Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)
Members blast President Trump’s travel ban: “We write to express our strong opposition to President Trump’s recent decision to issue a sweeping travel ban that will deny entry to thousands of individuals from 19 different countries.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Leading 68 of their Democratic colleagues, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) and Senator Chris Coons (DE) sent a letter today to the Trump administration urging President Trump to rescind his discriminatory travel ban that will keep families apart and devastate the U.S. economy. The Members are demanding transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and answers about how the travel ban will impact communities across the U.S.
In a letter addressed to President Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Noem, Secretary of State Rubio, and Attorney General Bondi, the Members outlined the disastrous consequences that President Trump’s travel ban will have on both families and the American economy: “The effects of President Trump’s discriminatory travel ban will be devastating. In the last year alone over 126,000 visas have been issued to nationals from just the twelve countries on the fully restricted list. These are individuals who are looking to come to the United States to reunite with family, support our economy, or otherwise enrich our country in innumerable ways.”
During his first term, President Trump enacted extreme ravel bans that disrupted thousands of lives and weakened our nation’s economy and global standing. On his first day in office President Biden rescinded these bans, but on June 4, 2025, President Trump enacted another sweeping, discriminatory travel ban and allowed fear and prejudice to guide our nation’s immigration policy.
President Trump’s ban will prevent nationals from twelve countries (Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) from entering the United States, with seven other countries (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) facing partial restrictions, meaning individuals from these countries cannot come to the U.S. permanently or apply for certain visas. President Trump is also reportedly considering imposing travel restrictions on an additional 36 countries.
“President Trump’s actions once again disgrace the founding principles of our nation and enshrine cruelty into our immigration system,” the Members continue. “Additionally, this travel ban will harm our economy by depriving the United States of workers in key fields experiencing labor shortages like medicine and agriculture and further devastating our domestic tourism industry which is already expected to decline by $12.5 billion in 2025.”
As a result, the Members demand accountability and answers from the Trump administration: “Given these severe impacts, we condemn this proclamation and urge President Trump to rescind it immediately. We also seek transparency into President Trump’s decision-making process and, accordingly, request answers to the following questions by July 3rd, 2025.”
Earlier this year, Rep. Chu, along with Reps. Nadler (NY-12), Beyer (VA-08), Omar (MN-05), Carson (IN-07), and Tlaib (MI-12), and Senator Coons (DE) reintroduced the National Origin-Based Antidiscrimination for Nonimmigrants (NO BAN) Act, which would prevent any president from implementing a discriminatory travel ban by strengthening the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit discrimination based on religion. The bill would also require that any suspension of entry into the United States be narrowly tailored, backed by credible evidence, and subject to appropriate consultation with Congress.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
TIANJIN, July 12 (Xinhua) — An online course on the application of 5G technologies and other relevant areas was recently completed at the Lu Ban Workshop at the Moscow Technical University of Communications and Informatics (MTUCI).
Using Chinese technology and 5G equipment that meets Chinese standards, teachers shared advanced knowledge in the field of digital technology with students. As a result of the classes, students not only expanded their theoretical knowledge base, but also improved their practical skills and increased their ability to solve practical problems.
Lu Ban’s workshop, which officially opened at MTUCI in June this year, was established jointly by MTUCI and Tianjin Vocational College of Electronics and Information Science. It is becoming an important bridge for Chinese-Russian cooperation in the field of digital technologies.
“We have trained teachers. The curriculum covers advanced technologies in the digital economy, such as 5G and the Internet of Things. To date, a total of 1,246 Russian teachers have been trained,” said Qian Guoliang, head of the Department of Modern Communications Technology at Tianjin Vocational College of Electronics and Information Science.
Lu Ban’s workshop at MTUCI is closely linked to the needs of Russia’s digital economy industry, and enterprises in China’s communications industry are actively involved in the workshop’s teaching activities, he added.
Lu Ban Workshop, named after the famous ancient Chinese craftsman Lu Ban, is a brand of international vocational education initiated and promoted by Tianjin City Government.
To date, China has built 34 Lu Ban Workshops in 30 countries and regions around the world. 10 of them were established in Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Pakistan, Cambodia, Egypt and other SCO countries.
Lu Ban’s workshop at MTUCI has provided powerful support to China and Russia in educating highly qualified specialists of international class who meet the needs of information technology development, noted Anastasia Kazantseva, Deputy Director of the Department for the Development of Digital Competencies and Education of the Ministry of Digital Development of the Russian Federation.
Lu Ban’s workshop in Russia will continue to gain strength and show broader development prospects, she said. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United States Senator for Connecticut – Chris Murphy
July 11, 2025
WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and all Democrats on the Committee in a statement on announced plans by the State Department to terminate more than 1,300 personnel.
“As the U.S. retreats, our adversaries—like the People’s Republic of China—are expanding their diplomatic reach, making Americans less safe and less prosperous. If this administration is serious about putting ‘America first,’ it must invest in our diplomatic corps and national security experts—not erode the institutions that protect our interests, promote U.S. values and keep Americans abroad safe.
“The Administration’s decision to fire hundreds of members of the Civil Service and Foreign Service at the Department of State undermines our national security. While there are targeted reforms that our government can pursue to maximize the impact of every tax dollar, that’s not what this is. Blanket and indiscriminate cuts—the legacy from Elon Musk’s failed DOGE effort—weaken our government’s ability to deliver for the American people in a cost-effective manner. There are active conflicts and humanitarian crises in Ukraine, Sudan, Gaza, Haiti and Myanmar—to name a few. Now is the time to strengthen our diplomatic hand, not weaken it. From pursuing peaceful resolutions to out-competing China diplomatically and economically, we can’t afford to not have experienced diplomats at the table.
“We will continue to fight on behalf of the public servants and their families who now face job loss after careers spent advancing America’s interests and values in challenging and often high-risk environments. We call on Secretary Rubio to ensure that any proposed reorganization, including reductions in force, is carried out transparently and in full accordance with U.S. law.”
The statement was signed by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) and Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.).
· ATIDI has approved a USD $84 million counter-guarantee to support issuance of bonds and guarantees for the construction of Rwanda’s New International Airport in Bugesera District. · BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, acting as Mandated Lead Arranger and Facility Agent, leads a consortium of lenders enabling the transaction. · The Project is a vital infrastructure that will accelerate Rwanda’s Vision 2050, its national strategy to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income economy by 2050. · This transaction is aligned with ATIDI’s strategic focus on empowering its member states to deliver impactful, transformative investments that spur growth, sustainability and regional integration.
Kigali, 11th July 2025 – ATIDI has approved a USD84 million counter-guarantee to support three local Rwandan banks and one regional bank in issuing bonds and guarantees totaling over USD322 million. These guarantees have been extended to a joint venture of three contractors undertaking the construction of the New Bugesera International Airport, a transformative project poised to elevate Rwanda as a strategic hub for trade and logistics in Africa.
The project, jointly developed by the Governments of Rwanda and Qatar, is a vital infrastructure that will accelerate Rwanda’s Vision 2050, its national strategy to become an upper-middle-income country by 2035 and a high-income economy by 2050. The airport is also aligned with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) framework, facilitating the free movement of goods, services and people across the continent.
The airport, which is valued over USD2 billion, is scheduled for completion by mid-2028. ATIDI’s cover supports the three local banks including BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, Bank of Kigali (BK), and the Development Bank of Rwanda (BRD), benefitted directly from ATIDI’s risk mitigation, enabling them to issue guarantees beyond their Single Obligor Limits (SOL). The de-risking provided by ATIDI offers banks capital relief while ensuring smoother execution of infrastructure projects.
