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Hong Kong-headquartered International Mediation Body Established


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 May 2025 – International mediation marked a significant milestone yesterday (May 30) with the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed). The IOMed, with its headquarters in Hong Kong, is the world’s first inter-governmental international legal organisation devoted to the use of mediation in resolving international disputes.

More than 80 countries and about 20 international organisations, including the United Nations, sent senior representatives to Hong Kong to witness the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation. Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, attended the Signing Ceremony and was the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China. Altogether, 33 countries signed the Convention on-site, making them the founding members of the IOMed.

Addressing the ceremony, Mr Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations. The IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, whose handover is itself a success story of peaceful settlement of international disputes. He added that the success of the “one country, two systems” principle has created brighter prospects for prosperity and stability in Hong Kong.

Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, speaks at the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and is the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China.
Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, speaks at the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and is the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China.

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), John Lee, thanked the Central Government for its staunch support of Hong Kong, and the international community for placing their trust and confidence in the city.

“The IOMed will provide a pathway for countries – regardless of culture, language and legal system – to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding,” Mr Lee said. “This is increasingly important amid mounting geopolitical tensions.”

Mr Lee underscored that the IOMed reflected a shared confidence in mediation as a peaceful means to maintain international peace and security, as stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations.

HKSAR’s Chief Executive John Lee speaks at the signing ceremony.
HKSAR’s Chief Executive John Lee speaks at the signing ceremony.

The Chief Executive also set out Hong Kong’s advantages as an effective “super connector” and “super value-adder” and said the city would actively promote the IOMed’s valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation.

“Despite geopolitical turbulence, Hong Kong builds bridges, not walls,” Mr Lee said. “Under our unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage.

“We are the only common law jurisdiction in China, and the only jurisdiction in the world with a bilingual common law system in both Chinese and English. We have a long tradition of the rule of law, and our courts exercise their judicial power independently.”

With a robust, efficient and well-respected legal system as well as world-class legal and dispute resolution services professionals, Hong Kong is also the most preferred seat for arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region.

The IOMed headquarters will be located at the site of the former Wan Chai Police Station, once renovation of the Grade 2 historic building is completed.

“I’m happy to say that it could open its doors as early as the end of this year,” said Mr Lee.

“We look forward not only to welcoming its new occupants, but also to supporting them in building new bridges for a more connected, peaceful and prosperous future through mediation.”

Representatives from over 30 countries, including China and countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, jointly signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong on May 30.
Representatives from over 30 countries, including China and countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, jointly signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong on May 30.

In the afternoon, the Global Forum on International Mediation discussed topics such as mediation of disputes among countries and mediation of international investment and commercial disputes and the contributions that the IOMed can make.
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #mediation





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5.8 Kg Heroin Seized at Wattay International Airport Adds to 134 Kg Narcotics Seized in May

Dutch suspect caught with 5.8kg of heroin in travel bags at Wattay International Airport. Vientiane capital, Laos. 29 May 2025. (Photo: Ministry of Finance)

Lao authorities seized 5.8 kilograms of heroin on 29 May, concealed within aluminum-lined blankets inside two travel bags during a routine inspection that led to the arrest of a 70-year-old Dutch national. 

The operation involved officers from the Investigation and Anti-Smuggling Division working with customs officers, immigration police, and international terminal protocol staff.

This latest seizure adds to a series of major drug activities at Wattay International Airport throughout late May, with authorities confiscating over 134 kilograms of narcotics and arresting multiple international suspects in operations that highlight the country’s intensified efforts against drug trafficking.

Two days earlier on 27 May, three Malaysian nationals were arrested attempting to smuggle 103 packages of marijuana totaling 86 kilograms to Germany. The drugs were discovered during routine screening procedures, concealed within six suitcases belonging to the suspects.

On 22 May, authorities arrested a Bulgarian citizen after discovering 14 kilograms of heroin hidden in 14 packets within animal feed and coffee bags that had been prepared for international transport. 

The previous day, officers seized 31 packets of heroin totaling 28.5 kilograms from three suspicious bags belonging to a passenger from an undisclosed African nation, with the drugs similarly concealed in animal feed and coffee bags.

All four cases remain under further investigation by the Lao Ministry of Public Security.

Open Cooperation and Development Conference of “Nanjing Tour of German Enterprises” Convenes

NANJING, China, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from JSBC:

On May 23, the Open Cooperation and Development Conference of “Nanjing Tour of German Enterprises” brought together C-suite executives from Germany’s Fortune Global 500 corporations, niche market leaders (“hidden champions”), and industry leaders to explore collaborative opportunities.

