Day: April 4, 2022

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IDSC: Cairo tops business cities in Africa

The Cabinet’s Information and Decision Support Center said Monday that Cairo came first in the Global Business Cities Ranking for Africa.

A 2022 research report published by Statista Global Business Cities has ranked Egypt’s Cairo as the top business city in Africa.

The index is based on a number of sub-indices: The dimension “Economy” examines the economic strength and the level of development of the respective city.

The “Business environment” component focuses on infrastructure and logistics. “Society” analyses population development and the areas of education and standard of living. The “Charisma” dimension highlights aspects such as tourism, culture and the environment.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Planning minister confers with sustainable development expert on future cooperation

Minister of Planning Hala El Saeed conferred on Monday with Director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University Jeffrey D. Sachs on means of boosting future cooperation to achieve the objectives of sustainable development.

The World Bank Group’s senior vice president for the 2030 Development Agenda, UN Relations, and Partnerships Mahmoud Mohieldin attended the meeting.

During the meeting, the minister reviewed Egypt’s vision for 2030 to cope up with the latest international developments along with the main features of the state’s investment plan.

She also pointed out to Egypt’s participation in the UN efforts to achieve sustainable development within the framework of the UN’s plan for sustainable development for 2030, asserting Cairo’s keenness on exchanging expertise and successful experiments in this field.

Sachs, who is a world-renowned economics professor, bestselling author, innovative educator, and global leader in sustainable development, said Egypt has decided to face and handle a number of important and tough issues.

He said Egypt enjoys all potentials which enable it to be a producer and exporter of solar energy and other types of renewable energy.

He underlined the importance of providing the appropriate atmosphere for women, noting that the ratio of working women in Egypt stands at 25 percent only and it could reach up to 60 percent through remote working systems.

Sachs also called for working on decreasing the digital gap in Egypt as the government can oversee the electronic platforms in cooperation with the private sector, highlighting the importance of the electronic applications in the financial transactions, education and health domains.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Development portfolio between Egypt, Japan records dlrs 2.8 bn

Minister of International Cooperation Rania el Mashat said the development portfolio between Egypt and Japan in various domains hit dlrs 2.8 billion.

She noted that Japan contributed to supporting the government’s plans for responding to the coronavirus pandemic.

She made the remarks on Monday during a meeting with Japan’s Ambassador in Cairo Oka Hiroshi within the framework of meetings with international development partners.

She said the coming period will witness more progress in various cooperation domains in light of the state’s development priorities, highlighting the importance of benefiting from Japan’s pioneering experiment in the comprehensive health insurance domain.

She also voiced hope that Japanese investments would increase in the local market in the coming period.

Mashat reviewed the state’s efforts to prepare for the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) and ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation with development partners for green transition.

For his part, the Japanese ambassador reviewed his country’s preparations for the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD8) which is due to be held in August 2022.

He added that his country is looking forward to injecting more investments into Egypt as well as cooperation in hydrogen and blue ammonia.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Shoukry flies to Moscow under AL’s Ukrainian crisis liaison group tour

Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry headed for Moscow on Monday and then will fly to Warsaw within the framework of a tour of the Arab League’s Ukrainian crisis liaison group at the ministerial level.

The tour comes in implementation of the Arab League Council recommendations to hold consultations with the parties concerned in order to work out a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ahmed Hafez twitted.

The group, which includes representatives from Egypt, Jordan, Algeria, Iraq, Sudan and the UAE (a current member of the United Nations Security Council), was formed out of the 157th session of the Council of the Arab League in March.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Sisi urges turning Nasser Institute into research hub

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi directed the bodies concerned to work for transforming Nasser Institute into research hub and an integrated medical city.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli and Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Khaled Abdel Ghaffar on Monday, Sisi also called for increasing the facility’s bed capacity and improving its infrastructure, while ensuring a sustainable provision of medical services.

Sisi also instructed the bodies concerned to establish an Egyptian mathematics academy to embrace and support math geniuses, which will help in academically linking mathematical sciences with new technologies, and enhance local software and cybersecurity industries.

