Beirut, Lebanon, 4th July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, As Lebanon advances toward energy independence and clean-tech leadership, Trescon’s newly launched Climate Action & Renewable Energy Expo (CARE) presents a timely platform for the country’s climate stakeholders to engage globally. With 10,000+ attendees, 950 investors, and 225 sponsors from 100+ countries expected across the series, CARE drives real partnerships and project delivery to address the region’s climate challenges. 

CARE kicks off in MENA on 26–27 November in Dubai, followed by KSA edition on 8-9 December in Riyadh and India edition on February.

The series opened with the CARE Dialogues on 24 June 2025 – an exclusive, invite-only session, held in Dubai under the theme “Green Finance and Beyond: Driving ESG Across Sectors.” Powered by Emtribe, the event convened senior leaders from finance, policy, and technology to explore practical strategies for embedding ESG into core business models.  

 “As a partner of CARE, we’re proud to back a platform that focuses on what really matters — getting the right people in the room and driving honest, outcome-focused conversations,” said Mohammed Saleem, Founder of Emtribe. He continued, “There’s a lot of talk in this space. CARE stands out by pushing for action that’s practical, collaborative, and needed.” 

As the first official prelude to CARE, the session set the tone for cross-sector collaboration and is helping shape a summit agenda grounded in real-world priorities and regional relevance. 

Lebanon has witnessed a substantial solar boom amid economic turbulence and unreliable grid power. Installed renewables capacity reached 1,297 MW by the end of 2024, growing from just 298 MW in 2015 — a compound annual growth rate of nearly 18% (International Renewable Energy Agency). Solar power now represents over 77% of the country’s total renewable capacity, with rooftop and offgrid systems driven by urgent local demand (Enerdata). A customs report confirmed that Lebanon imported 100,000 tons of solar panels in 2024, marking a four‑fold increase compared to the 25,000 tons imported in 2021. This grassroots adoption has also been supported by legislative reforms, including peertopeer energy trading and netmetering laws, expected to add 800–1,200 MW of smallscale renewables in the coming years (PV Magazine). 

CARE offers government figures, private developers, financiers, and climate-tech entrepreneurs from Lebanon a unique opportunity to connect with regional and global peers. Featuring insightful keynotes, panels, roundtables, and a dynamic exhibition, the summit will spotlight clean-tech solutions across sectors such as solar, wind, green hydrogen, water resiliency, and carbon markets.  

Naveen Bharadwaj, Group CEO of Trescon, said: 

“With reforms and investment frameworks enabling small-scale and gridtied renewables, Lebanon is at an inflection point. CARE MENA is built to connect local ambition with regional opportunity—helping Lebanese climate-tech leaders gain traction, funding, and collaboration in high-growth markets.”  

CARE is supported by the Global CARE Alliance, an advisory board of senior figures from climate-tech firms, international development agencies, and public policy including:    

• Dr. Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Former Minister of Climate Change & Environment, UAE  

• Dr. Waleed Alkalash, Former Deputy Minister for Labor Policies / CEO Ministry of Labour / Business Consulting & Services, KSA    

• Dr. Ioannis Spanos, Vice President – Sustainability, Expo City Dubai, UAE    

• Alice Spencer, Executive Director, University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, UK    

• Maher Al Kaabi, Executive Committee Member, UAEIIC & Council Member, UAE Circular Economy Council    

• Julie Newman, Director of Sustainability, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA   

• Erik Solheim, Former Minister of Environment, & Former Under Secretary General, UNEP, Norway, and others    

Their combined expertise anchors CARE in real-world climate leadership, helping transform high-level dialogue into concrete action, investment, and global impact.    

The summit also includes the ClimateTech World Cup, a global pitch competition inviting Lebanese start-ups and SMEs to present innovative energy, water, and circular economy solutions to international investors, development institutions, and corporate leaders.  

As MENA nations mobilise around net-zero strategies and climate financing, CARE offers Lebanon a powerful channel to spotlight its clean-tech potential, engage regionally, and scale resilient, clean energy solutions. 

For more information, visit www.careforsustainability.com. 

