La galerie d’art contemporain HOFA annonce une nouvelle édition des Digital Art Awards, en collaboration avec son partenaire d’exposition PhillipsX

Sougwen Chung, « SPECTRAL – Oscillation 1 », 2024, acrylique sur plexiglas créée avec le système robotique sur mesure D.O.U.G._5, 152,5 x 152 cm (Image fournie avec l’aimable autorisation de Phillips et HOFA)

LONDRES, 24 avr. 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — La galerie HOFA annonce le lancement des Digital Art Awards, une initiative lancée en collaboration avec son partenaire d’exposition PhillipsX. Une nouvelle ère pour la reconnaissance de l’art numérique. Cet événement célèbre les pratiques innovantes qui s’inscrivent à la croisée de l’art et de la technologie, avec notamment l’IA et les médias immersifs et génératifs. La cérémonie de remise des prix prévue le 15 mai 2025 présentera les quatre catégories clés suivantes : Image fixe, Image animée, Innovation et Expérientiel. Elle sera suivie d’une exposition publique organisée par Phillips du 16 au 22 mai 2025 à Londres.

Point culminant du calendrier artistique londonien, cette remise de prix printanière célèbre l’importance croissante de l’art numérique et met en lumière des artistes qui redéfinissent la culture visuelle, entre esthétique algorithmique et collaboration homme–machine. Les visiteurs pourront découvrir les œuvres et les concepts qui façonnent l’avenir de l’art numérique.

Vingt finalistes internationaux seront sélectionnés pour leur capacité à repousser toujours plus loin les limites de la créativité numérique. Le lauréat de chaque catégorie se verra remettre un montant de 10 000 USDC au titre de la commande d’une nouvelle œuvre. Les finalistes et les lauréats seront sélectionnés par un jury d’experts reconnus dans les domaines de l’art et de l’innovation.

Parmi les premiers candidats figurent plusieurs personnalités de l’art numérique et génératif, telles que Sarah Meyohas, Sougwen Chung, Emily Xie, Operator et Kevin Abosch, artistes dont la renommée témoigne du calibre des talents que ces prix attirent déjà.

Organisée par Phillips, l’exposition publique présentera les œuvres primées de chaque catégorie, ainsi qu’une sélection soigneusement organisée des œuvres de certains finalistes, offrant ainsi un aperçu de l’innovation au cœur de l’art numérique.

Ces prix s’appuient sur le succès de SPACES, la série d’expositions–ventes de la galerie HOFA, organisée par Phillips via PhillipsX, sa plateforme d’expositions–ventes. Cette initiative a pour objectif de promouvoir les artistes qui excellent à l’intersection des arts, des sciences et des technologies. Les artistes lauréats rejoindront également ce programme en présentant de nouvelles œuvres lors d’expositions, de salons et de collaborations institutionnelles de premier plan.

Les Digital Art Awards ont l’honneur d’être soutenus par le Fonds pour la culture numérique de Hivemind Capital Partners. Hivemind s’engage à soutenir les artistes numériques établis tout en encourageant les nouveaux talents et en bâtissant une base économique durable pour l’écosystème florissant de l’art numérique. Parmi les autres partenaires de l’événement figurent ApeChain, une plateforme mondiale destinée à la prochaine génération de créateurs et d’agitateurs culturels, ainsi qu’Amina, une crypto–banque d’envergure mondiale.

Le cofondateur de la galerie HOFA et des Digital Art Awards, Elio D’Anna, a déclaré : « Les Digital Art Awards représentent un hommage essentiel aux artistes qui façonnent l’avenir. À travers le partenariat que nous avons conclu avec Phillips, nous nous engageons à promouvoir l’innovation et à offrir une plateforme aux talents visionnaires afin de redéfinir l’art et la technologie. »

Emma–Louise O’Neill

[email protected] 

Une photo accompagnant cette annonce est disponible à l’adresse suivante : http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7cb454d1–8949–4da1–8994–43ab283d40af


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001091803)

HOFA Announce New Digital Art Awards, in Collaboration with Exhibition Partner PhillipsX

Sougwen Chung, 'SPECTRAL – Oscillation 1', 2024, Acrylic on Perspex, Created with D.O.U.G._5 Bespoke Robotic System, 152.5 x 152 cm (Image courtesy of Phillips & HOFA)

LONDON, April 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HOFA Gallery announce the launch of the Digital Art Awards, an initiative in collaboration with exhibition partner PhillipsX. Heralding a new era of recognition for digital art. This event celebrates innovative practices at the intersection of art and technology, including AI, immersive and generative media. The awards ceremony will take place on 15 May 2025, featuring the four key categories of Still Image, Moving Image, Innovation and Experiential, and followed by a public exhibition hosted by Phillips in London, from 16–22 May 2025.   

As a highlight of London's spring art calendar, the inaugural awards celebrates the growing cultural significance of digital art and spotlights artists redefining visual culture through algorithmic aesthetics and human–machine collaboration. Visitors can engage with the artworks and ideas shaping the future of digital art.

