Business: Furniture China 2008 reveals new design

Shanghai, China - Medianet International/AsiaNet - When Furniture China opens its doors to smart buyers from all over the world, Asia's leading event for the furniture industry will show off a completely new design. Visitors will be treated to a show that once again proves that it is ahead of the competition, not only because it presents the very best that Asia has to offer, but also because it sports a new look and feel. In an exercise that lasted more than six months, Furniture China organizer CMP Sinoexpo and the renowned Paris-based architects Saguez & Partners, have redeveloped the show's visual identity, from the logo to the entrance badges, from the catalogue design to onsite signage.

Explains Wang Mingliang, Director of CMP Sinoexpo and founder of Furniture China: "Over the past years, Furniture China has established itself firmly as a brand event and among the few shows with global impact. We wanted a visual identity that reflects both our global positioning and our origins. The results are fabulous. In addition, the new identity will have a very positive additional effect, namely by encouraging exhibitors to invest in creativity as a strategic asset. We want to demonstrate that good design pays off."

Furniture China 2008 will take place at the Shanghai New International Expo Center and Shanghai Everbright Convention & Exhibition Centre from September 10-13, 2008.

Shanghai CMP Sinoexpo International Exhibition Co., Ltd. (CMP Sinoexpo) is a professional joint-venture exhibition enterprise between Shanghai Sinoexpo International Exhibition Ltd (established in 1992) and CMP China Ltd., the arm of CMP Asia that is responsible for the group's mainland China business. It combines CMP Asia's global strength and experience with Sinoexpo's local network and expertise to stage 27 large-scale international events every year in China.

SOURCE Shanghai CMP Sinoexpo

07/07/2008
CONTACT: Yolanda Xu, CMP Sinoexpo, +86 21 6437 1178,
yolandaxu@cmpsinoexpo.com/

Business in Asia Today - July 7, 2008

NEW AIRBUS TECHNOLOGY JV OPENS IN CHINA
Beijing (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Airbus has convened the first board meeting of the Airbus (Beijing) Engineering Technology Center, a joint venture between Airbus and three Chinese aviation enterprises, which marks the official operation of the new joint venture.
The Airbus (Beijing) Engineering Technology Center, established in 2005, which mainly handles the design of current and future Airbus planes, was operating as a solely foreign-funded venture until it got a joint venture business license in June 2008.
Now Airbus (China) Co., Ltd. owns a 70 per cent stake in the joint venture, while the Hafei Aviation Industry Co., Ltd.,
(SSE:600038) Jiangxi Hongdu Aviation Industry Co., Ltd (SSE:600316) and the China Aviation Industry Corporation I take the stake of 18 per cent, seven per cent and five per cent respectively.

SAMSUNG HEAVY WINS US$705.6MLN ORDER TO BUILD DRILL SHIP
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Samsung Heavy Industries Co. (KSE:010140), the world's second-largest shipyard, said today that it had received an order to build a drill ship for 739.2 billion won (US$705.6 million).
The deal with a U.S shipping company calls on Samsung Heavy Industries to deliver the vessel by January 2012, the company said in a regulatory filing.
Shipyards in South Korea, the world's largest shipbuilding nation, have won record orders over the past few years as demand for vessels to carry fuel and consumer goods has outstripped supply.

WIKA, CHINESE CO TO BUILD POWER PLANT IN EAST KALIMANTAN
Jakarta (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - State-owned construction company PT Wijaya Karya (JSX:WIKA) said it had agreed with the Chengda Engineering Corp. of China to build a coal-fired power plant in East Kalimantan.
Wika and Chengda had formed a consortium with a share split of 51:49 to build the 130-megawatt power plant in Kutai Kartanegara, at a cost of Rp1.4 trillion (US$155 million), the newspaper Investor Daily said.
The two signed an engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract last weekend, Wika President Bintang Perbowo told the newspaper.
Construction would start this year and be completed in 2010.

VIETNAM INVESTS US$315 MLN IN NEW HYDRO-ELECTRIC PROJECTS
Kon Tum, Vietnam (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Kon Tum province in Vietnam's Central Highlands has so far built about 70 small and medium hydro-electric projects with a total investment capital of 5 trillion VND (US$315 million).
Ten projects began construction in the first six months of this year at a total cost of 2.8 trillion VND.
The Dak Psi Hydro-electric Development Investment Company committed 600 billion VND to build four plants with a total capacity of 36 megawatts in the build-own-operate form.
Two of these are expected to generate power by 2010.

BHP BILLITON STARTS FIRST PRODUCTION ON NEPTUNE OIL OPERATION
Melbourne (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - BHP Billiton Ltd (ASX:BHP), Australia's biggest oil and gas producer, has started first production from the $A1.16 billion ($US1.12 billion) Neptune oil operation in the Gulf of Mexico, more than six months later than originally scheduled.
The 50,000 barrel per day facility was originally expected to be in production by the end of December, but that date was deferred until the end of March.
"The start-up of the Neptune project after several years of drilling, construction, and with the recent remediation work, is a significant accomplishment for BHP Billiton," petroleum chief executive Michael Yeager said in a statement.

S KOREA'S STX SHIPBUILDING WINS US$117.3 MLN ORDER
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - South Korean shipyard the STX Shipbuilding Co. (KSE:067250) said Monday it had won an order worth 122.3 billion won (US$117.3 million) from a European shipping company to build two bulk carriers.
The deal called on STX Shipbuilding to deliver the vessels by April 2011, the local shipbuilder said in a regulatory filing. STX Shipbuilding did not disclose the name of the European company.

HYUNDAI HEAVY INDUSTRIES TO INVEST $US2 BLN IN CHINA
Beijing (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Hyundai Heavy Industries (KSE:09540), the world's leading shipbuilder, will increase investment in the fields of sea transportation logistics, engineering machinery, new energy and airplane for civil use in China with investment to reach $US2 billion in the next five years, according to the company.
The company plans to invest $US50 million to set up an engineering machinery company in Shandong Tai'an.
It has also started to produce solar energy generating equipment in China and is planning to acquire shares of a Sichuan polycrystalline silicon company.

LG COMPLETES CONSTRUCTION OF SOUTH KOREA'S BIGGEST SOLAR PLANT
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - The LG Group (KSE:66570), South Korea's third-largest family-run business conglomerate, said Sunday it had completed the construction of the nation's biggest solar panel plant, as part of the group's strategy to make inroads into the alternative energy market.
The solar plant in Taean county, about 110 kilometers southwest of Seoul, was capable of producing 14 megawatts of electricity a year, equivalent to the demand by some 8,000 homes, LG said.
LG spent 110 billion won (US$105 million) to build the facility.

STATE BANK OF PAKISTAN LAUNCHES 10-YEAR STRATEGY
Karachi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is launching a 10-year Financial Sector Strategy (FSS) to help achieve higher, sustainable economic growth; to develop a dynamic, robust and stronger banking system and to mobilize domestic and foreign resources for private investment.
The plan was unveiled by SBP Governor, Dr Shamshad Akhtar while addressing a Development Finance Conference on 'Expanding Frontiers of Financial Access in Pakistan' organized by SBP on the eve of the 60th Anniversary of the central bank here.
It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani.
"The vision we are articulating will take forward the banking sector to new heights, building on the outstanding performance of the sector in 4-5 years," he said.

