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The COP26 conference in Glasgow opened after the G20 economies did not commit to a 2050 target to stop net carbon emissions, a deadline seen as crucial to prevent severe global warming. The talks in Rome only acknowledged the importance of halting net emissions by mid-century, without setting a specific timeline for phasing out coal or making strong promises to reduce methane emissions. Greta Thunberg urged her supporters to sign an open letter accusing leaders of betrayal and called on them to address the climate emergency immediately. Many leaders will be speaking at the conference in Glasgow on Monday to discuss their climate change records and potentially make new pledges. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will emphasize the urgency of the situation, stating that humanity must act now as time is running out on climate change. If we do not take action on climate change now, it will be too late for future generations to address the issue. Disagreement among major emitters on how to reduce coal, oil, and gas emissions and support developing countries in adapting to global warming will complicate the task. President Joe Biden criticized China and Russia for not presenting proposals at the G20 summit, where he is also facing opposition to his climate goals. Chinese President Xi Jinping, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, will deliver a written statement at the conference on Monday. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will not be attending the COP26 conference in Glasgow due to Britain's failure to meet Ankara's security and protocol demands. The conference, delayed by a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to maintain the target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. To achieve this goal, more ambitious pledges to reduce emissions, climate-related financing for developing countries, and finalizing rules for the 2015 Paris Agreement are needed. Current emission reduction pledges would result in a 2.7 degree Celsius rise in temperature this century, leading to intensified storms, deadly heatwaves, floods, rising sea levels, and habitat destruction caused by climate change. Ugandan activist Evelyn Acham stated to the Italian newspaper La Stampa that Africa, despite being responsible for only 3 percent of global emissions, is facing the most severe consequences of the climate crisis. She emphasized that Africans are not to blame for the crisis, but are suffering due to the historical exploitation of Africa's resources during colonialism. Acham called for fair sharing of responsibilities in addressing the climate crisis. The two days of speeches by world leaders, beginning on Monday, will be followed by technical negotiations, with a deal possibly being reached close to or even after the event's November 12 conclusion. | 1 |
Xu, who is the assistant administrator of the region and the UN Assistant Secretary-General, will be staying in Bangladesh until May 21, as confirmed by UNDP in Dhaka. In Bangladesh, he will have meetings with senior ministers and key officials to discuss various topics such as economic growth, innovation, and the country's resilience. UNDP stated that Xu's visit will provide the international community and global development partners with a better understanding of Bangladesh and its future goals. The visit is considered significant for Bangladesh as Xu will evaluate the success of UNDP initiatives in reducing urban poverty, disaster management, and climate change adaptation. He will visit Dakop and Hatia in the South West coastal district, as well as the Chittagong Hill Tracts to observe UNDP-led peace building initiatives. Xu has been with UNDP since 1995 and has worked in Asia, the Pacific, Eastern Europe, and former Soviet Union countries. Prior to his current role, he served as UNDP Resident Representative and UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, and as Deputy Regional Director for Europe and the CIS in New York. | 1 |
Chinese President Hu Jintao praised the increased collaboration between China and Japan during his state visit to Japan, offering a pair of pandas as a gesture of goodwill. This visit aims to strengthen trust between the two cautious Asian nations. Hu's arrival comes at a time when China is working to address global worries about unrest in Tibet, which could potentially impact the upcoming Olympic Games in Beijing. Hu was warmly welcomed by Japanese officials and well-wishers at the airport, although more than 1,000 peaceful protesters in Tokyo called for human rights in Tibet. Police presence was heightened to prevent any clashes with right-wing activists expressing anti-China sentiments, but no incidents were reported. China wants to improve its image as a friendly neighbor following years of disputes with Japan over its handling of wartime aggression. Hu, who has emphasized looking towards the future during his five days of meetings and ceremonies, stated that stable and friendly relations are beneficial for both countries, as their economies are becoming more interconnected. Upon arriving in Tokyo, he expressed that there are new opportunities for the two countries to further develop their relationship. Hu also expressed his hope to build mutual trust and strengthen friendship through his visit. As a gesture of goodwill towards Japan, Hu offered to provide two pandas for research purposes, which may help win over the Japanese public, especially after the recent death of the popular Ling Ling panda at a Tokyo zoo. During a casual dinner with Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda at a Tokyo restaurant with ties to Sun Yat-sen, the "father" of modern China, an offer was made. China has overtaken the United States as Japan's top trading partner, with trade totaling $236.6 billion in 2007, a 12 percent increase from the previous year. The Chinese ambassador to Japan, Cui Tiankai, emphasized the importance of coordination and cooperation between China and Japan to address various challenges. However, Japan is also concerned about China's growing diplomatic and military influence, particularly regarding disputed energy resources, military strength, and the safety of Chinese exports. While relations between the two countries have improved, further efforts are needed to fully strengthen their ties. The highlight of Hu's visit is expected to be a summit with Fukuda on Wednesday, during which they plan to reveal a plan for managing future relations. Beijing and Tokyo are eager to prevent a repeat of Jiang Zemin's visit to Japan ten years ago, which soured relations due to his criticism of Japan's past actions. Sino-Japanese relations became strained during Koizumi's time as prime minister from 2001 to 2006, but tensions have since eased. Negotiations are ongoing regarding touchy subjects in the joint document such as Taiwan, human rights, and Japan's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council. Disputes over gas reserves in the East China Sea and the issue of Chinese-made dumplings tainted with pesticide, which caused illness, have also contributed to tensions between the two countries. Japan is calling for more transparency regarding China's increasing defense spending, which reached 418 billion yuan ($60 billion) in 2008, a 17.6 percent increase from the previous year. Critics believe China's actual military budget is even higher. In return, Japan is seeking China's support for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a contentious issue that has caused tensions between the two countries in the past. Additionally, China is urging Japan to clarify its position on Taiwan, a topic that Beijing believes must be addressed for reunification to occur. Tokyo has expressed its backing for a "one China" policy that acknowledges Taiwan, a former Japanese colony until 1945 that still maintains strong connections with Japan. While major progress on specific disagreements is not anticipated, both parties are eager to emphasize a positive outlook and plan to release a joint statement on combating climate change, an important issue for Japan as the host of the upcoming July G8 summit. Hu is scheduled to address students at Waseda University in Tokyo and might relax by playing ping-pong with Fukuda. | 1 |
