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The World’s Cultural Leaders Meet in Seoul: ARKO and IFACCA Co-Hosts the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture, May 27–30

Arts Council Korea (ARKO, Byoung Gug Choung, Chair) will co-host the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture from Tuesday, 27 May to Friday, 30 May in the Daehakro area of Seoul. The World Summit on Arts and Culture is the flagship event of International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA) delivered in partnership with one of its National Members. The 10th edition is co-hosted with Arts Council Korea. Since its inaugural meeting in Ottawa, Canada, in 2000, the Summit has been held by a National Member countries in rotation. In 2023, after presenting Korea’s vision for arts and culture that spurred the rise of K-Culture, Seoul was unanimously selected as the host city of the 2025 Summit. ARKO and the International Federation of Arts Councils and Culture Agencies (IFACCA, Kristin Danielsen, Chair) will co-host. The Summit will bring together 400 cultural leaders including government officials, representatives of arts councils and cultural institutions, policy experts, artists, and researchers from over 80 countries. □ ‘Charting the future of arts and culture’ facing the reality of a polycrisis In a year marked by a polycrisis, the Summit takes the theme of ‘Charting the future of arts and culture’ and sheds light, from various perspectives, on the roles that arts and culture play regarding the global issues of artificial intelligence, digital technologies, the climate crisis, and the resilience of local communities. The Summit programme is comprised of 36 sessions with 106 speakers from 65 countries based on three transversal clusters: Knowledge Systems and Agency, Participatory Systems and Connectedness, and Digital Systems and Technology. Throughout the dialogues, participants will explore tools for futureproofing the cultural and creative sectors. The co-hosts, ARKO and IFACCA, developed the Summit programme in partnership with the International Programme Advisory Committee (IPAC), composed of global leaders in CCS, to ensure greater international expertise and diversity of lived experience. □ With the participation of about a hundred global dignitaries such as the Minister of Culture of Spain, executive leaders of arts councils, artists, and distinguished scholars, the Summit has a participatory structure that reflects the voices of diverse stakeholders from around the world The Summit will feature a variety of programmes emphasizing participant-centered communication, starting with the Opening Gala on May 27 at DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza) and continuing with various programs at the ARKO Arts Theater and other venues in Daehakro area. This Summit, by engaging different stakeholders, not only cultural policy officials but also artists, civic organizations, researchers, has endeavored to gather as many different voices as possible from across the world, including India, South Africa, and Ukraine. To this end, key speakers include, Michael Running Wolf (Lead Architect, Mila Quebec Artificial Intelligence Institute), Gerfried Stocker (Artistic and Managing Director, Ars Electronica), Avril Joffe (UNESCO Chair in Cultural Entrepreneurship and Policy), His Excellency Ernest Urtasun Domènech (Minister of Culture of Spain), Dr Alexandra Xanthaki (UN Special Rapporteur in the field of cultural rights). On May 28, a panel session titled ‘Elastic futurity in Korean arts and culture: a critical examination,’ featuring Serang Chung (writer), Sang-Keun Yoo (Assistant Professor, Marist University), Andrés Felipe Solano (writer), will extensively discuss the future of Korean arts and culture. Additionally, the World Summit Discussion Paper with contributions from ten global experts, published in April ahead of the Summit, will provide insights into shared interests across regions and the world, and will form a preliminary discourse for facilitating deeper discussions. □ Playing a Bridging Role for Post-2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Summit will play a practical role in establishing culture in the future of global sustainable agenda, ahead of Mondiacult 2025, the UNESCO-hosted ministerial-level World Conference on Cultural Policies and Sustainable Development, which will take place in Barcelona at the end of September. On May 28, a panel session will discuss the topic, ‘A standalone goal for culture in the post-2030 UN agenda: pathways and prospects.’ The discourse generated by this Summit will serve as a bridge to future international agendas on the role of culture in broader government priorities. □ A Cultural celebration with assorted K-Culture highlights With global interest in K-Culture at a peak, expectations are high among participants visiting Korea for this Summit. In response, ARKO has curated a varied cultural programme for participants to experience both the elegance of tradition and modern culture. The programmes will include the opening performance by HAEPAARY, an alt-electronic duo showcasing their unique musical world that blends tradition and modernity; an exhibition at the Leeum Museum of Art, where participants can explore the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures and view artworks ranging from ancient to contemporary times; and the closing performance by Ambiguous Dance Company, which will reinterpret traditional Korean cultural celebrations, like the Dano festival, through an interactive performance. These exceptional Korean cultural events will offer a warm welcome to guests from across the world. □ Gratitude for global support and solidarity and a commitment to Giving Back as a platform for international cultural and artistic exchange As Executive Director of IFACCA, Magdalena Moreno Mujica stated that this Summit aims “to build collective knowledge and capabilities to lead to collective action. We trust it will provide a range of tools and connections we need to help chart the future of arts and culture. Seoul is the ideal context to have these very important conversations and exchanges at this given time” In response, ARKO Chair, Byoung Gug Choung said, "To pay back the solidarity and support of the international community that spurred Korea's growth as a global leader in arts and culture, we wanted to create a meaningful space where, based on Korea's cultural foundation, practitioners from various countries can explore the future of culture and the arts together, with results that are practically and meaningfully applied in the cultural and artistic fields." □ Online registration for participation is available until May 18. Plenary sessions will be broadcast live for all to join Registration for the 10th World Summit on Arts and Culture will be available until May 18 through the official website (www.artsummit.org), where detailed schedules, programmes, and discussion papers will also be provided. The morning sessions over the three days of the Summit will be broadcast live, allowing everyone to participate. The sessions will be available for viewing on ARKO and IFACCA's official YouTube channels.

