EB5 Capital Litigates USCIS’ Recent EB-5 Filing Fee Increases

WASHINGTON, April 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On April 22, 2024, EB5 Capital, along with Invest in the USA (IIUSA), the national EB-5 trade association serving the majority of active Regional Centers, and ten other Regional Centers, filed a lawsuit against the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The lawsuit, Civitas Capital Group et al. vs. USCIS et al., was filed in the District Court for the Northern District of Texas and challenges the “Final Rule” issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that concerns government filing fees for EB-5 related petitions.

The Final Rule issued by DHS on January 31, 2024, which went into effect on April 1, 2024, revised USCIS’ filing fees for all petitions and applications adjudicated by the agency. Civitas Capital Group et al. vs. USCIS et al. argues that the fee increases for EB-5 related petitions in this Final Rule are far greater both in dollar amounts and in percentage increase compared to any of the other increases in filing fees announced in this rule. “It is essential that USCIS abide by the rule of law in promulgating regulations. Its ongoing failure to do so diminishes the impact and integrity of the EB-5 Program,” commented Lulu Gordon, General Counsel for EB5 Capital. The lawsuit argues that the new fee structure violates several federal laws, including the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022 (RIA), the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA), the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), and the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), as well as internal guidelines established by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

“These increased fees are unreasonable and will burden our current and future investors,” said Ishaan Khanna, EB5 Capital’s Director of Business Development. Ishaan Khanna’s non-profit organization, The American Immigrant Investor Alliance (AIIA), which advocates for EB-5 investors’ rights, previously filed a similar lawsuit against USCIS in March.

For more information, a copy Civitas Capital Group et al. vs. USCIS et al. is available here.

About EB5 Capital

EB5 Capital provides qualified foreign investors with opportunities to invest in job-creating commercial real estate projects under the United States Immigrant Investor Program (EB-5 Visa Program). Headquartered in Washington, DC, EB5 Capital’s distinguished track record and leadership in the industry has attracted investors from over 75 countries. As one of the oldest and most active Regional Center operators in the country, the firm has raised over $1 billion of foreign capital across approximately 40 EB-5 projects. 100% of our investors’ funds are protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) insurance prior to their deployment into our projects. Please visit www.eb5capital.com for more information.  

Contact:
Katherine Willis
Director, Marketing & Communications
media@eb5capital.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9107671

Arqit announces collaboration to deliver out-of-the-box post-quantum cryptography solutions

LONDON, April 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arqit Quantum Inc. (Nasdaq: ARQQ, ARQQW) (Arqit), a leader in quantum-safe encryption, today announced the creation of the World’s First Quantum-Safe, 1.89 Tb IPsec products collaborating with Intel.

Arqit and Intel have joined forces for out-of-the-box post-quantum cryptography solutions using Arqit’s Symmetric Key Agreement Platform (SKA-Platform™) running on Intel Xeon Scalable processors. Combining Intel technologies with Arqit’s SKA-Platform™ achieves high-performance IPsec encryption, protecting against quantum attacks without compromising speed.

To find our more, join the Intel and Arqit webinar on 30th April 2024 REGISTER

David Williams, Arqit Founder, Chairman and CEO said:
“Our collaboration with Intel delivers the groundbreaking introduction of the world’s inaugural quantum-safe, 1.89 Tb IPsec solution. Cyber threats continue to become more sophisticated, including the imminent advent of quantum computing, enterprises seek robust defences. Our joint effort with Intel provides off-the-shelf products that not only harden networks but also make them quantum-safe whilst adhering to core standards like RFC 8784.”

Notes to Editors

Arqit representatives will be attending RSA (6-9 May 2024) and will be available for interview. www.rsaconference.com/usa.

Intel, the Intel logo, and other Intel marks are trademarks of Intel Corporation or its subsidiaries.