For further enquiries, contact:   

Shadi Dawi  

Global Director  

PR, Corporate Comms. & Media Relations  

M: +971 55 498 4989 | E: shadi@tresconglobal.com  

About CARE  

CARE (Climate Action & Renewable Energy Expo) is a global initiative by Trescon focused on delivering tangible outcomes in climate and clean energy. It is a high-impact marketplace for ideas, capital, and partnerships, bringing together key stakeholders to accelerate sustainable infrastructure, scale climate technologies, and mobilise climate finance. By aligning public and private sector agendas, CARE drives the projects, policies, and investments that power real progress on global climate goals.  

About Trescon  

Trescon is a global business events and consulting firm that builds influential forums connecting governments, business leaders, investors, and innovators across FinTech, AI, sustainability, and emerging technologies. With a portfolio of flagship summits including the Dubai FinTech Summit, Dubai AI Festival, DATEwithTech, HODL, and the World FinTech Show, Trescon is known for catalysing bold ideas, strategic alliances, and real-world outcomes in high-growth markets.  

Key themes at CARE 

• Climate action & decarbonisation 

• Renewable energy & CleanTech 

• Sustainable finance & ESG 

• Cities & infrastructure 

• Water & oceans 

• Circular economy 

• Mobility & transport 

• Food security & agriculture 

Media partners include: Khaleej Times | Entrepreneur ME | FinTech Times | Finance World Magazine | Daily Hunt | American Bazaar | Arabian World Magazine | One Arabia | Bayt Magazine | DSRPTD | One-FS.com | The Blockopedia | H2 News | Green Review | Sustainable Finance Daily | Climate Tech Review | Sustainable Packaging News | Sustainable Times | Breaking AI News | ACN Newswire | ZEX PR Wire | Tech Revolt

Michigan, US, 4th July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Cuculia Ristorante, an exceptional dining destination in the heart of Florence, continues to raise the bar for fine dining with its groundbreaking approach to Italian cuisine. With accolades from prestigious organizations—including the Michelin Guide and the Forchettiere Awards—Cuculia has firmly established itself as one of the city’s most sought-after restaurants, attracting both local connoisseurs and international food lovers alike.

Led by Chef Oliver Betancourt and his wife Roberta Del Prete, who serves as manager, maître d’, and sommelier, Cuculia delivers an extraordinary dining experience that celebrates creativity, quality, and sustainability. While the restaurant offers a wide range of expertly crafted dishes rooted in Italian tradition, it has also earned international recognition for its exceptional vegetarian and vegan offerings.

Global Recognition in the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE

Cuculia is proud to be ranked 10th in Italy and 94th worldwide for its vegetarian and vegan cuisine by the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE, the leading international guide for sustainable, plant-forward gastronomy. This recognition places Cuculia among the top restaurants globally for its excellence in plant-based cuisine—an especially notable achievement in a region known for its meat-centric culinary traditions.

It’s important to note that while Cuculia’s vegetarian and vegan menus have garnered critical acclaim, they are just one facet of a broader offering. The restaurant’s menu encompasses a full spectrum of refined dishes, marrying the richness of traditional Italian flavors with contemporary techniques and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

A Prestigious Michelin Recognition

Since 2023, Cuculia Ristorante has been recognized by the Michelin Guide—a globally respected symbol of culinary excellence. The Michelin recognition affirms the restaurant’s exceptional standards across all aspects of the dining experience, from food quality and creativity to authenticity and service.

At Cuculia, each dish is a testament to Chef Betancourt’s craftsmanship. The menu evolves with the seasons, offering guests an opportunity to explore both plant-based and traditional dishes made from the finest Tuscan ingredients.

The Forchettiere Award: Best Fine Dining in Florence/Tuscany

Cuculia was also recently honored with the Forchettiere Award for Best Fine Dining in Florence/Tuscany. Voted by the public, this prestigious accolade further cements Cuculia’s role as a leader in the region’s culinary landscape. The award is a testament not only to the restaurant’s refined plant-forward offerings but also to its broader commitment to culinary excellence.

