Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Posted on

Africa – Finalists Announced for the 2025 Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) Awards

SOURCE: Africa Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF)

Held annually as part of the AWIEF Conference, the AWIEF Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs and business leaders across the African continent

CAPE TOWN, South Africa, September 3, 2025 –  The Africa Women Innovation & Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) (www.AWIEForum.org) announces the finalists for the prestigious AWIEF Awards for 2025.

Held annually as part of the AWIEF Conference, the AWIEF Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs and business leaders across the African continent. The aim is to shine a spotlight on women who are driving innovation, building impactful businesses, advancing gender equality, and contributing to Africa's inclusive economic growth and sustainable development.

“The AWIEF Awards are a powerful platform to honour women whose innovation, resilience, and leadership are shaping the future of Africa,” said Irene Ochem, AWIEF Founder and CEO. “Our 2025 finalists embody the transformative role women entrepreneurs play in creating a more sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous Africa.”

This year's finalists were selected by an international panel of judges from a highly competitive pool of outstanding nominees spanning diverse sectors, from technology and agriculture to energy, creative industries, and social entrepreneurship. Their journeys exemplify the resilience, ingenuity, and leadership of African women shaping the future of the continent.

AWIEF AWARDS 2025 FINALISTS (listed in alphabetical order)

Young Entrepreneur Award

Norah Kimathi – Kenya
Enyo Kossiwa Midjresso-Amouzou – Togo
Chisom Victory Okorie – Nigeria

Empowerment Award

Mathildah Amollo – Kenya
Naima Mohamed – Somalia
Mampho Sotshongaye – South Africa

Energy Entrepreneur Award

Chenez Henderson – South Africa
Rufaro Marufu – Zimbabwe
Nidal Tafah – Morocco

Creative Industry Award

Mahlet Afework – Ethiopia
Stella Ndekile – Nigeria
Soraya da Piedade – Angola

Social Entrepreneur Award

Farana Boodhram – South Africa
Naom Monari – Kenya
Barbara Nabigambo – Uganda

Agri Entrepreneur Award

Linda Davis – Kenya
Ruth Ede – Nigeria
Millicent Okumu – Kenya
Josephine Takundwa – Zimbabwe

Tech Entrepreneur Award

Vivian Arinaitwe – Uganda
Maryanne Gichanga – Kenya
Naledi Magowe – Botswana

Recognizing Africa's Women Leaders

The AWIEF Awards continue to champion women-led innovation and enterprise across Africa, celebrating women who are not only creating successful businesses but also making a positive social and economic impact in their communities and beyond.

Join Us at AWIEF2025

The winners of the AWIEF Awards 2025 will be announced at awards ceremony and gala dinner which will take place during the AWIEF Conference, Exhibition and Awards, taking place on 30 – 31 October 2025 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa.

Don't miss this opportunity to join the celebration and connect with Africa's most inspiring women entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, and business leaders.

To register and book your delegate ticket for AWIEF2025, please follow this link: https://apo-opa.co/3HY5cDF

Posted on

Africa – South Africa’s Rail Reforms to Bolster Mineral Trade

SOURCE: Energy Capital & Power

African Mining Week will showcase opportunities within Africa's mineral logistics sector
CAPE TOWN, South Africa, September 3, 2025 – South Africa is revamping its rail logistics infrastructure and services through strategic investments and partnerships to enhance mineral distribution across local and export markets.

The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference – Africa's premier gathering for mining stakeholders, scheduled for October 1 – 3, 2025 in Cape Town – will feature a dedicated panel discussion exploring the readiness of Africa's logistics sector to drive increasing mineral flows. Titled From Mines to Markets: Strengthening Trade and Connectivity for Africa's Mineral Future, the panel will showcase cooperation between mining projects and logistics operators in building a competitive mineral trade ecosystem.

In August 2025, South Africa approved licenses (https://apo-opa.co/3HFsGxn) for 11 new private operators to run trains and logistics services across its national rail network. State-owned logistics company Transnet will grant 10-year licenses enabling new private investments in rail infrastructure and unlocking an additional 20 million tons of freight annually from the 2026/27 financial year. The milestone aligns with South Africa's target to raise total rail haulage to 250 million tons per annum by 2029, covering minerals and other key goods.