Twenty international finalists will be selected for their work pushing the boundaries of digital creativity. Each category winner will receive a $10,000 USDC commission for a new artwork. Finalists and winners will be chosen by a panel of leading experts in art and innovation.

Early applicants include several prominent figures in digital and generative art, such as Sarah Meyohas, Sougwen Chung, Emily Xie, Operator and Kevin Abosch—underscoring the calibre of talent the awards are already attracting.

The public exhibition hosted by Phillips will feature the winning works from each category, alongside a curated selection of pieces from some finalists, offering a spectrum of the innovation driving digital art.

The awards build on the success of SPACES, HOFA’s selling exhibition series, hosted by Phillips through its selling exhibition platform, PhillipsX. This initiative is dedicated to championing artists at the nexus of art, science, and technology. Winning artists will also join this programme, with new works shown at exhibitions, fairs and select institutional collaborations.

The Digital Art Awards are proudly backed by Hivemind Capital Partners’ Digital Culture Fund. Hivemind is committed to championing established digital artists while nurturing emerging talent and building a sustainable economic foundation for the flourishing digital art ecosystem. Other partners include ApeChain, a global platform for the next generation of creators and culture shakers, and global crypto bank Amina.

Elio D’Anna, Co–Founder of HOFA and the Digital Art Awards said: “The Digital Art Awards represent an important recognition of the artists shaping the future. Through our partnership with Phillips, we are committed to championing innovation and providing a platform for visionary talents to redefine art and technology.”

Emma–Louise O'Neill

[email protected] 

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7cb454d1–8949–4da1–8994–43ab283d40af


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001079568)

Lucidya Secures SAR 5 Million Grant from Saudi Arabia’s National Technology Development Program 

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucidya, the leading AI–powered customer experience management (CXM) platform in the Arab world, has secured a SAR 5 million (USD 1.3 million) grant from Saudi Arabia’s National Technology Development Program (NTDP). This strategic milestone reinforces Lucidya’s position as a front–runner in the rapidly expanding AI and CXM space, while accelerating its plans for regional market expansion.

The NTDP, an initiative owned by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), is designed to empower high–potential technology companies and fast–track Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. The SAR 5 million grant will enable Lucidya to scale operations, enhance its product offerings, and expand into new markets beyond the Kingdom.

The grant announcement comes as MCIT launches the second phase of its Source Tech initiative. This program aims to advance Saudi Arabia’s digital economy by further localizing application development, outsourcing, and communication services, positioning the Kingdom as a global hub for digital innovation.

Ziyad Binsulaiman, Business Development Director at Lucidya, commented on the grant sharing, “Lucidya is positioned to accelerate its growth trajectory and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a global leader in technology and innovation by transforming how organizations manage customer experiences. We are honored to receive this grant, which will help us expand Lucidya’s innovative solutions across new markets and elevate the region’s CX standards.”

About Lucidya

Lucidya is a fully compliant, AI–powered unified customer experience platform (CXM) designed to support CX and marketing leaders in large enterprises, governments, and SMEs across the Arab world. Through the power of AI, Lucidya enables organizations to turn raw data into meaningful interactions and actionable insights, allowing them to build human connections and drive real business impact, safely and securely. 

About NTDP

The National Technology Development Program (NTDP) is a key national initiative aimed at advancing the Kingdom’s technology ecosystem. Through targeted interventions and funding programs such as the Bridge Fund, NTDP empowers high–growth companies and fosters an environment that supports innovation, investment, and sustainable market development—helping position Saudi Arabia as a regional hub for technological excellence.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/85a57c2b–e14d–4ac8–a327–d296515ebb80


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001079233)

Villes mondiales libres (Free Global Cities) : une nouvelle vision pour transformer la crise migratoire en opportunité

ZURICH, 03 avr. 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Face à l’échec des approches conventionnelles, Free Global Cities: The Future Leaders in Migration and Public Governance propose une alternative audacieuse : des villes autonomes conçues dans le but de favoriser les opportunités économiques, l’éducation et l’innovation. Publié sous la direction du Dr Christian H. Kälin, président de la Fondation Andan, une organisation humanitaire suisse à but non lucratif, cet ouvrage réunit un large éventail international d’éminents leaders d’opinion afin d’explorer dans quelle mesure des villes autonomes et indépendantes peuvent offrir aux populations déplacées la possibilité de démarrer une nouvelle vie.

Cet ouvrage publié par Bloomsbury invite en effet les dirigeants et les citoyens du monde entier à repenser la manière dont le déplacement des personnes contraintes de quitter leur foyer en raison des conflits, des persécutions et du changement climatique peut se transformer en opportunité, en associant des idées avant–gardistes à des politiques concrètes ainsi qu’à des investissements rentables.