A Bold and Balanced Culinary Vision

In a city steeped in culinary tradition, Cuculia stands out for its bold, plant-forward menus that coexist seamlessly with more traditional Italian offerings. While its vegetarian and vegan tasting menus showcase the artistry and innovation of Chef Betancourt, diners can also enjoy a variety of other dishes that reflect the richness and diversity of Italian cuisine.

Cuculia’s success lies in its ability to reimagine Tuscan ingredients—wild herbs, seasonal vegetables, artisanal cheeses—in new and inspiring ways, without ever straying too far from the roots of Italian gastronomy.

Chef Oliver Betancourt: A Visionary Leader

With over three decades of international experience, Chef Oliver Betancourt brings a global sensibility to Cuculia’s kitchen. Originally from Venezuela, his culinary journey has taken him through renowned kitchens in France, Spain, and Italy. This eclectic background informs his innovative yet grounded approach to Cuculia’s menus, blending elegance with accessibility.

Sustainability at the Core

Sustainability is central to Cuculia’s philosophy. The restaurant partners with local farmers and producers to ensure every dish is crafted with the freshest, most responsibly sourced ingredients. From minimizing food waste to adopting energy-efficient practices, Cuculia is dedicated to reducing its environmental impact while maintaining the highest culinary standards.

Redefining Florence’s Dining Scene

As Florence continues to evolve as a gastronomic destination, Cuculia plays a pivotal role in shaping the city’s modern culinary identity. Its innovative blend of traditional Italian cuisine and celebrated plant-based offerings challenges conventional expectations and opens up exciting new possibilities for food lovers.

Looking Ahead

Chef Betancourt and Roberta Del Prete remain committed to pushing boundaries—whether through evolving seasonal menus, expanding global culinary influences, or deepening sustainable practices. As Cuculia moves forward, its mission remains clear: to deliver an immersive, refined, and unforgettable dining experience for every guest.

Conclusion: A Gem in Florence’s Culinary Landscape

Cuculia Ristorante has firmly established itself as one of Florence’s premier dining destinations. With Michelin recognition, a Forchettiere Award, and global acclaim from the WE’RE SMART® GREEN GUIDE for its outstanding vegetarian cuisine, Cuculia is a beacon of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in Italian fine dining.

For more information or to make a reservation, please visit www.cuculia.it.

Contact:

Cuculia Ristorante
Phone: +39 349 434 4518 (Mobile)
Phone: +39 055 277 6205 (Landline, available after 5:00 PM)
Website: www.cuculia.it

Nakuja Expeditions offers new custom safari packages that reaffirm the company’s role as a leader in the luxury safari space.

Morogoro, TZ, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Nakuja Expeditions, a premier travel and tourism company specializing in tailor-made African adventures, has unveiled an exciting new lineup of custom safari packages designed for modern travelers who crave authentic wildlife experiences and meaningful cultural encounters. These new offerings reflect the company’s dedication to providing unforgettable journeys across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and South Africa, with flexible itineraries catering to couples, families, solo travelers, student groups, and colleagues.

From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to witnessing the iconic Great Migration in the Serengeti, Nakuja Expeditions’ updated collection of safaris is curated to immerse travelers in Africa’s breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity. Each itinerary is carefully designed by experienced local tour operators who bring deep regional knowledge and cultural insight to every journey.

Among the newly announced safaris are the popular 10-Day and 6-Day Tanzania Safaris, offering wildlife lovers a chance to explore Tarangire National Park, Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar. These tours blend classic big game viewing with relaxing downtime on the coast, perfect for both thrill-seekers and those seeking tranquility. Adventurers can also opt for the 9 Days Luxury Cape Town and Kruger Safari for South Africa’s luxury city experiences and world-class wildlife encounters.

Another standout is the 11-Day Private Safari in Tanzania and Kenya, taking guests from Hell’s Gate and Lake Nakuru to the legendary Maasai Mara and on to the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The itinerary offers a seamless transition between countries and ecosystems, giving travelers a front-row seat to the best of East Africa’s wildlife corridors.

For those drawn to Uganda’s lush terrain, the 6-Day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari delivers encounters with mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other species in Bwindi, Kibale, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. Similarly, the 6-Day Rwanda Adventure Safari explores the volcanoes and savannahs of Rwanda with visits to Volcanoes and Akagera National Parks as well as Kigali, the country’s dynamic capital.

