Day: 2 May 2024

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KFSH&RC Ranked Top Valuable Healthcare Brand in Saudi Arabia and Middle East

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — KFSH&RC tops the healthcare sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East, recognizing it as the most valuable healthcare brand in these regions for the second year. According to the 2024 Brand Finance reports, it placed 9th in Saudi Arabia and 28th in the Middle East. Additionally, KFSH&RC stands out as the only hospital worldwide to be ranked among its country’s top ten most valuable brands.

The Brand Finance Report shows that KFSH&RC brand value increased by 31%, exceeding 5.6 billion Saudi Riyals, equivalent to USD 1.5 billion. This increase is the result of the hospital’s unwavering commitment to incorporating the latest medical technologies and treatments and providing specialized medical care that adheres to the latest international standards.

Reflecting on KFSH&RC’s global recognition, Mr. Muhannad Kadi, the Chief Corporate Communications & Marketing Officer, commented, “This accomplishment underscores the hospital’s dedication to achieving the highest quality standards and providing outstanding healthcare, as well as the significant value it delivers to its beneficiaries.” He emphasized that the hospital’s position among the top ten most valuable brands in Saudi Arabia not only highlights its effectiveness but also the positive impact of the ongoing transformations within the Kingdom’s healthcare sector.

Over the past year, KFSH&RC has achieved several notable milestones that have significantly contributed to its brand strength and reputation. These include conducting four ground-breaking experiments in space medicine, performing the World’s first fully robotic liver transplant, and launching a rapid whole genome sequencing analysis service available to all beneficiaries. Furthermore, KFSH&RC celebrated the successful treatment of 100 T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia patients, a testament to our advanced medical capabilities and dedication to patient care.

In line with Saudi Vision 2030 and its transformation programs, initiated by His Royal Highness, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister—which aim to enhance the Kingdom’s global position and establish it as a healthcare hub—KFSH&RC has been ranked as the top Academic Medical Centre in the Middle East and Africa. It also secured the 20th spot globally for two consecutive years, 2023 and 2024, according to Brand Finance’s Global Top 250 Hospitals report. Additionally, it has been ranked among the top 250 Best Hospitals in the World by Newsweek Magazine.

For more information please contact:

Mr. Essam Al-Zahrani, Acting Media Affairs Head, 0555254429

Mr. Abdullah Alown, Senior Media Affairs Editor, 0556294232

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9110177

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“التخصصي” العلامة التجارية الصحية الأعلى قيمة في السعودية والشرق الأوسط

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

تصدّر مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث القطاع الصحي بالمملكة العربية السعودية والشرق الأوسط، بتصنيفه العلامة التجارية الصحية الأعلى قيمة في المملكة والشرق الأوسط للسنة الثانية على التوالي، حيث حل بالمرتبة التاسعة في المملكة، والثامنة والعشرون في الشرق الأوسط، وتفرد “التخصصي“ بكونه المستشفى الوحيد عالمياً الذي يأتي ضمن أعلى 10 علامات تجارية قيمة في بلده، وذلك بحسب تقريرين لـ “براند فاينانس” حول العلامات التجارية الـ 50 الأعلى قيمة في السعودية، والعلامات التجارية الـ 150 الأعلى قيمة في الشرق الأوسط للعام 2024.

وأوضح التقرير ارتفاع قيمة العلامة التجارية للتخصصي بنسبة 31% لتتجاوز الـ 5.6 مليار ريال سعودي – ما يعادل 1.5 مليار دولار أمريكي-، حيث تُعد هذه الزيادة نتيجة لالتزام مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث بدمج أحدث التقنيات الطبية والعلاجات، وتوفير الرعاية الطبية التخصصية بأحدث المعايير العالمية على مدى ما يقارب خمسة عقود وتطويره لمجال الأبحاث ورعاية المرضى بشكل مستمر.

وقال الأستاذ مهند عبدالله قاضي، الرئيس التنفيذي للاتصال المؤسسي والتسويق في مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث، “إن هذا الإنجاز يأتي انعكاس لالتزام المستشفى بتحقيق أعلى معايير الجودة وتقديم رعاية صحية متميزة، وكذلك للقيمة التي يقدمها للمستفيدين”، موكداً أن التواجد ضمن أعلى 10 علامات تجارية قيمةً في المملكة شاهداً على نجاعة التحولات التي يعيشها القطاع الصحي في المملكة.

وحقق “التخصصي“ في العام الماضي عددا من الإنجازات يأتي في مقدمتها، تنفيذ أربع تجارب رائدة في مجال طب الفضاء، وإجراء أول زراعة كبد كاملة بالروبوت في العالم، وتدشين خدمة تحليل تسلسل الجينوم الكامل السريع وإتاحتها لجميع المستفيدين، كما احتفى “التخصصي” بنجاح علاج 100 مريض بسرطان الدم اللمفاوي باستخدام الخلايا التائية، ما انعكس إيجاباً على درجة مؤشر قوة العلامة التجارية، التي ارتفعت إلى 37.9من 100.

