Friday, January 25, 2013

The Facts and Fallacies of the War in Mali



Belgian MP LAURENT LOUIS stands against war in Mali and exposes the international neo-colonial plot

Transcript by Feuillien Geraldine


Belgian MP LAURENT LOUIS: Thank you, Mr President. Dear Ministers, dear Colleagues.

Belgium is indeed the land of surrealism. This morning we learned in the media that the Belgian army is incapable of fighting some extremist soldiers having radical Islamist beliefs existing within its own ranks and who can not be dismissed by lack of legal means. However, at the same time, we decide to help France in its war against “Terror” by providing logistical support for its operation in Mali. What wouldn’t we do in order to fight against terrorism outside our borders?

I just hope we took care not to send for this anti-terrorist operation, in Mali, these much talked about Belgian Islamists soldiers! I seem to be joking, but what is going on in the world today does not make me laugh at all. It doesn’t make me laugh, because without any doubt, the leaders of our Western countries are taking the peoples for imbeciles with the help and support of the Media which are nothing more today than an organ of propaganda of the ruling powers.

Around the world, military actions and regime’s destabilization are becoming more and more frequent. Preventive war has become the rule. And today, in the name of democracy and the fight against terrorism, our states grant themselves the right to violate the sovereignty of independent countries and to overthrow legitimate leaders.

There has been Iraq and Afghanistan, the wars of the American lie. Came later, Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, where thanks to your decisions, our country has been “first in line” to participate in crimes against humanity, in each case to overthrow progressive and moderated regimes and to replace them by Islamist regimes, and – isn’t it weird ? – their 1st will was to impose Sharia law.

This is exactly what is currently happening in Syria where Belgium is shamefully funding the arming of the Islamist rebels who are trying to overthrow Bashar Al Assad. Thus, in the midst of economic crisis, as more and more Belgians can no longer house themselves, feed, heat and cure themselves – Yeah, I can hear what a filthy populist I am – well, the Minister of Foreign Affairs decided to offer the Syrian rebels 9 million euros!

Of course, they’ll try to make us believe that this money will be used for humanitarian purposes … one more lie! And as you can see, for months, our country is only participating to put in place, Islamic regimes in North Africa and the Middle East. So, when they come and pretend to go to war in order to fight against terrorism in Mali, well… I feel like to laugh.

It’s false! Under the appearance of good actions, we only intervene to defend financial interests in a complete neo-colonialist mindset. It’s a real nonsense to go to help France in Mali in the name of the fight against islamic terrorism when at the same time, we support in Syria the overthrow of Bashar al- Assad by Islamist rebels who want to impose Sharia Law, as was done in Tunisia and in Libya It is about time to stop lying to us and treating people like imbeciles

The time has come to tell the truth. Arming the Islamist Rebels, as Westeners have, in the past armed Bin Laden, that friend of the Americans before they turned against him, well, the western countries are taking the opportunity to place military bases in the newly conquered countries while favoring domestic companies. Everything is therefore strategic. In Iraq, our American allies, have put their hands on the country’s oil wealth. In Afghanistan, it was its opium and drugs always useful when it comes to make lots of money pretty quickly.

In Libya, in Tunisia, in Egypt, or then again in Syria, the aim was and is still today to overthrow moderate powers, to replace them by Islamist powers who very quickly, will become troublesome and that we will shamelessly attack pretending once again, to fight terrorism or protect Israel.

Thus, the next targets are already known. Within a few months, I bet that our eyes will turn to Algeria and eventually to Iran. To go to war, to free people from an outside aggressor, is noble But go to war to defend the interests of the USA, To go to war to defend the interests of big companies such as AREVA, go to war to put our hands on gold mines, has nothing noble at all and it reveals our countries to be attackers and thugs!

No one dares to speak, but I will not shut up! and if my battle makes me look like an enemy of this system who flaunts the Human Rights in the name of financial, geo-strategic and neo-colonialist interests, so be it! Flaunting and exposing this regime is a duty and makes me proud And honestly, I apology for my low class speech, but I fuck you all, the so-called do-gooders, both left and right wingers or from the center who are today licking the boots of our corrupted powers and who will be pleased to ridicule me.

I fuck you all, leaders who are playing with your bombs as kids do in a playground!

I fuck you, you who pretend to be democrates while you are nothing more than low class criminals. I don’t have much respect neither for the journalists who have the audacity to label the opponents as mentally retarded while basically, they know very well that these opponents are right.

Finaly, I despise, at the highest point, those who believe they are the kings of the world and who are dictating their laws, because I AM on the side of truth, the side of justice, the side of the innocent victims of looting at all cost. And it is for this reason that I have decided to clearly oppose this resolution that is sending our country to support France in its neo-colonialis operation.

Since the beginning of the French operation, the lie is organized. We are told that France is only answering the call for help of a Malian president. We almost forget that this president has no legitimacy and that he was put in place to ensure the transition following the coup of March 2012.

Who supported this coup d’état? Who started it? For who is this president of transition actually working? This is the first lie! The French president, François Hollande dares to pretend to wage this war to fight against the jihadists who threaten (ohhhh do you realize!) who threaten the French and European territory! But what an ugly lie!

By taking this official argument, while taking the opportunity to frighten the population increasing the terror allert level, implementing the Vigipirate plan our leaders and media are demonstrating an un-imaginable outrage! How dare they use such a point while France and Belgium have not hesitated to arm and support Jihadists in Libya and that these same countries continue to support these jihadists in Syria.

This pretext hides strategic and economic purposes. Our countries are no longer fearing inconsistency because everything is done to hide it. But the inconsistency is well present. It is not tomorrow that you’ll see a Malian citizen commit a act of terrorism in Europe. No! Unless we’ll suddenly create one so we can justify this military operation.

Haven’t we created september 11th, after all, to justifiy the invasions, arbitrary arrest, torture and massacre of innocent populations? Thus, create a Malian terrorist is no big deal! It must not be very complicated for our bloodthirsty leaders. Another pretext used these recent months to justify military operations, is the protection of human rights.

Ah! This pretext is still used today to justify the war in Mali. But yes! We have to act, otherwise the evil Islamists will impose Sharia law in Mali, stoning women and cutting the thugs’ hands off. Oh! The intention is truly noble. Noble and salutary for sure.

