FM Gedion Discusses Digital Futures With UN Under-Secretary-General

FM Gedion Discusses Digital Futures With UN Under-Secretary-General







On April 1, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos welcomed United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies Amandeep Singh Gill to his office in Addis Ababa.
(Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 — ENA)











During this event, Gill urged for Ethiopia’s inclusion in the new UN initiative focused on digitalization and artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the importance of its proactive participation.











The recently launched UN initiative focusing on digital and emerging technologies aims to create an enhanced regulatory structure for AI and strengthen capabilities in this area.











The Foreign Minister Gedion pointed out that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has already begun establishing entities like the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute to stress the significance of digitization for the country’s progress.











The Minister further stated that Ethiopia is dedicated to playing an active role as a crucial member of the recently initiated program.






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UIDAI’s AI-Driven Aadhaar Face Recognition Hits 130 Crore Transactions, Reshaping Biometrics

UIDAI’s AI-Driven Aadhaar Face Recognition Hits 130 Crore Transactions, Reshaping Biometrics

New Delhi [India], April 1 (ANI): The AI and ML-based Aadhaar facial authentication solutions, created internally by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), have been developed.
UIDAI
It has experienced significant expansion, as more than 78 percent of all transactions occurred through this platform during the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, according to an announcement made by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology on Tuesday.

Since the
face authentication
The solution was launched in October 2022.
UIDAI
Has logged a total transaction count exceeding 130.5 crore, with nearly 102 crores transacted within the fiscal year 2024-25. This reflects the increasing utilization and acceptance of this service, smoothly enhancing benefits for Aadhaar number holders.

Over the last three months (January-March), approximately 39.5 crores were involved.
face authentication
Transactions have been logged. Specifically, in March, facial authentication solutions documented over 15.25 crores of transactions, marking a 21.6 percent increase from the prior month.

This accomplishment highlights the confidence and widespread use of this novel biometric verification method across various industries such as financial technology, banking, and telecoms.

Many governmental services provided by central and state authorities utilize this system for efficiently delivering benefits to specific recipients. Numerous key initiatives such as PM Avas (Urban), PM E-Hrushti, PM-JAY, PM-Ujjwala, PM-Kisan, and PM Internship Program rely on Aadhaar for their operations.
face authentication
.

Facial recognition is also serving as a reliable substitute and assisting elderly individuals and anyone facing difficulties with fingerprint quality because of various factors such as physical labor or health problems.

Currently, 102 organizations from both governmental and private sectors are utilizing Aadhaar.
face authentication
This AI-driven feature functions across both Android and iOS platforms. It safeguards against video replay attacks and static image verification efforts from malicious individuals. Additionally, it operates without physical contact and can be accessed at any time and location, according to the announcement.

This authentication modality enables users to verify their identity with just a face scan, ensuring convenience while upholding stringent security standards, the release added. (ANI)

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Will Europe’s Agriculture Embrace New Genomic Techniques?

Will Europe’s Agriculture Embrace New Genomic Techniques?

During the latter part of the 20th century, genetic material from various organisms was inserted into seeds, resulting in what we now call Genetically Modified Organisms, or GMOs. This technological approach aims at cultivating plants that are more robust and capable of higher yields.

Roughly twenty years ago, the European Union established stringent regulations governing authorization, labeling, and risk evaluation. However, recently it has suggested loosening these controls regarding New Genomic Techniques, which alter the genetic makeup of plants themselves.

“The European Commission has opted to establish two classifications: one for items derived from these advanced methods and another for those produced using traditional approaches, which will adhere to current regulations. Nevertheless, certain individuals believe that these novel forms of genetically modified organisms may pose similar hazards as their predecessors, potentially leading to unforeseen consequences for the ecosystem,” says Robert Hodgson, reporting on this topic for Euronews.

The dispute is expected to heat up once more since the governments from the 27 member countries have come to an accord regarding the proposition this month. Now, these ministers must achieve a unified stance alongside the European Parliament, despite differing viewpoints on contentious topics like patents and labeling.

