Three arrested following Mount Wellington firearms incident

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

Three people have been taken into custody following a firearms incident in Mount Wellington last night.

At about 8.40pm, there was an altercation between two groups of people outside a restaurant on Lunn Avenue before the parties separated and got into two vehicles.

Detective Inspector Glenn Baldwin, of Auckland City CIB, says the occupants in one vehicle allegedly discharged a firearm towards the other vehicle.

“Both vehicles fled immediately after, however our staff were in the area, and signalled one to stop.

“The other vehicle has continued on towards Mount Wellington and was tracked by the Police helicopter heading towards Māngere.”

Detective Inspector Baldwin says the Police helicopter provided commentary as the vehicle pulled into a property on Mountain Road, Māngere Bridge where the occupants ran through properties and got into another vehicle.

“The offenders then continued onto the South-Western motorway towards Manurewa and officers attempted to stop it on Puhinui Road, however, it failed to stop.

“A pursuit ensued towards a Burundi Avenue address where two people were arrested, both with gang links.”

He says a sawn-off shotgun was also located in the vehicle.

“While officers were at the scene another vehicle drove through Police cordons and failed to stop when signalled so that driver was also arrested. She was the partner of one of the arrested men.

“We know incidents like this are distressing for the wider community, so these swift arrests by our diligent staff are really pleasing and significant to ongoing public safety.”

The police investigation is continuing and further arrests are not excluded.

A 30-year-old man will appear in Auckland District Court today charged with unlawful possession of a firearm, failing to stop, and intent to cause grievous bodily harm with a firearm.

Detective Inspector Baldwin says there are currently no known links between a later firearms incident in neighbouring Counties Manukau district.

“We are keeping an open mind at this very early stage,” he says.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Rockfall protection work planned for State Highway 59. Pukerua Bay – Paekākāriki

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Transport Agency

Work will begin next Monday night (20 January) to reduce the risk of slips on State Highway 59 north of Pukerua Bay.

It is the next stage in ongoing rockfall protection on the route between Pukerua Bay and Paekākāriki and is near the site of a major overslip repair completed in 2022.

Location of rockfall protection works, SH59 Pukerua Bay – Paekākariki

Contractors will be on site from Monday, 20 January through until the end of March. Abseilers will begin by constructing a safety barrier on the southbound lane to catch potential rockfalls, preventing them from reaching the road.

The intention is to further reduce the risk of slips and rockfalls on the highway and improve its resilience and reliability for drivers. On average, over 7,000 vehicles use the highway daily.

The work will affect traffic flows on the route, with stop/go traffic management in place at the work site on weekdays, and a temporary 30 km/h speed limit at nights and on weekends.

Drivers should allow extra time for their journeys or use State Highway 1 Transmission Gully (Te Aranui o Te Rangihaeata) as an alternative route.

NZTA/Waka Kotahi and the Wellington Transport Alliance thank drivers for their patience and cooperation while this essential state highway work is completed.

Works Schedule and Traffic Management:

Monday, 20 January until the end of March
- Monday, 20 January: Stop/Go traffic management, 10 pm – 2 am (for site set up)
- Weekdays: Stop/Go traffic management, 9 am – 4 pm (no work on weekends)
- Weekends and nights: 30 km/h temporary speed limits

More information:

MIL OSI

Time running out to claim $100,000 reward in Arthur Easton investigation

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

A reward for information to identify the person responsible for murdering Arthur Easton 39 years ago will expire in 7 days.

Police announced a $100,000 reward in October, for information that leads to finding the person responsible for killing Arthur in his Papakura home nearly four decades ago.

The reward was offered for a limited period of three months to encourage people who have credible, current information to come forward now, and not leave it any longer.

On Sunday 13 October 1985, a male intruder entered the Easton family home on Grove Road at 8pm.

Arthur and his two teenage sons confronted this offender in the hallway, which lead to a violent altercation and ultimately the death of 52-year-old Arthur.

Detective Inspector Warrick Adkin, Counties Manukau CIB, says the investigation team is continuing to assess the information and conduct follow-up enquiries.

“We cannot provide details while the investigation is ongoing, but we are committed to getting a result as soon as possible.

“We are determined to find the person responsible for killing Arthur and we know there are still people who have not yet spoken to Police and who may have information about the events around Arthur’s death.”