Azorra Delivers Mongolia’s First Embraer E195-E2 to Hunnu Air

Azorra has delivered the first of two new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft to Hunnu Air, marking a new partnership for the lessor and the first E2 to operate in Mongolia. The E195-E2 delivered from Azorra’s firm orderbook with Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3) will support Hunnu Air as it grows its fleet and expands its route network to key destinations across Asia-Pacific, offering greater capacity and longer-range capability. John Evans, CEO and Founder, Azorra, says: "We are thrilled to deliver Mongolia's first new Embraer E195-E2 aircraft to our valued partners at Hunnu Air. This is a significant step in the growth of Hunnu Air and a major milestone for the future of aviation in Mongolia. This delivery also reinforces our strong partnership with Embraer. The E195-E2 is a modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that is optimally designed to reduce operating costs and improve efficiencies in existing markets, while facilitating the exploration and development of new markets. As demand for these jets surges across the Asia-Pacific region, we are excited to continue providing our airline partners with innovative fleet solutions.” Munkhjargal Purevjal, CEO, Hunnu Air, says: “We’ve been an E190 operator since 2019 and the E195-E2 is the perfect extension as we meet growing demand for air travel across Mongolia and beyond. These new generation aircraft will allow us to increase capacity to Haikou, Sanya, and Phu Quoc, expand services to Japan, China, Vietnam, India and South Korea, and introduce scheduled flights to Tashkent. We’re thankful for the support of Azorra and Embraer as the E2 will be integral to our long-term growth.” Martyn Holmes, Chief Commercial Officer, Embraer Commercial Aviation, says: “The entry of the E195-E2 into Mongolia is a key development for the region’s aviation landscape. The aircraft’s advanced technology, low noise levels, unbeatable efficiency, and unparalleled passenger comfort make it the ideal choice for airlines looking to grow strategically while optimizing operational costs. We look forward to supporting Hunnu Air’s strategic growth and thank Hunnu Air for their continued partnership and our leasing partner Azorra for their continued collaboration, combining again with Embraer.” Azorra continues to work with Embraer to strengthen the E2’s presence in Asia, having previously delivered the region’s first E2 aircraft to Scoot in April 2024. The addition of Hunnu Air to Azorra’s expanding network of airline customers highlights the increasing demand for fuel-efficient, comfortable, new generation aircraft in the region.