During a brief visit to multiple cities, Euronews gathered some European viewpoints. “I am not entirely opposed to it. Conducting comprehensive studies to assess whether it has any adverse effects would be crucial,” remarked a person from Berlin.

“Over the past few decades, significant progress has been made in this technology, yet we still lack complete mastery over it,” stated another individual from Warsaw (Poland).

“It is essential for them to be labeled so that consumers can make an informed decision. Personally, I would not purchase them,” stated a pedestrian in Lyon (France).

Experts in biotechnology contend that these plant varieties will exhibit greater resilience against drought, pests, and necessitate reduced use of fertilizers. They are also addressing health concerns like allergies by developing low-gluten grain options, for instance.

Critics highlight the dangers: interference with pollinators, potential pollution of organic crops, limited seed availability for small-scale farmers, and unknown impacts on human well-being.

Could patents result in the exclusion of small farmers?

The European Council was split regarding the approval of patents, with discussions centered around potential limitations these might impose on farmers’ options and the possibility of forming monopolies. It required nearly a year before they reached an agreement to permit patents, provided that certain specified reporting conditions were fulfilled.

One of the shadow rapporteurs overseeing the legislation stated that the European Parliament’s stance is to entirely prohibit patents.

“If several major global agricultural chemical companies monopolize seed production, farmers will face higher costs, lose their ability to make choices, and worst of all, genuine innovation in crop varieties will come to an end,” stated Christophe Clergeau, a French centre-left MEP.

Only a few member states have demonstrated significant interest in GM crops, with Spain being an outlier. Many nations have gone so far as to ban these technologies outright, allowing governments to exercise their choice to opt out. However, this might not remain possible for every category of such products.

Approximately ten years back, this matter turned into a significant political concern, particularly with considerable public resistance across Europe. The governments called for an exemption and received one,” clarifies Hodgson, further stating: “Since the plants in this new classification will essentially mirror typical naturally occurring plants, authorities won’t have the choice to prohibit their growth anymore.

Politician Clergeau emphasizes that they are just starting with this innovative technology, asserting that the EU needs to proceed cautiously since “intervening in nature can lead to chains of alterations which might threaten biodiversity.”

A whole new realm of opportunities is quickly emerging in the field of food production, as scientists are now investigating the application of generative artificial intelligence to this sector. As expected, this development has sparked some debate!


Watch the video here!


Journalist: Isabel Marques da Silva


Content creation: Pilar Montero López


Video production: Zacharia Vigneron


Graphism: Loredana Dumitru


Editorial coordination: Ana Lázaro Bosch and Jeremy Fleming-Jones

Honda’s Ongoing EV Motorcycle Concepts: What’s the Holdup on Their Release?

Honda’s Ongoing EV Motorcycle Concepts: What’s the Holdup on Their Release?

The WH8000D, also known as “E-VO,” is an additional option for electric commuters. Let’s hope it goes into production soon.

While new manufacturers are going all-in on
electric motorcycles
, bigger brands like
Honda
,
Yamaha
, and
Ducati
They are adopting a cautious strategy. This doesn’t mean they’re opposed to electric vehicles—they aren’t at all. Rather, they are meticulously gauging the market, making sure they do not race ahead of consumer demand and risk meeting the same end as multiple start-ups that grew rapidly only to crumble equally swiftly.

This is why we’re observing careful yet steady moves from these major players instead of a complete shift towards electrification.

Honda has been inching toward electrification, focusing heavily on practical and scalable solutions rather than diving headfirst into high-performance electric motorcycles. A prime example of this is its
Mobile Power Pack e:
, a replaceable battery system created specifically for scooters and lightweight motorcycles. The EM1 e: model, introduced in 2023, serves as an instance tailored towards city dwellers seeking convenience and user-friendly features.

Next, we had the ideas that Honda hinted at.
EICMA
. The
EV Fun
was a sleek electric sports car featuring bold, aggressively styled design elements reminiscent of naked motorcycles, whereas the Urban concept suggested a more functional urban scooter, akin to
BMW’s CE-04
Both indicated that Honda is looking beyond just scooters and moving towards motorcycles that offer an enjoyable riding experience while remaining practical for daily commuting.

