The Russian presidential elections were held for three days from March 15 to 17. Under Russian presidential election regulations, a candidate who receives more than 50 percent of the votes will secure victory.
Category: News
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Donald Trump criticizes U.S. aid to Ukraine
He made these comments during a campaign event in Vandalia, Ohio, suggesting, “We should be lending them the money instead of just giving it to them. That will keep them on their toes and eventually they will have to pay us back. Lend it to them so they feel it’s their responsibility. Don’t just hand them $60 billion.”
Trump continued by expressing his astonishment at the amount of money Zelenskyy manages to bring back to Ukraine from the U.S., saying, “Every time [Zelenskyy] comes to America, he leaves with $50 billion or $60 billion. That’s money I’ve never made in my life. He’s truly a better businessman.”
Trump’s comments come in the context of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine that began in February 2022. Since the conflict’s onset, the U.S. has been the leading supporter of Kyiv’s government, providing a total of $113 billion in military, economic, and general aid.
He also criticized NATO countries for what he described as their mockery of American “stupidity” for providing substantial assistance to Ukraine.
The U.S. recently announced plans to provide Ukraine with $300 billion in military aid, intending to use $285 billion of Russian assets seized by the U.S. to finance weapons to support Ukraine.
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Shunyi District: Where Beijing’s ancient heritage meets modern-day prosperity
With its roots stretching back to the times of Yan State during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods, Shunyi has evolved from its ancient moniker, Shunzhou, into a modern-day beacon of high-end manufacturing, international exchanges, and urban-rural harmony.
The district with its strategic location, booming economy, comprehensive public services, remarkable natural environment, and its status as a hub of internationalization, is not just living up to its historic legacy but is on the fast track to defining the future of Beijing.
{{Strategic significance}}
Shunyi District stands out as a testament to strategic urban planning and development. It is positioned as a critical zone for international aviation, an innovation-driven economic powerhouse, and a model for urban-rural coordination.
Its transport infrastructure is unparalleled, with the Beijing Capital International Airport, two metro lines, and six expressways making it a nexus of connectivity.
The district’s ongoing development of major infrastructure projects, like the Beijing-Miyun Expressway and BCIA landside MRT Line, underscores its role as a key gateway to Beijing and beyond.
{{Economic dynamism}}
Shunyi’s economy is a robust blend of the airport economy, high-end services, and modern manufacturing.
The establishment of the BCIA Airport Economic Zone has catapulted Shunyi into the forefront of China’s airport economy, supported by favorable policies and a thriving industry cluster effect.
With over 60% of its GDP stemming from high-end services and home to approximately 500 prestigious financial institutions, Shunyi’s financial sector is booming.
The district also takes pride in its modern manufacturing landscape, featuring leaders in automobile manufacturing, aviation, and high-tech industries.
{{Public services and cultural flourish}}
Shunyi District excels in providing top-notch public services, from its comprehensive business service packages to its rich cultural and educational landscape.
It hosts three universities, numerous high-quality schools, and cultural landmarks that have become iconic internet-famous sites. The district’s commitment to public culture has led to the establishment of extensive culture complexes and coverage of cultural centers, fostering a vibrant community life.
{{Environmental oasis}}
Shunyi’s natural environment is a jewel within Beijing. With two main rivers, expansive green spaces, and the largest swamp wetland in Beijing’s flatlands, the district is a green model city and a national ecology demonstration zone.
Its commitment to environmental sustainability is evident in its high green coverage rates and the normalized appearance of blue-sky days, making it an exemplary livable town.
{{Internationalization}}
Shunyi District’s internationalization efforts have fostered a vibrant expatriate community, supported by a network of international schools and global business forums.
The district’s welcoming environment for foreigners, coupled with its active participation in international relations, positions Shunyi as a cosmopolitan hub within Beijing.
{{Forward-looking}}
As Shunyi District continues to develop, it holds fast to its vision of being a key new town in the flatlands, leading in high-end manufacturing and the development of the “Two Zones”.
By harnessing new development concepts and integrating into Beijing’s overall growth strategy, Shunyi is not just looking towards its future but is actively shaping it.
Shunyi District is more than a geographic location; it’s a dynamic community where history, innovation, and livability converge.