LOT Polish Airlines launched direct flights between Warsaw and Malta on 16 April 2025

Despite its small size, Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean Sea, captivates all who visit with its unique charm. This is why LOT Polish Airlines welcomed passengers aboard on 16 April, at 8:05 AM, for the inaugural flight, LO671, from Warsaw Chopin Airport to Malta International Airport, located near the capital, Valletta. The national carrier offers four weekly flights to Malta – on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Passengers bound for Warsaw will also be able to travel on the same days. "With its rich history, crystal-clear seas, and mild climate, Malta is well worth visiting year-round. The new LOT Polish Airlines connection allows travellers from Poland to discover this extraordinary island’s charms, with four convenient flights operating each week. I believe this route will benefit tourism and economic development in both countries. We invite you to join us on board." - Michał Fijoł, CEO of LOT Polish Airlines Valletta: A City Where Every Corner Tells a Story Valletta, the island’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see on any visitor’s itinerary. Despite its compact size, it features an extraordinary array of monuments and attractions that delight visitors at every turn. Valletta is a city brimming with historical treasures and spectacular views. Key sights include the baroque St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio; the impressive Grand Master’s Palace, with its richly decorated interiors and armour collection; and the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering panoramic views of the Grand Harbour. Fort St. Elmo and the National War Museum highlight the island’s strategic importance throughout history. Don’t miss the Manoel Theatre – one of Europe’s oldest working theatres – or the lively Strait Street, with its many restaurants and live music venues. Valletta captivates at every turn with its history and Mediterranean charm. Gozo – A Coastal Slice of Paradise While in Malta, don’t miss the chance to explore Gozo. This charming islet is just a 25-minute ferry ride from one of Malta’s ports. At Dwejra Bay, you can see where scenes from the global TV hit ‘Game of Thrones’ were filmed – unsurprisingly, given the breathtaking rock formations and incredible landscapes. Local legends say that mermaids once inhabited these waters. Today, Dwejra and its surroundings form a nature reserve, making it an ideal spot for diving and admiring the local flora and fauna. Ramla Bay, Gozo’s most beautiful beach, is famed for its unique, red sand, and a truly special holiday atmosphere. It’s said that Caligula had his summer residence here, and the mythological goddess Calypso held Odysseus captive in a nearby cave. During the season, Ramla Bay buzzes with cultural life, as many festivals take place there. Marsaxlokk – Where Time Seems to Stand Still For those who enjoy relaxed mornings, leisurely strolls, and moments of peace, Marsaxlokk, Malta’s oldest fishing village, is truly enchanting – a perfect place to unwind. The colorful ‘luzzu’ boats are captivating, inviting a moment of contemplation. The local market is equally vibrant, offering a dazzling array of fresh fish, fragrant cheeses, delicious sweets, and soft bread. A little off the beaten track lies Anchor Bay, another charming spot, with its beautiful turquoise waters and the film set of Popeye Village. Fans of the film can step into the scenes featuring the golden-hearted, eccentric sailor. While it’s not a typical theme park with rollercoasters, there’s plenty of fun, sunshine, and water-based adventure to be had. This unique setting, now one of Malta’s most unexpected attractions, is worth a visit – whether you’re with children, friends, or exploring on your own. "We are delighted that LOT Polish Airlines will further strengthen Malta’s connectivity with Poland through year-round flights to Warsaw, particularly given the recent rise in popularity of this market locally. Besides serving as a point-to-point link, the newly launched flight can be used as a connection, putting Malta on the map for potential visitors from places that are not directly connected to our islands." - Alan Borg, Malta International Airport CEO Year after year, the popularity of this Mediterranean country is rapidly growing among Polish buyers. In January this year, tourists from Poland made up the largest group of European visitors to Malta – nearly 31,000. According to the latest data, in February, the island was visited by even more Poles – 31,500, ranking second among European nations, second only to visitors from the UK. "LOT adds an additional dimension to Malta’s connectivity from Poland opening the door for segments such as business travel. Furthermore, LOT’s North American and Asian networks provide an additional seamless service for visitors from these long-haul markets wanting to visit Malta." - Carlo Micallef, Malta Tourism Authority CEO A Window to the World The new LOT Polish Airlines connection doesn’t just benefit travellers to Malta; it also offers numerous opportunities, both for leisure and business, to those flying from Malta to Poland. Poland features diverse landscapes, from the coast, through the Masurian Lake District and the forests of Podlasie, to its mountain regions – offering something for every holidaymaker. Warsaw Chopin Airport serves as an excellent hub for onward travel. The national carrier’s extensive network allows passengers to easily connect to flights across Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Major cities like New York, Chicago, Seoul, and Dubai are all within easy reach. Chopin Airport’s high-quality service, seamless transfers, and central European location make it a key transit point, connecting passengers to LOT Polish Airlines’ global network. Tickets for flights from Warsaw to Malta are available through all sales channels, including lot.com, the LOT Contact Centre, and LOT Travel offices.