His message emphasizing the importance of strengthening alliances and reaffirming the commitment to defending Europe was well received during the Munich Security Conference where Biden spoke from the White House. However, there was opposition, particularly from French President Emmanuel Macron, who defended his idea of "strategic autonomy" from the US, arguing that Europe should not rely too heavily on the US as it shifts focus to Asia, particularly China. Even German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who is nearing the end of her term, tempered her praise for Biden's decision to halt the withdrawal of 12,000 US troops from the country, warning that their interests may not always align. This may refer to Germany's hesitation in confronting China, a key market for German goods, as well as the ongoing disagreement with the US over the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Russia. Despite these differences, all three leaders acknowledged that their first virtual meeting marked the end of the "America First" era, and gave Macron and Merkel the opportunity to welcome back Biden, whom they knew well from his time as a senator and vice president. Biden also used the meeting to emphasize the importance of a unified strategy in combatting the narrative pushed by Putin and Xi that the chaos surrounding the US election was a sign of democratic weakness and decline. Biden emphasized the importance of demonstrating that democracies can still effectively serve their citizens in today's world, stating that they must show their model is not outdated. The president, who has been a regular attendee of the Munich conference, delivered his address virtually due to the pandemic. He also participated in a video meeting with the Group of 7 allies, with an in-person summit planned for later in the year. Biden focused on moving away from Trumpism in the country's global strategy without directly mentioning his predecessor. He expressed his joy at the United States rejoining the Paris climate agreement and announced a new diplomatic initiative to engage with Iran alongside Britain, France, and Germany to revive the 2015 nuclear agreement. During an Online G7 meeting in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron participated on February 19, 2021. Instead of outlining a specific agenda, Biden focused on the fundamental principles that led to the creation of NATO and the Atlantic alliance in 1949 during the early Cold War era. The president emphasized that democracy is not something that occurs spontaneously. “We must protect it. Make it stronger. Revitalize it.” In a clear opposition to Trump, who discussed pulling out of NATO and famously refused to acknowledge the United States’ duties under Article V of the alliance’s charter to assist members under attack, Biden portrayed the United States as willing to fulfill its role as the key component of the alliance. “We will uphold” the commitment, he declared, emphasizing that “an assault on one is an assault on all.” However, he also urged Europe to approach challenges in a fresh manner — different from the Cold War era, despite the familiar presence of the two main geopolitical rivals. “We need to collectively prepare for prolonged strategic competition with China,” he stated, highlighting “cyberspace, artificial intelligence and biotechnology” as the new arenas for competition. He advocated for taking a strong stance against Russia, specifically in response to the SolarWinds attack on computer networks. Biden emphasized the importance of addressing Russian cyberattacks to protect collective security. The president did not discuss the challenge of punishing Russia without escalating tensions. White House officials are still assessing the extent of the Russian intrusion and struggling to develop options to hold Putin accountable. The interaction with Macron, who has criticized NATO, also drew interest. Macron is advocating for NATO to become more of a political entity where European members have equal status to the United States and are less dominated by American decision-making. He believes that a more autonomous Europe would strengthen NATO, with Europe taking more responsibility for its own security and increasing defense spending to rebalance the trans-Atlantic relationship. However, not all European states agree with this view, as some are unwilling to increase defense spending and Central and Eastern European nations prefer to rely on the United States for security. Macron also suggests that NATO should engage in dialogue with Russia, although Russia has shown little interest in improving relations while facing international sanctions for its actions in Crimea. Macron emphasized the need for Europe to take on more responsibility for its own protection, as he believes that the United States cannot be relied upon as much as before. He acknowledged that it will take a long time for Europe to develop its own defense capabilities, but he is committed to starting the process now. Additionally, Macron aims to enhance the EU's technological capabilities in order to reduce its dependence on American and Chinese supply chains. Biden aims to strengthen supply chains among Western allies to reduce Chinese influence, proposing a joint project for technology companies in semiconductors and software. German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the challenges of navigating China's dual role as a competitor and partner for the West during a virtual summit with G7 leaders. She stated that Russia consistently involves European Union members in hybrid conflicts. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a trans-Atlantic approach towards Russia that includes cooperative gestures while also clearly addressing differences. Biden confirmed the US's commitment to donating $4 billion towards accelerating the production and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines globally. However, there were notable differences in strategy discussed during the meeting. Macron emphasized the importance of providing 13 million vaccine doses to African nations promptly to safeguard healthcare workers. He cautioned that failure to do so could lead African countries to seek vaccines from other sources. Macron stressed that vaccine donations would demonstrate a shared commitment to advancing common values. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of the WHO also called for countries and drug manufacturers to expedite vaccine production and distribution globally to avoid leaving some countries behind. Tedros emphasized at the Munich conference that ensuring equal access to vaccines is not only a moral imperative but also the most strategic approach. He pointed out that delaying vaccination efforts in any country would prolong the pandemic's grip on global health. | 1 |
The traditional belief for many years was that Israel relied on the United States for its survival. However, experts now suggest that Israel has been able to establish a level of independence from the US, despite still benefiting from their assistance. This shift towards autonomy has been noted by security experts and political analysts, indicating a change in Israel's relationship with Washington. Israel no longer relies on US security guarantees for protection from neighboring states, as it has mostly made peace with them. It also does not see the need for American mediation in the Palestinian conflict, which Israelis generally support maintaining as it is. Previously dependent on US arms transfers, Israel now manufactures many of its essential weapons domestically. Diplomatically, Israel has become more self-sufficient by cultivating allies outside of Washington. Israelis are also less concerned with US approval culturally and exert less pressure on their leaders to maintain good relations with Washington. US aid to Israel has remained high, but Israel's strong economic growth over the years has made the country less dependent on it. In 1981, US aid made up almost 10% of Israel's economy, but in 2020, it was only about 1%. The US has also shown a decreasing role in the conflict, as seen in their call for a cease-fire only after an Egyptian-brokered agreement was almost finalized. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be visiting the region, but he has stated that he does not plan to restart formal Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. The shift comes at a time when some Democrats and liberal activists are questioning the traditional US support for Israel due to concerns about its treatment of Palestinians. Despite some American support for Israel, there is a growing backing for Palestinians among Democratic voters. The US still has influence over Israel through arms and diplomatic support, but this leverage may be diminishing as Israel continues to act independently, regardless of bipartisan agreements. Former President Trump's strong support for Israel showed that the relationship is still beneficial for Israel, but US influence may be waning. Steps towards achieving independence
When Americans reflect on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, they often think back to the Second Intifada, a period marked by Israeli tanks entering Palestinian towns and bombs exploding in Israeli cafes and buses. However, this was 15 years ago. Israel has since altered the dynamics of the conflict in ways that are generally acceptable to Israeli voters and leaders. Incidents of violence against Israelis in the West Bank are now less frequent and less severe, and even rarer within Israel itself. While there have been sporadic outbreaks of fighting between Israel and groups in Gaza, Israeli forces have managed to shift most of the burden onto Gazans. The number of deaths in the conflict used to be heavily skewed in favor of Palestinians, but now the ratio is closer to 20-to-1. Many Israelis have become disillusioned with the peace process and see periodic fighting as the best option. The occupation is a constant burden for Palestinians but is often ignored by Jewish Israelis. This approach has become more accepted by Israelis, who are willing to tolerate the cost. Israel is able to maintain this status quo without much assistance from outside sources. In previous years, Israel heavily relied on US-made military equipment, which needed approval from Congress and the White House. Now, they have shifted to using domestically-produced missile defense technology, showcasing their