Topics: investment

• Cui Tiankai, former Chinese Ambassador to the United States: cognitive and narrative issues in Sino-US relations
• Professor Huang Renwei, Distinguished Vice President of China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy, Executive Director-General, Fudan Institute for Belt and Road and Global Governance: the death of Henry Alfred Kissinger, former US secretary of state, inspired a new era in international relations

GUANGZHOU, China, Dec. 8, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The Understanding China Conference, a prestigious event hosted by China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy, recently took place in Guangzhou, China. The conference, centered on China's New Endeavors Amid Unprecedented Global Changes—Expanding the Convergence of Interests and Building a Community of Shared Future, featured a keynote speech from Cui Tiankai, advisor to the Council of Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs and former Chinese Ambassador to the United States, during the luncheon. The luncheon event was presided over by Zheng Yongnian, Chairman of the Guangzhou Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Greater Bay Area Research Institute and Dean of the Qianhai International Affairs Research Institute at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (Shenzhen).

Cui Tiankai underscored the necessity of a precise narrative to grasp China's essence. He highlighted three widespread mistaken acknowledgement about China's foreign policy: China's strategic global intentions, China's peripheral foreign policy, and China's diplomatic style. He also voiced his inclination to select "Sun Wukong" to epitomize China's diplomatic style, marked by loyalty, steadfastness, discernment of good and evil, potent capability, and distinct Chinese cultural aspects.

On November 29, before the conference, former US Secretary of State, Mr. Kissinger, passed away.

"Many people mentioned and commemorated him in their speeches at the Conference. His interest in global strategic stability and his expansive vision for world leadership are well-known," said Professor Huang Renwei, Distinguished Vice President of China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy and Executive Director-General, Fudan Institute for Belt and Road and Global Governance.

"The passing of Mr. Kissinger has ushered in a new chapter in international relations. Kissinger often said that each visit to China brought fresh insights and knowledge. As a symbol of an era, his passing did not end that era; instead, sparked a new period in international relations."

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Clinical investigators complete enrollment in the 177 patient, randomized, controlled study, STAND (A Clinical Evaluation of the MicroSTent PeripherAl Vascular SteNt in subjects with Arterial Disease Below the Knee, NCT03477604).

WILMINGTON, Mass., Dec. 6, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Micro Medical Solutions (MMS), an innovator in the field of microvascular intervention to improve clinical outcomes and quality of life in patients with CLI/CLTI, announced today that it has completed its U.S. pivotal clinical study enrollment evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the MicroStent System compared to the current standard of care, PTA (percutaneous transluminal angioplasty). The MicroStent System has already obtained CE Mark approval for use in the EEA.

STAND (A Clinical Evaluation of the MicroSTent PeripherAl Vascular SteNt in subjects with Arterial Disease Below the Knee) enrolled its final patient earlier this month marking the completion of the study. MicroStent is a vascular stent specifically designed to achieve and maintain tibioperoneal arterial patency improving blood flow and wound healing for below-the-knee amputation reduction in patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) resulting from progressive peripheral artery disease (PAD).

"I would like to thank the investigators and the research teams for their dedication, participation, collaboration and tremendous effort to help this complex and difficult patient population. I'm excited to continue to provide research expertise to the company and discuss the study results when available," said lead investigator, Dr. Robert E. Beasley of Palm Vascular Centers in Miami Beach, Florida.

"CLI/CTI is the most severe clinical manifestation of PAD. We are excited to see the data unfold to further understand the impact of angiosome directed endovascular intervention and its impact on wound healing, limb salvage and patient living independence. We are warmly appreciative to our patient population that participated in the study. The study's goal has always been to demonstrate a lower amputation rate thereby, lowering the devastating mortality rate associated with limb loss," commented Rita Jacob, Vice President of Clinical Affairs.

"This is an encouraging step forward for MMS, millions of patients battling CLI every day and Clinicians treating and caring for these patients," said CEO, Gregory Sullivan. "MMS developed the MicroStent platform in response to patients' needs, and we are excited to move closer to putting MicroStent in the hands of U.S. interventionalists treating CLI."

For more about Micro Medical Solutions, visit www.micromedicalsolutions.net.

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~The new COO to steer innovation in the construction conglomerate's growth journey~

MUMBAI, India, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Infra.Market, India's leading construction material company, has appointed Atul Sanghvi as the Chief Operating Officer for their Tiles, Bath Fittings & Sanitaryware division. Atul comes with an extensive and illustrious career spanning over four decades. A seasoned veteran in the construction material industry, he has demonstrated unwavering dedication, showcasing exceptional expertise with leadership skills.

