Latin America – LiveNews.co.nz

Advocacy – Israel buying Nauru embassy in Jerusalem – PSNA

LiveNews Publisher — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:16:45 +0000

Source: Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa – PSNA

25 July 2026

PSNA says the news this week of Nauru opening an embassy in Jerusalem is an alarming indication of Israel diplomatically consolidating its illegal occupation of Palestinian Territory and buying Pacific votes in the United Nations.

Israel and the government of Nauru have announced Nauru will open an embassy in Jerusalem, following an announcement in January that Samoa would locate its embassy there.

Papua New Guinea and Fiji have already established their embassies in Jerusalem, along with the US, Paraguay, Honduras, Guatemala and Kosovo.

All other countries have their embassies in Tel Aviv, to avoid inferring approval of Israeli sovereignty claims over Jerusalem.

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa spokesperson Rinad Tamimi says Israel is unashamedly using Pacific countries to undermine the international consensus that Israel’s claims over all of Jerusalem are legally not valid.

“That nearly half of the countries with embassies in Jerusalem are from the Pacific clearly shows the effort and dollars Israel is putting into the region.”

“Tuvalu, with a population of 12,000, has only five diplomatic posts in the entire world, and suddenly its government finds a need to have another one in Jerusalem.”

“The other concerning aspect is the Pacific votes in the United Nations. In 2024 there was a landmark vote in the United Nations to instruct Israel that it had 12 months to get out of the Occupied Palestinian Territory.”

“New Zealand voted in favour, along with 123 other countries. But seven Pacific nations voted against upholding this statement of international law. That was half of the 14 countries who voted against,” Tamimi says.

“Obviously we are in favour of Pacific countries being independent and making their own choices. But PSNA is speaking out to support indigenous groups in those countries who see Israel as a highly aggressive modern colonial venture which should not be permitted by their governments to manipulate the Pacific for its interests against international law.”

“New Zealand’s government is critical when it believes other countries are increasing their interests in the Pacific. It’s time Wellington made the same statements about Israel.”

MIL OSI

VENEZUELA: Children and parents speak of fear, sleeplessness and missing their homes one month after earthquakes

LiveNews Publisher — Sat, 25 Jul 2026 08:07:35 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Children impacted by the twin earthquakes in Venezuela a month ago said they are missing their homes, schools and loved ones and friends who were among the nearly 5,400 people that died in the disaster, said Save the Children.

In emotive, personal testimonies, children and their parents supported by Save the Children told the aid agency of the risks and hardship of living in tents, with parents worried about their children’s safety, while dealing with their own grief and loss.

The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 earthquakes on 24 June destroyed homes and infrastructure across Venezuela with more than 16,700 people injured [1], over 23,300 displaced in transitional camps and thousands more sheltering in informal tented camps, where regular clean water and toilets are very limited [2].

Heriberto*, 7, from La Guaira, was displaced with his family and his dog Deimos the day of the earthquake and said he worries that rebuilding what was lost could take a long time.

He recalls fearing for his life the night of the earthquake. “It gave me a terrible fright. Like, ‘Mom, Mom, I don’t want to die!’”

“One floor became the ground floor. I don’t know how that happened. And when I saw everything, all of La Guaira, it was like this, all chipped up, rubble. I think it takes years to repair this. Like years, I don’t know.”

Despite the upheaval, Heriberto said he is focusing on the things that still bring him joy such as playing with Lego, riding his bicycle and scooter, and spending time with friends. He also holds onto his dreams for his future and for a better world.

Heriberto said: “What I would love most is if we are all hungry, there would be food”

“I would like to be a footballer…I’m also going to be an airplane pilot.”

Alba*, 11, who was due to graduate from primary school on 30 June, says the earthquakes transformed her world in an instant, putting the life she knew on hold. “I’ve never been through anything like this. It feels very strange to be here,” Alba said.

“This whole thing has been going by slowly. I thought I was only going to be here for two months, one month and that’s it, but no.”

She also struggles to sleep. “Sometimes I need more sleep because I get up early every day. Sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night and stay awake.”

Marcela*, 33, who was displaced with her four-year-old daughter Emma* said that one of the hardest parts of the earthquakes has been watching the impact on Emma.

“Before all this happened, my daughter was always a little girl who watched her cartoons, went to school, a truly calm little girl. Today, everyone who approaches her, she would tell them ‘[my house] it broke,’” said Marcela.

“You have to work three times as hard to support them like before because unfortunately they don’t have a bed, the same comfort as before. You are adapting little by little to this reality because this reality, it’s not a dream.”

Parents and humanitarian agencies also report that children and adolescents living in displacement face increasing threats to their safety including a lack of security, privacy and lighting at night, placing girls and women at particular risk. [3]

Alba’s mother Rosa Iciela*, 33, said that the crowded conditions leave her constantly uneasy about her daughter’s safety. She said that she tries to keep Alba in sight, but it is difficult.

Rosa Iciela said: “At night, people walk or walk, they pass by. You never know who’s walking behind you. That’s tough, because they’re still just girls and it’s hard to see because here there are so many people, many men that we’ve never seen before.”

“I think, for all mothers, the greatest fear is that something might happen to their children.”

Save the Children’s acting Country Director in Venezuela, Maria Mercedes Liévano, said:

“Children in Venezuela remain in limbo as their sense of safety, routine and normality have been ripped away by June’s earthquakes. Children are telling us that they miss their homes, their schools and their loved ones, and many of them are still carrying the trauma and grief of the earthquake with them.

“One month on, the disaster may not be making as many headlines, but now is not the time for the world to look away from the children of Venezuela, who continue to live through the earthquake’s impact day after day, with children as young as seven telling us they are worried about the future.

“The physical and emotional wounds left by an earthquake of this scale cannot be healed overnight, but children need both immediate and long-term support to ensure that this devastating disaster does not cause long lasting harm. Protection and psychosocial support are urgent priorities, as well as support with healthcare, water, nutrition and shelter.”

Save the Children is on the ground in Venezuela running safe spaces where children can access mental health support and continue learning while schools remain closed, and where those with more significant needs can be referred for individual support. Save the Children is also working with authorities and local partners providing primary healthcare through mobile clinics, distributing hygiene kits, clean water and essential supplies.

Save the Children has been working in Venezuela since 2019. Since the humanitarian crisis started to rapidly deteriorate a few years ago, Save the Children has been scaling up its response through local partners to support the increasing number of children in need. Save the Children is delivering health, nutrition, education, child protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene and food security and livelihoods support.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Save the Children is raising much-needed funds to support the response in Venezuela. To donate, go to: Venezuela Earthquakes Appeal.

Names changed to protect identity.

Notes to editors

[1] https://reliefweb.int/report/venezuela-bolivarian-republic/earthquakes-venezuela-situation-report-30-23-july-2026-time-0900-pm

[2] https://www.ifrc.org/press-release/ifrc-one-month-after-venezuelas-earthquakes-health-care-psychosocial-support-and-safe

[3] https://globalprotectioncluster.org/latest/publications/venezuela-protection-situation-update-3-earthquake-response

MIL OSI

Venezuela Earthquake: One month update – MSF

LiveNews Publisher — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 03:56:37 +0000

Source: Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF)

24 July 2026 – One month following the devastating earthquakes, Venezuela continues to grapple with the aftermath, facing profound grief as thousands mourn the loss of family, friends, and everything they owned.

This sudden natural disaster that affected particularly the coastal state of La Guaira, near Caracas, has transitioned into a complex, protracted crisis characterised by massive population displacement, severe infrastructural damage, and deep psychological trauma. In La Guaira and Caracas, the urgent needs include access to clean water, adequate shelter, mental health care, and protection.

The official death toll has reached 5,398, with 16,740 individuals injured, 17,907 displaced, and 6,462 rescued from the rubble. The structural devastation is staggering; 190 buildings have officially collapsed, while over 895 structures, including schools, vital public infrastructure, and hospitals, have suffered severe damage and are at risk of collapse.

Thousands are currently residing in makeshift displacement sites or sleeping in tents adjacent to their damaged homes. In Maiquetía (La Guaira), approximately 3,000 individuals are camping on the pavement directly in front of 20 severely damaged and unstable buildings. Similarly, in Avenida Bolívar (Caracas), another 3,000 individuals are living on the streets, stripped of proper shelter and basic services.

In response to the crisis, Médecins Sans Frontières/Doctors Without Borders (MSF) currently operates four mobile clinics providing primary healthcare, mental health support, health promotion, and water and sanitation activities across the most affected areas: three in La Guaira (Maiquetía, Catia La Mar, and Tamaguarena) and one in Caracas (Avenida Bolívar). These clinics offer primary healthcare, clean water, and emergency mental health interventions to families who have lost everything. In the past month, MSF medical teams have conducted 2,217 medical consultations.

The injuries sustained extend beyond physical; families still searching for loved ones beneath the rubble, along with the shock of sudden homelessness and displacement, have given rise to a psychological crisis. To address these mental health challenges, MSF has integrated mental health support into its mobile response, providing: 113 individual mental health, 323 group therapy sessions, 1,402 psycho-education sessions. With local infrastructure severely compromised, MSF teams are implementing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) intervention:

Installed a 5,000-liter water bladder in Playa Verde to serve as a reliable clean water source.
Initiated the ongoing chlorination of four primary water distribution sites alongside continuous water purification monitoring.
Distributed 5,000 bottles of emergency drinking water to families living on the streets.

Over the past month, MSF has donated approximately 8.5 tons of emergency medical supplies. This extensive logistical effort has supported immediate, life-saving operations and addressed the healthcare needs of an estimated 10,000 patients. MSF teams continue to provide disinfectants and infection prevention and control materials not only to active hospitals but also to overwhelmed local morgues, ensuring safety, hygiene, and dignity amid unprecedented loss.

MSF is an international, medical, humanitarian organisation that delivers medical care to people in need, regardless of their origin, religion, or political affiliation. MSF Australia was established in 1995 and is one of 24 international MSF sections committed to delivering medical humanitarian assistance to people in crisis. Every year more than 120 Australians and New Zealanders go on assignment with Médecins Sans Frontières working as: doctors, midwives, psychologists, laboratory technicians, human resource/finance coordinators, pharmacists, mental health specialists and logisticians. MSF delivers medical care based on need alone and operates independently of government, religion or economic influence and irrespective of race, religion or gender. For more information visit msf.org.au

MIL OSI

From Mexico to Hong Kong, Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK

MIL OSI — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 02:04:31 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – As the media industry becomes increasingly global and interconnected, students are seeking education that spans cultures and markets. For Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez, a scholarship recipient from Mexico, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) offers a platform to do exactly that.

Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK

Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Global Media

Currently enrolled in CUHK’s Global Communication programme, Jose is part of a growing wave of international students choosing Hong Kong for its strategic role as a cultural and commercial gateway between East and West. Long fascinated by Asian culture and influenced by family ties to the city, he was drawn to its unique position as a bridge between cultures. “I wanted to become a local with time and create bridges between Mexico and Hong Kong,” he said.

A school adviser first introduced him to CUHK as a strong option, and while he also considered universities in Canada and the United Kingdom, Hong Kong remained his first choice. Receiving the CUHK University Admission Scholarship confirmed his decision.

Academic Excellence and Creative Exploration

Jose’s experience in the Global Communication programme has met his expectations and more. What stands out most to him are the creative courses, which give students hands-on access to professional media equipment and the freedom to experiment. “Being encouraged to explore creativity by some professors has led me to discover new sides of myself,” he noted.

Outside the classroom, Jose has embraced life in Hong Kong with enthusiasm. From cultural events and student society gatherings to exploring local food streets, he has found the city lively and inspiring. The campus MTR station also makes it easy to travel to Shatin, Hong Kong Island, and even the Shenzhen border, adding to the convenience of student life.