But then why is it, Good Lord, why is it that our countries have contributed in Tunisia and Libya to the accession to power of Islamists who have decided to apply this Sharia Law in these countries which were still not so long ago, modern and progressive? I invite you to ask the young Tunisians who have launched the revolution in Tunisia, if they are happy with their current situation? This is all hypocrisy. The purpose of this war in Mali is very clear.

And since no one talks about it, I WILL. The purpose is to fight against China and allow our American ally to maintain its presence in Africa and the Middle East. This is what guides these neo-colonialists operations. And you will see, when the military operation will be over, France will, of course, keep its military bases in Mali.

These bases will be a benefit to the Americans as well. And at the same time, as has always been the case, Western corporates will put their hands on juicy contracts that will once again deprive re- colonized countries of their wealth and raw materials. So let’s be clear, the primary beneficiaries of this military operation, will be the owners and shareholders of the French giant AREVA who has been trying for years to obtain a uranium mine in Falea, a town of 17,000 inhabitants located at 350 km from Bamako.

And I don’t know why, but my little finger is telling me that it won’t take long before AREVA will eventually exploit that mine! I don’t know, it’s an impression I have. It is therefore out of question that I would take part to this mining colonialism, that modern times colonialism. And for those who doubt about my arguments, I sincerely invite them to learn about the wealth of Mali.

Mali is a major producer of gold, but recently it has been designated – recently, eh….- as being a country that offers a world-class environment for the exploitation of uranium. How strange! One step closer to a war against Iran, it is obvious. For all these reasons and in order to not fall into the traps of lies they are tending us, I’ve decided not to give my support to that intervention in Mali.

Therefore, I will vote against it.

And by doing so, I’m being consistent since, I never supported in the past our criminal interventions in Libya or in Syria, and so being the only MP in this country to defend the non-interference and the fight against obscure interests. I really think it is about time to put an end to our participation to the UN or NATO and get out of the EU if Europe, instead of providing peace becomes a weapon of attack and destabilization of sovereign countries submissive to financial rather than human interests

Finally, I can only urge our government to remind the President Hollande the obligations resulting from the Geneva Conventions regarding the respect of prisoners of war. Indeed, I was shocked to hear on television from the mouth of the French President that his intention was to “destroy” – I say “destroy” – Islamist terrorists.

So, I do not want the qualification to be used to name the opponents to the Malian regime – it is always convenient today to talk about Islamic terrorists- to be used to circumvent the obligations of any democratic state in terms of respecting the rights of prisoners of war. We expect such a respect from the Fatherland of Human Rights.

In conclusion, Let me emphasize how lightly we decide to go to war. First, the government acts without any consent from the Parliament. It appears that it has the right to. It sends equipment, men to Mali

The Parliament subsequently reacts and when it responds, as today, well, this institution happens to be composed of only 1/3 of its members.

Much less if we speak of the French speaking MP’s. It is therefore a guilty lightness which does not really surprises me, coming from a Parliament of puppies, submitted to the dictates of political parties. Thank you.

(Translation: Geraldine Feuillien)

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Thursday, January 24, 2013

What Motivates Workers to Stay With Companies


24 Jan 2013 12:00 Africa/Lagos

CareerBuilder Survey Reveals Most Wanted Office Perks and What Motivates Workers to Stay With Companies

CHICAGO, Jan. 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- If you could have one perk - any perk - in your workplace, what would it be? If you had the choice, would you rather have a bigger title or a bigger office? If you were thinking about leaving your company, what would make you stay? A new CareerBuilder survey explores which job factors are most important to today's workers. More than 3,900 full-time workers nationwide participated in the survey conducted online by Harris Interactive© from November 1 to November 30, 2012.

Nearly one-third of employers (32 percent) reported that top performers left their organizations in 2012 and 39 percent are concerned that they'll lose top talent in 2013. While most workers (66 percent) stated that they are generally satisfied with their jobs, one in four (25 percent) said they will change jobs in 2013 or 2014.

How important is title?
While upward mobility is a key factor in job satisfaction and employee retention, having a certain title isn't important to more than half of workers (55 percent). The vast majority (88 percent) reported that salary matters more. Other factors that outrank job title in what is most important to workers are:
  • Flexible schedule – 59 percent
  • Being able to make a difference – 48 percent
  • Challenging work – 35 percent
  • Ability to work from home – 33 percent
  • Academic reimbursement – 18 percent
  • Having an office – 17 percent
  • Company car – 14 percent
Do perks matter?
Twenty-six percent of workers said that providing special perks is an effective way to improve employee retention. When asked to identify one perk that would make their workplace more satisfying, early dismissals, convenient gym access and casual dress scored highest:
  1. Half-day Fridays – 40 percent
  2. On-site fitness center – 20 percent
  3. Ability to wear jeans – 18 percent
  4. Daily catered lunches – 17 percent
  5. Massages – 16 percent
  6. Nap room – 12 percent
  7. Rides to and from work – 12 percent
  8. Snack cart that comes around the office – 8 percent
  9. Private restroom – 7 percent
  10. On-site daycare – 6 percent
What ultimately entices workers to stay with a company?
Not surprising, the majority of workers (70 percent) reported that increasing salaries is the best way to boost employee retention while 58 percent pointed to better benefits. Other actions workers said employers should take to reduce voluntary turnover include:
  • Provide flexible schedules – 51 percent
  • Increase employee recognition (awards, cash prizes, company trips) – 50 percent
  • Ask employees what they want and put feedback into action – 48 percent
  • Increase training and learning opportunities – 35 percent
  • Hire additional workers to ease workloads – 22 percent
  • Provide academic reimbursement – 22 percent
  • Carve out specific career paths and promote more – 21 percent
  • Institute a more casual dress code – 14 percent
"What determines job satisfaction is not a one-size-fits-all, but flexibility, recognition, the ability to make a difference and yes, even special perks, can go a long way," said Rosemary Haefner, Vice President of Human Resources at CareerBuilder. "Being compensated well will always be a top consideration, but we're seeing work-life balance, telecommuting options and learning opportunities outweigh other job factors when an employee decides whether to stay with an organization."