About Arqit

Arqit Quantum Inc. (Nasdaq: ARQQ, ARQQW) (Arqit) supplies a unique encryption software service which makes the communications links of any networked device, cloud machine or data at rest secure against both current and future forms of attack on encryption – even from a quantum computer. Compatible with NSA CSfC Components and meeting the demands of NSA CSfC Symmetric Key Management Requirements Annexe 1.2. and RFC 8784, Arqit’s Symmetric Key Agreement Platform uses a lightweight software agent that allows end point devices to create encryption keys locally in partnership with any number of other devices. The keys are computationally secure and facilitate Zero Trust Network Access. It can create limitless volumes of keys with any group size and refresh rate and can regulate the secure entrance and exit of a device in a group. The agent is lightweight and will thus run on the smallest of end point devices. The product sits within a growing portfolio of granted patents. It also works in a standards compliant manner which does not oblige customers to make a disruptive rip and replace of their technology. Arqit is winner of two GSMA Global Mobile Awards, The Best Mobile Security Solution and The CTO Choice Award for Outstanding Mobile Technology, at Mobile World Congress 2024, recognised for groundbreaking innovation at the 2023 Institution of Engineering and Technology Awards and winner of the National Cyber Awards’ Innovation in Cyber Award and the Cyber Security Awards’ Cyber Security Software Company of the Year Award. Arqit is ISO 27001 Standard certified. www.arqit.uk

Media relations enquiries:
Arqit: pr@arqit.uk

Investor relations enquiries:
Arqit: investorrelations@arqit.uk
Gateway: arqit@gateway-grp.com

Caution About Forward-Looking Statements

This communication includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on Arqit’s expectations and beliefs concerning future events and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations. These factors are difficult to predict accurately and may be beyond Arqit’s control. Forward-looking statements in this communication or elsewhere speak only as of the date made. New uncertainties and risks arise from time to time, and it is impossible for Arqit to predict these events or how they may affect it. Except as required by law, Arqit does not have any duty to, and does not intend to, update or revise the forward-looking statements in this communication or elsewhere after the date this communication is issued. In light of these risks and uncertainties, investors should keep in mind that results, events or developments discussed in any forward-looking statement made in this communication may not occur. Uncertainties and risk factors that could affect Arqit’s future performance and cause results to differ from the forward-looking statements in this release include, but are not limited to: (i) the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against the Arqit, (ii) the ability to maintain the listing of Arqit’s securities on a national securities exchange, (iii) changes in the competitive and regulated industries in which Arqit operates, variations in operating performance across competitors and changes in laws and regulations affecting Arqit’s business, (iv) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations, and identify and realise additional opportunities, (v) the potential inability of Arqit to successfully deliver its operational technology, (vi) the risk of interruption or failure of Arqit’s information technology and communications system, (vii) the enforceability of Arqit’s intellectual property, and (viii) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in Arqit’s annual report on Form 20-F (the “Form 20-F”), filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on 21 November 2023 and in subsequent filings with the SEC. While the list of factors discussed above and in the Form 20-F and other SEC filings are considered representative, no such list should be considered to be a complete statement of all potential risks and uncertainties. Unlisted factors may present significant additional obstacles to the realisation of forward-looking statements.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9107084

Sahm, Top Trading App in KSA, Launches Extensive Promotional Campaign

RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2024 – Sahm, the all-in-one trading app licensed by the Saudi Arabian Capital Market Authority (CMA), is excited to announce its largest promotional campaign to date. Users who open an account during the event will receive lifelong commission-free trading for the Saudi Market and claim free Snapchat shares upon depositing a specified amount.

Sahm launches massive promotional campaign in KSA.

Sahm is powered by Sahm Capital Financial Company (formerly known as VCFC), which operates in activities related to dealing, custody, and advisory services in securities, under the license granted by the CMA, number (22251-25) issued on October 19, 2022. The app simplifies trading for investors of all skill levels, seamlessly integrating Saudi and U.S. shares, real-time data, robust analysis, various education courses and breaking news.

In addition to the lifelong commission-free trading of Saudi stock, users who deposit SAR 5,000 will receive free Snap Inc. shares worth approximately $50. Furthermore, users who open an account during the event will also receive free real-time U.S. quotes for one year.

