British Ambassador Enjoys Book Expo Thailand And Urges Young People To Read

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19 October 2023, 23:55

British Ambassador to Thailand visits the 28th Book Expo Thailand 2023, praising the event is well organized and vibrant with a great number of visitors.

On October 18, 2023, welcoming by Mr.Suwich Rungwattanapaiboon, president of the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand (PUBAT), and other executives, Mr. Mark Gooding, British Ambassador to Thailand, visited the 28th Book Expo Thailand, which was organized by The Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand (PUBAT) and alliances at Hall 5-7, LG Floor, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center.

The Ambassador enjoyed visiting the event while also visiting the British Embassy’s booth to showcase British literature for the first time in Thailand.

The ambassador said that the embassy decided to participate in the Book Expo Thailand as it is one of the biggest national book fairs in Thailand with many people coming every year.

“At the same time, we are very keen to encourage young people here to read. I want to bring value to British literature from the work of British writers, including classic literature and other British literature that represents values of the UK such as diversity or LGBT and freedom of speech for presenting to the readers to enhance creativity and the way of thinking for young generations,” the ambassador said.

Moreover, the embassy is also interested in the issue of using soft power to strengthen relations between the British and Thai people. Even though we are already close to each other in having music, movies, or football, we have British literature which everyone can access anytime, anywhere.

Therefore, on the 28th, there will be a Book Expo Thailand, we will exhibit literary works by seven famous British writers from the past to the present, divided into 3 zones: the Classical Period, the Democratic Era, and Freedom of Speech and Contemporary.

In addition, the booth also publicizes Chevening scholarship, the UK government’s international scholarships program, which this year marks the 40th anniversary of the scholarship.

The ambassador invites Thai people to apply for scholarships and attend the 28th Book Expo Thailand, saying that it is a great opportunity to learn more about GB classics and contemporary works, and how they portray values of freedom and inclusion. Moreover, the event is very interesting as over one million are available each year.

Mr. Gooding added that his one of favorite books is “Animal Farm”, written by George Orwell. He has applied it to the principles of people management as a leader and how to be responsible for people under management, which must ensure that the care of team members is excellent and fair so as not to be in the same position as the characters in the book.

“Book Expo Thailand 2023” with over one million books available, offering discounts up to 80% is held from 12 – 23 October 2023 at Hall 5-7, LG Floor, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. Monday to Thursday (12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23 October) open 11.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m., Friday – Sunday (13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 October) open 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

Carabao Extends Carabao Cup Contract for Three More Years, Expanding Global Reach of Its Beverage Brand

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Contributor

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19 October 2023, 17:38

Carabao has partnered with Thairath TV and TikTok to bring the live broadcast of the Carabao Cup 2023/24 to Thai audiences, allowing them to watch the matches for free.

Carabao Group Public Company Limited has recently announced the renewal of its official sponsorship contract for an additional three years for the Carabao Cup, a renowned football tournament in England that is celebrated by football enthusiasts worldwide and in Thailand. This contract extension underscores Carabao’s commitment to its vision of “World-class Products, World-class Brand.”

In a strategic move to expand its fan base and reach a new generation of viewers across the nation, the brand has forged partnerships with major media players Thairath TV and TikTok to offer free live broadcasts of the Carabao Cup 2023/24 football matches for the Thai audience.

Mr.Kamoldist Smuthkochorn, Deputy Managing Director of the Marketing Division at Carabao Group Public Company Limited, has announced the company’s decision to extend its main sponsorship contract for the Carabao Cup football competition with the English Football League (EFL) for an additional three years. This extension will continue the partnership beyond the current term, which has been set to conclude in 2024. This extension secures Carabao as the primary sponsor of the Carabao Cup until 2027, further aligning with the company’s sports marketing strategy driven by the vision of “World-class Products, World-class Brand.” through the focus on football, which is the world’s most popular sport.

With this contract renewal, Carabao will become the brand supporting the EFL in organizing this world-class football competition for the longest duration in history—10 seasons spanning from 2017 to 2027. This achievement is a source of pride as a Thai brand that has successfully transformed into a world-class brand.

