Latest news with #Memorandumof
Hamilton Spectator
a day ago
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
ReconAfrica Provides a Corporate Operational Update
CALGARY, Alberta, July 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. (the 'Company' or 'ReconAfrica') (TSXV: RECO) (OTCQX: RECAF) (Frankfurt: 0XD) (NSX: REC) provides an operational update on the Kavango West 1X exploration prospect and announces the resignation of Iman Hill as a Corporate Director of the Company effective July 31, 2025. Kavango West 1X (Prospect I) – Spud scheduled before end of July The drilling rig has been safely moved on-site and all necessary permits required to spud the well have been received by the Company from the various regulators. Final drill-rig assembly and safety checks are underway and the Kavango West 1X exploration well is scheduled to spud before the end of July. The well is planned to reach total depth (TD) of approximately 3,800 metres (12,500 feet) and is expected to penetrate over 1,500 metres of Otavi carbonate reservoir section, which is the primary target of the Damara Fold Belt play. The Kavango West 1X exploration well will be the second test in the expansive Damara Fold Belt play. The prospect is a large structural fold identified on modern 2D seismic data, which extends over 22 kilometers long by three kilometers wide. The Company has identified over 19 prospects and leads mapped in the Damara Fold Belt trend, with an additional 5.0 million acres captured in a recently executed Memorandum of Understanding in offsetting Angola. Brian Reinsborough, President and CEO of ReconAfrica stated: 'Everyone at the Company has worked diligently to get drill-ready on the Kavango West 1X prospect and we are excited to spud the well in the coming days. We recognize the importance of this play opening well holds for our shareholders, the local communities in which we operate and the broader energy industry in Namibia. We are committed to remaining engaged with local communities and authorities and to ensuring the safe and efficient operation of this well.' Board of Directors Update Iman Hill, who was appointed a Director of ReconAfrica in August 2023, has resigned from the Board of Directors effective July 31, 2025, due to foreign work obligations. Following Iman's resignation, the Board of Directors will consist of five members, three of whom are independent directors. Currently, the Board of Directors intends to remain at five seats. Diana McQueen, Board Chair of ReconAfrica commented: 'We thank Iman for her work and guidance over the past two years and wish her well in her future endeavors. With respect to the Kavango West 1X well, ReconAfrica wishes to thank all community and regulatory stakeholders in Namibia for working with the Company to bring the well to the current drill-ready stage. ReconAfrica remains engaged with its stakeholders and is focused on operations that are safe for all employees and neighbouring communities, as well as wildlife and the environment.' About ReconAfrica ReconAfrica is a Canadian oil and gas company engaged in the exploration of the Damara Fold Belt and Kavango Rift Basin in the Kalahari Desert of northeastern Namibia, southeastern Angola and northwestern Botswana, where the Company holds petroleum licences comprising ~13 million contiguous acres. In all aspects of its operations, ReconAfrica is committed to minimal disturbance of habitat in line with international standards and implementing environmental and social best practices in its project areas. Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. For further information contact: Brian Reinsborough, President and Chief Executive Officer Mark Friesen, Managing Director, Investor Relations & Capital Markets IR Inquiries Email: investors@ Media Inquiries Email: media@ Tel: +1-877-631-1160 Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: Certain statements contained in this press release constitute forward-looking information under applicable Canadian, United States and other applicable securities laws, rules and regulations, including, without limitation, statements with respect to the expected including timing of spud of the Kavango West 1X well, the well being drilled to a planned total depth of approximately 3,800 metres (12,500 feet), timing to reach total depth of the well and the Company's commitment to minimal disturbance of habitat, in line with best international standards and its implementation of environmental and social best practices in its project areas. These statements relate to future events or future performance. The use of any of the words 'could', 'intend', 'expect', 'believe', 'will', 'projected', 'estimated' and similar expressions and statements relating to matters that are not historical facts are intended to identify forward-looking information and are based on ReconAfrica's current belief or assumptions as to the outcome and timing of such future events. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as the Company's actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the factors discussed in the 'Risk Factors' section in the Company's annual information form ('AIF') dated April 29, 2025 for the financial period ended December 31, 2024, available under the Company's profile at . Actual future results may differ materially. Various assumptions or factors are typically applied in drawing conclusions or making the forecasts or projections set out in forward-looking information. Those assumptions and factors are based on information currently available to ReconAfrica. The forward-looking information contained in this release is made as of the date hereof and ReconAfrica undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The foregoing statements expressly qualify any forward-looking information contained herein.