Detective Inspector Adkin says Police are grateful to those who have come forward with new information, and hopes the possibility of a significant cash reward will prompt others.

“It’s is not too late to come forward and speak to us, and to give Arthur’s family the answers they deserve.”

The reward will remain in place until midnight on 24 January 2025.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the team by calling 0800 GROVE 1985 (0800 47683 1985) or emailing directly to Operation.Grove1985@police.govt.nz

Information can be provided by updating Police online at https://www.police.govt.nz/use-105 or by calling 105.

Please use the reference number 200520/4108.

Information can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

ENDS.

Holly McKay/NZ Police

MIL OSI

Business – New report emphasises infrastructure costs when planning for growth

LiveNews Publisher

January 17, 2025

Source: New Zealand Infrastructure Commission

A new report by the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Te Waihanga, highlights the opportunities that Auckland’s population density offers for reducing infrastructure costs for New Zealand.

“Statistics New Zealand’s population projections show that Auckland is expected to grow nearly 30% over the next 25 years, so it’s crucial we figure out ways to reap the benefits of population density when it comes to providing infrastructure services like our water, electricity, hospitals, schools and roads,” says Te Waihanga Chief Executive Geoff Cooper.

“The good news is that on many counts, the cost to service infrastructure can be cheaper in Auckland than in other places. For example, the cost to the Crown to roll out the Ultra-Fast Broadband Initiative that occurred between 2009 and 2022 for Auckland households and businesses was around 13% lower than the cost elsewhere in New Zealand ($971 for Auckland compared to $1,110 for the rest of New Zealand).

“Retail electricity prices, which reflect the full costs of generating, transmitting, distributing, and retailing electricity, are lower in many parts of Auckland compared to other parts of the country. For example, in Auckland Central retail electricity prices are about 5% lower than the national average. The lower prices appear to be mostly due to lower distribution charges, which makes sense when you consider a kilometre of electricity line in an urban area will serve more customers than a kilometre in a rural area,” Cooper says.

“In terms of land transport, Auckland’s density reduces the average distance that people need to travel to reach their destination, which is reflected in the fact that Auckland has 79% less local roads per capita and 88% less state highways compared to the rest of New Zealand. Auckland’s density also increases the viability of providing public transport services – Auckland accounts for 55% of New Zealand’s total public transport boardings.

“Auckland receives 33% of total National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) spending, which is similar to its share of national population. But it spends this very differently compared to the rest of New Zealand,” Cooper says.

Auckland spends less on road maintenance as it has a smaller network to maintain. It spends more on public transport operations and capital investment, reflecting higher levels of public transport provision and use. Auckland also spends more on road improvements due to more complex mitigation requirements in an existing urban environment and higher land acquisition costs.

“The challenge then is to manage these costs down through a longer-term approach to infrastructure planning that leverages the benefits of density. For instance, designating or acquiring land for infrastructure in advance to make it cheaper and easier to build the infrastructure when and where we need it. As we gave as an example in our 2023 report ‘Protecting land for infrastructure’, if the land for the North-South Opaheke Arterial had been purchased at the time the cost would have been $78m, but the price could rise by 13 times, to $1.0bn by the time of expected purchase,” Cooper says.

“Our largest city needs to grow in a way that stacks up financially and shares benefits widely. This means that a critical component of addressing the infrastructure challenge is a deeper understanding of where the lowest-cost places are to grow from an infrastructure perspective. This information might then usefully drive planning processes rather than follow them.”

Background information

Outside of looking at the cost of Auckland’s network infrastructure compared to the rest of New Zealand, the report also looks at what Auckland households spend on infrastructure and Aucklanders’ perceptions on options to pay for infrastructure services, such as water, roads and electricity.
In 2023, the Auckland region had a population of 1.66 million people, or 33% of New Zealand’s total population. However, the Auckland region only occupies 1.8% of the country’s total land area.
Auckland’s population isn’t evenly distributed within its region, with 92% of Aucklanders living in only 14% of the region’s area.
Auckland is less densely populated than large European cities, but it is comparable to similarly sized Australian and Canadian cities.
In 2023, Auckland contributed 38% of the country’s total economic output (GDP, or gross domestic product).
The median motorway expansion project in Auckland cost around $13.2 million per lane-kilometre (in 2021 New Zealand dollars), which is equal to over $50 million per kilometre for a four-lane road. This is 62% higher than the median cost of around $8.2 million per lane-kilometre in the rest of New Zealand.