« À travers ces chapitres, nous explorons une solution pragmatique à la crise mondiale des réfugiés et des migrants, à savoir : la création d’entités infranationales autonomes dans lesquelles les personnes déplacées peuvent vivre, travailler et créer des entreprises, tout en contribuant activement à l’économie locale. Ces villes mondiales libres peuvent transformer le problème du phénomène migratoire en un moteur d’opportunités et offrir aux réfugiés des moyens de reconstruire leur vie tout en stimulant la croissance économique et la stabilité sociale », explique Kälin.

Une vision pour des communautés autonomes

L’ouvrage présente les contributions de 35 experts internationaux de premier plan, dont notamment Michael Møller, ancien secrétaire général adjoint des Nations unies ; le Dr Titus Gebel, fondateur et PDG de Tipolis ; le professeur Paul Robert Vogt (Dr. h.c.), fondateur et président d’EurAsia Heart ; Mohamed Nasheed, ancien président des Maldives et secrétaire général du Climate Vulnerable Forum ; le Dr Parag Khanna, fondateur et PDG d’AlphaGeo ; Simon Anholt, conseiller politique indépendant et auteur ; et Mikael Ribbenvik Cassar, directeur exécutif adjoint de l’Agence de l’Union européenne pour l’asile.

Ensemble, ces experts proposent une feuille de route exhaustive pour l’avenir de la gouvernance des migrations, tout en illustrant la manière dont ces Villes mondiales libres peuvent favoriser la prospérité, la stabilité et le développement.

Kälin explique que « plutôt que de percevoir les réfugiés comme des bénéficiaires de la générosité des communautés d’accueil sur lesquelles ils pèsent comme des fardeaux, cette approche les reconnaît comme des agents du changement, capables d’apporter leurs propres compétences, talents et perspectives si l’opportunité leur en est donnée dans un nouveau foyer. Les Villes mondiales libres, en favorisant des environnements inclusifs et innovants, cherchent à libérer le potentiel inexploité des personnes déplacées. De victimes des circonstances, elles les transforment ainsi en architectes de leur propre avenir. »

Michael Møller, ancien Secrétaire général adjoint des Nations unies, qui a contribué à cet ouvrage, a déclaré : « Le concept de Villes mondiales libres, en tant que solutions innovantes et rapides répondant à des défis existentiels interdépendants, est tout à fait judicieux, car il implique une refonte fondamentale et logique du concept même de la ville et de son potentiel à offrir une solution globale pour l’avenir. »

Le professeur Kishore Mahbubani, chercheur émérite à l’Asia Research Institute de la National University of Singapore et ancien président du Conseil de sécurité des Nations unies, souligne dans son commentaire qu’« à moins que l’humanité tout entière ne s’unisse afin de coopérer et de trouver des solutions créatives et innovantes, de nombreuses sociétés seront déchirées par les tensions générées par une migration explosive. (…) Heureusement, face aux migrations internationales, il existe une solution innovante et susceptible de permettre la réélection des politiciens qui l’auront mise en œuvre. Ici, cette solution innovante s’appelle les Villes mondiales libres. »

Un avenir meilleur pour tous

Tandis que le nombre de migrants ne cesse de prendre de l’ampleur, les gouvernements et les organisations internationales sont confrontés à une pression croissante pour l’élaboration de solutions non seulement efficaces, mais aussi politiquement réalisables. Or, le modèle des Villes mondiales libres apporte une réponse à l’augmentation prévue des flux migratoires. Évolutives, ces villes peuvent être mises en œuvre de manière à offrir aux personnes déplacées la possibilité de se bâtir un nouvel avenir tout en offrant des avantages durables aux pays qui les accueillent.

Mohamed Nasheed, ancien président des Maldives et actuel secrétaire général du Climate Vulnerable Forum, déclare dans sa contribution à l’ouvrage qu’« en privilégiant des politiques inclusives et des stratégies efficaces en matière de gestion des frontières, les nations et, ce faisant, les futures Villes mondiales libres peuvent renforcer leur résilience face aux défis mondiaux, promouvoir le développement durable et atténuer les impacts négatifs des migrations forcées. »

Dans le chapitre dont il est l’auteur, le Dr Parag Khanna, fondateur et PDG d’AlphaGeo, souligne que les vagues migratoires actuelles ne concernent pas uniquement les déplacements de populations. « Elles s’inscrivent dans le cadre d’une évolution bien plus significative impliquant un changement radical dans l’organisation de la civilisation mondiale. Nous entrons dans une fenêtre d’opportunité – qui est aussi la dernière – pour assurer la survie maximale de notre espèce. Pour y parvenir, il nous faudra aller bien au–delà du simple remaniement des politiques d’immigration. Ce dont nous avons besoin, c’est d’une stratégie mondiale pour reprogrammer la géographie de la civilisation humaine vers des habitats urbains durables situés dans des lieux résilients au changement climatique. »

Contact média

Nicole Figueiredo
[email protected]
+351 91 405 83 86


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001077811)

Free Global Cities: Eine neue Vision für die Umwandlung der Migrationskrise in eine Chance

