Dear colleagues, We are pleased to announce RIPE Database release 1.71. You can find details about the new features, changes and how you might be affected, and important dates in the release notes: https://www.ripe.net/data-tools/db/release-notes/ripe-database-release-1.71 The new release contains the "import-via" and "export-via" attributes that were discussed in the Database and Routing Working Groups at RIPE 67, the initial implementation of which was made by Job Snijders. After further discussions on the mailing lists, the working group chairs decided that this feature should be incorporated in the RIPE Database. You can find out more about these attributes here: http://www.ietf.org/id/draft-snijders-rpsl-via-02.txt With this release we would also like to introduce our new Release Candidate environment. The Release Candidate environment is distinct from the TEST Database, and aims to provide an environment as close as possible to "production" where you can test that your software will work with upcoming RIPE Database releases. You can find out more about the Release Candidate environment in the release notes linked above. We look forward to hearing any questions or comments you might have! Kind regards, Johan Åhlén Assistant Manager Database RIPE NCC