It offers a unique blend of opportunities for residents, businesses, and visitors alike, making it a prime destination for those seeking to experience the future of Beijing’s urban development.
With its solid foundation and forward-looking vision, Shunyi District stands ready to welcome the world to its doorstep, embodying the essence of a strong industry, excellent city, and beautiful life.
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Rwanda and DRC: An uncertain future despite mediation attempts
The DRC government accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 group and decided to terminate economic and transportation agreements with Rwanda. In February 2022, the DRC also expelled the Rwandan Ambassador, Vincent Karega. Rwanda refutes the allegations and urges DRC to solve internal problems without dragging neighbors into its mess.
Tensions continued to rise between the two nations, especially after the Shootings from the DRC into Musanze District in March, May, and June, until Presidents Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi met in Angola in July 2022.
During mediation talks led by Angolan President João Lourenço, the leaders agreed to de-escalate tensions.
Despite the resolutions made in Luanda, tensions persisted. In September 2022, French President Emmanuel Macron facilitated a meeting between Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, where they agreed to alleviate tensions and collaborate in combating terrorism.
In November 2022, President Lourenço visited both countries to discuss adherence to their agreements, aiming to prevent severe consequences, including war between Rwanda and the DRC.
However, an agreement reached in a meeting in Luanda to cease fighting in North Kivu and disarm M23 and FDLR was not honored.
Guinea-Bissau’s President, also the leader of the West African regional bloc, visited Rwanda and the DRC for mediation talks, but the outcomes were not disclosed and appeared inconclusive as fighting continued and the DRC maintained accusations against Rwanda, which Rwanda denied.
In October 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres released a six-month report on the security situation in the Great Lakes region, warning of the potential for open conflict between the DRC and Rwanda due to reciprocal accusations of supporting armed groups.
The United States entered the mediation effort towards the end of 2023, committing to help the two countries improve their relationship, including intelligence support. Following U.S. intervention, Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi agreed to reduce military presence near their borders and disarm the M23 and FDLR.
However, France accused Rwanda of supporting M23 in December 2023, showing a biased stance towards the DRC’s complaints. The Rwandan government criticized these accusations, highlighting historical instances of France’s involvement in the region, particularly through ‘Operation Turquoise’.
The U.S. also showed a biased stance towards the DRC in February 2024, urging Rwanda to stop supporting M23 and withdraw troops alleged to be in North Kivu, while seemingly ignoring the DRC’s collaboration with FDLR. This led Rwanda to question the impartiality of the U.S.’s mediation efforts, suggesting a politicized approach.
Presidents Kagame and Tshisekedi have agreed to meet and discuss resolutions to their issues, with President Lourenço facilitating the talks, though the timing and location have not been confirmed.
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KKOG becomes first company to secure cannabis export license
KKOG Rwanda is a subsidiary of KKOG GLOBAL. -a US corporation incorporated under the laws of the State of California, United States, whose mission is to become the market-leader in medical cannabis cultivation on the African continent.
The company capitalizes on its ability to cultivate world-class organic medical cannabis and develop industry-leading growing, propagation and crop selection techniques. With a focus on the African continent, KKOG Inc. has developed key partnerships and global distribution channels alongside a unique local community development model that allows for capacity building and economic growth opportunities.
Its operations are spread across African countries including Rwanda- where the company assisted the Government of Rwanda (GoR) in its framework, but also commenced the construction of Rwanda’s first cannabis facility on 5-hectares in Musanze district-which is scheduled to be completed in May 2024.
“The facility will be the first of its kind with extraction and research components as well as cannabis end product development. There are plans to begin distillation to create the first cannabis infused liquors at the facility in 2025,” said Rene Joseph, the Founder and CEO of KKOG Rwanda.
In 2010, the Ministry of Health proposed a law to allow cannabis to be used for medical purposes in the country.
In 2021, Rwanda passed an order making cannabis legal for medicinal purposes.
Although Rwanda legalized medical marijuana, recreational cannabis uses and sales remain illegal in the country and the Rwandan government enforces strict penalties for the illicit production, distribution, and consumption of cannabis.