ZÜRICH, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mit dem Scheitern konventioneller Ansätze stellt Free Global Cities: The Future Leaders in Migration and Public Governance eine mutige Alternative vor: autonome Städte zur Förderung von wirtschaftlichen Möglichkeiten, Bildung und Innovation. Das von Dr. Christian H. Kälin, dem Vorsitzenden der Schweizer gemeinnützigen Organisation Andan Foundation, herausgegebene Buch vereint ein breites Spektrum renommierter globaler Führungspersönlichkeiten zur Untersuchung der Frage, wie selbstverwaltete autonome Städte geflüchteten Bevölkerungsgruppen die Möglichkeit zum Aufbau eines neuen Lebens bieten können.

Das von Bloomsbury verlegte Buch fordert Staats– und Regierungschefs sowie Bürgerinnen und Bürger dazu auf, die Problematik der aufgrund von Konflikten, Verfolgung und Klimawandel Geflüchteter zu überdenken und durch die Kombination zukunftsweisender Ideen mit umsetzbaren politischen Maßnahmen und rentablen Investitionen in Chancen umzuwandeln.

„Im Rahmen dieser Kapitel untersuchen wir eine pragmatische Lösung für die globale Flüchtlings– und Migrationskrise – die Schaffung selbstverwalteter subnationaler Strukturen, in denen Geflüchtete leben, arbeiten und Unternehmen gründen können, um letztendlich einen aktiven Beitrag zur regionalen Wirtschaft zu leisten. Mit der Umwandlung der Migration von einem Problem in einen Impulsgeber für Chancen schaffen diese Free Global Cities Möglichkeiten für Geflüchtete, sich ein neues Leben aufzubauen und gleichzeitig das Wirtschaftswachstum und die soziale Stabilität zu fördern,“erklärt Kälin.

Eine Vision der selbstverwalteten Kommunen

Das Buch enthält Beiträge von 35 führenden internationalen Experten, darunter Michael Møller, ehemaliger Untergeneralsekretär der Vereinten Nationen; Dr. Titus Gebel, Gründer und Geschäftsführer von Tipolis; Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. Paul Robert Vogt, Gründer und Präsident von EurAsia Heart; Mohamed Nasheed, ehemaliger Präsident der Malediven und Generalsekretär des Climate Vulnerable Forum; Dr. Parag Khanna, Gründer und CEO von AlphaGeo; Simon Anholt, unabhängiger Politikberater und Autor; und Mikael Ribbenvik Cassar, stellvertretender Exekutivdirektor der Asylagentur der Europäischen Union.

Gemeinsam stellen diese Experten eine umfassende Roadmap für die Zukunft der Migrationspolitik vor und zeigen, wie Free Global Cities Wohlstand, Stabilität und Entwicklung fördern können.

Kälin erklärt: „Anstatt Geflüchtete als Almosenempfänger oder als Belastung für die aufnehmende Kommune zu sehen, werden sie als Akteure des Wandels anerkannt, die in der Lage sind, ihre Fähigkeiten, Talente und Perspektiven einzubringen, wenn sie in einer neuen Heimat die Möglichkeit dazu erhalten. Durch die Förderung eines inklusiven und innovativen Umfelds möchten Free Global Cities das ungenutzte Potenzial Geflüchteter nutzbar und sie von Opfern der Umstände zu Architekten ihrer eigenen Zukunft machen.“

Michael Møller, ehemaliger Untergeneralsekretär der Vereinten Nationen, kommentiert: „Das Konzept der Free Global Cities als innovative und schnelle Lösungen für miteinander verbundene existenzielle Herausforderungen ist äußerst sinnvoll, da es ein grundlegendes und logisches Überdenken des Konzepts der Städte selbst und ihres Potenzials zur Bereitstellung eines umfassenden Wegs in die Zukunft beinhaltet.“

Prof. Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow am Asia Research Institute der National University of Singapore und ehemaliger Präsident des Sicherheitsrates der Vereinten Nationen, weist in seinem Kommentar darauf hin, dass „viele Gesellschaften durch den aufgrund der explosionsartigen Migration entstehenden Stress zerrissen werden, wenn die Menschheit als Ganzes nicht zur Kooperation und Suche nach kreativen, innovativen Lösungen zusammenfindet. (…) Glücklicherweise existiert eine innovative Lösung für die globale Migration, mit der Politiker nach der Umsetzung wiedergewählt werden können. In diesem Fall heißt diese innovative Lösung Free Global Cities.“

Eine lebenswerte Zukunft für alle

Mit den steigenden Migrationszahlen stehen Regierungen und internationale Unternehmen zunehmend unter Druck, Lösungen zu entwickeln, die nicht nur effektiv, sondern auch politisch umsetzbar sind. Das Modell Free Global Cities reagiert auf den erwarteten Anstieg der Migration. Das Konzept dieser Städte ist skalierbar und kann umgesetzt werden, damit Geflüchtete die Chance zum Aufbau einer neuen Zukunft erhalten und gleichzeitig die Länder, die sie aufnehmen, dauerhaft davon profitieren.

