments for more than 600 of the world's most recognized eCommerce brands in the digital goods and services, travel, retail and video gaming industries, among many others.
Headquartered in Amsterdam, GlobalCollect is a 100% subsidiary of Ingenico Group and has regional offices in North America, Asia Pacific, South America and the EU focused on bringing local presence with global reach and services to our clients. For more information please visit: http://www.globalcollect.com
About UnionPay International
UnionPay International (UPI) is a subsidiary of China UnionPay focused on the growth and support of UnionPay's global business. In partnership with more than 300 institutions worldwide, UnionPay International has enabled card acceptance in over 140 countries with issuance in more than 30 countries. UnionPay International provides high quality, cost effective and secure cross-border payment services to the world's largest cardholder base and ensures convenient local services to a growing number of global UnionPay cardholders and merchants. For more information, please visit www.unionpayintl.com
GlobalCollect
Jurriaan Trommels
Senior Manager, PR & Communications
press@globalcollect.com
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"Did you get the picture you wanted?", asked the lady collecting the carts outside of Trader Joe's.
She saw I was still fiddling with my troublesome lens - the one where the autofocus sometimes works - so she made her way to the store entrance with the two carts she'd gathered from the parking lot, leaving me to continue with my composition of the lone cart along the wall.
There is an empty building space (the old Saks building) in between the new Trader Joes' and Williams Sonoma at the Arboretum. I have no idea what the new store will be, but for some reason there are several large photographs plastered on the windows. When I saw the bright red shopping cart against the black and white street photo, I knew I had to make my own photograph.
On the way into the store, I noticed some beautiful green plants which I thought might look good in black and white. Sage commented on how soft the leaves were and I watched with anticipation as he grabbed at the leaves.
The day had been a challenge with the younger two pushing my buttons all day long. First, the one with the waterworks. With her being able to cry on demand, I'm guessing she'd do well as an actress. No onions needed.
"Sagey threw my shoe...why don't you care about that...Sagey broke my special magic wand...don't take my picture...". On it went.
Then mischievous Sage with "it wasn't me". No, it's never you, is it.
Cinnamon finally let me take her photo and showed me the broken magic wand that Sage broke. "By accident", he claims. He has a knack for breaking a lot of things. Somehow they're never intentional.
At that point I decided I needed to do something, anything. Get in the car with the kids and go somewhere, anywhere. Which is how we ended up at Trader Joe's buying an orange for tomorrow's cake, more Greek feta, provolone, spaghetti for tonight's dinner, Nero d'Avola, two different chocolates, and a small box of lasagna with which I plan to create some kind of vegetarian meal for one next week.
Sometimes when things seem impossible, the best thing to do is to get up, get out, and do something...anything.