Since its launch in December 2023, Sahm app has quickly become one of the most popular stock trading platforms in KSA, ranking in the Top 3 financial apps in both the App Store and Google Play. Sahm app distinguishes itself as the first app in KSA to offer one-click quick switching between Saudi and U.S. stock accounts in real time for both trading and currency conversion. Additionally, the app enables users to create Conditional Orders, a sophisticated and powerful trading tool previously only available on professional trading desks.

To take advantage of this limited-time offer, visit https://www.sahmcapital.com/activitiesr/pre-activity-new?urlType=1&activityId=74&_scnl=1110844&lang=en-US and open an account to claim rewards. 

About Sahm Capital:

Registered in Riyadh, Sahm Capital (formerly known as VCFC) is a joint venture company of Valuable Capital Group Ltd and eWTP Arabia Capital. In October 2023, Sahm Capital received final approval from the Capital Market Authority (CMA) to conduct Dealing, Advising, and Custody services in KSA, making it the first international online brokerage firm to provide online brokerage services in KSA. The company is also a registered member of the Saudi Stock Exchange, Tadawul, as well as its affiliates, the Securities Depository Center Company (Edaa) and the Securities Clearing Center Company (Muqassa). For more information about Sahm, please visit: https://www.sahmcapital.com/

Getting Ready: LUX Helps Female Ex-Offenders Reintegrate Back to Society

LUX Launches ‘Getting Ready’ Campaign to Inspire Ex-offenders to Re-embrace Beauty and Re-enter Society with Confidence

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 April 2024 – LUX, the global beauty brand by Unilever, is proud to launch its new female empowerment campaign, ‘Getting Ready’ today. Through this campaign, LUX, has designed a programme to help women ex-offenders to re-embrace beauty to re-enter society with confidence and dignity. Driven by the belief that Beauty can be a powerful source of strength and by its commitment to promote inclusivity, LUX hopes to empower women ex-offenders to face challenges ahead with strength.Beauty is not just about how the world sees women, it also defines how women see the world. Aligning with this belief, LUX stands as an avid advocate for women to leverage beauty as a source of strength. Yet, women offenders are completely stripped of their femininity and beauty along with their freedom. Nobody needs to harness strength from beauty more than the women ex-offenders who have just been released. This is why LUX and VML Singapore have embarked on the ‘Getting Ready’ project to help women ex-offenders restore their sense of self-worth and identity to better assimilate back into society.

‘Getting Ready’ extends beyond helping women ex-offenders rediscover their beauty. It is a movement challenging social expectations and stereotypes surrounding this marginalised female community.

The ‘Getting Ready’ programme comprises four modules to help women ex-offenders unlock their confidence and build their personal brand as they start their second life. The modules cover tools to overcome negative thought patterns; hard skills to tackle career goals and employment; improving social skills and communication; and image building, with establishing a beauty routine and finding their own style playing a big part in helping the women look good and feel good. In addition, LUX will be equipping these women with hair and beauty essentials to encourage personal grooming. Proper grooming through the act of enjoying a refreshing shower and soaking in the fragrance is the simplest form of self-care women can indulge in to foster their sense of self-worth. Though seemingly mundane, the act of dedicating time to clean and rejuvenate oneself helps women to forge self-love and boost confidence in their own beauty.

The first batch of women who underwent the ‘Getting Ready’ programme had their experience documented in a film which traced their journey of self-discovery and uplifting change. With this documentary, LUX hopes to reach a wider audience and spread awareness about the struggles and stigma these women ex-offenders face on a day-to-day basis, and the support they need to better reintegrate into society.

“Many women ex-offenders struggle with re-entering society and starting afresh as they have lost sight of their sense of self-worth and are unable to live life with dignity. This is in addition to having to deal with the uncertainties shrouding their new life,” said Severine Vauleon, Global Brand Vice President LUX “With Getting Ready, we would like to give these women a chance to properly live their life beyond the label. By helping them cultivate a positive relationship with their individual beauty and self-image, we hope that these women can find themselves and their footing in society again.”