Zhang Wenwu, Vice Chairman and executive director of CITIC Group, and Dr. Clas Neumann, Chairperson of the Board of German Chamber of Commerce in China – East China addressed the conference. 

At the conference, Nanjing’s high-quality business environment was presented under the theme “Transcending Boundaries through Shared Vision: Collaborative Pathways to Mutual Prosperity.”

Zhang Wenwu emphasized that the event exemplifies concrete support for German enterprises investing in China and Nanjing, reflecting CITIC’s commitment to sustainable multi-stakeholder partnerships. He vowed to strengthen CITIC’s role as a bridge, deepening Sino-German economic ties, enhancing Nanjing’s development capacity, integrating industries with technology, and upgrading financial services.

Dr. Clas Neumann noted that the event provides a vital platform for German-Nanjing collaboration. He praised Nanjing’s robust industrial base, efficient transportation, abundant educational resources, and favorable business climate as ideal for investment. According to him, Nanjing has allocated substantial resources to new technologies and sustainable development technologies. Many German companies in the city are actively engaged in sustainability-focused sectors such as wind power, hydropower, and related industries, while numerous enterprises are also investing in digital transformation to drive sustainable practices. Meanwhile, traditional industries including automotive, chemical, and pharmaceutical sectors remain crucial in propelling economic growth. Expressing strong confidence in Nanjing’s future, Neumann pledged the Chamber’s commitment to guiding more German enterprises to explore opportunities and foster win-win partnerships.

A panel discussion on “Sino-German Future Industrial Collaboration” was held. Dr. Xiao Song, Global Executive Vice President and President & CEO Siemens Greater China, delivered a keynote speech. Panelists included Armin Necker, CTO and COO of ThyssenKrupp Rothe Erde Group; Hua Ning, General Manager of DB Schenker; Huang Yixin, Chairman of Nanjing Iron & Steel Group; and Li Chao, Vice President of Estun Automation.

The event featured the launch of the Nanjing-CITIC Global Investment and Trade Service Network and the CITIC-Nanjing Multinational Innovation Hub which are meant to assist European enterprises in investing in Nanjing while supporting local enterprises in expanding overseas through comprehensive services. A business license was awarded to Yangtze River Sci-Tech Development Co., Ltd. of Jiangbei New Area, followed by multiple project signings.

Timor-Leste to Become ASEAN’s 11th Member, Says Malaysian PM

Timor-Leste will be accepted as the 11th full member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced. (Photo: tirto)

Timor-Leste will be accepted as the 11th full member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced.

According to Malaysia’s national news agency, Anwar said ASEAN leaders had reached a consensus to support Timor-Leste in completing the necessary steps for full membership in the regional bloc.

The decision, he stated, is for Timor-Leste to be officially admitted by the ASEAN Summit in October, pending the completion of one or two key reforms, particularly in the economic sphere. Anwar made the announcement during a press conference at the conclusion of the 46th ASEAN Summit on 27 May.

Timor-Leste first applied for ASEAN membership in 2011 and was granted observer status in 2022, allowing participation in high-level meetings. Full membership, however, has been under deliberation at the leadership level in recent summits.

Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister, Xanana Gusmão, attended the May Summit in Malaysia.

During the summit, Malaysian PM Anwar noted that ASEAN leaders have tasked ministers and senior officials with finalizing procedural steps for Timor-Leste’s admission by the upcoming 47th ASEAN Summit in October. They have also been directed to expedite negotiations on key economic agreements.

The statement indicated that they had tasked the ASEAN Coordinating Council, with the support of all relevant ASEAN Sectoral Ministerial Bodies and the ASEAN Secretariat, to extend the necessary support to facilitate Timor-Leste’s integration into the ASEAN community.

CirCode Biomed Announces FDA Clearance for IND Application of HM2002, the world’s first circular RNA drug being administrated in patients

SHANGHAI, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai CirCode Biomed Co. Ltd. (CirCode), an innovative biotech company pioneering circular RNA therapies, recently announced that its leading pipeline HM2002 received Investigational New Drug (IND) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for ischemic heart disease on May 30, 2025.

With the first patient administrated on September of 2024 in an investigator initiated trial (IIT), HM2002 is the world’s first circular RNA drug ever being used in patients. It received IND approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China on January 10th, 2025. HM2002 is currently the first circular RNA therapy to receive IND clearance in both China and the United States, and is also the only circular RNA drug globally approved for clinical study on patients with ischemic heart disease.