The meeting took up the implementation status of some major national projects in the healthcare, higher education, and scientific research sectors, according to Presidential Spokesman Bassam Radi.

Briefing the president on the institute’s development scheme, Abdel Ghaffar said that the facility will have new buildings for pediatrics and internal medicine, outpatient clinics, a research center for genetic diseases, in addition to an airfield for ambulance aircraft, and river ambulance unit.

Abdel Ghaffar also posted the president on the activities of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow in Egypt.

This year the college will start offering training opportunities and organizing fellowship exams in cooperation with the Research Institute of Ophthalmology and the Faculty of Dentistry at Ain Shams University, the minister said.

Sisi also instructed the bodies concerned to build permanent premises for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow in the New Administrative Capital, the spokesman added.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Shoukry, FMs of Arab Group, AL chief arrive in Moscow

Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, foreign ministers of the Arab Contact Group and Secretary General of the Arab League (AL) Ahmed Abul Gheit arrived in the Russian capital Moscow as part of efforts to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis in Ukraine, the Foreign Ministry’s Spokesman Ahmed Hafez tweeted Monday.

Shoukry earlier headed to Moscow and he will then head to Warsaw as part of the Arab Contact Group’s visit at the ministerial level to find a diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis and in implementation of the outcome of the AL Council to hold necessary consultations and contacts with parties concerned.

Source: State Information Service Egypt

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Hitachi Energy launches OceaniQ™ – innovative solutions for the offshore environment

The company’s recently launched transformers for floating applications are the first entry into the OceaniQ™ portfolio of solutions that address the unique challenges of the offshore environment

Zurich, Switzerland, April 04, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hitachi Energy today launched its OceaniQ™ portfolio(*1) for the offshore energy environment, which will be showcased this week at the annual WindEurope event in Bilbao, Spain. The global technology and market leader in power grids, which has a proven track record(*2) in pioneering solutions for offshore, has created OceaniQ to help accelerate the clean energy transition. OceaniQ will result in greater volumes of wind power being efficiently harvested and integrated into the world’s energy system.

Combining cross-industry competence from the power and marine sectors, OceaniQ addresses applications for fixed platforms, floating structures and sub-sea power systems for wind, marine and other offshore operators. Hitachi Energy rigorously designs its OceaniQ products, services and solutions in collaboration with customers and partners, which are designed to solve the specific needs of offshore energy operators.

Key characteristics of OceaniQ solutions feature a modular design to enable timely installation and the ability to quickly connect energy assets to onshore. OceaniQ solutions take advantage of digitalization, enabling safe and secure remote monitoring and other services such as predictive maintenance. Designs are also ruggedized to withstand harsh marine conditions, minimizing the need for physical service over their lifetime. OceaniQ solutions also embody the rigorous application of lifecycle thinking.

OceaniQ™ transformers for offshore floating applications

The first products to be announced as part of the OceaniQ portfolio are Hitachi Energy’s recently announced transformers for offshore floating applications. Since the first commercial projects in the early 1990s, offshore wind electricity generation has grown enormously, with more than 35 gigawatts(*3) capacity currently worldwide. Yet building offshore brings great challenges beyond the harsh salt-water environment and only a small fraction of the full potential has been exploited. This is because many offshore areas do not have a suitable seabed and beyond 60-meter depths are not optimal for fixed structures.

OceaniQ™ transformers and shunt reactors are key equipment in the grid infrastructure that enables the transmission of electricity generated in offshore wind farms. This full and qualified range of equipment has been developed in partnership with the forefront floating offshore developers. It brings in world-leading experience to meet requirements, featuring a lightweight, compact and modular design that comprises of specially-designed transformer active part, tank and components.

“In OceaniQ, our world-class engineers take pride in pioneering solutions that overcome harsh offshore conditions and ultimately, help society move towards a carbon-neutral future,” said Bruno Melles, Managing Director of Hitachi Energy’s Transformers business. Bruno added, “Floating electrical systems are an important development in the evolution of the offshore renewable industry that will open up tremendous opportunities and unlock new business models that are built on clean power. OceaniQ is fully in the spirit of Hitachi Energy’s Purpose, which is focused on advancing a sustainable energy future for all.”