Adventurers can indulge in a luxurious 11-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari Adventure, combining the serenity of Volcanoes National Park with top-tier game drives in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. For wildlife migration enthusiasts, the company also features an 8-Day Wildebeest Crossing Safari, offering a dramatic view of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacle.

“We believe that every traveler deserves an experience that speaks to their spirit of adventure,” said a spokesperson for Nakuja Expeditions. “Our new safari packages are more than just vacations, they are immersive, life-changing journeys crafted by locals who know Africa’s lands, wildlife, and cultures inside and out. Whether you’re watching a lion stalk its prey in the Serengeti, standing face-to-face with a gorilla in Rwanda, or watching the sun set over Ngorongoro, these are moments that stay with you forever.”

Beyond preset packages, Nakuja Expeditions prides itself on creating fully custom travel itineraries. Each journey can be adapted to individual travel styles, seasonal preferences, and special requests, allowing for a truly personalized African adventure. Whether it’s a luxury family safari or a romantic honeymoon, the team ensures each trip is as unique as the traveler embarking on it.

About Nakuja Expeditions

Nakuja Expeditions is a boutique travel and tourism company offering expertly crafted safari adventures across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and South Africa. Known for their local expertise and commitment to personalized service, Nakuja Expeditions provides a diverse range of custom itineraries, including family safaris, romantic honeymoons, student expeditions, and wildlife migration tours. With a passion for connecting travelers to Africa’s natural and cultural heritage, Nakuja Expeditions turns ordinary trips into unforgettable journeys.

A self-directed summer theater experience with expert guidance, immersive rehearsals, and unforgettable performances in the heart of the Adirondacks.

Dobbs Ferry, NY, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, Long Lake Camp for the Arts is proud to announce its much-anticipated 2025 Musical Theater Summer Program, offering teens ages 8 to 16 a unique and empowering experience rooted in full creative freedom and professional-level support. With enrollment now open and spots filling fast, families are encouraged to secure their teen’s place in one of the most dynamic performing arts programs available.

Set on a stunning 200-acre lakefront campus in New York’s Adirondack Mountains, Long Lake Camp has cultivated a warm and nurturing artistic community for over 55 years. The camp’s musical theater program remains a standout opportunity for young artists to grow in confidence, skill, and self-expression—all while crafting unforgettable memories through performance.

“Giving our campers full control over their program, with seasoned guidance alongside—not in front of—them, makes all the difference. They leave not only with polished scenes and songs, but with a profound sense of ownership over their artistic growth.”

In 2025, Long Lake is offering two immersive six-week sessions and three intensive three-week sessions. The six-week sessions begin on June 22 and July 14. The three-week sessions start on June 22, July 14, and August 4. Pricing and additional information are available on the camp’s official website.

What sets Long Lake’s musical theater program apart is its approach to growth and creativity. Campers are granted 100% choice in their training experience. Each performer decides which roles to pursue, what styles to rehearse, and how deeply to engage with specific skills, all while working under the guidance of experienced directors, choreographers, and instructors. This structure helps young artists develop their voice, presence, and style in ways that feel natural and personal.

Rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all curriculum, Long Lake empowers every camper to take ownership of their artistic journey. Whether they arrive confident and experienced or nervous and new to the stage, each camper is met with genuine care and mentorship that helps them thrive on their terms.

Through rehearsals, stage time, and structured lessons offered daily, teens are supported in strengthening their vocal abilities, sharpening their acting technique, and expanding their physical presence through movement and choreography. As they grow throughout the summer, campers become more comfortable not just in performance, but in themselves.

One parent shared that their child, once shy and hesitant, returned home from Long Lake transformed. “He stepped off the bus, standing taller and more confident than I’ve ever seen him. He told me, ‘I found myself on stage.’ That’s the power of Long Lake.”

The camp’s facilities include full performance theaters, rehearsal studios, and costume and set shops, providing teens with the experience of real production work while also maintaining a supportive and inclusive environment. Campers enjoy traditional outdoor activities in addition to rehearsals, from watersports, campfires, and talent nights.