With the global aging population, ischemic heart disease shows a steadily rising incidence, and has been the leading cause of death globally for the past decades. The current standard of care shows limited effects in promoting myocardial microcirculation reconstruction and angiogenesis, leading to suboptimal efficacy and limited benefit in 10-year survival. There is an urgent unmet medical need for next generation therapies to improve patients’ prognosis and quality of life.

With the advantages of improved stability and low immunogenicity from circular RNAs, HM2002 can safely and continuously express vascular endothelial growth factor (VGEF) in the myocardium, which promotes angiogenesis, improves myocardial perfusion, and facilitates cardiac function recovery. It has demonstrated excellent safety and efficacy in the preclinical studies. In the first-in-human IIT at Ruijin Hospital initiated last year, all subjects showed significant cardiac function improvement without any drug-related adverse events.

“To promote angiogenesis and relief ischemia through VEGF overexpression is a well-tested solution, but there is a tremendous challenge to achieve an efficient, persistent, and controllable expression of VEGF in vivo. We find an excellent match between the need and the properties of circular RNA. A single dose of HM2002 can express VEGF protein for a perfect time window in vivo: long enough for efficient angiogenesis, short enough for any safety concerns. Once the microcirculation reformed, it brings long-lasting benefits to patients without the presence of HM2002 or VEGF protein,” said Dr. Chenxiang Tang, CEO of CirCode. “The IND clearances from both NMPA and FDA for HM2002 is a strong recognition for our innovation and competitiveness in the circular RNA therapeutic industry.

Dr. Yun Yang, co-founder, chairman, and chief technology officer of CirCode, stated that, “CirCode’s robust, proprietary circular RNA platform laid the foundation for the fast IND approval of HM2002. With the help of our AI tools, we were able to leap from a concept to IND approval of HM2002 in less than 2 years. We now have built a strong pipeline portfolio in various fields such as therapeutic proteins, vaccines, and in vivo CAR-T, covering multiple therapeutic areas such as cardiovascular diseases, infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and oncology. These pipelines have showed a favorable risk benefit profile with great efficacy and safety data in preclinical settings, many of which will enter the clinical stage within the next year. We are so excited to keep pushing the frontier of circular RNA therapy forward and providing more innovative therapies for patients.”

About CirCode

CirCode is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specializing in circular RNA therapeutics. Leveraging strong science and deep know-how, the company has built a fully integrated and proprietary platform, protected by a comprehensive global patent network, paving the way for the development of circular RNA therapeutics. Focusing on unmet medical needs, CirCode has built a robust pipeline targeting vaccines, cardiovascular diseases, autoimmune disorders, and oncology. CirCode is backed by top-tier investors and has received strong recognitions from leading pharmaceutical companies. Circode is committed to promoting the transformation of scientific and technological achievements and realizing the benefit of science and technology for mankind.

More information please visit www.circodebio.com

Or contact info@circodebio.com for business cooperation.

Illuminating ctDNA-MRD: Gene Solutions’ K-CONNECT APAC 2025 Sparks Regional Collaboration in Precision Oncology

DA NANG, Vietnam, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — May 9-11, 2025, Gene Solutions, a pioneer in AI-driven precision oncology hosted K-CONNECT APAC 2025, a pivotal summit uniting over 100 distinguished oncologists and molecular biologists from nine Asia-Pacific countries. — This landmark event marked a significant milestone in advancing precision oncology, fostering collaboration, and driving innovation in the fields of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)Molecular Residual Disease (MRD), and Comprehensive Genomic Profiling (CGP).

Under the theme “Empowering the Potential of ctDNA-MRD,” 16 distinguished speakers and panelists shared clinical insights, breakthrough research, and innovative strategies for integrating ctDNA-MRD into cancer practice.

“While ctDNA and MRD are invisible to the eye, K-CONNECT APAC 2025 shed transformative light on their potential through regional collaboration and clinical innovation,” said Ida Deleskog Lindstrom, Global Medical Affairs Director at Gene Solutions. “Illuminating ctDNA-MRD means revealing actionable insights that spark hope, clarity, and progress through molecular insights to transform precision oncology.”

“K-CONNECT APAC 2025 was a transformative moment for precision oncology in the Asia-Pacific, bringing together diverse expertise to translate ctDNA-MRD advancements into real-world clinical impact” said Professor Nick Pavlakis, Co-Chair of the summit and a leading medical oncologist from Australia. “This summit has set a new benchmark for collaborative innovation, paving the way for personalized cancer care across the region”

A First-of-Its-Kind Gathering in Asia-Pacific

Gene Solutions, a regional pioneer in ctDNA-MRD testing, has supported over 6,000 cancer patients via its next generation comprehensive AI-powered K-TRACK® and K-4CARE® platforms. K-CONNECT APAC 2025 showcased its role in fostering cross-border expertise to accelerate adoption of precision diagnostics.