determination for self-sufficiency. Despite initial skepticism, Israel now has an effective missile defense system at a reasonable cost, thanks to past US funding. The decision to pursue military autonomy was made in the 1990s, influenced by strained relations with the George HW Bush administration and a perceived lack of American support during the Iraqi missile attacks on Israel. This belief strengthened over time with successive presidents, as their efforts to make peace with the Palestinians clashed with Israeli desires to maintain control of the West Bank and blockade Gaza. Israel has sought to develop independent capabilities to lessen dependence on US influence and pressure, including independent intelligence gathering. Israel has also shifted away from relying heavily on US protection against international isolation, seeking acceptance from Western democracies and enjoying a warmer international climate. Powers that used to oppose Israel with an "anti-imperialist" stance have shifted their focus. Although opinions about Israel vary internationally and are particularly negative in Muslim-majority countries, Israel has managed to establish relationships in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Even neighboring Arab states like Jordan and Egypt, former enemies, are now pursuing peace, and tensions with other Arab nations have decreased. In the past year, agreements such as the Abraham Accords, facilitated by Trump, have led to Israel normalizing relations with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, as well as establishing diplomatic ties with Morocco and Sudan. Dahlia Scheindlin, an Israeli political analyst and pollster, mentioned that there used to be discussions about an impending diplomatic crisis, but it never happened. She conducts an annual poll where Israelis rank national challenges, with security and the economy consistently being the top priorities. Foreign relations have now fallen to the bottom of the list. European diplomats issue warnings without consequences, Democrats discuss the future of the alliance, but Israelis see their international standing as strong. Israel has also aimed to distance itself from American diplomacy. In the mid-2010s, Benjamin Netanyahu opposed Obama's reelection due to his Middle East policies, straining relations. Netanyahu has since built relationships with illiberal democracies like Brazil, Hungary, and India, who admire Israel's treatment of Palestinians. This strategy, dubbed the "other friends policy" by Scheindlin, has led Israelis to believe US acceptance is no longer essential for their survival. The increasing nationalism has led to a greater willingness to ignore international criticism, making Washington's support for Israel's democratic credentials less significant. It has been traditionally believed in Israel that one of the main responsibilities of any prime minister is to maintain bipartisan support from Washington. However, when Netanyahu sided with Republicans in the mid-2010s, including criticizing Obama in Congress, he was expected to face backlash at home. Despite this, Obama and congressional Democrats did not adjust their support. Americans elected Trump, who showed more support for Netanyahu than any previous president, which led to a feeling of confidence among Israelis. They learned that they can manage any tensions in the relationship. In recent focus groups conducted after Biden's election, it was found that Israelis no longer worry about backlash from American politicians. They are not as concerned and see it as just part of dealing with America. Many Israelis have become disinterested in the peace process, viewing it as hopeless and not a top priority due to the current tolerable status quo. This shift in Israeli public opinion has altered the relationship with the US, as Israeli leaders no longer feel the need to show they are seeking peace sincerely. Instead, they are facing more pressure to go against American wishes, such as expanding settlements in the West Bank or even annexing it. Israel is not the first small state to seek independence from a powerful patron, but what makes this case unique is that it was the Americans who helped build up Israel's military and diplomatic independence, reducing their own influence. After almost 50 years of not using this leverage to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it may soon be lost forever. Mizrahi-Arnaud believes that Israel now feels emboldened to act without consequences, questioning the last time the United States pressured Israel. | 1 |
Indian defence analysts have advised the Indian government to not become complacent in strengthening ties with Bangladesh and moving towards a strategic partnership. A report released by the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi called for faster implementation of agreements made in a joint communiqué in 2010, including addressing security, trade deficit, and border issues. The report emphasized the importance of continuing the positive momentum in bilateral relations following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit, and suggested that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's upcoming visit to Dhaka presents an opportunity to elevate India-Bangladesh relations to a higher level by addressing mutual suspicions and demonstrating a commitment to building a strategic partnership. The report also highlighted the need to resolve longstanding issues such as border demarcation, enclaves, adverse possessions, the Teen Bigha corridor flyover, and river water sharing, which have strained relations between the two countries. They suggested that the two parties should explore new areas of collaboration in climate change, environment, agricultural research, water management, remote sensing, IT and communications technologies, marine technologies, medicine and health, and more. The report recommended establishing connections between relevant institutions, focusing on joint research and capacity building. It also emphasized the importance of both countries working together to address challenges such as pandemics and water contaminated with arsenic. In regards to the water-sharing issue, the panel advised the government to not let minor differences hinder reaching an agreement on sharing the water of Teesta and four other rivers, as Bangladesh is seeking an agreement on river water sharing. A preliminary agreement on the Teesta deal has been completed. The report praised Bangladesh for addressing India's security concerns and noted that India has been responsive to Bangladeshi concerns by offering a comprehensive assistance and cooperation package. These efforts have set the stage for improved relations between the two countries. The IDSA believes that security cooperation with Bangladesh is praiseworthy, but should be formalized to ensure continuity beyond any specific government. The report also highlighted the importance of information sharing and joint border patrols. The possibility of adopting the US-Mexico model for managing the border is being considered. The IDSA suggested that a counter-terrorism center could be established in Dhaka to support the South Asia Task Force proposed by Bangladesh, with India offering to fund the center. The group also emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation between the two countries in military activities such as search and rescue, joint patrolling of piracy-prone areas in the Bay of Bengal, capacity building, and joint exercises. The IDSA believes that defense cooperation will help build mutual confidence between India and Bangladesh. The text also proposed the establishment of a dialogue mechanism that includes both government and non-governmental organizations involved in de-radicalization efforts. It emphasized that fundamentalism and extremism are a common threat that requires close cooperation to address. In terms of trade, the report highlighted the importance of transit and prioritized connectivity, urging both countries to work together to make it operational as quickly as possible. A public campaign could be initiated to highlight the benefits of connectivity for both sides. Regional countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand would benefit from trade and transit connectivity between the neighboring countries. The report also recommends addressing trade issues, strengthening economic linkages, and encouraging Bangladesh to attract Indian investment. India is suggested to assist Bangladesh in upgrading its power infrastructure and to address the issue of illegal migration. Both parties should work towards establishing a conducive environment for resolving this issue peacefully. "Creative approaches such as implementing work permits may be worth considering." | 1 |