VIETNAM IMPORT-EXPORT BANK OFFERS EXCHANGE RATE INSURANCE
Hanoi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - The Vietnam Import-Export Bank (Eximbank) announced on July 3 that it will use VND2 trillion ($US118.7 million) to provide exchange rate insurance and credit support for importers and exporters.
The support and insurance will be made through the banks credit products and exchange rate insurance tools.
Eximbank has pledged to introduce the optimal solutions to importers and exporters to help them increase their competitiveness and develop their business, General Director Truong Van Phuoc said.
Eximbank is currently the largest commercial joint stock bank in Vietnam, with capital of more than VND12.6 trillion.

Source:
Business in Asia Today - July 7, 2008
published by Asia Pulse

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Sports: Olympics artist Wyland begins 'Green' wall of China Project

6,500 meter long mural in Beijing with children from around the world raises support for children, environment, and 'Green Olympics'

Beijing (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -

WHAT: Renowned environmental artist Wyland, who began his mission to create 100 giant murals of marine life around the world more than 27 years ago, will complete the landmark project in the lead up to the Olympic Games in Beijing. With the help of thousands of children from around the globe, the artist will create one of the longest murals in the world, spanning more than 6,500 meters with canvases representing endangered or threatened marine wildlife from 205 nations. Joining Wyland in the effort will be renowned Chinese environmental artist Xikun Yuan. The project is a featured event of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Cultural Festival to promote the Green Olympics.

WHERE: Jin Tai Museum, 1 Nongzhan South Road, Chaoyang Park, Beijing

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, July 7 - July 21, 2008. (Opening ceremony, 10 a.m., July 7 / Dedication ceremony 5 p.m., July 27).

BACKGROUND: Founded in 1981, the Whaling Wall project is the largest ongoing arts in public places program dedicated to environmental awareness. The murals have set world records for the largest paintings by one person and are seen by an estimated one billion people each year. Children around the world have been invited to join Wyland in painting more than 100 giant canvases, with sections representing the world's coasts, lakes, rivers, streams, and wetlands. The project will celebrate the role of children working together for environmental protection and promote the spirit of the Green Olympics, an international movement to encourage environmental awareness and action through the Olympic Games.

WHO: Laguna Beach, Calif.-based Wyland, 51, is an official artist for the U.S. Olympic Team. The artist commenced the first two giant canvases for "Hands Across the Oceans" at the United Nations Environment Program's International Children's Conference in Stavanger, Norway, June 17-21, with students from 100 countries.

QUICK FACTS
-- Nations, including Russia, Hungary, Brazil, Nepal, and Costa Rica have contributed canvases created in their own countries
-- Images will feature endangered or threatened marine life as included in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List.
-- The Wyland Foundation is a 501c3 non-profit organization that inspires people to care about our marine life and
habitats.

EDITORS:
For a complete press kit, with downloadable photos, visit:
http://www.wylandfoundation.org/index.cfm?mid=9&sid=41
-0-
CONTACT: Wyland Foundation
Steve Creech
+1-949-436-2489
stevec@wylanddesign.com
Benjamin Chen
011-86-13439547456
benchen0811@yahoo.com

Business: New head for food standards Australia New Zealand board

Canberra - Medianet International-AsiaNet/ - A former Commonwealth Ombudsman, Philippa Smith AM, has been appointed as Chair of the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) board.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Jan McLucas, said today Ms Smith would take up the position for four years.

"In agreement with the Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council, I am pleased to announce the appointment of Philippa Smith AM as the new Chair of the FSANZ board," Senator McLucas said.

"Ms Smith has had a high-profile career covering wide-ranging roles including those of Commonwealth Ombudsman, and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia.

"She has a strong governance, accountability and ethics background, which complements her continued involvement at a high level in federal and state health bodies representing health consumer and general consumer issues.

"This background will bring further diversity and expertise to the FSANZ Board."

Senator McLucas also announced that former New Zealand member of Parliament Dianne Yates had been appointed as a new member of the FSANZ board for four years.

Senator McLucas said Ms Yates had extensive experience across issues of international trade, health and consumer affairs.

"Ms Yates has vast experience in government and in voluntary sector governance," Senator McLucas said.

"She was, until very recently, Chair of the New Zealand Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Select Committee, Chair of the Education and Science Select Committee, and was a member of the Health Select Committee.

"Ms Yates has a firm grasp of current debates in science demonstrated through her Human Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill, a scientifically detailed Private Member's Bill introduced and passed through the New Zealand Parliament," Senator McLucas said.

"The new board represents an excellent mix of experience with top people in their fields of expertise.

"This is an exceptionally strong board, which will continue to move us forward in food regulation in Australia and New Zealand.

"It will also maintain the strong representation of public health, food science and technology, human nutrition, international trade and consumer issues on the FSANZ Board."

Senator McLucas took the opportunity to thank the retiring board members for their hard work over the years.

"Rob Knowles and Owen Symmans both made major contributions to food standards in Australia and New Zealand," Senator McLucas said.

Mr Knowles and Mr Symmans have been on the board of FSANZ since its establishment in July 2002.

Senator McLucas commended Mr Knowles leadership as the inaugural Chair of the board.

"Mr Knowles was instrumental in establishing the operation of the board," Senator McLucas said.

"As Chair for six years, Mr Knowles is to be commended for his significant contribution to changes in the food regulatory system, especially with the implementation of the Council of Australian Governments reforms."

As a board member for two terms, Mr Symmans contribution has also been significant.

"His experience and knowledge of primary industry, having worked for Federated Farmers of New Zealand, the government and the dairy and meat industries, has been of great assistance, particularly during the initial phase of the new food regulatory regime," Senator McLucas said.

FSANZ is the food regulatory authority in Australia and New Zealand. It develops food standards for both countries on behalf of the Australia and New Zealand Food Regulation Ministerial Council, under the Food Standards Australia New Zealand Act 1991.

Food standards are developed to protect the public and to provide information to consumers as well as supporting industry.

A full list of members and details of their backgrounds is below. Ms Philippa Smith is currently the Director of the Australian Institute of Public Health and the Vet Science Foundation. She is also the Chair of the Community and Ethics Committee, "45 up" Health Study Sax Institute. She has had a high profile career covering wide ranging roles including that of Commonwealth Ombudsman, and Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia. Ms Smith also has a strong governance, accountability and ethics background.
Ms Smith has wide experience in dealing with complex issues and with diverse stakeholder groups across government, regulatory bodies, industry, consumer affairs and community groups.

Mr Steve McCutcheon was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of FSANZ. Mr McCutcheon has a B.Ec (Sydney) and Graduate Diploma of Public Law (ANU). He previously was the Executive Manager of the Product Integrity Animal and Plant Health Division, Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry. He joined that Department in 1987 and has served in various roles as Assistant Director, Director and Manager and has been a Member of the Australian Government Senior Executive Service for the past nine years. During this time he led the team that developed the new food regulatory framework for Australia and New Zealand under the auspices of the Council of Australian Governments and has led the Australian delegations to the Codex Alimentarius Commission and Office of Economic and Community Development.

Ms Dianne Yates is currently the Chair of the New Zealand Education and Science Select Committee. She has a wealth of experience in international trade, health and consumer affairs as well as extensive experience in government and in voluntary sector governance. She has, until very recently, been Chair of the Foreign Affairs Defence and Trade Select Committee and was
formerly a member of the Health Select Committee. Ms Yates also has strong links with the New Zealand primary sector due to her long involvement with the Waikato farming community. This involvement attuned her to issues within her local (Waikato) community as well as across science, health, trade and community building issues from a national perspective.