Engadget
2 days ago
- Business
- Engadget
OpenAI is getting closer with the UK government
The UK government has announced a new strategic partnership with OpenAI that could lead the company to "expand AI security research collaborations, explore investing in UK AI infrastructure like data centers, and find new ways for taxpayer funded services" to use AI. The move follows the introduction of the AI Action Plan in January, which fast-tracks the construction of data centers in certain regions of the UK. In the (entirely voluntary) partnership agreement — technically a Memorandum of Understanding — OpenAI and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) agree to tackle positive-sounding, but ultimately vague tasks things like finding ways for "advanced AI models" to be used in both the public and private sectors and sharing information around the security risks of AI. OpenAI is also supposed to help DSIT identify ways it can deliver on the infrastructure goals of the AI Action Plan, and possibly explore building in one of the UK's new data center-friendly "AI Growth Zones." All of this sounds nebulous and non-committal because the memorandum OpenAI signed is not at all legally-binding. The partnership sounds nice for elected officials eager to prove the UK is competing in AI, but it doesn't tie anyone down, including the UK government: If Anthropic offers a deal on Claude, they can take it. OpenAI already has offices in London, so deepening its investment doesn't seem out of the question. Signing the memorandum is also consistent with OpenAI's growing interest in working with governments desperate for the high-tech gloss of the AI industry. The logic follows that if OpenAI can get regulators dependent on its tools — say, a ChatGPT Gov specifically designed for government agencies — they'll be more inclined to favor the company in policy decisions. Or at the very least, making a show of collaborating early could win the company a sweeter deal down the road.
Borneo Post
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Borneo Post
TV5 offers prime time slot for Sabah-made films
Yoko (centre) with Chester Pang and SAFVA delegation members. KOTA KINABALU (July 19): Enjoy TV5 is offering a dedicated prime time slot for Sabah producers to showcase their films and completed works on the channel. The offer was extended by Datin Yoko Chou, chairperson of TV5 Broadcasting Sdn Bhd, during a courtesy visit by the Sabah Film and Visual Association (SAFVA) led by its President, Chester Pang, at CoPlace 10, Cyberjaya. During the meeting, discussions covered key issues such as benefits for content providers, intellectual property (IP) ownership, and the overall broadcast structure. 'One of the matters still under discussion is the one-year broadcast rights ownership by TV5 and the number of airings permitted per content,' said Chester. 'In principle, we have agreed on an advertising revenue-sharing payment model, but we will first seek feedback from producers before moving forward,' he added. TV5, officially launched on May 5 by Communications Minister Datuk Ahmad Fahmi Mohamed Fadzil, is Malaysia's new multicultural Movie Channel TV5, available for free on Digital Channel 105. The channel is committed to airing high-quality, multilingual productions and aims to bridge local and international creative content. A follow-up meeting is scheduled to take place in Kota Kinabalu before a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is formalised. Also present during the visit were Jade Morris, SAFVA Secretary-General; Gregory Giting, Exco member; and Nadira Ilana, Head of SAFVA's Culture and Heritage Bureau.
