Emirates Press

BEIJING: China has doubled efforts to optimise payment services and enhance payment convenience, according to China’s State Council Information Office.

In a statement carried by the People’s Daily, Zhang Qingsong, Deputy Governor of the People’s Bank of China (PBOC), noted that the PBOC, in collaboration with other departments, has drafted a document on further improving payment services and enhancing payment convenience, with a focus on improving the weak links in payment services for elderly people and foreigners in China.

The document has recently been reviewed and approved by a State Council executive meeting, Zhang added.

The document highlights six key measures: promoting the usability of foreign bank cards in key places, continuously improving the cash payment environment and enhancing foreign currency exchange and cash services, making payment services more friendly to the elderly and foreigners, better protecting consumers’ right to choose payment methods, encouraging banks and payment insti
tutions to further optimise the account opening process, and carrying out diverse and targeted promotional activities.

In recent years, mobile payment has been developing rapidly in China. Yet some foreigners coming to China face challenges with mobile payment, such as the difficulty in binding their overseas bank cards and limits on spending amounts.

Zhang said the PBOC will request and instruct payment institutions such as Alipay and Tenpay to streamline their operating procedures, improve the efficiency of binding overseas bank cards, and simplify identity verification while ensuring the security of personal information.

Besides, the PBOC will also guide major payment institutions to raise the single transaction limit for overseas travellers using mobile payment from $1,000 to $5,000, and lift the annual cumulative transaction limit from $10,000 to $50,000.

Zhang indicated that efforts have been made to make foreign wallet apps usable in China, and 13 such apps have been introduced to China by
Alipay and Tenpay so far.

According to statistics, nearly 4 million foreigners used mobile payment in China last year, and made over 70 million transactions totalling more than 10 billion yuan ($1.39 billion).

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: The Technology Innovation Institute (TII), a leading global scientific research centre and the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), today announced the opening of the Abu Dhabi Quantum Optical Ground Station (ADQOGS). The state-of-the-art facility, the first in the Arab world and largest in the MENA region is dedicated to developing secure free-space optical communications.

The station will seamlessly integrate Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE into the global Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network. As one of the most mature quantum communications technologies, QKD enables secure and private communication by using quantum signals to establish encryption keys immune to tampering or interception.

While the current optical fibre infrastructure is suitable for hosting metropolitan QKD networks for distances under a hundred kilometres, significant signal loss in long-distance fibre connections renders global-scale fibre-based quantum networks impractical. T
o bridge international distances, an architecture based on free-space optical transmission between satellites and ground-based receivers is currently the only viable solution.

The ADQOGS will ensure regional connectivity, serving as a master station for the availability of ultra-secure key material, future-proofing secure networking in the UAE. The announcement further demonstrates TII’s ability to collaborate with the global research community building on its existing partnerships such as its collaboration with the National University of Singapore’s Centre for Quantum Technologies.

Located at Al Sadeem Observatory in Al Wathba, the 2,363 sqm facility hosts a fully automated astronomical dome housing an 800mm diameter tracking telescope, a control room for operational oversight, and a sophisticated weather station for sky monitoring and scintillation estimations. Complementing these facilities, a secondary platform will be made available to accommodate local and international portable optical ground sta
tions, fostering collaboration in the sector.

At the heart of the facility, ADQOGS is equipped with a versatile Quantum Acquisition and Tracking system designed at TII. The fully automated quantum receiver module detects quantum signals within the 760 nm to 860 nm wavelength range, while a unique optical system design guarantees compatibility with a wide range of uplink and downlink beacons, supporting high throughput optical modulation schemes, ranging from 680 nm to 1,600 nm.

Speaking at the opening of ADQOGS, Dr. Ray O. Johnson, CEO, TII, said, ‘The inauguration of ADQOGS goes well beyond identifying and implementing disruptive technology – it is about cultivating a hub of innovation and knowledge. Our facility epitomises the pinnacle of quantum technology while serving as a centre of excellence for training, helping to nurture the emerging quantum technology sector in the UAE. For a relatively young entity such as ours, I am proud that we are actively shaping the future of secure data transmission o
n a global scale.’

Dr. James Grieve, Senior Director of TII’s Quantum Research Centre, said, ‘ADQOGS marks an important milestone in the UAE’s pursuit of technological leadership. The station prioritises technological sovereignty in quantum communication, and it will bolster the country’s growing credibility in advanced technology and innovation, positioning the UAE as a global hub for quantum research and development.’

Ibrahim Hamza Al Qasim, Deputy Director-General at the UAE Space Agency, said, ‘We applaud this exciting new development that will give the UAE greater technological leadership in the very important field of secure communications. The UAE Space Agency is delighted to support this initiative, and we look forward to the outcomes of the first experiments.’