The summit featured three key sessions shared by 16 esteemed experts

K-CONNECT ACADEMIC Session :

  • The Importance of ctDNA-MRD and CGP in Precision Oncology
  • Unique Combination of Genomic & Transcriptomic Profiling with ctDNA-MRD Monitoring
  • Key findings from Asia’s First Real-World Study of ctDNA-MRD Monitoring in Solid Tumors.

K-CONNECT CASE SHARING Session

  • ctDNA-MRD Applications & Real-World Case Sharing in Colorectal, Lung and Breast cancers.

K-CONNECT NEXT  LANDMARK Session

  • Genetic Testing Guided Personalized Immunotherapy in Refractory Solid Tumors.
  • Triad of Impact– A Multi-omic Solution to Advance Precision Oncology Innovation.

Beyond an Event — Establishing a Platform for Ongoing Impact

K-CONNECT is evolving into a regional hub for knowledge exchange, clinical collaborations, and precision oncology innovation acceleration. Upcoming initiatives include:

  • K-CONNECT Webinar Series – Ongoing expert-led case discussions
  • Clinical Trials Collaboration – Cross-border partnerships with biopharma and research institutions
  • Experience ctDNA-MRD Program – Hands-on implementation support for clinicians
  • Knowledge Hub – A digital platform for APAC oncology insights

Shaping the Future of Cancer Care

K-CONNECT APAC 2025 solidified Gene Solutions’ leadership in genetic testing and its commitment to advancing equitable access to innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes. By fostering collaboration and showcasing real-world impact, the summit laid the foundation for a more connected, data-driven, and patient-centered future in cancer care across the Asia-Pacific.

About Gene Solutions

Gene Solutions is a leading multinational biotechnology company headquartered in Asia, pioneering the integration of advanced AI and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) technologies to deliver innovative solutions across the cancer care continuum. Recognized for its proprietary research and CAP-accredited laboratories, the company combines multi-dimensional genomics with AI-driven analytics to transform oncology—from early detection to real-time treatment monitoring.

With a strong regional presence and a commitment to empowering access to precision medicine, Gene Solutions is shaping the future of cancer diagnostics and personalized care across the Asia-Pacific.

Explore more information at: https://genesolutions.com/ 

MEDIA CONTACT: pr@genesolutions.com

Arctech to Supply 175 MW of Solar Trackers for Landmark Green Hydrogen Project in Oman

DUQM, Oman, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Arctech, the global leader in solar tracking, racking, and BIPV solutions, has signed a strategic contract with ACME Cleantech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. a pure play fully integrated Renewable Energy Company in India with a diversified portfolio across solar, wind, hybrid and FDRE projects to supply 175 MWp of solar trackers for the 300 MTPD Green Ammonia Project in Duqm, Oman.

The project is located near the southeastern coast of Oman, a region characterized by coastal desert conditions including sandy soils, high wind speeds (up to 55 m/s), C5-level corrosion exposure, extreme temperatures and high levels of solar radiation, with an annual average of around 5,764 KWh/m2. The area’s favourable climate, with high solar insolation, has made it a prime location for utility-scale solar projects.

Arctech will deploy its Signature 1P Single Axis Solar Tracking System Skyline II, engineered for harsh environments, to support the solar PV component powering one of the first large-scale green hydrogen production facilities in the region. The trackers will be delivered in phases starting from July 2025.

In recent years, Oman Power and Water Procurement Company (OPWP) has introduced renewable energy initiatives such as a new Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) project in Duqm. OPWP is actively working toward a diverse energy mix, aligning with the national target of sourcing 35–39% of electricity from renewables by 2040. This new partnership reinforces Oman’s long-term vision and positions the Duqm region as a central hub in the global energy transition.

This milestone collaboration underscores Arctech’s growing role in enabling renewable energy megaprojects worldwide. The Oman installation is a flagship initiative in industrial decarbonization—integrating solar power with next-gen hydrogen fuel technologies, setting new benchmarks in clean energy integration. Moreover, Arctech has an extensive track record of experience in numerous GW-scale large projects across the globe, which instils confidence in this partnership.

“We are pleased to partner with Arctech for our 300 MTPD Green Hydrogen project in Duqm, Oman. This collaboration marks an important milestone in our green hydrogen journey, and we are confident that Arctech’s advanced tracking solutions and project execution capabilities will support us in achieving optimal energy efficiency and reliability under challenging coastal and high-wind site conditions,” said by Vipin Aggarwal, VP of Procurement in Green Hydrogen and International Business.