Transnet has also entered into strategic partnerships with mining firms to boost rail efficiency. The firm signed an agreement with Exxaro Resources in August 2025 to improve rail infrastructure and expand capacity between the mining firm's 3.6 million tons per annum Leeuwpan coal mine in Mpumalanga and domestic, regional and international markets. The partnership supports Exxaro's 2025 sales target of 38.3 to 42.4 million tons of coal, including up to 7.2 million tons for export, while advancing South Africa's broader goals of export growth, GDP expansion and job creation. Similarly, in July 2025, United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK) (https://apo-opa.co/47UHRNB) concluded a 10-year deal with Transnet to transport manganese from its Northern Cape operations to ports for export, bolstering the country's drive to maximize critical mineral exports under its upcoming Critical Minerals Strategy (https://apo-opa.co/3Vw5TXQ).

A series of funds have also been allocated to strengthen rail and port operations. In July 2025, an additional R94.8 billion in government support was approved for Transnet, following a R51 billion package in May 2025. International partners have also stepped in, with the New Development Bank extending a $278 million loan and the African Development Bank approving a $1 billion loan to upgrade the country's logistics backbone.

At AMW 2025, these milestones will be unpacked to assess their impact on South Africa and the wider continent's mining and logistics landscape, while underscoring the crucial role of rail in ensuring sustainable growth across Africa's mineral value chains.

Posted on

Moldova: Vienna Insurance Group Acquires Moldasig S.A

Source: Invest Moldova Agency

Chisinau, Republic of Moldova September 2, 2025 – Vienna Insurance Group (VIG) has won the public auction for the acquisition of an 80% stake in Moldasig S.A. Through this transaction, VIG becomes the market leader in the Republic of Moldova, with an estimated market share of around 30%.

In May 2025, VIG announced its intention to acquire Moldasig, one of the country's leading non-life insurers. This has now been formally implemented through the signing of a Share Purchase Agreement with the Moldovan state. The transfer of 80% of Moldasig shares is expected to be completed in the coming days, subject to customary closing conditions, including notification to the Moldovan competition authority.

Commenting on the transaction, Peter Höfinger, Deputy CEO of VIG and Management Board Member responsible for Moldova, stated:

 “This acquisition shows our long-term commitment to the Republic of Moldova. Our strategic objective is to contribute to the better service of the Moldovan economy and its citizens by further strengthening the insurance sector. We have confidence in Moldova's European integration trajectory and intend to apply our international expertise to enhance stability and risk protection. We would like to specifically acknowledge the transparent and professional organization of the process by the authorities of the Republic of Moldova and express our gratitude for their trust in VIG as a long-term partner.”

Moldasig – a Key Player in the Local Market

Founded in 2002, Moldasig is one of Moldova's leading non-life insurance companies, with an estimated market share of around 14%. The company offers a comprehensive range of products for both individuals and businesses, including motor, home, and health insurance. Moldasig operates a nationwide network of more than 100 offices, providing accessible services across the country.

Moldasig demonstrates strong financial performance with total assets of 625.9 million MDL and net assets of 290.1 million MDL. The company maintains robust technical insurance reserves of 293.1 million MDL, while its total liabilities stand at 335.9 million MDL. With a liquidity coefficient of 3.54 and a solvency ratio of 218.5%, Moldasig is well positioned to support sustained growth and policyholder protection.

This strategic acquisition pairs VIG's regional scale with Moldasig's solid balance sheet and nationwide reach, reinforcing service quality and stability for policyholders across Moldova.

Austria – a Trusted Economic Partner

Austria ranks among the most important foreign investors in the Republic of Moldova, currently the 10th largest overall (9th by equity). More than 90 enterprises with Austrian capital operate locally, while Austrian foreign direct investment amounts to approximately USD 175 million. Interest from Austrian investors has strengthened particularly since 2017, with a peak in 2021—context in which the VIG–Moldasig transaction further consolidates Austria's economic footprint and Moldova's attractiveness as a transparent, investable market.

This acquisition by VIG further strengthens Austria's position in Moldova and highlights the country's growing attractiveness as a secure and transparent investment destination.