“The extension of our title sponsorship contract for an additional three years underscores our unwavering dedication to elevating the Carabao brand to a new level of excellence. The support requires continuity through the universally beloved sport of football. Our sponsorship for the Carabao Cup exemplifies our commitment to utilizing sports marketing as a tool to establish Carabao as a genuinely world-class beverage brand,” said Kamoldist.

He added, “Beyond being a sponsor of the Carabao Cup, Carabao has partnered with the EFL to foster and lay the groundwork for the Thai football industry through the Carabao Sports initiative. This initiative comprises several projects, including the ‘Carabao Coach the Coaches’ project, aimed at imparting international-level football expertise to the Thai football industry. We’ve collaborated with football coaches from English league clubs, leveraging their skills and experience to share their football training techniques with coaches of Thai youth teams. This initiative aims to elevate the level of coaching, bolster potential, and transfer valuable knowledge to the Thai youth.”

He further elaborated, “Those who successfully complete this program will attain football coaching skills that meet world-class standards, enabling them to nurture and train young players, preparing them for potential careers as professional athletes in the future.

Additionally, we’ve initiated the ‘Carabao Grassroots Football’ project, which aims to supply football equipment to underprivileged youth. We have also invited coaches from the ‘Carabao Coach the Coaches’ project to share their knowledge, skills, and techniques with young players.”

Furthermore, to sustain the enthusiasm generated by this year’s Carabao Cup, Carabao Group has partnered with Kool Supporters Group Company Limited to host the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup 2023, a 7-a-side football tournament of national significance. This competition, now in its second year, offers an opportunity for passionate football enthusiasts to participate in national-level contests.

The qualifying round is scheduled to take place in each region from August 5 to November 19, 2023, comprising a total of 32 pitches held nationwide. This marks a significant doubling in size compared to the 16 pitches held last year, aimed at expanding the reach to football players across the country.

A key highlight of the competition is the quest to identify the best national champion team of the Carabao 7-a-Side Cup 2023. The ultimate prize for this team is an exciting opportunity to fly to London and witness the final round of the Carabao Cup for the 2023/24 season up close.

Kamoldist said, “Our sports-related projects, particularly in football, are part of a long-term commitment that will continue into the future. In the upcoming year, we plan to expand these initiatives on a larger scale than ever before. This expansion is aimed at reaching a broader audience of football fans and consumers throughout the nation. It’s all part of our ongoing sports marketing strategy, which is designed to enhance the visibility of the Carabao brand, both within Thailand and on a global presence.”

In a bid to heighten excitement for this year’s Carabao Cup and attract a broader audience, especially among the newer generations across the nation, the company has formed an alliance with major media players Thairath TV and TikTok. Together, they will live-stream the Carabao Cup 2023/24 football matches for Thai audiences, providing free access to watch the games all the way through to the final round.

Mr.Vatchara Vatcharapol, the Chief Executive Officer of Thairath TV and Thairath Online, said, “Thairath, as a leading media outlet in Thailand, has consistently prioritized live sports broadcasting. We always select and deliver content that aligns with the interests of the Thai people.

Currently, Thairath is delighted to be the official broadcaster, providing high-quality live broadcasts of the Carabao Cup football matches for Thai enthusiasts to cheer on. These exciting matches can be viewed on Thairath TV (Channel 32) and TikTok: @Thairath_Sport. The live broadcasts started from Round 3 on September 27 and will continue until the finals in February next year, covering a total of 12 matches until the Carabao Cup competition crowns its champion.”

“Definitely, Thairath is dedicated to creating engaging content to please football fans. One such program is ‘Nak Su Carabao’ (Carabao Fighters), a special segment as part of the news program on Thairath Noontime News. This program offers regular updates on every aspect of the Carabao Cup every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Moreover, Thairath Online features special sections and content focused on the Carabao Cup. Live sports news updates can also be accessed through ‘Thairath Tells Sports News’ on Facebook: Thairath Sport and special content via TikTok: @Thairath_Sport.”

Mr.Namon Tingsabhat, Sports & Gaming Operations Lead -Thailand ,TikTok, expressed the company’s honor in being a partner for the broadcast of the Carabao Cup 2023/24. This partnership is rooted in the recognition that sports content is a swiftly growing category that captivates TikTok users.

