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By Nitya Chakraborty Incumbent President of Brazil Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, better known globally as Lula made a dramatic comeback in October 25 run off Presidential elections by comfortably defeating the far right candidate Flavio Bolsonaro who was the frontrunner after the first round of elections on October 4. After 100 per cent counting […]

The article Lula’s Historic Win In Brazilian Election Is A Major Boost To Latin American Left appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Nine exchange-traded funds widely associated with the country’s so-called national team recorded combined net inflows of 128.7 billion yuan ($19 billion) during the week ending 23 October. The total was the highest since nearly 140 billion yuan entered the same closely watched group during the tariff-driven market turmoil 18 months earlier.

The surge followed a punishing decline in mainland shares that pushed the CSI 300 benchmark into bear-market territory, conventionally defined as a fall of at least 20% from a previous peak. Investors have been monitoring large purchases of index-tracking funds for indications that state-backed institutions are seeking to contain further losses.

The figures measure money entering funds favoured by official investors rather than confirmed purchases by government-controlled entities. No public announcement has established how much of last week’s inflows came directly from the state, making the scale of official intervention difficult to determine precisely.

Central Huijin Investment, a unit of sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corporation, is among the principal institutions associated with market stabilisation. Its investment activity has become an important signal for traders attempting to assess Beijing’s willingness to support share prices during periods of intense volatility.

The latest inflows were concentrated in exchange-traded products offering exposure to broad mainland equity benchmarks. Such vehicles enable institutions to acquire diversified holdings quickly, directing demand towards major listed companies without having to purchase individual shares separately.

Thursday’s trading illustrated the pressure facing authorities. The CSI 300 fell into a bear market as persistent selling overwhelmed earlier signs of institutional support. Funds favoured by state investors attracted approximately 46 billion yuan that day, highlighting the contrast between substantial new subscriptions and continuing weakness in underlying shares.

Friday brought a partial reversal. The CSI 300 finished 1.7% higher at 4,105.33 after falling by as much as 2% during the session. The recovery coincided with unusually active trading in several large index funds, although trading patterns alone cannot identify the buyers responsible.

One CSI 300 exchange-traded fund managed by E Fund Management registered turnover of about 19.5 billion yuan on Friday, its busiest session since October 2024. Heavy turnover can reflect purchases and sales by multiple participants and does not, by itself, establish the size of net state investment.

The rebound provided relief after a prolonged retreat that had already tested confidence in official market-support measures. The benchmark had endured a record sequence of weekly declines, leaving investors focused on whether additional institutional demand could interrupt the selling pressure.

Analysts at China Securities, including Yao Ziwei, had previously identified large subscriptions to leading broad-market funds and heavier activity towards the close of trading as characteristics consistent with institutional buying against the prevailing market trend. Their observations did not amount to confirmation of individual investors’ identities.

The scale of potential support has also attracted attention. Analysts including Rebecca Sin estimated that Central Huijin raised approximately $231 billion through exchange-traded fund sales during the first half of 2026 and redeployed about $43 billion after purchases resumed in July. Their calculations suggested considerable remaining capacity, although available resources do not guarantee further buying.

Those estimates underscore the distinction between market intervention and a sustained recovery. Purchases can provide immediate demand for shares, but their effect depends partly on whether other investors become willing to hold equities without continued institutional assistance.

The comparison with April 2025 is significant because that episode followed sweeping American tariff announcements that triggered sharp market losses. Authorities subsequently introduced measures intended to stabilise trading and confidence. Last week’s inflows approached the scale seen during that earlier emergency, despite the different circumstances surrounding the latest decline.

The nine-fund basket represents only part of China’s exchange-traded fund market. Subscription figures can vary depending on the funds selected, the valuation method and the period measured, while changes in units outstanding cannot establish the identity of the ultimate purchaser.

Mainland exchange-traded funds are listed securities whose prices fluctuate throughout the trading day. Their creation and redemption mechanisms allow authorised institutions to adjust the number of units outstanding as investor demand changes. These mechanisms can produce substantial changes in reported fund flows even when trading activity involves different categories of institutional and individual market participants.

With products sold in more than 80 countries, Thailand’s leading Sriracha producer highlights its global distribution strength, product innovation and ambition to grow Thai Sriracha on the world stage.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 October 2026 – Exotic Food Public Company Limited (XO), a leading Thai manufacturer and exporter of premium sauces, condiments and culinary products, is showcasing the strength of Thai brands on the global stage at SIAL Paris 2026, one of the world’s leading international food industry exhibitions, held from 17–21 October in Paris, France. The company’s participation reflects its ambition to take authentic Thai flavours beyond traditional export markets and build globally competitive brands through product innovation, international market expertise and strong distribution partnerships.

