Mr. Kęstutis Lančinskas, the new Head of Mission of EUCAP Somalia, met with Mr. Stefano Tomat, Civilian Operations Commander and Managing Director of CPCC HQ prior to taking up duties in Somalia.

Mr. Lancinskas takes over the leadership of EUCAP Somalia from Mr. Kauko Aaltomaa with effect from 1 May.

Mr. Tomat thanked Mr. Aaltomaa for excellent service over the past two years and congratulated his successor Mr. Lančinskas. ‘The new Head of the Mission will continue to re-calibrate the EUCAP Somalia to support the Somali security architecture at the maritime security and land based police domains, including training of the Federal Darwish police forces’, – told the Civilian Operations Commander.

On 26 March 2024, the Council of the European Union appointed Kęstutis Lančinskas, a Lithuanian national, as the new Head of Mission (HoM) from 1 May to 31 December 2024. He served as an advisor for national security issues to Prime Minister of Lithuania. Before assuming this position, he was Vice-Minister of Interior, responsible for crisis management and state border protection. In the CSDP context, he has also served as the head of mission of the EU Advisory Mission (EUAM) in Ukraine from January 2016 to June 2019.

The European Union Capacity Building Mission in Somalia (EUCAP Somalia) is a civilian crisis management mission that supports the development of Somali maritime security and wider police capacity. The Mission provides strategic level advice, mentoring, capacity building and training on issues ranging from coastguard functions to police-prosecution cooperation and law drafting. The mission’s budget for its mandate for years 2023-24 is EUR 81 million.

EUCAP Somalia Headquarter is based in Mogadishu with field offices in Somaliland and Puntland, and a back-office in Nairobi, Kenya.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of European Union External Action: The Diplomatic Service of the European Union.

During the final day of the 49th IsDB Annual Meetings, the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) (http://www.ITFC-idb.org), a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, held further high-level discussions with member countries including Guinea Conakry and Turkmenistan, and partner banks and financial institutions. The outcomes achieved during the various engagements during the Annual Meetings demonstrate ITFC’s commitment to advancing trade and enhancing economic cooperation across its member countries.

The final day also featured the signing of a US$20 million financing with Asakabank, Uzbekistan to enhance the Islamic financial services in Uzbekistan and support the private sector and SMEs.

Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, CEO of ITFC, commented on the final day’s events: “The ITFC team was honored to be part of the 49th IsDB Annual Meetings where the Bank celebrated its 50th anniversary of promoting comprehensive human development. The Annual Meetings provided opportunities to put a spotlight on the ITFC role as a catalyst in facilitating trade development among OIC member countries and beyond. During the meetings, ITFC signed several significant financing and trade development agreements that will positively impact socio-economic development in OIC member countries. The results of the Annual Meetings were a resounding success.”

 As the curtains fall on the 49th IsDB Group Annual Meetings, ITFC’s impactful engagements and strategic agreements was manifested in delivering over US$5.6 billion of commitments, demonstrating the Corporation’s dedication to boosting trade finance and fostering economic development. This reaffirms ITFC’s role as a key player in promoting sustainable economic growth and trade cooperation among OIC member countries.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Contact us:
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Fax: +966 12 637 1064
E-mail: ITFC@itfc-idb.org

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About the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC):
The International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC) is a member of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group. It was established with the primary objective of advancing trade among OIC member countries, which would ultimately contribute to the overarching goal of improving the socioeconomic conditions of the people across the world. Commencing operations in January 2008, ITFC has provided US$75 billion of financing to OIC member countries, making it the leading provider of trade solutions for these member countries’ needs. With a mission to become a catalyst for trade development for OIC member countries and beyond, the Corporation helps entities in member countries gain better access to trade finance and provides them with the necessary trade-related capacity-building tools, which would enable them to successfully compete in the global market.

Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle (https://apo-opa.co/3ToAJ36) (www.RadissonHotels.com) opens its doors as the first upscale Radisson-branded hotel in Morocco. Situated in the heart of the vibrant Gauthier district in Casablanca, the thriving port city that fronts the Atlantic Ocean, the opening of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle marks Radisson Hotel Group’s second hotel in Casablanca and the ninth hotel opening in Morocco.

Offering a delightful blend of comfort and convenience, Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle is located in the central hub of Gauthier, near Villa des Arts and the “White City’s” key cultural attractions, including La Corniche, Parc de la Ligue Arabe, the bustling Medina, and the majestic Hassan II Mosque.