He said, “This partnership marks the first occasion for Thai viewers to watch live broadcasts of world-class football matches via the TikTok platform. It provides an exciting opportunity for fans to support their beloved football teams in real-time, all the way from England. In addition, the collaboration includes insightful content from TikTok creators and highlights from the competition, available on TikTok: @Thairath_Sport. This content is curated for football enthusiasts to closely follow and engage with throughout the season.”

The Carabao Cup holds a special place as a well-established and prestigious football competition in England. It features a total of 92 clubs, comprising 20 from the Premier League and 72 from the English Football League, including the Championship, League One, and League Two. This contributes to the competition’s diverse and captivating nature, as it brings together clubs of varying sizes. The Carabao Cup plays a vital role in adding vibrancy to the world of English football and provides an exciting spectacle for football fans across the globe.

“The Carabao Cup not only contributes to elevating the Carabao brand to a global level while establishing its standout position in Thailand, but it also represents a significant milestone and challenge in marketing a Thai brand to attain international recognition,” said Kamoldist.

“This marks the seventh year of Carabao Group’s corporate branding and product promotion through its association with the Carabao Cup in the British and European markets. This ongoing commitment underscores the organization’s commitment to leveraging sports marketing as a strategic approach to establish its image as a world-class beverage brand.”

Britney Spears Writes of Abortion While Dating Justin Timberlake in Excerpts From Upcoming Memoir

By

Associated Press

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19 October 2023, 17:05

Books Britney Spears — FILE - Britney Spears, left, and Justin Timberlake arrive at the 28th Annual American Music Awards in Los Angeles on Jan. 8, 2001. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File, File)

Britney Spears wrote that she had an abortion while dating Justin Timberlake more than 20 years ago, according to a peek inside her hotly anticipated memoir.

“If it had been left up to me alone, I never would have done it,” she writes of the procedure, according to the excerpt from “The Woman in Me” published Tuesday in People magazine. “And yet Justin was so sure that he didn’t want to be a father.”

The pregnancy “was a surprise, but for me, it wasn’t a tragedy,” she wrote in the excerpt, saying that she had wanted to start a family with Timberlake — it was just earlier than expected.

“But Justin definitely wasn’t happy about the pregnancy. He said we weren’t ready to have a baby in our lives, that we were way too young,” she wrote. The couple broke up in 2002. It’s unclear when the pregnancy happened.

AP23290633894534 — FILE – Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears appear at the 2002 NBA All-Star game in Philadelphia on Feb. 10, 2002. Spears’ memoir “The Woman in Me” releases Oct. 24. (AP Photo/Chris Gardner, File)

Representatives for Spears declined to offer further comment. Representatives for Timberlake did not respond to requests for comment from The Associated Press. The AP has not been able to independently review a copy of the “The Woman in Me” yet.

Spears, a prolific user of social media, has not posted to Instagram or X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, since the People stories were published.

In the excerpt published in People, she characterized the abortion as “one of the most agonizing things I have ever experienced in my life.”

Spears’ long-awaited memoir will be published Oct. 24, just months after her divorce from Sam Asghari was announced and promising to shed light on the 41-year-old’s tumultuous decades in the spotlight.

“NO ONE KNOWS WHAT I REALLY THOUGHT … UNTIL NOW,” reads a teaser for the book she posted Sunday. The audiobook will be narrated by actor Michelle Williams.

Hailing from Kentwood, Louisiana, Spears rose to fame as a tween on “The Mickey Mouse Club,” alongside other future stars like Ryan Gosling and Timberlake — a trajectory chronicled in other excerpts published by People.

Despite some further attempts at acting — in the People excerpts, she says the lead in “The Notebook” came down to her and Rachel McAdams and that she was relieved when 2002’s “Crossroads” was “was pretty much the beginning and end of my acting career” — she found indelible stardom with her music career, starting with 1999’s “…Baby One More Time.”

She had two sons with Kevin Federline, but was placed under a court-ordered conservatorship — mostly under the supervision of her father — that controlled her life, money and voice after public breakdowns. That conservatorship would last nearly 14 years, ending in late 2021, after a swelling #FreeBritney movement that helped secure new limits on conservatorships in California.

AP23290633894034 — FILE – Britney Spears, left, and Justin Timberlake arrive at the 28th Annual American Music Awards in Los Angeles on Jan. 8, 2001. Spears’ memoir “The Woman in Me” releases Oct. 24. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File, File)

Many of Spears’ allegations against her father and others who operated the conservatorship are expected to be heard in a civil trial scheduled for next year.