VIG in Moldova and Beyond

VIG has been present in Moldova since 2014, following the acquisition of the insurance company Donaris, which currently serves over 120,000 customers nationwide.

At the regional level, VIG is the leading insurance group in Central and Eastern Europe, with over 50 insurance companies and pension funds in 30 countries, serving 33 million customers. Around 30,000 employees ensure daily operations, while VIG maintains an A+ rating with stable outlook from Standard & Poor's. The Group's shares are listed on the Vienna, Prague, and Budapest Stock Exchanges, and it cooperates closely with Erste Group, the largest retail bank in Central and Eastern Europe.

Invest Moldova Agency continues to identify and support potential investors ready to expand their business into the Republic of Moldova, offering end-to-end assistance—from opportunity assessment and regulatory navigation to project implementation and aftercare.

Posted on

Pacific – History made as stateless person granted Nauruan citizenship under innovative new program

Source: Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program

A stateless person has become a Nauruan citizen under an innovative citizenship program that helps fund economic and climate resilience.

The Kuwaiti national’s citizenship granted through Nauru’s Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program highlights the advantages the scheme offers to countless other stateless people around the world.

The program’s offering includes a politically neutral alternative passport for an applicant and their family, along with the chance to contribute to climate crisis solutions in the South Pacific.

CEO Edward Clark said the Kuwaiti national was granted citizenship following an in-depth due diligence process involving financial intelligence units, police, and third-party checks.

He said there was a common misconception that all who are stateless have no documentation or had done something wrong but this was not correct.

“We would not approve someone unless we could verify who they are, their history and other required information, and this person was able to demonstrate his eligibility with strong documentary proof, despite his status.

“He is a highly successful and motivated individual, who through no fault of his own is stateless,” he said.

Mr Clark said there are many individuals worldwide who encounter comparable challenges in that their statelessness is due to circumstances beyond their control, and “many of them would be ideally suited for our program.”

“While many people who apply for citizenship through the program may be seeking a second passport that can provide a valuable safety net in times of global instability, for stateless people it can provide mobility and security they’ve never before experienced.”

The Institute on Statelessness and Inclusion has estimated there are at least 15 million stateless people globally.

According to Aleksejs Ivashuk, the founder of advocacy group Apatride Network, migration by investment programs “will benefit the stateless individuals who can open more realistic pathways out of statelessness…(and) benefit the host countries that run these programmes.”

Mr Ivashuk added that programs offering a pathway to citizenship for stateless people “means freedom to have education, employment, political rights, healthcare, freedom of movement, and many other basic human rights.”

The Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program welcomed its first new citizens in early August, with many more now approved or under review.

Posted on

Universities – SMART Researchers Develop First-of-Its-Kind RNA Tool to Advance Cancer and Infectious Disease Research and Treatment

Source: Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)

  • First automated tool that quickly analyses RNA changes across thousands of biological samples
  • Scientists can now better understand how cells adapt to stress, infections or diseases by studying tiny chemical changes in RNA – a molecule that carries genetic instructions from DNA and regulates how genes respond to challenges
  • This will help the healthcare and biomedical industry better identify disease markers, and develop targeted therapies and personalised treatment for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections.

Singapore, 03 September 2025 – Researchers at the Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) interdisciplinary research group of the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART), Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) research enterprise in Singapore, have developed a powerful tool capable of scanning thousands of biological samples to detect transfer ribonucleic acid (tRNA) modifications — tiny chemical changes to RNA molecules that help control how cells grow, adapt to stress and respond to diseases such as cancer and antibiotic‑resistant infections. This tool opens up new possibilities for science, healthcare and industry — from accelerating disease research and enabling more precise diagnostics, to guiding the development of more effective medical treatments for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections.

The research was led by SMART AMR, in collaboration with Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore), University of Florida, University at Albany, Lodz University of Technology and MIT.