On this strategic appointment, Aaditya Sharda, Co-Founder, Infra.Market said, "We are thrilled to welcome Atul as the distinguished leader guiding this division within IVAS at Infra.Market. His pivotal role will establish IVAS as a marquee brand in Tiles, Bath Fittings & Sanitaryware and a dominant force within the industry. His transformative vision and expertise instill confidence as we embark on elevating the business to the next level." 

He further added, "In the last one year, Infra.Market has strategically enhanced its talent pool by appointing industry stalwarts, solidifying our position at the forefront of the industry. These visionary leaders align with our commitment to innovation and will play a crucial role in steering us towards sustained success and growth." 

Before joining Infra.Market, he held key roles at ASTRAL Limited and Cera Sanitaryware Ltd., where he served for 22 years, progressing from GM (Sales & Marketing) to Executive Director & CEO. Furthermore, he contributed significantly as the General Manager (Marketing) at Grasim Industries Limited's Cement Division for 11 years.

Powered by Infra.Market, IVAS is the consumer brand dedicated to revolutionizing home construction and renovation. With a commitment to innovation and quality, IVAS aims to redefine the home construction landscape, providing a fresh and compelling approach to enhance living spaces.

About Infra.Market

Founded in 2016 and valued today at $2.5 billion, Infra.Market, India's foremost construction materials company, is reshaping the future of construction, both domestically and internationally. With innovative business planning and smart use of technology, it is the only company in the country to seamlessly supply over 15 different construction material product categories, including Concrete, AAC Blocks, Steel, Pipes & Fittings, MDF, Plywood, Laminates, Tiles, Bath Fittings & Sanitary, Fans, Lights, Kitchen and Electrical Appliances, Modular Kitchens & Wardrobes, Designer Hardware and even Paints.

Equipped with 10,000+ retail touchpoints and 30+ flagship stores, Infra.Market supplies all its products under its own brand name and also from companies that it has invested in including RDC Concrete and Shalimar Paints Ltd. Additionally, it has fortified its market position by launching India's first of its kind multi products and multi categories brand IVAS for home construction and renovation needs. The company takes pride in operating 200+ concrete manufacturing plants and an additional 30+ manufacturing units for other product categories. Fostering transparency and efficiency within the industry, most products supplied by Infra.Market are manufactured in-house.

Its distinctive fusion of conventional solutions with an unconventional, disruptive approach provides a comprehensive range of construction material products consolidated under one roof. This integrated approach efficiently caters to the diverse requirements of both B2B and B2C needs in the construction material industry.

Website: www.infra.market  
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inframarket/  
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infra.market/  
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/infra.market/  
X (Formerly Twitter): https://x.com/InfraMarket_?s=20

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Working in concert with Ethic Ocean, the Association's World Culinary Council will lobby European ministers to protect biodiversity

PARIS, Dec. 5, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The members of Relais & Châteaux's World Culinary Council has voted to immediately remove eel from their own menus and are sending a call to action to the rest of the group's 580 hotels and restaurants to do the same, after its NGO partner Ethic Ocean launched an alert that public authorities must urgently listen to scientists who recommend suspending European eel fishing.

To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/players/uk/9230451-relais-chateaux-chefs-pledge-stop-serving-eel-prevent-extinction/

The European eel (Anguilla anguilla), which is featured in menus all over the world–and revered in certain French, Spanish, Belgian, Dutch and Japanese culinary cultures–is considered critically endangered and features on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Over the last 20 years, European scientists from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) have been warning about all the causes of the alarming decline of this species–but for the last three years, they have recommended suspending fishing.

In this context, the 21 Relais & Châteaux chefs elected to the Association's World Culinary Council gathered in October and voted to approve an immediate ban of European eel from its menus. In partnership with Ethic Ocean, Relais & Châteaux calls on the 27 European Union ministers to hear this chef mobilization and scientific recommendation in order to take the necessary measures this December to safeguard this species.

The effort follows a similar approach taken by the Association, in 2009, to save the bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) stocks in the North-East Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, which were close to collapsing. This action contributed to public mobilization around this species, which encouraged legislators to enact management measures adapted to the situation of the state of the stock.

A Variety of Issues

The situation with eels is very alarming because this species suffers from a numerous challenges including water pollution (particularly rivers), habitat destruction, dams that impede their biological cycle and illegal fishing, which has created a black market, fetching up to €5,000 per kilo. Eels are the only fish that are targeted at their juvenile stage, on top of the fact that it takes them a long time to reach reproductive maturity.