Alok Sharma, the chair of the conference, urged the nearly 200 national delegations gathered in Glasgow to agree on a deal that considers the needs of climate-vulnerable countries, major industrial powers, and nations reliant on fossil fuels for economic growth. He emphasized the importance of finding a balance and asked delegates to focus on whether the proposed package is fair and sufficient for everyone. Sharma closed the two-week conference, which had already gone over schedule, by urging attendees to consider whether the texts being discussed will benefit both people and the planet. Before a full meeting could be held to vote on the agreement, delegates from India, China, the United States, and the European Union met to discuss wording regarding a planned phase-out of coal, according to a member of the Indian delegation. The final deal must be unanimously approved by countries present, which include coal- and gas-dependent nations, oil producers, and Pacific islands threatened by rising sea levels. The main objective of the meeting is to work towards the goal set by the 2015 Paris Agreement to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. A preliminary agreement circulated on Saturday recognized that current efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are insufficient and called on nations to increase their climate commitments annually, rather than every five years as currently required. During a public discussion with key delegations, China, the world's largest coal producer and consumer, stated that they had no plans to renegotiate the agreement. The West African country of Guinea, representing the G77 group of developing nations, pushed for richer countries to provide more compensation for "loss and damage" caused by climate disasters. Guinea indicated that the group would accept the progress made. However, India, which relies heavily on its own coal for energy, expressed dissatisfaction. Environment and Climate Minister Bhupender Yadav mentioned that consensus was difficult to achieve, and it was unclear if India would block a vote on the agreement. EU Climate Commissioner Frans Timmermans warned against delaying the conference by asking for more changes. Scientists warn that exceeding a 1.5C temperature rise would lead to devastating consequences such as extreme sea level rise, severe droughts, powerful storms, and wildfires. The current commitments from countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions would only limit the global temperature increase to 2.4 Celsius. A draft released by the United Nations on Saturday called for phasing out coal power and reducing subsidies given to oil, coal, and gas by governments. Previous UN climate conferences have not specifically addressed the negative impact of fossil fuels on the climate. | 1 |
In Copenhagen, environment ministers are working to resolve disagreements between wealthy and developing countries before the deadline for a global agreement on addressing climate change. Yvo de Boer, head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized tensions between China and the United States regarding greenhouse gas emissions and expressed hope that all nations would increase their efforts in the negotiations. The ministers were engaged in informal discussions during a brief break in the December 7-18 meeting that includes 190 nations. This meeting will end with a summit of world leaders on Thursday and Friday, with the participation of US President Barack Obama. Danish Minister Connie Hedegaard informed reporters that there are still numerous challenges and unresolved issues, but there is also a growing political determination among the arriving ministers. The discussions involve delegates from both wealthy and developing nations who have been debating about the responsibility for reducing emissions, the required depth of cuts, and the financing of these efforts. Nations such as China and India believe that developed countries should reduce their greenhouse gas emissions more significantly and provide financial assistance to help poorer countries transition to more environmentally-friendly practices and cope with the effects of climate change. Indian Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching a fair agreement in Copenhagen, emphasizing the importance of trust, courage, and conviction. Developed countries argue that developing nations need to commit to reducing their carbon emissions to avoid reaching dangerous levels of global warming. China aims to finalize a solid agreement before Premier Wen Jiabao attends the summit with other world leaders. Senior Chinese envoy Su Wei stated that the leaders are coming to celebrate the positive outcome of the talks. On Sunday, Archbishop Desmond Tutu presented tens of thousands of signatures to the UN's de Boer urging for climate action. A church service at Copenhagen's Cathedral was planned with a sermon by Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams, attended by Danish royalty, followed by a global "bell ringing for the climate." Police have released all but 13 of the nearly 1,000 people detained after a peaceful march on Saturday, which turned violent in the evening with demonstrators damaging property. Some individuals who were taken into custody claimed that they were unjustly detained and mistreated by law enforcement. Hana Nelson, a 24-year-old student from Halifax, Canada, who was later released without facing any charges, stated, "They apprehended us without cause. We were all behaving peacefully." | 1 |
The Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kamrul Ahsan, and the Director General of Foreign Policy of the Portuguese Foreign Ministry, Pedro Sanchez Da Costa Pereira, led their respective sides during the meeting on December 6. They both agreed to enhance cooperation in order to strengthen and broaden bilateral relations. The discussions included topics such as trade, investment, power, energy (especially renewable energy), the blue economy, maritime resources, tourism, culture, employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, regional and international issues like Brexit, the Rohingya crisis, climate change, and other matters of mutual interest. Portugal praised Bangladesh for its socio-economic development and commended its significant humanitarian role in hosting a large number of Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. Portugal also expressed interest in participating in upcoming projects, particularly in infrastructure, ICT, power, and renewable energy sectors. The two parties have agreed to schedule frequent political discussions and regular visits at various levels, such as political, business, civil society, and grassroots groups, in order to strengthen their relationship. | 1 |
Bangladesh is already seen as a model for managing natural disasters, with the Prime Minister proposing to increase efforts in this area. However, it is believed that Bangladesh alone cannot address these challenges effectively. The government is open to collaborating with regional and global organizations such as BIMSTEC, SAARC, Delta Coalition, Climate Vulnerable Forum, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) to work on disaster management. Bangladesh is recognized as a leader in promoting climate issues on a global scale. The Foreign Minister made these remarks at the 2019 Thematic Meeting of PDD, Platform for Disaster Displacement, which was held in Dhaka and attended by high-level delegations and experts. Displacement caused by slow or sudden disasters is a widespread issue around the world, made worse by unpredictable climate change and environmental damage. Momen recounted stories from Bangladesh, such as a rickshaw puller in Sylhet who had to relocate to Barisal due to erosion of his farmland, forcing him to seek a safer area for his family. This man is just one of many in Dhaka, where a large portion of the population has been displaced due to climate change. The World Bank predicts that a one meter rise in sea level will displace 25 to 30 million people in Bangladesh. Momen inquired about the destination for climate change migrants, pointing out that Bangladesh is highly susceptible to climate change. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina implemented measures to adapt to climate change, including the adoption of the "Climate Change Strategies & Action Plan" in 2009. She mobilized communities, trained 60,000 volunteers, built 3,800 cyclone shelters, and promoted afforestation. Additionally, Bangladesh constructed embankments in 70-80% of coastal areas and provided irrigation in 80% of cultivable land. He also mentioned that Bangladesh has developed flood-resistant and salinity-tolerant crops to adapt to climate change. The country has implemented a 100-year Delta Plan to address climate challenges, which could cost an additional 2.5 percent of GDP annually. By 2031, this plan is estimated to cost $29.6 billion. The foreign minister praised the prime minister's efforts in implementing various mitigation strategies, resulting in less than 0.03 percent greenhouse gas emissions in Bangladesh. Despite being a non-rich country, Bangladesh has allocated a significant amount of its own funds to climate initiatives, including establishing two climate funds and starting river dredging and green afforestation projects. Regrettably, the recent arrival of almost 1.2 million Rohingyas from Myanmar is depleting our forests and causing an environmental crisis. | 1 |