Addressing current limitations in RNA modification profiling

Cancer and infectious diseases are complicated health conditions in which cells are forced to function abnormally by mutations in their genetic material or by instructions from an invading microorganism. The SMART-led research team is among the world’s leaders in understanding how the epitranscriptome – the over 170 different chemical modifications of all forms of RNA – controls growth of normal cells and how cells respond to stressful changes in the environment, such as loss of nutrients or exposure to toxic chemicals. The researchers are also studying how this system is corrupted in cancer or exploited by viruses, bacteria and parasites in infectious diseases.
Current molecular methods used to study the expansive epitranscriptome and all of the thousands of different types of modified RNA, are often slow, labour-intensive, costly and involve hazardous chemicals, which limits research capacity and speed.
To solve this problem, the SMART team developed a new tool that enables fast, automated profiling of tRNA modifications — molecular changes that regulate how cells survive, adapt to stress and respond to disease. This capability allows scientists to map cell regulatory networks, discover novel enzymes and link molecular patterns to disease mechanisms, paving the way for better drug discovery and development, and more accurate disease diagnostics.

Unlocking the complexity of RNA modifications

SMART’s research, recently published in Nucleic Acids Research, titled “tRNA modification profiling reveals epitranscriptome regulatory networks in Pseudomonas aeruginosa”, shows that the tool has already enabled the discovery of previously unknown RNA-modifying enzymes and the mapping of complex gene regulatory networks. These networks are crucial for cellular adaptation to stress and disease, providing important insights into how RNA modifications control bacterial survival mechanisms.

Using robotic liquid handlers, researchers extracted tRNA from more than 5,700 genetically modified strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium that causes infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, bloodstream infections and wound infections. Samples were enzymatically digested and analysed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), a technique that separates molecules based on their physical properties and identifies them with high precision and sensitivity.

As part of the study, the process generated over 200,000 data points in a high-resolution approach that revealed new tRNA-modifying enzymes and simplified gene networks controlling how cells respond and adapt to stress. For example, the data revealed that the methylthiotransferase MiaB, one of the enzymes responsible for tRNA modification ms2i6A, was found to be sensitive to the availability of iron and sulfur and to metabolic changes when oxygen is low. Discoveries like this highlight how cells respond to environmental stresses, and could lead to future development of therapies or diagnostics.

SMART’s automated system was specially designed to profile tRNA modifications across thousands of samples rapidly and safely. Unlike traditional methods — which are costly, labour-intensive and use toxic solvents such as phenol and chloroform — this tool integrates robotics to automate sample preparation and analysis, eliminating the need for hazardous chemical handling and reducing costs. This advancement increases safety, throughput and affordability, enabling routine large-scale use in research and clinical labs.

A faster and automated way to study RNA

As the first system capable of quantitative, system‑wide profiling of tRNA modifications at this scale, the tool provides a unique and comprehensive view of the epitranscriptome — the complete set of RNA chemical modifications within cells. This capability allows researchers to validate hypotheses about RNA modifications, uncover novel biology and identify promising molecular targets for developing new therapies.

“This pioneering tool marks a transformative advance in decoding the complex language of RNA modifications that regulate cellular responses. Leveraging AMR’s expertise in mass spectrometry and RNA epitranscriptomics, our research uncovers new methods to detect complex gene networks critical for understanding and treating cancer as well as antibiotic-resistant infections. By enabling rapid, large-scale analysis, the tool accelerates both fundamental scientific discovery and the development of targeted diagnostics and therapies that will address urgent global health challenges,” said Prof Peter Dedon, Co-lead Principal Investigator (PI) at SMART AMR, Professor of Biological Engineering at MIT and corresponding author of the paper.

Accelerating research, industry and healthcare applications

This versatile tool has broad applications across scientific research, industry and healthcare. It enables large-scale studies of gene regulation, RNA biology and cellular responses to environmental and therapeutic challenges. The pharmaceutical and biotech industry can harness it for drug discovery and biomarker screening, efficiently evaluating how potential drugs affect RNA modifications and cellular behaviour. This aids the development of targeted therapies and personalised medical treatments.

“This is the first tool that can rapidly and quantitatively profile RNA modifications across thousands of samples. It has not only allowed us to discover new RNA-modifying enzymes and gene networks, but also opens the door to identifying biomarkers and therapeutic targets for diseases such as cancer and antibiotic-resistant infections. For the first time, large-scale epitranscriptomic analysis is practical and accessible,” said Dr Jingjing Sun, Research Scientist at SMART AMR and first author of the paper.