The lending consortium led by BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, acting as Mandated Lead Arranger and Facility Agent on behalf of the contractors, also includes KCB Bank Kenya, a regional lender, which participated in the syndicate without recourse to ATIDI’s guarantee.
Quote from Manuel Moses, Chief Executive Officer, ATIDI
“ATIDI is proud to partner in Rwanda’s transformation and continental ambitions through this catalytic project, a central piece of the country’s development strategy. The new airport is not just about infrastructure, it’s about unlocking regional value chains and ensuring Africa trades more with itself. Our support demonstrates the value addition of ATIDI’s de-risking solutions in scaling up lending capacity and unlocking financing by banks to Rwanda’s development priorities”
Quote from BPR (Mandated Lead Arranger)
Patience Mutesi, Managing Director of BPR Bank Rwanda Plc, remarked “We are honored to lead this transformational financing effort. As Mandated Lead Arranger, BPR Bank Rwanda Plc is proud to play a pivotal role in unlocking capital for a project that will reshape Rwanda’s connectivity and competitiveness. This collaboration with ATIDI and our partner banks reflects our firm commitment to financing national development priorities and enabling long-term value through strategic infrastructure.”
This transaction is aligned with ATIDI’s strategic focus on empowering its member states to deliver impactful, transformative investments that spur growth, sustainability and regional integration. Rwanda, a founding member of ATIDI, has been a consistent partner in leveraging risk mitigation to unlock capital and de-risk essential sectors.
Currently, ATIDI has issued policies worth over USD1.45 billion in transaction value and holds a gross exposure of over USD611.9 million in Rwanda. These transactions span multiple sectors vital to the country’s development, including agriculture, forestry; fishing; construction; energy and gas; financial activities; information and communication; manufacturing; other services activities; public administration; trade and transportation; transporting and storage; as well as wholesale and retail trade.
This broad sectoral engagement demonstrates ATIDI’s critical and transversal role in de-risking investments and catalyzing trade, infrastructure and socio-economic development across Africa.
About ATIDI
ATIDI was founded in 2001 by African States to cover trade and investment risks of companies doing business in Africa. ATIDI predominantly provides Political Risk, Credit Insurance and, Surety Insurance. Since inception, ATIDI has supported USD88 billion worth of investments and cross border trade into Africa. For more than a decade, ATIDI has consistently maintained a Financial Strength and Counterparty Credit rating of ‘A/Stable’ from Standard & Poor’s. In 2019, Moody’s assigned ATIDI an A3/Positive rating, which was subsequently upgraded to A2/Stable in 2024 and reaffirmed in 2025, reflecting the organization’s robust financial position and strong risk management practices. In recognition of its growing impact, ATIDI was named the Development Finance Institution (DFI) of the Year at the 2025 African Banker Awards.
Source: United Nations General Assembly and Security Council
Following are UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ remarks, delivered by United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director Natalia Kanem, to the UNFPA Award ceremony in New York today:
I am pleased to represent the Secretary-General at this important celebration. I will now read his remarks.
I am honoured to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.
The work we celebrate today — from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights — is central to sustainable development. Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities and accelerate progress for all.
I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA. I also salute the Chair, Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honourees.
In the individual category, we celebrate Dr. Varsha Deshpande of India.
In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them: child marriage; no education; no choice. But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no.
For over 30 years, she has been a force for change. Preventing hundreds of child marriages. Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women. And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan”, “the cherished girl child”, into a movement of hope.
Halfway around the world in France, the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.
Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, ageing societies and climate displacement.
The International Union for the Scientific Study of Population ensures lives are not only counted — but understood and supported.
On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations.
We are all inspired by the work of today’s honourees and the future they help to shape. A future of dignity, equality and opportunity, for every woman, every child and every person, everywhere.
According to news reports, the Yemen-based rebel group – which has been battling the internationally-recognised Government for control of the country since the early 2010s – attacked the Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated Eternity C on Monday and again on Tuesday, causing it to sink on Wednesday morning.
Four crew members are reported to have died.
With 15 crew still missing as of Friday, the group also reportedly took an unspecified number of the seafarers to what rebels described as a “safe location.”
Weekend assault
This came after the Houthis launched missiles and drones at another Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated cargo ship in the Red Sea on Sunday, Magic Seas. The crew was forced to abandon ship, but all 22 members were rescued, according to reports.
Since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have targeted Israeli and commercial ships in the Red Sea deemed to be en route to Israel, in solidarity with Palestinians in the enclave.
In May, following US airstrikes on Houthi strongholds and missile infrastructure, the group agreed a deal with Washington to stop targeting US warships – however, they did not pledge to end attacks on other vessels allegedly linked to Israel.
Strong condemnation: Guterres
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric read a statement from Secretary-General António Guterres on Friday at UN Headquarters, saying the UN chief “strongly condemns the resumption of Houthi attacks on civilian vessels transiting the Red Sea, especially the attacks that took place over 6 to 8 July 2025.”
Mr. Guterres said the “unacceptable” attacks endangered the safety and security of crewmembers, violated freedom of navigation, disrupted maritime transport, and posed serious environmental, economic, and humanitarian risks.
Mr. Guterres also emphasised that international law must be respected by all parties, stressing that UN Security Council resolution 2768 related to Houthi attacks against merchant and commercial vessels must be fully respected.
“The United Nations remains committed to continuing its efforts towards broader de-escalation in the region as well as continued engagement with Yemeni, regional and international actors to secure a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen,” he concluded.
According to news reports, the Yemen-based rebel group – which has been battling the internationally-recognised Government for control of the country since the early 2010s – attacked the Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated Eternity C on Monday and again on Tuesday, causing it to sink on Wednesday morning.
Four crew members are reported to have died.
With 15 crew still missing as of Friday, the group also reportedly took an unspecified number of the seafarers to what rebels described as a “safe location.”
Weekend assault
This came after the Houthis launched missiles and drones at another Liberian-flagged, Greek-operated cargo ship in the Red Sea on Sunday, Magic Seas. The crew was forced to abandon ship, but all 22 members were rescued, according to reports.
Since the start of the war in Gaza in October 2023, the Houthis have targeted Israeli and commercial ships in the Red Sea deemed to be en route to Israel, in solidarity with Palestinians in the enclave.
In May, following US airstrikes on Houthi strongholds and missile infrastructure, the group agreed a deal with Washington to stop targeting US warships – however, they did not pledge to end attacks on other vessels allegedly linked to Israel.
Strong condemnation: Guterres
UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric read a statement from Secretary-General António Guterres on Friday at UN Headquarters, saying the UN chief “strongly condemns the resumption of Houthi attacks on civilian vessels transiting the Red Sea, especially the attacks that took place over 6 to 8 July 2025.”
Mr. Guterres said the “unacceptable” attacks endangered the safety and security of crewmembers, violated freedom of navigation, disrupted maritime transport, and posed serious environmental, economic, and humanitarian risks.
Mr. Guterres also emphasised that international law must be respected by all parties, stressing that UN Security Council resolution 2768 related to Houthi attacks against merchant and commercial vessels must be fully respected.
“The United Nations remains committed to continuing its efforts towards broader de-escalation in the region as well as continued engagement with Yemeni, regional and international actors to secure a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Yemen,” he concluded.
Eurojust hosted Prosecutor Generals from six South Partner Countries – Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco and Palestine*- and nine EU Member States – Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands – to discuss the challenges and best practices in fighting cross-border crimes, with a focus on asset recovery and trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. The EuroMed Prosecutor General Forum also endorsed the multi-annual Strategy 2025-2027 with a roadmap for the project’s objectives and priorities.