A 2021 documentary, “Framing Britney Spears,” included an old interview in which Timberlake spoke of sleeping with a former girlfriend and indicated he ridiculed her in his “Cry Me A River” music video. That sparked a backlash in which fans accused the former NSYNC member of contributing to Spears’ breakdown and also renewed ire about his role in Janet Jackson’s so-called wardrobe malfunction during the 2004 Super Bowl halftime show. Subsequently, he apologized to Spears and Jackson “because I care for and respect these women and I know I failed.”

A few months later, as Spears revealed long-guarded secrets about what she described as an “abusive” conservatorship in court, Timberlake tweeted his support.

“After what we saw today, we should all be supporting Britney at this time,” he posted in June 2021. “Regardless of our past, good and bad, and no matter how long ago it was… what’s happening to her is just not right.”

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Thailand Announces the Discovery of a New Species of Alligator

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Khaosod English

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19 October 2023, 16:38

Alligator munensis6 — Alligator munensis is named after the Mun River near where it was found.

Discovering fossils of alligators in Asia, including Alligator munensis in Thailand, shows that the alligator’s habitat was much more extensive in the past than it is today.

Thitiphan Juchanchot, spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources, Precha Saitong, head of the Department of Fossil Conservation, and Assistant Professor Kantapon Suraprasit, lecturer in geology at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, jointly announced the results of their research on Alligator munensis, a new species of alligator that was an extinct species, at the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment on October 18.

The team began their exploration and examination of the Alligator munensis since April 21, 2005, preserving at the Non Sung District Office, Nakhon Ratchasima. They discovered an ancient animal skeleton, consisting of one complete skull, two partial jaws, and five bone fragments.

Alligator munensis4 — Thitiphan Juchanchot, spokesperson for the Department of Natural Resources, Precha Saitong, head of the Department of Fossil Conservation, and Assistant Professor Kantapon Suraprasit, lecturer in geology at the Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University, jointly announced the results of their research on a new species of alligator.

Its skeleton that was found was almost intact and was buried in sandy sediments about 2 meters below the surface. It is estimated to be 230,000 years old and dates from the middle Pleistocene or younger, making it a new species.

This discovery was published in the journal “Scientific Reports’. The researchers compared this specimen with 19 others previously studied and gave it the name Alligator munensis, which comes from the Mun River near where it was found.

Alligator munensis5 — The skeleton of Alligator munensis was discovered in 2005 in the land of Somporn Noklang in the village of Ban Si Liam, Nakhon Ratchasima, northeastern Thailand.

an extinct species — The skull of Alligator munensis was discovered in 2005.

Alligator munensis has similarities to crocodiles, but differs in having a bowl-shaped snout, whereas crocodiles have a pointed, V-shaped snout with visible upper and lower teeth when the mouth is closed. When the alligator closes its mouth, both the lower and upper teeth are not visible.

Currently, there are several species of crocodiles around the world, while only two species of alligator remain – Alligator mississippiensis, which is found mainly in the southeastern United States, and Alligator sinensis, which lives in the basin of the Yangtze River in China. Both alligator species are considered critically endangered.

Alligator munensis7 — Reconstruction of Alligator munensis by Márton Szabó

Alligator munensis1 — Alligator munensis is estimated to be 230,000 years old.

The skull characteristics of Alligator munensis are similar to those of Alligator sinensis, indicating that the two types of alligators may share a common ancestor between the Yangtze River Basin and the Mekong-Chao Phraya Basin.

However, the pronounced anatomical differences suggest that the two species split from one another long prior to the Pleistocene, possibly during the uplifting of the Tibetan Plateau during the Miocene.

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CP Cambodia continues “1,000,000 CC of Blood for Cambodia” Campaign

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Contributor

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19 October 2023, 15:26

CP Cambodia proudly organized a large-scale blood donation event, themed “1,000,000 CC of Blood for Cambodia”, aiming to underline the vital significance of blood donations in saving lives across Cambodia.

Hosted at CP Cambodia’s animal feed factory in the Ang Snoul district, the campaign witnessed the participation of over 300 dedicated CP staff. Collaborative support came from esteemed partners such as the National Blood Transfusion Centre, CPALL Cambodia, Kasetphun Cambodia, and CPPC.