MIL OSI

NZ-AU: American Rare Earths Named to the 2025 OTCQX Best 50

MIL OSI

January 17, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

DENVER, Jan. 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | OTCQX: ARRNF | ADR: AMRRY) (“ARR” or the Company) is proud to announce its recognition in the 2025 OTCQX® Best 50, a prestigious ranking of top-performing companies traded on the OTCQX Best Market in 2024. Notably, American Rare Earths ranked as the third most traded company among the Best 50, underscoring its strong market presence and growing investor interest.

The OTCQX Best 50 ranks U.S. and international companies based on an equal weighting of one-year total return and average daily dollar volume growth during the previous calendar year. Companies included in this ranking have demonstrated exceptional performance and strong investor engagement.

Chris Gibbs, CEO of American Rare Earths, commented:

“This recognition by the OTCQX highlights our continued progress in reshaping the U.S. rare earths industry and underscores the strategic importance of our Halleck Creek Project. Being ranked as the third most traded company among the Best 50 reflects the growing confidence in our vision to secure a domestic supply chain for critical minerals essential to America’s future.”

“Halleck Creek, with its 2.34 billion tonnes of TREO under JORC standards, is more than a resource—it is a cornerstone of the U.S. rare earths supply chain. Its scale and potential align perfectly with national priorities to reduce reliance on foreign imports, enhance energy independence, and support advanced technologies in clean energy and defense. This recognition reinforces our commitment to delivering sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders and stakeholders.”

For the complete 2025 OTCQX Best 50 ranking, visit: https://www.otcmarkets.com/files/2025_OTCQX_Best_50.pdf.

The OTCQX Best Market provides a platform for transparent and efficient trading of established, investor-focused U.S. and global companies. To qualify for the OTCQX market, companies must meet high financial standards, adhere to best practice corporate governance, and comply with applicable securities laws.

About America Rare Earths

American Rare Earths (ASX: ARR | OTCQX: ARRNF | ADR: AMRRY) owns Wyoming Rare (USA) Inc. which is focused on the development of the Halleck Creek Project, WY.  It also owns La Paz, AZ rare earth deposit.  Both can potentially become the largest and most sustainable rare earth projects in North America.  The Company is developing environmentally friendly and cost-effective extraction and processing methods to meet the rapidly increasing demand for resources essential to the clean energy transition and US national security.  The Company continues to evaluate other exploration opportunities and is collaborating with US Government-supported R&D to develop efficient processing and separation techniques of (REEs) elements to help ensure a renewable future.

Media Contact:
Susan Assadi
347 977 7125
sassadi@americanree.com

Investor Relations US Contact:

Beverly Jedynak
Beverly.jedynak@viriathus.com
312 943 1123

– Published by The MIL Network

Smart Mobility, Seamless Journeys: APAS Leads a New Era for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”

MIL OSI

January 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – The Transport Department of the HKSAR Government recently announced an increase in the daily processing capacity for “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”, raising the limit from 400 to 500 applications per working day, reflecting a growing demand in the market. Automotive Platforms and Application Systems (APAS) R&D Centre has been actively working with professional institutions, industry stakeholders, and technical organisations in Mainland to enhance cooperation regarding the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” initiative. APAS is also exploring the standardisation of electric vehicles (EV) adapters for use in Mainland, aiming to establish a series of safety guidelines for manufacturers and users to ensure that the charging adapters on the market in the market meet safety requirements.

Urgent Demand for EV Charging Adapters

As electric vehicles become more prevalent in Hong Kong, one of the main concerns for car owners driving their EVs to the Mainland is the compatibility of charging equipment. Since most electric vehicles in Hong Kong use Combined Charging System 2 (CCS2), while Mainland uses the GB/T Charging Standard. This results in differences in charging interfaces and communication systems, necessitating the use of additional charging adapters when charging abroad. Suitable charging adaptors are scarce, as there is only a limited number of suppliers offering fast-charging adapters, with prices ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of Hong Kong dollars. However, the specifications of charging adapters in Mainland vary, and even with a fast-charging adapter, it may not provide the proper charging power for the vehicle.