The project, funded by the European Commission and implemented by Eurojust, aims at enhancing strategic and operational international criminal justice cooperation. The EuroMed Justice project aims at increased opportunities for dialogue and joint actions between relevant EU Member States and the South Partner Countries, as well as increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation in criminal matters between respective judicial authorities.
The President of Eurojust Michael Schmid opened the Prosecutors General Forum: “It has been a great honour to host the Prosecutors General and senior officials from Algeria, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Morocco, and Palestine*. These past days have confirmed the strong potential of our partnerships and a shared commitment to growing our joint casework. With the 2025–2027 EuroMed Justice Strategy now in place, we are eager to expand our network of Liaison Prosecutors at Eurojust and look forward to welcoming representatives from our Southern Partner Countries in the near future. As a first step, we will facilitate study visits to Eurojust to further build mutual trust, deepen understanding, and lay the groundwork for closer cooperation.“
The meeting was chaired by Alexander Van Dam, National Member for the Netherlands, he said: “It is crucial for all countries to work together to combat serious organised crime, through direct exchanges and sharing of best practices.”
The agenda included the project’s results for Year 1 and 2, a presentation from the European Commission on the International Agreements on cooperation with Eurojust, as well as interventions by the Liaison Prosecutors for Serbia and Norway. Participants further exchanged challenges and best practices in judicial cooperation for asset recovery, trafficking in human beings and migrant smuggling. In the margins of the event, South Partner officials met with the President of Eurojust. The project team also facilitated ten bilateral meetings between the delegations, representatives of Eurojust and the European Commission.
The Forum marked the adoption of the 2025-2027 multi-annual Strategy of the EuroMed Justice project.
* This designation shall not be construed as recognition of a State of Palestine and is without prejudice to the initial positions of the Member States on this issue.
Frederic Phipps, President: Equatorial Guinea at global exploration and production company ConocoPhillips, has joined the African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference as a speaker. Taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025, in Cape Town, the event is the premier meeting place for the continent’s oil, gas and broader energy sectors. With various stages of oil and gas exploration, development and production activities in Equatorial Guinea, ConocoPhillips is an instrumental player in the country. As such, Phipps is well-positioned to discuss strategies for enhancing LNG production and exports at a time when Equatorial Guinea is consolidating its position as a major gas hub.
Aligned with a goal to expand its global portfolio, ConocoPhillips has committed to positioning itself as a key player in Equatorial Guinea’s gas market. The company transported its inaugural LNG cargo from the country in June 2025. The ConocoPhillips-marketed cargo was loaded from the country’s EG LNG terminal at the Punta Europa facility on June 9, forming part of the broader Gas Mega Hub initiative – which seeks to leverage existing infrastructure to create a regional gas industry. During AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025, Phipps is expected to share insights into ConocoPhillips’ strategy in Equatorial Guinea, from LNG production to exploration plans to future exports and investments.
AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
ConocoPhillips plays an instrumental part in developing and producing oil and gas resources in Equatorial Guinea. The country operates in both the Alba and Block D production sharing contracts that form the Alba Unit, located offshore Equatorial Guinea. In 2024, the company further enhanced its presence in Equatorial Guinea with the acquisition of independent oil and gas company Marathon Oil. The acquisition – which saw Marathon Oil become a subsidiary of ConocoPhillips – adds to the company’s deep, durable and diverse portfolio. Marathon Oil supports the development of the country’s Gas Mega Hub, with a five-year agreement in place with natural resource company Glencore for its equity natural gas from the Alba field. The agreement optimizes gas operations by redirecting partial volumes from the methanol plant to the LNG facility. The first LNG cargo represents a key step forward in this agreement.
ConocoPhillips operations in Equatorial Guinea form part of a global strategy which seeks to position the company as a key player in Africa’s energy landscape. Beyond West Africa, the company is strengthening its presence in North Africa, with key investments in Libya. As a long-term partner in the country, ConocoPhillips is targeting increased production through upgrades to existing facilities and investments in underdeveloped reserves. Currently, the company has been gradually increasing production at the Waha concession, which presently produces around 375,000 barrels per day (bpd). Targeting between 600,000 and 700,000 bpd, ConocoPhillips is leveraging collaborations, new workover programs and pipeline integrity to bolster output.
As the company seeks to strengthen its footprint in North and West Africa, AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 offers a vital platform for enhanced collaboration and industry engagement. Uniting stakeholders from both the global and African energy landscapes, the event seeks to drive investment into African energy by providing a platform for engagement and dealmaking. Phipps’ participation underscores ConocoPhillips’ commitment to investing in oil and gas production in Africa and is poised to unlock new opportunities for industry growth in Africa.
“ConocoPhillips continues to play a major role in increasing African oil and gas production. Through strategic investments in Libya and an expanded presence in Equatorial Guinea, the company is creating greater value from the continent’s oil and gas resources. Looking ahead, these investments are expected to fuel the next era of industry development as Africa seeks to make energy poverty history through accelerated hydrocarbon production,” states Tomás Gerbasio, VP Commercial and Strategic Engagement, African Energy Chamber.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
Philippe Tonangoye, Minister of Universal Access to Water and Energy of Gabon, will participate at the African energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place September 29 to October 3, 2025. His participation comes as Gabon implements an aggressive strategy to enhance access to water and energy, with strategic investments and partnerships in infrastructure, power and local businesses. His insights will support future investments as project developers, financiers and global partners convene in Cape Town to discuss strategies for making energy poverty history.
For Gabon, natural gas has emerged as a cornerstone of the country’s petroleum and power development. The country aims to utilize its offshore resources to drive economic growth, leveraging investments in gas-to-power and floating power generation solutions to enhance energy access country-wide. The country’s long-awaited Orinko gas-to-power plant is on track to start construction soon, with a Shareholders’ Agreement signed in May 2025 to advance the project. The project is expected to play a vital role in expanding Gabonese power access, as it will boost the country’s generation capacity by 50%. Developed by Orinko SPV – comprising the state-owned Gabon Power Company in partnership with Wärtsilä, Africa 50, FGIS and Melec PowerGen – the project will be constructed under a build-own-operate-transfer IPP model. Otinko will utilize offshore gas resources as feedstock to produce electricity, laying the foundation for greater generating capacity in Gabon. At present, gas power plants operated by independent oil and gas company Perenco account for 70% of the power in Libreville and 100% of the power in Port-Gentil. With the Orinko facility, Gabon will be well-positioned to significantly enhance access.
Beyond natural gas, Gabon is spearheading a pipeline of renewable energy developments, seeking to enhance access to both grid-connected and off-grid power in pursuit of universal access by 2030. The Orinko milestone follows the start of operations at energy company Karpowership’s floating power plants in Gabon in February 2025. The plants provide electricity to the capital city of Libreville and other regions, thereby boosting the power grid while offering a clean source of power to underserves communities. Karpowership signed a contract in 2024 with Gabon to provide 250 MW of electricity to the country for a period of five years. The company has been supplying 25% of the country’s total electricity via two powership situated at different locations. These solutions represent a flexible and scalable option for Gabon as it strives to enhance access to electricity through modernized infrastructure solutions. Meanwhile, Gabon is investing in new hydropower projects. Currently approximately half of the power consumed in the country is derived from hydro, largely from the Grand Poubara Hydroelectric Dam (160 MW) and Kinguele Aval Hydroelectric Dam (70 MW). However, to achieve its energy goals, much more investment is needed across the power market.