Mohamed Nasheed, ehemaliger Präsident der Malediven und derzeitiger Generalsekretär des Climate Vulnerable Forum, betont in seinem Beitrag, dass „Nationen und künftige Free Global Cities ihre Resilienz gegenüber globalen Herausforderungen erhöhen, eine nachhaltige Entwicklung fördern und die negativen Auswirkungen von Zwangsmigrationen abmildern können, indem sie inklusiver Politik und effektiven Grenzverwaltungsstrategien Priorität einräumen.“

In seinem Kapitel weist Dr. Parag Khanna, Gründer und CEO von AlphaGeo, darauf hin, dass es bei den heutigen Migrationswellen nicht nur um Geflüchtete geht. „Sie sind Teil einer weitaus größeren Geschichte, einer epochalen Veränderung in der Strukturierung der globalen Zivilisation. Wir stehen am Anfang eines Zeitfensters – des letzten Zeitfensters – zur Sicherung des maximalem Überlebens unserer Spezies. Für den Erfolg müssen wir mehr unternehmen, als nur an der Migrationspolitik zu arbeiten. Vielmehr bedarf es einer globalen Strategie zur Umgestaltung der Geografie der menschlichen Zivilisation hin zu nachhaltigen urbanen Lebensräumen an klimabeständigen Standorten.“

Medienkontakt

Nicole Figueiredo
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GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001077811)

Free Global Cities: A New Vision for Turning the Migration Crisis into an Opportunity

ZURICH, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As conventional approaches fail, Free Global Cities: The Future Leaders in Migration and Public Governance proposes a bold alternative — autonomous cities designed to foster economic opportunity, education, and innovation. Edited by Dr. Christian H. Kälin, Chairman of the Swiss non–profit humanitarian organisation Andan Foundation, the book brings together a wide range of distinguished global thought leaders to explore how self–sustaining autonomous cities can offer displaced populations the opportunity to build new lives.

Published by Bloomsbury, the book challenges global leaders and citizens to rethink how the displacement of people forced from their homes due to conflict, persecution and climate change can be turned into opportunity, blending forward–thinking ideas with actionable policy and profitable investment.

“Through these chapters, we explore a pragmatic solution to the global refugee and migration crisis — the creation of self–governing sub–national entities where displaced individuals can live, work, and start businesses, ultimately becoming active contributors to the local economy. By transforming migration from a problem into an engine of opportunity, these free global cities create pathways for refugees to rebuild their lives while driving economic growth and social stability,” says Kälin.

A Vision for Self–Sustaining Communities

The book features contributions from 35 leading international experts, including Michael Møller, former Under–Secretary–General of the United Nations; Dr. Titus Gebel, Founder and CEO of Tipolis; Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. Paul Robert Vogt, Founder and President of EurAsia Heart; Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Maldives and Secretary–General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum; Dr. Parag Khanna, Founder and CEO of AlphaGeo; Simon Anholt, independent policy adviser and author; and Mikael Ribbenvik Cassar, Deputy Executive Director of the EU Agency for Asylum.

Together, these experts provide a comprehensive roadmap for the future of migration governance, illustrating how Free Global Cities can drive prosperity, stability, and development.

Kälin explains that “rather than perceiving refugees as recipients of benevolence or burdens on host communities, it recognizes them as agents of change, capable of contributing their skills, talents, and perspectives if given the opportunity in a new home. By fostering environments of inclusivity and innovation, Free Global Cities seek to harness the untapped potential of displaced people, transforming them from victims of circumstance into architects of their own futures.”

Contributor Michael Møller, former Under–Secretary–General of the UN, says, “the concept of Free Global Cities as innovative and rapid solutions to intertwined existential challenges makes eminent sense because it involves a fundamental and logical rethinking of the very concept of cities and their potential to provide a comprehensive path forward.”

Prof. Kishore Mahbubani, Distinguished Fellow at the Asia Research Institute of the National University of Singapore and former President of the United Nations Security Council, points out in his commentary that “unless humanity as a whole comes together to cooperate and find creative, innovative solutions, many societies will be torn apart by stresses generated by explosive migration. (…) Fortunately, there is an innovative solution to global migration that can get politicians re–elected after carrying it out. Here, this innovative solution is called Free Global Cities.”

A Good Future for All

As migration numbers continue to grow, governments and international organizations face mounting pressure to develop solutions that are not only effective but also politically feasible. The Free Global Cities model responds to the anticipated increase in migration. These cities are scalable and can be implemented to offer displaced people the chance to build new futures for themselves, while also providing lasting benefits to the nations that host them.

Mohamed Nasheed, former President of the Maldives and current Secretary–General of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, says in his contribution that “by prioritising inclusive policies and effective border management strategies, nations and indeed future Free Global Cities can enhance their resilience against global challenges, promote sustainable development, and mitigate the negative impacts of forced migrations.”