A Creative Career Taking Shape in Hong Kong

Looking ahead, Jose hopes to take part in a semester exchange and a media production internship to further strengthen his practical skills. His post-graduation plans remain open, with possibilities in both Mexico’s rapidly growing entertainment industry and Hong Kong’s dynamic market.

For international students considering their options, Jose’s message is clear: CUHK offers academic quality, financial support, and a valuable foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

CUHK’s Global Communication Programme

CUHK’s Global Communication programme prepares students for an evolving media landscape by combining communication studies with a guaranteed overseas exchange and a curriculum built around real-world experience.

Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to a 4K-UHD Virtual Set Studio, Digital Radio Studio, and VR Lab.
Guaranteed Global Exchange: One semester at a partner university in Asia, Europe, or North America.
Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through journalism projects and overseas study tours.
International Classroom: A 1:1 ratio of international to local students with all courses taught in English.

For more information about CUHK’s Global Communication programme, visit https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/programme/gcomn/

Hashtag: #CUHK

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES: Pregnant Women and New Mothers Face Growing Health Risks as about 130 Babies Born Every Day

LiveNews Publisher — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 06:24:08 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Thousands of pregnant women and new mothers require access to healthcare, nutritious food and safe shelter one month after two devastating earthquakes damaged health facilities and displaced about 21,000 people in Venezuela, Save the Children said.

T he UN estimates there are 36,700 pregnant women who have been affected by the earthquakes, 4,000 of whom are expected to give birth in the next month, equivalent to about 130 babies born every day.[1]

The twin earthquakes, of magnitude 7.2 and 7.5, struck on 24 June, destroying and damaging dozens of health facilities and disrupting essential maternal and child healthcare services. Women have told Save the Children staff that some obstetricians and paediatricians were among the over 5,000 people killed in the disaster, leaving families uncertain where to seek care for themselves and their children.

In La Guaira, which was hardest hit, the main maternity hospital remains closed and, while basic care is available, complicated cases must be referred to Caracas.

Many pregnant women, caregivers, and their children who lost their homes are now living in temporary shelters where access to antenatal care, nutritious food , and clean water and sanitation is limited. At the same time, many are coping with the traumatic loss of loved ones.

Research shows that high levels of stress and anxiety during pregnancy may affect a baby’s brain development and immune system, increasing the risk of preterm birth or even miscarriage. Babies exposed to elevated maternal stress during pregnancy may also show more fear, sadness and distress at three months of age than those born to mothers who experienced less stress. Limited access to nutritious food, uncontrolled infant formula donations, and reduced antenatal care during pregnancy also heightens the risk of malnutrition in infants and increases the risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.

Yohana, – 23, who is pregnant with her first child and relies on glasses to see, was alone at home in one of the hardest-hit parts of La Guaira when the earthquake hit, causing her building to collapse. She managed to escape by breaking a window, although she could not get her glasses until later, adding to her panic.

“I went out barefoot, just wearing my house clothes. I lost my glasses…I couldn’t see, or at least I could see less.

“When the whole house collapsed, I was scared. At that moment, I didn’t feel that I had hurt [my stomach], but with all the chaos, I wasn’t sure if I’d gotten hurt or not. But honestly, all I was thinking about was getting out alive.”

Yohana received a healthcare checkup at a mobile clinic run by Save the Children partner, Paluz in La Guaira.

Meanwhile, newborn babies and infants living in sodden tents are falling sick from damp conditions or are at risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue during the country’s rainy season. Some mothers living in temporary shelters say that along with feeling stressed and anxious, being able to buy nappies and other essential supplies for their babies is challenging.

Yennifer-, 23, who is breastfeeding her four-month-old baby, Carmen- , struggled to take care of her own health after the earthquake. Carmen’s paediatrician was also killed in the earthquake.

“I couldn’t eat and I had a lot of headaches. I couldn’t sleep because it felt like I was shaking. It was difficult for me, and any movement put me on alert and I felt very uneasy.”

“Since [Carmen’s-] paediatrician passed away, that’s a big worry, because now how am I going to find someone to treat her because there’s no money either,” Yennifer- said. “Everything feels overwhelming and I can’t rest”.

Fatima Andraca, Save the Children’s Country Director in Venezuela said:

“Every day about 130 babies are born to mothers in Venezuela whose lives have been turned upside down by the earthquake and who are dealing with huge amounts of stress. Many are bringing their newborns into a world of uncertainty, displacement and disrupted healthcare services.

“We’re hearing worrying reports of young babies becoming sick in camps where families are sleeping on damp mattresses exposed to rain and poor sanitation. At the same time, women are grieving loved ones, coping with trauma and worrying about where they can access healthcare after losing trusted obstetricians and paediatricians.

“Pregnancy and caring for a newborn can be challenging under any circumstances. No mother should have to navigate those challenges while living in a tent, mourning losses and worrying about whether her child can access the healthcare they need.”

Save the Children said it is imperative that pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, and their children, are prioritised in the humanitarian response and recovery in Venezuela through urgent coordination, adequate funding, and targeted actions.

Save the Children is calling on international governments, donors and humanitarian partners to ensure that pregnant and breastfeeding women affected by the earthquake have continuous access to quality antenatal, delivery and postnatal care, skilled infant and young child feeding support, nutritious food, safe shelter, clean water and sanitation, and essential newborn supplies, both now and in the months ahead.

Save the Children is on the ground in Venezuela, working with authorities and local partners providing primary healthcare through mobile clinics, distributing hygiene kits, clean water and essential supplies. Save the Children is also supporting parents and caregivers to access services for small and nutritionally at-risk babies under six months to help them survive and thrive, including nutrition assessments for babies, and breastfeeding counselling and mental health support for caregivers. The organisation is also exploring potential support to maternal and paediatric services in coordination with national health authorities.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Save the Children is raising much-needed funds to support the response in Venezuela. To donate, go to: Venezuela Earthquakes Appeal.

-Names changed for anonymity.

MIL OSI

1win Breaks World Record by Bringing Football to the Top of Bogotá

MIL OSI — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 08:01:00 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

BOGOTÁ, COLOMBIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 July 2026 – 1win, in partnership with Colombian football creators FUTTO, has officially set a world record by organizing the highest football match ever played on top of a building. The achievement was certified by World Record Certification (WRCAC) following a 3×3 match held on the helipad of Torre Colpatria, 196 meters above the streets of Bogotá.

Inspired by the upbeats of the 2026 Football World Cup, “Fútbol en lo más alto” by 1win (“Football at the Highest Point”) transformed one of Bogotá’s most recognizable landmarks – Torre Colpatria – into a football pitch suspended 196 meters high above the city. The game became a genuine celebration of football culture and the FIFA World Cup finals.

The record-setting match, brought by 1win, featured six Colombian football creators known on Instagram as @alexanderr_0.0, @pablosierra.10, @fory_11_, @micrerosportoficial, @piqui05_, and @futsala.ok. The match was officiated by street football referee @aditstreetsoccer.

“At 1win, we believe the most memorable moments happen when ambition meets creativity. ‘Fútbol en lo más alto’ was about taking the game to a completely new level. We aimed at celebrating the biggest football event of the decade — Football World Cup — and creating an experience that fans and, now, the record books will remember,” commented the owner of 1win on X.com.

The initiative highlights 1win’s approach to creating large-scale entertainment experiences that combine sport, culture, and innovative ideas. By turning an iconic city landmark into the venue for an officially certified world record, the brand continues to develop memorable activations designed to engage football fans around the world.

‘Fútbol en lo más alto’ at a Glance

World Record: Highest altitude football match played on top of a building
Location: Helipad of Torre Colpatria, Bogotá, Colombia
Height: 196 meters
Format: 3×3 football match
Certifier: World Record Certification
Partner: FUTTO
Sponsor: 1win

Hashtag: #1win

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Animal Welfare – Help Them Escape This Future: Octopus Farming Ban Campaign Goes Huge in Wellington

LiveNews Publisher — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 00:31:55 +0000

Source: Animals Aotearoa

177 organisations worldwide stand with New Zealand against factory farming of highly sentient animals.
Giant octopuses have appeared on billboards overnight, with a key message: Ban Octopus Factory Farming.

The billboards come after advocacy charity Animals Aotearoa wrote to every New Zealand political party, requesting that they include a commitment to prohibit commercial octopus farming in their policy platforms for the upcoming election. The letter, cosigned by the Aquatic Animal Alliance coalition of 177 organisations across 75 countries – including NZ-based SPCA and SAFE – points to scientific evidence that octopuses are highly sentient animals with advanced cognitive abilities. Also highlighted are the absence of validated welfare safeguards, lack of humane slaughter methods, and environmental concerns about farming carnivorous species dependent on animal protein.

“Octopus factory farming is a bad investment in every sense,” says Marianne Macdonald, Executive Director of Animals Aotearoa. “Octopuses are sentient wonders. With three hearts, blue blood, and minds that dream, they navigate their ocean world with intelligence that rivals our own. They solve puzzles, navigate elaborate mazes, use tools, recognise individual humans, and even decorate their dens with shells. These are creatures to be in awe of, not to exploit in sordid factory farms.”

Steve Abel of The Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand responded positively to the call to ban octopus farming, “We are concerned about efforts to introduce octopus farming to Aotearoa and support prohibiting octopus farming before this harmful practice can be established”, adding, “Octopus are extraordinary species and farming them is totally unacceptable”. Karen Singleton, Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ said, “Progress isn’t measured by what we can commercialise, but by the wisdom to know who should be left in the ocean. We already ask billions of animals to pay the price of economic growth. We don’t need to add octopuses to that list.”

“New Zealand has a unique opportunity to prevent the suffering associated with octopus factory farming before this industry begins to operate,” said Catalina López Salazar, Director of the Aquatic Animal Alliance. “Around the world, governments are increasingly recognizing that these highly intelligent, curious, and sentient animals cannot be raised humanely in intensive farming systems. By acting now, New Zealand can demonstrate global leadership in protecting animal welfare and set an example for other countries considering this emerging industry.”

Octopus aquaculture – a new form of intensive farming still in the research phase – would cause extensive harm. The New Zealand Government has already granted $1 million of public funds to the University of Auckland to advance this new form of exploitation. But because the octopus farming industry has not yet been established, there is a rare window of opportunity to prevent it from taking hold.

“We showed the octopus reaching out to show how often they’ve sought to connect with people,” Macdonald explains. “We also wanted to highlight that octopuses are escape artists of the highest calibre. These animals can fit through the tiniest of gaps, the size of their beak. But they need our help to escape a future in factory farms.”

A specially commissioned animation by Auckland-based artist Timothy Armstrong provides a glimpse of the risk octopus farming poses. Based on an industry research report, it features Octopus tetricus, the native octopus studied for exploitation in Aotearoa.

“In Aotearoa, the petition calling for a ban on octopus farming has gathered 7,770 petition signatures so far. New Zealanders are making clear they want their country at the forefront of this progress”, says Macdonald.

The campaign reflects a growing global movement. Washington State and California have already banned octopus farming. Legislation has been introduced in Mexico and Chile.

The petition is being officially launched at an event in Wellington, next Tuesday, 28 July. Sign at www.animalsaotearoa.org/stop-octopus-farming/
About Animals Aotearoa
New Zealand’s Animals Aotearoa is a registered charity whose mission is to improve the well-being of farmed animals and end their suffering. They work to protect the welfare of aquatic animals, with a particular focus on preventing octopus factory farming. They also improve the lives of chickens bred for meat by securing welfare commitments from food businesses and raising public awareness of the suffering caused by the way chickens are bred and farmed.