Dr Laurence Eyres has expertise in food science. His present research and professional speciality is quality assurance and research and development of food products, particularly oils and fats, at the University of Auckland. He has worked in industry for over 30 years and brings a food technology, industry and New Zealand perspective to the Board.

Ms Hikihiki Pihema is currently the Senior Dietitian at Gisborne Hospital, Tairawhiti District Health, Gisborne, New Zealand. She is a Maori dietitian with 32 years experience in a range of clinical, administration, management, community, public health, Maori health, education and policy settings within New Zealand. In 1994, Ms Pihema was awarded the New Zealand Dietetic Associations (NZDA) highest honor, the Award of Excellence in Nutrition Education, for her involvement in the provision of nutrition education to Maori people. Ms Pihema is also a past President of the NZDA and has assisted in strengthening the collaborative links between the NZDA and the Dietitians Association of Australia.

Dr Pamela Williams has a broad knowledge of Australian consumer rights and consumer affairs policy. She lectured on consumer rights and responsibilities at several institutions, including Deakin University. Dr Williams is honorary secretary and health advisor to the National Council of Women of Victoria, chairs the Community Advisory Committee of Southern Health and the Steering Committee for Consumer Recruitment, Development and Support at Southern Integrated Cancer Service.

Dr Katrine Baghurst has been involved in research and in translation of research to practice in the nutrition field in both Australia and New Zealand over the past 30 years, notably at the CSIRO Human Nutrition Division.

Her extensive experience makes her a specialist in relation to determining food choice, consumer needs, current dietary patterns in the community and nutritional and food education.

Professor Baghurst is a member of the National Health Committee of the NHMRC and is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Medicine, University of Adelaide and currently works as a Nutrition Consultant.

Dr John Craven is a veterinarian with post-graduate qualifications in microbiology and pathology. His research interests have primarily been in the areas of identifying the causes of neonatal diarrhoea in animals and in preventing the spread of food poisoning organisms from animals to people. He has been Director of the central Victorian veterinary diagnostic and research laboratory and held other senior positions in the Victorian Department of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (now Department of Primary Industries). Dr Craven was, for seven years, a Portfolio Manager for the Dairy Research and Development Corporation and is currently Director of Terip Solutions Pty Ltd. He has considerable experience in working with rural communities to improve agricultural productivity and sustainability by development and subsequent adoption of technology.

Dr Michele Allan is General Manager for Risk and Sustainability at Amcor Limited. Other positions she has held are Interim Chief Executive Officer Tasmanian Bioinformatics Centre of Excellence, General Manager Bioscience and Technology Bonlac Foods and Corporate Quality and Environment Manager- Kraft Foods Limited. She is also a board member within Patties Foods Limited. Dr Allan has strong leadership experience across many facets of the food industry. Her areas of expertise include food science, food allergy, medical science, food safety, and biotechnology.

Dr Peter Williams has a strong background in public health, food science, food allergy, human nutrition and food safety. Dr Williams is an Associate Professor in the School of Health Science in the Department of Biomedical Science at Wollongong University and leads the regulatory affairs work of the National Centre of Excellence in Functional Foods. Before his employment at Wollongong, he was the Director of Scientific and Consumer Affairs at Kelloggs for three years and previously worked as the Chief Dietitian and Food Services Manager at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. Dr Williams served a two-year term as President of the Dietitians Association of Australia from 2001, has served on NHMRC working parties for the review of Dietary Guidelines for Australia and the review of recommended nutrient intakes, and has been a member of the steering committee for the Heart Foundations Pick the Tick program.

Mr Peter Milne has worked all his life in the Australian cattle industry and managed Cracow Station in Central Queensland for many years. He has been active in rural industry organisations and involved in training, industrial relations, on-farm QA, R&D and marketing. He was Chairman of the Red Meat Advisory Council in 2001, on the Executive of the National Farmers Federation for four years, and President of the Cattle Council of Australia until November 2001. He is a member of the National Institute of Accountants and a Fellow of The Taxation Institute of Australia.

Mr Peter Boyden is an internationally experienced CEO with extensive general management and marketing experience gained in consumer foods businesses in Australia, UK, the Netherlands and Greece. His most recent roles were as Managing Director and regional Board member of the Unilever Australasian foods business and a Board member of the Australian Food and Grocery
Council. He currently acts as a business mentor for senior executives. His areas of responsibility have included the management of consumer marketing, product and packaging development, food production and general management.

Media contact:Mark Davis, Office of Senator McLucas - +61 417 684 096
Lydia Buchtmann, FSANZ - +61 411 268 525

SOURCE: Senator the Hon Jan McLucas, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health and Ageing

Energy: Abu Dhabi opens nominations for Zayed Future Energy Prize

Abu Dhabi, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - 2007 Nobel Laureate Dr. Rajendra Kumar Pachauri and Masdar CEO, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber today announced the official call for nominations and submissions for the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP), an international awards program to recognize individuals, companies, organizations, and NGO's who are leading the global search for future energy solutions.

Named after the UAE's Founding Father late HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Zayed Future Energy Prize was launched in January this year at the inaugural World Future Energy Summit by HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, to encourage innovations in the field of clean energy and sustainable development. The prize is a Masdar initiative, which is Abu Dhabi's landmark program to develop sustainable solutions to meet the world's future energy demand.

The winner and finalists of the first Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) will be announced at the World Future Energy Summit on January, 19th 2009. The winner will receive US$1.5 million and two finalists will receive US$350,000 each to take their ideas and ambitions forward.

The jury, who will be responsible for selecting the winners, was also announced today and includes some of the world's leading experts in future energy and climate change. The full jury includes: Dr. Rajendra Kumar Pachauri, Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and Chairman of the Jury for ZFE; HE Olafur Grimsson, President of Iceland; HE Khaled Irani, Environment Minister of Jordan; HE Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar); Lord John Browne, Managing Director, Riverstone Holdings; Lord Norman Foster, Founder and Chairman, Foster + Partners and Jeremy Rifkin, President of the Foundation on Economic Trends.

"Climate change is one of the most significant challenges we face today. Over the past two decades we have seen some incredible advancements in the development of alternate sources of energy, but there is still a long road ahead. The Zayed Future Energy Prize will be an important symbol for creating future energy choices, as it will be honoring the contributions of energy pioneers and inspiring others to seek and create innovative solutions for a sustainable future," said Dr. R.K. Pachauri, Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and Chairman of the Jury for ZFEP.

"In establishing the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP), Abu Dhabi honors and continues HH Sheikh Zayed's environmental legacy and advocacy for sustainable development. This vision is for a new energy future, whereby the world has access to energy that is sustainable, accessible, and affordable. This can be achieved by driving the best minds to explore science and technology, and develop evolutionary solutions," added Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of Masdar and Director General of ZFEP.

A dual language, Arabic and English website was designed specifically for the prize and is now live. The website, www.zayedfutureenergyprize.com, will be a focal point for information and updates on The Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) and will be a portal for entering nominations and submissions.

Nominations and Submissions for the Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) will be open until July 31, 2008 and September 30, 2008, respectively.

The Zayed Future Energy Prize (ZFEP) is the preeminent award in field of clean energy supported by the Government of Abu Dhabi and announced at the World Future Energy Summit in 2008. It recognizes and aspires individuals, organizations and companies--making contributions in clean energy research, engineering, theoretical advancement, and/or in the areas public policy and public awareness. Projects and innovations in one or more of the following fields are eligible for nomination:
-- Renewable and sustainable energy
-- Efficient use of traditional sources of energy
-- Conservation
-- Sustainable energy policy
-- Communication and public awareness.