Long Lake’s commitment to fostering independence and artistic discovery makes its programs not only impactful in the short term but lasting in the lives of its alumni. Many go on to continue their arts education or remain involved in theater throughout high school and beyond. What they take from camp is more than technical training—it’s self-assurance, lasting friendships, and the pride of creative accomplishment.

As spaces fill quickly for both session types, families are encouraged to register now to secure their preferred dates. With experience and a reputation built on trust, growth, and exceptional care, Long Lake Camp remains one of the country’s most respected summer programs for young artists.

About Long Lake Camp for the Arts

Founded in 1969, Long Lake Camp for the Arts offers immersive performing and fine arts experiences for teens in the Adirondack Mountains of New York. With a focus on camper-led training, supportive instruction, and a vibrant, creative community, Long Lake fosters personal growth, confidence, and a lifelong connection to the arts.

Contact Information

Address: 199 Washington Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522
Website: www.longlakecamp.com
Phone: 914-693-7111 (no texts)
Text:  914-430-7535 (texts only)

Baku, Azerbaijan, 3rd July 2025, ZEX PR WIRE, For over two decades Azerbaijan has consistently worked to modernize and expand its transport sector, achieving significant results and elevating it to a new level. In recent years, the development of international transport routes has become especially important, leading to notable successes. The country’s long-term efforts to strengthen its transit potential are now having a major impact on the rapidly growing road freight sector.

A forward-thinking strategy and large-scale infrastructure projects have modernized the national road network and positioned Azerbaijan as a key international hub. The country now serves as a crossroads for important regional and transcontinental transport routes, including the increasingly significant Middle Corridor. This route holds great promise for Azerbaijan, which has seen remarkable growth in international road transit freight over the past two years.

Azerbaijan’s reputation as a reliable partner has grown thanks to its adherence to international agreements, improved driver training and enhanced service quality. These factors have increased trust among cargo senders and recipients enabling Azerbaijani carriers to gain a stronger position in international freight markets. Today, they not only dominate bilateral transport but also operate successfully between third countries, including those in Europe.

A key achievement has been Azerbaijan’s strengthened cooperation with the International Transport Forum (ITF). Due to its high performance and reliability Azerbaijan was elected President of the ITF for 2025–2026 and currently serves as First Vice President for 2024–2025. This reflects the international community’s trust and recognition of Azerbaijan’s leadership in transport.

In 2023, the ITF confirmed Azerbaijan’s full compliance with the Charter on Quality for International Road Transport, adopted in 2015. The Charter outlines requirements in business reputation, financial stability and professional competence. Azerbaijan’s freight carriers operating in more than 40 countries under multilateral ITF permits fully meet these high international standards.

Statistical data highlight the sector’s rapid growth. According to the Azerbaijan Land Transport Agency (AYNA), the market share of national carriers in bilateral international freight transport rose from 39% in 2021 to 49% in 2024 with 74,283 more trips completed. The number of freight shipments carried out by Azerbaijani transport operators to and from third countries increased from 13,979 in 2021 to 45,902 in 2024.  

This growth translates into higher profits for local carriers and increased foreign currency inflow from service exports, contributing to the expansion of the non-oil economy. For example, while total road transit freight was 1.5 million tons in 2020, it reached 7.2 million tons by 2024. The largest annual increase occurred in 2022, with a 95% jump compared to 2021. In 2023, this figure reached 6.3 million tons.

The geographic scope of Azerbaijani carriers now stretches from the UK to Southeast Asia. Naturally, this growth has led to an increase in the number of freight trucks, drivers, support staff and mechanics. From 2021 to 2024, around 12,000 new jobs were created in Azerbaijan’s international road freight sector.

Digital technology has also played a key role, streamlining documentation, saving time, reducing paper use and ensuring transparency. A recent example is the use of electronic permits in freight transport between Azerbaijan and Turkey. Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan have also agreed to fully implement e-permits by September 1, 2025, and pilot shipments using the system have already begun.

In short, digitalization, infrastructure development and international cooperation have positioned road freight as a vital engine of Azerbaijan’s transport development and non-oil export growth.