Survey Methodology
This survey was conducted online within the U.S. by Harris Interactive© on behalf of CareerBuilder among 2,611 hiring managers and human resource professionals and 3,991 workers (employed full-time, not self-employed, non-government) between November 1 and November 30, 2012 (percentages for some questions are based on a subset, based on their responses to certain questions). With pure probability samples of 2,611 and 3,991, one could say with a 95 percent probability that the overall results have a sampling error of +/- 1.92 and +/-1.55 percentage points, respectively. Sampling error for data from sub-samples is higher and varies.

About CareerBuilder®
CareerBuilder is the global leader in human capital solutions, helping companies target and attract great talent. Its online career site, CareerBuilder.com®, is the largest in the United States with more than 24 million unique visitors, 1 million jobs and 50 million resumes. CareerBuilder works with the world's top employers, providing resources for everything from employment branding and talent and compensation intelligence to recruitment solutions. More than 10,000 websites, including 140 newspapers and broadband portals such as MSN and AOL, feature CareerBuilder's proprietary job search technology on their career sites. Owned by Gannett Co., Inc. (NYSE:GCI), Tribune Company and The McClatchy Company (NYSE:MNI), CareerBuilder and its subsidiaries operate in the United States, Europe, South America, Canada and Asia. For more information, visit www.careerbuilder.com.

Media Contact
Jennifer Grasz
773-527-1164
Jennifer.Grasz@careerbuilder.com
http://www.twitter.com/CareerBuilderPR
 
SOURCE CareerBuilder
Web Site: http://www.careerbuilder.com







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Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Google Chairman Eric Schmidt Visits Top Nigerian Filmmaker Tunde Kelani


Chairman of Google, Eric Schmidt was at the Lagos Mainframe Studios of accomplished Nigerian filmmaker Tunde Kelani last week where both addressed the challenges of the Nigerian film industry. It was during Schmidt's visit to Lagos to meet with Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, the executive governor Lagos State, the commercial capital of Nigeria and the biggest megacity in sub-Saharan Africa. Nigeria's Iroko TV is the biggest partner of Google's YouTube in Africa and the world’s largest digital distributor of African movies and ranked among the top ten most innovative companies in Africa by Forbes magazine. YouTube and Iroko TV are making millions of dollars from Nollywood, Nigeria's fast developing film industry.

“Nollywood lovers around the world can watch the latest Nigerian movies by paying a fee of only $5 a month. Iroko TV typically buys the digital rights to the movies from producers and currently has a catalogue of over 5,000 films and over 500,000 registered users,” reported Forbes.

Iroko TV had over 152 million views in 2011 with over 3 million unique visitors from 178 countries spending on average 5 - 6 hours monthly.







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'LNG Carrier Market to be Worth $6.47bn in 2013' Says Visiongain Report


LONDON, January 22, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --

Visiongain's analysis indicates that the LNG carrier market will reach a value of $6.47bn in 2013, as companies seek to take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity that exists between the supply and demand sides of the global natural gas market. The LNG carrier market is therefore forecast by Visiongain to experience strong expansion over the next five years, reaching record levels of vessel output and capital expenditure.

The lead analyst of the LNG carrier report commented that, 'With the expansion of both LNG export and import infrastructure and very strong supply and demand natural gas market dynamics, more LNG carriers are required. The current undersupply of vessels is illustrated by an utilisation rate of the LNG carrier fleet approaching 100%, which has led to record charter rates for LNG carriers. Natural gas discoveries in North America are leading to LNG export terminal expansion on the continent, which, in addition to those terminals planned in Australia, will create yet more supply routes that need to be serviced by LNG vessels. Underpinning all this investment in LNG carriers is the significant arbitrage opportunity that exists between supply and demand markets. As the LNG spot market expands, a larger and more flexible LNG carrier fleet will be required. There is also a justifiable interest in smaller LNG carriers as the economics of transporting LNG to remote areas for power generation or for use as a transportation fuel improves.'
The report contains 112 tables, charts and graphs that add visual analysis in order to explain developing trends within the LNG carrier market. Visiongain provides forecasts for the period 2013-2023 in terms of capital expenditure (US$) on LNG carriers. In addition to a global forecast, there is a breakdown of seven leading markets by capital expenditure: three focus on the leading national LNG carrier construction markets; three breakdown the market by dominant containment system types used on LNG carriers; and one looks exclusively at the future of the small-scale LNG carrier market (less than 50,000 cubic metres of capacity). The forecasts include a breakdown of all current contracts on LNG carriers, a forecast of future delivery numbers and a breakdown of all LNG liquefaction terminals currently planned or under development.
A company's chapter provides extensive and detailed profiles, analysis and outlooks for the seven leading shipbuilders in the LNG carrier market; this includes detailing current projects, contracts, M&A activity, strategic focus and the future outlook of the companies. 46 other companies active in the market are also detailed. Last of all, three interviews from prominent figures within the LNG carrier industry provide expert insight alongside Visiongain analysis.

The LNG Carrier Market 2013-2023 will be of value to current and potential future investors in the LNG carrier industry and the LNG industry as a whole. It will also benefit companies and research centres that wish to broaden their knowledge and understanding of a growth market that will be crucial in shaping the future outlook of the global natural gas industry.