Safety Hazards of Uncertified EV Charging Adapters

APAS has repeatedly alerted car owners about the safety risks associated with uncertified charging facilities. The high DC power, voltage, and current involved in fast-charging electric vehicles present significant hazards. Using non-compliant adapters may cause malfunctions or fire risks. In response to these issues, APAS has been dedicated to research and development in the fields of intelligent connected vehicles and new energy vehicles. Through collaboration and communication with professional organisations, industry stakeholders, and technical institutions, APAS aims to provide higher-quality service and support to car owners in both Mainland and Hong Kong.

Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, remarked, “In recent years, significant improvements in infrastructure have made cross-border travel for ‘Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles’ more convenient. The HKSAR Government’s recent decision to increase the daily processing capacity of applications to 500 demonstrates the growing demand. As the number of electric vehicles continues to rise, drivers need to understand and adapt to the traffic regulations and charging interface standards of both Hong Kong and the Mainland. To address this, APAS has developed specialised charging adapters to ensure a seamless charging experience for drivers. We look forward to using this initiative to promote innovative technology and sustainable development, contributing to Hong Kong’s efforts in building a smart city.”

Industry Experts’ Insights

As the Lunar New Year approaches, many Hong Kong residents may plan to drive to Mainland to celebrate the festive season. In response, APAS’ experts are providing a comprehensive analysis of the latest “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles” policy and important guidelines. Additionally, industry specialists from the automotive and insurance sectors have been invited to share their professional insights.

Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group, noted, “With the growing presence of electric vehicles in the market, the variety of charging connectors and adapter options has significantly expanded. We are delighted to see APAS taking the lead as an industry pioneer, focusing on the development of EV charging adapters. I look forward to seeing more groundbreaking research from APAS in the future, contributing to the advancement of the industry and enhancing the consumer experience.”

Moreover, Mr Harley KWAN, President of Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association shared that there are significant differences between the automotive insurance systems in Mainland and Hong Kong. In Hong Kong, car insurance typically focuses on third-party liability coverage, with a wide range of insurance products available, allowing consumers to choose based on their individual needs. In contrast, the insurance system in Mainland is more standardised, with a greater emphasis on comprehensiveness, and differing regulations regarding coverage amounts and claims procedures. He stated, ” With the increasing prevalence of electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies, the insurance industry must adapt to new challenges. We are committed to working closely with relevant organisations to ensure that electric vehicle owners receive comprehensive coverage, supporting the healthy growth of the market.” As such, Hong Kong residents should prepare ahead of time before driving to Mainland, familiarising themselves with the differences in insurance policies between the two places to ensure they are fully protected while also safeguarding others.

Future Regulations for Charging Adapters

In response to the regulations surrounding charging adapters, APAS plans to establish a set of guidelines aimed at enhancing the safety and convenience of charging systems, ensuring that vehicle owners enjoy the best possible experience. APAS is committed to more standardised management of charging adapters in the future to safeguard the safety of car owners. The goal is to further improve the driving experience and enable more private car owners to enjoy convenient and safe cross-border travel services.

Download High-Resolution Photos HERE

Photo 1:
In his welcome speech, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, highlighted that with the continuous increase in the number of electric vehicles, it is important for owners to understand the differences in traffic regulations and charging interface standards between the Mainland and Hong Kong. To address this, APAS has developed a specialised charging adapter to ensure that vehicle owners can seamlessly use charging facilities. APAS looks forward to promoting innovative technology and sustainable development through this event and contributing to the development of a smart city in Hong Kong.

Photo 2:
Mr Ralph Xu, Head of Green Transportation of APAS discusses the regulations and requirements for electric vehicle charging adapters and demonstrates the electric vehicle charging adapter equipment.

Photo 3:
Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group and Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, shares insights on the impact of “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”. They discussed the claims procedures for Hong Kong vehicle owners involved in accidents in the Mainland and offered valuable suggestions for future collaboration between the industry and APAS.

Photo 4:
(From Left) Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS and Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group shared the latest policy and the insurance about the “Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles”.