Owned and operated by subsidiaries of Al Hoceinia Holding, the hotel boasts 133 spacious rooms, including nine suites which have been designed to offer guests a generous living space with premium amenities. Each room is equipped with a relaxation area as well as a desk for business travelers. The design of each room has been meticulously planned, using high-quality materials and a modern and clean white and beige aesthetic that strikes the perfect balance between functionality and comfort, offering guests an unrivaled and harmonious travel experience.

Braise Restaurant offers guests an unforgettable culinary experience with its wood-fired cuisine, sophisticated décor, welcoming atmosphere, live music, and vast views. At the stylish Bliss rooftop bar and restaurant, guests can enjoy refined cocktails, delicious bar bites, and ambient tunes from the resident DJ while admiring the panoramic views of the city and the Arab League Park. The Lobby Bar is the perfect spot to unwind with an artisanal cocktail.

“We are thrilled to debut our upscale Radisson brand in Morocco with the opening of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle, and are grateful to Al Hoceinia Holding for the opportunity to champion Moroccan travel and tourism together. The hotel boasts an idyllic location in the cosmopolitan Gauthier district which perfectly complements our growing portfolio in Casablanca. Our expansion in Morocco over recent years has been remarkable, including this latest addition marking our ninth hotel opening in the country,” said Tim Cordon, Chief Operating Officer, Middle East, Africa, and SEAP, Radisson Hotel Group.

“Our exceptional ‘Yes I Can!’ service, captivating interiors, and delectable cuisine create an unparalleled and seamless experience in the city. We are confident that we will become one of the most sought-after hotels in Casablanca, and can’t wait to offer our guests an unforgettable stay,” said Julian Martin, General Manager of Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle.

Boasting 450 square meters of state-of-the-art meeting and event spaces, including a ballroom and five meeting rooms equipped with the latest audiovisual technology, the hotel is the ideal venue to host an unforgettable event. For guests seeking to maintain their fitness routine, Radisson Hotel Casablanca Gauthier La Citadelle offers an energizing fitness center boasting a wide range of state-of-the-art cardio and strength-training equipment, as well as an outdoor pool and rejuvenating yoga classes.

For more information and to book, visit https://apo-opa.co/3ToAJ36

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Radisson Hotel Group.

Media Contact:
Saadiyah Hendricks
Area PR&Social Media Director|
MEA, Mediterranean and SEAP
Radisson Hotel Group
Saadiyah.hendricks@radissonhotels.com

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About Radisson Hotel Group:
Radisson Hotel Group is an international hotel group, operating in EMEA and APAC with over 1,320 hotels in operation and under development in +95 countries. The international hotel group is rapidly expanding with a plan to significantly grow the portfolio. The Group’s overarching brand promise is Every Moment Matters with a signature Yes I Can! service ethos. 

The Radisson family of brands portfolio includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn&Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels.  

Radisson Rewards (https://apo-opa.co/48eby8X) is Radisson Hotel Group’s loyalty program, which delivers an elevated experience that makes Every Moment Matter. As the most streamlined program in the sector, members enjoy exceptional advantages and can access their benefits from day one across a wide range of hotels in Europe, Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific.   

Radisson Meetings (https://apo-opa.co/49xBHAD) provides tailored solutions for any event or meeting, including hybrid solutions placing guests and their needs at the heart of its offer. Radisson Meetings is built around three strong service commitments: Personal, Professional and Memorable, while delivering on the brilliant basics and being uniquely 100% Carbon Neutral.  

At Radisson Hotel Group we care for people, communities and planet (https://apo-opa.co/3SC295s) and aim to be Net Zero by 2050 based on the approved near-term Science Based Targets. With unique solutions such as 100% carbon neutral Radisson Meetings, we make sustainable hotel stays easy. To facilitate sustainable travel choices, all our hotels are becoming verified on Hotel Sustainability Basics. 

The health and safety of guests and team members remain a top priority for Radisson Hotel Group. All properties across the Group’s portfolio are subject to health and safety requirements, ensuring we always care for our guests and team members. 

For more information, visit our corporate website (https://apo-opa.co/42k6te0).  

About Radisson:
Radisson is an upscale hotel brand that offers Scandinavian inspired hospitality, which enables guests to find more harmony in their travel experience. With natural surroundings and unexpected delights, Radisson inspires the art of being in the moment. We are committed to helping our guests find the right balance for their stay, removing the discomforts travelling may bring and enabling them to switch off and relax, using our Yes I Can! attitude to ensure satisfaction of every guest. Radisson hotels can be found in suburban and city settings, near airports and leisure destinations. Guests and professional business partners can enhance their experience with Radisson by participating in Radisson Rewards, an international loyalty program offering exceptional benefits and rewards. 