“’Getting Ready’ is not just about helping women ex-offenders regain self-respect; it’s also about initiating discourse about the plight these women face and how we can all involve ourselves in changing unforgiving societal perception.” Hinoti Joshi, Global Managing Partner, VML Singapore, who spearheaded the campaign, commented.

‘Getting Ready’ is a campaign transcending social boundaries and re-instilling hope in women. The impact of this campaign extends far beyond transforming the lives of ex-offenders, but also sparks conversations about providing support to the marginalised female communities out there. Join LUX in its movement to uplift and celebrate the beauty and strength of women everywhere with ‘Getting Ready’.

For more information, please view the videos:

India – https://youtu.be/6MkDCdUDsGk

Indo – https://youtu.be/54woTcut2CM

About LUX

LUX has been celebrating beauty and femininity since 1925. We understand that beauty is a woman’s armour, her source of strength. It is hers to express, unapologetically. We will continue to help women everywhere fight casual sexism at home, in the workplace and in wider society.

‫رأس المال الخاص السعودي يركز بشكل متزايد على النمو الداخلي في عام 2024 وما بعده – تقرير Preqin

نمو عدد الصفقات الداخلية في المملكة العربية السعودية بمعدل ستة أضعاف في الفترة بين 2018 و2023

لندن, April 29, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

نشرت شركة Preqin، الرائدة عالميًا في مجال البيانات والرؤى البديلة، تقريرًا بعنوان نهوض رأس المال الخاص في المملكة العربية السعودية.

يلخص التقرير إلى موضوعين رئيسيين يعززان مستقبل مكانة المملكة في مشهد رأس المال الخاص: الموضوع الأول هو تعزيز حكومة المملكة ومستثمريها وشركاتها للشراكات مع مدراء الصناديق من أجل توفير المزيد من المعارف وتطوير البنى التحتية والاستثمارات المشتركة في الدولة. ويرى مدراء الصناديق أن المملكة أصبحت الآن أكثر من مجرد موقع لجمع رأس مال المستثمرين. الموضوع الثاني هو إقبال المملكة على الاستثمارات الداخلية من خلال الأسواق الخاصة،

والتي تواصل النمو مع ريادة الأعمال الداخلية والفرص الاستثمارية.

الدور الجديد لرأس المال الخاص ومدراء الصناديق في المملكة

يحقق مشروع رؤية المملكة 2030 التي تقوده الحكومة هدف زيادة التنويع الاقتصادي والاجتماعي والثقافي في الوقت الذي تنتقل فيه المملكة لحقبة ما بعد “ذروة النفط”. وتمثل الأسواق الخاصة عنصرًا رئيسيًا لهذا الانتقال.

وعلى مدار ما يربو على 30 عامًا، أثبتت المملكة أنها واحدة من الوجهات الأكثر موثوقية لجمع رأس المال الخاص. لكن في عام 2024، ستعزز المملكة هذه العلاقة التاريخية مع مدراء الصناديق من خلال توطيد التعاون معهم بالتركيز على نشر رأس المال محليًا لتعزيز المشاريع الاقتصادية، ما يساهم في إنجاز المملكة لطموحات رؤية 2030.

لقد أدرك مدراء الصناديق أهمية استغلال مسار النمو الذي تشهده المملكة خلال السنوات الأخيرة. ففي الفترة بين 2018 ويناير 2024، تظهر بيانات Preqin أن عدد مدراء الصناديق في المملكة شهد زيادة بمعدل 213% أي ارتفع من 47 إلى 147 مدير صندوق.