Photo 5:
(From Left) Mr Harley KWAN, President of the Hong Kong Insurance Intermediaries Association, Mr Yonghai DU, Chief Executive Officer of APAS, Mr Paul LAW, MH, Chairman of Olympic (Motor) Group and Mr Ralph Xu, Head of Green Transportation of APAS.

About APAS Electric Vehicle Charging Adapters Specifications:

Model Specifications
System Parameters
Rated Power	150Kw
Rated Voltage	1000V
Voltage Range	200-1000V
Current	250A
Protection Rating	IP54
Input Interface	GB/T 20234.3-2015
Output Interface	CCS Type 2 (IEC 62196-3 Combo)
Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature	-10°C to 40°C
Storage Temperature	-40°C to 70°C
Relative Humidity	0-95%
Other
Dimensions	306X92X122 mm
Net Weight	< 1.5kg

Hashtag: #APAS

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

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

Chaoyang District of Beijing Strives to Build a World-Class Waterfront Economic Zone

MIL OSI

January 17, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – Throughout history, cities have flourished by embracing the power of water. Over the past few decades, waterfront cities worldwide have leveraged their unique development conditions and strategic opportunities to explore and implement innovative approaches to revitalizing riverside areas. The development of world-class waterfront zones, exemplified by the Seine River in Paris, showcases added value in industries, culture, and innovation.

Chaoyang District of Beijing is dedicated to establishing a world-class “Two Rivers, One Belt” waterfront economic zone.

From the era of handicraft economies to today’s age of creative economies, waterfront spaces have played an increasingly pivotal role in urban development. Recently, Chaoyang District of Beijing announced its plans to establish a world-class “Two Rivers, One Belt” waterfront economic zone. In the future, the Ba River and Liangma River within the district will be connected, allowing citizens and visitors to travel by yacht from Jiuxianqiao to the city’s sub-center.

With its rich water resources, Chaoyang District in Beijing has embraced the principles of extensive urban renewal and large-scale accessibility. Through the restoration of its rivers, it has revitalized urban spaces and created 23 kilometers of beautifully designed scenic corridors along the Empress Dowager Xiao River, Liangma River, Ba River, and Tonghui Canal. These efforts have boosted activity along the banks, revitalized industries, and spurred consumption. The Liangma River has now become a hallmark destination, while the Tonghui Canal, Ba River, and Beixiao River have also undergone significant transformations.

Building on this foundation, Chaoyang District aims to accelerate the implementation of new and reserve projects by 2025, creating and shaping a world-class “Two Rivers, One Belt” waterfront economic zone.

The Two Rivers: Efforts will be made to enhance the brand influence of the Liangma River and Ba River. The Liangma River’s international riverside charm will be further enriched, with improvements from the Fourth Ring Road to the Ba River section, opening a 22-kilometer scenic cruise route along the Liangma River. Construction along the Ba River will also be expedited, with the full opening of the Jiuxianqiao Road to Langyuan section. Renovation will extend from Langyuan East to Xingba Road, creating a 15-kilometer yacht route along the Ba River, connecting to the city’s sub-center.

The One Belt: The plan focuses on enhancing and strengthening the Liangma River Cultural and Economic Belt. Phase three of the Liangma River cruise route (3 kilometers from Blue Harbor Marina to South Lake in Chaoyang Park) will be accelerated. Key commercial projects, such as the Sina Weibo Esports Center in Chaoyang Park, No.8 Manor, and the Ferris wheel, will be fast-tracked. The Liuliwan area will be carefully developed to connect five major commercial zones—Sanlitun, Yansha, Blue Harbor, Liuliwan, and Langyuan—forming a diversified, multifunctional urban district.

In the future, this area is set to become a more dynamic and vibrant world-class waterfront economic zone. Chaoyang District remains committed to openness and collaboration, forging connections with the world and its people. We look forward to welcoming you to share in its promising future.

Hashtag: #ChaoyangDistrict

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

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

Empowering Cambodia’s Next Leaders: Chen Zhi Scholarship Applications Now Open for 2025

MIL OSI

January 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – Prince Foundation announced applications are open for the Chen Zhi Scholarship Program’s fourth batch, aiming to support 100 Cambodian university students in 2025. The program, initiated by Prince Holding Group Chairman Chen Zhi, provides full academic funding for high-achieving students from underprivileged backgrounds.