Looking ahead: advancing clinical and pharmaceutical applications
Moving forward, SMART AMR plans to expand the tool’s capabilities to analyse RNA modifications in human cells and tissues, moving beyond microbial models to deepen understanding of disease mechanisms in humans. Future efforts will focus on integrating the platform into clinical research to accelerate the discovery of biomarkers and therapeutic targets. The translation of the technology into an epitranscriptome-wide analysis tool that can be used in pharmaceutical and healthcare settings, will drive the development of more effective and personalised treatments.

The research conducted at SMART is supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) Singapore under its Campus for Research Excellence and Technological Enterprise (CREATE) programme.

Posted on

Indonesia: Authorities must investigate eight deaths following violent crackdown on protests – Amnesty International

Source: Amnesty International

Responding to the Indonesian government’s announcement that at least eight people have been killed since nationwide protests against low wages, tax hikes and lawmakers’ pay started on 25 August, Amnesty International’s Regional Research Director, Montse Ferrer, said:

“The increasing number of deaths from the crackdown on protests in Jakarta and other regions in Indonesia is alarming. Nobody should die while exercising their right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.  

“Authorities in Indonesia must promptly ensure an independent and impartial investigation into these deaths and violent incidents, including the killing of a motorcycle taxi driver after an armoured police vehicle was recklessly driven in a crowded area. Authorities must ensure those responsible for these deaths are identified and held to account in fair trials.

“Despite the largely peaceful nature of the protests, the police in several cities in Indonesia, including Jakarta, repeatedly resorted to unnecessary and excessive force, including by inappropriately and excessively using tear gas to quash the demonstrations.

“It is deplorable that the National Police chief instructed police officers to use rubber bullets against protesters who had entered the compound of the Jakarta Police’s Mobile Brigade headquarters. These weapons should only be deployed in exceptional circumstances, such as situations of violent disorder posing an imminent threat of considerable harm to others. Moreover, they should only be used by appropriately trained officers and must not be fired randomly at the crowd but must be aimed exclusively at persons who are engaged in violence against persons, and only when other means have failed to stop the violence.

“Further, the Indonesian government must not use isolated incidents of violence by some protesters as an excuse to further repress peaceful demonstrations. Instead of a brutal clampdown, authorities should respect, facilitate and protect the rights of people to  assemble peacefully and freely express their opinions.”

Background

Indonesia’s biggest protests in years started on 25 August 2025, sparking a violent crackdown across the country.

In Jakarta, a motorcycle taxi driver was killed after being run over by an armoured police vehicle recklessly driven near crowds in Jakarta on Thursday 28 August. Seven police officers are being investigated. A day later three public employees and one member of the Civil Service Police Unit in the city of Makassar, South Sulawesi province, were killed after unknown people set fire to a local parliament building following clashes with police. On Friday 29 August, a motorcycle taxi driver was killed by crowds in Makassar who accused him of being a police intelligence agent.

In the city of Solo, Central Java province, a pedicab driver died allegedly due to exposure to tear gas fired by police when confronting protesters on Friday 29 August.  

In the city of Yogyakarta, Yogyakarta province, a student died after allegedly being beaten by police who were also firing tear gas at protesters near police headquarters on Sunday 30 August.

Posted on

World Solar Challenge 2025: 11th Place for ETH Zurich Students and Gebrüder Weiss

Source: Gebrüder Weiss

aCentauri Solar Racing Team completes the 3,000-kilometer race across Australia under challenging conditions / Logistics partner Gebrüder Weiss ensures smooth operations off the track

Adelaide / Lauterach, August 29, 2025. ETH Zurich's aCentauri Solar Racing Team finished the World Solar Challenge in Australia in 11th place out of a total of 28 teams in the “Challenger” class. The students covered the approximately 3,000-kilometre route from Darwin to Adelaide in six days, facing consistently challenging weather and road conditions during the Australian winter. Once again, Gebrüder Weiss served as the team's official logistics partner.

“Placing 11th shows how well the team handled the challenges of this year's race – a great achievement,” says Tracy van Arend, Branch Manager Gebrüder Weiss Adelaide. She welcomed the ETH team at the finish line together with Sharon Young, Customer Service and Process Manager at Gebrüder Weiss Australia. “It was exciting to follow the race and cheer for the team. While we as the logistics partner don't directly influence the competition itself, we make sure that the vehicle arrives in Australia on time, giving the students sufficient opportunity to train and prepare. We were able to deliver that again this year,” adds Sharon Young.