The Advertiser
5 days ago
- Business
- The Advertiser
What Albanese's visit reveals about China relations in a turbulent world
The Albanese government has faced an increasingly uncertain world since its re-election in May. US President Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australia-US alliance, raising fresh questions about Canberra's long-term regional strategy. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's approach to foreign policy is reflecting a careful recalibration - one that seeks to balance security partnerships with the pursuit of economic opportunities, especially with Australia's largest trading partner, China. Albanese has wrapped up a six-day visit to China which was characterised by a highly pragmatic approach to dealing with the problems and irritants in the bilateral relationship. Albanese's visit to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu - cities emblematic of Australia's political, economic and cultural connections with China - was more than symbolic. It was a high-profile diplomatic venture, with Albanese meeting both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. But it was more than a leaders' summit. A large team of key business leaders in banking, manufacturing, mining and education were on the trip to meet their Chinese counterparts and seek more cooperation. Economic engagement dominated the visit. As Albanese highlighted before his trip, "my priority is jobs". Broader partnerships spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and green energy, were canvassed. The two nations also explored closer cooperation on energy transition and climate change. Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has even floated a collaboration on artificial intelligence. However, the suggestion has been met with caution in Canberra due to ongoing concerns around national security and data governance. Beyond trade and investment, the visit also marked an effort to rebuild people-to-people exchanges. Since last year, Australian citizens have been able to visit China for up to 30 days without a visa. In turn, Australia will welcome more Chinese visitors under a new Memorandum of Understanding promoting Australia as a premier tourist destination for Chinese travellers. Albanese's meetings with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang also yielded concrete results. The official joint statement emphasised economic cooperation, particularly in climate-related areas such as steel decarbonisation, dryland farming and the green economy. These outcomes align with the Albanese government's guiding principle: cooperate where we can. The deeper economic cooperation has been noted in China, where there is an expectation collaboration will continue to accelerate on the back of improved relations. As James Laurenceson of the Australia-China Relations Institute recently noted, a stronger economic partnership will help foster more resilient ties across the board. Other analysts also see increased mutual benefits in the bilateral relationship. China-watcher James Curran suggests the visit may signal a maturing, more independent Australian foreign policy. The primary role of Australian statecraft is to do everything we possibly can to avoid a conflict. To avoid ever getting close to a decision about following the Americans into a war of that kind. This was best illustrated by Albanese's refusal to provide Washington with a wide-ranging and largely open-ended commitment to support the US in any conflict with China over Taiwan. Indeed, as Curran observes, Albanese has tried to steer the relationship away from disagreement and towards pragmatic engagement. Following his meeting with Xi, Albanese was repeatedly asked by Australian journalists if he raised sensitive issues such as Taiwan, China's military build-up and the South China Sea. While he confirmed these topics were addressed, he emphasised a preference for peaceful engagement: [...] we want peace and security in the region. That is in the interest of both Australia and in the interest of China. Unsurprisingly, the joint statement made no reference to these issues, reflecting a mutual decision to sidestep confrontation in favour of stabilising the relationship. This diplomatic posture toward China would appear to be a defining feature of the Albanese government's second term: strengthening cooperation while quietly managing differences. Rather than highlighting points of contention, the government is opting to avoid open disagreement where possible. Overt disputes risk destabilising bilateral ties. If issues are raised publicly, it is unlikely to shift entrenched positions on either side. This explains why the ownership of the Port of Darwin, for example, was not mentioned during Albanese's meeting with Xi. Critics, however, argue this risks projecting weakness towards China. Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warns the government is staying silent in the face of ongoing Chinese coercion: Australia is only complying with China's desires when the government says nothing and leaves the public to trust that the threats posed by China are all being dealt with in the classified realm. This is not viable policy. Australia's sovereignty must not be contingent on Beijing's preferences. Even within China, analysts are cautious about Albanese's approach. As one Chinese scholar told us, "a stable relationship does not necessarily mean a friendly one". In fact, while the Chinese media has stressed Australia and China's shared commitment to regional stability, this was barely mentioned in the official joint statement. Still, there is recognition on both sides that pragmatism rather than ideological grandstanding is the more sustainable path forward. In sum, Albanese's visit does not mark a dramatic reset or bold new direction in Australia-China relations. Rather, it signals a shift toward greater realism. In an increasingly complex and multipolar world, diplomacy grounded in mutual interests, rather than ideology, is not just practical, but may be a growing trend across the globe. The Albanese government has faced an increasingly uncertain world since its re-election in May. US President Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australia-US alliance, raising fresh questions about Canberra's long-term regional strategy. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's approach to foreign policy is reflecting a careful recalibration - one that seeks to balance security partnerships with the pursuit of economic opportunities, especially with Australia's largest trading partner, China. Albanese has wrapped up a six-day visit to China which was characterised by a highly pragmatic approach to dealing with the problems and irritants in the bilateral relationship. Albanese's visit to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu - cities emblematic of Australia's political, economic and cultural connections with China - was more than symbolic. It was a high-profile diplomatic venture, with Albanese meeting both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. But it was more than a leaders' summit. A large team of key business leaders in banking, manufacturing, mining and education were on the trip to meet their Chinese counterparts and seek more cooperation. Economic engagement dominated the visit. As Albanese highlighted before his trip, "my priority is jobs". Broader partnerships spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and green energy, were canvassed. The two nations also explored closer cooperation on energy transition and climate change. Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has even floated a collaboration on artificial intelligence. However, the suggestion has been met with caution in Canberra due to ongoing concerns around national security and data governance. Beyond trade and investment, the visit also marked an effort to rebuild people-to-people exchanges. Since last year, Australian citizens have been able to visit China for up to 30 days without a visa. In turn, Australia will welcome more Chinese visitors under a new Memorandum of Understanding promoting Australia as a premier tourist destination for Chinese travellers. Albanese's meetings with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang also yielded concrete results. The official joint statement emphasised economic cooperation, particularly in climate-related areas such as steel decarbonisation, dryland farming and the green economy. These outcomes align with the Albanese government's guiding principle: cooperate where we can. The deeper economic cooperation has been noted in China, where there is an expectation collaboration will continue to accelerate on the back of improved relations. As James Laurenceson of the Australia-China Relations Institute recently noted, a stronger economic partnership will help foster more resilient ties across the board. Other analysts also see increased mutual benefits in the bilateral relationship. China-watcher James Curran suggests the visit may signal a maturing, more independent Australian foreign policy. The primary role of Australian statecraft is to do everything we possibly can to avoid a conflict. To avoid ever getting close to a decision about following the Americans into a war of that kind. This was best illustrated by Albanese's refusal to provide Washington with a wide-ranging and largely open-ended commitment to support the US in any conflict with China over Taiwan. Indeed, as Curran observes, Albanese has tried to steer the relationship away from disagreement and towards pragmatic engagement. Following his meeting with Xi, Albanese was repeatedly asked by Australian journalists if he raised sensitive issues such as Taiwan, China's military build-up and the South China Sea. While he confirmed these topics were addressed, he emphasised a preference for peaceful engagement: [...] we want peace and security in the region. That is in the interest of both Australia and in the interest of China. Unsurprisingly, the joint statement made no reference to these issues, reflecting a mutual decision to sidestep confrontation in favour of stabilising the relationship. This diplomatic posture toward China would appear to be a defining feature of the Albanese government's second term: strengthening cooperation while quietly managing differences. Rather than highlighting points of contention, the government is opting to avoid open disagreement where possible. Overt disputes risk destabilising bilateral ties. If issues are raised publicly, it is unlikely to shift entrenched positions on either side. This explains why the ownership of the Port of Darwin, for example, was not mentioned during Albanese's meeting with Xi. Critics, however, argue this risks projecting weakness towards China. Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warns the government is staying silent in the face of ongoing Chinese coercion: Australia is only complying with China's desires when the government says nothing and leaves the public to trust that the threats posed by China are all being dealt with in the classified realm. This is not viable policy. Australia's sovereignty must not be contingent on Beijing's preferences. Even within China, analysts are cautious about Albanese's approach. As one Chinese scholar told us, "a stable relationship does not necessarily mean a friendly one". In fact, while the Chinese media has stressed Australia and China's shared commitment to regional stability, this was barely mentioned in the official joint statement. Still, there is recognition on both sides that pragmatism rather than ideological grandstanding is the more sustainable path forward. In sum, Albanese's visit does not mark a dramatic reset or bold new direction in Australia-China relations. Rather, it signals a shift toward greater realism. In an increasingly complex and multipolar world, diplomacy grounded in mutual interests, rather than ideology, is not just practical, but may be a growing trend across the globe. The Albanese government has faced an increasingly uncertain world since its re-election in May. US President Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australia-US alliance, raising fresh questions about Canberra's long-term regional strategy. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's approach to foreign policy is reflecting a careful recalibration - one that seeks to balance security partnerships with the pursuit of economic opportunities, especially with Australia's largest trading partner, China. Albanese has wrapped up a six-day visit to China which was characterised by a highly pragmatic approach to dealing with the problems and irritants in the bilateral relationship. Albanese's visit to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu - cities emblematic of Australia's political, economic and cultural connections with China - was more than symbolic. It was a high-profile diplomatic venture, with Albanese meeting both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. But it was more than a leaders' summit. A large team of key business leaders in banking, manufacturing, mining and education were on the trip to meet their Chinese counterparts and seek more cooperation. Economic engagement dominated the visit. As Albanese highlighted before his trip, "my priority is jobs". Broader partnerships spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and green energy, were canvassed. The two nations also explored closer cooperation on energy transition and climate change. Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has even floated a collaboration on artificial intelligence. However, the suggestion has been met with caution in Canberra due to ongoing concerns around national security and data governance. Beyond trade and investment, the visit also marked an effort to rebuild people-to-people exchanges. Since last year, Australian citizens have been able to visit China for up to 30 days without a visa. In turn, Australia will welcome more Chinese visitors under a new Memorandum of Understanding promoting Australia as a premier tourist destination for Chinese travellers. Albanese's meetings with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang also yielded concrete results. The official joint statement emphasised economic cooperation, particularly in climate-related areas such as steel decarbonisation, dryland farming and the green economy. These outcomes align with the Albanese government's guiding principle: cooperate where we can. The deeper economic cooperation has been noted in China, where there is an expectation collaboration will continue to accelerate on the back of improved relations. As James Laurenceson of the Australia-China Relations Institute recently noted, a stronger economic partnership will help foster more resilient ties across the board. Other analysts also see increased mutual benefits in the bilateral relationship. China-watcher James Curran suggests the visit may signal a maturing, more independent Australian foreign policy. The primary role of Australian statecraft is to do everything we possibly can to avoid a conflict. To avoid ever getting close to a decision about following the Americans into a war of that kind. This was best illustrated by Albanese's refusal to provide Washington with a wide-ranging and largely open-ended commitment to support the US in any conflict with China over Taiwan. Indeed, as Curran observes, Albanese has tried to steer the relationship away from disagreement and towards pragmatic engagement. Following his meeting with Xi, Albanese was repeatedly asked by Australian journalists if he raised sensitive issues such as Taiwan, China's military build-up and the South China Sea. While he confirmed these topics were addressed, he emphasised a preference for peaceful engagement: [...] we want peace and security in the region. That is in the interest of both Australia and in the interest of China. Unsurprisingly, the joint statement made no reference to these issues, reflecting a mutual decision to sidestep confrontation in favour of stabilising the relationship. This diplomatic posture toward China would appear to be a defining feature of the Albanese government's second term: strengthening cooperation while quietly managing differences. Rather than highlighting points of contention, the government is opting to avoid open disagreement where possible. Overt disputes risk destabilising bilateral ties. If issues are raised publicly, it is unlikely to shift entrenched positions on either side. This explains why the ownership of the Port of Darwin, for example, was not mentioned during Albanese's meeting with Xi. Critics, however, argue this risks projecting weakness towards China. Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warns the government is staying silent in the face of ongoing Chinese coercion: Australia is only complying with China's desires when the government says nothing and leaves the public to trust that the threats posed by China are all being dealt with in the classified realm. This is not viable policy. Australia's sovereignty must not be contingent on Beijing's preferences. Even within China, analysts are cautious about Albanese's approach. As one Chinese scholar told us, "a stable relationship does not necessarily mean a friendly one". In fact, while the Chinese media has stressed Australia and China's shared commitment to regional stability, this was barely mentioned in the official joint statement. Still, there is recognition on both sides that pragmatism rather than ideological grandstanding is the more sustainable path forward. In sum, Albanese's visit does not mark a dramatic reset or bold new direction in Australia-China relations. Rather, it signals a shift toward greater realism. In an increasingly complex and multipolar world, diplomacy grounded in mutual interests, rather than ideology, is not just practical, but may be a growing trend across the globe. The Albanese government has faced an increasingly uncertain world since its re-election in May. US President Donald Trump has cast a long shadow over the Australia-US alliance, raising fresh questions about Canberra's long-term regional strategy. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's approach to foreign policy is reflecting a careful recalibration - one that seeks to balance security partnerships with the pursuit of economic opportunities, especially with Australia's largest trading partner, China. Albanese has wrapped up a six-day visit to China which was characterised by a highly pragmatic approach to dealing with the problems and irritants in the bilateral relationship. Albanese's visit to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu - cities emblematic of Australia's political, economic and cultural connections with China - was more than symbolic. It was a high-profile diplomatic venture, with Albanese meeting both the Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. But it was more than a leaders' summit. A large team of key business leaders in banking, manufacturing, mining and education were on the trip to meet their Chinese counterparts and seek more cooperation. Economic engagement dominated the visit. As Albanese highlighted before his trip, "my priority is jobs". Broader partnerships spanning multiple sectors, including healthcare, education and green energy, were canvassed. The two nations also explored closer cooperation on energy transition and climate change. Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian has even floated a collaboration on artificial intelligence. However, the suggestion has been met with caution in Canberra due to ongoing concerns around national security and data governance. Beyond trade and investment, the visit also marked an effort to rebuild people-to-people exchanges. Since last year, Australian citizens have been able to visit China for up to 30 days without a visa. In turn, Australia will welcome more Chinese visitors under a new Memorandum of Understanding promoting Australia as a premier tourist destination for Chinese travellers. Albanese's meetings with Xi Jinping and Li Qiang also yielded concrete results. The official joint statement emphasised economic cooperation, particularly in climate-related areas such as steel decarbonisation, dryland farming and the green economy. These outcomes align with the Albanese government's guiding principle: cooperate where we can. The deeper economic cooperation has been noted in China, where there is an expectation collaboration will continue to accelerate on the back of improved relations. As James Laurenceson of the Australia-China Relations Institute recently noted, a stronger economic partnership will help foster more resilient ties across the board. Other analysts also see increased mutual benefits in the bilateral relationship. China-watcher James Curran suggests the visit may signal a maturing, more independent Australian foreign policy. The primary role of Australian statecraft is to do everything we possibly can to avoid a conflict. To avoid ever getting close to a decision about following the Americans into a war of that kind. This was best illustrated by Albanese's refusal to provide Washington with a wide-ranging and largely open-ended commitment to support the US in any conflict with China over Taiwan. Indeed, as Curran observes, Albanese has tried to steer the relationship away from disagreement and towards pragmatic engagement. Following his meeting with Xi, Albanese was repeatedly asked by Australian journalists if he raised sensitive issues such as Taiwan, China's military build-up and the South China Sea. While he confirmed these topics were addressed, he emphasised a preference for peaceful engagement: [...] we want peace and security in the region. That is in the interest of both Australia and in the interest of China. Unsurprisingly, the joint statement made no reference to these issues, reflecting a mutual decision to sidestep