Mr. Wittaya Kreangkriwit, President of C.P. Cambodia, commented, “Today signifies a profound commitment from CP Cambodia towards a humanitarian cause that has the power to transform lives. It also presents an opportunity for us to remember and honor the philanthropic legacy of the late Khunying Tawee Chearavanont, who has always prioritized societal welfare, even as CP has been instrumental in providing employment and livelihoods to countless individuals.”

Dr. Heng Chamroeun, Vice-President of the National Blood Transfusion Centre, shared his heartfelt gratitude: “CP Cambodia’s generosity and commitment to the cause are commendable. I also wish to acknowledge our dedicated staff who were pivotal in making today’s event a resounding success. The success of this campaign propels a positive shift in perception and understanding towards blood donation and health care in our society.”

Underlining its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), this campaign marks the third such initiative by CP Cambodia, engaging approximately 800 participants cumulatively. Mr. Kittiphop Thirachotikun, Assistant Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, reiterated the company’s dedication to its “CPF 2030 Sustainability in Action” strategy. This vision emphasizes societal enhancement, environmental equilibrium, and adherence to the principles of benefiting the nation, its people, and the company.

In 2023, CP Cambodia’s unwavering commitment to social responsibility was evident:

Food Security: Partnering with the “project school canteen”, CP Cambodia provided nutritious meals to children at the New Hope for Cambodian Children orphanage, emphasizing the importance of high-quality food consumption.

Self-Sufficient Society: Engaging in multiple humanitarian efforts, CP Cambodia has supplied essential medical equipment to numerous hospitals across the country.

Balance of Nature: Setting a robust environmental goal, CP has committed to planting a million trees by 2030, endorsing soil enrichment, water purification, and promoting renewable energy.

CP Foods stands tall as a leading agro-industrial and food conglomerate, not just in Thailand but across the globe. With the vision of being the “Kitchen of the World”, CP’s diverse businesses span from Feed, Farm, to Food, encompassing retail and outlets.

Looking forward, CP Cambodia is determined to weave societal wellbeing and environmental preservation into the fabric of its business blueprint.

Thailand Welcomes China as Its “Elder Brother,” Says Srettha

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Khaosod English

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19 October 2023, 14:58

srettha beijing tour1 — Prime Minister witness activities promoting tourism cooperation between Tourism Authority of Thailand and 8 leading Chinese partners at Grand Ballroom 3, Kerry Hotel. October 19, 2023

Srettha Thavisin, Thailand’s Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, confirmed the readiness for cooperation in the tourism sector between Thailand and prominent 8 Chinese partners during an official visit to China for the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF) on 19 October.

The signing of the Letter of Intent (LOI) on tourism cooperation took place at the Kerry Hotel in Beijing, People’s Republic of China.

The Prime Minister said, The Thai government attaches great importance to the continuous promotion of relations with China in all fields, be it investment, tourism, art, culture and strengthening the excellent relations between the people of the two countries.

“It is like the saying that China and Thailand are not far from being siblings, but I would like to confirm that China is the elder brother. I hope this visit will lead to positive results for tourism, including increased visa exemption.”

srettha beijing tour2 — Prime Minister witness activities promoting tourism cooperation between Tourism Authority of Thailand and 8 leading Chinese partners at Grand Ballroom 3, Kerry Hotel. October 19, 2023

The Letter of Intent highlights the strategic, long-term tourism partnership between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and eight leading Chinese partners, including Ctrip, Ant Group (Alipay), Meituan, Huawei, Spring Airline, Sina News, iQIYI and JekoTrip.

It underlines Thailand’s commitment to strategic cooperation with a focus on quality tourism and restoring confidence in travel to Thailand.

From January to August 2023, about 2.2 million Chinese tourists visited Thailand and benefited from a special visa exemption for tourists from September.

“In addition to the well-known destinations in Thailand such as Bangkok, Phuket and Chiang Mai, I invite Chinese tourists to explore secondary cities with beautiful natural and diverse cultural attractions. I emphasize that Thailand is safe and welcomes all travellers. We are ready to take care of Chinese tourists and provide them with all amenities,” the Prime Minister said.

srettha li qiang — Prime Minister has a bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of China at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, China on October 18, 2023.