Following the race, Gebrüder Weiss will also handle the return transport of the solar car and its equipment back to Europe. The customized logistics solution includes sea freight, comprehensive customs clearance, and final delivery of the solar vehicle by truck to Technopark Zurich.

Challenging Conditions in the Australian Winter

For the first time, the race was held during the Australian winter. The students had to adapt to cooler temperatures and different light conditions. This required an adjusted race strategy, particularly with respect to energy management and daily planning. On the third day of the race, the team also faced a technical issue: the cruise control failed, and a gust of wind tore off part of the left wheel cover. Both problems were quickly repaired, and the vehicle was back on the road shortly afterward.  

“This year's circumstances pushed us but also showed how resilient our team and vehicle are,” says Clara Nörenberg, Team Manager at aCentauri. “We modified our strategy and proved that solar mobility can perform reliably even under difficult circumstances.”

Looking ahead, the aCentauri Solar Racing Team is already preparing for the next World Solar Challenge in two years. Their goal: to return with an optimized vehicle and secure a spot among the top ten.

Further background on this and other Gebrüder Weiss projects related to the “Future of Mobility” can be found at: https://www.gw-world.com/company/sustainability/future-of-mobility, or via the logistics company's social media channels.

About Gebrüder Weiss

Gebrüder Weiss Holding AG, based in Lauterach, Austria, is a globally operative full-service logistics provider with about 8,600 employees at 180 company-owned locations. The company generated revenues of 2.71 billion euros in 2024. Its portfolio encompasses transport and logistics solutions, digital services, and supply chain management. 

The twin strengths of digital and physical competence enable Gebrüder Weiss to respond swiftly and flexibly to customers' needs. The family-run organization – with a history going back more than half a millennium – has implemented a wide variety of environmental, economic, and social initiatives. Today, it is also considered a pioneer in sustainable business practices. www.gw-world.com

Posted on

Moldova Business Week 2025: 10 Years of Partnerships, Over 30 Events, and Delegates from More Than 25 Countries

Source: Invest Moldova Agency

Chisinau, Republic of Moldova, August 29, 2025 – Only a few days remain until the most important economic forum of the Republic of Moldova – Moldova Business Week 2025, organized by Invest Moldova Agency. 

From September 15-19, in Chișinău and across several regions of the country, the anniversary edition will bring together delegates from over 20 countries across three continents, business representatives, investors, government officials, and international organizations. With a program of more than 30 events, MBW25 promises to become the largest edition to date.

Under the concept “Moldova is Open for Business”, the event will take place both in the capital and in regions such as Orhei, Chișinău, Călărași, Cahul, Giurgiulești, Bălți, Strășeni, Ungheni, Comrat, and Tiraspol.

This year's edition focuses on four strategic directions that define Moldova's economic model:

  • State Aid Scheme for industrialization – a competitive tool offering up to 60% support for investments in six strategic sectors;
  • Moldova IT Park – a unique model in the region, with a 7% tax regime guaranteed by law until 2035;
  • Investments in infrastructure and renewable energy – aimed at strengthening energy independence, European integration, and the transition to green energy;
  • Positioning Moldova as a regional logistics hub – a key role in Ukraine's reconstruction through infrastructure, logistics, and construction materials production.

Event Agenda:

Day 1 – September 15
 

Official Opening Ceremony. The opening event will highlight the country's progress in building a transparent, resilient, and investor-friendly economy. Participants will also hear a presentation from S&P Global experts on Moldova's positioning in the international economy, while successful companies such as PorcoBello, Bardar, Smile Dent, and Bolt will share experiences and best practices. 

A highlight of the day will be the announcement of the launch of the Moldova Stock Exchange, marking a new era for the capital market and access to financing. Keynote speeches will be delivered by Dorin Recean, Prime Minister of the Republic of Moldova; Doina Nistor, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization; and Natalia Bejan, General Director of Invest Moldova Agency.
Panel: “The Republic of Moldova – an Emerging Economy in the Region”
Presentation of the State Aid Scheme for Industrialization
Moldova Investment Map – premiere launch of the digital platform showcasing attractive investment locations and strategic projects in the country.
 

