News related to
U S

Hang Lung’s Vision for Academic Excellence Drives Hong Kong’s Global Competitiveness

HONG KONG SAR & SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 December 2025 – The winners of the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards (“HLMA”), co-organized by Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (“HKUST”), have been announced. Siu Man Li from the Hong Kong Chinese Women’s Club College received the Gold Award for his research report titled “Markov Chains Associated with Ultraspherical Polynomials: An Analysis of Weak Convergence and First Passage Time Functionals”.

Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (left) and Professor Richard Schoen, Chair of the 2025 HLMA Scientific Committee (right) present the Gold Award to winner Siu Man Li from Hong Kong Chinese Women’s Club College at the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards.
Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (left) and Professor Richard Schoen, Chair of the 2025 HLMA Scientific Committee (right) present the Gold Award to winner Siu Man Li from Hong Kong Chinese Women’s Club College at the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards.

The Silver Award and the Bronze Award were won by Augus Kui Lam Huang, Inna Belle Lee, Chun Lam Lo, Lok Hei Qiao, and Cheuk Lok Wong from St. Paul’s Co-educational College, and Edison Sze Ho Fu, Yun Tung Ko, Hoi Chun Puk, and Wai Kwan Yeung from Queen’s College, respectively. All winning teams demonstrated exceptional problem-solving abilities, creativity, and academic rigor evident in their work on challenging mathematical topics.

The awards were presented at tonight’s ceremony, celebrating the remarkable achievements of the student finalists and reaffirming HLMA’s sustained contribution to advancing STEM education in Hong Kong. In her opening remarks, Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, JP, Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, said, “The Hang Lung Mathematics Awards not only honours mathematical endeavours, but also reflects its enduring commitment to inspiring a continued passion for mathematics among our students and nurturing Hong Kong’s young talents. This aligns well with the promotion of self-directed learning, problem solving and creativity in Hong Kong’s school education. I hope all of us in the society can join hands in the promotion of digital education and mathematical modelling for the benefit of our students.”

Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties, also addressed the audience, stating, “As we celebrate the winners of the Hang Lung Mathematics Awards, we are reminded that talent development is a long-term investment. HLMA embodies our commitment to nurturing the next generation of thinkers and leaders who will navigate an increasingly complex world. We are heartened by the strong support from students, schools, and the academic community, which reinforces our shared mission to advance mathematics education and push the boundaries of excellence. Together, we are empowering young minds to pursue their passion and unlock their potential in mathematics, science, and technology.”

Professor Nancy Ip, President of HKUST, said, “HKUST is pleased to continue our partnership with Hang Lung in this biennial competition. Hang Lung Mathematics Awards is more than an academic contest; it is a platform that challenges students to push the boundaries of their knowledge and apply rigorous methodology to original research. By cultivating a community of aspiring mathematicians and providing them with access to world-class training, we are advancing our shared vision of transforming Hong Kong into a global hub for innovation and technology.”

A group photo of the winning teams of the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards with Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Mr. Ronnie C. Chan, Honorary Chair of Hang Lung Properties; Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties; Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties; Kenneth Chiu, Chief Financial Officer of Hang Lung Properties; Professor Nancy Ip, President of HKUST; Professor Richard Schoen, Chair of the HLMA Scientific Committee; Professor Ngaiming Mok, Chair of the HLMA Steering Committee; and members of the Scientific Committee, Steering Committee, Executive Committee, and Screening Panel.
A group photo of the winning teams of the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards with Dr. Choi Yuk-lin, Secretary for Education of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Mr. Ronnie C. Chan, Honorary Chair of Hang Lung Properties; Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties; Mr. Weber Lo, Chief Executive Officer of Hang Lung Properties; Kenneth Chiu, Chief Financial Officer of Hang Lung Properties; Professor Nancy Ip, President of HKUST; Professor Richard Schoen, Chair of the HLMA Scientific Committee; Professor Ngaiming Mok, Chair of the HLMA Steering Committee; and members of the Scientific Committee, Steering Committee, Executive Committee, and Screening Panel.