الإقبال على الاستثمار الداخلي: حقوق الملكية الخاصة وصفقات رأس المال الجريء

وفي معرض تعليقه على هذه المناسبة، يقول ديفيد دوكينز، المؤلف الرئيسي للتقرير لدى Preqin: “تسعى المملكة العربية السعودية في عام 2024 بشكل متزايد إلى استخدام رأس المال الخاص لدعم فئة رواد الأعمال الناشئة في الدولة من أجل الاستعداد للحياة بعد عصر النفط. وفي سبيل المساعدة على بناء الأعمال المحلية وإيجاد فرص العمل للشباب، يسعى المستثمرون في المنطقة إلى التعاون مع مدراء المشاريع لنقل المعارف وتطوير البنية التحتية والاستثمار المشترك”.

بنهاية عام 2023، انغلقت الفجوة بشكل شبه تام بين عدد صفقات حقوق الملكية الخاصة وصفقات رأس المال الجريء التي أكملها المستثمرون السعوديون محليًا، مقارنة بالمستثمرين بالخارج. تم عقد 118 صفقة في المملكة و119 صفقة في الخارج، خلال عام 2023. وبالمقارنة، عقدت المملكة 100 صفقة حقوق ملكية خاصة ورأس مال جريء محليًا و151 صفقة بالخارج خلال عام 2022.

لقد أثبتت المملكة أنها نجم ساطع خلال “شتاء” رأس المال الجريء في الفترة من 2020 إلى 2023 حين تباطأت الصفقات على مستوى العالم. بلغت القيمة الإجمالية لصفقات رأس المال الجريء في المملكة 1.02 مليار دولار أمريكي في عام 2023، مرتفعة من 794 مليون دولار أمريكي في عام 2022.

تشمل الاستنتاجات الرئيسية الإضافية لتقرير نهوض رأس المال الخاص في المملكة العربية السعودية: دليل منطقة Preqin:

  • الاستثمارات المشتركة لرأس المال الجريء: تم عقد 47 صفقة رأسمال جريء بين مدراء الصناديق غير السعوديين والمستثمرين السعوديين في الفترة من 2018 إلى 2023. وقد تمت ثلاثة أرباع الصفقات تقريبًا، أي 34 صفقة من بين 47 صفقة في الفترة بين 2021 و2023، مما يبرز زخم هذا الاتجاه في عام 2024 وما بعده.
  • صفقات رأس المال الجريء البارزة: لقد أصبحت منصة تمارا المتخصصة في المدفوعات البنكية والتسوق، أول شركة مليارية متخصصة في التقنيات المالية بعد تأمين حصولها على 340 مليون دولار أمريكي في جولة تمويل حقوق ملكية من الفئة C في ديسمبر 2023.
  • عدد مدراء رأس المال الخاص الذين يركزون على السعودية: بنهاية عام 2021، كان هناك 131 مدير نشط يركز على نشر رأس المال في المملكة. وبحلول يناير 2024، بلغ عدد المدراء 276 مديراً، بما يمثل زيادة بنسبة 111% على مدار الفترة.

إذا كنت ترغب الحصول على مزيد من المعلومات أو إذا كنت تود التحدث إلى مؤلف التقرير، يرجى الاتصال بدون بولز على dawn.bowles@preqin.com.

نبذة عن Preqin

تُمكّن شركة Preqin، المتخصصة في الأصول البديلة Home of Alternatives™”، المهنيين الماليين الذين يستثمرون أو يكرسون أنفسهم للأصول البديلة، من خلال بيانات ورؤى أساسية لاتخاذ قرارات مستنيرة. وهي توفر الدعم لهم خلال دورة الحياة الكاملة للاستثمارات من خلال معلومات هامة وحلول تحليلية رائدة. لقد حققت الشركة الريادة في مجال الأساليب الدقيقة لجمع بيانات الخاصة على مدار 20 عامًا، بما يعمل على تمكين أكثر من 200,000 مهني على مستوى العالم لتبسيط طريقة جمعهم لرأس المال والحصول على الصفقات والاستثمارات وفهم الأداء ومداومة الاطلاع على المستجدات. لمزيد من المعلومات، يرجى زيارة www.preqin.com.

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 1000947294

Qatar Takes Part in 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair


The Ministry of Culture has participated in the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024 which kicked off on Monday at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre under the theme: “Where World Tales Unfold” and will continue until May 5.