Day 2 – September 16

Conference: “Digitalization of the Economy and the Future of IT in Moldova”
Real Estate Forum – dedicated to Moldova's real estate sector, bringing together public authorities, development partners, foreign investors, and private sector representatives.

Creative Capital for Growth and Investment – COR (the Association of Creative Companies) presents case studies, member projects, and creative community initiatives with innovation and export potential at Artcor.
Study visit to Călărași – visits to two benchmark fruit producers: Codru ST and PDG Fruct.
B2B meetings for IT and business services at Moldova IT Park.
 

Day 3 – September 17

Panel: “Investments in Infrastructure and Renewable Energy”
International Forum: Development and Market Access for Moldovan SMEs – dedicated to internationalization and innovation opportunities for SMEs through the Enterprise Europe Network.

MITP MeetUP
Startup Corporate Demo Day – Moldova Business Week
Major project presentations and site visits.
Study visit to Giurgiulești Port – including a visit to Trans-Oil Group headquarters, one of Moldova's largest agro-industrial exporters operating within the port.

Day 4 – September 18

ecomm360: Practical Solutions for Online Business
Moldova as a Strategic Partner in Ukraine's Reconstruction – a panel with business representatives, international organizations, and local administrations to explore practical solutions and partnerships.

Investor Talk – informal session where 3–4 investors will share experiences in Moldova's economy: challenges, success stories, and market insights.
Embedded Moldova Conference – 2nd edition
Thematic visits to industrial zones and business parks in Orhei and Cahul
Meetings with local authorities and regional partners.

Day 5 – September 19, Chișinău

Final Panel: “The Republic of Moldova – Regional Logistics Hub and Cooperation Platform”
HealthTech Forum 2025 – focusing on integrated digital health and serving as a launch platform for a healthier, more digital Moldova open to investment and regional partnerships.

Power UP – Moldova Energy Forum – showcasing Moldova's progress in the energy sector in 2025 and outlining priorities for 2026.
Investment Fund in Moldova: Unlocking Capital for Growth
The Republic of Moldova: Export Offer and Exporters' Requirements – presenting, for the first time, the results of a survey highlighting exporters' needs, alongside success stories from investors and exporters.

The forum will emphasize investments in infrastructure and renewable energy, vital for strengthening energy independence, direct integration with the European Union, and accelerating the transition to green energy.

Moldova is developing projects in infrastructure, transport, logistics, and construction materials production.
These initiatives support not only the local economy but also regional connectivity, offering investors opportunities to participate in a process with major regional impact.
At Moldova Business Week 2025, concrete projects and cooperation programs will be presented to transform Moldova into a key logistics platform for Eastern Europe.
Posted on

US Security – EXPANDING NATIONAL GUARD POLICING POWERS THREATENS U.S. DEMOCRACY AND SECURITY

Source: National Security Leaders for America (NSL4A)

August 27, 2025 – Washington, DC, August 27, 2025, National Security Leaders for America (NSL4A), a bipartisan coalition of retired senior military officers, ambassadors, and national security officials, today announced its opposition to  President Trump’s new Executive Order granting the National Guard sweeping authority to perform domestic law enforcement duties,  calling them “ineffective, wasteful, and dangerous.”

This action represents a perilous escalation in the politicization of America’s armed forces. For over two centuries, the United States has maintained a distinct separation between civilian policing and the military. By directing the Guard to assume routine law enforcement responsibilities, the administration is eroding one of the bedrock principles of our democracy: that military power must never be used as a tool of domestic control.

“The President’s order blurs critical boundaries, forces Guardsmen and women into missions they are not trained for, and weakens public trust in the Guard.,said NSL4A member and former Acting Vice Chief of the National Guard Bureau, retired Major General Randy Manner. “This is not only a misuse of our men and women in uniform, it is a direct threat to the constitutional framework that protects Americans’ freedoms.”