To further support project development, Gabon established a National Fund for Energy and Water (FNEE) in 2025, aimed at mobilizing capital for energy and water projects. The FNEE will address power outages by implementing short-term measures, driving key infrastructure investments and boosting regional energy cooperation. The fund also seeks to revive delayed power projects, including the 125 MW Owendo thermal power station – planned for 2027 -, the Ngoulmendjim and L’impératrice Eugénie hydroelectric plants. The fund falls under the country’s broader National Development Plan for Transition, with the three projects alone requiring an estimated $453 million to develop. This highlights a strategic opportunity for investors and projects developers seeking to make impactful investments in Africa.
“Gabon’s strategy to achieve universal access to electricity is expected to unlock a wealth of economic and development opportunities for the country. By utilizing a variety of different power generation solutions – from gas-to-power to floating facilities to hydroelectric projects and renewables – the country is diversifying and strengthening its portfolio of power facilities. This approach not only creates greater opportunities for energy access but opens up the market to a variety of investors and project developers,” states Ore Onagbesan, Program Director, AEW: Invest in African Energies.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.
About AEW: Invest in African Energies: AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit https://AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.
DG Okonjo-Iweala said: “I am very grateful to the Democratic Republic of the Congo for joining so many other WTO members in taking this step to protect the global commons. We are now just seven ratifications away from the entry into force of this landmark Agreement to curb harmful fisheries subsidies and better preserve our oceans!”
Minister Kahongya said: “By ratifying the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, the Democratic Republic of the Congo reaffirms its commitment to the principles of multilateralism and to ensuring sustainable management of the world’s marine resources. The ratification reflects our country’s determination to contribute actively to preserving the environment, combating overfishing and promoting international trade based on equity, sustainability and solidarity. We also hope that the implementation of this crucial international legal instrument will allow the Democratic Republic of the Congo to participate more actively in world trade.”
The Director-General also received from the Democratic Republic of Congo its acceptance of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA). Concluded in 2013, the TFA contains provisions for expediting the movement, release and clearance of goods which will enhance regional trade integration and connectivity.
Formal acceptances from two-thirds of WTO members are required for the Agreement to enter into force — representing 111 members. The list of the 104 WTO members which have deposited their instruments of acceptance with the WTO is available here.
At the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference (MC12) held in Geneva in June 2022, ministers adopted by consensus the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, setting new, binding, multilateral rules to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. The Agreement prohibits subsidies for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, for fishing overfished stocks, and for fishing on the unregulated high seas.
Ministers also recognized the needs of developing economies and least-developed countries by establishing a fund to provide technical assistance and capacity-building to help governments that have formally accepted the Agreement to implement the new obligations.
The Fish Fund launched a Call for Proposals on 6 June, inviting developing economies and LDCs that have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to submit requests for project grants aimed at helping them implement the Agreement. The WTO Fish Fund portal can be found here.
WTO members also agreed at MC12 to continue negotiating on remaining fisheries subsidies issues. The objective is to find consensus on additional provisions to further strengthen the disciplines on fisheries subsidies.
Information for members on how to accept the Protocol of Amendment is available here.
I am pleased to represent the Secretary-General at this important celebration. I will now read his remarks.
Excellencies, Distinguished guests, Friends,
I am honoured to share a message of profound respect and heartfelt congratulations to this year’s laureates of the United Nations Population Award.
The work we celebrate today – from advancing population science to protecting reproductive rights – is central to sustainable development.
Because when every person can make informed decisions about their body and their future, we unlock opportunities, strengthen communities, and accelerate progress for all.
I thank Dr. Natalia Kanem for her dedication and leadership, as Secretary of the United Nations Population Award Committee and Executive Director of UNFPA.
I also salute the Chair, Ambassador Sidi Mohamed Laghdaf, of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, along with the committee members, for selecting this year’s honourees.
In the individual category, we celebrate Ms. Varsha Deshpande of India.
In a village in Maharashtra, young girls once faced futures decided for them.
Child marriage.
No education.
No choice.
But Varsha Deshpande stood up and said no.
For over 30 years, she has been a force for change.
Preventing hundreds of child marriages.
Providing legal aid to over 10,000 women.
And transforming the simple phrase “Lek Ladki Abhiyan”, “the cherished girl child”, into a movement of hope.
Halfway around the world in France, the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population, has spent nearly a century bridging the gap between data and dignity.
Every four years, they gather global experts to take a deep look at some of our most pressing population challenges, including migration, aging societies, and climate displacement.
The IUSSP ensures lives are not only counted – but understood and supported.
On behalf of the Secretary-General and the United Nations, congratulations.
We are all inspired by the work of today’s honourees and the future they help to shape.
A future of dignity, equality, and opportunity, for every woman, every child, and every person, everywhere.
Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
WASHINGTON – This week, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member of the Senate Subcommittee on Foreign Operation Appropriations, introduced the “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act,” legislation to prevent the unnecessary destruction and waste of foreign assistance commodities—including food, medicine and medical devices—by ensuring that they are delivered to intended recipients before they spoil or expire. The bill would prohibit the destruction of any such commodities unless all efforts to sell or donate them have been exhausted and requires reporting to Congress on any destroyed goods.
Specifically, the “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act” seeks to prevent the State Department’s planned destruction of $9.7 million in family planning commodities instead of donating them to intended beneficiaries. It would also impose requirements to prevent the imminent spoilage of emergency food commodities in warehouses, including a USAID warehouse in Houston, Texas.
“This bill will save lives and prevent the wasting of taxpayer dollars by ensuring that already paid-for life-saving commodities, like food and medicine, are delivered to people in need instead of being pointlessly trashed,” said Ranking Member Shaheen. “At a moment when the Trump Administration has made devastating cuts to foreign assistance it is disappointing that the State Department would sign off on spending money to actually destroy paid-for commodities that would save lives and are waiting to be deployed. Food and family planning commodities are desperately needed in conflict affected countries, like Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo where famine is taking hold. Women are at high risk for sexual violence in conflict settings. This is sadly yet another example of how Elon Musk and the DOGE boys have simultaneously managed to cost lives and undercut America’s influence abroad without saving the taxpayer a single cent.”
“Intentionally destroying health care products or letting food and medication that the United States government has already paid for as part of our foreign assistance efforts rot and expire in warehouses is absurd. It’s a total waste of taxpayer dollars and is needlessly costing lives around the world,” said Ranking Member Schatz. “Our bill requires the administration to follow common-sense and distribute foreign assistance commodities before they expire.”
Last week, Ranking Member Shaheen sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging him to reverse the State Department’s decision to destroy more than $9 million dollars in family planning commodities intended to support women in crisis settings globally. U.S. family planning assistance reaches 47.6 million women and couples every year, preventing 8.1 million unintended pregnancies, 5.2 million unsafe abortions and 34,000 maternal deaths.
Full text of the bill can be found HERE.
The “Saving Lives and Taxpayer Dollars Act” would:
Require that foreign assistance commodities, including food, medicine, and medical devices be made available to intended beneficiaries before the commodities spoil or expire.
Prevent the destruction of any commodity procured or held by the United States unless every effort has been made to sell or donate the commodity before the applicable spoilage or expiration date.
Require reporting to Congress on any destroyed commodities, including the market value of any product or commodity destroyed; and the cost incurred to destroy the commodity.
Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings
30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025
Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings
30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025
Noon Briefing by Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for the Secretary-General.