وتعدّ نتيجة التصنيف شاهدة على الكفاءة العالية والتميز الذي يتمتّع به الكادر الطبي والبحثي في “التخصصي”، وثمرة لبرامج التحول ورؤية السعودية 2030 التي أطلقها سمو ولي العهد رئيس مجلس الوزراء، حفظه الله، التي تهدف إلى تعزيز ريادة المملكة في قطاع الرعاية الصحية على المستوى العالمي، ما أثمر عن تصنيف مستشفى الملك فيصل التخصصي ومركز الأبحاث في مقدمة المؤسسات الصحية الأكاديمية في الشرق الأوسط وأفريقيا، والـ 20 عالميًا، لعامين متتاليين 2023 و2024 بحسب “براند فاينانس”، وكذلك تصنيفه ضمن قائمةَ أفضل 250 مستشفى على مستوى العالم لعام 2024 والصادرة عن مجلة “نيوزويك” الأمريكية.

For more information please contact:

Mr. Essam Al-Zahrani, Acting Media Affairs Head, 0555254429

Mr. Abdullah Alown, Senior Media Affairs Editor, 0556294232

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9110177

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INVNT GROUP and MSM Boost Partnership and Marketing Service Offerings in Motorsports Industry with Strategic Leadership Appointment

INVNT GROUP welcomes Roc Nation veteran, Luca Zanello, as SVP of Content Strategy

New York, NY, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Building on their successful partnership, INVNT GROUP and MSM (Media & Sport Management) enhance service offerings and commercial solutions tailored for talent and brands within the booming motorsports industry.

INVNT GROUP, the global brand storytelling agency portfolio, was named Best Global Media Agency at the 2023 Automotive Marcomm Awards by Autocar, for groundbreaking campaigns with Lamborghini, Formula E, General Motors, Lotus, Rolls Royce and more. Over four decades, MSM has built standout relationships between brands, drivers, teams, and championships at the pinnacle of motorsport, including sponsorships, hospitality, and events.

The partnership brings the appointment of Roc Nation music and entertainment veteran, Luca Zanello, as SVP of Content Strategy at INVNT GROUP, fortifying the global suite of award-winning capabilities and integrated services within the motorsports including strategy, partnerships, experiential, digital, Web3, content, and culture. Zanello reports into Scott Cullather, President and CEO of INVNT GROUP, and CEO of INVNT.ATOM.

“Motorsports have not only captured the global imagination but have accelerated the expansion of its cultural influence at unprecedented speed. Our evolving collaboration with MSM, and appointment of Luca, places us at the forefront, allowing us to deliver pioneering, bespoke solutions to the motorsports industry. We are committed to enhancing the connection between brands, talent, and partners with audiences worldwide through dynamic storytelling and groundbreaking experiences. Together, we are charging the future of motorsports, transcending the boundaries of the racetrack,” said Scott Cullather.

The partnership aims to deliver strategies within the motorsport domain, leveraging both INVNT GROUP and MSM’s deep rooted motorsports network and industry expertise.

Enrico Zanarini, Founder and CEO of MSM, expressed: “This is more than a partnership expansion; it’s how we redefine motorsport marketing. With MSM’s deep history in the motorsports industry, and INVNT GROUP’s storytelling expertise, we are poised to deliver exciting and unexpected engagement programs that resonate deeply with fans and stakeholders alike.”

Luca Zanello, commenting on his new role, added, “Joining this dynamic team during a transformative era in motorsports is truly exhilarating. We are redefining the limits of motorsports engagement by introducing comprehensive programs that blend traditional approaches with cutting-edge digital and experiential strategies. Our goal is to unite and excite fans globally, offering them novel and captivating experiences that not only entertain but also deepen their connection to the sport.”

This strategic allegiance is a significant milestone in the evolution of motorsport marketing and the overall industry, promising next-generation strategies and enhanced engagement for clients, brands, partners, and audiences across the globe.

ABOUT INVNT GROUP

INVNT GROUP™ represents a growing portfolio of complementary disciplines designed to help forward-thinking brands and organizations everywhere, impact the audiences that matter, anywhere.

Headed by President and CEO, Scott Cullather, INVNT GROUP amplifies globally with offices in New York (HQ), Sydney, London, Singapore, Dubai, San Francisco, Stockholm, Mumbai, Detroit, and Washington D.C.

The GROUP consists of the founding, live brand storytelling agency, INVNT; brand strategy & creative-led culture consultancy, Meaning; production studio & creative agency, HEVĒ; live events for colleges and universities, INVNT Higher Ed; digital innovation agency, INVNT.ATOM; creative multimedia experience studio, Hypnogram, and live entertainment production company, ITP Live. For more information visit: https://invntgroup.com/

ABOUT MSM

MSM is a leader in the world of motorsport and has been fostering standout relationships between brands, drivers, teams and championships for over 40 years.