NSL4A emphasized that the Guard is already stretched thin with overseas deployments, disaster response, and homeland defense missions. Using it for day-to-day policing will degrade readiness for true crises while wasting taxpayer dollars on politically motivated deployments that are unlikely to curb violent crime.  The order disregards long-standing legal safeguards, including the spirit of the Posse Comitatus Act, which was designed to prevent military involvement in civilian law enforcement.

NSL4A calls on Congress, governors, and the Administration to act immediately to halt the misuse of the National Guard as a domestic police force. Any deployment must remain strictly within the bounds of U.S. law, including the constraints of the Posse Comitatus Act, which has safeguarded Americans from military involvement in civilian affairs for nearly 150 years. Absent a credible, data-driven threat assessment and statutory authorization, such use of the Guard is illegitimate and dangerous.

“The President’s authority to activate the Guard in extraordinary circumstances is not a blank check to cash in for political whims,” said NSL4A member, former Illinois Congressman, and former Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard, retired Major General Bill Enyart. “Any deployment of the Guard must be justified, time-limited, coordinated with local leadership, and subject to rigorous congressional oversight. Anything less risks turning America’s military into a domestic political weapon. Our democracy and the safety of our communities depend on it.”

Posted on

OPEC Fund supports strategic rail corridor to boost connectivity and international trade in Türkiye

Source: OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund)

28 August 2025 – The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is committing €150 million to support the development of a high-standard electrified railway in eastern Türkiye.

August 25, 2025: The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is committing €150 million to support the development of a high-standard electrified railway in eastern Türkiye. The Kars-Iğdır-Aralık-Dilucu (KIAD) Railway Project will enhance transport connectivity, reduce travel time and increase cross-border trade across the Trans-Caspian East-West Middle Corridor, linking Europe and Asia via Türkiye.

OPEC Fund President Abdulhamid Alkhalifa said: “Efficient, sustainable infrastructure is key to expanding opportunity and building regional resilience. Our support for this project will improve freight logistics, open new economic pathways and strengthen Türkiye’s role as a critical bridge between continents.”
The KIAD Railway Project comprises the construction of a 224km electrified double-track, high-speed railway with modern signaling and safety systems, connecting Türkiye’s eastern provinces of Kars and Iğdır with the Dilucu border crossing with Azerbaijan. The line is strategically located along the Middle Corridor, a priority trade route linking China and Europe and designed to reduce cargo travel time from 18 to 12 days in comparison with existing routes. Once completed, the new link is expected to carry around 2 million tonnes of freight and 650,000 passengers annually.
The new railway will include electrified double tracks, modern signaling and safety systems, and design speeds of up to 160 km/h for passenger and freight trains—offering a faster, more reliable and sustainable alternative to road transport. The project will address key infrastructure gaps in eastern Türkiye and is expected to lower transport costs, alleviate congestion and shift freight from road to rail, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The new link will also boost accessibility to remote communities and create thousands of jobs during the construction and operation of the railway line.
The OPEC Fund’s contribution complements a co-financing package led by the Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) with support from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), the Swedish Export Credit Agency (EKN), the Oesterreichische Kontrollbank (OeKB) and the Government of Türkiye. The total project value is estimated at €2.7 billion.
The KIAD project is aligned with Türkiye’s Transport and Logistics Master Plan 2053, which aims to increase the share of rail freight, lower emissions and enhance the country’s competitiveness as a regional logistics hub. It also concurs with the OPEC Fund’s strategic priorities of advancing sustainable infrastructure, regional integration and climate action.
About the OPEC Fund: The OPEC Fund for International Development (the OPEC Fund) is the only globally mandated development institution that provides financing from member countries to non-member countries exclusively. The organization works in cooperation with developing country partners and the international development community to stimulate economic growth and social progress in low- and middle-income countries around the world. 
The OPEC Fund was established in 1976 with a distinct purpose: to drive development, strengthen communities and empower people. 
Our work is people-centered, focusing on financing projects that meet essential needs, such as food, energy, infrastructure, employment (particularly relating to MSMEs), clean water and sanitation, healthcare and education. 
To date, the OPEC Fund has committed more than US$29 billion to development projects in over 125 countries with an estimated total project cost of more than US$200 billion. 
The OPEC Fund is rated AA+/Outlook Stable by Fitch and S&P Global Ratings. Our vision is a world where sustainable development is a reality for all.