The selection process for the Prize is modeled on the Nobel Prize. The finalists will be selected by global experts in clean energy. The winner will be awarded a prize of $1.5 million and the two finalists will be awarded a $350,000 each.

About Masdar

The Masdar Initiative is Abu Dhabi's multi-faceted, multi-billion dollar investment in the development and commercialization of innovative technologies in renewable, alternative and sustainable energies as well as sustainable design. Masdar is driven by the Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (ADFEC), a wholly owned company of the government of Abu Dhabi through the Mubadala Development Company. In January 2008, Abu Dhabi announced it will invest $15 billion in Masdar, the largest single government investment of its kind. For more information about the Masdar Initiative, please visit www.masdaruae.com.

Media Contacts:
Middle East & North Africa
Americas & Asia Pacific
Zarmineh Rab

Michael Iacovella
Corporate Communications Manager
Edelman PR Worldwide
Masdar

Tel: +1-212-704-8254
Tel: +971-2-6988049

Fax: +1-212-704-0230
Fax: +971-2-6988123

Mob: +1-917-532-7977
Mob: +971-5-4502315

Michael.iacovella@edelman.com
zrab@masdar.ae
Mohammed Kharroubi

UK & Europe
Asda'a Public Relations

Laura Misselbrook
Tel: +971-4-3344550

Edelman PR Worldwide
Fax: +971-4-3344556

Tel: +44 (0)20 3047 2208
m.kharroubi@asdaa.com
Fax: +44 (0)20 3047 2507
laura.misselbrook@edelman.com

SOURCE Masdar
CONTACT: Middle East & North Africa,
Zarmineh Rab,
Corporate Communications Manager of Masdar,
+971-2-6988049,
Fax: +971-2-6988123,
Mobile: +971-5-4502315,
zrab@masdar.ae,

or

Mohammed Kharroubi,
Asda'a Public Relations,
+971-4-3344550,
Fax: +971-4-3344556,
m.kharroubi@asdaa.com;

Americas & Asia Pacific,
Michael Iacovella,
Edelman PR Worldwide,
+1-212-704-8254,
Fax: +1-212-704-0230,
Mobile: +1-917-532-7977,
Michael.iacovella@edelman.com;

UK & Europe,
Laura Misselbrook,
Edelman PR Worldwide,
+44 (0)20 3047 2208,
Fax: +44 (0)20 3047 2507,

laura.misselbrook@edelman.com
Web site: http://www.masdaruae.com

http://www.zayedfutureenergyprize.com

Fund/Bank: Discover Financial Services opens data subsidiary in Shanghai

Discover Financial Services opens data subsidiary in Shanghai, China new operations center strengthens company's expanding analytics operations

Riverwoods, ILL. & Shanghai, China - Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) today announced the opening of a new subsidiary, Discover Information Technology (Shanghai) Ltd., in the People's Republic of China, to support Discover's data analysis and modeling operations.

The new operation in Shanghai's Huangpu District will house a staff of 45 analysts. Discover plans to double that workforce by 2009.

"Our new subsidiary supports Discover's rapid investment in our risk-assessment abilities," said James Panzarino, Discover's chief credit risk officer.

"Our new Shanghai employees have sophisticated training in mathematics and other quantitative subjects.

"They join our existing team of some of the best analytical talent anywhere."

Discover plans to host a grand opening at the new office on July 15.

"This effort represents a wonderful opportunity for Discover and Shanghai together," said Fude Wang, general manager of the new operation.

"Discover is able to hire top-notch area talent to build state-of-the-art information-based decision models and tools for our business, while Shanghai receives a new employer offering advanced opportunities in the financial services sector."

The opening of the technology center is Discover's latest foothold in China, where the company already has a long-term agreement with China Unionpay.

In May 2007, Discover opened the Discover Financial Services Representative Office in Shanghai to support the Unionpay alliance, which gives Discover Network cardholders access to China Unionpay's merchant locations and ATMs across Mainland China.

It also allows China Unionpay cardholders access to ATMs, and POS terminals at retail locations across the U.S. on Discover's PULSE network.

About Discover Financial Services Discover Financial Services (NYSE: DFS) is a leading credit card issuer and electronic payment services company with one of the most recognized brands in U.S. financial services.

The company operates the Discover Card, America's cash rewards pioneer. Since its inception in 1986, the company has become one of the largest card issuers in the United States.

Its payments businesses consist of the Discover Network, with millions of merchant and cash access locations; PULSE, one of the nation's leading ATM/debit networks; and Diners Club International, a global payments network with acceptance in 185 countries and territories.

For more information, visit www.discoverfinancial.com.
Discover Financial ServicesJon Drummond+1 224-405-1888

Business: Arrow and Cree host lighting solutions seminar in India

Hong Kong, (ANTARA News/Xinhua-PRNewswire -AsiaNet) - Arrow Asia Pac Ltd., a business unit of Arrow Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: ARW), announced that it will co-host lighting solution seminars in New Delhi on July 15 and Mumbai in India on July 17 with Cree, Inc., a market leader in LED solid-state lighting components.

"The need for more efficient, energy-conscious lighting is why we are working with an industry leader, such as Cree, to offer world-class technology and ground-breaking LED lighting solutions in this market," said CC Lim, vice president of marketing for Arrow Asia Pac.

"The seminar will provide designers and manufacturers of lighting products a comprehensive overview of Crees LED products and Arrows total lighting solutions," said Peng Gun Goh, director of lighting business development for Arrow Asia Pac. "Arrow has a dedicated lighting team to provide customers with technical and sales support and help them accelerate design and production of high-brightness and cost-efficient LED lighting products."

Seminar Schedule and Venue:
Time & Date: 10am- 3:30pm, Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Venue: Jaypee Vasant Continental, New Delhi
Time & Date: 10am- 3:30pm, Thursday, July 17, 2008
Venue: VITS, Andheri-Kurla Road, International Airport Zone, Mumbai
For registration and more information, please go to http:/www.arrowasia.com.hk/event_registration/ .

About Arrow Asia Pac

A business unit of Arrow Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: ARW), Arrow Asia Pac is one of Asia-Pacifics leading electronic component distributors. In addition to its regional headquarters in Hong Kong, Arrow Asia Pac operates 52 sales offices, four primary distribution centers and 13 local warehousing facilities in 12 countries/territories across Asia.

Providing a full range of semiconductors, passive, electromechanical and connector products from over 200 leading international and local suppliers, Arrow Asia Pac serves more than 10,000 original equipment and contract manufacturers and commercial customers in the Asia-Pacific region. Visit http:/www.arrowasia.com .

About Cree, Inc.

Cree is a market-leading innovator and manufacturer of semiconductors and devices that enhance the value of solid-state lighting, power and communications products by significantly increasing their energy performance and efficiency. Key to Crees market advantage is its world-class materials expertise in SiC and GaN for chips and packaged devices that can handle more power in a smaller space while producing less heat than other available technologies, materials and products.

For product specifications, please refer to http://www.cree.com .

Media Contact:
Ray Leung
Marketing Communications Director
Arrow Asia Pac Ltd.
Tel: +852-2484-2484
Email: marcom.asia@arrowasia.com
Grace Kung
Marketing Communications Manager
Tel: +852-2484-2682
Email: grace.kung@arrowasia.com
SOURCE Arrow Asia Pac Ltd.