About the Aquatic Animal Alliance
Founded by the Aquatic Life Institute (ALI), the Aquatic Animal Alliance is a coalition of more than 190 advocacy organisations across 75 countries dedicated to improving the welfare of aquatic animals within the global food system. ALI is an international non-profit organisation that works on advancing aquatic animal welfare in both aquaculture and wild capture fisheries globally. They work with certifiers, nonprofits, academic institutions, industry stakeholders, governments, and the public to improve the welfare of aquatic animals.

Notes

Petition to ban octopus farming
Washington State and California have already banned octopus farming; seven more U.S. states are pursuing legislation against octopus farming, including Hawaii and New York, together with Mexico and Chile.
Information about octopus farming
The petition is being officially launched at an event in Wellington on Tuesday, 28th July.

MIL OSI

Phancy’s Token Factory Shines at WAIC 2026, Accelerating AI 2.0 from Technology to Real-World Industrial Applications

MIL OSI — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:34:13 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – The four-day World Artificial Intelligence Conference 2026 (WAIC 2026) concluded successfully in Shanghai. During the event, Phancy showcased its full-stack AI cloud service platform and real-world industry applications, highlighting its AI infrastructure, model platforms, and commercialization cases across multiple sectors.

At the heart of the showcase was Phancy’s “Token Factory”, which demonstrated a complete closed-loop from technological innovation and engineering implementation to industrial empowerment. The exhibit received widespread acclaim from industry leaders, government and enterprise representatives, international guests, and major media outlets. A number of high-profile guests visited the booth, sparking in-depth discussions on innovation opportunities and development trends in the AI 2.0 era.

Building the “Token Factory”: Full-Stack Capabilities Driving Scalable Industrial Adoption

At WAIC 2026, Phancy centered its presentation on its full-stack AI cloud service platform, demonstrating the “Token Factory” and turning the vision of scalable, reusable and deployable AI productivity into tangible industrial capabilities.

At the infrastructure and foundational layer, Phancy’s HAMi (virtual heterogeneous GPU management and orchestration platform) and ModelHub XC (opensource model adaption and optimization platform) effectively addresses key industry pain points — including localized deployment of large models, efficient computing resource scheduling and large‑scale implementation. These solutions provide a solid foundation for industrialized AI production and strengthen the Token Factory’s core advantages in efficiency, stability, and scalability. Both technologies attracted significant attention at the event, drawing government officials, industry experts, and enterprise clients for demonstrations, consultations, and partnership discussions.

Core Production and Intelligent Applications

At the core production and application layer, Phancy highlighted its AGI platform Phanthy Pantheon and the self-evolving AI modeling tool PhanthyModel, both of which significantly lower the barriers to building advanced models. On the delivery side, the company introduced its cross-platform embodied agent framework PhanthyMotus, the AI coding agent PhanthyCode, and the AI-powered film production platform PhanthyMovie. These solutions enable seamless integration of AI capabilities into real-world operations across a wide range of industries.

From computing orchestration and model development to intelligent agent deployment, Phancy continues to connect computing resources, AI models, developers, and industry ecosystems, driving the stable and efficient transformation of AI technologies into practical, scalable industrial productivity.

Internationally Recognized as a Trusted Global Industrial AI Solution

In addition to its technology showcase, Phancy received significant international recognition at WAIC 2026. At the Global Industrial AI Cooperation Forum, in the presence of high-level guests including the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Brazil’s Minister of Public Service Management and Innovation, and academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Phancy was selected as a “Global Flagship Case in Industrial AI” and named among the first batch of “Trusted Global Industrial AI Solutions.”

This prestigious honor validates Phancy’s technological reliability, compliance and real‑world implementation capabilities in industrial AI, and marks strong international endorsement of the company’s AI engineering and commercialization strengths.

Building an Open Industry Ecosystem and Entering a New Era of AI 2.0

The successful conclusion of WAIC 2026 was not only a celebration of technological achievements but also a powerful platform for deep industry collaboration. As AI moves into the era of large-scale application, Phancy will continue to pursue technological innovation and open collaboration, further strengthening its full-stack AI cloud service system.

Looking ahead, Phancy will work closely with global developers, industry partners, and clients to bring the “Token Factory” into more real-world scenarios, making AI a true driver of industrial upgrading and high‑quality productivity.

Hashtag: #PhancyGroup

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Prudential launches indexed universal life plan to meet demand for flexible legacy planning solutions

MIL OSI — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:05:43 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

PRUApex Legacy Index II gives affluent and high-net-worth individuals greater flexibility to build, protect and transfer wealth to the next generation with premium allocation across multiple indices including a gold-equity index; it offers flexible payout options and choice of premium terms

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – Prudential Singapore (“Prudential”) has launched PRUApex Legacy Index II, an indexed universal life plan (IUL) designed for affluent and high-net-worth customers seeking more options to grow and preserve their legacy and structure wealth transfer for the next generation.

Customers can customise how their legacy grows and is passed on, with multiple index allocations, death benefit payout structures, and premium terms. They are also supported by an additional crediting rate of 0.25% p.a. for indices with uncapped returns^[1] (i.e. volatility-controlled indices), and a one-time bonus crediting rate of up to 6.50%^[2] on total account value after the end of premium term for a fully paid policy on multipay premium payment term.

Ms Toni Fung, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer, Prudential Singapore, said: “Affluent and high-net-worth individuals are increasingly looking for legacy planning solutions that will evolve with their changing life priorities, giving them greater certainty, control and confidence over how their legacy is passed on to the next generation. Today, when they want to make any changes, it means having to purchase new policies or restructure existing portfolios. PRUApex Legacy Index II addresses this need for flexibility, allowing customers to build a resilient legacy through diversified growth potential across multiple indices. It also helps to future-proof their plans with flexible death benefit payout structures.”

Diversified growth potential across markets and asset classes
PRUApex Legacy Index II allows customers to diversify and allocate premiums across a mix of indices, offering broader market exposure across the United States (US), Europe, and emerging markets (e.g. China, South Korea and Brazil), as well as a gold-equity index. They have access to indices with both capped and uncapped returns (i.e. volatility-controlled indices that have no cap on potential gains^[1]) that meet their legacy planning needs, and the flexibility to balance stability and growth potential based on their risk appetite.

Ms Fung added: “We were the first insurer in Singapore to introduce a volatility-controlled index (i.e. index with uncapped returns^[1]) in an indexed universal life plan two years ago. With PRUApex Legacy Index II, we are expanding the range of index options available to customers, giving them more ways to grow and protect their legacy through familiar indices with capped returns, such as the S&P 500, and indices that provide higher stability through their volatility-controlled design while offering uncapped return^[1] potential.”

Customers who prefer a standard market index can opt for indices such as the S&P 500^[3][8], MSCI Emerging Markets^[3][8], and EURO STOXX 50^[3][8]. If they are looking for indices with uncapped returns^[1] that provide a stable, pre-determined level of risk, they can choose from volatility-controlled indices including the S&P 500 FC^[4][8], UBS MASTR^[5][8], Barclays Shiller Allocator^[6][8] and MSCI World Golden Compass^[7][8].

Future-proofing legacy planning with flexible design
PRUApex Legacy Index II gives policyholders more flexibility over how death benefits are paid out. Instead of receiving the full amount as a single lump sum, beneficiaries can receive payouts in one lump sum, or in yearly instalments of 2 to 10 years to provide continued support for their loved ones.

Customers can choose from single-premium and multipay options for up to 20 years. This gives them more choices based on their liquidity needs, legacy planning priorities, and preferred pace of premium commitment.

For the Fixed Account, there is a first-year Crediting Rate of 4.20% p.a. & Guaranteed Minimum Crediting Rate of 2.00% p.a.

Affluent and high-net-worth customers can kickstart their legacy planning with PRUApex Legacy Index II with a sum assured as low as US$500,000.

For more information on PRUApex Legacy Index II, please visit: https://www.prudential.com.sg/products/legacy-planning/pruapex-legacy-index-ii

[1] Subject to prevailing Participation Rate. Please refer to Product Summary for details.

[2] The one-time Bonus Crediting Rate amount is based on the policy’s multipay premium term.

[3] Subject to a Cap Rate of 9.0%, 10.5% and 11.0% for S&P 500 Index, Euro Stoxx 50 Index and MSCI Emerging Markets Index respectively which are not guaranteed. Guaranteed Minimum Cap Rate of 3.0% applies.

[4] Refers to the S&P 500 FC TCA 0.50% Decrement Index (USD) ER. Guaranteed Minimum Participation Rate of 40% applies.

[5] Refers to the UBS Multi Asset Strategy Tactical Rotation Index. Guaranteed Minimum Participation Rate of 70% applies

[6] Refers to the Shiller Barclays CAPE® Allocator 6 Dynamic Risk Control Index Guaranteed Minimum Participation Rate of 65% applies.

[7] Refers to the MSCI World Titans Golden Compass Select Index. Guaranteed Minimum Participation Rate of 35% applies

[8] Cap Rate, Participation Rate, Guaranteed Minimum Cap Rate and Guaranteed Minimum Participation Rate are subject to change.

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Hashtag: #PrudentialSingapore #Prudential #PRUApexLegacyIndexII #Product #Insurance #LegacyPlanning #Affluent #HNW

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

BRICS Competition Authorities Establish Task Force to Study Global Grain Trade

MIL OSI — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 10:36:59 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2026 – Competition authorities from BRICS countries have established a task force to conduct a joint sector inquiry into the global grain trade, marking a new step in cooperation on competition policy across international agricultural markets.

The decision was announced during the discussion “Competition Development in Global Grain Trade: Joint Efforts of BRICS Countries”, organized by the BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre on the sidelines of the 23rd Session of the UNCTAD Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Competition Law and Policy in Geneva.

The event included a closed meeting of BRICS competition authorities and a public panel featuring researchers, academics and representatives of international organizations.

Discussions focused on competition in global grain markets, the growing influence of financialization and digitalization across agricultural value chains, and policy tools to improve market transparency. Participants also reviewed the findings of a joint report prepared by the BRICS Competition Centre and UNCTAD (link: https://www.bricscompetition.org/ru/grainreport) , first presented at the 9th BRICS International Competition Conference in Cape Town in 2025.

A coordinated market study

The central outcome of the meeting was the establishment of a BRICS task force that will coordinate a joint sector inquiry into global grain trade within the framework of the BRICS Working Group on Food Markets.

The task force will be co-chaired by Diogo Thomson, President of Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE), and Mahmoud Momtaz, Chairperson of the Egyptian Competition Authority (ECA).

Thomson welcomed the initiative and proposed making competition in global grain trade a key topic at the next BRICS International Competition Conference, scheduled to take place in Brazil in 2027.

“Brazil is the only jurisdiction that has launched an investigation into digital grain trading platforms such as Covantis. I therefore strongly welcome this sector inquiry, which will help us better understand the impact of digitalization across grain supply chains and the risks it may create for competition. I also support using the BRICS Competition Centre as the coordination platform for this work,” he said.

Momtaz said one of the main conclusions of the BRICS-UNCTAD report was the significant role speculative activity plays in global grain markets.

“One of the key findings of the report presented by the BRICS Competition Centre is the extent to which speculative factors influence global grain trade. The most effective response is greater market transparency. We should not accept a situation where farmers receive only a small share of the value they create while consumers in Egypt pay excessively high prices for bread. Where does this margin accumulate, and who ultimately benefits from it? These are the questions our sector inquiry should answer,” he said.

He also proposed that the task force develop a common AI-powered price monitoring tool covering BRICS grain markets.

“Such a tool would provide the information needed for market analysis and become an important complement to the joint sector inquiry,” Momtaz added.