Highlights:
– 30th Anniversary of the Genocide in Srebrenica
– Occupied Palestinian Territory
– Syria
– Memorandum of Understanding between the UN and the Russian Federation
– Haiti
– Attacks in the Red Sea
– Sudan
– Central African Republic
– World Population Day
– International Days
– Briefings
30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GENOCIDE IN SREBRENICA
Today is the International Day of Reflection and Commemoration of the 1995 Genocide in Srebrenica. In a message for the Day, the Secretary-General notes that as we mark this anniversary in Srebrenica – the worst atrocity on European soil since the Second World War. He stresses that this day is not only a moment of reflection, it is also a call to vigilance and action.
The Secretary-General points out that at a time when hate speech, denial and division are gaining ground, we must stand firm for truth and justice, adding that we must detect early warning signs and respond before violence takes hold, and that we must respect international law, we must defend human rights, and we must uphold the dignity of every individual, and also invest in reconciliation and peace.
And also to note that Rosemary DiCarlo, the Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, represented the Secretary-General at the official ceremony that took place in Bosnia-Herzegovina today. In her remarks, she noted that the genocide in Srebrenica remains one of the darkest chapters in Europe’s recent history, a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred, division and the failure to protect civilians. She emphasized that the legacy of Srebrenica must be a world that never again turns away in the face of atrocity.
Also present from the UN side was Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the High Representative for the UN Alliance of Civilizations.
OCCUPIED PALESTINIAN TERRITORY
Turning to the situation in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs says that every day without a ceasefire brings more preventable deaths – children dying in pain, and hungry people shot while trying to reach the trickle of aid that is allowed in.
And today, once again, we’ve seen horrifying reports of casualties – dozens of them – among people in Rafah who were simply trying to get food and other basic supplies for their families.
Meanwhile, the fuel crisis remains acute.
Yesterday – for the second straight day – our colleagues were able to pick up 75,000 litres of fuel and bring them to the Gaza strip. This is of course a positive development. However, these amounts are a small portion of what is actually required to sustain lifesaving operations every day in Gaza.
To be clear: fuel is still running out in Gaza. More fuel is needed than what is actually brought in. If the current limits aren’t lifted immediately, so we can bring in greater volumes, more services will go dark
We also urgently need unimpeded, safe access inside Gaza. Yesterday, our teams could provide hospitals with some of the fuel that came in – but only in the south. That’s because Israeli authorities denied our attempt to bring fuel to the north.
Such denials are life-threatening.
We know that hospitals in the north are on the verge of shutting down. But it’s not just hospitals: Fuel is also running out for ambulances, it is running out for water treatment facilities and it is running out for many other essential services, all of which are at risk of collapsing.
Overall, out of the 15 humanitarian movements attempted yesterday where coordination was required with the Israeli authorities, five were denied outright, four were initially approved but then faced impediments on the ground, and only six were fully facilitated. Critical missions – such as the evacuation of vulnerable people from high-risk areas, the retrieval of vehicles and spare tires, and the assessment of medical equipment – could not be accomplished.
The facilitation of movements also needs to be timely. OCHA reports that on Wednesday, Israeli authorities denied a request to reach part of Gaza city where 18 injured people were trapped under the rubble. By the time the mission was finally allowed through yesterday, no one was found alive.
And another important reminder from OCHA is that much-needed operations, such as the distribution of tents, cannot even be attempted as stocks are fully depleted, and Israeli authorities are blocking the entry of any shelter materials – for over 130 days now.
Meanwhile, active hostilities and insecurity continue to put civilians – including aid workers – at risk.
Full Highlights: https://www.un.org/sg/en/content/noon-briefing-highlight?date%5Bvalue%5D%5Bdate%5D=11%20July%202025
Jamaica has officially acceded to the Establishment Agreement of African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com), becoming the 13th Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Member State of the African Multilateral Financial Institution. The historic signing took place on the sidelines of the 49th Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community.
Jamaica’s accession marks a major achievement in the growth of Global Africa: an intercontinental partnership committed to economic transformation and self-determination for African nations and their diaspora. The move unlocks an additional US$1.5 billion financing for Jamaica and other Caribbean economies, raising Afreximbank’s total approved facility for the region to US$3 billion, contingent upon full CARICOM membership.
Commenting at the signing ceremony, Prof. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, emphasised the mutual benefits to both parties:
“We are thrilled to welcome Jamaica into the Afreximbank family. Jamaica’s accession to the Partnership Agreement marks a pivotal step towards realising the vision of our forefathers—a united and prosperous Global Africa, built on a platform of South-South cooperation. The Partnership Agreement unlocks Afreximbank’s financing solutions, trade facilitation tools, and investment opportunities, empowering Jamaican businesses to access African markets while fostering reciprocal trade.
Dr. The Most Honourable Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of Jamaica, expressed his optimism for Jamaica’s membership of the Bank:
“This is a significant and strategic step that strengthens Jamaica’s ability to access increased trade financing, investment support, and technical assistance. The agreement creates real opportunities for Jamaica to benefit from Afreximbank’s expanding suite of financial instruments, including trade guarantees, project financing, and capital support tailored to the needs of developing economies. It positions Jamaica to tap into new sources of funding for critical sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, agriculture, and the creative industries, while laying the foundation for deeper collaboration between African and Caribbean businesses.”
This historic signing builds on the momentum of the inaugural AfriCaribbean Trade and Investment Forum (ACTIF), held in Bridgetown, Barbados in September 2022, where Caribbean nations reaffirmed their commitment to closer Africa-Caribbean cooperation. Since then, Afreximbank has hosted successive ACTIFs in Guyana (2023) and The Bahamas (2024), with the fourth forum scheduled for 28–29 July 2025 in Grenada.
Since establishing its regional office, Afreximbank has approved over US$700 million in financing across the Caribbean, with a pipeline exceeding US$2 billion. Investments have supported key sectors such as energy, tourism, education, and small business development across Barbados, St. Lucia, Suriname, Grenada, and The Bahamas. The Bank also provided over US$4.3 million in pandemic-related assistance through the Africa Vaccine Acquisition Task Team (AVATT) to The Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, and Trinidad & Tobago.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.
Media Contact: Vincent Musumba Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations) Email: press@afreximbank.com
About Afreximbank: African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.
Across the five states that make up Darfur, UNICEF data revealed a 46 per cent increase in the number of children treated for SAM in January to May 2025 compared to the same period last year.
The rate of acute malnutrition has surpassed emergency levels set by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 9 of the 13 localities across Darfur.
In North Darfur alone, over 40,000 children were admitted for SAM treatment in the first five months of the year – double the number from the same period last year.
Besieged and starved
This malnutrition surge comes amid intensifying conflict in North Darfur since April. Entire neighborhoods have been besieged, hospitals targeted by airstrikes, roads rendered impassable while aid convoys have faced looting and violent attacks.
The situation is particularly catastrophic in El Fasher, where humanitarian access has been nearly completely severed since the RSF militia besieged the city – the last held by Government forces in the region – and cut off assistance in April of 2023.
UNICEF successfully delivered a batch of supplies to El Fasher earlier this year, but efforts to send additional aid have been blocked.
“Children in Darfur are being starved by conflict and cut off from the very aid that could save them,” said Sheldon Yett, UNICEF Representative for Sudan. “This is a moment of truth; children’s lives depend on whether the world chooses to act or look away.”
The crisis has triggered mass displacement in the area: in April, nearly 400,000 people fled the Zamzam camp near El Fasher. Many walked up to 70 kilometres to reach Tawila, where more than 500,000 displaced people survive with little access to food, water, or adequate shelter.