Entertainment: Tokyo's Imperial Hotel hosts 5th annual World Jazz Festival August 12-13

With Korean Sax Star Lee Jung Sik At the Osaka Imperial August 15th and 16th

Tokyo - Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ - The Imperial Hotel in Tokyo will host its hotel-wide live jazz event once again for two full days this summer, on August 12th and 13th, the fifth year of this event, held throughout the hotel premises, where guests purchase one-day tickets for access to any of the day's performances. This year popular Korean sax player Lee Jung Sik will also appear.

The performances will be held daily from 2:00 p.m. through 8:30 p.m. in various spaces around the hotel, and guests who purchase a daily Yen 15,000 ticket are free to move from venue to venue as the performances are underway. Tickets include two drinks and a canape. A two-day ticket is Yen 26,000.

Among the global collection of over 100 artists this year will be the Juilliard All-Stars from the Juilliard School from New York and Korean sax player Lee Jung Sik. Top Japanese artists include Eiji Kitamura, Norio Maeda, Yosuke Yamashita, Peggy Hayama, Yasuko Agawa, Naoko Terai, Malta, the Sachiko Yasui piano trio, "Swingy" Okuda and the Blue Sky Orchestra, and numerous other leading talents from the Japanese world of jazz. The event goes on to the Imperial Hotel, Osaka, August 15th and 16th.

In conjunction with the festival, The Imperial in Tokyo and Osaka will offer special options for Jazz Complex 2008 guests which include accommodations, breakfast and a one-day ticket to the Complex for two persons, with double occupancy rates in Tokyo on the nights of August 12th and 13th and in Osaka on the nights of August 15th and 16th varying from Yen 61,000 per room per night in Tokyo and from Yen 56,000 per room per night in Osaka.

This summer the Imperial Hotel is also offering a package plan that includes accommodation for two persons at Yen 33,500 including all-you-can-eat buffet breakfasts, July 1st to September 30th.

All rates include consumption tax and service charges. Applicable accommodation tax will be added to room charges.
Reservations through http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp or by phone to 813-3504-1111 (Tokyo) or 816-6881-1111 (Osaka).

Source: Imperial Hotel, Ltd.
Contact:
Mari Miyazaki
Public Relations
Imperial Hotel, Ltd.
Phone: +81-3-3539-8014
Fax: +81-3-3504-1474
E-mail: m.miyazaki@imperialhotel.co.jp
URL: http://www.imperialhotel.co.jp

Business: VASCO opens subsidiary in Mumbai

Local Indian staff has been hired in order to fuel VASCO's growth in India's booming banking and enterprise security markets

Oakbrook Terrace, Ill and Zurich - PRNewswire-AsiaNet/ - VASCO Data Security International, Inc. (Nasdaq: VDSI) (http://www.vasco.com), a leading software security company specializing in authentication products, today announced that it will reinforce its presence in Asia by opening a subsidiary in Mumbai, India. VASCO received the official Certificate of Incorporation of VASCO Data Security (India) Private Limited at the end of Q2 2008.

The new subsidiary will be responsible for sales and support in India. Shortly, VASCO hired its first local staff, responsible for delivering support to VASCO's Indian customers and prospects. The Indian team will report to VASCO's regional hub in Sydney, Australia.

In every large market, VASCO follows a three-step approach to success. In a first phase, VASCO aims at winning large customers in the banking sector. Secondly, VASCO adds the Enterprise Security sector as a focus to its regional approach.
In this phase, VASCO looks for local partners and local employees. In a third phase, VASCO opens a local office.

"India is an important market for VASCO. The booming economy, the growth of the service sector and the highly educated workforce brings new business opportunities to VASCO.
In India, VASCO already counts among its customers a number of leading banks. Now, we are poised on growing our market position in the Enterprise Security sector and reinforce our growth in the financial sector. We are convinced that our local presence and team will further enhance our presence in the Indian market," says Jan Valcke, VASCO's President and COO.

Contact and address information about VASCO's Indian office will be announced shortly.

About VASCO:

VASCO is a leading supplier of strong authentication and e-signature solutions and services specializing in Internet Security applications and transactions. VASCO has positioned itself as a global software company for Internet Security serving a customer base of close to 7,100 companies in more than 100 countries, including more than 1000 international financial institutions. VASCO's prime markets are the financial sector, enterprise security, e-commerce and e-government.

Forward Looking Statements:

Statements made in this news release that relate to future plans, events or performances are forward-looking statements.
Any statement containing words such as "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," and similar words, is forward-looking, and these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations.
Consequently, actual results could differ materially from the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements.

Reference is made to the Company's public filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission for further information regarding the Company and its operations.

For more information contact:
VASCO: Jochem Binst, +32 2 609 97 00, jbinst at vasco.com
SOURCE VASCO Data Security International, Inc.
CONTACT: Jochem Binst of VASCO Data Security International,
Inc.,
+32 2 609 97 00,
jbinst@vasco.com
Web site: http://www.vasco.com

Travel: V Australia announces 2nd Trans-Pacific route direct Los Angeles - Brisbane flights

From the 'City Of Angels' to 'Sunny Queensland' for $999* return

Brisbane - Medianet International-AsiaNet/ -
* V Australia celebrates Independence Day early by announcing direct flights between Los Angeles and Brisbane, Australia. New flights to offer travelers freedom of choice from March 1, 2009 - $999* return economy fares on sale at www.vaustralia.com.

Australia's newest international airline, V Australia, has announced it will launch non-stop flights between Los Angeles and Brisbane, Queensland Australia, from early next year giving American travelers direct access to Australias renowned Sunshine State. Queensland is home to some of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders including The Great Barrier Reef and the heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest.

Los Angeles-Brisbane is the second route to be announced for V Australia which will take off on its inaugural flight between Los Angeles and Sydney on December 15, 2008*.

V Australia will launch three flights a week between Los Angeles and Brisbane from March 1, 2009*. The carrier will operate Boeing 777-300ER aircraft configured to a three class cabin offering International Business Class, International Premium Economy Class and International Economy class.

V Australia Executive General Manager, Scott Swift, said, "We are excited to be linking the City of LA directly with Brisbane city, the second Australian destination to be added to the V Australia network. This will be tremendous for US travelers keen to experience tropical Queensland. Importantly, this new flight will also provide another direct link from Australia to Los Angeles, equating to approximately 1000 additional seats per week in the market from Brisbane alone, which will increase visitors to North America and help to boost business and tourism opportunities."

V Australia will direct its third 777-300ER aircraft to the Los Angeles-Brisbane route and carried out extensive research before deciding to commit the resources to operating a second trans-Pacific flight directly out of LA to Brisbane. Only one other airline currently operates direct services between the two cities, making it ripe for competition.

Scott Swift continued, "LA-Sydney may be the busiest route between Los Angeles and Australia but V Australia is also eager to give the Los Angeles-Brisbane route a red hot go and we are keen to help ramp up visitor numbers to California and beyond."

Los Angeles Mayor, Antonia R. Villaraigosa, said, "I am delighted that V Australia has identified the Brisbane-LA route as having strong potential in terms of passenger growth and we welcome V Australias vote of confidence in Los Angeles and the greater state of California."

Mayor Villaraigosa added, "Providing direct access for Australian travelers to LA is going to be critical in luring more visitors to experience the attractions of this great city and then travel onwards to other world famous Californian and USA destinations."

V Australia will initially introduce three direct flights a week between LA and Brisbane on a Wednesday, Friday and Sunday and is confident its attractive fares, convenient direct flight and refreshing product and people will prove a successful formula.