With products distributed in more than 80 countries and available at over 30,000 points of sale worldwide, Exotic Food has established a strong international presence through its flagship brands, Exotic Food and Flying Goose. Europe remains one of the company’s key markets, where its portfolio of Thai sauces, condiments and culinary products continues to reach consumers through international retail and distribution networks.

Bringing together more than 8,000 exhibitors from 130 countries and showcasing over 400,000 products, SIAL Paris 2026 serves as a major meeting point for the global food industry. For Exotic Food, the exhibition provides an important platform to connect with international buyers and distributors, strengthen existing business relationships and explore new market opportunities, while demonstrating how Thai food brands can compete in an increasingly diverse global marketplace.

At SIAL Paris 2026, Exotic Food is presenting its portfolio of authentic Thai flavours alongside innovations developed for international consumers. A key highlight is the Flying Goose Sriracha range, featuring more than 50 flavours, together with creative product collaborations such as Sriracha-flavoured potato chips and peanuts. The showcase reflects the company’s ability to combine Thai culinary heritage with an understanding of evolving global food trends, bringing familiar Thai flavours into new product categories and consumer experiences.

The company’s distinctive bright-red exhibition booth draws inspiration from Thai culture and the signature identity of Flying Goose Sriracha, creating a strong visual expression of its Thai roots and international brand positioning.

Mr. Jittiporn Jantarach, Chief Executive Officer of Exotic Food Public Company Limited, said, “Taking Thai flavours to the world is only the beginning. Building a successful global brand requires a deep understanding of international consumers, the ability to adapt to different markets, and a long-term commitment to quality and innovation.

“At Exotic Food, we combine our Thai culinary heritage with global market expertise to create products that resonate with consumers across cultures. Our presence at SIAL Paris reflects not only how far Thai brands have come, but also their potential to compete and grow on the world stage.”

Beyond international expansion and product innovation, Exotic Food continues to strengthen its sustainability commitments as part of its long-term business strategy. The company has achieved ISO 14068-1:2023 certification, supporting its roadmap towards Carbon Neutrality by 2040 and Net Zero Emissions by 2050. The certification reinforces its commitment to internationally recognised environmental standards and sustainable operations, particularly as sustainability becomes an increasingly important consideration for global business partners and international trade.

Through its participation in SIAL Paris 2026, Exotic Food continues to demonstrate how Thai companies can move beyond traditional food exports to establish distinctive, internationally competitive brands. By combining authentic Thai flavours with global market understanding, continuous innovation and responsible business practices, the company is reinforcing the growing potential of Thai brands in the international food industry.

Hashtag: #ExoticFood

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By K Raveendran Escalating tensions between the United States and Iran are threatening to push global oil markets into another period of turbulence, but India has found an unexpected measure of protection in President Donald Trump’s decision to ease sanctions on Russian energy. The policy reversal, driven partly by Washington’s own need for Russian diesel, […]

The article India Gains Crucial Oil Lifeline Amid Iran Tensions And Crude Oil Spikes appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

By T N Ashok NEW YORK: The latest diplomatic signals from Washington and New Delhi suggest that a prolonged India–US trade confrontation may finally be approaching a settlement. US President Donald Trump says a deal is close. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, after meeting External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in Mumbai on October 20, has […]

The article India-U.S. Trade Deal Draft Is Ready, But Still There Are Few Gaps appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Exploring Emerging Opportunities in AI, Smart Supply Chain Management, ESG and Sustainability

Free Admission Open for Public Registration Now

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 October 2026 – Amid the reshaping of global supply chains, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, and the rise of emerging industries such as the low-altitude economy, the logistics industry is entering a new wave of smart transformation. Organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and funded by the Logistics Promotion Funding Scheme (LPFS) under the Maritime and Aviation Training Fund of the Transport and Logistics Bureau of the HKSAR Government, LogTech Expo 2026 will take place on 29 October (Thursday) at the InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong. Under the theme “Smart-Driven Transformation, Leading the Future of Logistics”, the Expo will bring together more than 50 logistics, supply chain and innovation and technology enterprises, alongside logistics industry leaders and experts, to share insights through a series of forums and discussions. The event will provide a one-stop platform for the industry to stay abreast of the latest logistics technology trends and developments. Admission is free, and online registration is now open.