For further information concerning the Visiongain's LNG Carrier Market 2013-2023 report please visit http://www.visiongain.com/Report/960/The-LNG-Carrier-Market-2013-2023

Companies Listed
Agip (Division of ENI)
Almi Gas
Alpha Tankers
Anadarko
Anglo Eastern Management
Angola LNG
Anthony Veder
Apache
Apache Canada Ltd
Arrow Energy
Avner Oil Exploration
Awilco LNG
BC LNG Export Cooperative LLC.
BG Group
BHP Billiton
Bloomberg
Bonny Gas Transport
BP
BP Shipping
BPRL
Braemer Seascope Group
Brunei Gas Carriers
BW Gas
BW Group
Cambridge Energy Group
Cardiff Marine
Centrica
Cheniere Energy
Chevron
Chevron Shipping
China LNG Shipping
China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO)
China Shipping Group
China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC)
Chinese National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC)
Chubu Electric Power
CNOOC
ConocoPhillips
Corpus Christi LNG
Cove Energy
Daesung
Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering (DSME)
Dalian New Shipyard, Nantong
Delek Drilling
Diamond Gas Carriers
Dominion Corporation
Dynagas
Eilat Ashkelon Pipeline Company
EMP Energi Indonesia
Encana Corporation
Energy Projects Development, LLC
ENH
ENI
ENN (China)
EOG Resources Canada Inc
Excelerate Energy
Exmar Group
ExxonMobil
Fearnley LNG
Federal Republic of Nigeria represented by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)
Financial Times (FT)
Freeport LNG
Galp
GasLog
Gazprom OAO
Gaztransport and Technigaz (GTT)
GDF Suez
Golar LNG
Hanjin Heavy Industries
Höegh LNG
Hudong Heavy Machinery
Hudong Zhonghua
Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI)
Hyundai Samho
I.M. Skaugen.
Imabari Shipbuilding
INPEX
Inpex Browse Ltd
Interoil
Iraq's South Gas Company
Itochu
Japan Petroleum Exploration Company (Japex)
Jiangnan Shipbuilding Group
Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI)
Korea Gas Corporation (KOGAS)
Kunlun Energy Limited
Kuwait Foreign Petroleum
La Naval
LNG Japan
LNG Marine Transport Company
MAN Diesel and Turbo
Maran Gas
Marathon Oil
Medco Energi International Tbk
Meyer Werft
Mineral Resource Development Corporation
Mitsubishi Corporation
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)
Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding
Mitsui O.S.K (MOL)
Moss Maritime
Nakilat
Nantong Mingde Heavy Industry Group
National Iranian Gas Export Company (NIGEC)
National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC)
National Petroleum Company PNG
Natural Gas Pipelines Company (Israel)
Nigeria LNG
Nippon Oil
Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha (NYK)
Noble Energy
Norgas Carriers
Novatek
OAO United Shipbuilding Corp
Oil Search
Oman Oil Company
Oman Shipping Company
Oregon LNG
Origin Energy
Osaka Gas
Pacific Rubiales Corporation
Patriot Shipping
Pertamina
Petrobras
PetroChina (Hong Kong subsidiary of CNPC)
Petroleous de Venezuela, S.A. (PDVSA)
Petromin
Petronas
Pieridae Energy Canada
PNG Holdings
ProNav Ship Management
PTT LNG
Qatar Petroleum
Qatar Petroleum International
Queensland Gas Company Ltd
Remontowa
Repsol
Ronshong Heavy Industries Group
Royal Dutch Shell
Sabine Pass LNG
Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI)
Santos
Sasol
Sempra Energy
Shanghai Waigaogio Shipbuilding
Shell Australia
Shell Shipping
Shell Upstream Overseas Services
Shenghui Gas & Chemical Systems
Sinopec
Société Nationale des Hydrocarbures
Southern Energy
Sovcomflot Group (SCF)
Spectra Energy
State Oil Company of Azerbaijan (SOCAR)
Statoil
Stena Bulk
Stena Group
Stena LNG
Stena Redari
STX Corporation
STX Europe
STX Offshore and Shipbuilding
Taizhou Wuzhou Shipbuilding
Teekay LNG Partners
Teekay Shipping
TGE Marine
Thenamaris
Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO)
Tokyo Gas
Total
Total E&P Australia
Tsakos Energy
Tsakos Energy Navigation (TEN)
United Parcel Service (UPS)
Universal Shipbuilding
Universal Shipping
Veka Group
Veresen, Inc. and
Wärtsilä
Wavespec
Woodside
Xinjiang Guanghui

Notes for Editors

If you are interested in a more detailed overview of this report, please send an e-mail to sara.peerun@visiongainglobal.com or call her on +44-(0)-20-7336-6100

About visiongain

Visiongain is one of the fastest growing and most innovative independent media companies in Europe. Based in London, UK, visiongain produces a host of business-2-business conferences, newsletters, management reports and e-zines focusing on the Energy, Telecoms, Pharmaceutical, Defence, Materials sectors.

Visiongain publishes reports produced by its in-house analysts, who are qualified experts in their field. Visiongain has firmly established itself as the first port-of-call for the business professional, who needs independent, high quality, original material to rely and depend on.

Contact:
Email: Sara Peerun on sara.peerun@visiongainglobal.com
Tel: +44-(0)20-7336-6100


Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time
22 Jan 2013
15:04 'Global Oil & Gas Automation & Control Systems Market to be Worth $8.63bn in 2013' Says Visiongain Report







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There Are Only Two Reasons Why People Are On Facebook


A 2012 research from Boston University found out that there are only two primary motivations why most people are on Facebook.

1. The desire to belong and
2. The desire to show off.

Majority of those addicted to using Facebook use it for self promotion.
Narcissists and intellectually insecure people are often those posting and uploading loads of pictures and other trivia on their walls. Shy people frequent Facebook most, but they often have fewer "friends" compared to the more socially outgoing users who attract thousands of "fans" or "friends".

The findings, published in the journal Cyberpsychology, Behaviour And Social Networking, also suggested that those with low self-esteem also checked their Facebook pages more regularly than normal.

~ Daily Mail of UK.

The study showed a very important discovery among the users, that more principled, organized and achievement-orientated people are among the lowest users of Facebook. But most of them are on LinkedIn where you find the most professional members of the society. So, Facebook may be for dummies, but LinkedIn is for smart people.

"There are millions of fake profiles on Facebook and Twitter of people having duplicate accounts with different profiles and pages, but most people cannot do that on LinkedIn," said an expert on social media.


Facebook has been abused and misused by mostly idlers who spend hours on the social network hub to escape from boredom and depression and use Facebook as an antidepressant of some sorts.