Earlier, during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on October 18, Srettha expressed his condolences for the shooting incident at Siam Paragon in Bangkok on October 3 that killed a Chinese tourist.

“This is a one-time occurrence that will not occur again. Thailand has increased its security measures to a new level. However, if the Chinese side has any suggestions, I would be grateful. Thailand is always concerned and ready to provide excellent service to Chinese tourists,” the Thai Prime Minister stated.

PM Srettha Thavisin also said on Thursday he was touched that during a welcome reception in Beijing, Chinese singer sang Thai song (Loi Krathong) which reflects the importance placed on Thailand by China. He added he has given a direct phone number to the Chinese counterpart.

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Oscar-Winner Michelle Yeoh Among Eight Elected IOC Members

By

Xinhua News Agency

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19 October 2023, 14:07

ioc yeoh2 — Michelle Yeoh takes the oath as new IOC member during the session. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh was among eight newly elected IOC members during the 141st IOC Session.

MUMBAI — Oscar-winning actress Michelle Yeoh has become an International Olympic Committee (IOC) member after being voted in on the final day of the 141st IOC Session here on Tuesday.

The 61-year-old Malaysian, formerly a junior squash champion, was among eight newly elected members.

Joining her on the Olympic governing body are judoka Yael Arad, who won Israel’s first Olympic medal, Hungarian businessman Balasz Furjes, Cecilia Roxana Tait Villacorta, a former Olympic volleyball medalist of Peru, and German entrepreneur Michael Mronz.
All five had been proposed as individual members by the IOC Executive Board in September.

ioc yeoh1 — International Olympic Committee (IOC) president Thomas Bach (5th L) poses with new IOC members during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai, India on Oct. 17, 2023. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

Sweden’s Petra Sorling, president of the International Table Tennis Federation, and South Korea’s Kim Jae-youl, president of the International Skating Union, were also elected thanks to their function as heads of international federations.

Mehrez Boussayene, president of the Tunisian Olympic Committee, was elected for a function within a National Olympic Committee (NOC).

These elections bring the total number of IOC members to 107 and the proportion of women in the IOC membership to 41.1 percent.

“This is in keeping with the IOC’s ambition to lead by example and increase female representation in governance structures,” said the IOC.

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Evidence Shows Hamas Militants Likely Used Some North Korean Weapons in Attack on Israel

By

Associated Press

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19 October 2023, 13:27

Israel Palestinians North Korea Weapons — Suspected North Korean-made F-7 rocket-propelled grenades, many with a distinctive red stripe on their warhead, are seen at an Israeli military base in southern Israel, Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/ Alon Bernstein)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Hamas fighters likely fired North Korean weapons during their Oct. 7 assault on Israel, a militant video and weapons seized by Israel show, despite Pyongyang’s denials that it sells arms to the militant group.

The video was analyzed by two experts on North Korean arms. Along with an Associated Press analysis of weapons captured on the battlefield and South Korean military intelligence, the video indicates that Hamas used the F-7 rocket-propelled grenade, a shoulder-fired weapon that fighters typically use against armored vehicles.

The evidence shines a light on the murky world of the illicit arms shipments that sanction-battered North Korea uses as a way to fund its arms programs.

Rocket-propelled grenade launchers fire a single warhead and can be quickly reloaded, making them valuable weapons for guerrilla forces in running skirmishes with heavy vehicles. The F-7 has been documented in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and the Gaza Strip, said N.R. Jenzen-Jones, a weapons expert who works as the director of the consultancy Armament Research Services.

“North Korea has long supported Palestinian militant groups, and North Korean arms have previously been documented amongst interdicted supplies,” Jenzen-Jones told The Associated Press.

AP23291286759192 — FILE – North Korean soldiers stand on armored vehicles with rocket launchers as they parade in Pyongyang, North Korea on Oct. 10, 2015. (AP Photo/Wong Maye-E, File)

Hamas has published images of their training that show fighters with a weapon with a rocket-propelled grenade with a distinctive red stripe across its warhead, and other design elements matching the F-7, said Matt Schroeder, a senior researcher with Small Arms Survey who wrote a guide to Pyongyang’s light weapons.

“It is not a surprise to see North Korean weapons with Hamas,” Schroeder said.