During the ceremony, a lively Panel Discussion was held on the theme of “Ubiquity of Mathematics: the Language of Discovery.” The discussion featured Professor Richard Schoen, 2017 Wolf Prize Laureate in Mathematics and Chair of the 2025 HLMA Scientific Committee, and Professor Ngaiming Mok, 2022 Future Science Prize Laureate, Chair of the HLMA Steering Committee and member of the Scientific Committee. Moderated by Ms. Jennifer Zhu Scott, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Power Dynamics, the distinguished speakers shared their insights on the evolving landscape of mathematics education and the essential skills required for the next generation to thrive in a technology-driven era.

The 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards attracted the participation of close to 100 teams from over 50 secondary schools in Hong Kong. Under the guidance of a supervising teacher, each team decided on a mathematics topic, designed and conducted research, and compiled their findings into a research report. This impactful initiative is pivotal in the cultivation of future mathematical and scientific minds.

Appendix

Founded in 2004, the Hang Lung Mathematics Awards is a biennial competition that inspires secondary school students to formulate their own research journey and realize their creative potential in mathematics. Throughout its illustrious history, 2,800 students from over 200 schools have participated, submitting more than 500 research reports. Hang Lung donates HK$2.5 million for each competition—HK$1 million is allocated as prize money with the remainder supporting HKUST in providing vital initiatives including academic consultation, assessment, administration, and educational outreach activities. HKUST also offers scholarships for teachers nominated by the winning schools to further their studies through the Master of Science Program in Mathematics for Educators.

Over the past two decades, the HLMA has made a profound impact on cultivating young mathematical talent, with many past winners having gone on to graduate from top universities worldwide and now contributing significantly to society through work in academia and professional fields. HLMA plays an important role in recognizing and fostering a lasting love of mathematical inquiry that extends far beyond secondary school.

This year, the Hang Lung Mathematics Awards drew participation from nearly 100 teams across over 50 secondary schools in Hong Kong. A total of 15 teams were shortlisted for the Oral Defense stage, where a Scientific Committee comprising internationally renowned scholars and educators evaluated the research reports through a rigorous, multi-step review process. The teams were invited to present and defend their findings before the Scientific Committee in a formal setting, an experience that closely resembles the oral defense process required for a postgraduate degree.

For a detailed list of winners of the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards, please refer to the attachment.

Attachment

List of Winners of the 2025 Hang Lung Mathematics Awards

Award
Research Title
Team Member(s)
Teacher
School Name
Gold
Markov Chains Associated with Ultraspherical Polynomials:
an Analysis of Weak Convergence and First Passage Time Functionals
Siu Man Li
Mr. On Ping Chung
Hong Kong Chinese Women’s Club College
Silver
Incentric Subdivisions of Triangles and Iterated Function Systems
Augus Kui Lam Huang
Inna Belle Lee
Chun Lam Lo
Lok Hei Qiao
Cheuk Lok Wong
Mr. Pak Leong Cheung
St. Paul’s Co-educational College
Bronze
On the Generalisations of the No-Three-in-Line Problem
Edison Sze Ho Fu
Yun Tung Ko
Hoi Chun Puk
Wai Kwan Yeung
Mr. Hang Chun Chan
Queen’s College
Honorable Mentions (listed by school name in alphabetical order)
Research Title
Team Member(s)
Teacher
School Name
On the Number of Multiplicative Type En Friezes
Lok Him Chan
David Kai Hei Gu
Sui Ping Tang
Ho Wong
Mr. Yuk Lun Fong
HKUGA College
What Can You Split and Draw?
Triton Cheuk Lok Kho
Eron Ching Long Kwok
Man Hei Tung
Mr. Yuk Lun Fong
HKUGA College
The Mathematics of Riffle Shuffling from Single to Multi-Deck Card Games
Daniel Haifeng Wang
Justin Haisong Wang
Ms. Alexandra Streeter
King George V School
On the Images of Rational Numbers under a Certain Type of Fractal Interpolation Function
Tsz Hei Chiu
Alex Sheung Fai Lam
Hin Chun Lee
Jamie Chun Hin Ng
Ka Lam Tang
Dr. Wai Shan Cheung
St. Joseph’s College
Producing Annoying Sounds with Chalk by Varying Angle of Contact
Joshua Cheung
Haoyang Dong
Jizheng Li
Ming Ze Li
Maximilian Ng
Mr. David Bian
Victoria Shanghai Academy

Hashtag: #HangLungProperties

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Hang Lung Properties

Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Hang Lung Properties develops and manages a diversified portfolio of world-class properties in Hong Kong and the nine Mainland cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan and Hangzhou. With its luxury positioning under the “66” brand, the company’s Mainland portfolio has established its leading position as the “Pulse of the City”. Hang Lung Properties is also recognized for leading the way in enhancing sustainability initiatives in the real estate industry, all the while pursuing sustainable growth by connecting customers and communities.

At Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.

For more information, please visit .

About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) () is a world-class university known for its innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 6th in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, and 19th globally and 1st in Hong Kong in the Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings 2025. Thirteen HKUST subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” coming in 17th worldwide and first in Hong Kong. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of the Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of July 2025, HKUST members have founded over 1,900 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 17 exits (IPO or M&A).

WILLEMSTAD, CURAÇAO – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 December 2025 – Four weeks before Christmas, 1win has launched an Advent Calendar in partnership with its global brand ambassador Jon Jones, the legendary MMA champion. The “1wish Season with Santa Jones” is a 21-day charity challenge hosted by Jon Jones on Instagram and powered by 1win.

Attachment-414567-786377953

Effective December 1, Santa Jon Jones opens a new “gift window” daily and chooses people to fulfill their wishes. Participants can ask for anything that can brighten their lives – heartfelt gifts, something they have always dreamed about, or something important for their families. This is a perfect moment to ask Santa Jones a Christmas wish.

To join the giveaway, users need to undergo five steps:

  1. Visit the official ‘1wish Season‘ landing page in Jon Jones’s Instagram bio.
  2. Submit the wish. Big or small, practical or emotional — any honest wish is welcome.
  3. Leave contact details, so 1win team can contact them if Santa Jones chooses their wishes.
  4. Follow @1win and @jonnybones on Instagram.
  5. Repost the announcement Reel by @1win and @jonnybones to their Stories.

From December 1 to December 21, Jon Jones and 1win will be choosing five winners per day. Selected participants will be tagged in Jon’s Instagram Stories. Within 1–3 days, the 1win team will contact winners to arrange the delivery of the wishes.

“From December 1st to the 21st, you can send us your wish – something real, something you’ve wanted for a long time but never allowed yourself to get. Every day I’ll be choosing five people myself – five stories that feel honest, meaningful, and important,” said Jon Jones, as he announced the 1wish Season.

1win and Jon Jones invite fans from around the world to join the 1wish Season. Make a wish, join the Advent Calendar, and let this December bring you something truly special.

Hashtag: #1win

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About 1win

Founded in 2016, 1win is a major player in the global gaming industry. Operating across Asia, Latin America, and Africa, 1win offers a wide range of services adapted to regional audiences. In 2024, 1win partnered with actor Johnny Sins as its brand ambassador. In 2025, Mexican professional boxer Saúl (Canelo) Álvarez and MMA legend Jon Jones joined 1win as its global ambassadors.

Eastern European Union governments are coordinating a collective push to unlock larger and faster streams of funding to strengthen military defences against Russia, as leaders from eight frontline states meet in Helsinki to align priorities and influence the bloc’s budget and lending rules. Discussions among leaders from Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia and Romania focus on closing gaps in air defence, long-range fires, ammunition […]

Ringing in the New Year, the extended collection promotes moderation and conscious drinking throughout the festive season and beyond

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 December 2025 – Carlsberg Hong Kong is championing moderation and mindful drinking with the launch of its extended No & Low-Alcohol Range and Beyond Beer product collection to ring in the New Year. Available from January 2026, the perfectly timed launch coincides with the season of gathering and the upcoming Dry January. The collection offers a refreshing, flavourful alternative for those looking to drink more consciously without compromising on taste or experience.

Carlsberg Hong Kong rings in the New Year with extended collection No & Low-Alcohol Range and Beyond Beer collection for conscious celebrations beyond the festive season
Carlsberg Hong Kong rings in the New Year with extended collection No & Low-Alcohol Range and Beyond Beer collection for conscious celebrations beyond the festive season

At the heart of this collection is Carlsberg 0.0, the flagship product that sets the standard for mindful drinking. With No Alcohol, No Sugar, and Low Calories, Carlsberg 0.0 delivers all the taste without the compromise – perfect for those who want to celebrate responsibly while maintaining a balanced lifestyle. True to its tagline, “Alcohol Free; Not Flavor Free,” Carlsberg No & Low-Alcohol Range together with its Beyond Beer collection proves that great beer experiences don’t need alcohol to shine.