For instance, Rwanda Development Board (RDB) said that they will ensure that in no way the cannabis growth can leak out of the farm to go to the domestic market or to the wrong users. RDB stated that the cannabis crops will be in a designated place, and there will be very strong measures, whether it is CCTV cameras, watch towers, street lights, and human security- meaning that the process involved will extremely secure.
RDB says the legalization of cannabis for medical use doesn’t affect the legal framework of the country but considers cannabis production as a top investment opportunity as global cannabis production were projected to grow from $28.3 billion raked in 2021, to $197.7 billion in 2028 at a compound annual growth rate of 32 percent.
RDB has projected that Rwanda can attract at least Rwf19 billion (about $17.5 million) investment in the production of cannabis for export and KKOG has invested $10 million since coming to the local market to unlock this potential.
KKOG CEO, Joseph says he commends the government for embracing the economic potential of medicinal cannabis, the decision not only opens doors for exponential job growth but also signifies a progressive approach towards expanding Rwanda’s GDP.
“I extend my sincere gratitude to all parties involved. The Government of Rwanda has been integral in pioneering this legislation, we recognize their foresight and dedication to fostering growth and innovation,” Joseph said in a statement.
“I would be remiss to not mention the efforts of RDB staff of whom without their assistance and direction this endeavor would not have been as smooth and clear today,” he noted. There are others companies in Rwanda who already have “provisional license” to do the same but in order to get an actual license, the companies are required to purchase the land and build a facility on it just as KKOG – which is the only one to do so far.
{{Access to markets and scalability}}
KKOG is the largest licensed company in Africa with other multiple cannabis extraction facilities on the continent: 1000 hectares in DR Congo, 500 hectares in Zimbabwe as well as a extraction and research factory in Masasa in Harare, 200 hectare farm and seedbank in Malawi, 140 hectares in South Africa; as well as a presence in Lesotho, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Uganda, and Tanzania among others.
KKOG says it has committed to fulfil its objectives to empower and train small and commercial farmers in financing their desire to enter the sector as well as be their exclusive Off-taker, thus sowing the seeds of financial prosperity for all.
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UK’s plan to deport migrants to Rwanda could cost billions of pounds, says IPPR
According to IPPR, deporting 20,000 migrants who have entered the UK since 2023 could cost between £1.1 billion and £3.9 billion. This means that the transfer of each migrant to Rwanda could cost around £228,000.
Marley Morris, an IPPR Associate director focusing on migration, trade, and communities, argued that deporting migrants to Rwanda would be more expensive for the UK government than supporting them within the UK.
He stated, “In this government program, billions will be sent to Rwanda to deport people who have arrived in the UK illegally since the passage of the law governing unauthorized migrants.”
A spokesperson for the UK’s Home Office criticized the IPPR’s figures as speculative and accused them of ignoring the facts and emphasized that without innovative solutions, the cost of housing migrants could reach £11 billion per year by 2026.
He argued that illegal migration endangers lives and fosters human trafficking, justifying the search for solutions to this long-standing issue.
The spokesperson further suggested that deporting migrants to Rwanda is a cost-effective measure aiming to prevent unauthorized entry into the UK.
The strategy is part of an updated agreement between the UK and Rwanda signed in December 2023, intending to deport approximately 30,000 migrants to Kigali over five years.
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Inside Sinopharm Bonded, China’s pioneer in international pharmaceutical logistics
According to the management, Sinopharm Bonded’s mission transcends mere logistics; it is about nurturing a healthier tomorrow. Located strategically within the Beijing Capital International Airport (BCIA) Economic Zone , it sprawls across 80 acres, boasting a state-of-the-art facility that spans 26,000 square meters.
Since its inception in 2014, Sinopharm Bonded has not just been a facility; it’s been a revolution in pharmaceutical supply chain management, adhering to the stringent GSP specifications, setting benchmarks in quality and reliability.
The center is a hub of activity, where the finest minds and the latest technology converge to ensure that healthcare products reach their destinations across the globe efficiently and safely.
It is a testament to China’s commitment to becoming a pivotal player in international health service provision, hosting world-renowned clients such as Novartis Pharmaceuticals among others.