The event brings together a host of Qatari publishing houses, namely Dar Al Watad, Qatar University Press, and Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press, with the pavilion of the Ministry showcasing the Qatari intellectual production, promoting the ministry’s e-library as well as cultural communication.

Director of the Ministry of Culture’s Libraries Department Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain said the Ministry of Culture has been keen on taking part in such international fairs that highlight aspects of the Qatari literature and culture. The Qatari pavilion showcases a wide range of old and new releases in multiple sciences, such as novels, law, social and humanitarian sciences, in addition to the outstanding releases of children and boys’ literature.

Al Buainain pointed out that the ministr
y’s participation aims to forge ties with entities working in the areas of culture and press, in addition to showcasing the Qatari knowledge production through the publishing houses.

This year’s fair has chosen the Egyptian writer Naguib Mahfouz as the pivotal figure whose publications that were translated into most languages had nurtured the Arabic libraries and grabbed the attention to the vibrant Arabic literature.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Today’s newspapers focus on PM’s participation in the World Economic Forum and his meetings with leaders and representatives of major companies

Newspapers published in Baghdad today, Monday, April 29, focused on the participation of Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani in the World Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia and his meetings with leaders of countries and representatives of major international companies.

Al-Sabah newspaper, which is published by the Iraqi Media Network, published an article by the writer Ahmed Abdel Hussein, under the title ‘al-Sudani in al-Riyadh Forum’, stated that: ‘Iraq’s participation in the World Economic Forum, which was held yesterday in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, is an important progress in terms of expanding Iraq’s participation in the world events after long decades of absence and disappearance.’

He added: “The features of this return can be drawn in the steps taken by Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani during the past two weeks, the most recent of which is consolidating the partnership with America during his visit to Washington, which was immediately followed by the signing of a strategic partnership with Tu
rkey during the Turkish President’s visit to Baghdad.”

The article continued: ‘The economics section is the broadest for those who want healthy, fruitful relations, and for those who want to fold the old system of alliances that has placed the country in a critical corner that has kept it at a long time from optimally exploiting its wealth, and also kept it from investing its political and economic presence in imposing itself as a player of great importance in its region and the world.’

He pointed out: ‘The forum is examining ways to achieve economic growth and invest energy for development, and for this reason Iraq is concerned with it, perhaps more than other countries, because our real bet is how to manage the wheel of development by investing in our natural wealth, which is oil, which is the mainstay of our economy. And because the conference came directly after the strong boost that the development road project al-Sudani -Erdogan’s meeting in Baghdad.’

Al-Zawraa newspaper, published by the Iraqi Journ
alists Syndicate, referred, in the context of its follow-up of PM’s participation in the World Economic Forum, to his meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

It stated, quoting a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, that during the meeting they discussed bilateral relations between the two countries, the importance of consolidating them, and reviewing the files of joint cooperation and its growth within the work of the Iraqi-Saudi Coordination Council, which resulted in several understandings in various fields, noting: ‘al-Sudani expressed Iraq’s aspiration for broader economic cooperation with the Kingdom, which contributes to enhancing growth and provides new opportunities in various economic fields, which reflects the interests of the two brotherly countries and the prosperity of their people.

It also followed the meeting with the Prime Minister and Emir of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, and they discussed bilateral relations and ways to develop and adv
ance them, for the benefit of the two brotherly peoples, by investing in the historical and social neighborhood that links Iraq and Kuwait, and emphasizing the importance of maintaining good-neighborly relations and exchange mutual respect, in addition to their discussion of the latest developments in the region, especially what is happening in the Gaza Strip in terms of the ongoing Zionist aggression that has caused thousands of martyrs and wounded, and the importance of taking a unified Arab position in order to end the tragedies of the Palestinian people.’

Al-Zawraa indicated that Al-Sudani received, at his residence in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, the CEO of Vertical Future, which specializes in agricultural technology and vertical farming, Jimmy Burrows, on the sidelines of his participation in the World Economic Forum.