The team specializes in individual and corporate management, offering clients their expertise across the marketing mix. MSM is active in sponsorship facilitation, commercial opportunity development and execution, client representation, tailored hospitality offerings, and managing bespoke events on and off track. Having spent four decades in the most innovative sporting environment, MSM has developed an approach that is tailor-made for partners to unlock their full potential.

MSM’s deep insight and unparalleled know-how enable their partners to connect with both new and existing audiences in an authentic way, while also delivering measurable commercial impact. For more information, https://msmgroup.com

Attachment

Jhonathan Mendez de Leon
INVNT GROUP
Jmendezdeleon@invnt.com

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9110107

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Arqit and SoftIron Partner to sell more secure data center deployments

LONDON, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Arqit Quantum Inc. (Nasdaq: ARQQ, ARQQW) (Arqit), a leader in quantum-safe encryption, and SoftIron, the worldwide leader in true private cloud infrastructure announce a partnership to enable customers to make a seamless migration to quantum safe cloud tasks, with a priority focus on the defense sector. Arqit’s quantum-safe products will be available as part of the SoftIron Partner Marketplace alongside other industry-leading solutions.

SoftIron has integrated Arqit’s Symmetic Key Agreement Platform (SKA-Platform™) into HyperCloud, SoftIron’s ready-to-run true private cloud experience, deployed on-premises or on the battlefield. This brings the security of symmetric encryption across data center and edge compute environments without the need for additional infrastructure. It ensures customers win from optimal security, pace of deployment, performance, scalability and sovereignty.

The technology represents a strongly complementary offering and both companies will leverage their existing industry partnerships and defense customers.

“We are delighted to partner with SoftIron to bring Symmetric Key Agreement to the deployable cloud. The combination offers customers huge advantage in rapid and secure deployment of SoftIron’s impressive capability, compatible with the requirements of standards laid down for National Security Systems, and great synergy in our customer bases,” said David Williams, Chairman and CEO of Arqit Limited.

“We are excited to have Arqit join the SoftIron+Co Partner Program as a Technology Alliance Partner (TAP) that will enable all of Arqit’s best-in-class encryption solutions to our customers,” said Phil Straw, CEO of SoftIron. “By integrating Arqit’s SKA-Platform™ with our true private cloud solutions, we are empowering organizations to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of their data in rapid on-premises and battlefield deployments. Complying with the new standards laid down for National Security Systems in using symmetric encryption but in a manner that is flexible and fast gives us an important edge.”

Notes to Editors

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

For more information about Arqit and SoftIron, please visit Arqit’s website and SoftIron’s website.

About SoftIron:

SoftIron is a Silicon Valley-based worldwide leader in true private cloud infrastructure. HyperCloud by SoftIron allows organizations to build a true private cloud on-premises that deploys, manages and consumes like public cloud. HyperCloud provides the elasticity of cloud in a solution that is fast and simple to deploy, driving extreme agility. HyperCloud delivers the benefits of AWS Outposts or Azure Stack HCI but in a cloud-neutral solution. Learn more at www.softiron.com

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
Mike Bradshaw
Connect Marketing for SoftIron
mikeb@connectmarketing.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 9109828

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Syrians Seek UN Rights Ruling Against Russia for 2019 Hospital Attacks

Open Society Justice Initiative Files Complaint to the UN Human Rights Committee

New York, May 02, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Russian Federation has been accused before the UN Human Rights Committee in Geneva of carrying out a deliberate attack on a hospital in Syria—in a legal action that highlights Moscow’s repeated use of military force against health care facilities in Syria, where its forces have been supporting the regime of President Bashar al-Assad.

A complaint before the Committee, filed on May 1, focuses on a series of air strikes on Kafr Nabl Surgical Hospital in Idlib province on May 5, 2019.

It accuses the Russian Air Force of killing two civilians and endangering the lives of all those working in and using the hospital at the time—medical practitioners, patients, support staff, and visitors.

The complaint has been brought before the Committee by a Syrian man whose two cousins were killed by the attack, and by Hand in Hand for Aid and Development, the humanitarian NGO that was supporting the hospital at the time. Hand in Hand is representing the interests of the patients of the hospital.

The applicants are represented by lawyers of the Open Society Justice Initiative, with Professor Philip Leach, professor of human rights law at the UK’s Middlesex University as co-counsel.

The evidence being presented to the Committee includes a detailed account of the Russian Air Force attack on the hospital at Kafr Nabl, and on three other hospitals near Kafr Nabl in just 12 hours on May 5-6, 2019. There was no fighting near the hospital at the time of the attack, which lay in opposition-controlled territory some 20km away from the front line.