The former Democratic vice president has dismissed the Republican incumbent's unlikely challenge to his victory and announced Ron Klain as his first major appointment as White House chief of staff. The ongoing surge in daily coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in the United States has shifted the focus of the presidential transition to the pandemic, which has worsened since the election on Nov. 3. Trump will remain in office until Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20, with foreign allies congratulating Biden on his win. The Elders, a group of former world leaders led by former Irish President Mary Robinson, have urged Trump to accept defeat, expressing concerns about the impact on American democracy. The focus is now expected to shift to Biden's selections for Cabinet positions, although aides have not given many hints about when announcements will be made. Antony Blinken, a diplomat and longtime confidant, is considered a potential candidate for secretary of state or national security adviser. The treasury secretary will need to address a recession, high unemployment, and work on addressing wealth inequality, climate change, and other important issues. Klain, who previously served as Democratic President Barack Obama's "Ebola czar" during the 2014 outbreak in West Africa, is anticipated to play a key role in the Biden administration's response to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases nationwide. Biden is bringing in Klain, a trusted and experienced operator who also served as a top aide to Democratic Vice President Al Gore during Bill Clinton's administration. Gore told Reuters that he was always well-informed and provided advice based on a strong understanding of the policy process, the quality of arguments, and the political and justice context. The United States set new records on Wednesday with over 142,000 new coronavirus cases and nearly 65,000 hospitalizations. The death toll rose by 1,464, nearing levels seen during the first wave earlier this year. Biden has secured enough battleground states to exceed the 270 electoral votes needed in the Electoral College, and is also leading the popular vote by over 5.2 million votes, or 3.4 percentage points, with some states still counting ballots. Ever since major news organizations declared Biden the winner of the election on Saturday, Trump has kept a light public schedule and instead used Twitter to express his grievances. He has not addressed the increasing number of virus cases across the country. Trump's main focus has been on trying to overturn the election results in closely contested states, despite lacking evidence of any irregularities that could impact the outcome. He has faced skepticism from judges. His team has been actively fundraising for legal challenges, with donations of more than $8,000 going towards financing election challenges. Smaller donations will go to the Republican National Committee or a newly formed political action committee, which can be used for purposes like travel expenses or other political campaigns. Democrats have accused Trump of trying to undermine public trust in the US election system and discredit Biden's win. Trump's time in office has been characterized by political divisions and the breaking of democratic norms. Edison Research has given Biden 279 electoral votes so far, with some news organizations including Arizona's 11 electoral votes in Biden's total. However, Edison Research has not yet called Arizona for Biden, despite his slight lead. Similarly, Biden is also leading in Georgia by a small margin. For Trump to stay in office, he would have to win Arizona and Georgia, as well as flip at least one state currently in Biden's favor before the Electoral College vote on December 14th. This is considered a very improbable situation. Trump mentioned on Twitter that if the total votes were audited, he would also win in Arizona. However, Arizona's Secretary of State Katie Hobbs stated that the margin was not narrow enough to warrant a recount. With almost 25,000 ballots still to be counted, Trump would need to secure 65 percent of those votes to surpass Biden's lead. Hobbs told CNN on Thursday that it is possible for errors to occur during the recount of Georgia's votes by hand, but he believes it is unlikely. Georgia's Republican secretary of state, Brad Raffensperger, stated that despite the unlikelihood of finding errors from the previous machine count, the hand recount will provide an accurate tally of the vote totals. Raffensperger made these comments during an interview with Fox News Channel on Thursday. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping joined forces on Monday with other countries to emphasize the importance of reaching an agreement to reduce the increase in global temperatures, which is causing floods, heat waves, and rising sea levels. However, as the leaders departed from Paris, negotiators from 195 countries were left to work on a draft text exceeding 50 pages that still contained numerous disagreements. The primary issue at hand is how to secure the necessary funds to support the transition to cleaner energy sources, essential for the development of emerging countries without heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Despite the challenges, many delegates viewed the strong turnout at the UN climate summit in Paris following the tragic attacks by Islamic State militants as a hopeful sign, especially compared to the failed summit in Copenhagen in 2009 marked by tensions between wealthy and developing nations. French President Francois Hollande expressed optimism for the ongoing talks, scheduled to continue until December. He told reporters that although the project had a good start, it still needs to be completed successfully. He mentioned that there were two potential obstacles: either the vessel could be overloaded and sink, or it could be emptied and not make any progress. The technical discussions did not include the grand language used on Monday. Countries reiterated their positions during negotiations with little indication of potential compromise. China's representative, Su Wei, expressed concern over the lack of dedication from wealthier nations to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and assist developing countries in addressing global warming. Alden Meyer from the Union of Concerned Scientists described the discussions as "nitty gritty," stating that while the opening day was positive, crucial issues remained unresolved. Peruvian Environment Minister Manuel Pulgar Vidal noted that the text still offered numerous options, but expressed optimism that all parties were committed to reaching an agreement. Positive developments included India and France's plan to raise $1 trillion for solar power in impoverished areas, as well as Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates' initiative to raise billions for new energy research and development. Yvo de Boer, the former UN climate chief in Copenhagen, stated that leaders still carry emotional wounds from the Copenhagen summit. He also acknowledged that the presence of many leaders on the opening day of the Paris summit shows their commitment to taking action. If a deal is reached in Paris, it would be the most robust agreement ever to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Liz Gallagher from the E3G environmental think-tank believes that the opening day of the summit has increased the likelihood of reaching an agreement, but she highlighted the significant gap in climate finance. Developing countries are requesting that wealthy nations commit to providing more than $100 billion annually by 2020 to help them access clean energy sources and cope with the impacts of climate change. Disagreements also exist over how to establish a long-term objective for phasing out fossil fuels. In June, the G7 nations agreed to aim for decarbonizing the global economy by 2100. However, China and India argue that they need to continue using coal to alleviate poverty and advocate for a transition to low-carbon development in the coming century. The commitments made by approximately 170 countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions post-2020, ahead of the Paris summit, are insufficient to effectively limit the increase in global temperatures to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This is commonly seen as a point at which the planet's climate system could undergo dangerous and potentially catastrophic changes. | 1 |
Bankrolled by Russian owner Roman Abramovich, Mourinho led Chelsea to consecutive league titles in 2005 and 2006 in his previous stint with the English Premier League club. However, the financial landscape has changed, with Uefa pushing clubs to move towards financial sustainability or face potential exclusion from competitions like the Champions League. Mourinho emphasized the importance of working closely with the board in financial matters and taking a different approach to player recruitment and development. Chelsea's recent signing of winger Andre Schuerrle for a reported fee of 18 million pounds marked their first signing since Mourinho's return. Mourinho stressed the significance of qualifying for the Champions League for the stability and success of Chelsea, especially in light of Financial Fair Play regulations. | 1 |