From analysis to policy recommendations

Hardin Ratshisusu, Deputy Commissioner of the Competition Commission of South Africa, said the study should contribute to the implementation of the BRICS Grain Exchange initiative endorsed by BRICS leaders in the Kazan Declaration (2024) and the Rio de Janeiro Declaration (2025).

“The proposal to establish a BRICS Grain Exchange should become one of the key recommendations of the sector inquiry as an innovative mechanism for restoring competition in global grain trade. Our objective is not merely to identify market problems but to develop practical recommendations that can ultimately be submitted to the leaders of our countries,” he said.

Alexey Ivanov, Director of the BRICS Competition Law and Policy Centre, said competition authorities should play a central role in designing the institutional framework of the future exchange.

“The BRICS Grain Exchange should not become another formal institution. It must serve as a practical mechanism for improving competition and market transparency. Competition authorities are uniquely positioned to identify the institutional features that will allow the exchange to achieve these objectives,” he said.

Growing international role

Frédéric Jenny, Chairmanof the OECD Competition Committee, said the initiative demonstrated the growing international role of BRICS competition authorities.

“This project illustrates how BRICS competition authorities are becoming drivers of the global competition agenda. In the past, they largely followed the lead of developed jurisdictions. That is no longer the case. There are very few examples worldwide of such close cooperation between competition authorities. This applies not only to joint market studies, but also to enforcement cooperation and competition advocacy. Rather than acting individually, you have found both the mechanisms and the political will to work together,” Jenny said.

The task force will now begin developing the methodology and work plan for the joint inquiry. Its findings are expected to provide policy recommendations aimed at strengthening competition, improving transparency in global grain trade, and supporting future BRICS initiatives in agricultural markets.

Hashtag: #BRICSCompetition

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Oxfam – Rich countries exaggerating “true value” of climate finance by around $100 billion

LiveNews Publisher — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:22:34 +0000

Source: Oxfam Aotearoa

Rich countries have again inflated the “true value” of the climate finance they provide to low- and middle-income countries, overstating it by around $100 billion in 2024, according to new analysis by Oxfam. This exceeds the $88 billion by which climate finance was overstated in 2022.

Governments reported mobilizing nearly $137 billion in climate finance in 2024 to help Global South countries cut emissions and cope with the worsening impacts of climate breakdown. While $106 billion of the reported amount was provided as public finance, $69 billion (65 percent) was delivered as loans. Many of these loans are provided on market terms, requiring little or no financial effort from rich countries while increasing the debt burdens of countries in the Global South.

Oxfam estimates that the “true value” of the climate finance provided by rich countries in 2024 is between $33 billion and $45 billion, equivalent to no more than one-third of the amount reported. Only $15 billion to $18 billion was allocated to adaptation.

The findings come just weeks after the Bonn climate talks, where rich governments refused to strengthen the commitment they made at COP30 in Brazil to triple adaptation finance by 2035. Oxfam estimates that even tripling adaptation finance would meet only one-third of poorer countries’ adaptation needs.

Oxfam calculated the “true value” of climate finance by estimating the grant equivalents of climate-related loans and other non-grant instruments, rather than at their face value, in order to gauge rich countries’ real financial effort. Oxfam accounts for the difference between loans at market rate and those at preferential terms, while also considering the overly generous claims about the climate-related significance of these funds.

“New Zealand is outperforming other richer countries by giving all our climate funding as grants, not loans,” said Oxfam Aotearoa Policy and Advocacy Lead Nick Henry. “New Zealand’s climate grants are an essential lifeline for our Pacific neighbours and we need to keep our promise to increase the funding over time.”

“Once again, the richest and most polluting countries are inflating the value of the climate finance they provide, creating the illusion of solidarity while delivering far less than they claim,” said Oxfam Climate Policy Lead Mariana Paoli. “Instead of helping poorer countries withstand a crisis they did little to cause, rich countries are pushing them deeper into debt through loans, many offered on profitable commercial terms. It is a cruel irony: those most responsible pay less -and even make a profit- while those least responsible pay more.”

“What is needed is public, grant-based climate finance at the scale the climate crisis demands -not accounting tricks, not loans that worsen debt, and not empty promises. Grants are lifelines that enable countries to adapt to a changing climate, cut emissions, protect lives, and respond to devastating loss and damage. At COP31, rich countries need to drastically increase grant-based climate finance and finally deliver on the commitments they have made.”

Notes

Download Oxfam’s methodology note. Calculations are based on original research by INKA Consult and Steve Cutts using the latest OECD climate-related development finance datasets for 2023 and 2024. Figures are rounded to the nearest 0.5 billion.

According to the OECD, rich countries say they mobilized $136.7 billion in climate finance for Global South countries in 2024.

In 2022, rich countries overstated the “true value” of their climate finance by up to $88 billion.

According to the UNEP Adaptation Gap Report 2025, the estimated adaptation finance needs of low- and middle-income countries range from $310 billion to $365 billion per year by 2035.

At the Bonn climate talks last month, rich governments refused to strengthen the commitment they made six months ago at COP30 in Belém, Brazil, to triple adaptation finance, which Oxfam estimates would still provide only one-third of the finance needed to meet the needs of poorer countries.

MIL OSI

Save the Children – “They’re flinching at the slightest noise” – Children’s mental wellbeing at stake two weeks on from devastating Venezuela earthquakes

LiveNews Publisher — Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:22:42 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Children are showing signs of mental distress in the wake of last month’s devastating earthquakes in Venezuela, with parents and psychologists reporting children flinching at the slightest noise, finding it difficult to sleep, and showing more signs of irritability and aggression.

Children who have undergone such stressful experiences will often show their stress through behaviour changes and need support to recover, said Save the Children.

Save the Children has established safe spaces for children within the earthquake zone where families can bring their children to play and regain a sense of normalcy and strengthen their resilience, while also being assessed for more severe psychosocial distress or other protection concerns.

Counsellors at these spaces have reported some children are showing signs of acute distress including anger, while children as young as seven or eight are saying they are scared of what the future holds. Some parents have told our staff that their children now become anxious when they see the cracks in the ground, while others are struggling to sleep at night and are flinching when they hear loud sounds such as rumbles of thunder.

Some older children told Save the Children staff that they had to protect and rescue younger family members while they escaped from the earthquake, despite feeling deeply scared themselves, and continue to carry this anxiety with them.

Around 1.8 million people including about 680,000 children have been impacted by the earthquakes that struck Venezuela two weeks ago, many of whom witnessed their friends and family members die before their eyes, with mental and health and psychosocial support identified by the UN and NGOs as one of the key needs facing affected people.

Children who have experienced extremely distressing events are at risk of long-lasting impacts for months or even years to come unless they receive mental health and psychosocial support at the onset of the distressful event, said Save the Children.

Two-year-old Daisy- was with her parents when the earthquake struck their home in Caracas. When Daisy stopped eating after the earthquake, her mother Yusmary-, 24, brought her to Save the Children’s mobile health clinic, run by local partner Paluz. Yusmary said that Daisy will now only breastfeed for comfort and will only eat a few spoonfuls of solid food if she is extremely hungry.

Yusmary said: “Before the earthquake, [Daisy] used to eat normally, just fine. But after the earthquake, she became like this. When she sees cracks on the floor, she starts crying and screaming. Then she calls me and says, “Mom, look at the floor!”

Isabel-,

“In our safe spaces where children come to play and receive support, we are seeing children who are scared about what the future holds. They are telling us things such as ‘my parents worked so hard to have a house, and now we have nothing.’ Children as young as seven or eight are deeply worried about how they’re going to rebuild their lives.

“Our safe spaces allow children to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment which is vital since some children are telling our teams that they are reluctant to express their fears at home, as they see their parents and caregivers upset and worried”.

Fatima Andraca, Save the Children’s Country Director in Venezuela said:

“Many children in Venezuela have experienced extremely distressing events that no child should ever have to see. They have witnessed their friends and family members die before their eyes, while others continue to live with the uncertainty of not knowing where their loved ones are. Thousands of children are sheltering in tents in the streets where their daily routines and sense of security have been ripped away.

“Protection and psychosocial support are urgent priorities for children. With so many people dead, injured or missing, and so many families uprooted from their homes, children need both immediate and long-term support to ensure that this devastating disaster does not cause long lasting mental harm. With the right help, most children psychologically impacted by the earthquakes will eventually be able to recover.”

Save the Children is an independent, impartial child rights organisation, working in Venezuela since 2019. Since the humanitarian crisis started to rapidly deteriorate a few years ago, Save the Children has been scaling up its response through local partners to support the increasing number of children in need.

-Names changed for anonymity.

About Save the Children NZ:

Save the Children is responding and working urgently with teams and partners to assess needs and support affected children and families.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Save the Children is raising much-needed funds to support the response. To donate, go to: Venezuela Earthquakes Appeal.

MIL OSI

Midea Group and Hutchison Ports Sign MoU

MIL OSI — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:34:41 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

At Shenzhen Port Global Supply Chain High-Quality Development Conference 2026
Unlocking Global Network Synergies to Build a Stable and Efficient Supply Chain

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 July 2026 – At the Shenzhen Port Global Supply Chain High-Quality Development Conference 2026, Midea Group (Midea), the global smart home and technology giant, and Hutchison Port Holdings Limited (Hutchison Ports), the world’s leading port investor, developer, and operator, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Guided by the shared vision of “Benefitting from New APEC Opportunities, Forging a New Future for Port and Shipping Cooperation”, the two parties will deepen their global strategic partnership over the next two years, combining their respective strengths and resources to co-create a highly resilient, efficient, and mutually beneficial global supply chain ecosystem.

Sam Shi, General Manager of the International Supply Chain Capability Center of Midea Group (first from left) and Ken Chou, Group Commercial Director of Hutchison Ports (first from right), signed the MoU under the witness of Lewis Fu, President of Midea International (second from left) and Eric Ip, Group Managing Director of Hutchison Ports (second from right).

In response to the evolving global trade landscape, these two industry leaders are actively collaborating to bring together their strategic assets and global networks. Midea’s expanding manufacturing footprint overseas seamlessly aligns with Hutchison Ports’ extensive network of global port resources, establishing a perfect synergy particularly in key markets such as Thailand, Indonesia, Egypt, Vietnam and Mexico. As Midea accelerates its international expansion, its global logistics requirements are experiencing robust growth. This partnership will secure global maritime logistics corridors for Midea, ensuring stable and efficient delivery. Concurrently, Midea’s continuously growing cargo volumes will significantly boost throughput across Hutchison Ports’ terminals, in turn attracting more international shipping routes to call at its facilities.

Lewis Fu, President of Midea International, said “Under our globalisation strategy, securing reliable logistics services is fundamental to Midea’s sustained business growth. We are delighted to deepen our collaboration with Hutchison Ports. Through practical initiatives, such as data integration and priority lanes during peak seasons, we can further enhance supply chain synergy and operational efficiency. This gives us full confidence in steadily achieving our global shipping target of 1.5 million TEUs by 2027.”

Eric Ip, Group Managing Director of Hutchison Ports, said “As a world-leading technology enterprise, Midea Group is an incredibly valued strategic partner for Hutchison Ports. Midea’s massive and rapidly growing export volumes will inject strong momentum into our terminals. By leveraging our high-efficiency operational standards, advanced digital capabilities, and tailored service frameworks, we will provide reliable logistical support for Midea’s global expansion, establishing a new benchmark for industry collaboration.”

Under the MoU, this deepened collaboration will initially be launched using Hutchison Ports’ Yantian International Container Terminals (YANTIAN) as a key strategic anchor point, focusing on the following areas:

Green Logistics and Digitalization Construction: Both parties will actively explore sustainable transport solutions that comply with local regulations and authorities. By integrating Midea’s business system with YANTIAN’s terminal operating system, they will achieve real-time information sharing and seamless workflow connectivity, significantly enhancing cargo handling and transport efficiency.