The complaint draws on a wealth of video and audio recordings made at the time, as well as eyewitness accounts that point to direct Russian Air Force involvement in coordinating and executing the attacks. The material includes observations of Russian aircraft in the area at the relevant time, and audio recordings of communications between a Russian pilot and Russian ground control, authorizing the release of aerial munitions and confirming that the aerial munitions had been dropped, at the precise times that strikes were captured on video. Some of the material included as evidence in the complaint was used by the New York Times in a special report published on October 13, 2019.

Fadi al-Dairi, the director of Hand in Hand, said: “The Russian air force attack on Kafr Nabl hospital was a well-documented atrocity that was part of a systematic assault on hospitals and healthcare facilities in opposition-held territory in Syria in 2019. The coordinates of the hospital had been shared with Russia by the UN under the UN Deconfliction Mechanism. Syrians are looking to the Human Rights Committee to show us some measure of redress by acknowledging the truth of this brutal attack, and the suffering caused.”

James A. Goldston, executive director of the Justice Initiative, said: “This complaint before a preeminent international human rights tribunal exposes the Russian government and armed forces’ deliberate strategy of targeting healthcare in clear violation of the laws of war. It must remind us all that attacks on protected healthcare facilities—whether in Syria, Sudan, Ukraine, or the Gaza Strip—are an abomination that must never be normalized.”

The complaint is being supported by expert analyses prepared by Syrian Archive and Physicians for Human Rights. Physicians for Human Rights has documented 604 attacks against medical facilities in Syria since 2011, the overwhelming majority conducted by Syrian and Russian forces.

Houssam al-Nahhas, MD, Middle East and North Africa Researcher for Physicians for Human Rights, said: “Widespread and systematic attacks on health care in Syria are part of a strategy implemented by the Syrian and Russian governments, devastating the country’s health care system. Despite the seriousness of these crimes, no perpetrators have ever faced accountability. We hope this landmark case helps to end the impunity for attacks on health care in Syria and serve as a warning to perpetrators in other conflicts around the world.”

The Geneva-based Human Rights Committee is a body of 18 independent experts that monitors implementation of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which has been signed by 173 countries. Under the ICCPR’s Optional Protocol, which the Russian Federation signed in 1990, individuals can bring complaints against signatory states before the Committee over rights violations.

The complaint accuses the Russian Federation of perpetrating a clear and serious violation of International Humanitarian Law by deliberately attacking a protected medical facility, in breach of the Right to Life under the ICCPR. The attack killed two brothers and endangered the lives of everyone working in and using the busy hospital. The hospital was operating normally at the time of the attack and neither Russia nor Syria provided any warning before the attack. This is not the only time the facility was targeted: Kafr Nabl Hospital was attacked 13 times between 2014 and 2019.

From a legal perspective, a decision against Russia would provide significant new jurisprudence on the extraterritorial obligations of States in armed conflict, and would pave the way for progressive decisions from other human rights bodies and courts.

The Open Society Justice Initiative is part of the Open Society Foundations, and pursues strategic litigation on a range of issues including advancing human rights and advancing the rule of law. Its work on Syria has included supporting efforts to bring top Syrian officials and leaders to trial before national courts in Europe for crimes against humanity committed in Syria.

Communications
Open Society Foundations
(212) 548-0378
media@opensocietyfoundations.org

GlobeNewswire Distribution ID 9109977

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IG ASIA Acquires Majority Interest in the Pribrezhniy Porphyry Copper Deposit in the Republic of Kazakhstan

Figure 1
Location of Pribrezhniy and other deposit areas of interest. P1 = Pribrezhniy; P2 = Prikounradsky; S1 = South Kounrad, NE1 & NE2 = Pribrezhniy Northeast & Northwest. Shabigon is an exclave located 120km west of the main area.
Figure 2
Geology of Pribrezhniy showing north and south mineralized zones either side of a barren core of monzogranite. Holes highlighted in blue are for geotechnical sampling to support starter open pits, 2023 series holes are shown in red. IG developed oxide ore zone subtypes shown in insets: blanket oxide = BOX (red) and supergene subtypes = SUPER (blue) are shown for each zone.
Figure 3: Mineralised core intercepts from drillhole P98, Eastern Zone
a) Oxide.78.8m depth. Hematite-goethite-jarosite weathering with malachite.40.0m @ 0.39% Cu
Figure 3: Mineralised core intercepts from drillhole P98, Eastern Zone
b) Sulphide. 199.8m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite-molybdenite veinlet dissemination with sericite alteration.18.0m @ 0.64% Cu
Figure 4: Examples of mineralised veinsets from Eastern Zone
a)P105, 207m depth. B-type quartz-pyrite-chalcopyrite-molybdenite vein in monzodiorite
Figure 4: Examples of mineralised veinsets from Eastern Zone
b) P106, 168m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite D-type with sericite selvage cutting rejuvenated A-veins with K-feldspar in granodiorite
Image 1
Copper oxide mineralization in weathered granite
Image 2
Drilling at Central Zone, Pribrezhniy
APPENDIX A
SELECTED DRILL RESULTS FROM FINAL HOLES OF RTX’S 2023 DRILLING CAMPAIGN