Nationwide crisis
SAM is the deadliest form of malnutrition, and children suffering from it are highly vulnerable to life-threatening complications and face a high risk of death without proper treatment.
And the crisis isn’t limited to the Darfur states – SAM admissions rose by more than 70 per cent in North Kordofan, 174 per cent in Khartoum State and a staggering 683 per cent in Al Jazirah State.
However, the report noted that the rise in admissions in Al Jazirah and Khartoum is partially due to improved security and humanitarian access, enabling more families to reach health centres.
Compounding the crisis is Sudan’s lean season – a period of food scarcity between harvests – which is rapidly increasing the risk of mass child mortality, particularly in areas already nearing famine thresholds.
Cholera outbreaks, measles cases and collapsing health services are further aggravating the crisis, putting vulnerable children at even greater risk.
UNICEF response
UNICEF and its partners are saving lives by treating the wounded and malnourished, drilling wells and distributing food. But despite their best efforts, the violence is driving needs faster than they can be met.
UNICEF is calling on all parties to allow unimpeded humanitarian access to affected populations and urges renewed diplomatic pressure on all sides for a cessation of hostilities.
The agency is also appealing to the international community for more lifesaving funds. An additional $200 million is needed this year to sustain and expand essential nutrition services, including treatment for acute malnutrition.
Left vulnerable, communities then formed self-defence groups and Haitian security forces reinforced their operations and made small gains only to be rebuffed again by gangs.
And at all stages of this cycle, human rights violations are being committed against civilians, according to a report released on Friday by the UN office in Haiti (BINUH) and the UN human rights office (OHCHR).
“Caught in the middle of this unending horror story are the Haitian people, who are at the mercy of horrific violence by gangs and exposed to human rights violations from the security forces and abuses by the so-called ‘self-defence’ groups,” said Volker Türk, High Commissioner for Human Rights.
The report also warned about “early signs of criminal governance” in the Centre Department where gangs are beginning to consolidate their gains and act as a de facto governing authority.
Four years of horror
Since 2021 and the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, gang violence has dominated the capital Port-au-Prince which is now 85 per cent controlled by gangs, says the UN.
Over 1.3 million Haitians have been displaced because of this violence, representing the largest displacement due to political upheaval in Haitian history.
Food insecurity among displaced Haitians is rampant, with Haiti one of five countries worldwide which is experiencing famine-like conditions.
As of March 2025, the violence has also expanded into previously untouched areas of the country, specifically the Artibonite and Centre Departments where 92,000 and 147,000 people have been displaced respectively.
The report also noted that recently, gangs have begun to expand beyond central Haiti towards the border of the Dominican Republic, with the apparent goal of controlling key roads through which much of the illegal weapons trafficking is happening.
“The expansion of gang territorial control poses a major risk of spreading violence and increasing transnational trafficking in arms and people,” said Ravina Shamdasani, a UNHCR spokesperson at a briefing in Geneva.
Human rights endangered
Between October 2024 and June 2025, 4,864 people in Haiti have been killed by gang violence. At least hundreds more have been injured, kidnapped, raped and trafficked.
“Human rights abuses outside Port-au-Prince are intensifying in areas of the country where the presence of the State is extremely limited,” said Ulrika Richardson, interim Head of BINUH and UN Resident Coordinator.
While many of these human rights violations – including the denial of the right to life and physical integrity, sexual violence and forced displacement — are being perpetrated by organized gangs, there are also documented human rights abuses at the hands of Haitian authorities.
Specifically, between October 2024 and June 2025, there were 19 extrajudicial executions by security forces in the Artibonite and Centre Departments – 17 of them in Artibonite.
Self-defence groups, which are increasingly prevalent as a result of inadequate State security, have also committed human rights violations, often in the form of lynchings of suspected gang members.
“The human rights violations and abuses that we have documented are further evidence of why Haiti and the international community urgently need to step up to end the violence,” Mr. Türk said.
At this point, there have been no documented human rights abuses committed by the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission authorized by the United Nations and funded and staffed largely by Kenya.
No accountability
The Haitian National Police and MSS have launched multiple operations to regain territory lost to the gangs. While some have been briefly successful, the operations have been unable to maintain a lasting presence or protect local communities, according to the report.
In fact, the report suggests that in the Centre, the situation is trending in the opposite direction with gangs consolidating territorial gains outside the capital and beginning to institute forms of criminal governance.
As a result of this persistent insecurity, judicial operations are virtually at a standstill in the Centre and Artibonite Departments.
“The international community must strengthen its support to the authorities, who bear the primary responsibility for protecting the Haitian population,” said Ms. Richardson.
Crypto payments platform expands functionality with high-speed Solana blockchain support as wallet enters final testing phase.
KOŠICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix has officially announced that its upcoming RTX Wallet, set for full release in Q3 2025, will launch with native Solana integration . The feature will allow users to instantly swap Solana (SOL) and SPL stablecoins (USDC, USDT) directly into local currencies, alongside support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP.
The integration of Solana enhances the real-time functionality of the RTX Wallet, which is currently undergoing TestFlight trials on iOS. An Android beta release is scheduled for August, marking a significant milestone as the company prepares for its official rollout. The Solana upgrade is designed to increase transaction speed, lower settlement fees, and expand RTX’s usability for both consumers and merchants in high-frequency payment environments.
“With Solana’s scalability and speed—capable of handling up to 50,000 transactions per second—we’re delivering near-instant conversions of digital assets into local currency,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This means that a merchant in Bogotá or Nairobi can receive a crypto payment and see fiat arrive in their account in under 10 seconds, at a fraction of traditional processing costs.”
Remittix reports it has surpassed $16 million in presale commitments, with over 549 million RTX tokens sold at a price of $0.0811, and is on track to complete its $18 million soft cap in the coming weeks.
Designed to streamline global digital payments, RTX Wallet introduces a simplified user interface where cryptocurrency can be converted into local cash via a single tap. Its dual-key security system, combining encrypted mobile storage and facial-recognition-based cloud access, aims to balance ease-of-use with robust control. Built-in merchant features include automated tax savings and spare-change rounding to support micro-savings.
Upcoming Developments
Public Android Beta: Launching in August 2025
Freelancer Plug-in: Scheduled for October, enables instant invoicing and settlement in RTX
Licensing: Near-final approvals in Brazil and Kenya, two key markets for cross-border transfers
As Solana’s integration goes live and licensing expands, Remittix is positioning RTX Wallet as a gateway to fast, accessible, and secure real-world crypto payments.
For more information and updates on the RTX Wallet launch and token presale:
Disclaimer: This content is provided byRemittix. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented.We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article.This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice. Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital.It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose.Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed. Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release.In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.
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Crypto payments platform expands functionality with high-speed Solana blockchain support as wallet enters final testing phase.
KOŠICE, Slovakia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Remittix has officially announced that its upcoming RTX Wallet, set for full release in Q3 2025, will launch with native Solana integration . The feature will allow users to instantly swap Solana (SOL) and SPL stablecoins (USDC, USDT) directly into local currencies, alongside support for Bitcoin, Ethereum, and XRP.
The integration of Solana enhances the real-time functionality of the RTX Wallet, which is currently undergoing TestFlight trials on iOS. An Android beta release is scheduled for August, marking a significant milestone as the company prepares for its official rollout. The Solana upgrade is designed to increase transaction speed, lower settlement fees, and expand RTX’s usability for both consumers and merchants in high-frequency payment environments.