While it is urgent to suspend eel fishing today, it is crucial that the public authorities take the necessary measures to fight against the other causes of the decline of this species.

Mauro Colagreco, Vice President, Chefs of Relais & Châteaux and therefore leader of the World Culinary Council, and chef-owner of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant Mirazur in the South of France, said, "Chefs have a critical role to play: we can stop the demand. We have a chance to protect eels from becoming extinct, and of preserving biodiversity to allow future generations to continue to enjoy them, but only if we act now. As the world's largest network of chefs, Relais & Châteaux hopes to save this species."

Gastronomy: Dependent on Nature

The World Culinary Council–an international committee of 21 chefs from across the Relais & Châteaux network–had gathered over October 8-10, 2023, under the Association's president, Laurent Gardinier.

Laurent Gardinier said: "We have an acute understanding that Relais & Châteaux, and our very art de vivre, is dependent on nature. We must lead in sustainability to protect the ecosystems and biodiversity that our culinary and travel experiences rely on. It is these experiences that move our guests emotionally. And this would not be possible without nature."

A Vehicle for Change

The World Culinary Council wishes to draw attention to the plight of eels.

Relais & Châteaux has had a partnership with Ethic Ocean since 2009 and regularly unites its members around actions in favor of the environment, especially marine biodiversity (for example, World Oceans Day). 

Gilles Boeuf, president of Ethic Ocean, said, "I am happy to see the Relais & Châteaux association support this alert, which aims, above all, to preserve an exceptional species that reflects humanity's relationship with the environment. This cause to save the eel touches on many biodiversity issues. Let's act before it's too late."

To learn more about sustainability at Relais & Châteaux, the Association's annual report with 15 objectives for 2025 and 2030 can be found here:

https://www.relaischateaux.com/us/discover/commitments   

About Relais & Châteaux

A MOVEMENT WITH MEANING  

Relais & Châteaux, established in 1954, is an association of 580 unique hotels and restaurants throughout the world, owned and operated by independent entrepreneurs – most often families – who are passionate about their craft and deeply committed to forging warm, lasting relationships with their guests. Relais & Châteaux members protect and promote the wealth and diversity of the world's culinary and hospitality traditions, to ensure they continue to thrive. They are equally dedicated to preserving local heritage and the environment, as articulated in the association's Vision presented to UNESCO in November 2014.  

www.relaischateaux.com 

About Ethic Ocean 

Ethic Ocean is a non-governmental environmental organization dedicated to the conservation of fisheries and marine ecosystems. Its mission is to create opportunities for change and help implement sustainable practices in the fisheries industry. Ethic Ocean works with all stakeholders to help them source species having stocks that are not overfished or which have been farmed responsibly.

For more information, visit www.ethic-ocean.org. 

PRESS CONTACT

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LIST OF WORLD CULINARY COUNCIL CHEFS:

1.  Mauro Colagreco
Vice President, Chefs, Relais & Châteaux
Relais & Châteaux Mirazur, FRANCE

2.  Peter Tempelhoff
Chef Delegate, Africa & Indian Ocean,
Relais & Châteaux Ellerman House, SOUTH AFRICA

3.  Josep Espuga 
Chef Delegate, Australia, New Zealand & Pacific,
Relais & Châteaux Laura at Pt. Leo Estate, AUSTRALIA

4.  Jef Schuur
Chef Delegate, Benelux, Eastern Europe & Scandinavia,
Relais & Châteaux Bij Jef, THE NETHERLANDS

5.  Frédéric Doucet
Chef Delegate, France: Great East & Rhône-Alps,
Relais & Châteaux Maison Doucet, FRANCE

6.  Cédric Béchade
Chef Delegate, France: Great Southern West,
Relais & Châteaux L'Auberge Basque, FRANCE

7.  Mathieu Guibert
Chef Delegate, France: Great West,
Relais & Châteaux Anne de Bretagne, FRANCE

8.  Julien Dumas
Chef Delegate, France: Paris & Champagne,
Relais & Châteaux Saint James Paris, FRANCE

9.  Jacques Pourcel
Chef Delegate, France: Provence, French Riviera, Corsica & Languedoc,
Relais & Châteaux Hôtel Richer de Belleval, FRANCE

10.  Holger Bodendorf
Chef Delegate, Germany & Austria,
Relais & Châteaux Landhaus Stricker, GERMANY

11.  Vicky Lau
Chef Delegate, Greater China, Indian Subcontinent & Southeast Asia,
Relais & Châteaux Tate Dining Room, HONG KONG