To kick off the new service V Australia today announced 1776 economy seats on sale to 19 destinations in Australia via Brisbane or Sydney for the return fare of $999* for the round trip inclusive of all taxes (including September 11 security fee) and charges of approximately $320 (available only on the internet). The sale fare is available from 9.00pm PDT today until sold out.

Every day return economy fares will start from $1739* return which is 15 percent lower than the current lowest available published fare on the route for the same travel period (as at 9.00am AEST Friday July 4, 2008).

For V Australia Airlines bookings, log on to www.vaustralia.com, call 1-800-444-0260 or contact your local travel agent.

* Subject to Regulatory approval. Launch fares are on sale from 9.00pm PDT on Thursday July 3, 2008 to July 10, 2008 or until sold out, for travel between March 1 April 7, 2009 and April 29 May 31, 2009. Fares are economy round trip fares and include taxes, fees and charges (including the September 11 Security Fee). Fares are subject to availability and may not be available on all flights. Fares are available only for instant purchase online and are non refundable. No stopovers are permitted. Tickets purchased through the Guest Contact Centre cost $15 (USD) more. Flights due to commence March 1, 2009.

For further information:
Heather Jeffery General Manager Public Affairs Virgin Blue Group of Airlines +61 412 922 122
heather.jeffery@virginblue.com.au
Amanda Bolger Manager Public & Media Relations Virgin Blue Group of Airlines +61 402 137 071
amanda.bolger@virginblue.com.au
SOURCE: Virgin Australia Airlines/ V Australia

Business: Vale announces global offering

Rio de Janeiro, (ANTARA News/PRNewswire-AsiaNet) - Companhia Vale do Rio Doce (Vale) announces that, subject to market conditions and receipt of final approval from the Brazilian securities regulator (Comissao de Valores Mobiliarios), it plans to launch a global offering of up to 256,926,766 common shares and 164,402,799 preferred shares (not including any exercise of the underwriters over-allotment option) on or near July 4, 2008.

The global offering will consist of a registered offering in Brazil and an international offering, which will include a registered offering in the United States. Investors in the international offering may elect to receive their shares in the form of American Depositary Shares (ADSs). The closings of the Brazilian offering and the international offering will be conditioned upon each other.

Further information about the offers will be contained in the offering documents.

Existing shareholders of Vale that are resident in Brazil will have the right to subscribe for shares in the Brazilian offering on a priority basis. Our principal shareholder, Valepar, has decided to subscribe the number of common shares required to maintain its proportionate interest in our common shares following our capital increase.

As previously announced, Vale will use the net proceeds of this offering for general corporate purposes, which may include financing its program of organic growth based on its US$59 billion investment plan, strategic acquisitions and increased financial flexibility.

In connection with this offering, Vale has applied to list and trade its common and preferred ADSs on Euronext Paris. Vale's common shares and preferred shares are listed on the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange, and its common ADSs and the preferred ADSs are listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

Credit Suisse Securities (USA) LLC is acting as lead underwriter.

Vale has an effective registration statement on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. If the offering proceeds, copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement for the international offering, when available, may be obtained from Credit Suisse Prospectus Department, One Madison Avenue, New York, NY, 10010, +1 800 221 1037, or by visiting EDGAR on the SEC Web site at www.sec.gov. Before you invest, you should read the preliminary prospectus supplement and other documents that Vale has filed and will file with the SEC for more complete information about Vale and the offering.

SOURCE Companhia Vale do Rio Doce
CONTACT: Roberto Castello Branco,
roberto.castello.branco@vale.com, or Alessandra Gadelha,
alessandra.gadelha@vale.com, or Patricia Calazans,
patricia.calazans@vale.com, or Theo Penedo,
theo.penedo@vale.com, or Marcus Thieme, marcus.thieme@vale.com,
or Tacio Neto, tacio.neto@vale.com, all of Vale,
+55-21-3814-4540
Web site: http://www.cvrd.com.br
http://www.vale.com

Technology: Curam Software expands footprint in ANZ, announces new managing

Dirk Klein brings more than 25 years of experience to support Curam Software's growth in Australia and New Zealand

Herndon, Va. (BUSINESS WIRE) - Cram Software, the leading provider of Social Enterprise Management (SEM) software solutions, today announced Dirk Klein as its new Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand.

Klein joins the Curam Software team with more than 25 of years of industry experience, primarily working with governments in the greater Asia Pacific region. His appointment underscores Curam Software's commitment to providing its market-leading SEM solutions to Australia and New Zealand and to meeting the challenges facing social services organizations that provide for the long term welfare of children and families in eed, as well as rehabilitation and compensation services that lead to positive outcomes for injured workers.

As the new Managing Director for Australia and New Zealand, Klein will be responsible for overall business operations, customer service, sales, and business development. "There is enormous potential for Curam Software in this region and I see a wealth of opportunities for us to achieve our key business objectives. There has already been such a great acceptance of the Curam solutions and I am excited to work with our customers who have been successful pioneers in transforming their businesses. It's a very exciting time to be a part of Curam in Australia and New Zealand," said Klein.

"Over the past two years, Curam Software has substantially increased our presence in the ANZ market increasing the number of employees and contract wins in the region," said Ernie Connon, president, Curam Software. "We continue to invest in the development of our management team, reflecting our continued growth and commitment to Australia and New Zealand. Dirk Klein's in-depth industry knowledge and experience will assist in maintaining Curam's momentum to more readily support governments in this geography."

Prior to joining Curam Software, Klein served as State General Manager, Australian Capital Territory (ACT) and the Federal Sector, for Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand. In that role, he was responsible for business development, including the sale of Fujitsu lines of business, as well as acting as the primary location manager and public representative of the company in the ACT and to the Australian Federal Government. Klein also previously served as the Business Development Manager, Federal Government for Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) Australia. As the Business Development Manager, Klein was responsible for increasing revenue through the development of new business opportunities.

Curam Software's growth in ANZ follows a series of contract awards and growth patterns worldwide. Notable customer implementations in that region include the South Australia Work Cover (SAWC), Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) of Australia, Disability Services Queensland (DSQ) of Australia, and the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) of New Zealand.

SEM is an outcomes-focused category of enterprise software that leverages COTS applications to transform as well as modernize social security and social services agencies. SEM provides comprehensive enterprise eligibility IT solutions ? crossing agency boundaries, simplifying policies, and integrating with existing technology. SEM fosters holistic, convenient services for citizens as well as provides screening for needs and referrals to community-based resources.

About Curam Software: Curam Software is the leading provider of Social Enterprise Management (SEM) software solutions, delivering best-in-class applications for social enterprises globally including, health and human services, workforce services, and social security organizations. Using the Curam Business Application Suite agencies can immediately reap the benefits of client-centric business processes and an outcomes-driven integrated service delivery model. The Curam Business Application Suite, underpinned by the Curam Enterprise Framework, combines the advantages of commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) software, an enterprise platform and service oriented architecture with the business and technical flexibility required to allow agencies to implement solutions to meet their strategic objectives. Curam Software is headquartered in Dublin, Ireland with offices throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and India. For more information, visit www.curamsoftware.com.