“With Solana’s scalability and speed—capable of handling up to 50,000 transactions per second—we’re delivering near-instant conversions of digital assets into local currency,” said a Remittix spokesperson. “This means that a merchant in Bogotá or Nairobi can receive a crypto payment and see fiat arrive in their account in under 10 seconds, at a fraction of traditional processing costs.”
Remittix reports it has surpassed $16 million in presale commitments, with over 549 million RTX tokens sold at a price of $0.0811, and is on track to complete its $18 million soft cap in the coming weeks.
Designed to streamline global digital payments, RTX Wallet introduces a simplified user interface where cryptocurrency can be converted into local cash via a single tap. Its dual-key security system, combining encrypted mobile storage and facial-recognition-based cloud access, aims to balance ease-of-use with robust control. Built-in merchant features include automated tax savings and spare-change rounding to support micro-savings.
Upcoming Developments
Public Android Beta: Launching in August 2025
Freelancer Plug-in: Scheduled for October, enables instant invoicing and settlement in RTX
Licensing: Near-final approvals in Brazil and Kenya, two key markets for cross-border transfers
As Solana’s integration goes live and licensing expands, Remittix is positioning RTX Wallet as a gateway to fast, accessible, and secure real-world crypto payments.
For more information and updates on the RTX Wallet launch and token presale:
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So-called professional enablers of grand corruption are increasing service provision out of jurisdictions where they can act without similar restraints.WaitForLight / Shutterstock
During an interview one of us (Ricardo Soares de Oliveira) carried out in 2017, an African high net-worth individual said he was told by an executive whose business had long served him out of London: “Come meet us in Dubai”. This is part of a large but still misunderstood shift.
In response to the hardening of rules for foreign money of dubious origins in traditional financial centres, sensitive business has been moving toward new, more permissive jurisdictions. This offshoring of services is giving corrupt strategies a new lease of life, while also making the fightback more difficult.
For every corrupt dealing that materialises as legitimate wealth, a trail of service provision is indispensable. Bankers, lawyers, real estate executives, accountants, management consultants and PR agencies have acted as facilitators in western financial centres.
Western governments have long indulged kleptocracy, a system where business success and political power are inextricably entwined. They have done so by condoning lax law enforcement and promoting deregulation, often through risible mechanisms of professional self-regulation.
But in recent years, data leaks and brave championship of reform by politicians, as well as the work of civil society organisations, investigative journalists and academics, have shed light on the role of these so-called professional enablers.
In June 2024, a month before becoming British foreign secretary, David Lammy promised to take aim at professionals who enable corruption through London and the UK’s overseas territories. This, he noted, included the “finest bankers, lawyers, estate agents and accountants that money could buy”.
Lammy’s comments give the impression that the era of risk-free facilitation of corrupt behaviour is at an end. But this optimism is, at least for now, misplaced.
The shift is largely in political discourse and media scrutiny. Enforcement seriously lags everywhere and is now in reverse gear in the US. Professional enablers still face no real sanction for engaging in such practices.
At the same time, many professionals are reacting to a more tightly regulated ecosystem in western jurisdictions by engaging in so-called “jurisdictional arbitrage”. There is evidence that they are increasing service provision out of jurisdictions where they can act without similar restraints.
Jurisdictional arbitrage
Almost all cases of the professional enabling we have studied involve service provision in western hubs and “new” global financial centres.
The professional network around Gulnara Karimova, the daughter of the former president of Uzbekistan, Islam Karimov, was dubbed “the office” by Swiss prosecutors. Karimova was jailed in 2014 for taking bribes for access to the country’s market.
The criminal investigation into her involved 12 jurisdictions, including the UK, US and Uzbekistan as well as the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Hong Kong.
Isabel dos Santos, who is Africa’s richest woman and the daughter of former Angolan president José Eduardo dos Santos, also held a maze of global interests. These interests, as in the case of Karimova, spanned western jurisdictions and Asian financial centres such as Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Alternative jurisdictions all offer very similar conditions. They are already well-connected, world-class financial centres that are attractive to international business executives.
Their governments have created regulatory, fiscal and secrecy conditions, sometimes explicitly undercutting older centres such as Switzerland and London. In the latest edition of the Global Financial Centers index, which ranks the competitiveness of financial centres, Dubai rose four places to go above Dublin, Geneva and Paris.
Crucially, they are also mostly authoritarian states where there is no media or civil society pressure regarding business activities. Even the intermittent sort of scrutiny one sees in western financial centres is absent there.
Much activity in these financial centres is legal and based on their legitimate competitive advantages. Business interests are also attracted by their vast capital pools. But they are proving to be especially appealing for the sort of business that can no longer flock to other jurisdictions.
This is the case with servicing clients from states under sanctions such as Russia or Iran. It also applies to regions like Africa and central Asia with high compliance barriers whose high net-worth individuals and firms can no longer get easy access to OECD jurisdictions.
Researchers at the University of Sussex have shown a major shift in dirty money networks away from the west and towards what they call a “Dubai-Kong axis”.
There is no exact portrait of the magnitude of this jurisdictional arbitrage. But our work tells us it is big. Two examples from Switzerland are commodity trading and wealth management.
These sectors have long been under-scrutinised. But they have seen regulatory tightening and greater media attention in recent years. Both have reacted the same way, by sending important parts of their business away from Switzerland.
The UAE has been dubbed the “new Swiss financial mecca”, with the Financial Times reporting in May 2025 that Swiss family offices are moving there “wholesale”. Far from downplaying the “Swiss brand”, they continue to advertise their multi-generational expertise and “old money” mystique, but from more amenable locations.
What can be done?
The many types of legal business involving professional services in these jurisdictions should not be affected. But national and international law must designate the “kleptocratic enterprise” of elites and professionals as a form of serious organised crime.
This would allow prosecutors to target professionals for working with criminal kleptocrats rather than having to prove that the particular asset handled has criminal origin. This move was made by Swiss prosecutors in the Karimova case.
It captures the reality that ill-gotten gains are layered and integrated into assets held overseas, just as enablers do for criminal gangs. It also means that the moving of the family office to Dubai will not prevent prosecution where an asset is held or registered.
Finally, governments could stimulate the market in asset recovery by making it easier for foreign governments and civil society to bring cases, with expert law firms working on a for-profit basis.
Illicit finance is always transnational, so there is no need to declare defeat just because dodgy business is on the move. However, we are entering a new stage in its global dissemination and complexity.
John Heathershaw receives funding from the Governance Integrity Anti-Corruption Evidence Programme funded by UK Aid from the UK Government for the benefits of developing countries. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the UK government’s official policies. He is affiliated with the UK Anti-Corruption Coalition.
Ricardo Soares de Oliveira receives funding from the Governance Integrity Anti-Corruption Evidence Programme funded by UK Aid from the UK Government for the benefits of developing countries. The views expressed are not necessarily those of the UK government’s official policies.
Since figures were first recorded in 2018, more than 170,000 people have crossed the Channel in small boats, hoping to claim asylum in the UK. Over 20,000 have crossed this year alone, and many dozens have died.
Over the years, UK governments have tried a number of tactics – returns agreements, increased law enforcement, deportation schemes, and “smashing” organised smuggling gangs – to try and put an end to this dangerous practice. The latest attempt is the government’s new “one in, one out” pilot migration deal with France, which would see the UK accept some asylum seekers with legitimate claims to life in the UK, while sending an equivalent number back to France.