Honda Mobile Power Pack E:

The most recent indication of Honda’s commitment to electric motorcycles originates from its Chinese partnership, Wuyang-Honda. This firm has lately obtained approval for a new model designated as the WH8000D, featuring designs that imply it will likely be marketed under the title “E-VO.”

First reported by
Cycle World
’s Ben Purvis
The WH8000D represents a significant shift from Honda’s earlier electric vehicles. In contrast to the EM1 e: and other electric scooters, this model is a genuine motorcycle rather than merely a larger-motor version of a step-through design.

Photo by: Honda

Is this potentially the slickest electric Honda motorcycle to date—if it proceeds to production?

The WH8000D may not qualify as a superbike, yet it promises to be a enjoyable option for navigating through city streets with hints of sports appeal. This bicycle comes equipped with an 8 kW (approximately 11 horsepower) engine, which might seem modest at first glance; however, this represents the sustained power output—the peak performance can be notably greater. According to these figures, it should handle comparably to a 150cc petrol-driven motorcycle, making it agile and suitable for bustling urban environments and maybe even occasional spirited rides along winding roads.

In terms of size, it doesn’t seem to be a full-sized model but more likely an electric upgrade to Honda’s Mini-Moto series. From what I can tell, it’s roughly the same dimensions as a
Grom
or
CFMoto Papio
And I’m betting that it will appeal to occasional riders, people who commute, and perhaps even those into stunts.

Cycle World
The report indicates that two variations of the bicycle have received approval: a more lightweight model weighing 143 kilograms (315 pounds), capable of reaching speeds up to 110 kilometers per hour (68 miles per hour); and a slightly heavier version at 157 kilograms (345 pounds) which can achieve speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour (75 miles per hour). These performance metrics place this electric commuting bike in line with numerous compact-displacement gasoline-powered counterparts.

The WH8000D—dubbed E-VO based on the label visible on the fairing—is not positioned to compete with top-tier electric motorcycles such as those produced by Zero. Rather, it seems destined to become an attractive urban bicycle designed for individuals seeking both enjoyment and functionality for everyday riding. Featuring a fully faired café racer design, this model boasts greater visual flair compared to standard electric scooters known for their functional yet plain appearance. This enhanced style might particularly appeal to young riders searching for a distinctive mode of transportation ideal for showcasing on social media platforms like Instagram.

Honda’s Mobile Power Pack e: energizes tourist boats in Japan.

A major question about this bicycle concerns its potential usage of Honda’s swappable Mobile Power Pack e:. Honda has significantly committed resources to develop battery-swapping facilities in nations such as Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand. The company employs the Power Pack e: for various applications ranging from small scooters to heavy machinery, including construction equipment, and even
tourist boats
Therefore, extending that ecosystem to include a motorcycle like the E-VO is quite logical.

Despite this, specifics about the E-VO’s battery configuration are still hazy. Should Honda opt for its current technology, it might position the E-VO as one of the more user-friendly electric bikes available, enabling bikers to swiftly replace an empty battery rather than enduring long charging times. This feature could significantly benefit city dwellers looking for a hassle-free electric vehicle for their everyday travel needs.

Although Honda might not be hastily entering the electric motorcycle market with top-tier sport bikes, they are undoubtedly establishing a foundation for their future electric vehicle plans. If the E-VO becomes available globally, it could play a crucial role in this strategic layout.

For the time being, we must await official statements; however, this represents an encouraging move towards a broader range of electric vehicles from Honda. While it may fall short of our ideal electric sports bike, the E-VO emerges as a sleek and functional choice for urban commuters considering making the transition to electric bikes.

Charging Up The Future

  • Can-Am’s Latest Electric Bikes Have Earned Some Prestigious Design Awards, Well-deserving
  • Polaris’ Forthcoming Electric Snowmobile Boasts F1 Tech; Take a Look Before Its Debut

Source:
Cycle World

India’s Growing Footprint at Arabian Travel Market 2025

India’s Growing Footprint at Arabian Travel Market 2025

ATK

New Delhi [India], March 31: India plans to showcase its significant role at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 (ATM Dubai), reinforcing its status as a global frontrunner in outbound tourism. The delegation will be headed by the Ministry of
Tourism
In India, the country aims to showcase its expanding role in the global travel and hospitality sector at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

India’s Rising Profile in Worldwide Tourism and Hotel Industry

As per the latest reports, India’s outbound tourism sector is anticipated to hit $55 billion by 2034, playing a crucial role in this field. As an increasing number of Indians explore international locations, Dubai remains among the top choices for travelers, attracting several million visitors each year.