He was quoted as saying: ‘Agriculture constitutes a priority in the government program, and the government has taken several measures and steps to develop the agricultural sector and intr
oduce modern methods in agriculture and irrigation, in addition to supporting farmers and the private sector concerned with agriculture, which represents one of the pillars of the Iraqi economy.’

In another matter, Al-Zaman newspaper followed the procedures of the Ministry of Water Resources to enhance the water situation and confront its challenges.

In this regard, it quoted the Minister of Water Resources, Aoun Dhiyab, as saying at the Fourth Baghdad International Water Conference: ‘The Ministry is currently focusing on sustaining water and distributing it fairly, within the framework of addressing the challenges facing this file, in conjunction with the effects of climate change on Iraq.’

He confirmed that a number of measures had been taken to communicate with neighboring countries regarding the water issue, indicating: ‘Iraq needs to strengthen communication with neighboring countries to address the water crisis.’

He added: ‘Limited water resources constitute a major challenge, and Iraq is one of the
countries most affected by climate change due to the lack of green spaces and increasing desertification,’ stressing: ‘The Ministry has focused its attention on developing water management in accordance with the government program, ensuring its sustainability and fair distribution among all beneficiaries.’ he added ‘This will achieve a sufficient degree of safety and stability for all areas located on the banks of Tigris and Euphrates rivers.’

The minister pointed out: ‘The water situation requires making great efforts to find appropriate solutions and alternatives to confront these challenges, the most prominent of which is that most of the water sources come from outside the borders. Therefore, the ministry has taken a number of measures to find effective solutions that meet the interests of the parties located on the Tigris and Euphrates basins,’ stressing: ‘Iraq needs international support, whether from governmental institutions or international, and Arab organizations, to support its steps in putting an
end to the shortage of water resources.’

Source: National Iraqi News Agency

Doha Hosts Partnership Meetings, Roundtable to Discuss Humanitarian Situation in Afghanistan


Doha: Doha hosted a roundtable and partnership meetings with the Afghan Red Crescent Society (ARCS), organized by the Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS), in cooperation with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The meetings and roundtable sessions discussed the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and mechanisms for improving it, expanding the circle of support from urgent to long-term, and the importance of intensifying humanitarian diplomacy efforts and the work of international humanitarian organizations and national societies that work under one umbrella of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, to enhance efforts in support of the Afghan people to achieve stability and development.

Participants also discussed ways to develop cooperation and support the ARCS’s efforts and capabilities in the fields of education and health, in light of the problem of limited funding and financial support for hu
manitarian work in Afghanistan.

Participants emphasized the importance of supporting humanitarian efforts in light of the complexities of the current situation in Afghanistan and the increasing volume of large needs that the country is witnessing with the worsening economic crisis and natural disasters, which requires the necessity of concerted international efforts to change the form of support from urgent and temporary to long-term and extended.

Secretary-General of QRCS Faisal Mohammed Al Emadi praised the State of Qatar’s pioneering role in the field of humanitarian diplomacy, noting that Doha’s hosting of these discussion sessions for the third consecutive year, as well as the partnership meetings with the ARCS, confirms its great interest in the Afghan issue and its keenness to affirm the inherent right of the Afghan people to a dignified and secure life.

Al Emadi called for urgent measures to be taken to meet the grave needs of the Afghan people, especially in light of concerns about the worsening s
ituation as a result of the successive disasters that the country has been exposed to. He pointed out the importance of lifting restrictions and facilitating financial transfers to humanitarian organizations and the need to focus on supporting the capabilities of the local community and local institutions, especially the ARCS.

The speakers discussed the latest developments in the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and the latest statistics related to the extent of the damage and the long-term needs of the Afghan people, especially the health sector, as the number of health centers threatened with closure due to limited funding and support has reached 81 centers that provide health services to millions of patients, while 150,000 refugees, who recently returned to Afghanistan, are facing tragic conditions.