Prince Foundation has announced that online applications are now open for the fourth batch of the Chen Zhi Scholarship Program, which aims to provide support to 100 Cambodian university students in 2025.

The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sport (MoEYS) partners with Prince Foundation to select qualified candidates. Recipients receive tuition coverage, monthly living allowances, professional development training and internship opportunities.

Prince Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on education, healthcare and community engagement initiatives across Cambodia, having invested more than $17 million in various social development programs targeting youth, families and local communities.

Three previous batches have supported 300 students, with recipients pursuing degrees in technology, business and engineering. The program represents a $2 million commitment over seven years.

“The Chen Zhi Scholarship Program aims to create pathways for talented young Cambodians to access quality education and contribute to their communities,” said Gabriel Tan, Head of Prince Foundation. “Our focus is on developing skilled professionals in sectors crucial to Cambodia’s economic growth.”

Eligible applicants must:
– Hold Cambodian citizenship
– Have completed the 2023/2024 Bac II examination
– Gain admission to approved programs at partner universities

Partner institutions and eligible programs include:
– Royal University of Phnom Penh: Information Technology Engineering, Computer Science, International Business Management, Media and Communications
– Institute of Technology of Cambodia: Civil Engineering
– National University of Management: Digital Economy and Tourism

Online Applications open from January 15 through February 15, 2025. Final interviews will occur in early March, with recipients announced later that month.

Hashtag: #PrinceFoundation #ChenZhiScholarship #CSR #Education

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

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

Global finance leaders set tone for 2025 at the Asian Financial Forum

MIL OSI

January 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – The 18^th Asian Financial Forum (AFF) concluded successfully on January 14 after a two-day run at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, which drew more than 3,600 participants, including over 130 high-level speakers, and facilitated 700-plus one-on-one AFF Deal-making meetings to link up sources of funds with investment projects around the globe.

The Asian Financial Forum draws 3,600-plus policymakers and business leaders from over 50 countries and regions.

Co-organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) under the theme Powering the Next Growth Engine, the atmosphere at AFF “was vibrant and charged with positive energy”.

As the year’s first large-scale international financial and business event in the region, AFF 2025 leveraged Hong Kong’s role as an international financial centre to strengthen the international communication platform, foster multilateral cooperation and promote mutually beneficial outcomes.

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee met with visiting senior officials of foreign governments and the President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Jin Liqun, expressing gratitude to them for serving as speakers at the AFF. Mr Lee said that as a member of the AIIB, Hong Kong would make good use of its own robust financial system and unique advantages in bridging Eastern and Western cultures to contribute to the long-term development of the AIIB.

In line with the HKSAR Government’s initiatives to promote sustainable development, one of the sessions featured experts including Sue Lloyd, Vice Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), who delved into the adoption of financial disclosure standards to enhance confidence in Hong Kong’s capital markets.

Another highlight of AFF 2025 was the inaugural Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Chapter, connecting finance leaders from Hong Kong and GCC member states with a view to strengthening bilateral financial cooperation and investment.

The first-ever Gulf Cooperation Council Chapter is successfully held at the Asian Financial Forum on January 14.

In addition, pioneers from a range of industries participated in sessions such as CIO Insights, Dialogues for Tomorrow and Global Spectrum, focusing on hot topics ranging from fintech and capital markets to female entrepreneurship and philanthropy. In a session titled Global Spectrum – The Role of Large Companies in Supporting Start-ups and Social Enterprises, Joe Tsai, Chairman of the Alibaba Group, shared his views on how large companies spur economic development.

This year’s AFF Deal-making, co-organised by the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Venture Capital and Private Equity Association, brought together more than 270 investors and over 560 investment projects with more than 700 one-on-one meetings held. They covered a wide spectrum of sectors such as fintech, healthtech, deep tech, consumer goods, infrastructure and real estate, environment, energy and environmental technology.

The lively atmosphere at the venue was enhanced by the presence of several on-site exhibition zones, which helped to create business connections and promote networking. They included the Fintech Showcase, Fintech HK Startup Salon, the InnoVenture Salon, and the Global Investment Zone. Among the 140 exhibitors were international financial institutions, technology companies, start-ups and investment promotion agencies.