O'Keeffe & Company, Inc.Erin Leahy, 703-883-9000 ext.
139eleahy@okco.com

Business: Concorde Hotels & Resorts news summary

This Summer, The Hotel Concorde La Fayette is pampering its guests visiting from Asia and the Middle-East

Paris (BUSINESS WIRE) - Located between La D?fense business district and the renowned Avenue des Champs-Elys?es, the Hotel Concorde La Fayette is offering an uninterrupted Oriental room service menu from midday to 6:00 am, all summer long. The selection on offer includes taboule, humus, kofta, grilled lamb chops, baklava, a true festival of delights to treat yourself at any time of day within the privacy of your own room. At the La Fayette restaurant, you may choose between two menus, buffet or ? la carte, to enjoy the delectation of varied assortments such as mezze, oriental platter, shish kebab and typical sweets and cakes. Snacks are available in the Bar La Fayette, where you will find a selection of oriental-flavoured club sandwiches. As for those who wish to enjoy aperitif while surveying the city from above, the Panoramic Bar offers oriental finger delicacies with all their drinks.

The Hotel Concorde La Fayette is just as concerned with satisfying its guests visiting from Asia, by offering all year round a breakfast that has been specially designed for them. On the menu: miso soup, Japanese-cooked rice, noodles, grilled salmon, Japanese omelette, daikon, candied ginger, marinated cucumber, soya sauce as well as sesame seeds.

BERNARD GRANIER HAS BEEN APPOINTED GENERAL MANAGER OF THE HOTEL CONCORDE LA FAYETTE, AND DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS, PARIS REGION, FOR CONCORDE HOTELS & RESORTS GROUP Bernard Granier, 59, makes his Parisian comeback and, for the second time in his career, he takes charge of the Hotel Concorde La Fayette, Concorde Hotels & Resorts Group's flagship at Porte Maillot. In addition to this position, he is also appointed Regional Director for the Group's hotel portfolio in Paris, representing close to 2,500 guest rooms and Suites in the city centre.

THE CONCORDE HOTELS & RESORTS GROUP'S PRESS ROOM IS NOW AVAILABLE AT WWW.CONCORDE-HOTELS.COM

Concorde's new "Press Corner" now features a dedicated section of press releases and press kits that allows media to follow the Group's corporate and hotel news with just a few clicks. The RSS function delivers a live, continuous feed of customized Concorde Hotels & Resorts' news. This website component enables users to obtain and monitor news of a specific theme or property, appealing to travelers planning their next trip as well as media seeking Group updates.

These unique services are currently available in a variety of languages including English, French, Spanish, German and Japanese.

The Concorde Hotels & Resorts Group 50 Place de l'Ellipse - Village 5 - CS 70050 - 92081 Paris La Defense Cedex, France www.concorde-hotels.com

Our Pictures Library is now also available on line at http://ibrary.concorde-hotels.com Login concorde Password concorde The Concorde Hotels & Resorts Group, owned by the Groupe du Louvre, offers an exceptional international network of luxury 4 and 5 star hotels, all with unique design and in highly individual settings. The Group owns, manages or represents a portfolio of
33 hotels worldwide, including not only the Hotel de Crillon, Hotel Lutetia and Hotel du Louvre in Paris, but also the legendary Martinez hotel in Cannes. For any further information about the Group and its hotels, please visit our new Internet site www.concorde-hotels.com .

The Concorde Hotels & Resorts GroupVanina Sommer Director, Communications &Marketing ServicesLaure Munsch, Public
Relations Managerlmunsch@concorde-hotels.comTel.
+ 33 (0)1 42 91 44 17

Business in Asia Today - July 4, 2008

AUSTRALIA'S ANZ BANK GETS NOD FROM VIETNAM'S CENTRAL BANK
Hanoi (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - The Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ASX:ANZ) has been granted in principle approval to set up a wholly Vietnam incorporated operation. Following the move, the bank will open at least four new outlets in Vietnam by the end of this year.
The newly incorporated bank will help meet the needs of Vietnam's growing population by offering more products such as mortgage loans, credit cards, car loans and better savings and investments.
ANZ entered Vietnam in 1993 and has branches in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and a representative office in Can Tho Province as well as holding a 13.9 per cent equity in Saigon Securities Incorporation and a 10 per cent stake in Saigon Thuong Tin Commercial Bank.

INDIA'S RELIANCE, GAIL IN BID TO SET UP PETROCHEM UNIT IN QATAR
Mumbai (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Reliance Industries (BSE:500325) and GAIL India (BSE:532155) will next week pitch to Qatar the establishment of a US$1.3 billion mega petrochemical plant in the gas rich nation.
"A joint delegation will visit Qatar on July 7 to discuss possibilities of setting up a mega petrochemical plant in that country," GAIL chairman and managing director U D Choubey said.
Reliance and GAIL had on December 4, 2007 signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly set up a mega gas-based petrochemical plant. "We have now zeored in on Qatar, Iran, Algeria, Nigeria and Russia," Choubey said.
"We are looking at countries that can provide natural gas as feedstock for the unit."

V AUSTRALIA TO BEGIN DIRECT FLIGHTS FROM BRISBANE TO LOS ANGELES
Sydney (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Virgin Blue's (ASX:VBA) off-shoot V Australia has announced it will add an extra service between Brisbane and Los Angeles from next year.
The Brisbane service will operate three times a week with economy fares starting at A$2,087 (US$1,999).
The announcement was welcomed by Queensland's embattled tourism industry which is struggling after the withdrawal of selected Qantas and Jetstar services to the state.
"Providing direct access for US travellers to Brisbane is going to be critical in luring more visitors to experience the attractions of south east Queensland and then travel onwards to other world famous Queensland destinations like Cairns and the Whitsundays via Virgin Blue's domestic flights," Premier Anna Bligh said.

DAEWOO SHIPBUILDING WINS US$2.3 BLN ORDER FOR 16 CONTAINER SHIPS
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering Co. (KSE:042660) today said it has won an order to build 16 container vessels for US$2.33 billion, the industry's largest order to date.
The deal with A.P. Moeller-Maersk of Denmark, the world's largest shipping line, calls on Daewoo Shipbuilding to deliver the vessels by December, 2012, the company said in a statement. The shipbuilder has won orders valued at US$9.83 billion so far this year to build 59 ships, accounting for 56 per cent of its yearly target of US$17.5 billion worth of orders.

US-BASED CLEANWATER INVESTS US$50 MLN IN POWER EQUIPMENT PARK IN INDIA
Vadodara (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - New York-based Clearwater Capital Partners today said it has invested US$50 million in a power equipment park that will be developed by Diamond Power Infrastructure Ltd (BSE: 522163) at Vadala, Maharashtra state. Clearwater has so far invested US$500 million in 39 companies across India, which it considers a safe investment destination due to its legal framework that is absent in China, company's managing partner Robert Petty said here.
He hoped to invest in more companies after operationalising of Indo-US nuclear deal.

S. KOREAN CHEMICAL FIBER FIRM TO BUILD PLANT IN N. KOREAN COMPLEX
Seoul (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Taekwang Industrial Co. (KSE:003240), a leading South Korean chemical fiber company, said Thursday it will build a facility in a joint industrial complex in the North Korean border city of Kaesong to produce acrylic fiber.
The facility, with an annual production capacity of 4,000 tons of the product, is expected to start operation in February next year, marking the first time a major South Korean chemical fiber company has a presence in the Kaesong.
Taekwang, which produces 57,000 tons of acrylic fiber a year in South Korea, is considering a plan to transfer part of its production facilities in the South to the industrial complex, company officials said.