CHARLESTOWN, Nevis, May 01, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — IG ASIA LLC (“IG Asia” or the “Company”), a private Nevis based company, is pleased to announce it has entered into a conditional agreement with Rio Tinto International Holdings Limited (the “Vendor”) to acquire its 75% ownership interest in the Pribrezhniy porphyry copper deposit (>1Mt contained copper) and five additional underexplored prospect areas located in the most prolific porphyry belt in the Republic of Kazakhstan (the “Project”, Figure 1) (the “Transaction”). On completion of the Transaction, IG Asia will acquire 75% of the Project which has a scoping level engineering analysis performed by Rio Tinto Exploration Kazakhstan.   The remaining 25% of the joint venture is owned by KazGeology, a Kazakhstan state geological resources entity. Ongoing exploration work has demonstrated significant potential for expansion and further discovery.

TRANSACTION HIGHLIGHTS

  • Transaction supports IG Asia’s path toward becoming a leading regional copper explorer and developer

    • This asset is a flagship project for IG Asia alongside its TN5 project in Mongolia. TN5 is located between world class Oyu Tolgoi and Kharmagtai deposits of Rio Tinto and Xanadu Mines where the target is a large Tier 1 copper-gold-molybdenum porphyry.
    • The Company is proposing technical work at Pribrezhniy with the objective of further increasing upside in the project through a combination of increased mineral inventory and optimized processing.
  • Pribrezhniy is ideally located within an established mining district
    • The Project is located in the most prolific porphyry belt in the Republic of Kazakhstan containing several commercial discoveries such as the Aktogay (2.2Bt @ 0.37% Cu), Taysogan, Sayak and Kounrad deposits.
    • Located at the eastern end of the Kounrad group of copper deposits it boasts excellent mining infrastructure with access to power, water, a dual line railway and smelter in the district.
    • The Project license area covers 832km2 of exploration ground with the exploration stage of the license being valid until February 2029 to produce a feasibility study on Pribrezhniy and advance two additional prospects within the license.
  • Transaction terms are focused squarely on the path to project and mine development
    • Upon completion of the Transaction, the Company shall pay the Vendor USD 2.23M primarily for reimbursement of exploration work performed in 2023.
    • Additional expenditures of USD 11M to reach a prefeasibility level project by 2029.
    • An additional one-time payment of USD 20M and a NSR royalty are due to the Vendor upon reaching certain nameplate production milestones.

Richard Leveille, former VP Exploration for Freeport McMoran and Director and Chief Copper Consultant for IG Asia commented, ” The Pribrezhniy acquisition represents a unique opportunity for IG Asia to leapfrog from a greenfields explorer to having a scoping-level project near excellent infrastructure in a favorable mining-friendly jurisdiction.

Thomas E. Bowens, founder and Executive Director of IG Asia states, “The acquisition of the Pribrezhniy deposit is a major development for IG Global and our IG Asia subsidiary. In just over two years our team has advanced IG Asia from a green fields exploration company to a multi tiered exploration and development company. The Pribrezhniy acquisition provides IGA with an advanced copper molybdenum porphyry deposit that has undergone a successful scoping study indicating robust economics. This acquisition provides a major step forward for the company and adds substantial value to our current portfolio of copper, gold and lithium brine projects underway in Kazakhstan and Mongolia.   I am very proud of our outstanding IG Asia team. IG Asia is well underway to becoming a major force in the mineral exploration and mining industry in Central Asia.”

Figure 1: Location of Pribrezhniy and other deposit areas of interest. P1 = Pribrezhniy; P2 = Prikounradsky; S1 = South Kounrad, NE1 & NE2 = Pribrezhniy Northeast & Northwest. Shabigon is an exclave located 120km west of the main area.

: Location of Pribrezhniy and other deposit areas of interest. P1 = Pribrezhniy; P2 = Prikounradsky; S1 = South Kounrad, NE1 & NE2 = Pribrezhniy Northeast & Northwest. Shabigon is an exclave located 120km west of the main area.

GEOLOGY

Pribrezhniy represents the eastward end of the Kounrad group of copper deposits. The geology comprises typical A, B and D veins in a porphyry system encompassing breccia zones and alteration hosted by monzogranite, monzogranite porphyry and tonalite (Figure 2). Copper mineralization is associated with a late monzonite porphyry phase, but mineralization is also found in an earlier phase of monzogranite that forms a wide arc (Northern, Southern and Eastern Zones).

An additional intrusive phase of monzogranite was assumed to form a barren core. However, at the end of the final evaluation drilling campaign (over 50,000m of diamond drilling was carried out by Rio Tinto Exploration Kazakhstan between 2018-2023), significant intercepts of mineralised breccia were encountered in the previously untested central ‘barren’ monzogranite in the last few diamond drill holes, including (refer to Table 1 and Appendix A herein):

Table 1: Summary of selected significant intercepts over down-the-hole thicknesses at campaign end.