12.  Emanuele Scarello
Chef Delegate, Italy,
Relais & Châteaux Agli Amici dal 1887, ITALY

13.  Shinichiro Takagi
Chef Delegate, Japan & Korea,
Relais & Châteaux Zeniya, JAPAN

14.  Marko Gajski
Chef Delegate, Mediterranean, Middle East & Morocco,
Relais & Châteaux Lešić Dimitri, CROATIA

15.  Jason Bangerter
Chef Delegate, North America: Canada,
Relais & Châteaux Langdon Hall, CANADA

16.  Gabriel Kreuther
Chef Delegate, North America: USA East & Caribbean,
Relais & Châteaux Gabriel Kreuther, NEW YORK, USA

17.  Kyle Connaughton
Chef Delegate, North America: USA West & Mexico,
Relais & Châteaux SingleThread Farm-Restaurant-Inn, CALIFORNIA, USA

18.  Norman Brandt
Chef Delegate, South America & Central America,
Relais & Châteaux Pikaia Lodge, GALÁPAGOS ISLANDS

19.  Pedro Subijana
Chef Delegate, Spain & Portugal,
Relais & Châteaux Akelarre, SPAIN

20.  Stéphane Décotterd
Chef Delegate, Switzerland & Liechtenstein,
Relais & Châteaux Restaurant Stéphane Décotterd, SWITZERLAND

21.  Michael Caines
Chef Delegate, United Kingdom & Ireland,
Relais & Châteaux Lympstone Manor, UNITED KINGDOM

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VICTORIA, Seychelles, Dec. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Bitget, the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has announced the listing of CSIX, the native token of Carbon Browser - one of the fastest WEB3 browsers. The WEB3 browser token CSIX will be listed on Innovation Zone and Web3 Zone to expand Bitget's spot trading spectrum, offering its users access to emerging and community-driven digital assets.

Carbon Browser is an open-source, fast, private and secure Web3 browser developed by Carbon Browser X Labs. Launched in 2016 the product is developed on a customized version of Chromium, offering faster web browsing and better user security protection. Users can utilise their privacy-first features such as protection against ad-tracking, and higher performance with fast page loading, along with access to built-in crypto wallet and more. The browser has been designed to be user-friendly and accessible even to crypto beginners.

Carbon Browser is working on delivering an extensive WEB3 browser experience with integrated wallet, ability to store cryptocurrencies, swap and bridge functionalities. This includes Web3 applications such as crypto exchanges, NFT marketplaces, dApps, as well as Web2 applications such as ChatGPT.

"In the quest of providing easy access to high potential crypto ecosystems, we're focused on listing projects with real-world use cases. In this era of intense computer usage, browsers that give better output and performance will accelerate web3's adoption. With these types of listings, we provide a broader range of use cases for emerging tokens in Bitget's ecosystem," said Gracy Chen, Managing Director at Bitget.

Deposits for CSIX tokens are open now and trading in the spot market of the platform will be available from 11:00 December 4 (UTC). Upon listing, users can trade CSIX with 150+ cryptocurrencies on Bitget's industry-leading, fast, and secure trading platform. To buy trending and newly listed tokens such as CSIX users can use debit/credit cards, bank transfers and other multi-currency payment methods.  For more information on trading CSIX, please visit the official announcement.

About Bitget

Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 20 million users in 100+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more. Bitget inspires individuals to embrace crypto through collaborations with credible partners, including legendary Argentinian footballer Lionel Messi and official eSports events organizer PGL. 

For more information, visit: Website  |  Twitter  |  Telegram  |  LinkedIn  | Discord | Bitget Wallet 

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BEIJING, Dec. 2, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Beijing, the strong, fast-beating heart of Chinese prosperity, has been known as a safe and stable city free from natural calamities. But not the summer of 2023. Throughout the season, the mercury soared, with daily highs consistently hitting over 40°C. Then as the capital had a relative respite from sweltering heat, there came the heavy rain, flooding and displacing thousands of people.

As Beijing recovered, some horrible but similar trend is echoing all around the globe: the deadliest U.S. wildfire in more than a century scorched Lahaina, Hawaii; the devastating floods that destroyed a quarter of the city of Derna, Lybia; extreme heat and worsen drought in Chile and the Horn of Africa; rising sea level for island countries... "Humanity has opened the gates of hell," as the UN Secretary-General António Guterres noted, "we are heading towards a dangerous and unstable world."