As one of the major annual events in Hong Kong’s logistics technology sector, the Expo will feature the latest applications and achievements in smart logistics. From AI and big data analytics, smart warehousing and robotics, and automated supply chain management systems, to cross-border e-commerce logistics, green logistics, new energy transportation and drone delivery solutions, visitors will be able to experience first-hand how technology is reshaping logistics operations and helping enterprises enhance efficiency and competitiveness.

Renowned Enterprises and Organisations Showcase the Entire Smart Logistics Value Chain
This year’s Expo will bring together renowned brands and organisations from the logistics and technology sectors, including SF Supply Chain, Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, Hongkong Post, Auto-ID Technology, HSM Industrial Solution, Tradelink, GS1 Hong Kong, ShipAny and Axis Communications, showcasing innovative solutions that support digital transformation and intelligent operations across the logistics industry. Visitors can explore the following technology zones:

• AI and Data Applications Zone: Leveraging AI, big data and automation technologies to enhance logistics planning and operational efficiency;
• Smart Warehousing and Robotics Zone: Showcasing intelligent sorting systems, automated warehousing and robotics solutions;
• Smart Supply Chain and Digital Platform Zone: Featuring WMS, TMS and digital supply chain management systems;
• Cross-border E-commerce and Delivery Zone: Showcasing innovative models in global fulfilment and smart delivery;
• ESG and Green Logistics Zone: Focusing on new energy transportation, carbon reduction technologies and sustainable logistics development;
• Low-Altitude Economy Zone: Exploring emerging applications such as drones and last-mile delivery solutions.

Visitors will not only be able to learn how innovative technologies are applied in real-world business scenarios but also engage directly with solution providers and industry experts to explore opportunities for collaboration and transformation.

10 Thematic Seminars and Sharing Sessions Focus on the Future of Logistics
In addition to the exhibition, the Expo will feature 10 thematic forums and technical sharing sessions covering key industry topics including AI, supply chain digitalisation, cross-border e-commerce, the low-altitude economy and logistics innovation.

The opening seminar, “Smart Tools for Logistics: Practical AI Applications and Insights”, will be moderated by Ryan IP, Vice President and Executive Director of the Public Policy Institute of Our Hong Kong Foundation, and feature a panel comprising Professor Kee-hung LAI, Head of the Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies and Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Sunny HO, MH, JP, FCILT, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Shippers’ Council; Keno Tai-yip CHEUNG, President of The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Hong Kong; and Suki CHEUNG Shuk-ming, Chief Executive Officer of MG Ship. Together, they will discuss how AI can enhance logistics operational efficiency, drive supply chain digitalisation, and support Hong Kong’s development as a smart logistics hub.

In addition, experts from organisations including Profit Sky International Industrial, ShipAny, Tradelink, Axis Communications and GS1 Hong Kong will share real-life business cases, enabling visitors to gain deeper insights into digital twins, cross-border e-commerce, supply chain visibility and AI applications in logistics.

Promoting Cross-sector Collaboration to Shape the Future of Logistics
The Expo is supported by more than 20 industry organisations, including the Airport Authority Hong Kong, Cathay Cargo, Hong Kong Shippers’ Council, Hong Kong Logistics Association, Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport in Hong Kong, Cyberport and the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre. It serves as an effective platform for industry exchange and business matching, fostering innovative collaboration and industry upgrading.

Admission is free. Logistics practitioners, supply chain professionals, manufacturers, e-commerce businesses, technology solution providers, academics, and members of the public interested in the development of logistics technology are welcome to attend.

Event Details
LogTech Expo 2026
Date: 29 October 2026 (Thursday)
Time: 10:00 am – 5:30 pm
Venue: InnoCentre, 72 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong
Admission Fee: Free (Advance registration required)
Register Now: https://campaigns.hkpc.org/zh-hk/tc-rsvp-logtech_expo_2026
Exhibitor List: View Exhibitor List

Hashtag: #HKPC

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About the Hong Kong Productivity Council

The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.

HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.

To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.

HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.

For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.

By Bhasha Singh New defence partnerships are emerging across the world. Their purpose is not merely to strengthen military capabilities but also to reduce dependence on other countries for weapons production and technology. On October 21, Türkiye, Pakistan, Indonesia and Qatar signed the Badr Memorandum of Understanding in Doha, the capital of Qatar. Under this […]

The article From Mecca To Badr: New Defence Alliances And The Questions Facing India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

NAF 2026 is designed as an action-oriented platform connecting global investors, industry leaders, and policymakers to advance investment opportunities across strategic sectors. Moving beyond conventional economic dialogue, the forum seeks to translate investment interest into concrete commitments, financing structures, and measurable outcomes.