{{Technological prowess and strategic advantage}}
Sinopharm Bonded leverages cutting-edge technology to operate two modern warehouses equipped with a myriad of storage environments to cater to the specific needs of pharmaceuticals, including room-temperature, fully shaded, refrigerated, and even deep-freeze storage.
The integration of advanced systems such as the Manhattan Associate WMS for warehouse management, a comprehensive temperature and humidity monitoring system, and a highly sophisticated Transport Management System (TMS) for transportation and delivery, exemplifies their commitment to excellence and innovation.
Positioned within the fully integrated Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and airport area, Sinopharm Bonded enjoys unparalleled advantages for customs clearance services. This strategic location allows for streamlined operations, from once-and-for-all customs clearance services to intricate cargo management within the bonded area, emphasizing efficiency and expediency in handling imported pharmaceuticals.
{{The heart of innovation}}
At the forefront of Sinopharm Bonded’s technological prowess is its three-dimensional warehouse, a marvel of automation and efficiency. This facility, covering 2,914.56 square meters with a towering height of 18 meters, is outfitted with 5,600 cargo spaces distributed over seven floors.
It epitomizes the future of warehousing with its fully automated operations, maintained within stringent temperature and humidity parameters to ensure the integrity of pharmaceutical products.
The incorporation of an automated library system further underscores Sinopharm Bonded’s dedication to providing customized, innovative, and diversified supply chain solutions. This approach not only caters to the pharmaceutical and health industries but also sets a new standard in logistics service provision.
{{A legacy of top notch supply chain services}}
Over the past decade, Sinopharm Bonded has evolved into a leader in international pharmaceutical supply chain services.
As the firm’s management says, its journey is marked by continuous innovation, rigorous quality audits by multinational pharmaceutical corporations, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
After a decade of relentless progress within the industry, Sinopharm Bonded has emerged as the preeminent leader in international pharmaceutical supply chain services. The company has successfully met the stringent quality standards of over ten global pharmaceutical giants, including Novartis, Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Takeda, Jetbelin, and Lundbeck Pharmaceuticals.
Throughout this period, thanks to the backing of the Administrative Committee, Customs, the Food and Drug Administration, and other key agencies, Sinopharm Bonded has benefited from several advantageous policies.
These include the implementation of intelligent checkpoints, the centralization of distribution declarations, enhanced supervision of cargo locations, the simplification of customs procedures with single clearance and the option for multiple declarations, along with streamlined drug testing processes.
{{A hub of comprehensive services}}
Sinopharm Bonded is more than just a warehouse; it’s a comprehensive service provider.
From heavy-duty racking areas designed for optimal storage conditions to specialized cold chain logistics ensuring product integrity from transportation to storage, every aspect of the operation is meticulously planned and executed.
The racking areas cover 2,016.11 square meters and 2,143.23 square meters with a height of 14 meters, and house approximately 3,676 cargo spaces.
Meanwhile, the cold storage areas, equipped with advanced refrigeration systems and dual-circuit power supplies, reflect the attention to detail and the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of product safety and quality.
As Sinopharm Bonded continues to expand its services and capabilities, it stands not just as a company but as a symbol of the future of pharmaceutical logistics.
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Eight peacekeepers injured in attack in eastern DR Congo
This attack occurred in Sake, a town located about 20 km from Goma, capital of the eastern province of North Kivu, MONUSCO said in a press release published late Saturday.
Bintou Keita, head of MONUSCO, condemned the attack in the strongest terms, saying one of the victims was seriously injured.
For weeks, the Blue Helmets have been deployed as part of Operation Springbok in North Kivu, where MONUSCO and the DRC armed forces (FARDC) are carrying out joint actions to counter armed groups, in particular the rebellion of the March 23 Movement (M23).
While calling for an immediate cessation of violence of all armed groups against civilians, Keita reaffirmed MONUSCO’s commitment to strengthening joint and unilateral patrols alongside the FARDC to protect civilian populations.
“I particularly call on the M23 armed group to lay down their arms,” she added.
The town of Sake, considered the last barrier for the city of Goma, has been plagued by repeated fightings between the FARDC and M23 rebels for months.
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AU commission discusses election of new leadership
The discussion took place on Friday at the African Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, during the 22nd extraordinary session of the executive council. Senior officials, including Moussa Faki Mahamat, the chairperson of the AU Commission, were present.