Although the alarm bell keeps ringing, we should not lose hope and give up. But rather, it's high time to take actions. China and the United States, as the world's two largest economies, have shown their political will by the milestone Sunnylands Statement. And looking back a bit further, from the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement, binding targets to limit emission and temperature increase have been set through joint efforts.

And China has walked the talk for achieving its goal of carbon peaking and neutrality. From transforming deserts to cleaning up the air, to developing new technology, shifting energy structure, and raising public awareness on a healthier lifestyle. China is doing everything to cultivate a more sustainable cycle of nature, to pay off previous ecological debts, avoid new debts, and strive to save our planet in more creative ways.

If climate change is a global concern, the burden is not equally shared. On the one hand, developed countries are responsible for most of the heat-trapping emissions since the Industrial Revolution. On the other, developing countries have lower emissions, but are bearing the brunt of a hotter climate. Promises from some of the world's biggest economies haven't been panning out, delayed by political deadlock, bureaucratic hurdles and debates over new rules to expedite aid from development banks and private donors.

An injustice burns at the heart of the climate crisis and its flame is scorching hopes and possibilities, as world leaders are warning. "We cannot continue," Mia Mottley, Prime Minister of Barbados called, "to put the interest of a few before the lives of many."

How to make sure the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, with all pulling in the same direction? It needs leadership, vision, and multilateralism. China, along with the rest of the world, is taking the lead to give its best shot, bringing down the price of renewable energy, sharing knowhow for deploying sustainable projects, and transitioning to a low-carbon era. With climate change being a global issue, only in a global approach and by joint efforts can we translate the will into concrete outcomes, and mitigate the climate we changed.

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DUBAI, UAE, Dec. 1, 2023 /PRNewswire/ --

• Masdar, the UAE's clean energy powerhouse, to acquire 49 percent stake in RWE's 3GW Dogger Bank South (DBS) offshore wind projects, as part of £11billion investment in UK's renewables sector
• One of world's largest offshore wind development projects, DBS is set to power up to 3 million British homes, boost the UK economy and create thousands of jobs
• Deal signed during COP28 in UAE shows commitment of Masdar, whose Chairman is also COP28 President, to invest in accelerating net zero in UK and Europe by harnessing region's huge offshore wind potential

Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company PJSC – Masdar, the UAE's clean energy powerhouse, is part of an £11billion investment into the UK's renewable energy sector and is purchasing a 49 percent stake in RWE's 3 gigawatt (GW) Dogger Bank South (DBS) projects - which form one of the world's largest planned offshore wind farms. DBS is capable of powering millions of British homes, reducing emissions and creating up to 3,000 jobs. Closing of the transaction is subject to customary approvals and expected in the first quarter of 2024.

The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the UN's climate change conference COP28, in the UAE. The £11billion joint investment will provide a huge boost to the UK economy and demonstrates the UAE's long-term commitment to supporting net-zero goals in Britain and around the world. It builds on the £10 billion UAE-UK Sovereign Investment Partnership (UK-UAE SIP) to invest in technology, infrastructure and the energy transition.

The 3GW DBS projects bring together global clean energy pioneers Masdar and RWE, a leading renewable energy company headquartered in Germany. The mega-facility is expected to generate enough energy to power 3 million typical UK homes. The projects are predicted to create 2,000 jobs during construction and more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs during their operational phase.

Masdar Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, and the Chief Executive Officer of RWE, Dr Markus Krebber, signed the agreement at COP28 in Expo City Dubai, on December 1.

Located over 100 kilometers off the northeastern coast of England, the DBS offshore wind farms will be split across two sites, the DBS East Array and the DBS West Array. Each site will have the capacity for 1.5GW and span 500 square kilometers. Masdar will acquire a 49% stake in the landmark renewables project while RWE, with a 51% share, will remain in charge of development, construction and operation throughout the life cycle of the projects.

The construction phase could start as early as end 2025 and the first 800MW of electricity is planned to come online in 2029. The DBS projects are expected to be fully commissioned by end of 2031.

HE Dr Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, Chairman of Masdar and COP28 President, said: "As one of the world's largest offshore wind farms, the Dogger Bank South project will make a huge impact on reducing emissions while supplying millions of UK families and businesses with clean, affordable and secure energy.  The world needs to triple renewable energy capacity and double energy efficiency by 2030 if we are to keep the Paris Agreement goal of limiting temperature rises to 1.5 degrees within reach.  At COP28, as we strive to form a unified plan to deliver the urgent course correction the planet needs, projects such as DBS show how nations, companies and communities can join forces to deliver powerful solutions. It also shows the deep bonds between the UK and UAE as exemplified by the UAE-UK Sovereign Investment Partnership, which was expanded to commit £10 billion investments in technology, infrastructure, and the energy transition during President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nayhan's visit to Britain in 2021."