Pahala Nugraha Mansury, Managing Director of Global Relations & Communications at Danantara Indonesia, emphasized Asia’s growing potential to attract long-term global capital amid shifting economic and geopolitical dynamics.

“Our focus is on encouraging long-term capital to recognize the many investment opportunities across Asian countries, because this is precisely where the center of gravity for growth lies. This will enable growth at scale, anchored by ASEAN and driven by Indonesia as the largest country in ASEAN,” said Pahala.

The Asia-Pacific region currently accounts for nearly 60% of global economic growth. However, long-term international capital allocation to the region remains below its potential, presenting significant opportunities for greater investment collaboration.

NAF 2026 expects to convene more than 1,000 global leaders, feature over 100 speakers, and host more than 40 sessions involving sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, development finance institutions, multinational corporations, and government representatives. Notable speakers include President Prabowo Subianto of Indonesia; Masayoshi Son, Chairman and CEO of SoftBank Group; Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan; Kathleen Quirk, Chief Executive Officer of Freeport-McMoRan; Matteo Renzi, former Prime Minister of Italy; and Israfil Mammadov, Chief Executive Officer of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

The forum will follow a two-day structure: Discovery & Diligence on 3 December, focusing on investment opportunities, feasibility, and transaction structures; and Action & Execution on 4 December, advancing capital commitments, strategic partnerships, and implementation milestones.

Eight priority sectors will anchor the discussions: strategic resources and downstreaming; energy and power; advanced mobility and manufacturing; digital infrastructure and AI; food and agribusiness; trade and connectivity; tourism and creative economy; and education and human capital.

As a founding partner, Danantara Indonesia will participate as a co-investor alongside global partners, supporting investment in strategic sectors and reinforcing Indonesia’s role in regional economic transformation.

Through its transaction-focused approach, NAF 2026 aims to deliver preliminary investment agreements, bankable financing structures, and clearly defined implementation milestones. Investment commitments and progress will be tracked across subsequent editions to promote accountability, continuity, and tangible economic impact for Indonesia and the wider region.

Hashtag: #NewAsiaForum2026

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Yesterday (October 21), the FMM issued the 2026 APEC Finance Ministers’ Joint Statement, reaffirming the commitment to building an open, dynamic, resilient, and peaceful Asia-Pacific community by 2040 for the prosperity of all our people and future generations.

Minister of Finance and chair of the 2026 FMM, Lan Fo’an, said that all parties should firmly implement the consensus reached at the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting, uphold multilateralism, and deepen practical co-operation in fiscal and financial affairs, with a view to contributing to regional economic and financial stability and long-term sustainable growth.

Earlier, John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government, welcomed participants to the FMM.

“This is a historic occasion for Hong Kong. The APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting – part of APEC China 2026 – is taking place in our city for the very first time. We are honoured to support this significant international event, which brings together the member economies of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation, representing some three billion people and accounting for over 60 per cent of global GDP,” Mr Lee said.

“Under the unique ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage. We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, our country, and have a legal and regulatory regime similar to most of the world’s top financial hubs.”

Speaking during the discussion sessions, Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR, said that amid geopolitical tensions and uncertainties over trade policies, Asia-Pacific economies should strengthen co-operation to maintain the smooth flow of trade and investment, while guarding against financial risks and nurturing long-term growth drivers.

He said that Hong Kong would leverage its unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, and make full use of its diverse financing channels and professional services as an international financial centre to serve as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.

“Regionally, we need open channels for trade and investment, not new barriers. Connected markets allow capital to reach productive uses and technologies be adopted across borders,” Mr Chan said during a plenary session on Global and Regional Economic and Financial Outlook (October 20).

“Our collective task is to safeguard stability while strengthening the foundations for lasting prosperity. Hong Kong, China stands ready to work with fellow economies to seize opportunities, manage risks and support more resilient, sustainable and inclusive growth across the Asia Pacific.”

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC) held two thematic seminars (October 20) on “Fostering a digitalised, inclusive and sustainable supply chain ecosystem through finance” and “Mobilising capital for nature: scaling finance and regional cooperation across APEC” respectively.

In his welcoming remarks at the seminars, Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, said: “In an era of profound economic transformation and evolving global challenges, prosperity will not be secured by any economy acting alone. It will be built through partnership, innovation and resilience. I am therefore delighted that this seminar brings together regulators, business leaders and experts from across the Asia-Pacific region for meaningful exchanges on how we can unlock new opportunities, strengthen financial resilience, and drive sustainable growth for all.”