AUSTRALIA'S RFG DOES DEAL TO TAKE DONUT KING FRANCHISE TO CHINA
Sydney (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Food brand manager and franchisor Retail Food Group Ltd (ASX:RFG) has finalised the terms of an agreement with Shanghai-based Mak Brands Ltd to expand its Donut King franchise into China.
The agreement grants Mak Brands exclusive rights to the Donut King franchise and cements an initial licence fee and ongoing royalties.
Mak Brands plans to establish a flagship Donut King outlet on Nanjing Road in Shanghai by the end of 2008.
Additional sites have been identified and by the end of fiscal 2009 it expects to have 10 to 15 outlets within east China.

MORE FULL-TIME EMPLOYEES IN JAPAN WORK 60-PLUS HOURS A WEEK: POLL
Tokyo (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - An influx of workers in non-regular positions may be causing full-time staff to clock more time on the job, according to a Japanese government survey released Thursday.
More than one in five full-time male employees aged 25-44 works more than 60 hours a week, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications' 2007 Labor Force Survey showed.
Employees who log more than 60 hours a week make up 12.7 per cent of the national total of roughly 53 million, up 0.8 percentage point from the 2002 survey.

INDONESIA'S ANTAM TO ACQUIRE 25% OF MARTABE GOLD MINE
Jakarta (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Indonesian miner PT Aneka Tambang (Antam) (JSX:ANTM) is eyeing a 25 per cent stake valued about US$166.25 million in the Martabe gold mine in North Sumatra.
Antam has already signed a MoU with Australia's Oxiana Ltd (ASX:OXR), which owns the gold and silver mine. Under the agreement Antam will buy 10 per cent of the mine with an option to buy 15 per cent more, Antam corporate secretary Bimo Budi Satrio said.
Antam will buy a 10 per cent stake this year and another 10 per cent in 2009, Satrio said, adding that an additional 5 per cent stake will be bought after Oxiana increases the annual production to 9 tons of gold.
The companies plan to establish a joint venture to build and operate business in precious metals and base metals, Antam President Alwin Syah Lubis said.

TAIWAN AGRICULTURE COUNCIL URGES FARMERS TO GROW CORN
Taipei (ANTARA News/Asia Pulse) - Taiwan's government has offered subsidies of NT$45,000 (US$1,475) per hectare Thursday to encourage farmers to grow corn on fallow land so they can earn more and help cope with a growing domestic shortage of feed corn.
The Agriculture and Food Agency, under the Council of Agriculture (COA) said that as the price of grain has shown no sign of falling, now is a good time to cultivate corn.
According to the COA more than 40 local farmers' associations have indicated willingness to join the program.
By offering the subsidy and guaranteed prices for their crops, the Agency hopes farmers will grow corn on about 12,000 hectares, yielding about 60,000 metric tons of feed corn to meet local demand, the officials said.

Source:
Business in Asia Today - July 4, 2008
published by Asia Pulse

COPYRIGHT © 2008

Business: Shanghai fashion designer Qiu Hao wins Woolmark Prize in Paris

Sydney - Medianet International-AsiaNet/ - Broadcast quality footage available: http://medianet.ondeadline.com.au
?page=ViewVideo&id=MNT2008070476423#.

MME Sonia Rykiel, Patron of The Woolmark Prize, today announced Qiu Hao from China will now join design greats Karl Lagerfeld, Yves Saint Laurent, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Romeo Gigli, Dolce & Gabbana and Giorgio Armani in the Woolmark hall of fame, as the 2008 winner of the inaugural Woolmark Prize.

The original wool awards were held between 19541992 by the International Wool Secretariat (IWS). The Woolmark Prize takes up where IWS left off, upholding the original foundations on which the award was built: excellence, innovation and distinction. The aim of todays prize is to underscore the importance of Merino wool to the fashion world by recognising, rewarding and showcasing emerging talents and cutting-edge creativity that emphasises the sensual, sculptural aspects of knit.

Before attending Central Saint Martins College, London, 30 year old Shanghai designer Qiu Hao graduated in interior design at Suzhou University. Since his 2006 debut, Qiu Hao has consistently supplied razor sharp tailoring and smooth deconstruction in a largely monochromatic colour palette. Each collection is balanced by a measure of softness; a curve, a texture, a physical motion that eschews the obvious.

"It is with great pleasure that Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) once again bring the honour and prestige of such an international prize to assist emerging talent so that they may occupy a solid place in the global apparel industry," said Mr Craig Welsh, C.E.O. Australian Wool Innovation. "We see the Woolmark Prize as an opportunity to support the future of design and at the same time, showcase to the world Australian Merino wool at its best and most innovative," said Mr Welsh.

As the winner of the 2008 prize Qiu Hao will receive industry support to the value of 100,000 ($163,000) which is invaluable to an emerging designer. AWI will provide aid and expertise in sourcing material, production, presentation and promotion of a collection. High end Paris boutique, Colette, have agreed to carry exclusive stock of a limited edition garment.

U.S. Vogue Fashion News Feature Director Sally Singer, global fashion expert and 2008 awards judge, said "It's a wonderful time to relaunch The Woolmark Prize; the list of finalists were exceptional and reflects the innovation and rigor that a new generation of designers is investing in their work. Artisanal work in fashion is always going to be synonymous with knitwear and it's the time to buy luxurious things that are made and designed with care." The Woolmark Prize represents the first of many AWI initiatives focused on enhancing the presence and value of the Woolmark portfolio.
Over the next three years AWI will invest over 75.000,000 in relaunching and repositioning the Woolmark brand and establishing Australian merino wool as one of the most exciting fibres available today, unique for its natural, biodegradable and sustainable qualities.

For more information visit: http://www.woolmark.com/prize/Released by: Karyn Westren-Gross, AWI Fashion Communications
Ph: +61-2-8295-3166

SOURCE: Australian Wool Innovation
Image Attachments Links:: http://asianetnews.net/ViewImage.asp?ID=101309
http://asianetnews.net/ViewImage.asp?ID=101310
http://asianetnews.net/ViewImage.asp?ID=101311

Business: Norske Skog sells mill in the Czech Republic

Norske Skog divests the former newsprint mill Norske Skog Steti in the Czech Republic to Mondi. The agreed purchase price reflects the book value of the fixed assets in the company.

Newsprint production at Norske Skog Steti ceased at the end of May this year. All operations in the company have ceased and all employment relationships were terminated at the end of June this year.

The decision to stop the newsprint production at the Steti mill is part of Norske Skog's work to improve its profitability. The fixed costs in the group will be reduced by removing excess capacity and transferring production to other mills with available capacity.

Mondi is currently engaged in production of kraft pulp, kraft paper, containerboard, industrial bags and extrusion coating products at the same industrial site where Norske Skog Steti operated. Mondi will buy most of the production equipment at the former newsprint mill. The agreement includes an option for Norske Skog to move a smaller part of the production equipment to other mills in the group.

Mondi will not resume newsprint production at the former Norske Skog Steti mill and has acquired the site as part of a rationalization of the existing mill site.

The transaction will be carried out by Norske Skogindustrier ASA selling all their shares in Norske Skog Steti a.s. to Mondi Steti a.s. Closing of the transaction is subject to approval from Czech and EU competition authorities, as well as other customary closing conditions for such transactions. The transaction is expected to be completed within 5-7 months.

Oxenøen, 7 July 2008

Norske Skog
Corporate affairs

More information:

Norske Skog:
Vice president corporate affairs
Tom Bratlie
Phone: +47 905 21 904

Mondi:
Bettina Pepeck
Ecker & Partner
Phone: +43 1 59932 53

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