Carlsberg Hong Kong Toasts to Mindful Drinking Choices

Driven by increasing consumer demand for healthier and more inclusive drinking options, especially among younger generations, Carlsberg Hong Kong’s latest beverage series embraces the shift toward moderation. Whether it’s over a festive meal, after a workout, or out with friends, the No & Low-Alcohol Range and Beyond Beer products is designed to support all types of occasions.

At the heart of the No & Low-Alcohol Range is Carlsberg 0.0, the flagship product that sets the standard for mindful drinking
At the heart of the No & Low-Alcohol Range is Carlsberg 0.0, the flagship product that sets the standard for mindful drinking

The lineup features new additions to Carlsberg’s expanding No & Low-Alcohol product portfolio, including:

  • Poretti Zero, recognised as the winner of Italy’s “Elected Product of the Year 2025” in the Non-Alcoholic Beer Category, known for its delicate and velvety body crafted from four varieties of hops.
  • Erdinger Alkoholfrei, is a full-bodied alcohol-free beer (ABV <0.5%) filled with notes of spicy malt, caramel sweetness and a touch of fruity acidity.

These are accompanied by trusted favourites like Carlsberg 0.0 – crafted using a unique brewing process that gently removes alcohol through evaporation, preserving the full flavour and refreshing character of traditional beer – Young Master Zero, Young Master Another One, Tetley’s Original Bitter, and the newly rebranded Jolly Shandy Lemon.

This launch also marks the first Dry January since Carlsberg Hong Kong began its strategic partnership with Young Master Brewery, holding exclusive distribution rights for its full portfolio of beers and Ready-to-Drink (“RTD”) products in Hong Kong and Macau since September. With this collaboration, Carlsberg is bringing Young Master’s award-winning products to more consumers than ever before through its extensive distribution network.

Nathaniel Moxom, Managing Director of Carlsberg Hong Kong and Taiwan, said “We are proud to lead the way in promoting mindful drinking and expanding the choices available to our consumers. Through our No & Low-Alcohol Range and Beyond Beer portfolio, we aim to make moderation both accessible and enjoyable, perfectly in tune with today’s evolving lifestyle habits.”

Discover What’s Brewing Beyond Beer

Carlsberg Hong Kong is also introducing a new product category under Beyond Beer, all with purest flavours derived from quality ingredients. This includes a curated range of premium mixers and non-alcoholic beverages designed to elevate the drinking experience, whether enjoyed on their own or as part of creative mocktails. Highlights include:

  • Sophisticated mixers from The London Essence Company ranging from Indian tonic water, soda water and a delicate ginger ale.
  • HIGHERTHAN 0% Salted Lime Soda with Electrolytes from HIGHERTHAN by Young Master, a first-in-market beverage featuring classic Hong Kong salted lime flavour, with added electrolytes – reimagined for modern hydration and boost.

Exclusive Deals to Sip, Shop and Savour

Carlsberg Hong Kong is rolling out a series of consumer promotions both in retail and on-premises throughout January. Shoppers at major supermarkets like Wellcome, ParknShop, city’super, and HKTVmall can enjoy special pricing and gifts with purchase. Customers who purchase designated amount of Carlsberg 0.0 in selected stores or ECOM platforms will receive a complimentary branded shoe bag. A tasting booth at designated city’super will also offer samples of Carlsberg 0.0, Poretti 0.0 and Erdinger 0.0 for curious shoppers.

On foodpanda, the full No & Low-Alcohol Beer and Beyond Beer range will be featured from January lasting for 6 weeks, with alcohol-free selections featured prominently for easy discovery. Participating restaurant brands will offer special promotions and in-app pick-up discounts to make conscious drinking even more accessible.

Around 70 participating outlets will run a Loyalty Stamp Card Programme throughout January. Guests who collect four stamps – one for each purchase of a Carlsberg 0.0 bottle – can redeem an exclusive Carlsberg 0.0 shoe bag, available while supplies last.