Drillhole ID Lithology Downhole
interval (m)		 Weighted ave.,
Cu %		 Weighted ave.,
Ag g/t
PRIB0109 Breccia Hydrothermal 124.7 0.74 2.7
PRIB0111 Breccia Hydrothermal 64.0 0.34 1.3
PRIB0112 Monzogranite 43.6 0.47 0.9


Figure 2: Geology of Pribrezhniy showing north and south mineralized zones either side of a barren core of monzogranite. Holes highlighted in blue are for geotechnical sampling to support starter open pits, 2023 series holes are shown in red. IG developed oxide ore zone subtypes shown in insets: blanket oxide = BOX (red) and supergene subtypes = SUPER (blue) are shown for each zone.

Geology of Pribrezhniy showing north and south mineralized zones either side of a barren core of monzogranite. Holes highlighted in blue are for geotechnical sampling to support starter open pits, 2023 series holes are shown in red. IG developed oxide ore zone subtypes shown in insets: blanket oxide = BOX (red) and supergene subtypes = SUPER (blue) are shown for each zone.

Figure 3: Mineralised core intercepts from drillhole P98, Eastern Zone

a) Oxide.78.8m depth. Hematite-goethite-jarosite weathering with malachite.40.0m @ 0.39% Cu
a) Oxide.78.8m depth. Hematite-goethite-jarosite weathering with malachite. 40.0m @ 0.39% Cu

b) Sulphide. 199.8m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite-molybdenite veinlet dissemination with sericite alteration.18.0m @ 0.64% Cu
b) Sulphide. 199.8m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite-molybdenite veinlet dissemination with sericite alteration. 18.0m @ 0.64% Cu

Figure 4: Examples of mineralised veinsets from Eastern Zone

a)P105, 207m depth. B-type quartz-pyrite-chalcopyrite-molybdenite vein in monzodiorite
a) P105, 207m depth. B-type quartz-pyrite-chalcopyrite-molybdenite vein in monzodiorite

b) P106, 168m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite D-type with sericite selvage cutting rejuvenated A-veins with K-feldspar in granodiorite
b) P106, 168m depth. Quartz-chalcopyrite D-type with sericite selvage cutting rejuvenated A-veins with K-feldspar in granodiorite

Robust metallurgical, hydrogeological, geotechnical and environmental studies were carried out between 2018-2020 to advance a scoping level study including an estimate of mineral inventory:

Table 2: Global Geology mineral inventory after 2021-2022

MINERAL
TYPE		 TONNES
ORE Mt		 TONNES CU
METAL Kt		 TONNES MO
METAL Kt		 CU GRADE %  MO GRADE % CU EQUIVALENT %*
OXIDE ONLY 80 213 – 0.27 – 0.27
COMBINED SULPHIDE 722 2,275 100 0.31 0.014 0.38

* Cu equivalent is calculated on a price deck of USD9,000/t for copper and USD44,000/t for molybdenum according to the formula: Cu eq. grade = [(Cu price x Cu grade + Mo price x Mo grade)/Cu price x Cu grade] x Cu grade

Prices are based on rounding down the LME daily metal price for 10 April 2024 to Cu = USD4.2/lb and Mo = USD20/lb

Copper oxide mineralization in weathered granite
Image 1: Copper oxide mineralization in weathered granite

ECONOMICS

IG Asia performed its own optimization and NSR studies to produce a high-level financial analysis based on the following mineral inventory for a stand-alone heap leach operation recovering from oxide and a combined oxide + hypogene operation where cash flow is generated from oxide during construction of the sulphide concentrator. Both bottom-lines for each scenario were positive with profitability indices >1. Silver, in addition, is present in sufficient quantities in the copper concentrate (up to 70ppm in Cu scavenger circuits) to be a credit in a smelter contract and the Company will look to include it in future resource estimates.

Table 3: In-Pit Mineralisation (satisficer shells) 2023

PIT REVENUE
FACTOR		 TONNES
ORE Mt		 AVE CU % TONNES
WASTE Mt		 TONNES
TOTAL Mt		 SR NPV10 M$ LoM
Yrs		 PAYBACK
Yrs		 IRR % Profit
Index
OXIDE ONLY 0.89 43 0.29 119 162 2.74 $147 4.3 2 53 >2
COMBINED
SULPHIDE		 0.62 700 0.24 301 1,001 0.43 $716 26.4 9 18 1.6

Given the very favourable economic conditions, enhanced by excellent mining infrastructure (access to power, water, dual line railway and smelter in the district), IG embarked on producing a preliminary 3D model of oxide ore subtypes based on extracting acid leachable copper and cyanide leachable copper phase analyses from the Vendor’s comprehensive database:

  • AsCu >65% = BOX (will heap leach)
  • AsCu 50-64% = OTHER (may heap leach if blended)
  • CNCu >35% = SUPER (will heap leach)

To yield an estimation of heap leachable oxide resources. Volumes and tonnages for each mineral category are quoted at 0.1% Cu cut-off grade:

Table 4: IG in-house preliminary estimates of oxide ore subtypes based on drill data up to November 2023.