The two-day partnership meetings and roundtable sessions saw the participation of HE Director of Department of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Shaheen bin Ali Al Kaabi, HE As
ia Pacific Director of the IFRC Alexander Matheou, Representative of the ICRC and Deputy Regional Director Pablo Percelsi, HE Acting President of the ARCS Maulvi Matiul Haq Khalis, along with representatives of national societies in Qatar, Afghanistan, and a number of countries, representatives of a number of diplomatic missions in the country, and international specialists in the humanitarian field.

The partnership meetings and roundtable sessions are not the first of their kind, as Doha previously hosted similar meetings in 2022, which yielded tangible positive results that led to tangible progress in the field of humanitarian work provided to those affected in Afghanistan.

The QRCS has had a strategic partnership with its Afghan counterpart since 2014, during which it implemented 54 projects in the sectors of emergency relief, shelter, water and sanitation, health, livelihood, and food security to meet the needs of the population in various states and regions burdened by crises and disasters, as the numb
er of beneficiaries of these projects reached 1.3 million people.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Qatar Participates in Preparatory Meeting of Arab Economic and Cooperation Forum with Countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan


Doha: The State of Qatar participated in the preparatory meeting of the 3rd session of the Arab Economic and Cooperation Forum with the countries of Central Asia and the Republic of Azerbaijan, slated to be held in Doha on Tuesday.

HE Director of the Arab Affairs Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Nayef bin Abdullah Al Emadi represented the State of Qatar at the meeting.

Source: Qatar News Agency

GCC Highlights Importance of Strategic Partnership with US in Enhancing Region’s Stability


The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) emphasized the importance of the strategic and growing partnership between the Council and the United States aimed at enhancing peace, security, stability, integration, and economic prosperity in the region.

GCC Secretary-General Jassim Mohammed Al Budaiwi said in a statement today that the joint ministerial meeting of the GCC-US strategic partnership, held in Riyadh under the chairmanship of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, President of the current session of the Ministerial Council, discussed all international and regional issues of mutual interest. He affirmed the Gulf States’ stance on the necessity of achieving an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, halting all Israeli military operations, ensuring the protection of civilians in accordance with international humanitarian law, and lifting all restrictions hindering the entry of humanitarian aid and essential needs into the sector.

At the s
ame time, he reiterated the strong rejection of any attempts to displace the Palestinian people from their land, as well as escalating violence against Palestinians in the West Bank, including settlement expansion, land confiscation, military operations against Palestinians, settler attacks, and the siege of places of worship for Muslims and Christians.

He reiterated the GCC’s steadfast support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with relevant United Nations resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative. He called on the international community to take irreversible steps to implement the two-state solution, recognize the State of Palestine, and enable the Palestinian people to exercise their basic and legitimate rights in accordance with United Nations resolutions and international law. He stressed the UN Security Council’s responsibility for maintaining in
ternational peace and security, particularly in this highly sensitive region, to prevent the crisis from escalating further, which would have severe consequences if its scope were to expand.

Source: Qatar News Agency

Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Participates in Coordination Meeting to Support Efforts to Implement Two-State Solution, Recognize the State of Palestine


HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani participated Monday in a coordination meeting held in Riyadh at the invitation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Norway in support of efforts to implement the two-state solution and recognize the State of Palestine.

Foreign ministers and representatives of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Palestine, the Kingdom of Belgium, the French Republic, the Federal Republic of Germany, the Republic of Ireland, the Italian Republic, the Portuguese Republic, the Kingdom of Spain, the Republic of Slovenia, the Republic of Turkiye, the United Kingdom, the European Union and the Arab League also participated in the meeting.

Source: Qatar News Agency

HH the Amir, US President Discuss Efforts to Reach Immediate, Permanent Ceasefire in Gaza


Doha: HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani discussed with HE President of the United States of America Joe Biden the developments in the Gaza Strip and the occupied Palestinian territories, and the two countries’ efforts to reach an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza.

This came during a phone call HH the Amir received on Monday from HE the President of the United States of America.

During the call, they also discussed the strategic relations between the two countries and ways to support and enhance them, in addition to regional and international developments.

Source: Qatar News Agency