Hashtag: #CarlsbergHongKong

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Carlsberg Hong Kong

Carlsberg has grown into one of the world’s leading brewery groups, boasting an extensive portfolio of beer and beverage brands across 150 markets and employing 37,000 staff globally. Carlsberg Brewery Hong Kong Limited offers a diverse range of beers, including Carlsberg, 1664, Somersby, and SKOL.

With a rich tradition spanning 178 years, Carlsberg is driven by a spirit of innovation, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to progress. The company is dedicated to brewing for a better today and tomorrow, continuously striving to enhance its offerings and foster a sustainable future.

IHBMSU and The Digital School have formalised a memorandum of understanding aimed at accelerating digital education initiatives, widening access to cross-border learning programmes and building structured pathways that connect education to employment, according to statements issued by the two institutions.

The agreement outlines cooperation across curriculum design, online delivery platforms and faculty collaboration, with a stated focus on making accredited learning more accessible to learners who face economic or geographic barriers. Officials involved in the partnership said the MoU is intended to combine IHBMSU’s academic framework with The Digital School’s digital infrastructure to support scalable, internationally oriented education models.

Under the terms of the arrangement, the two entities will jointly develop online and blended courses aligned with industry demand, covering areas such as business management, technology, data literacy and applied digital skills. Programmes are expected to be structured to allow flexible pacing and modular certification, enabling learners to accumulate credentials that can be stacked towards full degrees or professional qualifications.

Representatives from both sides said a core pillar of the collaboration is the creation of “learning-to-earning” pathways, particularly for underserved communities. This includes aligning course content with employer needs, embedding practical projects into curricula and facilitating links with industry partners for internships, apprenticeships and job placements. The aim is to reduce the gap between academic training and labour-market outcomes, an issue that has drawn growing attention from policymakers and education providers worldwide.

The MoU also commits the partners to mobilising technical and financial resources to ensure the long-term sustainability of joint initiatives. This may involve co-investment in digital platforms, outreach programmes and learner support systems, as well as engagement with philanthropic organisations, development agencies and corporate sponsors interested in workforce development and social impact education.

IHBMSU officials said the partnership reflects a broader shift within higher education towards digitally enabled delivery and international collaboration. Universities across regions have been under pressure to modernise teaching methods, expand access beyond traditional campuses and respond more quickly to evolving skill requirements. By working with a digital-first education provider, IHBMSU aims to extend its reach to learners outside its conventional geographic footprint while maintaining academic standards.

The Digital School, for its part, said the collaboration strengthens its mission to provide affordable, technology-driven education at scale. The organisation has positioned itself as a platform that blends online instruction, adaptive learning tools and partnerships with accredited institutions. Executives involved in the MoU said working with IHBMSU would allow it to offer learners recognised qualifications alongside practical, employment-focused training.

Education analysts note that such partnerships have become more common as institutions seek to balance quality assurance with the need for speed and flexibility. Digital platforms can lower delivery costs and reach large audiences, but questions around accreditation, assessment integrity and learner outcomes remain central. Collaborations with established universities are often seen as a way to address these concerns while retaining the benefits of digital scale.

The agreement also places emphasis on global learning opportunities, including cross-border classrooms, virtual exchange programmes and collaborative projects involving students from multiple countries. Advocates argue that exposure to international peers and perspectives can enhance employability and cultural competence, particularly in sectors where remote and distributed work has become standard.

While financial terms of the MoU were not disclosed, both parties indicated that pilot programmes would be rolled out in phases, with feedback from learners and employers used to refine course offerings. Metrics such as completion rates, job placement outcomes and learner satisfaction are expected to play a role in evaluating the partnership’s impact.

The move comes against a backdrop of heightened demand for reskilling and upskilling, driven by technological change and shifting labour markets. Employers in fields ranging from information technology to digital marketing and business analytics have reported difficulties finding candidates with job-ready skills, even as large numbers of graduates struggle to secure suitable employment. Education providers have been under pressure to demonstrate that qualifications translate into tangible economic opportunities.