Campaigners, academics and groups that support asylum seekers have long called for the UK to introduce “safe and legal routes”. They argue that this is the only way to reduce demand for unsafe Channel crossings. The logic is that people seeking protection are turning to smugglers and small boats because, for most, there are no other options to enter the UK and claim asylum.
But what are these routes?
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A safe and legal route is a scheme or journey approved by the UK government that allows people to enter the country without a visa in order to claim asylum. The 1951 refugee convention says that people have the right to claim asylum. But UK law requires someone to be physically present in the country to do so.
A safe and legal route stresses that arriving irregularly – for instance, by crossing the Channel in a small boat – is illegal, even though the UN refugee convention is explicit that refugees should not be penalised for how they arrive to claim refuge.
Most schemes are restricted to certain populations and limited in accessibility. For example, two nationality-specificschemes for Afghans were set up in January 2022, after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. These have resettled roughly 34,000 Afghans in the UK.
The schemes prioritised those who had worked or assisted UK efforts in Afghanistan, as well as assisting vulnerable people such as women and girls at risk, and minority groups. Both routes are now shut.
The UK also has schemes for Ukrainians and Hong Kongers. The Ukrainian schemes (Homes for Ukrainians and the now-closed Ukrainian Family Scheme), established in March 2022, have resettled 217,000 to the UK. The Hong Kong scheme is only eligible for British National Overseas status holders and their dependants. Most of these are not recognised, and nor do they identify, as refugees. Since opening in January 2021, 179,000 have been granted a visa to live in the UK.
There is also the family reunion pathway for those already granted protection in the UK, who can invite spouses or other dependants to join them. This can be viewed as a safe route, but it is specifically for those already with status (refugee or otherwise) in the country. Importantly, those who gain access this way are not given refugee status in their own right, but granted leave to remain that is connected to their family member’s status.
The UK has also worked closely with UNHCR, the UN refugee agency, since March 2021. The UNHCR identifies vulnerable candidates for resettlement direct from regions of conflict, primarily the Middle East and North Africa. This scheme highlights the value of safe and legal routes and the potential for developing a humane asylum route, but at present it is limited in scope, with only 3,798 people granted safe and dignified resettlement in the UK via this route.
The prime minister, Keir Starmer, has stressed that the new pilot with France will be limited to people “who have not tried to enter the UK illegally” and who have a strong case for asylum in the UK – again highlighting the strict access and eligibility for this “safe and legal” route.
If we look at the map of international conflict today, the majority of people in conflict zones would be ineligible for these schemes. Afghans, Eritreans, Syrians, Iranian and Sudanese are some of the top nationalities arriving via the Channel crossing to the UK, but are provided with no safe or legal routes to sanctuary. Yet, in claiming asylum, 68% of small boat arrivals are ultimately granted status.
Conflicts in Gaza, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan have not led to any bespoke humanitarian refugee protection rights from the UK. In practice, it is legally impossible for most asylum seekers to reach the UK via a safe and legal route as the schemes are so limited in scope.
Smashing the gangs
In January 2025, the Refugee Council, an organisation that supports asylum seekers and refugees in the UK, urged the UK to introduce a safe and legal route – in the form of a limited number of refugee visas – in order to stop deaths in the Channel.
Between 2018 and April 2025, 147 people have died attempting to cross the Channel in small boats, with 2024 being the deadliest year for child migrant deaths.
The UK government’s most recent approach has been to “smash the gangs” to prevent small boat crossings. But evidence shows that a criminal justice approach, while popular, ultimately leads smugglers to change their business practices – often jeopardising people further as they take longer routes or put more people into boats.
More safe and legal routes would, on the other hand, reduce demand for smuggling across the Channel, by giving people another option.
Crucially, even if the UK were to successfully “smash the gangs”, this does not eradicate peoples’ need for protection when fleeing war zones. Safe and legal routes would introduce a compassionate and humane refugee system which adheres with the UK’s obligations under international refugee law.
Gillian McFadyen receives funding from ACE Hub Wales, Public Health Wales for the project ‘A Welsh Pathways to Peace: Digital Storytelling and Forced Migration’ (2025-2026).
The World Health Organization has formally recognized the pivotal role of a number of heads of state and government in securing the adoption of the WHO Pandemic Agreement by the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly in May 2025.
At a special event at WHO Headquarters in Geneva on 10 July 2025, plaques were presented to the representatives of two countries whose former and current presidents, His Excellency Sebastián Piñera, former President of Chile, and His Excellency Kais Saied, President of Tunisia, advocated for the Agreement from the outset. Certificates were also awarded to leaders of 25 other countries for their guidance and commitment throughout the negotiation process.
“The adoption by the World Health Assembly of the Pandemic Agreement was a historic moment in global health,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “But we would not have reached that moment without sustained political advocacy from the highest levels”.
Countries whose current or former presidents or prime ministers were also recognized include Albania, Costa Rica, Croatia, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Indonesia, Italy, Kenya, Republic of Korea, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Rwanda, Senegal, Serbia, South Africa, Spain, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Political momentum behind the Agreement was galvanized in part by a commentary published in major international outlets in 2021, in which 25 heads of state and international organizations called for a pandemic treaty.
Work has now begun to take forward key elements of the Pandemic Agreement, in particular on pathogen access and benefit sharing. This work is being led by an intergovernmental working group (the “IGWG on the WHO Pandemic Agreement”), which met for the first time this week.
July 11, 2025 – Ottawa, ON – National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) is deploying approximately 600 personnel to participate in the largest-ever iteration of Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25 (Ex TS25) from July 13 to August 4, 2025. This exercise will take place in and around Australia and for the first time, in Papua New Guinea.
Hosted biennially by Australia, Exercise TALISMAN SABRE brings together over 30,000 military personnel from 19 nations for advanced multinational training. This year’s iteration will feature large-scale warfighting exercises, including firepower demonstrations, tactical sustainment rehearsals, and joint operations across land, air, sea, space, and cyber domains.
Ex TS25 marks Canada’s largest single deployment of military personnel to the Indo-Pacific region since the launch of Operation HORIZON. It will also be the first major exercise to involve a broad spectrum of Canadian Armed Forces capabilities deployed together, drawing on personnel and assets from the Royal Canadian Navy, Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF), Canadian Forces Cyber Command (CAFCYBERCOM), 3 Canadian Space Division (3 CSD), and Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM).
The CAF’s contribution includes His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ville de Québec, which will conduct live-fire naval exercises, and RCAF assets providing both strategic and tactical airlift. Together, these forces will demonstrate the CAF’s readiness to conduct integrated and expeditionary operations alongside key partners.
Participation in Ex TS25 strengthens Canada’s defence cooperation with the Australian Defence Force and advances the priorities set out in the Joint Statement on Strengthening the Canada–Australia Defence Relationship. This deployment sends a clear signal: Canada is deepening its commitment to collective security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
As global threats evolve, Canada will continue stepping up by investing in strong partnerships and demonstrating its capacity to contribute meaningfully to peace and security around the world.
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
On 11 July, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala received the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies from the Minister for International Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya. Just seven more acceptances are needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
On 11 July, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala received the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies from the Minister for International Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya. Just seven more acceptances are needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
On 11 July, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala received the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies from the Minister for International Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya. Just seven more acceptances are needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm
Source: World Trade Organization – WTO (video statements)
On 11 July, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala received the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s instrument of acceptance of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies from the Minister for International Trade, Julien Paluku Kahongya. Just seven more acceptances are needed for the Agreement to enter into force.
Download this video from the WTO website:
https://www.wto.org/english/res_e/webcas_e/webcas_e.htm