In his chapter, Dr. Parag Khanna, Founder and CEO of AlphaGeo, points out that today’s unfolding migration waves are not just about people on the move. “They are part of a far grander story, an epochal shift in the organisation of global civilisation. We are entering a window of opportunity — the last window of opportunity — to ensure maximum survival of our species. To succeed, we will have to do more than tinker with immigration policy. Rather, we need a global strategy to reprogramme the geography of human civilisation towards sustainable urban habitats in climate–resilient locations.”

Media Contact

Nicole Figueiredo
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+351 91 405 83 86


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001077495)

Cidades globais livres (Free Global Cities): uma nova visão para transformar a crise migratória em uma oportunidade

ZURIQUE, April 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — À medida que as abordagens convencionais falham, Free Global Cities: The Future Leaders in Migration and Public Governance propõe uma alternativa ousada — cidades autônomas projetadas para promover oportunidade econômica, educação e inovação. Editado pelo Dr. Christian H. Kälin, presidente da organização humanitária suíça sem fins lucrativos Andan Foundation, o livro reúne uma ampla gama de líderes globais ilustres para explorar como as cidades autônomas autossustentáveis podem oferecer às populações deslocadas a oportunidade de construir novas vidas.

Publicado pela Bloomsbury, o livro desafia líderes e cidadãos globais a repensar como o deslocamento de pessoas forçadas a deixar suas casas devido a conflitos, perseguições e mudanças climáticas pode ser transformado em oportunidade, combinando ideias inovadoras com políticas acionáveis e investimentos lucrativos.

“Por meio desses capítulos, exploramos uma solução pragmática para a crise global de refugiados e migração – a criação de entidades subnacionais autônomas onde os indivíduos deslocados podem viver, trabalhar e iniciar negócios, tornando–se contribuintes ativos para a economia local. Ao transformar a migração de um problema em um motor de oportunidades, essas cidades globais livres criam caminhos para os refugiados reconstruírem suas vidas enquanto impulsionam o crescimento econômico e a estabilidade social”, diz Kälin.

Uma visão para comunidades autossustentáveis

O livro apresenta contribuições de 35 especialistas internacionais importantes, incluindo Michael Møller, ex–subsecretário–geral das Nações Unidas; Dr. Titus Gebel, fundador e CEO da Tipolis; Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. Paul Robert Vogt, fundador e presidente da EurAsia Heart; Mohamed Nasheed, ex–presidente das Maldivas e secretário–geral do Fórum Vulnerável ao Clima; Dr. Parag Khanna, fundador e CEO da AlphaGeo; Simon Anholt, consultor político independente e autor; e Mikael Ribbenvik Cassar, diretor executivo adjunto da Agência da UE para o Asilo.

Juntos, estes especialistas fornecem um roteiro abrangente para o futuro da governança da migração, ilustrando como Cidades Globais Livres podem impulsionar a prosperidade, a estabilidade e o desenvolvimento.

Kälin explica que “em vez de perceber os refugiados como destinatários de benevolência ou fardos para as comunidades anfitriãs, ele os reconhece como agentes de mudança, capazes de contribuir com suas habilidades, talentos e perspectivas se tiverem a oportunidade em um novo lar. Ao promover ambientes de inclusão e inovação, Cidades Globais Livres buscam aproveitar o potencial inexplorado das pessoas deslocadas, transformando–as de vítimas das circunstâncias em arquitetos de seus próprios futuros.”

O colaborador Michael Møller, ex–subsecretário–geral da ONU, diz: “o conceito de Cidades Globais Livres como soluções inovadoras e rápidas para desafios existenciais entrelaçados faz muito sentido porque envolve um repensar fundamental e lógico do próprio conceito de cidades e seu potencial para fornecer um caminho abrangente a seguir.”

O Prof. Kishore Mahbubani, membro ilustre do Instituto de Pesquisa Asiática da Universidade Nacional de Singapura e ex–presidente do Conselho de Segurança das Nações Unidas, aponta em seu comentário que “a menos que a humanidade como um todo se una para cooperar e encontrar soluções criativas e inovadoras, muitas sociedades serão dilaceradas pelo estresse gerado pela migração explosiva. (…) Felizmente, existe uma solução inovadora para a migração global que pode fazer com que os políticos sejam reeleitos depois de realizá–la. Aqui, esta solução inovadora é chamada de Cidades Globais Livres“.

Um bom futuro para todos

À medida que os números da migração continuam a crescer, os governos e as organizações internacionais enfrentam uma pressão crescente para desenvolver soluções que não sejam apenas eficazes, mas também politicamente viáveis. O modelo Cidades Globais Livres responde ao aumento previsto na migração. Essas cidades são escaláveis e podem ser implementadas para oferecer às pessoas deslocadas a chance de construir novos futuros para si mesmas, ao mesmo tempo em que proporcionam benefícios duradouros às nações que as acolhem.