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Monday, January 21, 2013

Chi Yufeng Honored as Chinese Culture Industry Figure of 2012


21 Jan 2013 08:34 Africa/Lagos

Chi Yufeng Honored as Chinese Culture Industry Figure of 2012

BEIJING, Jan. 21, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The much-anticipated list of award winners was officially announced at the Guangming New Year's Party and Chinese Culture Industry Figures of 2012 award ceremony that took place on the first of January. Perfect World chairman Chi Yufeng was present at the event and participated in a panel discussion with other leaders in the field. He was honored at event with the title of Chinese Culture Industry Figure of the Year.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20090416/CNTH023LOGO )

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130121/CN44803 )

As an iconic leader within the country's culture industry, Mr. Chi has been a major force at the forefront of the culture creative sector for years. He has been rated as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons in Chinese Software Industry, the Outstanding Young Entrepreneurs in Beijing and the Ten Excellent Entrepreneurs of Zhongguancun for his multi-faceted contributions. In addition, he is the founder of Hongen.com, an online university for 1.2 billion Chinese people, and has developed a series of computer learning applications including Kaitianpidi ("Epoch") and Wanshiwuyou ("No Worries"), as well as several English learning applications including Suixinsuoyu ("Doing what I enjoy"),Congxinkaishi ("Starting from the Beginning") and the Teddy English Story Series, together forming a full array of programs essential for computer novices and English learners of all levels.

Perfect World was founded in 2004 by Chi Yufeng and listed on NASDAQ in 2007. When asked how to disseminate knowledge about Chinese culture through games, Chi Yufeng pointed out, "We can provide an in-depth introduction to Chinese culture through online games, an example being our first game Perfect World, based on the screen play GuoZheng (Red Cliff ), which, in turn, was inspired by the Chinese classic Shan Hai Jing (The Classic of Mountains and Seas). These games serve as a medium to disseminate knowledge and an understanding of Chinese traditional culture. In addition, games including Legend of the Eagle Shooting Hero and The Smiling, Proud Wanderer which we will launch in 2013 will help promote the chivalrous spirit inherent in Chinese culture." The company has already made its games available in more than 100 countries and regions worldwide, with such exports accounting for nearly 40 percent of the country's total exports of online games. The company has ranked 1st in terms of exports among Chinese online game developers for 5 consecutive years.

Mr. Chi shifted his focus to the film and television sector in 2010 by taking part in the production of several blockbusters including The Piano in a Factory, Love is Not Blind, Beijing Youth and Legend of Chu and Han. The productions have received premier film and television awards in China including the Magnolia Award and Golden Rooster Award. These role transitions help Mr. Chi gain a deeper understanding of China's culture industry. It goes without saying that he is deserving of the title and the award is of great significance to him.

SOURCE Perfect World Co., Ltd.

CONTACT: Xiaoyu Gao, +86-10-57801723, gaoxiaoyu01818@pwrd.com or Yongjian Tang, +86-10-57801207, tangyongjian@pwrd.com

Web Site: http://www.pwrd.com







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Boko Haram Re-brands as JAMBS, Uses DesertHerald for PR


Boko Haram Re-brands as JAMBS, Uses DesertHerald for PR

21st Jan. 2013

It has been noticed by the MuslimsAgainstTerror association, that the same dreadful Boko Haram terrorist cult, based in the Kanuri North Eastern section of Nigeria has re-branded and repackaged itself as JAMBS (JAMA’ATU ANSARUL MUSLIMINA FI BILADIS-SUDAN). A Northern online publication, DesertHerald has been single-handly promoting this re-branding of the terrorist sect responsible for hundreds of deaths in Nigeria.

Our analysts believe that the obvious decline in popularity of Boko Haram, and their association with various barbaric assaults and deaths of innocent Nigerians, Muslim, Christian and the like in Nigeria, attracting harsh rebuke from Muslims and Christians, including scholars, Muslim groups like ourselves, the MuslimsAgainstTerror and the northern citizenry, provoked a re-thinking by the group and decision to re-brand with the hope of soliciting some public support and hindering the cooperation of Nigeria’s God fearing and peace loving masses.

www.Newsrescue.com a Nigerian investigative journal that first broke the cannibalism of Muslim brothers in Jos by Berom people, earlier reported an unusual article published by the DesertHerald in which the online publication was surprisingly justifying a Boko Haram aka JAMBS attack of the SARS security unit in Abuja. We have included that publication at the end of this release.

Boko Haram, we know you. You can call yourselves whatever you wish. You are the same dirty Munafiqis, who the noble prophet of Islam warned us will rise from within Muslim ranks and will cause harj and harj at the later days. Allah’s wrath is upon you. As JAMBS or anything else. Wallahi your days are numbers and also the days of all those who support the insult that you bring to our noble Deen.

Nigeria and global media must stop peddling the harmful agenda of these desperate cultists. The media must be astute and desist from aiding them in their wicked and insane plans and manipulations. Not everything must be published, this is common sense.

Desertherald has remained the only news platform that Boko Haram aka JAMBS uses to communicate its press releases. The re-branded group’s first public press release was also exclusively reported by DesertHerald. It is puzzling how Boko Haram and DesertHerald have developed this love and symbiotic co-promotional relationship.


Img source: Newsrescue

Boko Haram aka JAMBS 2 days ago, attacked Nigerian troops en-route Mali as part of an African peace -keeping force. They were successful in killing two soldiers and injuring 5 more. They have since moved to Kaduna, where the Nigerian troops also went en-route Mali.

Our brothers believe that the re-branding of this terrorist cult comes amidst a successful security and public campaign against their nefarious operation,. Which has led to the capture of many of their tactical commanders and their sponsors, senators and other top level shameless people. The public has been fed-up with Boko Haram/JAMBS who have made life in North Nigeria a living hell.

Please see publication:

Nigeria: SARS Is Worse Than Boko Haram – DesertHerald

Dec 6th, 2012

NewsRescue- A Nigerian news website and magazine has described the SARS (Special Anti-Robbery Squad) security division as worse than Boko Haram.

In an article posted by the online edition, DesertHerald said:

SARS operatives have today become more dangerous to the people than even Boko Haram and it forms part of the reason why most people keep a distance from the police. And it is one of those reasons that Boko Haram insurgency has defied solutions because of SARS brutality and extortion. Those released from SARS detention turn back to plan revenge after release while majority prepare to even join Boko Haram for a revenge of what they experienced from those that are paid to protect them.

It would be recalled that the SARS office in Abuja was attacked by unknown gunmen who sprung some prisoners out of its cells on the evening of Monday, 26th November 2012.