The AFF is a signature event of 2025 International Financial Week, which runs from January 13 to 17 and brings together more than 20 partner events to create synergies in the industry. Three other events which ran concurrently with the AFF include Hong Kong International Fundraising Roundtable 2025, Malaysia–Hong Kong Islamic Finance Roundtable, and the Family Office Symposium.

https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-hong-kong/
https://x.com/Brand_HK/
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https://www.instagram.com/brandhongkong

Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #aff #asianfinancialforum #finance

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

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

Make Your Moment: OPPO Announces Lamine Yamal as Global Brand Ambassador

MIL OSI

January 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 January 2025 – OPPO today announced 17-year-old Spanish football prodigy, Lamine Yamal, as its global brand ambassador. In his new role, Yamal will play a pivotal part in OPPO’s “Make Your Moment” brand refresh initiative, working with OPPO to inspire more young people worldwide to seize the present, channel their passion into action, and create their own extraordinary stories for the future.

Yamal with the OPPO Find X8 Pro engraved with his name and jersey number.

“Lamine is not just a gifted footballer but an inspirational young man with an incredible passion for the game,” said Billy Zhang, President of Overseas Marketing, Sales and Services at OPPO. “Like countless young people worldwide, Lamine refuses to be held back by anxiety or uncertainty about the future. Instead, he focuses on his passions and concentrates his energy on the present, finding fulfillment and strength through his dedication.”

OPPO Opens a New Chapter with Yamal

Since breaking onto the international stage in 2023, Yamal has not only captivated football fans worldwide with his stunning performances, but also earned admiration for his humility and maturity. Despite the packed schedule and immense pressures that come with being one of the world’s top footballers, Yamal has remained dedicated to his studies, and in response to the wave of fame and attention, he believes that “the best way to handle it all is to focus on the work at hand and stay present”.

To OPPO, Yamal represents more than just talent; he embodies the pursuit of authenticity and individuality. Following his recovery from a recent injury, he approached challenges with a fresh perspective, prioritizing disciplined training and thorough preparation to make his comeback in top form. This commitment to responsibility and mindfulness aligns perfectly with OPPO’s “Make Your Moment” philosophy, making him the ideal choice as the global brand ambassador.

Since 2015, OPPO has been expanding its brand collaboration in the world of sports, including its partnership with the UEFA Champions League. By combining its cutting-edge AI and imaging technology with the passion and energy of sport, OPPO is creating unparalleled experiences for fans worldwide. The partnership with Yamal not only brings together sports and technology but also strengthens the connection between the brand and younger generations to inspire young fans globally to make their moment.

Giving Back Through Football

Every time Yamal scores a goal, he celebrates with his signature “304” hand gesture, paying tribute to the post code of his hometown, Rocafonda. The simple but meaningful gesture reflects Yamal’s deep connection to his roots and serves as a source of pride and inspiration for aspiring young footballers who share his love for the game.

As OPPO global brand ambassador, Yamal will channel this same attitude into a series of football-related community initiatives designed to spread the “Make Your Moment” spirit to even more people. These efforts aim to support grassroots football development while supporting facilities upgrades and calling on young people to submit creative ideas for football charity projects, empowering them to bring innovation and energy to football philanthropy. Additionally, Yamal’s stunning images will be featured on OPPO’s AI Studio platform, giving fans the unique opportunity to “become Yamal’s teammate” and experience the passion and joy that football brings.

OPPO Refreshes Brand Amid Continuing Global Success

The new “Make Your Moment” brand slogan comes as OPPO continues to expand its presence globally. Currently, the company operates in over 70 countries and regions, with more than 300,000 retail spaces worldwide. OPPO’s overseas shipments account for approximately 60% of its total volume. Helping to drive this success is the growing popularity of products such as the recently launched Find X8 series, which has garnered widespread acclaim globally thanks to its outstanding camera features, gaming performance, and battery life.

OPPO’s close involvement with football, particularly its partnership with the UEFA Champions League, has enabled the brand to break new ground. By bringing together its advanced technology with the energy of football, OPPO has created new technology experiences to resonate closely with global fans.

OPPO’s collaboration with Lamine Yamal extends this close synergy between technology and the passion of sport. From the football field to everyday life, OPPO continues to pay tribute to the power of young people, empowering them with technology and passion to seize every moment and shine in their unique way.

Hashtag: #OPPO #LamineYamal

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