№ Name   Volume m3 Tonnage t Grade Cu % In-situ Cu content t
1 BOX 6 452 000 16 711 000 0.29 49 000
2 SUPER 11 095 000 28 736 000 0.26 75 000
3 OTHER 916 000 2 374 000 0.28 6 000
    Total potentially leachable 47 821 000 0.27 130 000

The estimates represent an order of magnitude assessment, given wide data spacing and lack of rigorous application of mining modifying factors but can be used as an optimistic scenario for an 8–10-year SX/EW operation fed from within the Prebrezhniy deposit area alone.

NEXT STEPS

IG Asia will use the expenditure commitment of USD 9M to February 2029 to carry out the following strategy:

  • Oxide Only Project
    • Fully outline and define resources, particularly supergene, eastern extensions and centre within the Pribrezhniy deposit and investigate oxide copper concentrations at the other prospects within the license.
    • Perform heap leach specific testwork on representative ore subtypes.
  • Combined Sulphide Project
    • Fully outline newly discovered high-grade breccia from surface –with an aim to define the full extent of the higher-grade breccia ‘sweetener’.
    • Improve sulphide resource definition.
    • Increase level of accuracy in project metrics including water management plan to benefit local users where water is a scarce resource.
  • Definition Phase Studies
    Three main study areas to complete are:

    • Comprehensive ESIA including upgraded 3D hydrogeological model integrated with a water management plan.
    • Preliminary oxide Mine Development Project Plan on SXEW operation over 8 yr LoM.
    • Combined oxide + sulphide Pre-Feasibility Study at +/- 30% level of accuracy.

Image 2: Drilling at Central Zone, Pribrezhniy
Drilling at Central Zone, Pribrezhniy

Qualified Person, Technical Information 

Steve McRobbie, MAusIMM. Vice President Projects of IG Asia LLC, has sufficient experience that is relevant to the style of mineralisation and type of deposit under consideration to qualify as a Competent Person as defined in the 2012 edition of the “Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, and has prepared, validated and approved the technical and scientific content of this news release.

About IG Asia

IG Asia is focused on world class opportunities in the mineral-rich countries of Kazakhstan and Mongolia. On the heels of IG Global Group’s successful exploration and discoveries at IG Copper and IG Tintic, founder Thomas E. Bowens formed IG Asia recognizing the vast mineral discovery potential of Kazakhstan and Mongolia, and the opportunity presented by the modernization of their attractive foreign investment frameworks.  IGG’s exceptional technical team and regional experience is its strategic advantage. For more information: www.igasia.com

About IG Global Group LLC

IGG is a private international holding company focused on the exploration and development of world class mineral deposits. The Company’s activities include mineral exploration, mining operations and mining services. Founded in 2010 by Thomas E. Bowens, a Certified Professional Geologist, with degrees in Economics, Geological Engineering (Magna Cum Laude) and a master’s degree in Geology (the latter two from the Colorado School of Mines).  IGG brings together experienced professionals who are innovators in their fields with selected technical consultants who are well-versed in the latest industry exploration and mine development techniques and technologies. For more information igglobalgroup.com.

CONTACT Steven McRobbie, VP Projects: smcrobbie@igglobalgroup.com
Stephanie Ashton, VP Business Development: sashton@igglobalgroup.com


APPENDIX A

SELECTED DRILL RESULTS FROM FINAL HOLES OF RTX’S 2023 DRILLING CAMPAIGN (Refer Figure 2 for location on the deposit)SELECTED DRILL RESULTS FROM FINAL HOLES OF RTX’S 2023 DRILLING CAMPAIGN

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Warm weather conditions forecast countrywide – JMD


Amman: The majority of the country will experience warm weather on Thursday, although the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and Aqaba will experience relatively hot temperatures, the Jordan Meteorological Department (JMD) said in its daily update.

Clouds will be present at varying altitudes, and there is a chance that far northeastern Badia may experience brief afternoon showers of rain, sometimes accompanied by thunder.

Winds will be northwesterly moderate, picking up at times and stirring dust in the Badia regions.

Temperatures in the capital Amman will range between a high 23 degrees Celsius and a low of 11 degrees.

Highs in the port city of Aqaba will reach 35 during the day, sliding to 19 degrees at night.

Source: Jordan News Agency

Posted on

Kuwait’s doctors conduct 40 surgeries in Gaza

The medical team of Kuwait Society for Relief announced on Thursday conducting 40 surgeries in the first day of work in the Gaza Strip at the European Gaza Hospital in Khan Yunis and Kuwait specialized hospital in Rafah City, south of the Gaza Strip.