Mohamed Nasheed, ex–presidente das Maldivas e atual secretário–geral do Climate Vulnerable Forum, diz em sua contribuição que “ao priorizar políticas inclusivas e estratégias eficazes de gestão de fronteiras, as nações e, de fato, as futuras Cidades Globais Livres podem aumentar sua resiliência contra os desafios globais, promover o desenvolvimento sustentável e mitigar os impactos negativos das migrações forçadas.”

Em seu capítulo, o Dr. Parag Khanna, fundador e CEO da AlphaGeo, aponta que as ondas migratórias que se desenrolam hoje não são apenas sobre pessoas em movimento. “Eles fazem parte de uma história muito maior, uma mudança histórica na organização da civilização global. Estamos entrando em uma janela de oportunidade — a última janela de oportunidade — para garantir a máxima sobrevivência de nossa espécie. Para ter sucesso, teremos que fazer mais do que mexer na política de imigração. Em vez disso, precisamos de uma estratégia global para reprogramar a geografia da civilização humana em direção a habitats urbanos sustentáveis em locais resilientes ao clima.”

Contato com a Imprensa

Nicole Figueiredo
[email protected]
+351 91 405 83 86


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001077811)

African enterprises gearing up for partnerships with Hainan Free Trade Port

HAIKOU, China, March 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Recently, a delegation from the Hainan Provincial Committee of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) visited South Africa, Ethiopia, and Egypt to promote cooperation between Hainan and Africa in various fields. The heads of many African governments and enterprises demonstrated their high expectations in free trade and wish to join hands with the province.

Hainan Provincial Committee of the CCPIT

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

At the Hainan Free Trade Port Promotion and Exchange Meetings held in Johannesburg, South Africa and Cairo, Egypt, the port's unique resources and great potential impressed political and business representatives. Ning Hongwen, president of the Hainan Provincial Committee of the CCPIT, introduced the port and its policies, negotiated the establishment of a bilateral industrial and commercial cooperation mechanism, and encouraged locals to embrace business opportunities in Hainan.

“The achievements of the Hainan Free Trade Port are remarkable, and we look forward to visiting Hainan to further unlock its potential,” Mr. Jacob Mamabolo, MEC of Gauteng province in South Africa, said during the talks.

Mr. Mohamed Bensdik (PHD), Minister Plenipotentiary of the League of Arab States (LAS) for Asian Affairs and Secretariat of the China–Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF), said that the Arab–China Business Conference, one of the most successful cooperation mechanisms of CASCF, celebrates the 20th anniversary this year. The LAS Secretariat will mobilize the business community of various countries to participate in the 11th Arab–China Business Conference & the 9th Investment Symposium in Hainan.

During this visit, the delegation also visited the investment promotion agencies, financial institutions, industrial parks, and business associations, reached consensus on supporting African stakeholders to utilize the Hainan Free Trade Port policy to open up the Chinese market, and signed six intended deals, covering finance, logistics, medicine, etc.

According to an official at the Hainan Provincial Committee of the CCPIT, Hainan is willing to leverage its policy and resource advantages as China's largest free trade port to help African enterprises thrive.

Source: Hainan Provincial Committee of the CCPIT


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 9391856)

توقعات بنمو كبير في قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية

الرياض، المملكة العربية السعودية،, March 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

يشهد قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية تحولاً جذريًا، مدفوعًا برؤية المملكة 2030 وقفزة في الاستثمارات السياحية.

تشير التقارير الأخيرة إلى أن المملكة العربية السعودية تسعى إلى زيادة مساهمة قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في الناتج المحلي الإجمالي من 3.8% إلى 8.8% بحلول عام 2030. ومن المتوقع أن يفتح هذا الهدف الطموح آفاقًا جديدة أمام الشركات ورواد الأعمال ومُنظِمي الفعاليات.

تشمل العوامل الرئيسية الدافعة لنمو قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية ما يلي:

1. الدعم الحكومي: أطلقت الحكومة السعودية مبادرات لتطوير وتعزيز قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE)، بما في ذلك تأسيس البرنامج الوطني للمعارض والمؤتمرات.
2. تطوير البنية التحتية: تستثمر مدن كبرى مثل الرياض وجدة والدمام بشكل كبير في مراكز المؤتمرات الحديثة والفنادق والبنية التحتية الداعمة لقطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE).
3. نمو قطاع السياحة: يشهد قطاع السياحة في المملكة العربية السعودية توسعًا سريعًا، مدفوعًا بإطلاق تأشيرات السياحة والاستثمارات في المَعالم السياحية والتجارب الترفيهية.

قال Jowad Khan، الرئيس التنفيذي لشركة Cynosure Worldwide: “إن قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية على وشك تحقيق قفزة نوعية هائلة.” “وبفضل الدعم المُقدم من الحكومة والاستثمارات في البنية التحتية، نتوقع أن نرى نموًا كبيرًا في القطاع خلال السنوات القادمة.”