On Tuesday, Shahana Hanif, a former City Council employee, made history by winning her election in a Brooklyn district that includes Park Slope, Kensington, and parts of central Brooklyn. Hanif, who is Bangladeshi American, became the first Muslim woman to be elected to the Council, despite the city being home to an estimated 769,000 Muslims. Additionally, Shekar Krishnan, another South Asian candidate, also made history by winning a seat representing Jackson Heights and Elmhurst in Queens. Hanif expressed her gratitude for being the first Muslim woman on the Council and the first woman of any faith to represent District 39 in a statement on Tuesday night. She mentioned the support of volunteers and endorsements from various community and progressive groups, such as the left-leaning Working Families Party. She emphasized the importance of creating an inclusive and progressive city that protects its most vulnerable residents, provides equitable education, focuses on local climate solutions driven by communities, and ensures that immigrant neighbors feel welcomed and safe. She stressed the need for continued community involvement beyond the election. Additionally, next year will see the first out gay Black women serving on the City Council, with Kristin Richardson Jordan winning in Harlem and Crystal Hudson in a Brooklyn district. Several other LGBTQ candidates, including Tiffany Cabán in Queens, also secured victories. Chi Ossé in Brooklyn and Erik Bottcher in Manhattan were the only candidates running for their respective seats, while Lynn Schulman was predicted to win in Queens. These candidates are part of a trend in the New York City Council where diversity is increasing, with over two dozen women expected to hold a majority of the seats for the first time. | 1 |
President Barack Obama urged the world to take immediate action against global warming during a U.N. summit, although he did not present any new ideas to revive discussions on a climate agreement. Chinese President Hu Jintau also committed to reducing his country's carbon intensity. Obama emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that failure to address the issue could lead to irreversible consequences for future generations. He stressed that time is running out to combat climate change. Activists were optimistic that the United States and China would help push forward progress just 2-1/2 months before representatives from 190 nations meet in Copenhagen with the goal of finalizing a deal to combat climate change. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who organized the meeting, expressed concern that discussions were not advancing quickly enough. Ban emphasized the importance of reaching a comprehensive agreement in Copenhagen, stating that failing to do so would be morally unacceptable, economically short-sighted, and politically unwise. He stressed the interconnectedness of global issues, highlighting the lessons learned from the crises of the past year. Negotiations leading up to the December 7-18 meeting have caused disagreements between developed and developing countries regarding how emissions reductions should be distributed. Poorer nations are urging wealthier countries to provide significant funding annually to assist with adapting to climate change. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso expressed concern that the talks are close to a standstill and could collapse in a hostile manner. Obama and Hu, who are set to have a one-on-one meeting following the summit, may be able to help resolve the deadlock. If China were to take proactive steps to reduce emissions, it could potentially alleviate criticism from U.S. lawmakers who are hesitant to commit to emissions cuts without proof of Beijing's actions. Obama's efforts to decrease U.S. emissions through legislative actions have been less prominent compared to his focus on healthcare reform. However, he stated in his speech that in the past eight months, the United States has made more progress in reducing carbon pollution than ever before. | 1 |
Despite Prime Minister Justin Trudeau offering congratulations to Trump on his election victory and expressing a willingness to collaborate on trade and international security, the media has described the outcome as a surprising upset. According to a commentator in the Globe and Mail, a prominent daily in Toronto, the election has disrupted the historically stable Canada-US relations, with the US electorate's decision to prioritize border security posing a potential threat to Canada's dependence on cross-border dealings. The commentator mentioned that Canada is facing potential challenges due to Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential race. Trump has vowed to undo many agreements that Canada has worked hard to establish. Despite signing free-trade agreements to protect against protectionist US actions, Trump has specifically mentioned his intention to eliminate NAFTA. Canada's strong trade relationship with the US, where it sends over 75 percent of its exports, could be greatly impacted by Trump's proposed changes. It also shares approximately 4,000 miles of territorial boundary (excluding Alaska) with America. A NAFTA break-up will result in significant changes and pose a threat to the Canadian economy. During his campaign, Trump focused on the need for stronger borders, which could lead to slower traffic and trade, something Canada cannot handle. Trump promised to bring jobs back to various states and prevent companies from moving overseas without facing consequences. He criticized NAFTA as a failure and vowed to renegotiate or terminate it. However, there are some economists and commentators who believe that while protectionist rhetoric is common in US elections, the reality of governing may be quite different. In addition to questioning the value of NAFTA, Trump has also raised concerns about NATO, stating that he would require allies to contribute more to US protection. Canadian officials are reportedly preparing for a challenging period as the shock of the election results reverberates south of the border. Experts agree that there will be significant changes ahead, particularly in areas such as economics, trade, environment, security, defense, and international relations under the new US administration's 'America First' policy. Prime Minister Trudeau is continuing to push for climate-change policies to reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, but he may face challenges in selling these policies in Canada due to Trump being in power. During the election campaign, Trudeau refrained from criticizing Trump, likely in an effort to maintain a positive relationship for the benefit of Canada. While there are other areas of cooperation, such as cross-border security arrangements and NORAD, the question remains of how successful Trudeau will be in advancing the Canadian agenda with a protectionist US president who prioritizes 'America First'. Is Trump presenting a new dilemma for the Canadian PM? It will require a certain amount of time to receive the response. | 1 |
Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali informed Bangladesh journalists at around 6.30pm that they would reconvene after the official dinner, marking a unique occurrence in SAARC foreign ministers-level meetings where the meeting was adjourned after completing all agendas. He mentioned efforts to finalize the energy cooperation deal, while ruling out the possibility of signing two other deals related to road and railway connectivity during the summit. It was widely understood in Kathmandu that Pakistan was not willing to sign those deals. Although signing the agreements does not guarantee their implementation, it would demonstrate a shared commitment to connectivity, in line with the summit's theme of 'Deeper Integration for Peace and Prosperity'. The foreign ministers will set the agenda for the upcoming 18th summit, where the leaders of the eight member states will gather under tight security measures. The movement of accredited journalists has also been restricted. The summit holds significance as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to all SAARC heads of states to his swearing-in ceremony signaled a renewed effort to collaborate with neighboring countries. The relations between India and Pakistan are seen as crucial for the smooth functioning of the regional grouping. Bangladesh emphasized the timely implementation of regional projects during the foreign ministers-level meeting, where decisions were made to enhance the effectiveness of the regional grouping. Various topics including trade, economy, communications, energy, poverty reduction, climate change, and combating terrorism were discussed, with initiatives launched to address these issues. The meeting called for the timely organization of the summit and urged member states to submit their requests and offers under the SAFTA sensitive list reduction. Bangladesh proposed investments in tourism and urged the SAARC Development Fund Secretariat to undertake innovative projects in energy and communications. Additionally, plans were made to publish a biennial SAARC Development Report and enhance the functionality of the SAARC food bank. Various projects of the SAARC Agriculture Centre were reviewed, with decisions taken to transfer completed projects to the Center. The South Asian University in New Delhi was designated as a 'Centre of Excellence', with Bangladesh advocating for increased participation of its students and teachers. The South Asian Women Development Forum was recognized as a SAARC body, and the moratorium on new SAARC observers will continue. | 1 |