European Union regulators have opened a fresh competition investigation into Google, examining whether the search engine is undermining publishers and content creators by failing to pay fairly for their material while setting conditions that could disadvantage those unwilling to share content for artificial intelligence training. The European Commission said the inquiry will focus on Google Search and YouTube, with particular attention on how content is used to […]

Senegal is moving to start construction of a domestic gas pipeline network before the end of 2025, marking a decisive step in its strategy to channel offshore gas discoveries into power generation and industrial development. The announcement from Petroleum and Energies Minister Birame Soulèye Diop signals that the government aims to accelerate the transition from planning to execution as major gas projects come onstream. The minister confirmed […]

Advertisements

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – As Singaporean families plan for higher education, tuition costs often dominate the conversation. However, the more critical consideration lies in understanding the relationship between cost and value. This article provides an in-depth understanding of the financial implications of pursuing studies at local public universities, private institutions such as SIM, and overseas universities, while highlighting SIM’s distinctive proposition […]

Step into Galaxy Macau to enjoy magical precinct-wide experiences this Winter, unwrapping dazzling seasonal shopping rewards and lucky draws, tasty dining and glittering entertainment as the season of self-reward and gifting comes to life at Asia’s award-winning luxury resort. MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort proudly unveils its spectacular “Gift Yourself Extraordinary” Winter extravaganza, ushering in a season […]

By Dr. Gyan Pathak When Indian rupee was falling in the Mumbai market against US dollar on Wednesday, December 3, 2023 – sliding past the 90-a-dollar mark for the second day, plumbing a new low of 90.29 in the morning trade after opening flat at 89.96, analysts were pegging the next level for the beleaguered […]

The article CEA’s Calmness Over Steep Fall Of Rupee Ignores Key Risks To India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Finding the best conference room in Abu Dhabi is essential for hosting productive meetings, impactful presentations, and memorable corporate events. As the emirate continues to grow as a global business hub, its meeting and event spaces have evolved to match world class standards.  Whether you are planning a board meeting, training session, investor presentation, or full scale corporate gathering, Abu Dhabi offers state of the art venues […]

Belgium has rejected a proposal by the European Union to channel frozen Russian assets toward a major financial aid package for Ukraine, dealing a blow to efforts aimed at sustaining Kyiv’s war-time finances. The plan envisioned a €140 billion “reparations loan,” backed by immobilised Russian central-bank reserves held largely in Belgium’s Euroclear, but Belgian leaders argued the risks are too high—legal, financial and reputational.

The opposition centres on statements from Bart De Wever, Belgium’s prime minister, who described the plan as “fundamentally flawed”. He warned that using the frozen assets at this stage could trigger lawsuits, force Belgium to shoulder massive liabilities, and destabilise confidence in the euro. De Wever rejected broad incentives offered by the European Commission and demanded legally binding guarantees from other EU member states before any commitment.

Backing Ukraine with frozen Russian funds had gained traction as European leaders scrambled to meet Kyiv’s projected needs through 2026–2027. Analysts estimate that Ukraine faces a budget shortfall of more than €135 billion over the next two years, with defence expenditures alone ballooning. The EU had considered not just using interest on the frozen assets — which has supported a G7-backed aid programme so far — but deploying the assets themselves as collateral to unlock large-scale funding.

Yet the European Central Bank has refused to provide emergency liquidity for the proposed loan, citing its mandate forbidding direct monetary financing to governments under EU treaties. The refusal undermines the viability of the scheme, especially since liquidity back-stops were meant to reassure markets and protect institutions like Euroclear from sudden liability.

Some EU member states and financial experts contended that employing frozen assets would free up taxpayer money and symbolically re-affirm Europe’s stance that Russia must pay for its aggression. Academics have pointed out how using immobilised reserves could offer Ukraine immediate relief without expanding EU sovereign debt. The Commission is reportedly exploring fallback options, such as joint borrowing backed by the EU budget or bilateral loans, but those alternatives are expected to carry higher costs and slower disbursement timelines.

Opposing countries argue the plan violates property rights, jeopardises investor confidence and could provoke Russian retaliation, both legally and economically. Euroclear itself has warned of potential lawsuits and damage to its reputation as a global securities depository if assets are re-purposed in this way.

With less than three weeks remaining before a planned EU summit, Belgium’s refusal complicates efforts to finalise a unified approach. Brussels appears unlikely to shift position without assurances that risks will be shared evenly — a prospect many member states view as tantamount to signing a blank cheque.