تسعى شركة Cynosure Worldwide إلى توسيع نطاق خدماتها، والاستثمار في أحدث التقنيات، وتطوير الشراكات الاستراتيجية لتعزيز التزامها بدعم نمو القطاع في المملكة العربية السعودية.

وفيما يلي مقارنة بين قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في السوق العالمية والمملكة العربية السعودية:

قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في السوق العالمية
– حجم السوق: 802.59 مليار دولار أمريكي (2023) إلى 1,466.94 مليار دولار أمريكي (2030)
– معدل النمو: 9.1% معدل نمو سنوي مركب (2024–2030)
– قطاع الاجتماعات: حصة الإيرادات 41.3% (2023)
– قطاع الحوافز: 11.8% معدل نمو سنوي مركب (2024–2030)
– أهم الوجهات: الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية، الصين، ألمانيا، المملكة المتحدة، واليابان

قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية
– حجم السوق: 1.4 مليار دولار أمريكي (2023) إلى 5.5 مليار دولار أمريكي (2030)
– معدل النمو: 15.5% معدل نمو سنوي مركب (2024–2030)
– قطاع الاجتماعات: حصة الإيرادات 30% (2023)
– قطاع الحوافز: 12.2% معدل نمو سنوي مركب (2024–2030)
– أهم الوجهات: الرياض، جدة، ومكة

قال Jowad Khan: “إن قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية ينمو بوتيرة أسرع من المعدل العالمي.” “وللاستفادة من هذا النمو، تُوسّع شركة Cynosure Worldwide خدماتها في قطاع الاجتماعات والحوافز والمؤتمرات والمعارض (MICE) في المملكة العربية السعودية، حيث تقدم حلولاً مُصممة خصيصًا للفعاليات والمؤتمرات والمعارض. أضاف Jowad: “إن فريقنا ملتزم بتقديم فعاليات وتجارب استثنائية تبرز الثقافة الغنية للمملكة وكرم ضيافتها”.

مسؤول التواصل الإعلامي:
Syeda Mahnoor
[email protected]
+966 572862125

الصورة المرفقة بهذا البيان الصحفي متاحة على http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a3f5aab1–dc88–4e62–a249–d537b4830994


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001051404)

Saudi Arabia's MICE Industry Poised for Significant Growth

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Feb. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Saudi Arabia's Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry is on the cusp of a significant transformation, driven by the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and a surge in tourism investments.

According to recent reports, Saudi Arabia aims to increase its MICE sector's contribution to the national GDP from 3.8% to 8.8% by 2030. This ambitious goal is expected to create new opportunities for businesses, entrepreneurs, and event planners.

Key drivers of growth in Saudi Arabia's MICE industry include:

1. Government Support: The Saudi government has launched initiatives to develop and promote the MICE sector, including the establishment of the Saudi Exhibition and Convention Bureau.
2. Infrastructure Development: Major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam are investing heavily in state–of–the–art convention centers, hotels, and other MICE infrastructure.
3. Tourism Growth: Saudi Arabia's tourism sector is expanding rapidly, driven by the introduction of tourist visas and investments in attractions and experiences.

“The MICE industry in Saudi Arabia is on the verge of a major breakthrough,” said Jowad Khan, CEO of Cynosure Worldwide. “With the government's support and investments in infrastructure, we expect to see significant growth in the sector over the coming years.”

Cynosure Worldwide aims to expand its services, invest in cutting–edge technology, and foster strategic partnerships to reinforce its commitment to supporting industry growth in Saudi Arabia.

Here's a comparison of the MICE industry between the global market and Saudi Arabia:

Global MICE Industry
– Market Size: USD 802.59 billion (2023) to USD 1,466.94 billion (2030)
– Growth Rate: 9.1% CAGR (2024–2030)
– Meetings Segment: 41.3% revenue share (2023)
– Incentives Segment: 11.8% CAGR (2024–2030)
– Top Destinations: USA, China, Germany, UK, and Japan

Saudi Arabia MICE Industry
– Market Size: USD 1.4 billion (2023) to USD 5.5 billion (2030)
– Growth Rate: 15.5% CAGR (2024–2030)
– Meetings Segment: 30% revenue share (2023)
– Incentives Segment: 12.2% CAGR (2024–2030)
– Top Destinations: Riyadh, Jeddah, and Makkah

“Saudi Arabia's MICE industry is growing faster than the global average,” said Jowad Khan. “To capitalize on this growth, Cynosure Worldwide is expanding its MICE services in Saudi Arabia, offering bespoke solutions for events, conferences, and exhibitions. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional events and experiences that showcase the Kingdom's rich culture and hospitality,” added Jowad.

Media Contact:
Syeda Mahnoor
[email protected]
+966 572862125

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a3f5aab1–dc88–4e62–a249–d537b4830994


GLOBENEWSWIRE (Distribution ID 1001051252)