This attack by unknown gunmen was later reported by the same DesertHerald, who claimed they had received an exclusive message immediately after the attack, stating that the attack had been carried out by a new terrorist organization, JAMBS (Jama’atu Ansasrul Muslimina fi Biladissudan), who had earlier in the year sent an exclusive letter to DesertHerald, according to the editorial, announcing the groups inglorious inauguration.

In the DesertHerald exclusive, the alleged new group claimed to be a Robin-Hood of sorts, justifying its attack of the SARS headquarters as being based on “emancipation of the suffering.”

DesertHerald is notorious for breaking stories from Northern extremists, many at times before any other media or organization even has an idea of these stories. For some funny reason, it appears “JAMBS” chooses DesertHerald as their sole means of communication to the outside world.

DesertHerald recently entertained a visit from the Canadian delegation in Nigeria, who thumped the editorial for its ‘investigative journalism.’ See: DesertHerald: Canadian High Commissioner’s historic visit to DESERT HERALD: Canada to support Nigeria in curbing terrorism – Ambassador Cooter

In what could read as a justification of the acts of this so-called new group, while describing the reasons why SARS is “worse than Boko Haram,” DeserHerald in what it called “the hidden facts behind the attack,” further said:

SARS Headquarters attack: The Hidden facts!

The squad has branches in the 36 states of the federation including Abuja in most cases funded by the various state governments. Over the years, the organization systematically became a replica of its former self and turned to an extortion outfit that has outlived its usefulness to the people.

Several reports reveal that apart from human rights abuses, there are cases of extortion of suspects and their relations while bail of suspects either in detention or under arrest is obtained at fixed amount depending on the nature of crime committed. For instance, it was revealed that armed robbery suspects are bailed at over N1million while bail ‘fee’ for other minor crimes range from N500,000 and above depending on the bargaining capacity of suspect’s relations.

Although, the office of the Inspector-General is confirmed to have been disbursing monthly feeding allowances of suspects in police detention nationwide, in most police stations across the country and Abuja SARS headquarters, such allowances are diverted and the burden of feeding suspects rests on the shoulders of their relations including medication for the period they are detained.

While relations are forced to accept the corrupt practice without complaining as making any complain may attract a negative response, they are also forced to grease the palms of guards at the various cells before the food and medication they brought could reach their relations languishing in cells.

Not only that, black marketers within Abuja and other places are subjects of extortion and brutality. In most cases, SARS operatives storm their operational locations to cart away drums and jerry cans of fuel to compel owners to report for collection and be subjected to various degrees of extortion and intimidations including threats to their lives. Before any black marketer is allowed entry into SARS premises in Abuja to press for his case, he is forced to pay an entry fee at both gates.
Starving suspects without relations in Abuja languishing in SARS cells is no more news as dead bodies are thrown out daily because of hunger, torture and other brutal acts from those who are expected to take care of the unfortunate ‘innocent’ citizens.

SALAM

Signed by the MuslimsAgainstTerror.com







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Sunday, January 20, 2013

Wole Soyinka Speaks Of Africa in New Book


A member of the unique generation of African writers and intellectuals who came of age in the last days of colonialism, Wole Soyinka has witnessed the promise of independence and lived through postcolonial failure. He deeply comprehends the pressing problems of Africa, and, an irrepressible essayist and a staunch critic of the oppressive boot, he unhesitatingly speaks out.

In this magnificent new work, Soyinka offers a wide-ranging inquiry into Africa's culture, religion, history, imagination, and identity. He seeks to understand how the continent's history is entwined with the histories of others, while exploring Africa's truest assets: "its humanity, the quality and valuation of its own existence, and modes of managing its environment—both physical and intangible (which includes the spiritual)."


Fully grasping the extent of Africa's most challenging issues, Soyinka nevertheless refuses defeatism. With eloquence he analyzes problems ranging from the meaning of the past to the threat of theocracy. He asks hard questions about racial attitudes, inter-ethnic and religious violence, the viability of nations whose boundaries were laid out by outsiders, African identity on the continent and among displaced Africans, and more. Soyinka's exploration of Africa relocates the continent in the reader's imagination and maps a course toward an African future of peace and affirmation.



“The Nigerian 1986 Nobel Laureate (Literature) offers a slender, hopeful volume about his native continent’s potential for healing the world’s spiritual ills. . . . A brief but eloquent plea for peace.”—Kirkus Reviews
(Kirkus Reviews )

“A fascinating, urgent appraisal of Africa’s relationship to the world. . . . Pitched to a general reader but with implications for specialists as well, this is necessarily big thinking laced with the subtle insights and analogies of a gifted writer, and a stirring defense of the ‘spiritual aspirations’ of human beings for freedom and peace.”—Publishers Weekly
(Publishers Weekly )

"Of Africa is an intellectually robust, book-length essay that attempts to unravel the paradoxes and contradictions plaguing Nigeria and, by extension, Africa. . . . Soyinka’s motivation for writing Of Africa was his search for an African humanism that could counter the deadly consequences of religious fanaticism. He urges Africans to remember their continent’s traditions and recognize that tolerance is at the center of African spirituality.”—George Ayittey, Wall Street Journal
(George Ayittey Wall Street Journal 20121103)

“Among the Africans who deserve some kind of secular sainthood is Wole So­yinka. . . . Vast injustices remain [in Africa], but the continent is lucky to have fearless men and women of conscience, like Soyinka, who are so acutely aware of them.”—Adam Hochschild, New York Times Book Review
(Adam Hochschild New York Times Book Review 20121104)

 “Soyinka does not deceive himself about the profound problems that Africa faces today. But [the book’s] overall tenor . . . is optimistic, emphasizing Africa’s capacity to inspire authentic spirituality (the continent, he reminds us, is ‘filled with religions that point the way to the harmonization of faiths’) and resilient, life-embracing humanity.”—Booklist
(Booklist 20121115)

“The playwright and human rights activist defends Africa against its condescending critics, offering both sweeping reflections and clear-eyed assessments.”—Editors’ Choice, New York Times Book Review
(New York Times Book Review )

Of Africa offers a well-conceived vision for the potential healing of the continent. . . . Soyinka's inquiry arrives at one impassioned plea--tolerance. Africa's various sects, he tells us, must come to the collective bargaining table with an embrace of its tradition and innate differences in order to truly become whole.”—Nancy Powell, Shelf Awareness
(Nancy Powell Shelf Awareness )

Soyinka's perspective “is helpful in guiding readers to a different way of looking at much that is Africa, and, as such, Of Africa is an eloquent and useful starting point for readers.”—M. A. Orthofer, The Complete Review
(M. A. Orthofer The Complete Review )

“The Nobel laureate and Nigerian playwright tries to rescue Africa from racism, ignorance, and stereotype in this forceful manifesto.”—The Daily Beast
(The Daily Beast 20121112)










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Bing Brings More of Facebook to Search



Bing Brings More of Facebook to Search

Bing is the only search engine to bring your Facebook friends into your search.