Arabian Travel Market Dubai is an important platform for India to enhance its travel partnership and accelerate the promotion of tourism prospects.

ATM 2025: “Worldwide Travel: Shaping Tomorrow’s Future”
Tourism
Through Enhanced Connectivity”

The Arabian Travel Market 2025 will focus on the theme “Worldwide Travel: Shaping Tomorrow’s”
Tourism
By shifting the spotlight onto “Enhanced Connectivity,” where seamless travel experiences take precedence, the Arabian Travel Week (from April 28 to May 1) aims to bring together key figures from the tourism industry, travel experts, and international corporations to explore the future of tourism. At ATM 2025, India will showcase its dynamic role and initiatives in the global travel market.

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As India boosts its profile at ATM Dubai, the collaboration between the two countries in the tourism sector is expected to intensify.
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ANI will not bear any responsibility for the content thereof).

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Nigerian and Chinese Firms Team Up to Mass Produce Affordable Tricycles Internationally

Easytech Integrated Services Limited, a company from Nigeria, has joined forces with Guangzhou Dayun Motorcycle Company Limited, a prominent producer of motorcycles and tricycles based in China, to manufacture affordable yet superior quality tricycles designed specifically for improving the transport of farm products in countryside regions.

A press release provided to reporters in Lokoja by Oyigu Elijah outlined that the collaboration intends to manufacture tricycles tailored for effective cargo and baggage transport.

During a joint meeting with its partners, the Managing Director and CEO of Easytech Integrated Services Limited, Alhaji Abdulsalam Iyaji—a retired Assistant Inspector General of Police from Kogi State—highlighted the significant impact that transportation has on Nigeria’s socioeconomic growth.

“Our mission is to tackle issues, and our objective here is to resolve the transportation difficulties affecting the everyday routines and economic endeavors of our community members, with special emphasis on those residing in rural regions,” Iyaji noted.

“We decided to collaborate with Dayun due to their established success and stellar standing in the market for crafting robust and effective items,” he noted.

Edo government collaborates with LAPO to address issues affecting women and girls; Okun Development Association organizes security conference; Abia government plans to work with NASS on renewable energy projects

Alhaji Iyaji emphasized the advantages of the newly introduced pickup tricycles. These vehicles are well-suited for carrying merchandise and farm products. He pointed out their efficient fuel usage, robust construction, and ability to handle demanding tasks effectively.

“These tricycles are specifically designed for transporting goods and baggage. They are robust, dependable, and boast great fuel efficiency, which makes them an ideal choice for small enterprises and personal use,” he clarified.

The partnership is set to launch cutting-edge tricycle designs powered by alternative energy sources. Iyaji shared intentions to produce electric and compressed natural gas (CNG) tricycles aimed at decreasing dependence on fuel-driven versions and adhering to international environmental objectives.

“We are currently investigating methods to manufacture electric tricycles and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) compliant versions. Our objective is to reduce the difficulties related to transport, thereby simplifying and lowering costs for people in Nigeria,” he stated additionally.

Ms. Heidi, the Sales Manager at Guangzhou Dayun Motorcycle Co. Ltd., conveyed her company’s excitement about the collaboration during the event.

“We are delighted to join forces with Easytech Integrated Services Limited, a reliable and forward-thinking firm. This partnership represents a crucial move toward enhancing our reach and influence in Nigeria, which stands as the continent’s most populated nation,” she stated.

The event saw the presence of important delegates from both organizations, featuring Mr. Niu, who holds the position of Technical Officer at Dayun, alongside Mr. Suleiman Iyaji, serving as the Sales Director for Easytech Integrated Services Limited.

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