Port Operation Support: Addressing industry choke points such as peak-season logistical delays and capacity constraints, Hutchison Ports will open priority lanes for Midea during peak seasons. This will expedite the pick-up, return, and reloading of Midea’s cargo, ensuring highly efficient dispatch operations and reinforcing the stability of Midea’s supply chain.

Port Extension Services and Multimodal Transportation: The partners will jointly develop rail freight solutions connecting inland Chinese ports to YANTIAN, alongside comprehensive terminal logistics support including container yards, warehousing, and other value-added services.

Looking ahead, Midea and Hutchison Ports aim to progressively scale up the successful collaboration model established at YANTIAN across Hutchison Ports’ vast global network. Both parties will continue to strengthen their strategic alignment on a global level, jointly exploring innovative green and digital logistics solutions to set a new benchmark for smarter, greener, and more resilient global supply chains.

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Natural Disasters – Families displaced by Venezuela earthquakes at risk of infection amid water and sanitation shortages

LiveNews Publisher — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:08:11 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Hundreds of people displaced by Venezuela’s devastating earthquakes are sharing extremely limited toilets in informal camps, while others are risking returning to damaged homes to use bathrooms despite fears the buildings could collapse, Save the Children said.

Thousands of people sheltering in tents for the past 12 days are without regular access to safe drinking water, running water and toilets, putting them at risk of skin infections, diarrhea and gastrointestinal illnesses, with children particularly vulnerable. Women and girls are having to manage their periods without privacy, clean water and sanitary products.

In some informal camps, there are only one or two pre-existing toilets, some of which were damaged by the earthquake, shared among hundreds of displaced people. Many people are instead defecating and urinating outdoors, including in places where children play.

Ongoing thundershowers and high daytime temperatures risk exacerbating the spread of infections.

Gabriela-, 31, is a doctor working with Paluz, a Save the Children local partner running mobile health clinics for people affected by the earthquake.

Gabriela- said: “People are defecating out in the open, whether it’s in the woods, behind rubble, or right in the sea, which means that the water that they are bathing in is contaminated. This can cause skin diseases and eye irritations.”

Isabel-, 44, from Caracas was displaced with her husband and three children and now lives in a tent in front of the building in which the family used to live. Her oldest child, David-,9, was already suffering from a kidney problem. David’s condition worsened after the family had to leave their home due to the lack of toilets and poor sanitation in the camp. He received treatment at Paluz’s mobile clinic, supported by Save the Children.

“Mostly you just have to wait for someone else to go before you can go [to the toilet] too,” said Isabel. “What I see as a priority is having some portable toilets because bathrooms are a big issue.”

Informal camps are lacking a regular supply of drinking water, forcing families to buy bottled water or rely on donations with families rationing bottled water, fearing it will run out.

Gabriela- said: “Right now people are getting water donations in bottles. But as soon as that water runs out, people will resort to whatever water they can get and we don’t know if that water is filtered, chlorinated, or boiled.”

Some families in La Guaira, the area hardest-hit by the earthquake, are collecting untreated river water to drink, cook and wash, putting them at risk of gastrointestinal infections.

Fatima Andraca, Country Director for Save the Children in Venezuela said:

“With every passing day since the earthquakes in Venezuela, the toll this disaster is taking on children grows. Thousands of children are sheltering outside with no regular access to drinking water, toilets or showers, exposing them to a ticking time bomb of new health risks.

“Women and girls are having to manage their periods without privacy, clean water and sanitary products which is incredibly stressful.

“People in the earthquake affected areas urgently need safe drinking water and latrines and mobile health care if they do get sick.”

More than 3,340 people have been confirmed dead following the back-to-back 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck on 24 June, while about 680,000 children have been affected according to the UN. The earthquake also damaged waste management systems and water pipelines.

Save the Children is on the ground in Venezuela, working with authorities and local partners and is distributing hygiene kits and essential supplies, providing primary healthcare through mobile clinics, running safe spaces where children can access mental health support. The organisation will also be providing clean water and coordinated child protection services with key stakeholders.

Save the Children is an independent, impartial child rights organisation with our focus on the urgent humanitarian needs of children and families in Venezuela.

Save the Children has been working in Venezuela since 2018. Since the humanitarian crisis started to rapidly deteriorate a few years ago, Save the Children has been scaling its response through local partners to support the increasing number of children in need. Save the Children is delivering health, nutrition, education, child protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene and food security and livelihoods support.

-Names changed to protect identity

About Save the Children NZ:

Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.

Save the Children NZ currently supports international programmes in Fiji, Cambodia, Bangladesh, Laos, Nepal, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea. Areas of work include child protection, education and literacy, disaster risk reduction and climate adaptation, and alleviating child poverty.

MIL OSI

Transformation World 2026: The Best Data for Business AI

MIL OSI — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 03:07:05 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

New Kyano® product innovations: Agentic AI for data migrations and unstructured data solutions
Kyano Lorna supports customers with AI-powered project intelligence
SNP and Palantir accelerate secure SAP transformations through strategic partnership
High-profile keynotes from SAP’s Thomas Pfiester and Stefan Steinle, football legend and former Germany national team goalkeeper Oliver Kahn, and bestselling author Sebastian Wernicke

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 July 2026 – SNP welcomes a record 2,000 industry experts from around the world to their flagship event, Transformation World, on July 8-9 at Heidelberg’s SNP dome. Under the motto “Shaping Tomorrow,” the leading provider of software for AI-enabled digital transformation, automated data migration and data management in the SAP environment, will present an exceptionally diverse program. Attendees can look forward to three innovation focus areas led by SNP’s new agentic AI layer Kyano Lorna to refine data transformation on top of the proven Kyano platform. In addition, SNP will demonstrate how they will expand their capabilities with a newly built AI-powered solution through a new strategic partnership with Palantir. Existing partner CDQ will showcase how their solution, seamlessly integrated into Kyano, delivers automated data quality and governance for SAP master data. A third innovation focus area expands Kyano with capabilities to process unstructured data through the new solution, Kyano Oros.

Across more than 100 customer presentations, international organizations will demonstrate how they successfully manage transformation projects such as SAP Cloud ERP moves, data archiving, system decommissioning, and carve-outs and integrations.

“We are looking forward to the biggest and most innovative Transformation World. With new AI-powered solutions, intelligent agents and strong partnerships, we are bringing our vision for the next generation of SAP transformations to life. Together with our customers and partners, we are redefining how these projects will be delivered in the future. Our ambition is to equip organizations with the most intelligent tools to unlock their best data for the AI era,” said Jens Amail, CEO of SNP.

The Best Data for Business and Agentic AI

One of the highlights at the conference is a series of innovations for SNP’s Kyano software platform.

Under the theme “The Best Data for Business AI,” SNP will introduce the new solution Kyano Oros that further automates complex data migrations and extends the platform with the ability to process unstructured data. This type of data accounts for approximately 80% of enterprise data volumes and has largely remained inaccessible to traditional transformation tools. This provides a critical foundation for preparing enterprise data landscapes for modern AI applications. With Kyano Lorna, SNP introduces an agentic AI layer for their proven Kyano platform that amplifies and scales decades of transformation expertise. Available 24/7, able to communicate in multiple languages and continuously applying best practices, Lorna supports organizations throughout the entire transformation lifecycle. It helps reduce manual effort, accelerate decision-making and deliver real-time insights across every phase of a transformation project. By bringing decades of transformation knowledge and best practices directly into every project, the agentic AI layer also enables customers and partners to deliver SAP transformation projects with Kyano faster, more efficiently and with greater predictability.

New partnership accelerates secure AI-powered SAP transformations

Another highlight is the announcement of a strategic partnership with Palantir, a global leader in AI and data platforms. This partnership will deliver new AI-powered solutions to SNP’s customers. Further details will be announced during Transformation World.

High-profile customer presentations and keynote speakers

Renowned companies from a wide range of industries and regions will share their experiences with complex transformation projects. For the German-speaking market, presentations will include projects from BMW, Coop Pronto, Deutsche Bahn, E.ON, Festo, Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen, Nestlé,

Lufthansa, and Volkswagen. International companies taking the stage include Ferrero, TotalEnergies, Brazilian financial cooperative Sicredi, Chilean industrial group Sigdo Koppers, U.S.-based chemicals and medical technology company PerkinElmer, and Australian infrastructure services provider Ventia.

The event is supported by a total of 20 sponsoring partners. This year’s premium sponsors are Accenture, Deloitte, and IBM.

Keynote speakers Thomas Pfiester, Head of Customer Engagement & Adoption and member of the Extended Executive Board of SAP, and Stefan Steinle, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Customer Support at SAP, will provide insights into the latest developments in SAP transformations and innovation. Additional keynote speakers include bestselling author Sebastian Wernicke (“Data Inspired”), who will explain how data can be turned into successful business ideas, and Oliver Kahn, goalkeeper legend, entrepreneur and sports investor, who will discuss the relationship between peak performance, decision-making under pressure, and resilience.

“The combination of hands-on customer presentations, product innovations and high-caliber networking is driving record attendance at Transformation World this year,” said Jörg Petzhold, Vice President Global Marketing & Communication (CMO) at SNP. “With around 2,000 attendees, we expect an exceptional international customer presence and look forward to welcoming SAP user groups from Germany, the UK, the U.S., and China to the SNP dome for the first time.”

The Transformation World 2026 agenda, registration details, and further information are available here.

Hashtag: #SNP

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Asia Pacific Logistics Markets Diverge Despite 47% Tenant-Favourable Conditions as Supply Constraints Begin to Shift Balance

MIL OSI — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 06:46:54 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

Tenant-favorable markets in APAC expected to moderate as conditions tighten
Supply-constrained markets – Australia, Japan and Singapore are seeing rising competition
54% of global markets and 60% of APAC markets expect rental growth, reinforcing upward pricing pressure

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 July 2026 – Asia Pacific’s logistics markets are entering a more complex phase, with divergence across the region increasingly shaping both occupier strategy and investor positioning. According to Cushman & Wakefield’s Waypoint 2026 report, APAC remains the most tenant‑favorable region globally, with 47% of markets favoring occupiers, up from 33% in 2025, although conditions vary significantly as supply and demand dynamics continue to diverge across markets.

The report reveals that the Chinese mainland industrial and logistics market is currently characterized by tenant-favorable conditions driven by abundant supply and softer occupier demand. Significant levels of vacant stock across China’s regional markets have reduced landlord pricing power, resulting in downward pressure on rents and heightened tenant leverage. On the other hand, China remains cost-competitive globally — with relatively low rental and labor costs supporting its position as a major manufacturing hub.

Looking ahead, the Chinese mainland market is expected to remain under supply pressure in the near term, with vacancy rates likely to rise further as new supply continues to outpace occupier demand growth. Nevertheless, despite near-term challenges, both landlords and tenants remain optimistic about the long-term fundamentals of the mainland China logistics market in lease negotiations.

Tony Su, Managing Director and Head of Industrial & Logistics Services, China, Cushman & Wakefield, noted:” The overall premium logistics warehouse market in the Chinese mainland maintained a stable trajectory. On the supply-demand side, landlords prioritized renewal quality and long-term asset value, favoring stable tenants such as manufacturers, while remaining cautious toward long-term leases at low rates. Tenants, in contrast, remained highly price-sensitive and valued expansion flexibility. Despite certain divergences in leasing strategies, both sides are negotiating based on an optimistic outlook for the market, reflecting a gradual recovery of confidence in the premium logistics warehouse sector.”