Masdar's Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, said: "Masdar is very proud to be partnering with RWE to develop one of the world's largest offshore wind farms. We are delighted to have come onboard at the early stages of this pioneering project, enabling us to leverage our shared passion and expertise in renewables. The UK is the world's second largest offshore wind market and offers huge growth potential. Masdar has been active in the UK for more than a decade, developing world-class clean energy projects such as Dogger Bank South which demonstrate how innovation and collaboration can lead to a cleaner, greener future. As global leaders strive to form a unified and urgent plan to tackle the climate crisis at COP28, Masdar will continue to expand its wind energy portfolio as we target a total global capacity of 100GW by 2030 in support of key climate goals." 

The deal demonstrates Masdar's long-standing commitment to advancing offshore wind projects in the UK and Europe. A decade ago, Masdar, RWE and its partners launched the 630MW London Array wind farm, the world's largest at the time. Today's investment in the 3GW DBS projects - almost five times as big as London Array - shows Masdar's steadfast expansion into the exciting offshore wind sector. Masdar has also invested in the 30MW Hywind project, which was the world's first floating offshore wind farm, and the 402MW Dudgeon offshore wind farm. In July, Masdar invested in the 476MW Baltic Eagle offshore wind farm set to power 475,000 homes. The company's Global Offshore Wind division is based in London and Masdar is pursuing a strategy of investing and developing projects at the early stages to further strengthen its expertise as an offshore wind developer.

Markus Krebber, CEO RWE AG: "We're delighted to welcome Masdar onboard as our partner and co-investor in the delivery of our Dogger Bank South projects which, at 3GW in size, make up RWE's largest offshore wind development in the UK. With Masdar, we have a strong and renowned partner at our side who shares our ambition to further drive the growth of offshore wind energy. In combination with RWE's many years of experience in the development, construction and operation of offshore wind farms, we are in an excellent position to strongly support the decarbonization of the UK."
Offshore wind energy could generate 380GW by 2030, provided investment is increased and permitting protocols are accelerated, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. With the UK and Europe setting ambitious legally binding net-zero goals, Masdar will continue to harness opportunities to develop the region's burgeoning wind energy sector.

RWE is leading the way to a green energy world. Between 2024 and 2030, RWE will invest 55 billion euros worldwide in offshore and onshore wind, solar energy, batteries, flexible generation, and hydrogen projects. By the end of the decade, the company's green portfolio will grow to more than 65 gigawatts of generation capacity, which will be perfectly complemented by global energy trading. RWE is decarbonizing its business in line with the 1.5-degree reduction pathway and will phase out coal by 2030. RWE will be net zero by 2040.

RWE is already one of the leading companies in the field of renewable energy and offshore wind. Its unparalleled expertise over the last 20 years has resulted in 19 offshore wind farms in operation, with a goal to grow its global offshore wind capacity from 3.3GW today to 10GW in 2030.

About Masdar
Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) is the UAE's clean energy champion and one of the fastest growing companies in the world, advancing the development and deployment of renewable energy and green hydrogen technologies to address global sustainability challenges. Established in 2006, Masdar has developed projects in over 40 countries, helping them to achieve their clean energy objectives and advance sustainable development. Masdar is jointly owned by Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Mubadala Investment Company (Mubadala), and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA), and under this ownership the company is targeting a renewable energy portfolio capacity of at least 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2030 and an annual green hydrogen production capacity of up to 1 million tonnes by the same year.

For more information please visit: http://www.masdar.ae and connect: facebook.com/masdar.ae and twitter.com/masdar

This material is distributed by Daniel J. Edelman, Inc. on behalf of Masdar. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, DC.

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CUTTACK, India, Nov. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- The historic Bali Jatra, one of Asia's largest open-air festivals, was inaugurated on Monday, November 27 with great fervor and enthusiasm. The festival, which celebrates the maritime glory of the people of Odisha, commenced with the gracious presence of esteemed dignitaries and government officials.