The North Korean F-7 resembles the more widely distributed Soviet-era RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenade, with a few noticeable differences.

A militant video examined by the AP shows one fighter carrying the F-7. Weapons seized by the Israeli military and shown to journalists also included that red stripe and other design elements matching the F-7.

In a background briefing with journalists Tuesday, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff specifically identified the F-7 as one of the North Korean weapons it believed Hamas used in the attack. The Israeli military declined to answer questions from the AP about the origin and the manufacturer of those rocket-propelled grenades, saying the ongoing war with Hamas prevented it from responding.

North Korea’s mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment from the AP. However, Pyongyang last week through its state-run KCNA news agency dismissed claims that Hamas used its weapons as “a groundless and false rumor” orchestrated by the United States.

AP23291636518706 — Smoke rises following an Israeli airstrike in the Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel, Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)

Hamas propaganda videos and photos previously have shown its fighters with North Korea’s Bulsae guided anti-tank missile. Jenzen-Jones said he believed, based on imagery of the weapons wielded by Hamas fighters, they also used North Korea’s Type 58 self-loading rifle, a variant of the Kalashnikov assault rifle.

Iran also has modeled some of its ballistic missiles after North Korean variants.

Iran’s mission to the United Nations did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Officials in Iran long have supported Hamas and have praised their assault on Israel.

In December 2009, Thai authorities grounded a North Korean cargo plane reportedly carrying 35 tons of conventional arms, including rockets and rocket-propelled grenades, as it made a refueling stop at a Bangkok airport. Thai officials then said the weapons were headed to Iran. The United States later said in 2012 the shipments interdicted by the Thais had been bound for Hamas.

North Korea also faces Western suspicions that it supplies ammunition, artillery shells and rockets to Russia to support of its war on Ukraine. The White House said last week that North Korea recently delivered more than 1,000 containers of military equipment and munitions to Russia.

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Srettha Thavisin delivers the “Green Silk Road” speech at BRF

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Khaosod English

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18 October 2023, 22:32

Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin made a speech at the High-Level Forum “Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature” during the 3rd Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation (BRF), which took place on October 18, 2023, at the China National Convention Centre (CNCC) in Beijing.

The government released his statement as follows:

On the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative, I commend China for the achievements made under the BRI. This globe-spanning infrastructure project, which is still in its early stage, has already brought prosperity to millions of people around the world. Therefore, I am honored to attend this 3rd Belt and Road Forum and forge closer partnerships with our friends and allies.

More than ever, our countries need to connect as the world is facing challenges, from pandemic to economic recession, climate change and loss of biodiversity. These result from the decline of harmony between human and nature.

In this spirit, I aim to contribute to the conversations at this High-Level Forum because Thailand is a firm believer in the sustainability agenda. We believe that a “greener” development is necessary to advance the BRI towards a “High-Quality Belt and Road Cooperation” for “Common Development and Prosperity”. Since BRI is so monumental in both scope and span, we hope that this will help spread and accelerate actions towards sustainability.

Thailand, despite being a small nation, aims to take lessons from this project and implement it within our nation. Just recently, the Thai Cabinet affirmed the study and implementation plan for the Land Bridge project.

This project will connect the Andaman Sea and the Indian Ocean to the Gulf of Thailand and the Pacific Ocean, improving connectivity in the southern Andaman region.

This will reduce the commute time going through the Strait of Malacca under the logistic operation idea of “one port, two sides” across a land distance of 90 kilometers in Southern Thailand.

We hope that this will work in harmony with BRI infrastructure and help connect the world.

Thailand has also long promoted sustainable development in the international arena. Since 2016, Thailand has served as the ASEAN Coordinator on Sustainable Development Cooperation. In this role, Thailand has promoted collaboration not only within ASEAN but also served as a bridge with external partners.

Most recently, we reached 2 key milestones at the APEC Summit: First, the Bangkok Goals on Bio-Circular-Green Economy were adopted as APEC’s first comprehensive framework to advance the sustainability agenda in a transformative manner. Second, the APEC BCG Awards, initiated by Thailand and financially supported by China, were launched to raise public awareness and inclusivity among member economies.