REDMOND, Wash. — Jan. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — With every search that people do, Bing believes there is a person out there who can help you make a decision. This is why Bing lets you tap into the wisdom of friends and experts in the social sidebar. Starting today, you will see an average of five times more Facebook content in the sidebar, including status updates, shared links, comments and photos from your friends. Bing is the only search engine where you can find relevant search results along with the people who can help you make a decision – so you can spend more time doing and less time searching.

Say you’re thinking about making your first trip to Coachella and decide to research it online. When using Bing, you will find not only great search results about the festival, such as when it is and how to get there, but also pictures, posts, comments and more from your friends who attended the festival in the past. Now you know all there is to know about Coachella and which of your friends might have the inside scoop or, better yet, want to join you. Bing doesn’t stop there. It will also show you advice from experts across Twitter, Foursquare, Quora, Klout, Google+ and more to help you make the most of your trip.

Want to try it out? Getting a little help from your friends is only a step away. Visit Bing, click on Connect to Facebook, and you’re good to go! As you would expect, Bing lets you control what you share and respects your Facebook privacy settings.

What are you waiting for? Stop searching alone, and let Bing put your social network to work! Sign in to Facebook at http://www.Bing.com to experience the benefits of social search.

About Bing
Bing is the search engine from Microsoft, designed for people who do. For people like you who are always doing more and don’t have time to sit still. Now, only Bing brings together the best search and the best people from your social networks, like Facebook and Twitter, to help you spend less time searching and more time doing. So whether you’re on your PC or on your phone, Bing is designed not just to connect you to the information you are looking for, but also to help you get things done right on Bing.com.

About Microsoft
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

BOOKS WE LOVE.



Because the prophet lied
Thousands have died
And thousands more will follow
Because of the lies of this strange fellow
.

~ Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima


THE PROPHET LIED is a kaleidoscopic time capsule in poetry. From the first poem to the last one, Chima’s eclecticism runs like blood through the veins as he addresses all the issues of life on earth from the classic temporal to the spiritual in all existential circumstances with provocative thoughts and evocative figures of speech on every facet and aspect of what transpires in our contemporary world. He is an unapologetic historian of his beloved country Nigeria and a romantic philosopher of the vicissitudes of life. The power of his poetry is his compelling vocabulary and captivating imagery as he loses no sight of every human experience and so he misses nothing with a poetic sense of humour. The Prophet Lied may take Chima into the pantheon of modern poetry for the classical nature of his literature makes it a timeless...
Lulu Sales Rank: 57130
ISBN: 9781300523611







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Saturday, January 19, 2013

Nigeria’s Andrew Dosunmu’s Mother of George World Première at Sundance Film Festival


Nigeria’s Andrew Dosunmu’s Mother of George and seven other films sponsored by JustFilms (the Ford Foundation's social justice film fund) have been selected for competition and premiere at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, the world's leading showcase for independent filmmaking. The following are the details of Dosunmu’s film and the complete news release on all the eight films.



2012, 106 minutes, color, U.S.A., U.S. Dramatic
At long last, handsome Ayodele Balogun, owner of a small Nigerian restaurant in Brooklyn, will wed his beautiful fiancée, Adenike, and they will start a new life together in the United States. Their traditional Yoruba wedding culminates in a ceremony where Adenike is named for her yet-to-be-conceived son, George. But as the months pass without pregnancy, Ma George is torn between her Yoruba culture and her new life in America as she faces uncomfortable and unfamiliar choices in her struggle to save her marriage.

Director Andrew Dosunmu returns to the Sundance Film Festival (his film, Restless City, screened in 2011) with this astonishingly radiant portrait of Nigerian immigrant family life. Featuring soulful performances by Isaach De Bankolé and Danai Gurira, and opulent cinematography by the award-winning Bradford Young, Mother of George is a singular cinematic accomplishment that elevates this illustration of the complicated challenges of African immigrant life to a place of beauty and reverence. - S. F.

About the Director
Dosunmu’s first narrative feature, Restless City, premiered at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival in the NEXT program. His documentary Hot Irons (1999) won the best documentary award at FESPACO, the Panafrican Film and Television Festival at Ouagadougou, and the Reel Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. Dosunmu has also directed episodes of the widely acclaimed South African television show Yizo Yizo and many music videos.

Cast and Credits:

Director: Andrew Dosunmu

Screenwriter: Darci Picoult

Producers: Lars Knudsen, Jay Van Hoy, Matt Parker, Carly Hugo, Darci Picoult, Chris Maybach, Saemi Kim, Patrick Cunningham, Tony Okungbowa
Cinematographer: Bradford Young
Editor: Oriana Soddu
Production Designer: Lucio Seixas
Composer: Philip Miller
Costume Designer: Mobolaji Dawodu
Principal Cast: Isaach De Bankolé, Danai Gurira, Tony Okungbowa, Yaya Alafia, Bukky Ajayi
Contact: Katelyn Bogacki / Strategy PR / katelyn.bogacki@strategypr.net

18 Jan 2013 18:10 Africa/Lagos

Ford Foundation JustFilms Supports Eight Films Set for World Premiere at Sundance Film Festival

Initiative supports works that address urgent social issues

NEW YORK, Jan. 18, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- JustFilms, the Ford Foundation's social justice film fund, is providing major support to eight independent films selected for competition and premiere at the Sundance Film Festival, the world's leading showcase for independent filmmaking.