Hon'ble Minister of Finance, Government of Odisha, Shri Bikram Keshari Arukha, had the honor of inaugurating the festival at the Bali Jatra ground. He was joined by Chief Speaker Hon'ble Member of Parliament, Shri Bhatruhari Mahtab, and Hon'ble Guest Minister, Shri Ranendra Pratap Swain, Department of Agriculture & Farmers' Empowerment, Government of Odisha. The event witnessed the participation of several other prominent figures, including Hon'ble Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) of Cuttack, Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) Mayor Shri Subhash Chandra Singh, and Deputy Mayor Ms. Damayanti Majhi, among others.

This year's Bali Jatra festival promises to be an extraordinary experience featuring an array of attractions designed to delight visitors. Among the highlights are a tunnel aquarium, a digital exhibition, an eco-friendly fire show, an urban self-help group (SHG) enclosure, a rural pavilion, an art exhibition, and captivating sand art displays.

The digital hanger stands out as a unique offering, providing visitors with an immersive experience that includes anamorphic, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) displays, engaging digital games, a digital pathway, the Corporators' Corner, and an exhibition featuring the present Members of Parliament (MPs) and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) of Cuttack.

A remarkable collection of 420 stalls has been set up by Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS), showcasing a diverse range of handlooms, handicrafts, agri-horticulture value-added products, and authentic spices. These stalls feature the work of talented women producers and artisans from across 30 districts of Odisha and 22 other states including Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Manipur, Tripura, and Chhattisgarh. Mission Shakti Self Help Groups, a leading entity in empowering women and fostering local entrepreneurship, proudly announced the opening of 70 stalls in Cuttack. These stalls offered a diverse range of products, from exquisite handicrafts to mouth-watering food items, all meticulously crafted by its talented members.

This initiative aims to empower women by providing opportunities to strengthen their economic condition. Furthermore, the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) has established the 'Mo Khata' counter, offering recycled waste turned into manure for sale.

Environmental sustainability has been a key focus of the Bali Jatra festival this year. CMC has taken numerous precautionary measures to ensure the festival remains plastic litter-free.

Eighteen dedicated stores have been designated for the collection of plastic waste, and shopkeepers and vendors have been educated on the importance of waste segregation. Dry and wet dustbins have been made available throughout the festival grounds, and individuals who deposit bulk waste such as tin cans, PET beverage containers, and plastic items will receive token money as an incentive. Additionally, eight Food Safety teams have been formed to ensure the availability of high-quality food, and regular defogging and sprinkling of water will be conducted to prevent dust accumulation.

Enhancing the lively atmosphere of the event, a stunning laser light show was inaugurated by CMC Mayor Shri Subhash Chandra Singh. The spectacle was met with tremendous appreciation from the visitors, making it a night to remember, beautifully blending local commerce and entertainment. The combination of diverse stalls and captivating entertainment adds to the vibrancy and charm of the Bali Jatra festival.

Bali Jatra is deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of Odisha and holds significant historical value. The festival takes place on the banks of the majestic river Mahanadi at Gadagadia Ghata and commences on Kartika Purnima, the day when Odia's sail handmade colorful boats in rivers and ponds, symbolizing their ancestors' voyages for trade to distant lands.

In a momentous event held at the Barabati Stadium last year, Bali Jatra etched its name in history. On 15th November 2022, the festival achieved a remarkable feat, making its mark on the global map by setting a Guinness World Record. Thousands of paper boats, symbolizing tradition and festivity, were lovingly crafted by 2,121 students from 22 different schools in Cuttack. Their efforts resulted in an astounding 22,000 paper boats being made within a mere 35 minutes. The joint efforts of the Cuttack District Administration and the Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) made this record-breaking event possible. Their dedication and support have provided a platform for the tradition and culture of Odisha to flourish and be celebrated on an international scale, further solidifying its place as a cultural phenomenon.

Bali Jatra continues to evolve and captivate the hearts of millions and thrives as a significant trading event attracting merchants from all corners of the country. As the festival looks to the future, it promises to bring even greater joy, spectacle, and cherished memories to all who immerse themselves in its vibrant charm.

Make sure not to miss the awe-inspiring Bali Jatra Festival, where tradition, culture, and celebration intertwine to create a truly remarkable experience!

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LONDON, Nov. 30, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Smirnoff, the world's #1 vodka^[1], is today unveiling multimarket activations to boldly champion the power of the collective and reignite social connections around the world in a celebration of the spark that's created when different people, flavours and ingredients come together.

With a recent report indicating that 79% of 18-29 year-olds feel their emotional connections are weaker today than they were in the past^[2], this new initiative aims to tackle feelings of disconnection and isolation around the world. Rolling out in more than 20 countries including the UK, Canada, North America, Mexico, Brazil, Ireland, India and Australia, the initiative will bring local communities together through activities, partnerships and events that lean into local culture and passion points such as music, sport and dance.