The top diplomats of Pakistan and India met in Islamabad on Thursday and indicated a united front against militant extremism, suggesting that further discussions may take place. This was the second meeting in four months between Pakistan's Salman Bashir and India's Nirupama Rao, following talks in New Delhi earlier this year. While the previous discussions were not deemed very successful, both sides described the recent meeting as cordial and sincere, paving the way for more extensive dialogue and hinting at a potential improvement in relations. Rao emphasized the need for cooperation in combating terrorism and preventing any disruptions in the progress of bilateral relations. The security situation between India and Pakistan is a major concern for India, as they accuse Pakistan of supporting militant groups to gain control over Kashmir and counter Indian influence in Afghanistan. India has made it clear that addressing militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba is a prerequisite for restarting talks on various disputes. Pakistan, however, has been hesitant to take action against Lashkar-e-Taiba's founder, Hafiz Saeed. There are hints that India may be willing to soften its stance on future talks. She mentioned that there was a significant amount of introspection happening. She also stated that they are focusing on the future rather than dwelling on the past. Pakistan was pleased with India's apparent change in attitude. Bashir expressed optimism and confidence about the outcome of the ministerial meetings and the future of the two countries' relationship. Prime Ministers Yusuf Raza Gilani and Monmohan Singh met in Bhutan in April at a regional summit in an effort to reinitiate talks between the two nuclear-armed nations. The Mumbai attack caused a significant strain in relations, hindering U.S.-led peace efforts in Afghanistan. Both prime ministers have instructed their foreign ministers and secretaries to meet soon to rebuild trust and continue the dialogue. Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi noted a positive shift in the talks and stated that officials from both sides will be meeting more frequently. This unexpected positive development in the dialogue was welcomed by both sides. The recent meeting was a positive move in the correct direction and was approached with the right attitude. However, there are concerns that strong internal issues may prevent both sides from making necessary compromises for progress. One potential obstacle to improving relations is the threat of another significant militant attack in India, which could lead to political pressure forcing the government to halt negotiations once more. India's Intelligence Bureau issued a warning about a possible militant attack on Thursday, with reports suggesting that the attack was intended to disrupt the ongoing talks. Onkar Kedia, a spokesperson for the Home Ministry, confirmed to Reuters over the phone that the Intelligence Bureau has issued a terror alert. | 1 |
Business leaders around the world welcomed U.S. President George W. Bush's recognition of climate change as a significant issue and urged for long-term emissions standards to assist in their planning. Despite not endorsing mandatory caps on carbon gases, Bush supported new technologies to reduce gasoline consumption in the United States. While executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos praised the White House's acknowledgment of alternative energies, they expressed the need for stricter U.S. emissions regulations to be implemented. Duke Energy CEO James Rogers emphasized the importance of future regulations for current investment decisions, as power plants being constructed now will be in use for decades. Rogers and Alcoa chief executive Alain Belda both emphasized the importance of being prepared for a new regulatory regime rather than waiting on the sidelines. Belda expressed the need for a unified rule on climate change in the United States to reduce risks for companies and lead other countries to tighten their emissions rules. In Japan, Yvo de Boer, the head of the United Nations Climate Secretariat, viewed Bush's environmental messages as a positive indication of changing attitudes towards climate change in the U.S. Former German environment minister Juergen Trittin also saw potential for improved transatlantic cooperation in combating climate change. However, some critics believed that the speech was inadequate and lacked a comprehensive plan. Sven Teske, a renewable energy expert at Greenpeace, called it a collection of technical suggestions without a real policy shift. Diane Wittenberg of the California Climate Registry expressed disappointment in Bush's speech. "He lagged behind and never caught up," she said, pointing out that most leadership on climate change in the U.S. has come from state governments and the private sector, who are trying to influence future environmental policies in their favor. "Businesses understand that climate change will create a new group of winners and losers in the business world, and they want to be among the winners," she explained. A new survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers, released at Davos, revealed that 40 percent of 1,100 global chief executives are worried about the threats posed by climate change, with only 18 percent of U.S. executives sharing the same concern. Mark Spelman, head of European strategy at rival consultancy Accenture, suggested that the increased focus on environmental issues by corporations is partly a PR move to attract environmentally conscious consumers, but also reflects the anticipation of rising energy costs in the future. "A forward-thinking CEO can foresee that the cost of carbon will increase in the future, affecting long-term profitability. Being proactive will put the company in a better position," Spelman concluded. Some people view the transition to a cleaner or low-carbon economy as a chance for business growth. Citigroup has identified 74 companies that could thrive in a more carbon-neutral world, such as companies in clean energy, water utilities, and automotive industries. | 1 |
An increase in anti-Western rhetoric is not likely to deter foreign investors from Libya, as Muammar Gaddafi has indicated that his political beliefs will not hinder economic reform. In early March, the long-time ruler criticized Western corporate "colonialism" during speeches commemorating the 30th anniversary of his Jamahiriyah system, which prohibits elections and political parties. These remarks are seen as an attempt to appease hardline advisors concerned about being marginalized by economic liberalization. They may also reflect Libya's dissatisfaction with what they perceive as insufficient recognition from the West for giving up their weapons of mass destruction in 2003. However, analysts believe that despite Gaddafi's strong opinions, they will not jeopardize the pro-business reforms he has initiated in the OPEC member country known for its oil and gas exports. Gaddafi has consistently expressed his displeasure with the pro-Western world economic order but acknowledges that Libya must cooperate with it to avoid economic calamity. Analysts believe his speeches are primarily for domestic audiences, as oil companies continue to operate despite his rhetoric. According to Monica Enfield of PFC Energy consultants, Gaddafi's behavior is typical of his eccentricity. Companies are accustomed to this behavior. Western companies may have concerns about this. Libyans are preparing militarily to protect against potential schemes by Western oil companies to put in place a figurehead ruler, according to Gaddafi. Gaddafi warned that anyone promoting colonization will face consequences. Gaddafi also suggested that an American company would be willing to support someone who promises to rule Libya and give them the majority of oil revenue. "Why not?" "They will offer him millions to make billions." Experts suggested that the speeches were directed towards members of powerful revolutionary committees who are concerned about their future in a more globally engaged Libya. The purpose of Gaddafi's loyal committees is to promote participation in government grassroots congresses and uphold loyalty to his ideology of no political parties. However, there are some committee members who have benefited financially from their connections to the government, leading them to view a more transparent and competitive business environment as a potential challenge. "He is appealing to the original supporters who rose with him," stated Mansour el-Kikhia, a Libyan political expert at the University of Texas. "These supporters are concerned that any change in his stance could impact them. He needs to assure them that they still hold importance." Ashour Shamis, a seasoned Libyan analyst based in the UK, suggested that Gaddafi's statements should be viewed within the framework of a battle between those in favor of economic reform and those against it. "Both factions are unsure of where they stand with him." He is attempting to reassure the committees by suggesting that while there may be changes in the future, they will not impact the core of the system. Some believe that the increasing business connections with the West show that the reformists are gaining support. A group of prominent companies, led by the US-Libya Business Association, visited Tripoli in December 2006 and were informed about $25 billion in investment opportunities. Association director David Goldwyn stated, "We were very impressed with the positive and productive discussions we had with the government." In February, Ahmed Fituri, head of the Americas department at Libya's foreign ministry, became the highest-ranking official to visit Washington since the announcement in 2003. Outrageous rhetoric was observed during Rex Tillerson's visit to Tripoli in February, where he attended the signing of an energy exploration venture. According to Claire Spencer of Britain's Royal Institute of International Affairs, the speeches made during the visit may have been a way to show that Libya still needs to be courted and remains important, especially after feeling ignored since the 2003 weapons move. It is believed that Libya suspects the US thinks it has already dealt with them, and they are now noticing that the more extreme rhetoric is coming from countries like Iran and Venezuela, which seems to garner more attention. In 2004, the United States lifted a broad trade embargo on Libya that had been in place since 1986, and diplomatic ties were restored in 2006. However, there have been disagreements between the two parties regarding the payment of restitution by Libya to the families of those who died in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Scotland. The bomb, which was connected to Libyan agents, resulted in the deaths of 270 individuals. Numerous relatives of the victims claim that Tripoli has not fulfilled its restitution obligations. | 1 |
