Month: October 2018

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Press release: Mark Field in Malaysia to deepen bilateral ties ahead of Brexit

The UK’s Minister for Asia and the Pacific, Mark Field, will arrive in Malaysia today (2 October) for a visit focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship, discussing regional and global mutual interests, and deepening business links.

During his three-day programme, which will take in Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang, the Minister will meet Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs YB Dato’ Marzuki Yahya.

They will discuss regional and global interests and security matters, as well as our mutual values as partner members of the Commonwealth.

Mr Field will also discuss counter terrorism and extremism with Deputy Home Affairs Minister Datuk Aziz Jamman and see Minister of Education Dr. Maszlee Malik and Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Minister for Asia and the Pacific Mark Field said:

The UK and Malaysia enjoy a strong and enduring relationship, with many shared interests, such as advancing our prosperity, security and mutual values. As we leave the EU, we are determined to deepen our important relationship with Malaysia, as well as securing a strong, fruitful partnership with the rest of ASEAN.

The UK wants to collaborate with emerging economies, which is why we have committed £1.2 billion pounds to contribute to inclusive economic development through the Prosperity Fund. Malaysia is included in the design of the Fund’s global £75 million Skills and £79 million Health programmes, and I very much look forward to watching these projects flourish.

During his visit, the Minister will also meet opposition and civil society leaders, as well as young people and alumni from the Chevening programme.

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Link: Press release: Mark Field in Malaysia to deepen bilateral ties ahead of Brexit
Source: Gov Press Releases

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Press release: Foreign Secretary statement on Macedonia referendum

At yesterday’s referendum in Macedonia voters showed their desire to resolve the long-standing dispute with neighbouring Greece over the country’s name and take a positive step towards Euro-Atlantic integration. If implemented, the Prespa Agreement would improve stability in Macedonia and the wider region.

Speaking after the vote, the Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said:

Although turnout was below expectations, this referendum was a positive step for Macedonia. Voters in Macedonia have made clear their wish to be part of the Euro-Atlantic community and I call on Prime Minister Zaev and his government to work with parliament to build consensus around the future of the country.

I believe that implementation of the Prespa Agreement will be good for Macedonia and good for the region. It offers the prospect of greater security and prosperity and better opportunities for Macedonia’s young people. It also allows Macedonia to serve as an example to the region of what can be achieved with courage, determination and a vision for the future.

The UK is proud to be a longstanding friend and partner of Macedonia. We look forward to this partnership enduring and strengthening in the future. And we look forward, in particular, to the day when we will be NATO allies – the door is still open.

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Link: Press release: Foreign Secretary statement on Macedonia referendum
Source: Gov Press Releases

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Press release: £5m Youth Performance Partnerships to boost performing arts

Five Youth Performance Partnerships will be created in England to give young people greater access to the performing arts, Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Jeremy Wright has announced.

The scheme will bring arts organisations and schools together to teach practical performance skills both on and off stage, including drama, dance, art, creative writing, lighting, sound and set design.

Primary and secondary schools will also be linked up with playwrights to give children the opportunity to perform new works by up and coming writers.

The Youth Performance Partnerships will be delivered by Arts Council England over three academic years and will reach 10,000 young people.

The Arts Council will select one partnership in the North, the Midlands, South West, South East and London, and prioritise places where not enough young people have the chance to take part in performance.

The Partnerships build on the success of Music Education Hubs which helps over 600,000 children a year access activities like playing an instrument, singing in a choir or joining a band.

Link: Press release: £5m Youth Performance Partnerships to boost performing arts
Source: Gov Press Releases