APAC: Markets diverse, SEA emerging as a key growth hub

Supply‑constrained markets such as Australia, Japan and Singapore are experiencing increasing competition for space, with vacancy expected to decline as development pipelines remain limited. This is reflected in wider regional trends, where 43% of APAC markets are expected to see vacancy decline over the next three years, reflecting a gradual tightening of market conditions. In contrast, more tenant‑friendly conditions persist in parts of India and on the Chinese mainland, where higher levels of new supply continue to provide occupiers with greater flexibility. Across APAC, around a third of markets are expected to see vacancy rise amid ongoing development activity.

This divergence is reinforcing a market‑by‑market approach across the region. For landlords, aligning assets with high‑growth sectors such as e‑commerce, manufacturing, high‑tech and automotive, while ensuring buildings can support power demand and automation, is becoming increasingly important.

Dennis Yeo, Head of Investor Services and Logistics & Industrial, Asia Pacific, Cushman & Wakefield, said: “Different markets across APAC are experiencing different stages of growth, fueled by resilient occupier demand led by e-commerce and manufacturing. Supply constraints in markets such as Japan and Australia are driving competition, meanwhile continued availability in China and India is creating opportunity.”

Demand across APAC continues to be anchored by e‑commerce and manufacturing, alongside ongoing supply chain diversification, with Southeast Asia emerging as a key growth hub. Markets such as Vietnam, Indonesia and Thailand are seeing strengthening occupier activity driven by production shifts and regionalization strategies, while high‑tech and automotive sectors remain important sources of demand across North Asia. This is reinforcing the importance of modern, well‑located and future‑ready logistics facilities that can support evolving operational and technological requirements.

Global outlook: tightening conditions and rising costs

Globally, the report shows tenant‑favorable conditions declining from 52% in 2026 to 33% by 2029 as vacancy tightens and supply remains constrained, while landlord‑favorable markets are projected to rise from 26% to 39%, signalling a broader shift in market balance. At the same time, demand for high‑quality, strategically located assets continues to strengthen as businesses redesign supply chains to mitigate geopolitical, trade and climate risks, with global logistics rents now 36% above 2020 levels and 54% of markets expected to see rental growth over the next three years.

In the Americas, logistics markets are expected to see the most pronounced shift towards landlord‑favorable conditions as supply and demand rebalance across key U.S. hubs, while nearshoring continues to support demand in Mexico.

In EMEA, tightening vacancy alongside constrained development pipelines is narrowing occupier flexibility, while elevated energy costs are increasingly shaping location decisions and driving demand for energy‑efficient logistics assets.

Dr. Dominic Brown, Head of International Research, Cushman & Wakefield, said: “The next phase of the logistics cycle will be defined by preparedness. Businesses that embed resilience into their real estate strategies, through smarter use of technology, automation and energy‑secure assets, will be far better placed to navigate disruption and capture long‑term growth.”

Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield

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Save the Children – Health risks for children skyrocket one week after Venezuela earthquakes

LiveNews Publisher — Thu, 02 Jul 2026 22:23:07 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Children affected by last week’s earthquakes in Venezuela are facing increasing health risks as many families in shelters and temporary settlements lack access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services, Save the Children said.

Aid agencies are racing to deliver hygiene kits and other essential supplies to Caracas and La Guaira – two areas hardest hit by the earthquakes – as families sheltering outside face high temperatures in the day and heavy downpours at night, putting them at risk of dehydration diarrhoea and respiratory illnesses. The disaster comes at a time when Venezuela’s healthcare system is already under pressure to meet urgent medical needs.

Powerful storms, rain and thunder – which frequently occur during the peak months of the rainy season – are also adding to the anxiety children are facing. Parents of children sheltering outside in tents have told our teams on the ground how powerful storms, rain and thunder, have left children already distressed from the devastating earthquakes terrified.

More than 2,300 people have been confirmed dead following the back-to-back 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck on 24 June, and affected over 850 buildings, with almost 200 flattened.

Paolina-, a Save the Children staff member in Venezuela, said:

“Many people have lost their homes. Many have lost family members. This is undoubtedly overwhelming… facing this situation and seeing all these children affected.

“The experience has been traumatic for many adults and especially for children, many of whom still do not understand what happened in Venezuela.”

More than 600 aftershocks have been recorded since the initial earthquakes, according to the UN, with many children too scared to sleep indoors one week on. About 680,000 children have been impacted by the earthquakes, according to the UN.

Save the Children has launched a humanitarian response to help people in the affected regions, as survivors desperately need assistance such as health and psychosocial support and mobile safe spaces where children are protected and can get emergency items, such as shelter kits, tents and hygiene kits, and learning activities while schools remain closed.

Fatima Andraca, Save the Children’s Country Director in Venezuela, said:

“The earthquakes have already taken a devastating toll on children.

“Now a lack of adequate shelter, clean water and exposure to the elements including heavy downpours are creating a second emergency, exposing families sleeping outdoors or in informal settlements to new health risks.

“Hospitals have been damaged and are strained with the thousands of injuries they are trying to treat. If illnesses or other health risks intensify, the pressure on the health system will only worsen.

“Families urgently need access to clean and safe drinking water, adequate shelter, and mobile health care if they do get sick.”

Save the Children is an independent, impartial child rights organisation with our focus on the urgent humanitarian needs of children and families in Venezuela.

Save the Children has been working in Venezuela since 2019. Since the humanitarian crisis started to rapidly deteriorate a few years ago, Save the Children has been scaling its response through local partners to support the increasing number of children in need.

Save the Children is delivering health, nutrition, education, child protection, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene and food security and livelihoods support.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Save the Children is raising much-needed funds to support the response. To donate, go to: Venezuela Earthquakes Appeal.

Notes:

Terremotos en Venezuela: Reporte de situación #6 (29 de junio de 2026, Hora: 06:00 pm) – Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of) | ReliefWeb

MIL OSI

Venezuela Earthquakes: “Fear, stress, and overwhelming sadness are everywhere” as children pulled from rubble with tens of thousands still missing

LiveNews Publisher — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 09:22:35 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Children in Venezuela are living on the streets and in informal tented camps, underscoring the urgent need for support, as rescue teams work round the clock to free people from the rubble with about 50,000 reported missing, Save the Children said [1].

Save the Children staff have described how rescue teams are pulling children out of the rubble, while some children are wandering the streets and going into hospitals in shock.

The country’s deadliest earthquakes in more than a century have driven children from their homes, with some now living in informal tented camps in parks or on the street, close to damaged buildings they cannot return to.

Nearly five days after the twin 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude earthquakes struck, frequent aftershocks on the ground are being felt by Save the Children teams in Venezuela, causing further terror for children.

Protection is an immediate and critical priority for children, especially for those who lose contact with caregivers on the streets or in informal camps.

Save the Children will be working with partners and authorities to support family tracing and reunification, including identifying unaccompanied children and referring them to the appropriate protection services. The humanitarian and child rights organisation is providing emergency mental health and psychosocial support and will be operating mobile safe spaces where children are protected and can get emergency items, such as tents and hygiene kits, and learning activities while schools remain closed.

The UN has said up to 6.76 million people could be affected by the devastating earthquakes with up to 2 million people in Caracas alone impacted, underscoring the vast humanitarian impact of the disaster as assessments continue and rescue teams work around the clock to save people trapped under collapsed buildings.

Critical infrastructure remains severely disrupted, including electricity, water, telecommunications and transport, while hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties and schools in affected areas are closed.

Fatima Andraca, Save the Children’s Country Director in Venezuela, said:

“We are seeing so many families on the street – families who have lost everything and cannot return to the shattered ruins of their homes. There is so much uncertainty for them about the hours and days ahead.

“Fear, stress, and overwhelming sadness are everywhere. Families come to me to share their stories with tears in their eyes. Some are still frantically searching for relatives or friends. For children, the loss of everything familiar and comforting are immeasurable.

“Protection and psychosocial support are urgent priorities for children. With so many people dead, injured or missing, children will urgently need long term support to ensure that this devastating disaster does not cause long lasting mental harm.”

Save the Children is on the ground in Venezuela, working with authorities and local partners and will be providing primary healthcare through mobile clinics, distributing hygiene kits, clean water and essential supplies, and setting up safe spaces where children can access mental health support and continue learning while schools remain closed. The organisation will be also supporting nutrition screening, child protection services, and tracing and reuniting separated families.

Save the Children is an independent, impartial child rights organisation with our focus on the urgent humanitarian needs of children and families in Venezuela.

Notes to Editors:[1] As of 28 June, around 50,000 people are still reported missing in Venezuela, according to an independent online registry for missing persons: https://news.sky.com/story/venezuela-earthquake-live-high-casualties-feared-after-back-to-back-tremors-hit-south-american-country-13557399?postid=11956228#liveblog-body

MIL OSI

Bracell Welcomes Fernando Branco’s Appointment to Lead ABAF and Reinforces Commitment to Sustainable Forestry Development in Bahia

MIL OSI — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 07:51:42 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – Bracell congratulates Fernando Branco, the company’s Treasury Manager, on his appointment as President of the Board of Directors of the Bahia Association of Forestry-Based Companies (ABAF) for the 2026 – 2028 term. The appointment reflects Bracell’s longstanding commitment to advancing the sustainable development of Brazil’s planted-forestry sector through collaboration, innovation, responsible governance and stakeholder engagement.

With more than two decades of experience in the pulp and paper industry and a decade of service on ABAF’s Fiscal Council, Branco brings extensive expertise in governance, finance and institutional engagement to the role. Under his leadership, ABAF will continue promoting dialogue among industry, government, communities and civil society to support the sustainable growth of Bahia’s forestry sector.

“The forestry sector plays a critical role in generating employment, supporting regional development, fostering innovation and contributing to environmental conservation,” said Fernando. “Through constructive dialogue, transparency, legal certainty and shared governance, we can strengthen the sector’s positive contribution to Bahia’s economy and sustainable development,” he added.

As one of the world’s leading producers of dissolving pulp and specialty cellulose, Bracell believes that sustainable forestry is fundamental to addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity conservation and the transition to a low-carbon economy. The company has consistently invested in sustainable forest management practices, research and development, biodiversity protection, carbon monitoring initiatives and partnerships that promote responsible land use and environmental stewardship.

Bracell’s forestry operations are guided by a long-term sustainability strategy that combines productive eucalyptus plantations with the conservation of native vegetation, protection of water resources and preservation of biodiversity. Through its 1-for-1 commitment, the company has expanded its conservation efforts and strengthened its contribution to climate and nature-positive outcomes.

The company also recognises that the sustainable development of the forestry sector extends beyond environmental stewardship. Bracell, a member of the RGE group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, works closely with local communities through initiatives focused on education, income generation, environmental awareness and social development, helping create lasting value in the regions where it operates. In Bahia alone, tens of thousands of people have benefitted from the company’s social programmes.

Branco’s appointment comes at a time when the forestry sector is increasingly called upon to contribute solutions for sustainable economic growth and climate resilience. Fernando’s leadership at ABAF represents an important opportunity to further strengthen collaboration across the sector and advance shared sustainability goals for Bahia and Brazil, the company said.

Through ABAF, Bracell will continue supporting initiatives that strengthen the competitiveness, transparency and sustainability of Bahia’s forestry value chain while contributing to a sector that generates renewable products, supports local economies and helps build a more sustainable future.

https://www.bracell.com

Hashtag: #RGE #Bracell #Sustainability #SustainableDevelopment #Conservation #Forestry #Brazil #Bahia #ABAF

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Media Startup ‘World & New World Journal’ Redefines Global Current Affairs with 7-Language Service

MIL OSI — Mon, 29 Jun 2026 05:32:56 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

Built a premier knowledge platform for defense, diplomacy, and economics powered by 570+ global scholars and experts.
Secured high-quality multilingual content through rigorous localized review by native staff in Germany, Mexico, and beyond.
Proved startup innovation with readers from 148 countries and over 14.3 million cumulative reach on social media.