Launched in 2011, JustFilms fosters film and media makers who are creating passionate and purposeful narratives. Film is an ideal medium to present a wide range of complex issues in a way that engages and inspires. Over the course of two years, JustFilms has given grants totaling $20 million to hundreds of exceptionally talented individuals and has partnered with numerous organizations such as the Sundance Institute, ITVS, HBO, Tribeca Film Institute, the Princess Grace Foundation and many others.

One of the five JustFilms-funded projects that premiered at last year's Sundance Film Festival, "How to Survive a Plague," has been nominated for a 2013 Academy Award in the category of Best Documentary Feature. This powerful, inspiring movie exemplifies film's ability to educate and motivate.

"We are constantly thinking of ways to inspire and bring attention to the intractable issues of our time," said Darren Walker, vice president of Ford's Education, Creativity and Free Expression program. "Our JustFilms initiative seeks inventive ways to creatively, financially and programmatically support underrepresented and deserving filmmakers who highlight courageous people confronting difficult issues and actively pursuing a more just, secure and sustainable world."

The Ford Foundation works with many partners in an effort to lift up worthy films during the long cycle of production. In addition to the films that received major support from the Ford Foundation, twelve films premiering at this year's festival were produced by the foundation in collaboration with the Sundance Documentary Film Program. A partnership with ITVS yielded "Fallen City" by Qi Zhao, furthering the international perspective of JustFilms. And the film "When I Walk," a moving chronicle of filmmaker Jason DaSilva's experience of learning to live with multiple sclerosis, received a finishing grant from the Princess Grace Foundation in support of South East Asian American filmmakers, funded by the Ford Foundation for this very purpose.

"Through collaboration with our valued partners we endeavor to find support for under-represented and deserving filmmakers," said Orlando Bagwell, director of Ford's JustFilms initiative. "The fruits of those labors are on display at International Festivals like Sundance, in creative and dramatic films that bring social justice issues to the forefront."

The Ford Foundation's JustFilms initiative builds on the foundation's longtime support for scores of documentaries, including such landmark productions as "Eyes on the Prize," "State of Fear" and "Why Democracy" It also leverages the foundation's global network of 10 regional offices to identify and lift new talent from around the world and to strengthen emerging communities of documentary filmmakers.

The eight films premiering at the Sundance Film Festival with major financial support from JustFilms are:

American Promise (US Documentary Competition)
Directors: Joe Brewster and Michele Stephenson
As two African-American boys journey from kindergarten through high school graduation at an elite prep school, they encounter hurdles both in and out of the classroom.

Citizen Koch (US Documentary Competition)
Directors: Carl Deal and Tia Lessin
Following the 2010 Supreme Court decision Citizens United, corporate money played a political role during a contentious decision on organized labor in the state of Wisconsin.

Gideon's Army (US Documentary Competition)
Director: Dawn Porter
Three young public defenders in the Deep South face long hours, heavy caseloads and minimal resources in their efforts to ensure that justice is served.

God Loves Uganda (US Documentary Competition)
Director: Roger Ross Williams
With values imported from America's Christian Right, missionaries in Uganda attempt to eliminate "sexual sin" and advance anti-gay legislation.

Mother of George (US Dramatic Competition)
Director: Andrew Dosunmu
One immigrant struggles to balance the expectations of her native Basotho culture and the opportunities of her new life in America.

Outlawed in Pakistan (Shorts Competition)
Directors: Habiba Nosheen and Hilke Schellmann
Pakistani teenager Kainat Soomro, accuses four men from her village of gang-raping her. She takes her case to the Pakistani courts and faces a deeply flawed criminal justice system.

Valentine Road (US Documentary Competition)
Director: Marta Cunningham
In 2008 a 8th grader's murder of his classmate shocked the nation. But both the murderer and the victim had troubled lives that complicate our very notion of justice.

Who is Dayani Cristal? (US Documentary Competition)
Director: Marc Silver
After one migrant finds himself in a deadly stretch of Arizona desert known as "the corridor of death," his life becomes testimony to the tragic results of the U.S. war on immigration.

JustFilms will also host two panel discussions at the Sundance Festival, at which filmmakers and others will focus on the medium's ability to foment change.

Turning the Tide (Friday, January 18, 1-2:30 pm)

Changing the direction of national discourse can seem an impossible task, but sometimes film can inspire a sea change. From immigration to health to the economy, this year's films suggest that political dialogue is inextricably bound to cultural expression. Artists and activists Pablo Larrain (No), Gael Garcia Bernal (Who Is Dayani Cristal?, No), Jehane Noujaim (The Square) and Robert Reich (Inequality for All) join moderator Orlando Bagwell (Ford Foundation JustFilms) to explore the ways film can activate grassroots campaigns that alter the course of history.

OP-DOCS (Tuesday, January 22, 4-6 pm)

Op-Docs is The New York Times editorial department's forum for short, opinionated documentaries, created by both renowned and emerging filmmakers, and produced with wide creative latitude and a range of artistic styles, covering current affairs, contemporary life and historical subjects. Filmmakers Heidi Ewing (Detropia), Laura Poitras ( The Oath), Dawn Porter (Gideon's Army) and Roger Ross Williams ( God Loves Uganda ) join Orlando Bagwell (Ford Foundation JustFilms) and Jason Spingarn-Koff (The New York Times) to discuss the new frontiers of online documentaries and the intersection of filmmaking and opinion journalism.

MORE INFORMATION

To view the films the Ford Foundation has supported over its history, visit the foundation's Film Collection.

Learn more about JustFilms' strategy and partners, and explore its grant making.

The Ford Foundation is an independent, nonprofit grant-making organization. For more than 75 years it has worked with courageous people on the frontlines of social change worldwide, guided by its mission to strengthen democratic values, reduce poverty and injustice, promote international cooperation, and advance human achievement. With headquarters in New York, the foundation has offices in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

SOURCE Ford Foundation

CONTACT: Joshua Cinelli, j.cinelli@fordfoundation.org, +1-212-573-5128, www.fordfoundation.org

Web Site: http://www.fordfoundation.org







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