Speaking on the occasion, chairperson of the executive council of the AUC Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug underscored the need to strengthen the AU institutions to help the commission fully discharge its responsibilities and accelerate Africa’s integration.
“The process of selecting leadership of the AUC in 2025 should be defined by prioritizing considerations of cohesion, equity, rationality, and a spirit of consensus,” said Merzoug, also Mauritania’s minister for foreign affairs.
The 2025-2028 election of senior leadership for the AUC will take place in February next year. New AUC leaders are expected to succeed the incumbent chairperson, deputy chairperson and commissioners.
“Our vision for the future of our continent is intricately linked to our fervent belief in the African Union, a union that cannot exist without us, by us, and for us,” said the chairperson, noting that a strong AU cannot be materialized without the deep commitment of its member states.
The AU’s senior leadership is elected to serve a four-year term, with the option for re-election for another four-year term. The senior elective posts include the position of the African Union Commission chairperson, the deputy chairperson and six commissioners.
According to a statement released late Friday by the AU, the executive council also discussed the modalities of regional rotation and gender parity to ensure all five regions of the AU have a fair chance of having leadership roles at the continental organization.
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Robots to be integrated into student learning programs
This pioneering initiative is designed to weave the use of robots into the fabric of education, commencing at the primary school level. Within this framework, educators will leverage robots, equipped with cutting-edge technology, as a medium to deliver conventional curriculum content to students.
The rationale behind this innovative approach is grounded in observations that the inclusion of robots in pedagogy significantly enhances student engagement, particularly in the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
This method not only makes learning more enjoyable for students but also plays a crucial role in bolstering their innovative thinking and creativity.
Moreover, these robots act as tangible educational tools, enabling students to put theory into practice. This hands-on methodology aids in a more comprehensive exploration and comprehension of academic concepts, thereby nurturing a deeper level of student engagement through firsthand interaction and observation.
Oversight of the program will be provided by the Ministry of Education, with the Rwanda Education Board (REB) and the Rwanda TVET Board (RTB) conducting daily supervisions.
The program’s official launch was spearheaded by Ingabire Musoni Paula, the Minister of Information Technology and Innovation, and Twagirayezu Gaspard, the Minister of Education, on Friday, March 15, 2024.
The launch event saw the participation of notable individuals such as Belén Calvo Uyarra, the European Union Ambassador to Rwanda, and Primus Peter, the German Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires in Rwanda, along with representatives from various sectors.
Minister Ingabire articulated that the initiative to integrate robots into the educational sector is a result of a joint endeavor with the Ministry of Education, aimed at acquainting students with robotics and artificial intelligence – key components in the modern era of the fourth industrial revolution.
Minister Twagirayezu Gaspard underscored the program’s objective to equip students with critical problem-solving capabilities via contemporary technology. He expressed the imperative of congregating collective efforts to furnish students with essential knowledge resources for their academic pursuits.
Twagirayezu also highlighted that this initiative is about bringing people together to ensure students are well-equipped with the knowledge they need in their studies.”
In Rwanda, the emphasis on augmenting the population’s capabilities through education stems from the belief in its people as the nation’s most valuable resource.
To this end, initially, five tech companies specializing in robotics have been selected to devise educational robots for use across various disciplines.
This includes technology aimed at teaching internet-related subjects (Internet of Things – IoT), robotics technology for illustrating heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems for Electrical Technology and ICT Networking students, as well as robotics technology to support science education for high school students, ICT for freshmen and sophomores, and technology for primary schoolers in grades four and five, with a focus on fostering creativity, understanding of electricity, and beyond.
Norman Schraepel, the Head of Cluster Digital Transformation & Digital Economy at GIZ Rwanda, reflected on the importance of this endeavor and the path forward. He advocated for the expansion of this pilot program to a national scale through collaborative efforts, stating, “Collaboration is key to the success of this program.”
Within the upcoming three months, the companies involved are expected to finalize the development of the robotics technology.
This will be followed by a phase dedicated to training teachers on how to integrate these technologies into their instructional practices. Initially, the program will be piloted in 15 schools across Rwanda, benefiting more than 500 students.