Targets 11–15% underlying profit CAGR from 2025-28[1], 7–10% online sales mix, and a new dividend policy based on 70% payout, leveraging scale and digital investments to drive shareholder value HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 December 2025 – At its 2025 investor day, DFI Retail Group Holdings Limited (‘DFI’ or the ‘Group’) outlined strategic initiatives for driving sustained profitable growth and enhanced shareholder returns. […]

Showcasing Tech Innovation Businesses that Address Healthcare, Industrial Production and Environmental Pain Points HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 December 2025 – The University of Hong Kong Techno-Entrepreneurship Core (HKU TEC) will organise 30 developing startups to participate in the HKTDC Entrepreneur Day, an entrepreneurial event to be held on 4th and 5th December 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Of […]

India has initiated formal negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, signalling a strategic shift in trade dynamics aimed at expanding commercial engagement beyond traditional markets. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal announced in New Delhi that talks with the five-member bloc—comprising Russia, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan—will begin with negotiations unfolding in the capital this week. The move marks the culmination of the Terms of Reference signed by India and the EAEU in Moscow on 20 August 2025, which laid out an 18-month roadmap for an agreement in goods and potentially services and investment.

Officials from India’s commerce ministry, including Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal, have held preparatory talks in Moscow with EAEU trade officials and representatives of Russian industry to review the roadmap and coordinate next steps. The discussions focused on reinforcing supply-chain resilience, regulatory predictability and balanced growth, with long-term ambitions including an objective to reach USD 100 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

India’s pivot towards the EAEU reflects a broader strategy to diversify export markets, particularly as trade relations with some Western economies become more uncertain amid shifting tariffs and sanctions regimes. The EAEU spans economies that collectively represent a significant regional market; access to these markets is expected to bolster opportunities for Indian exporters.

Key beneficiaries are expected to include micro, small and medium enterprises, agricultural producers such as farmers and fishermen, and sectors seeking broader market reach. The ToR signed in August emphasised support for these groups, intending to open new avenues for exporters who often face high barriers to entry in traditional trade corridors.

Analysts note that an India–EAEU FTA, if successfully concluded, could reshape trade flows for certain goods. Lower import duties and smoother customs regimes could make exports of textiles, agricultural produce, and processed goods more competitive. Simultaneously, Indian consumers and industries might gain access to competitively priced raw materials, machinery, and intermediate goods from EAEU nations, potentially easing input costs for domestic manufacturing.

Despite the promise, several challenges lie ahead. Disparate regulatory standards across EAEU countries, infrastructure bottlenecks, and logistical complexities could complicate the implementation of tariff liberalisation and non-tariff measures. Observers caution that negotiating consensus among five different economies will entail difficult compromises, especially on sensitive sectors such as agriculture or regulated commodities.

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 November 2025 – Due to the rapid growth of Vietnam’s travel market, the Taiwan Smart Tourism Alliance, led by KKday, has invited a range of small- and medium-sized specialty travel operators from across northern, central, and southern Taiwan—including transportation services, tourist attractions, travel experiences, hotel accommodations, and restaurants—to jointly develop a curated “One-Week Round-Island Tour,” leveraging B2C, B2B, and […]

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 November 2025 – Established by the Resource Circulation Administration of the Ministry of Environment in 2024, Circular Inorganic Resource Community Unions Taiwan (CIRCU-Taiwan) has, after a full year of refinement and integration, identified three key areas of focus that will be formally introduced to the public this year. CIRCU-Taiwan brings together arterial industries such as cement, steel, construction materials, […]

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 November 2025 – Melco Resorts & Entertainment is proud to announce that House of Dancing Water’s Premiere project has been honored at the 2025 TITAN Brand Awards with two major distinctions — the Platinum Award for Best Brand Awareness Campaign and the Gold Award for Best Integrated Marketing Campaign. These prestigious accolades celebrate Melco’s strategic marketing excellence and reinforce […]

Tickets will go on public sale on December 4, 2025 MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 November 2025 – International film star and stand-up comedy icon Jimmy O. Yang is making a triumphant return to Galaxy Macau™, taking centre stage at the Galaxy Arena – Macau’s largest indoor arena – for a spectacular night of laughter in “Galaxy Macau Presents: The Jimmy O. Yang Chinese […]