As part of ATRC’s vision to transform Abu Dhabi’s economic landscape, ADQOGS is committed to fast-tracking commercialisation opportunities in secure communication technologies and expanding their application across sectors such as tele
communications, data centres, finance, and critical infrastructure. The station will bridge the gap between quantum research and practical applications while advancing quantum secure communication infrastructure in the UAE.

Source: Emirates News Agency

BEIJING: Liu Zhongmin, a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), said that, through cooperation, the Middle East and China can not only ensure a stable energy supply but also jointly promote the green transformation of the energy ecosystem.

China Economic Net quoted Liu Zhongmin, who is also an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, as saying, ‘The Middle East boasts abundant petroleum and natural gas resources, while China leads the world in energy technologies. Through cooperation, both sides can not only ensure a stable energy supply but also jointly promote the green transformation of the energy structure.’

Liu Zhongmin emphasised China’s commitment to cooperation with the Middle East. ‘Multiple joint ventures have been established, and forums have been held to foster collaboration. China has maintained a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Aramco Company for over ten years. Research and development centres have been co-established
to explore new areas of interest. China’s advanced technologies in energy and chemicals are also exported to the Middle East [to] support local development.’

According to a report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), based on the energy transition plans announced by Middle Eastern countries, the total renewable energy capacity in the region is projected to exceed 192 gigawatts by 2030, which is 17 times the current level. Cooperation between China and Middle Eastern countries in the field of new energy has the potential to accelerate this process.

Regarding the development of the hydrogen energy industry, Liu highlighted the unique advantages of the Middle East. “In terms of fossil resources, the Middle East has abundant natural gas. Natural gas is the most cost-effective way to produce hydrogen. The Middle East also has excellent photovoltaic resources, which can be used for photovoltaic power generation and electrolysis of water to produce hydrogen, promoting the development of the green hydrogen
industry,” explained Liu.

Liu Zhongmin emphasised China’s leading technology in the hydrogen energy industry. “China’s proton exchange membrane electrolysis technology is almost at the world’s leading level,” stated Liu.

He revealed that China is building large-scale electrolysis plants, and there is great potential for implementing these technologies in the Middle East.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen economic cooperation between Abu Dhabi and the Slovak Republic, with special focus on manufacturing, tourism, innovation, advanced technologies, and logistics services.

The MoU represents a pivotal step in fostering robust bilateral relations between both parties, underpinned by shared commitment to fostering economic prosperity. Recognising the essential role of economic cooperation in fortifying ties between nations, the MoU will facilitate collaborative initiatives to streamline trade and knowledge sharing while facilitating investment and innovation in Abu Dhabi.

In line with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to creating a vibrant investment ecosystem, ADDED and the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic have agreed to stimulate various forms of cooperation that encompass investment initiatives in Slovakia’s economy, particularl
y in infrastructure development projects.

Rashed Abdulkarim Al Blooshi, Under-Secretary of ADDED, said, ‘This agreement marks a significant milestone in enhancing economic ties between Abu Dhabi and the Slovak Republic, laying the groundwork for fruitful collaboration in various sectors,’

‘By fostering this strategic partnership, Abu Dhabi takes a bold step towards building a more robust global investment ecosystem. This agreement will not only deepen economic cooperation but also significantly contribute to the economic diversification efforts of Abu Dhabi, positioning the Emirate as a key player in the international investment landscape,’ Al Blooshi added.

Vladimír Šimonák, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic, said, ‘The potential for economic cooperation between Slovakia and Abu Dhabi is substantial with opportunities that can be leveraged for mutual benefit. Both Slovakia and Abu Dhabi can explore avenues to enhance bilateral trade or investment cooperation. Abu Dhab
i’s investment capabilities can be channelled into various sectors in Slovakia together with expertise in large-scale infrastructure projects which can complement Slovakia’s infrastructure needs. I see a lot of opportunities for our companies to benefit from joint MoU, this includes various fields such infrastructure development, technology, renewable energy, and innovation.’

Abu Dhabi and the Slovak Republic bilateral trade and mutual investments are on the rise. With many opportunities to increase cooperation, this agreement between ADDED and the Ministry of Economy of the Slovak Republic will pave the way to investors to benefit from ample opportunities.

The Slovak Republic is an attractive destination for foreign direct investment (FDI), with a favourable geographic location in the heart of Europe. Manufacturing industries, including automotive, machinery and transport equipment, metallurgy, electronics, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals have the potential for further growth.

The MoU underscores the
importance of encouraging investment and joint ventures, facilitating the entry of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and startups into the Abu Dhabi market, and creating suitable conditions for Slovak companies within special economic zones in Abu Dhabi. It promotes the establishment of relations between financial institutions and the creation of a joint investment fund to bolster economic ties. This strategic partnership underscores the significance of international collaboration to diversify the Emirate’s economy and increase contributions to non-oil GDP.

Source: Emirates News Agency

SHARJAH: The 34th edition of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival kicks off today (Friday) amidst a vibrant festive ambience, marking an extensive 37-day event organised by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) to embrace the holy month.