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 June 2026 – The global current affairs platform ‘World & New World Journal’ (CEO Myngho Hyun) is gaining rapid traction by driving the democratization of knowledge through multilingual dissemination. Since its inception in 2022, the platform has published approximately 7,000 deep-dive analyses and translated articles as of 2026, solidifying its position as a trusted global knowledge hub.

The core mission of the Journal is the “democratization of knowledge, free from language and cost barriers. “It simultaneously translates expert analyses and official statements from world leaders into seven languages—Korean, English, Arabic, French, German, Russian, and Spanish—and offers them entirely free of charge to a global audience.

To ensure pristine translation quality that goes far beyond basic machine translation, the Journal utilizes a localized editorial system with staff in strategic regions like Germany and Mexico to preserve cultural context and precise geopolitical terminology. Furthermore, its signature ‘VIP Speech’ section allows readers to easily access the policy priorities of world leaders in multiple languages.

Driven by this innovative service model and an agile startup mindset, the World & New World Journal has achieved remarkable global visibility in a short period. To date, it has attracted readers from 148 countries, maintaining 25,000 Monthly Active Users (MAU) and 75,000 page views. Its cumulative reach across various social media platforms has surpassed 14.3 million, proving its steep growth trajectory.

“Our mission is to combine the academic rigor of a scholarly journal with the actionable insights of a top-tier think tank to provide a balanced perspective on critical global issues,” said Myungho Hyun, Founder & CEO of World & New World Journal. “Moving beyond the constraints of traditional media, we will continue our innovative experiments and global expansion to ensure readers worldwide can access premium international affairs analysis without language or financial barriers.”

All articles and multilingual services of the World & New World Journal can be accessed free of charge on the official website (https://worldandnewworld.com) and its official social media channels.

Hashtag: #WANWJ

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKES: ‘A cataclysmic event’ – Children spend second night sheltering in open spaces amid hundreds of aftershocks as needs rapidly rise

LiveNews Publisher — Fri, 26 Jun 2026 11:37:58 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Families in earthquake-devastated Venezuela spent a second night sheltering in open spaces amid fears of further building collapses and raising serious concerns over children’s safety and their immediate needs, Save the Children said.

Venezuela has declared a national emergency following two consecutive 7.5 and 7.2 magnitude earthquakes in the north-central region of the country, putting thousands of children and families at risk. [1]

At least 255 people have been killed and 4,500 injured as of 25 June, according to the country’s health ministry, although these numbers are likely to rise.

Save the Children’s teams and local partners on the ground have reported child deaths and injuries and children have been confirmed separated from their families during evacuations in the capital Caracas and La Guaira – a major port city.

Fatima Andraca, Save the Children’s Country Director in Venezuela, fled her old, 12-storey building barefoot through an outside staircase when the interior stairs of the building were too damaged to use.

Fatima said:

“There is devastation and destruction everywhere you look and many children and families, including here in Caracas, have been forced to spend another night sheltering in open spaces.

“Families are clutching what few belongings they managed to save, children are in the open streets too scared to return to their destroyed homes which are unsafe. The safety of children is a serious concern and our top priority.

“In the days and weeks ahead, children will need protection, psychosocial support, safe water and safe spaces as communities recover from this cataclysmic event.”

Save the Children and its partners have teams on the ground in affected areas who will be responding to children and families impacted, providing child protection, shelter, health services, food and emergency relief items.

In Aotearoa New Zealand, Save the Children has launched an emergency appeal to support the response in Venezuela.

Save the Children New Zealand CEO Heather Campbell said as New Zealanders, we understand all too well the devastation earthquakes can bring to families and communities.

“That’s why we have launched this emergency appeal – to urgently support children and families in Venezuela. Children are always the most vulnerable in disasters like this, and they need immediate protection, care, and support. We are calling on New Zealanders to stand with us and act now to help deliver life-saving assistance where it’s needed most.”

VLOGS: Save the Children staff Fátima Andraca and Laura Ciudad give first-hand accounts of the destruction caused by the earthquakes in Venezuela:

www.contenthubsavethechildren.org/Package/2O4C2SPDM4VQ

References:

[1] OCHA: https://reliefweb.int/report/venezuela-bolivarian-republic/earthquakes-venezuela-situation-report-2-25-june-2026-time-300-pm

MIL OSI

“Japan Creator Support Fund Progress Report Meeting” highlights international success of Japan’s next generation of creators and artists

MIL OSI — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 12:02:56 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

The Fund is beginning to generate tangible international outcomes, including awards, nominations and co-productions across music, film, games and the arts, while expanding opportunities for overseas performances, international events and cross-border collaborations.

To date, projects supported by the Fund have been implemented across 23 countries and regions, generating new forms of international collaboration within the creative industries.

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 June 2026 – Held on Friday, June 5, 2026, the “Japan Creator Support Fund Progress Report Meeting” served as a platform for organizations selected under the “Support Programs for Creator Development & Cultural Facilities Function Enhancement” and the “Creator Support Program (Program Development and Implementation)” to present the outcomes of their projects from FY2025. The event, took place at the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT), Tokyo, highlighted growing international engagement through overseas performances, participation in major international events, and cross-border collaborations, with supported projects generating tangible results including awards, nominations, co-productions, and institutional partnerships across music, film, games, visual arts, and the performing arts.

Now entering its third year, the Japan Creator Support Fund is a government-backed, multi-year national initiative supported by the Agency for Cultural Affairs that aims to nurture emerging creators and artists while strengthening cultural institutions that serve as hubs for creative activity and public engagement. The Fund, delivered through the Japan Arts Council, also promotes international exchange and overseas expansion opportunities, helping Japanese creators and cultural organisations build global networks and reach new audiences.

The progress report meeting opened with remarks from Mr. Shigeki Kobayashi, Vice Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology. Noting the government’s commitment to strengthening Japan’s creative industries, Vice Minister Kobayashi emphasised that “creators and artists themselves are the source of compelling content,” reaffirming the importance of sustained investment in creative talent and international exchange. At the report meeting, representatives from the Japan Arts Council provided an overview and progress update on the Japan Creator Support Fund, reporting that supported projects have generated international activity across 23 countries and regions, spanning Asia, Europe, North America and beyond. Achievements reported for FY2025 included selections at the Berlin International Film Festival, Cannes Directors’ Fortnight and Annecy International Animation Film Festival, performances at London’s Royal Opera House, international touring projects, and new collaborations between Japanese and overseas cultural organisations. Further information on program results, case studies and upcoming international activities can be found in the Notes to Editors below.

At the report meeting, four organizations each introduced its project, reporting on progress to date as well as key challenges, future plans and areas for further development.

Japan Performing Arts Solidarity Network introduced SOIL Fellowship Program (Stage for Originality, Innovation, and Leadership), an initiative designed to cultivate producers and strengthen the international positioning of Japanese performing arts. In FY2025, program participants took part in pitching events in London and Edinburgh, presenting their work to performing arts professionals from around the world. The project aims to enhance the global presence of Japanese theatre, facilitate the international circulation of works, and foster the accumulation and sharing of professional expertise.
Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre presented TMT Gear – The Creator Support Project, which seeks to strengthen Japan’s international presence in contemporary performing arts through the development of globally active creators and the enhancement of theatre staff expertise. FY2025 activities included on-the-job training during overseas performances, international networking with performing arts professionals, work-in-progress presentations in the fields of performing arts and music, and 8K recording and technical training initiatives undertaken by the theatre’s video media team.
KINEMA CIRTUS reported on the Global Anime Challenge (GAC), a program designed to provide learning opportunities for emerging talent and foster the next generation of leaders in Japan’s animation industry. In FY2025, participants attended domestic workshops and undertook internships at overseas animation studios, gaining practical knowledge across key areas of the industry, including international collaboration, production and business development. The project also identified future priorities, including strengthening support from participating studios and expanding opportunities for internationally focused animation production.
Jikei Gakuen School Corporation – Tokyo Communication Arts College introduced Immersive Media Lab++, an immersive content creator development program delivered in collaboration with XR company STYLY. During FY2025, the project focused on establishing the foundations of its curriculum and conducting overseas research visits to inform program development. Participants also reported on experiences gained through hackathons and study visits to the United States. Beginning in FY2026, the program plans to introduce year-round courses for students alongside overseas training opportunities and expanded international partnerships.

For further information, please visit the official Japan Creator Support Fund website, which provides updated information on selected organizations, upcoming exhibitions and performances, event information, creator interview videos, and creator profiles. https://creator.ntj.jac.go.jp

APPENDIX: KEY FY2025 RESULTS, INTERNATIONAL ACHIEVEMENTS AND UPCOMING FY2026 ACTIVITIES

Support Program Achievements

Creator & Artist Development Support Program
Activities carried out under the supported projects have included participation in overseas events, performances in Europe, research conducted abroad, and other initiatives. These initiatives have produced results such as awards, nominations, and co-productions across various fields, including music, film, and games. Through the strengthening of domestic and international networks and professional guidance, a solid foundation is being steadily built for full-scale overseas expansion.

Key FY2025 Results:

Number of creators supported: 544
Number of advisors involved: 301
Domestic performances/exhibitions: 163
Overseas performances/exhibitions: 165
Total attendance across domestic and international events: 873,761
Countries and regions involved (23 total): Ireland, United States, Italy, India, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland, South Korea, China, Germany, France, Vietnam, Malta, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Spain, Argentina, and Portugal

Support Program for Cultural Facilities Function Enhancement
Through initiatives funded by the Japan Creator Support Fund, international collaboration has advanced through various hubs including museums, theaters, concert halls, and other institutions. Talent development has also been strengthened through the invitation of overseas curators, co-commissions, mentoring by leading figures in Japan and abroad, and critical writing by development candidates. Progress is also being made in forming foundations for international expansion and network-building, including the establishment of new organizations, overseas performances, professional development, and exchange.

Key FY2025 Results:

Number of creators supported: 133
Number of advisors involved: 88
Overseas performances/exhibitions: 5
Domestic performances/exhibitions: 92
Total attendance across domestic and international events: 1,900,597
Countries and regions involved (8 total): South Korea, China, Germany, France, Taiwan, Indonesia, Slovakia, and Mexico

Creator Support Program (Program Development & Implementation)
Individual projects are undertaking specific measures to develop and implement training programs. In particular, selected educational organizations are making progress in their preparations to establish new departments and courses. As part of these measures, many overseas study visits have been conducted in order to understand needs for Japanese content around the world and survey the state of education for developing global talent. Destinations included approximately 15 countries worldwide, including countries in Africa.

The selection of training candidates is moving forward, and some projects have already launched practical programs. In addition to seminars and workshops held in Japan, overseas dispatches have also taken place. Initiatives included participation in the Berlin International Film Festival in Germany by Tokyo Docs, Atmovie Inc., and Tokyo University of the Arts; an observation visit to MIT Reality Hack in the United States by Jikei Gakuen; and training at higher education institutions, such as the dispatch by VIPO to the Griffith Film School in Australia.

Building on Recent International Successes: Looking Ahead to FY2026

Various organizations are expected to launch full-scale overseas exhibitions, performances and collaborative initiatives in FY2026, further expanding the global reach of Japanese creators and cultural institutions. These upcoming activities build on a growing number of international achievements already generated through projects supported by the Japan Creator Support Fund.

Upcoming FY2026 Activities

As part of ROHM Theatre Kyoto‘s “Repertory Premiere: ‘Hopes’” program, Kichijitsu Saikai, a work created by one of the program’s supported artists, is scheduled to be presented at the Beitou Art Festival in Taiwan from 7–9 August 2026.