confrontation in favour of stabilising the relationship. This diplomatic posture toward China would appear to be a defining feature of the Albanese government's second term: strengthening cooperation while quietly managing differences. Rather than highlighting points of contention, the government is opting to avoid open disagreement where possible. Overt disputes risk destabilising bilateral ties. If issues are raised publicly, it is unlikely to shift entrenched positions on either side. This explains why the ownership of the Port of Darwin, for example, was not mentioned during Albanese's meeting with Xi. Critics, however, argue this risks projecting weakness towards China. Justin Bassi, executive director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, warns the government is staying silent in the face of ongoing Chinese coercion: Australia is only complying with China's desires when the government says nothing and leaves the public to trust that the threats posed by China are all being dealt with in the classified realm. This is not viable policy. Australia's sovereignty must not be contingent on Beijing's preferences. Even within China, analysts are cautious about Albanese's approach. As one Chinese scholar told us, "a stable relationship does not necessarily mean a friendly one". In fact, while the Chinese media has stressed Australia and China's shared commitment to regional stability, this was barely mentioned in the official joint statement. Still, there is recognition on both sides that pragmatism rather than ideological grandstanding is the more sustainable path forward. In sum, Albanese's visit does not mark a dramatic reset or bold new direction in Australia-China relations. Rather, it signals a shift toward greater realism. In an increasingly complex and multipolar world, diplomacy grounded in mutual interests, rather than ideology, is not just practical, but may be a growing trend across the globe.
Borneo Post
16-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
HONOR, Tourism Malaysia partner to boost Visit Malaysia 2026
(standing, from left) to right) Li, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Malaysia Chen Youliang and Lee witnessing the MoC signing between HONOR Malaysia marketing director Victor Yu (seated, left) and Tourism Malaysia International Promotion Division (Asia/ Africa) senior director Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi. KUALA LUMPUR (July 16): HONOR, a global AI device ecosystem leader, and Tourism Malaysia have signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MoC) to jointly promote Malaysia as a top travel destination ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. The MoC signing ceremony was held at Four Seasons Hotel, here, yesterday, marking a strategic partnership to highlight Malaysia's rich cultural diversity and natural heritage through mobile photography initiatives leveraging HONOR's advanced smartphone technologies. The collaboration will roll out a series of activities including photography competitions, workshops, art exhibitions, and cultural events nationwide. Among these is the HONOR Magic Moments Awards, an annual global mobile photography competition now open to Malaysians, providing a platform for participants to capture and showcase the essence of Malaysia using HONOR's innovative devices. HONOR South Pacific president Justin Li said the collaboration empowers users, especially youth, to share Malaysia's unique beauty with the world through the lens of HONOR smartphones. 'We are proud to support the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign by leveraging technology and innovation. We want to create new opportunities to promote Malaysia as a top travel destination, empower the nation's youth, and foster cultural exchange. 'Not only tourists but Malaysians themselves will also be able to enjoy and appreciate the country's beautiful moments and wonders captured through HONOR's smartphones,' he said. Tourism Malaysia deputy director general Lee Thai Hung described the collaboration as timely in enhancing Malaysia's global visibility. 'We are excited to collaborate with a forward-thinking partner like HONOR Malaysia. This partnership supports our efforts to diversify promotional strategies and embrace innovation in tourism marketing. 'As we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026, we are determined to build strong public-private collaborations that can elevate Malaysia's brand visibility on the global stage,' he said. As part of the collaboration, HONOR will produce content featuring its latest foldable flagship, the HONOR Magic V5, to enhance tourists' travel experiences across Malaysia. The content will offer travel tips and creative photography ideas powered by the device's advanced AI capabilities. Features such as Gemini Live Screen Sharing will allow tourists to receive real-time suggestions for attractions and navigate cities with ease, while the new Three Split Screen function enables travellers to compare hotel, transportation, and shopping options efficiently. The device's AI Translate function will facilitate smoother communication between tourists and locals, while its powerful camera system, including a 64MP periscope telephoto lens with 100x zoom, will help capture stunning images showcasing Malaysia's attractions. The partnership underscores HONOR's commitment to supporting Visit Malaysia 2026 by combining technology, innovation, and cultural storytelling to promote Malaysia globally.