Celebrate Memorial Day with Extended Savings on Monport CO2 Laser Engraving Machines

NEW YORK, May 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This Memorial Day, the ultimate opportunity to upgrade your laser engraving setup has been extended — bringing unbeatable deals on industry-leading CO2 and fiber laser machines. Monport Laser, a leading innovator in laser engraving and cutting technology, is extending its highly anticipated Memorial Day Sale to give customers more time to unlock deep savings and exclusive pre-sale benefits. From home studios to industrial floors, Monport’s cutting-edge CO2 laser machines lineup—including the powerful Monport Mega 70W, the sleek new Reno Series, and professional-grade fiber laser engravers—now comes with unbeatable Memorial Day savings.

The Memorial Day Sale Extension is now live on Monport Laser website and features tiered discounts across all CO2 laser engravers — making it easier than ever to power up productivity and precision.

Explore the full Memorial Day sale here.

Buy More, Save More — Memorial Day Savings Extended

Back by overwhelming demand, Monport’s “Buy More, Save More” campaign rewards customers at every investment level with tiered savings:

These exclusive savings apply to all Monport CO2 laser engraving machines, including both the Monport Mega 70W and the pre-sale Reno Series models. Whether you’re upgrading to a high-capacity desktop engraver like the Mega or getting in early on the next generation of Reno machines, now is the time to act.

Monport Mega 70W — Intelligent Desktop Engraving, Elevated

Designed for serious creators who demand high speed, accuracy, and versatility, the Monport Mega 70W CO2 Laser is the most advanced intelligent desktop engraver Monport has ever produced. Built to outperform others in its class, the Mega brings industrial power to a compact, user-friendly format ideal for home workshops and business studios alike.

The Monport Mega 70W allows creators to engrave everything from wood, leather, and acrylic to custom gifts and signage—without sacrificing speed or accuracy. Its powerful CO2 laser system, combined with smart automation, makes it a top-tier solution for growing businesses and experienced makers alike.

Limited-Time Pricing:

This pricing is available only during the extended Memorial Day sale. Once the event ends, the Mega returns to its original retail price.

Get Started with Monport Mega Savings!

Pre-Order the Reno Series — Get a Free Gift Valued Up to $300

In addition to the Monport Mega, Monport is launching the all-new Reno Series, including the Reno 45W, Reno 45W Pro, and Reno 65W models. These CO2 laser engravers are built for creators who demand speed, efficiency, and cutting-edge design.

To celebrate the Reno Series pre-sale, Monport is offering an exclusive pre-order promotion:

Choose One Free Gift with Your Reno Pre-Order:

These gifts are only available during the limited-time pre-sale period. All Reno orders will ship within 60 days, and once this offer ends—there are no second chances.

With customers already praising the Monport Mega for its reliability and performance, the Reno Series is poised to deliver the same engineering excellence with a new, streamlined design.

Pre-Order Your Laser Today!

More Power. More Savings. More Possibilities.

From the versatile Monport Mega 70W to the future-forward Reno Series, Monport is leading the CO2 laser engraving industry with machines that balance power, speed, and usability. Backed by responsive U.S.-based support, detailed training resources, and continuous product innovation, Monport empowers creators at every level—from side-hustlers to production professionals.

This extended Memorial Day promotion provides a rare opportunity to secure the best equipment Monport has to offer at a fraction of the cost.

A Deal for Every Maker

From schools and sign shops to Etsy entrepreneurs and hardware labs, Monport’s extended Memorial Day deals are strategically crafted to provide solutions for every budget and workflow. The company continues to lead in customer-first innovation, offering best-in-class support, easy-to-use machines, and scalable engraving solutions for wood, acrylic, leather, glass, and more.

As the maker movement continues to grow, Monport Laser empowers individuals and teams to cut, engrave, and innovate with confidence.

Availability & Deadlines

The extended Memorial Day Sale is available now through Monport’s official website. Shoppers are encouraged to act quickly as inventory is limited, and gift availability for Reno Series pre-orders is first come, first served.

Don’t Miss This Opportunity:

About Monport

Monport is dedicated to revolutionizing the laser engraving industry by offering state-of-the-art solutions that combine power, precision, and ease of use. With a commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Monport provides a diverse range of CO2 and fiber laser machines designed for businesses, makers, and industrial professionals. Backed by expert support and continuous advancements, Monport helps users unlock new creative possibilities and elevate their engraving capabilities.