The event will run until 13th April, 2024, covering various cities and regions across the emirate.

Regarded as one of the most prominent promotional and entertainment destinations, the Sharjah Ramadan Festival presents a line-up of events and entertainment activities, that enhance the festive shopping experience.

These activities, which cater to Sharjah’s residents and visitors from both domestic and international markets, include diverse programmes and competitions tailored to meet the preferences of different segments.

Major commercial hubs in the emirate will participate in the event, as will brand agents, productive families, entrepreneurs, and small-business owners. The festival also boasts the involvement of numerous retail outlets, all eager to unveil
their promotional campaigns featuring various products and global brands.

Furthermore, the festival enables its audience from Sharjah’s residents and visitors to have access to a diverse range of products offered by renowned global brands at competitive prices, with discounts of up to 75 percent.

Beyond retail opportunities, attendees can indulge in entertainment activities showcasing a curated blend of heritage-themed activities, seamlessly integrated with the shopping experience, along with competitions and giveaways of valuable prizes that permeate the promotional activities in store at numerous participating malls and shops.

Emphasising the Sharjah Chamber’s commitment to sustaining the success and significance of this prestigious event, Mohammad Ahmed Amin Al Awadi, Director-General of the SCCI, noted that the festival’s latest edition has focused on achieving its primary goals of supporting the retail sector, developing various economic sectors, and providing the emirate’s residents and visitor
s with distinctive and diverse experiences.

He stressed that these goals elevate Sharjah’s profile as a premier and attractive destination that captivates visitors and sightseers, shedding light on its economic, social, and touristic significance and status.

Ibrahim Rashid Al Jarwan, Director of Economic Relations and Marketing at SCCI and General Coordinator of the Sharjah Ramadan Festival, pointed out that the 34th edition of the event boasts a distinguished array of remarkable entertainment activities, alongside exciting draws, valuable prizes, and promotional incentives, spanning across the emirate’s cities and regions throughout the Holy Month.

He added that the Sharjah Chamber has coordinated with its partners across various economic sectors to orchestrate a unique festival edition. It guarantees a season that fosters the prosperity of the retail sector and delivers unforgettable shopping experiences for the emirate’s residents and visitors.

Source: Emirates News Agency

NAIROBI: In an unprecedented move that positions Kenya at the forefront of the global digital economy, President William Samoei Ruto has witnessed the MoU signing between EcoCloud and G42, a pioneering project destined to revolutionize the digital landscape not just in East Africa, but across the globe. Powered by the untapped potential of Kenya’s 10 gigawatts of geothermal energy, the mega data center is the first of its kind in scale and ambition, heralding a new era of green energy-driven digital infrastructure.

Strategically located in Kenya’s geothermal-rich region, the EcoCloud-G42 Mega Data Center is planned to have initial capacity of 100 MW, but with the potential to build up to 1 Gigawatt, setting a new standard for sustainable data centers. This initiative is not just an investment in technology but a bold statement of Kenya’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy for technological advancement. By leveraging the earth’s heat, the project dramatically cuts fossil fuel dependence, slashes carbo
n emissions, and stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship. The collaboration between EcoCloud, a trailblazer in data center development, and G42, the leading UAE-based technology conglomerate, marks a significant leap in Kenya’s journey toward becoming a digital hub. This strategic partnership underlines a shared vision for fostering a robust digital infrastructure that not only accelerates the country’s digital transformation but also fortifies its position as a leader in technology-driven development.

This strategic agreement was signed by Eng. Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud and Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, leading the UAE delegation, in the presence of President William Samoei Ruto of Kenya, and Dr. Salim Ibrahim Binahmed Mohammed Alnaqbi, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Kenya.

This partnership is not just about erecting a digital infrastructure; it’s a foundation for a comprehensive ecosystem that includes cloud services and artificial intelligence, catering to the vibrant and youthf
ul population of Kenya. The MoU between extends beyond infrastructure, aiming to usher in an era of cloud computing and AI services. This initiative promises to unlock unprecedented economic opportunities, stimulate innovation, and drive the digital economy forward, making Kenya the centre of technological innovation in Africa and a competitive player on the global stage.

Eng. Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud, said: ‘This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By harnessing the power of geothermal energy, we are not only meeting the region’s data needs but also setting a new standard for eco-friendly infrastructure. This partnership underscores our dedication to a greener, more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.”

Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, said: “In establishing this strategic partnership with EcoCloud, G42 is proud to be at the forefront of combining groundbreaking technology with sustainability. This geothermal-powered data center is a milesto
ne towards realizing Kenya’s potential as a global digital hub and fulfilling our mission of making intelligence accessible to everyone, everywhere.’

The launch of this mega data center is a clear call for innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. It invites the world to witness Kenya’s transformation into a digital hub, powered by green energy and driven by the unwavering vision of its leaders.

Source: Emirates News Agency