Following the conclusion of the FMM, Mr Lee and other officials met Mr Lan at Government House to exchange views on economic and financial development of the Chinese Mainland and Hong Kong. Mr Lee expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the country for its trust in and support for Hong Kong, as well as its strong affirmation of Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre.

During the FMM, a diverse range of tours and visits were arranged for members of delegations from participating economies and international organisations to enjoy the city’s cultural heritage and unique charm as an international metropolis.

The itineraries included visits to the Peak, Hong Kong Museum of Art, Hong Kong Palace Museum, Xiqu Centre, Chinese Culinary Institute and Ocean Park as well as a boat tour to enjoy the renowned views of Victoria Harbour.

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #APEC #FMM

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The opening on Wednesday marks a further step in the emirate’s efforts to develop trade and investment links with southern China. The office is intended to connect companies in Guangdong with opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah and provide a continuing point of contact for prospective business partners.

Sheikh Saud, a member of the UAE Supreme Council, inaugurated the facility during a working visit to China scheduled to continue until Friday. The programme includes discussions with provincial officials, meetings with corporate executives and engagements in Guangdong and Fujian.

The consultancy follows a cooperation agreement signed by Ras Al Khaimah and Guangdong in November 2024. That agreement identified the digital economy, technological innovation, advanced manufacturing, smart cities, culture and tourism as areas for collaboration.

The new Guangzhou presence gives the emirate a local platform through which to pursue those priorities beyond individual official visits and business delegations. Its establishment also provides Chinese enterprises with a designated channel for exploring commercial relationships with Ras Al Khaimah.

The opening comes as the emirate seeks to translate institutional agreements into direct contacts between companies and public agencies. Guangdong is a particularly significant partner because of its concentration of manufacturing, technology and export-oriented businesses.

The Ruler’s China itinerary began with his arrival in Shenzhen on October 17, accompanied by senior officials and representatives of Ras Al Khaimah government entities. UAE Ambassador to China Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi and UAE Consul General in Guangzhou Maryam Al Shamsi were among those who welcomed him.

A principal engagement of the visit was the Ras Al Khaimah–China Business Summit in Shenzhen, where the emirate presented investment opportunities to Chinese business leaders. The meetings form part of a broader effort to identify potential partners and encourage companies to examine the emirate as a base for operations and investment.

Officials have indicated that more than 400 Chinese companies operate in Ras Al Khaimah. The existing corporate presence offers a foundation for further commercial engagement, although the opening of the consultancy does not itself establish new investment commitments or completed transactions.

The emirate’s economic outreach also involves Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, which has previously organised business missions to China and pursued cooperation with Chinese enterprises. The economic zone has promoted opportunities for manufacturing and industrial projects, alongside other commercial activities.

During the current visit, Sheikh Saud has also met representatives of Chinese technology businesses. A visit to Guangzhou included an engagement with ARIDGE, a company developing advanced air mobility vehicles, as cooperation on emerging transport technology attracted attention from both sides.

The company presented an aircraft intended for testing within the UAE’s advanced air mobility regulatory environment. Its founder, Zhao Deli, described plans to begin with demonstrations and certification before pursuing potential commercial applications, including emergency services and tourism. Those plans remain subject to testing and regulatory requirements.

The wider commercial initiative is being pursued alongside government-to-government engagement. The distinction matters because cooperation agreements can establish areas of common interest without specifying individual projects, financing or delivery schedules. The consultancy is therefore expected to act as a practical point of contact rather than a substitute for negotiations between investors, regulators and commercial partners. Details of its staffing, operating budget and arrangements for assisting individual businesses have not been publicly specified.

The Guangzhou opening builds on contacts developed during Sheikh Saud’s two visits to China in 2024. The November agreement with Guangdong has subsequently been followed by cooperation involving institutions in education, transport, research, culture and archaeology.

Entities identified in that cooperation include the Ras Al Khaimah Transport Authority, the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, RAK Medical and Health Sciences University and the emirate’s Department of Antiquities and Museums.

Guangdong’s industrial base encompasses electronics, vehicles, pharmaceuticals and other manufacturing activities. Its size and commercial networks make it an important destination for international investment promotion, although specific outcomes from the new consultancy will depend on subsequent business engagement.

Sheikh Saud is also scheduled to visit Fuzhou, the capital of Fujian province, where an agreement establishing friendly relations between Ras Al Khaimah and Fujian is planned. The visit is due to conclude on October 23.