Radisson is part of the Radisson family of brands, which also includes Radisson Collection, art’otel, Radisson Blu, Radisson RED, Radisson Individuals, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, Country Inn&Suites by Radisson, and prizeotel brought together under one commercial umbrella brand Radisson Hotels. 

For reservations and more information, visit our website (https://apo-opa.co/3SkREDo). 

About Al Hoceinia Hospitality:
Al Hoceinia Hospitality is a subsidiary of Al Hoceinia Holding, a leading holding company in key sectors such as real estate, agriculture, hospitality, and education.

For over 60 years, Al Hoceinia Holding is a leader in the sectors in which it operates, with over 28,000 real estate properties developed in Morocco, a presence in Senegal since 2022 and Côte d’Ivoire. The group is also the owner of several agriculture estates with a total surface of 1,300 hectares of arable land. In the education sector, it has a capacity for 3,700 students..

Al Hoceinia Hospitality is a full-service hospitality management company, driven by excellence and innovation. The company has a development plan to operate 5 branded hotels and resorts in the next 5 years in Morocco’s major cities.

For more information, please visit our website https://AlHoceinia.ma  

The Business Forum of the Islamic Development Bank Group (THIQAH) (www.IDBGBF.org) and the Federation of Saudi Chambers concluded a joint agreement and cooperation by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to facilitate cooperation between the two parties and work closely to enhance, support, and consolidate integration efforts between the economy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the member countries of the Islamic Development Bank.

The MOU was signed between Eng. Hani Salem Sonbol, the Acting CEO of the Islamic Corporation for the Development of the Private Sector, on behalf of (THIQAH), and Mr. Walid bin Muhammad Al-Orainan, the Acting Secretary-General of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, during the meetings of the Islamic Development Bank and the private sector held from 28 to 30 April 2024G at the InterContinental Hotel Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The main objective of the MOU is to exchange investment opportunities that can be implemented in cooperation between the member countries of the Islamic Development Bank Group and to cooperate to organize mutual visits between businessmen in various activities (commercial, service, industrial, investment, agricultural, etc.) and to invite them to attend conferences and forums held by the two parties, in accordance with what It is stipulated by the laws and regulations of each party. Moreover, the MOU aims at exchanging annual work programs to identify areas of joint work and coordinating relevant activities and events, as well as working to prepare a program for holding joint meetings and workshops to achieve the objectives of this memorandum.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum (THIQAH).

Contacts:
Twitter: @IDBGTHIQAH
Facebook: @IDBGTHIQAH
LinkedIn: IsDB Group Business Forum – THIQAH
Email: THIQAH@isdb.org
THIQAH@isdb.org

About the Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum – Thiqa (THIQAH):
The Islamic Development Bank Group Business Forum “THIQAH” is the Bank Group’s window that facilitates communication and coordination between its relevant institutions, private sector companies and relevant institutions in member countries. The main objective of Thiqa is to create a unique platform for effective dialogue, cooperation and comprehensive partnership for business leaders committed to partnering on promising investment opportunities. In performing its role as a facilitator and catalyst, the Thiqa Forum will leverage the Bank Group’s resources to provide investors with the necessary services and confidence, and to establish strategic partnerships with private sector leaders. The primary focus will be on promoting cross-border investment between member countries supported by the Bank Group’s financial products and services. (www.IDBGBF.org).

About the Federation of Saudi Chambers:
The Federation of Saudi Chambers was established, based in Riyadh, pursuant to the Royal Decree No. M/6, dated 30-04-1400H (March 1980G), to undertake the common interests of the 26 chambers of commerce in the Kingdom, represent them at the local and external levels, and strive to develop the role of the private sector in the national economy. The Federation began its actual work by forming its executive body, which stands for its General Secretariat, in 1401H (1981G). This enables the Federation to take rapid steps towards achieving its objectives.

The Federation of Saudi Chambers represents the umbrella of the Saudi business sector and the chambers of commerce in the Kingdom that strives to preserve interests locally and internally, and works to serve the Saudi economy through two main levels:

The Internal level: Transmitting the challenges of the private sector at the national level to government agencies, through a national sectoral committee that assumes the responsibilities of the various sectors and discusses their issues, concerns, and regulations with the competent government agencies.

The international level: Representing the private sector in forums, events, and conferences, as well as participating in formulating international economic policies, strengthening the Kingdom’s trade relations with the world, and enhancing the conditions of Saudi exports through 42 joint Saudi-foreign business councils affiliated with the Federation.