These activations will be underpinned by a new global creative, Atomic, which brings this inclusive ethos to life through a playful "life is like a cocktail" metaphor. Embodying the spirit of togetherness, the spot, initially launching in the UK, shows a diverse group of people spontaneously turning into bubbles which mix together before turning back into human form and finally connecting with one another.

In the UK, Smirnoff is reigniting social connection with a focus on lowering social barriers through a new long-term partnership with Sinead Burke's accessibility and inclusion consultancy, Tilting the Lens, and Stonegate, one of the UK's largest hospitality groups, to make socialising more accessible.

Spearheaded by an event curated by legendary nightlife performers, Sink The Pink, the London launch took place last night, Wednesday 29 November, and was hosted by comedian Fats Timbo and actor Layton Williams. The night saw Drag Syndrome, a collective of fabulous Kings and Queens with Down syndrome, take to the stage alongside an array of performers including former Spice Girl Mel C.

The venue was transformed to showcase some of the ways in which barriers found in the built environment of our social venues can be addressed. The inclusion of features such as a low-counter bar, accessible viewing platforms, a quiet room, BSL interpreters and visual interpreting tools meant that Disabled guests were able to enjoy the night as their full, true, and diverse selves.

The ambition is that the brand's partnership with Stonegate and Tilting the Lens will drive positive change for the Disabled community over the coming months by reviewing the settings in which people drink and engage with Smirnoff products.

Lady Mercury and Lady Francesca, members of Drag Syndrome, commented:

"As a collective of fabulous drag artists, we love performing and had a great time on stage alongside all of the other talented acts. Through the new partnerships that Smirnoff announced last night, we hope to see more events like this across the UK with easier access and representation of the Disabled community in the audience."

Sinéad Burke, CEO and Founder of Tilting the Lens, commented: 

"Smirnoff's commitment to implement measurable changes in accessibility, by working with Disabled people, is a much-needed approach to a sector that, for too long, has excluded Disabled people as customers and talent. Viewing accessibility not merely as a measure of compliance, but one of community and creativity means that through the inclusion of Quiet Rooms, British Sign Language performers, inclusive furniture, and trained staff, Disabled people can be who they are, as they are, not merely for one night only."

Beyond the UK, Smirnoff has used the medium of dance to reignite social connections across Brazil through its partnership with popstar IZA to launch a unique track and dance challenge that has got everyone moving together. The initiative has spanned borders with interactive billboards in major global cities encouraging passers-by to get involved. 

In the US, Smirnoff has been using the power of sport to reignite social connections with an NFL partnership that encourages all fans to come together and celebrate their unique traditions and fandom for Game Days. A new national TVC campaign launched with custom spots that demonstrate the cultures of each fanbase alongside a coin toss activation that enabled fans to win delicious game day cocktails, demonstrating how Smirnoff brings people together.

Stephanie Jacoby, Smirnoff Global Brand Director, commented: 

"Despite there being more ways than ever for us to connect with one another, we know that feelings of loneliness and isolation are rising around the world. At Smirnoff, we fundamentally believe that we're better when we're together, which is why these acts feel so important and relevant for today. By reinforcing social connections and doubling down on our longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusivity, we aim to make it as easy as possible for as many people as possible to come together." 

More activities are being planned in markets all around the world over the coming months, including fresh partnerships and initiatives focussed on festival season and Pride - building on Smirnoff's well-established commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community - and ensuring they continue to reignite social connections and bring people together like never before.

NOTES TO EDITOR

For all media inquiries and/or interview requests, please contact smirnoffglobal@smarts.agency
The Atomic creative spot can be viewed here and behind the scenes of production is available here.

About Smirnoff Vodka

Smirnoff is the world's #1 vodka^[3] and Diageo's most popular spirit brand by volume^[4]. Smirnoff is a brand for everyone and has been enjoyed for more than 150 years. To learn more about Smirnoff and any upcoming news, visit www.smirnoff.com. 

About Diageo

Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer categories. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, JεB and Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray, and Guinness.

Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in more than 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands and performance, visit us at www.diageo.com. Visit Diageo's global responsible drinking resource, www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives and ways to share best practice.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

^[1] Spirits Business, Brand Champions Report 2023
^[2] McCann Worldgroup Truth Central Truth About Youth 2023
^[3] Spirits Business, Brand Champions Report 2023
^[4] Diageo Performance Results for fiscal year 2023

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