Alfredo Parres(*4), Head of Renewables at Hitachi Energy commented, “Wind power is one of Earth’s bountiful and free-giving natural resources and through the OceaniQ offshore portfolio, customers will be able to harness and integrate it more efficiently. Alfredo continued, “Through OceaniQ, we are building a more sustainable, flexible and secure energy system by bringing together our experts in offshore applications and wind farm connections to develop and build the solutions needed for a more integrated, interconnected and high-quality power grid. I am excited to be discussing OceaniQ with customers at WindEurope this week and how together, we can continue to pioneer technologies that maximize the full potential of offshore wind.”

This latest portfolio development from Hitachi Energy continues to demonstrate the company’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation for sustainable offshore energy environment solutions, adding to an already extensive offering. The company expects to announce new additions to the OceaniQ portfolio in the coming months. The launch of OceaniQ follows the company’s recent launches of IdentiQ™ – its digital twin solutions for HVDC and power quality – and EconiQ™ – its portfolio of solutions which are proven to deliver an exceptional environmental performance resulting in significant reductions in carbon footprint.

Notes

(*1) Read more about OceaniQ: https://www.hitachienergy.com/oceaniq

(*2)  Three examples of Hitachi Energy’s proven track record in offshore wind:-

(*3)  Global Wind Energy Council’s Global Offshore Wind Report 2021

(*4) Read one of Alfredo Parres’ Perspectives on offshore wind: Offshore synergy – combining oil & gas experience with grid technology leadership for sustainable energy | Hitachi Energy

Attachment

Rebecca Bleasdale
Hitachi Energy Ltd.
+41 78643 2613
rebecca.bleasdale@hitachienergy.com
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Cityneon Brings Avatar: The Experience To The Iconic Cloud Forest At Gardens By The Bay Singapore

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 4 April 2022 – Avatar: The Experience will debut at Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay welcoming guests later this year. This immersive walk-through event based on the global blockbuster film AVATAR is a uniquely designed collaboration between Cityneon Holdings, Disney Location-Based Experiences, and James Cameron and Jon Landau’s Lightstorm Entertainment.

Mr. Ron Tan, Cityneon’s Executive Chairman and Group CEO, shares, “It’s an honor to present Avatar: The Experience with the support of the Singapore Tourism Board and Gardens by the Bay. We are excited to contribute to the inspiring creative culture of Singapore. The iconic Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay, one of Asia’s most popular horticultural attractions, becomes the perfect scenic location. We look forward to welcoming guests to this carefully-curated event.”AVEX

Lightstorm Entertainment’s President of Franchise Development, Ms. Kathy Franklin, states, “The opening of Avatar: The Experience in Singapore is a unique opportunity to continue expanding the global reach and impact of AVATAR, the highest-grossing film of all time. As the first of our four AVATAR sequels comes to theaters this December, this is the perfect time – and the perfect place – to explore and celebrate the wonders of Pandora in an all-new way.”

Set at Cloud Forest with its iconic vision of waterfalls, spiraling walkways and a unique architectural glass greenhouse, Avatar: The Experience invites guests to connect with the alien world of Pandora, its bioluminescent environments, mystical creatures, flora, and the captivating culture of its indigenous people, the Na’vi.

Mr. Felix Loh, Chief Executive Officer of Gardens by the Bay, says, “Over the years, Gardens by the Bay has emerged as a foremost icon for Singapore. Many visitors associate the aesthetic of Gardens by the Bay with the stunning environments from the film AVATAR. Even more remarkable is the shared appreciation for the natural world that surrounds us. This collaborative opportunity serves as a one-of-a-kind event and adds to the significance of our 10th anniversary celebrations.”

Ms. Ashlynn Loo, Director, Attractions, Entertainment and Tourism Concept Development, adds, “We are thrilled that Singapore will be the debut destination for Avatar: The Experience. As we prepare to welcome more visitors, such innovative and immersive experiences are a timely addition to our calendar of vibrant leisure events and reinforce our destination attractiveness. The experience also demonstrates the industry’s confidence in Singapore’s strong fundamentals as a leisure destination and is testament to our exemplary track record in delivering high-quality experiences.”