To realize the vision of a Green Silk Road for Harmony with Nature, I propose a few priorities for our actions:

First, we must implement green transition across sectors, and promote sustainable production and consumption through all economic activities. This includes transportation, energy, and infrastructure. New technologies and digital transformation can greatly help green transition, although responsible use and equitable access must be ensured.

On our part, Thailand is actively implementing our Long-term Low Greenhouse Gas Emission Development Strategy. We have realigned our National Energy Plan in shifting consumption to clean energy, and promote energy efficiency. We aim to increase the production of Zero Emission Vehicles to 30 per cent by 2030, while encouraging foreign investment in the Electric Vehicle sector. We also plan to scale up sustainable agronomy to reduce climate change vulnerability and improve farmers’ well-being.

I am optimistic that these policies will help us reach our national targets to reduce 40 per cent of greenhouse gas emission by 2030, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, and net-zero emission by 2065.

Second, we must recognize the importance of environment and ecosystem conservation. Thailand aims to expand green areas up to 55 per cent of the country’s total area. As for marine and coastal biodiversity, Thailand is committed to the “30 by 30 Target” for protected areas, per our pledge during COP CBD in December 2022. We believe that sustainable blue economy will be crucial to achieve a Green Maritime Silk Road.

Third, Green Finance Mechanism is an indispensable tool for a green transition. So far, we have raised 12.5 billion US dollars through the issuance of Sustainability Bond to fund multiple sustainable projects. Soon, we will introduce Sustainability Linked Bonds to stimulate the growth of green bonds market. This will incentivize all entities as well as support the private sector and MSMEs to engage in eco-friendly businesses.

My fourth and final point is that we need to foster our cooperation and commitment to multilateralism. Multilateral frameworks provide opportunities for collaboration, building partnerships, sharing knowledge and stimulating innovations for the welfare of the people.

Therefore, let us continue working together under the BRI and create partnerships that generate sustainable, inclusive, and equitable growth for all.

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How to Choose the Perfect Family Resort in Phuket, Thailand

By

Contributor

-

18 October 2023, 18:57

Nestled amidst the shimmering waters of the Andaman Sea is the island of Phuket in Southern Thailand, filled with natural attractions to explore and cultural experiences waiting to be had. With an abundance of resorts sprawled across its pristine shores, how does one pick the perfect place for a memorable family getaway? Here are handy tips to consider when choosing a family resort in Phuket, Thailand.

1. Rooms Designed with Families in Mind
Space is a luxury when vacationing with family. Seek out accommodations that offer spacious family rooms or interconnected options. Picture ocean-view suites where you can watch the sunset together or rooms that open up to lush gardens where kids can play freely.

2. Child-Friendly Amenities Take Center Stage
First and foremost, a resort that caters to their young guests sets the foundation for a hassle-free vacation. Seek out resorts with dedicated kids’ clubs, where a plethora of fun-filled activities await. Think along the lines of arts and craft sessions, water sports, or even Thai cultural classes tailored for children.

3. Dining Delights for All Ages
A resort that offers an array of dining options ensures that everyone in the family, including picky eaters, is catered to. Picture scrumptious breakfast buffets, beachside barbecues, Thai cuisine menus, and kid-friendly menus crafted by talented culinary teams.

4. Engaging Activities for All
While the little ones immerse themselves in games, adults should have their share of leisure and adventure. From rejuvenating spa sessions to exhilarating water sports or cultural excursions, the perfect resort offers a balanced mix of activities, ensuring every family member finds their slice of paradise.

5. Safety and Convenience
When traveling with family, safety should never be a compromise. Opt for resorts that prioritize guest safety, from supervised kids’ areas to lifeguard-patrolled pools. Moreover, a prime location nearby popular beach destinations like Karon Beach, allows families easy access to explore Phuket’s myriad attractions while providing a tranquil retreat away from the bustling crowds.

6. Genuine Reviews and Recommendations
Last but certainly not least, delve into genuine guest reviews. When families rave about their unforgettable experiences, you’re on the right track. For instance, Thavorn Palm Beach Resort’s guest testimonials often highlight our warm hospitality, making the resort a trusted choice for many vacationers.

While Phuket’s beauty is undeniable, the essence of a memorable family vacation lies in the heart of the resort you choose. Choose the perfect blend of luxury, fun, and culture, ensuring your Phuket trip is nothing short of magical.

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