In September 2026, WITH LiMBO, created by participants of Aichi Prefectural Art Theater’s “Constellation ~ Connecting Worlds with Aichi Prefectural Art Theater Dance Project ~” is scheduled to be performed in Slovakia.

In the visual arts sector, Syuto Kanazawa is presenting the exhibition Ethnography of the Body and Material — Slowness and Depth in an Accelerated Society as part of “Kogei Artists Promotion Project”in Venice, Italy, from 9 May to 22 November 2026.

Recent International Successes

Under the New National Theatre, Tokyo‘s “Project for Training World-class Dancers Through International Performances”, Giselle was staged at London’s Royal Opera House from 24–27 July 2025. The performances attracted significant attention and played to near-capacity audiences throughout the run. Building on this success, the National Ballet of Japan was named Outstanding Company at the UK’s National Dance Awards 2025 by the Critics’ Circle Dance Section, becoming the first Japanese ballet company to receive the prestigious honour. The award recognised the company’s achievements in the UK, including its Royal Opera House performances under the artistic direction of Miyako Yoshida.

As part of Shochiku‘s “Creator Development Aimed at Expanding Kabuki Overseas”, joint lectures and performances with Korean pansori artists were held in South Korea, laying the groundwork for the European tour of How an Onnagata Is Made. In April 2026, the production undertook its first European tour in eight years, presenting six performances across Paris, Rome and Cologne.

Under “Film Frontier”, a feature animation creator support program administered by UNIJAPAN, Hanarokushō ga Akeru Hi ni was selected for the Competition section of the 76th Berlin International Film Festival, competing for the Golden Bear. Directed by Japanese painter Yoshitoshi Shinomiya, the film marks his feature directorial debut and received support through the program for its international development. The selection represents a significant milestone for Japanese animation, following Spirited Away and Suzume, which were previously selected for the festival’s Competition section.

Also supported through “Film Frontier”, Housenka was selected for the Feature Film Competition at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival 2025. The original animated feature was created by director Baku Kinoshita and writer Kazuya Konomoto, the creative team behind the acclaimed television series Odd Taxi. The program supported the film’s international development and overseas promotion.

Under “New Way, New World: Program for Connecting Japanese Animators to the World”, administered by Computer Graphic Arts Society (CG-ARTS), Eri, directed by first-cohort selected artist Honami Yano, was selected for Directors’ Fortnight at the 79th Cannes Film Festival.

As part of Mori Art Museum‘s “Global Art Professional Development Project”, the exhibition The Architecture of Sou Fujimoto: Primordial Future Forest attracted 236,705 visitors, achieving 160% of its attendance target, and received positive reviews across more than 50 media outlets. Following its successful presentation in Tokyo, the exhibition is scheduled to tour Asia in 2026.

Under Aichi Prefectural Art Theater‘s “Constellation: Aichi Prefectural Art Theater Dance Project Connecting the World”, Giselle: A Summary, featuring program participant Hana Sakai, was invited to the Lessingtage theatre festival in Hamburg, Germany, in February 2026 and to the SPRING Performing Arts Festival in Utrecht, the Netherlands, in May 2026. The performances received positive critical attention, with local reviewers highlighting Sakai’s exceptional technical skill and artistry.

https://x.com/JCSF_official
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Hashtag: #JapanCreatorSupportFund

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Luis Suarez Joins 1win as Official Football Expert for the FIFA World Cup 2026

MIL OSI — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 08:49:12 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 June 2026 – The international brand 1win has announced a partnership with football legend Luis Suarez, who joins the company as its official football expert and ambassador for the FIFA World Cup 2026 season.

One of the most accomplished forwards of his generation, Suarez will provide exclusive match predictions, analysis, and expert commentary throughout the tournament for the global 1win audience. His insights and match analytics will be published across the 1win platforms, helping football fans engage with the biggest sporting event of the year from a professional player’s perspective.

As part of the collaboration, Suarez will also participate in a range of entertainment-focused digital activations and social media content created for football fans worldwide. The agreement is exclusive and covers the entire FIFA World Cup 2026, with opportunities for further cooperation beyond the tournament.

Luis Suárez is widely regarded as one of the greatest strikers in modern football history. The Suarez is the all-time leading goalscorer of the Uruguay national team, a two-time European Golden Shoe winner, UEFA Champions League champion, five-time Spanish champion, and the recipient of the Best Player award at the 2011 Copa America.

“Luis Suarez represents football passion, elite performance, and a deep understanding of the game. We are excited to welcome him to 1win during the FIFA World Cup 2026 and provide our audience with unique expert content from one of football’s most respected figures,” said a spokesperson for 1win.

Throughout the 2026 FIFA World Cup season, football fans will have the opportunity to follow Suárez’s predictions, tactical breakdowns, and match insights exclusively on the 1win platforms.

Hashtag: #1win

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

Venezuela Earthquake: Rescuers race to free people trapped in rubble as children forced from their homes by massive quakes – Save the Children

LiveNews Publisher — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 07:41:40 +0000

Source: Save the Children

Rescuers are racing to find people trapped in the rubble of collapsed buildings after two massive earthquakes struck west of the capital Caracas, forcing children and their families from their homes, Save the Children said.

The double earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude have cut off communications and power in some areas so the extent of the destruction and casualties will take time to become clear.The earthquakes struck during the evening when many people were returning home, increasing concerns that individuals may be trapped beneath collapsed structures.

Save the Children works with partners in the affected areas and is working to assess urgent needs. Preventative evacuations have been carried out in several cities, with some children and families moving into open areas as aftershocks continue.

Fatima Andraca, Country Director, Save the Children in Venezuela said:

“Children are among the most vulnerable after these earthquakes. Some will have lost their homes and aftershocks are continuing, causing further terror for children and heightening the risk of further damage and casualties.

“While the extent of the destruction will take time to become clear, we know from past experience that children will need urgent support to access shelter, food, water and healthcare now. They may have been separated from their families in the chaos and could be at risk of exploitation and abuse.

“Save the Children is assessing the situation on the ground and working with our staff and local partners to understand urgent needs and support affected families as quickly as possible.”

About Save the Children NZ:

Save the Children works in 120 countries across the world. The organisation responds to emergencies and works with children and their communities to ensure they survive, learn and are protected.

MIL OSI

HKSTP Leads Largest-Ever Hong Kong Delegation to BIO 2026 Showcasing Life and Health Tech Strength

MIL OSI — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 10:33:42 +0000

Source: Media Outreach

41 local tech firms, institutes and university spin-offs head to San Diego to forge global partnerships, reinforcing the city’s status as international healthcare innovation hub

HONG KONG SAR/SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 June 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) as supporting organisation, and five renowned local universities – The University of Hong Kong, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and City University of Hong Kong – to form the city’s largest-ever delegation of life and health technology innovators to the BIO International Convention 2026 (BIO 2026) in San Diego, from June 22 to 25.

In collaboration with InvestHK and HKTDC, HKSTP led a delegation of 41 park companies, institutes and spin-offs from five renowned local universities to showcase the Hong Kong’s life and health technology innovations at BIO 2026 in San Diego.

Building on last year’s momentum, the 2026 Hong Kong delegation doubled the size of the Hong Kong Pavilion, expanding to a record of 41 organisations from HKSTP, including partner companies, research institutes, and for the first time with top five universities spin-offs. This landmark presence showcased Hong Kong’s deep strength across AI-enabled biotech, therapeutics, diagnostics, and pharma innovation, with potential outstanding “First-in-Class” and “Best-in-Class” assets. The delegation underscores the city’s leading role as Asia’s largest and the world’s second largest fundraising hub for the biotechnology sector.

Mr. Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said, “BIO 2026 is a premier platform to showcase Hong Kong’s groundbreaking innovation, deepen partnerships, and open new pathways into global healthcare markets. As a super-connector, Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to bridge global innovators with opportunities across Asia and beyond. With strong R&D capabilities backed by world-class universities—five ranked among the QS Top 100, including two with medical schools now placed in the global top 20—Hong Kong’s biotech and medical research excellence is increasingly recognised worldwide. As the city’s innovation ecosystem orchestrator, HKSTP brings together talent, capital, research institutions, clinical partners, and industry leaders to accelerate the journey from discovery to impact. We will continue to empower life and health technology ventures, translating innovation breakthroughs into life-changing solutions that benefit communities around the world.”

HKSTP and Park Companies Advanced in Cross-border Innovation and Market Expansion

A key highlight of BIO 2026 is witnessing the signing of three major strategic partnerships:

LabCentral — HKSTP signed an MOU with one of the largest global non–profit biotech incubators, supporting life sciences startups with high-impact lab infrastructure and scientific community programmes. The collaboration will deepen ties between the U.S. and Hong Kong life sciences ecosystems through startup support, ecosystem engagement, and co-developed programmes, events and strategic initiatives. It will also help connect startups, investors, corporate partners and research institutions, creating stronger pathways for cross-border innovation and commercialisation.

Immuno Cure – the developer of the first-in-human novel therapeutic HIV vaccine ICVAX – announced its collaboration with OPIS, an international Contract Research Organization (CRO), at BIO 2026. Leveraging OPIS’s full-service, multi-country clinical trial expertise and regulatory knowledge, the partnership will support overseas clinical trial execution and establish a global framework to prepare for international expansion.

Zhaoke Ophthalmology signed an MOU with Laboratório Teuto, the first company to produce generic medicines and OTCs (Over the Counter – Prescription Exempt Medicines) in Brazil, to explore cross-border cooperation in ophthalmology. This is Zhaoke’s first strategic MOU in Brazil market. Leveraging its innovative pipeline and Teuto’s commercial network in Brazil, the partnership aims to bring advanced eye care treatments to Latin American patients while demonstrating the globalisation of Hong Kong-born biotech innovation.

Beyond the BIO 2026 Hong Kong Pavilion, HKSTP CEO Mr Terry Wong attended the “Translating Innovation Across Borders: Creating Global Gateways for Biotech Startups” panel sharing session. Mr. Wong shared his insights on cutting-edge biotech trends, Hong Kong’s strengths on life and health tech development, and HKSTP’s role in building a global bridge for nurturing global startup expansion, sustainable innovation and collaboration.

Furthermore, HKSTP and five Hong Kong university delegates visited the Salk Institute, home to six Nobel Laureates during BIO 2026 to explore partnerships and shape global biotech momentum through collaborative platforms. HKSTP, in collaboration with InvestHK as co-organiser, HKTDC as the supporting organisation, and powered by the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in San Francisco, hosted a Global Mixer during the exhibition. Industry leaders, incubators, and venture capital firms – including Bayer Pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson Innovation, LabCentral, Roche, Simcere Pharmaceutical, and T.Rx Capital – were invited to join the judging panel for startup pitching sessions. The Pavilion also featured executive sharing and curated networking events for commercialisation, licensing, partnerships, investment and international market expansion.

Global recognition at Biomedical Pitch Competition

In the lead-up to BIO 2026, HKSTP actively drove engagement across the biotech sector and co-organised the 2026 Biomedical Pitch Competition with the Boston Capital Investment Club in Boston on May 23 and 24. Competing against around 170 biotechnology companies worldwide, HKSTP park company Meta Pharmaceuticals (HK) Limited won Third Place for its next-generation autoimmune therapeutics. The recognition underscores the strength of Hong Kong’s biotech pipeline and HKSTP’s commitment to translational medicine, commercialisation and globally scalable healthcare solutions.

HK’s biotech ecosystem rises to another level

Hong Kong continues to expand its global healthcare footprint as the world’s second-largest biotech fundraising hub. As Hong Kong’s flagship innovation and technology ecosystem, HKSTP is home to more than 300 life and health technology companies and helps innovators turn pioneering ideas into real-world impact. Its ecosystem connects capital, talent, infrastructure and market access across the biotech innovation journey.

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– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.