We look forward to welcoming you! Additional details will be announced soon. Sign up to be the first to know by visiting: www.AvatarTheExperience.com

About Cityneon Holdings

Cityneon is a global leader in immersive experiences that holds global partnerships with billion-dollar studios such as The Walt Disney Company and Marvel Entertainment for Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. and Marvel Avengers Station: Evolution and 20th Century Studios for AVATAR: The Exhibition, Hasbro for Transformers: The Experience, NBCUniversal for Jurassic World: The Exhibition, and Lionsgate for The Hunger Games: The Exhibition. Cityneon has also recently announced a partnership with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment to produce two brand-new, unique global touring themed art experiences inspired by DC and the Wizarding World, slated to launch in 2023. The company also partners the governments of Peru and Egypt for their original artifact IP experiences, Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru and Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs respectively. These partnerships have enabled the Group to bring compelling experiences that leave lasting memories to visitors in more than 50 cities to date globally.

With its global reach and international partnerships, Cityneon has the capability to serve its clients anywhere in the world. Cityneon was listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Stock Exchange since 2005, and was privatized on February 2019 by West Knighton Limited, a company wholly owned by Cityneon’s Executive Chairman and Group CEO, Ron Tan, together with Hong Kong veteran entrepreneur and investor, Johnson Ko Chun Shun. Johnson is a capital markets veteran and has held controlling interests and directorships in many listed companies. In May 2019, Cityneon welcomed CITIC Capital as a new shareholder, who holds approximately 9% shares in Cityneon. CITIC Capital is part of CITIC Group, one of China’s largest conglomerates, and has over US$29B of assets under its management across 100 funds and investment products globally. Other institutional shareholders of the Group include EDBI – a Singapore government-linked global investor, and Pavilion Capital – a Singapore-based investment institution which focuses on private equity investments, that made strategic investments to the Group in August and October 2019 respectively. In April 2021, Cityneon welcomed new investors Seatown Holdings International, Qatar’s Doha Venture Capital, which will now own approximately 4% of the Group, and other financial institutions

and family offices in Singapore and China, joining the already strong stable of shareholders to support the Group’s further expansion globally. For more information, please visit www.cityneongroup.com.

#Cityneon

About Gardens by the Bay

An integral part of Singapore’s “City in Nature” vision, Gardens by the Bay is a national garden and premier horticultural attraction that showcases the best of garden and floral artistry for all to enjoy. Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore’s downtown Marina Bay, it comprises three waterfront gardens – Bay South, Bay East, and Bay Central. Bay South, the largest at 54 hectares, officially opened on 29 June 2012.

Guided by the vision to be a world of gardens for all to own, enjoy and cherish, the Gardens’ extensive plant collection, ever-changing floral displays, and myriad of engaging programs have captured the imagination of many, while its Gift of Gardens community initiative, with Madam Halimah Yacob, President of the Republic of Singapore as Patron, reaches out to people from all walks of life.

Since opening, Gardens by the Bay has welcomed more than 80 million visitors and garnered numerous international awards including a silver for Destinations Building Back Better Post-Covid at the World Responsible Tourism Awards 2021, Best Attraction Experience at the Singapore Tourism Awards 2019, and ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award presented by ASEAN Tourism in 2018. The Gardens continues to refresh and refine its offerings, to be a place that everyone can enjoy – a garden where wonder blooms. For more information, please visit www.gardensbythebay.com.sg

About the Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, we shape a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape. We bring the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions. For more information, please visit www.stb.gov.sg or www.visitsingapore.com

For more information and any other enquiries, please contact:

Ng Yuin Yi

VIM & VIGOUR

Senior Account Manager

[email protected]

+65 9274 7372

 Amber Ng

VIM & VIGOUR

Senior Account Executive

[email protected]

+65 9628 6917

 Wong Yilin

CITYNEON HOLDINGS

Group Head, Corporate Relations

[email protected]