Many homeowners dream of turning a patio, garden, or balcony into a cozy open-air retreat. Yet in reality, these spaces often go underused. In fact, a 2024 survey by the International Casual Furnishings Association found that only 18% of people utilize their outdoor living areas as much as they’d like, but 94% said they would spend more time outside after updating their furniture and décor. This shows how quality, comfortable furnishings can transform a patio or deck […]

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 November 2025 – China showcased its environmental achievements at a side session during the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) in Belém, Brazil, on November 10, underscoring its broader vision of ecological civilization and its ongoing efforts to address climate change. The event, held at the China Pavilion under the theme on ecological civilization and the practice of building […]

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 November 2025 – Tune Protect Re (“Tune Protect”), a leading Travel & Lifestyle reinsurance subsidiary of Tune Protect Group Berhad, has extended its partnership with Ticket2U, Southeast Asia’s premier ticketing platform, to Indonesia with the launch of Ticket Refund Protection and Sports Personal Accident (PA). This milestone aligns with Tune Protect’s regional expansion plan across Southeast Asia, bringing Indonesia […]

A pact between SkyGrid and High Lander has been signed at the Dubai Airshow 2025 to construct a framework for advanced air-mobility operations in the United Arab Emirates, focusing on integrating crewed and uncrewed aerial vehicles. The memorandum of understanding calls for development of airspace management ecosystems, digital operations for electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft and cargo drones, vertiport planning and cybersecurity protocols. SkyGrid, headquartered in Austin, Texas, acts as a third-party service provider for advanced air mobility operations, while High Lander offers unmanned traffic-management and drone-fleet-management solutions. The deal is part of the UAE’s ambition to position Abu Dhabi as a hub for next-generation aviation services.

Under the agreement the firms will jointly assess “Advanced Air Mobility Supporting Operational Environments” to develop technology road-maps and regulatory frameworks that facilitate scalable AAM operations. The collaboration targets areas including airspace integration, enabling vertiport infrastructure, securing digital operations and ensuring safe coexistence of crewed and uncrewed aircraft. SkyGrid chief executive Jia Xu said the alliance “represents a significant milestone in shaping the digital foundation of Advanced Air Mobility in the UAE and across the Middle East”. High Lander’s chief executive Alon Abelson commented that the environment in the UAE, supported by major aerospace players, constitutes “the perfect environment to demonstrate how automation, data-driven management and cross-industry collaboration can transform the future of air mobility”.

Analysis of this partnership places it amid a broader global push for uncrewed traffic-management systems and urban or regional air-mobility networks. Industry research shows that UTM ecosystems are considered vital for the safe scaling of commercial beyond-visual-line-of-sight drone operations. A 2024 readiness index issued by the Global UTM Association named both companies among participants in task forces shaping digital airspace adoption worldwide. That makes this UAE-based partnership a concrete step from theoretical planning to operational readiness.

The UAE’s Economic Vision 2030 describes diversification into technology, aerospace and transport as key pillars. The SkyGrid–High Lander partnership explicitly links with these goals, signalling industry-scale intentions rather than pilot programmes alone. By creating a unified operational blueprint, regulators and operators in the Gulf region may be asked to adapt their air-space classification, licensing and infrastructure regimes. Implementation will still depend on national aviation regulator approvals, air-traffic-management integrations, and standards alignment with international frameworks.

Despite the ambition, challenges remain. Data-sharing protocols across crewed and uncrewed systems must meet stringent safety and cybersecurity standards. Vertiport infrastructure—dedicated landing and take-off sites for eVTOL vehicles—is still nascent globally and will require investment and spatial planning, especially in congested urban zones. Moreover, global certification regimes for eVTOLs and unmanned systems are evolving; regulatory uncertainty may slow deployment. Analysts caution that while the Gulf region offers less airspace congestion than some metropolitan centres, integration of new aircraft types must still ensure separation from traditional air-traffic flows.

According to Dubai People magazine, Mr. Thank You has officially surpassed 50 million followers on Instagram and secured the 135th position in the global ranking of the most popular accounts. This milestone places him among the key digital figures shaping a new era of motivational and emotional content. https://www.instagram.com/mr.thank.you   A new format of positive storytelling Today, Mr. Thank You is viewed as one of the most […]

VISHNU RAJA
RYO YAMADA
HITORI GOTOH
IKUYO KITA