Speaking to KUNA in a press statement, head of medical delegation Omar al-Thuwaibi said the team would carry out more surgeries in Gaza in the coming days, adding that a relief convoy carrying about five tons of food supplies and needs for children was sent to northern Gaza.

Meanwhile, head of relief projects at the society Mahmoud al-Mesbah said the second Kuwaiti team is offering aid to displaced people, adding that this team distributed clothes to children.

It is a unique act in its kind, as a charitable event is organized to help families choose what they like, he stated.

Water and hygiene bags will be handed out to refugees, who are suffering badly from the lack of potable water, in addition to giving hot meals and food parcels to people, he told KUNA in
remarks.

Kuwait’s team is present all the time to offer aid to Gazans, in cooperation with partners, he noted.

Kuwait’s relief team arrived in Gaza via Rafah Border Crossing on Tuesday to support Palestinian people’s steadfastness and health sector by conducting surgeries for patients and those injured.

Source: Kuwait News Agency

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Kuwait urges protecting cultural heritage from climate change impacts

Kuwait Thursday called for rapid intervention and suitable measures to protect global cultural heritage from climate change impacts.

Delivering Kuwait’s speech before the sixth World Forum on Intercultural Dialogue in Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, Kuwaiti Permanent Representative to the UNESCO Ambassador Dr. Adam Al-Mulla referred to famous heritage sites that face imminent risks due to the rising water level.

Al-Mulla said without rapid intervention and proper actions these invaluable cultural assets are subject to damage and loss that could not be fixed.

The connection between between preserving heritage, climate change and cultural dialogue is robust evidence of a relationship between humans and environment, he said.

This is shown by enhancing dialogue to have a link among views, and varied traditions and values as well as daily practical experiments, he stated.

He made a presentation on UNESCO action in this matter that led, in light of efforts of states parties, experts and international organizations
, to developing and updating a political document on integrating climate change into practices to preserve heritage.

The updated document on preserving global heritage was approved in 2023 after in-depth discussions.

Combating climate change requires a multidimensional action and multilateral cooperation, with the active participation of UNSECO with international stakeholders, Al-Mulla noted. Al-Mulla also called for actual and deep cooperation with UNESCO sectors through good programs and practices.

He hoped that this dialogue could be a start to enhance action internationally in order to preserve heritage in the face of climate change.

The forum, which will conclude Friday, tomorrow, is a unique platform of international organizations and conferences as well as prominent leaders to partake in discourse on urgent global issues.

Source: Kuwait News Agency

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The Israeli occupation commits 3 new massacres against families in the Gaza Strip

The Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza announced that the Israeli occupation committed 3 massacres against families in the Gaza Strip, including 28 martyrs and 51 wounded who arrived in hospitals during the past 24 hours.

The government office said in a statement: ‘A number of victims are still under the rubble and on the roads, and ambulance and civil defense crews cannot reach them.’

It added: “The number of victims of the Israeli aggression has risen to 34,596 martyrs and 77,816 injured since the seventh of last October.

Source: National Iraqi News Agency

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Russian MoD: 12 Ukrainian drones shot down over 5 Russian provinces

The Russian Ministry of Defense announced today, Thursday, the downing of 12 Ukrainian drones in the airspace of five Russian provinces.

A Russian defense statement said: ‘Last night, attempts by Kiev to carry out a number of attacks using drones on Russian territory were thwarted.’

The statement explained that air defense systems destroyed 12 Ukrainian drones, including five over Bryansk Oblast, one over Kursk Oblast, one over Belgorod Oblast, two over Rostov and three over Krasnodar.

Source: National Iraqi News Agency

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King meets Pope Francis, reaffirms Jordan’s commitment to its religious, historical role in safeguarding Jerusalem’s holy sites


Vatican City: His Majesty King Abdullah II, during a meeting with Pope Francis on Thursday, reaffirmed Jordan’s commitment to undertaking its religious and historical role in safeguarding Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem, under the Hashemite Custodianship.

At the meeting held in Vatican City, His Majesty stressed the need to stop Israeli settler violence against Palestinians in Jerusalem, as well as in the West Bank, warning against the consequences of continued Israeli violations of holy sites in Jerusalem.

During the meeting, attended by His Royal Highness Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad, His Majesty’s chief adviser for religious and cultural affairs and personal envoy, the King expressed Jordan’s commitment to safeguarding Christian holy sites, especially the Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Bethany beyond the Jordan), located on the East Bank of the Jordan River.

Discussions also covered the dangerous developments in Gaza, with His Majesty stressing the need to immediately end the humanitarian cata
strophe and impose a lasting ceasefire, while ensuring the delivery of sufficient aid through all possible means and without any obstruction or delay.

The King called on the international community to maintain support for UNRWA to enable it to provide humanitarian services in accordance with its UN mandate.

His Majesty reiterated that the only way to reach just and comprehensive peace is through the two-state solution that guarantees the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the 4 June 1967 lines with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Source: Jordan News Agency