Search and rescue teams looked for over 800 individuals who went missing in the southern Philippines following devastating flash floods and landslides that destroyed homes, resulting in the deaths of more than 650 people in areas that were not equipped to handle such severe storms. Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities on Mindanao island were the most severely impacted by Typhoon Washi, which struck while residents were asleep, causing widespread destruction. The Philippine National Red Cross reported that 652 individuals lost their lives in eight provinces in southern Mindanao, with over 800 individuals still unaccounted for. Gwendolyn Pang, secretary-general of the PNRC, stated that their office received numerous requests for assistance in locating missing family members, and they are working with local authorities, the military, police, and other organizations to coordinate search efforts. Floods caused by a typhoon swept away entire homes with families inside in numerous coastal villages in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. Mayor Vicente Emano of Cagayan de Oro expressed that this was an unprecedented event for their city during a radio interview. He mentioned that officials were not adequately warned before the typhoon hit. However, the state disaster agency stated that officials and residents were given sufficient warnings three days prior to the typhoon's arrival on Friday. As a result, bodies were piling up and soldiers were building coffins to handle the grim situation, with disaster and health officials facing challenges in managing the aftermath. Some bodies were piled on top of each other in mortuaries that did not have enough staff to handle the high number of dead. Vice President Jejomar Binay witnessed bloated bodies of women and children, numbering at least 100, during his visit to the severely affected areas in Cagayan de Oro. Binay provided food aid and ordered the evacuation of families residing near waterways and other dangerous locations. Brigadier General Roland Amarille, leading an army task force in Iligan, mentioned that soldiers were deployed to retrieve bodies and construct coffins. Amarille expressed the urgent need for body bags and lime to address the large number of corpses, as he was concerned about the potential spread of disease. He mentioned that local mortuaries are no longer able to accept bodies and are urging people to bury the deceased immediately due to an overwhelming number of bodies, even filling hallways. The majority of the casualties were from a slum area on an island between two rivers in Iligan, where approximately 70 percent of the houses were swept into the sea. Mindanao island, known for its mineral resources and agriculture, is not typically in the path of the 20 typhoons that hit the Philippines annually. Pang emphasized the need to educate people on climate change in order to address these challenges. In just one day, the amount of rainfall typically seen in one month fell. Typhoons usually hit the central Visayas region, as well as the south and east of Luzon, the main island in the north. Carmelita Pulosan, age 42, and her eight family members and neighbors managed to survive by sitting on the tin roof of their house, which drifted miles out into the open sea after floodwater engulfed their village. Fortunately, they were rescued by a cargo ship. Pulosan described the terrifying experience as a deafening sound followed by a sudden rush of water. Pulosan, a resident of Cagayan de Oro, told Reuters that she and her family were swept out to sea by the strong current after finding themselves in the river. She expressed gratitude to God for saving her family, as only one 3-storey building remained standing in their village. Red Cross official Pang stated that both officials and residents were caught off guard by the unexpectedly large amount of water flowing down the mountains into the river systems, as the area is not typically in the typhoon belt. She mentioned that Cagayan de Oro had not seen significant flooding since 2009, when there was minimal damage and no fatalities. Upon returning to their devastated villages, many people discovered their homes had been destroyed. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton expressed readiness to assist the Philippines, a key ally of the United States. A Chinese embassy official announced a donation of $10,000 to aid in the relief efforts. Washi, which has been weakened to a tropical storm with wind speeds reaching 80 km per hour (50 miles per hour), was located approximately 60 km (40 miles) west of Puerto Princesa in the southwest. It is forecasted to exit the Philippine area by late Sunday. | 1 |
An African Union summit began on Monday with Sudan determined to take on the chairmanship despite criticism of the ongoing violence in Darfur. Sudan insists it should receive the chairmanship, even though many rights organizations and Western governments are demanding otherwise due to the atrocities in Darfur. Sudanese Foreign Minister Lam Akol stated that he believes responsible AU leaders will not be swayed by external pressure from rights groups. The chairmanship was initially promised to Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir a year ago, but was withheld due to the violence in Darfur, which has resulted in the deaths of 200,000 people and displacement of 2.5 million. Critics argue that rather than decreasing, the violence has actually intensified in the past year, with government-backed Arab militias responsible for the deaths of thousands. Sudan's president, Bashir, has consistently opposed the deployment of UN peacekeepers to support the African Union military mission of 7,000 troops and monitors, which is already stretched thin. During the summit, the AU's top diplomat, Alpha Oumar Konare, accused Sudan of targeting civilians in Darfur and urged the government to cease its attacks and work towards peace. Amnesty International warned that the AU would compromise its credibility if it elected Bashir as chairman while human rights violations persisted in Sudan's Western region. Chad has indicated that it will leave the African Union if Sudan's President Bashir is elected as the chair, due to strained relations stemming from the Darfur conflict. Chad's President Idriss Deby stated that this scenario is unlikely to happen, while Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Aboul Gheit mentioned that Sudan's candidacy for the chairmanship is expected to face significant opposition. Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo expressed optimism that the issue of the chairmanship will be resolved more easily than in the previous year. Diplomats are working on promoting Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as an alternative to Bashir, but the decision has not been finalized. Western governments are supporting Kikwete, with British Africa minister David Triesman emphasizing the importance of the African Union's success in international relations and diplomacy. A committee of seven "wise men", including Obasanjo, will be discussing the Sudan issue on Monday and then presenting recommendations to the full summit, according to delegates. The meeting in Addis Ababa will also cover topics such as raising a peacekeeping force for Somalia, unrest in Guinea, climate change, and the AU military mission in Darfur, but it is believed that Sudan will dominate much of the discussion. Delegates mentioned that opposition to Sudan is growing among AU governments, with concerns about how a country dealing with internal conflict can address other issues on the continent. One African delegate stated that leaders are aware of this challenge and are working towards finding a solution. | 1 |
Australia's two main political parties are trying to win over independent lawmakers after a close election resulted in the country possibly having its first hung parliament since 1940. Financial markets are expected to experience a sell-off when trading resumes on Monday, as both the Labor party and the opposition are struggling to secure a majority. The uncertainty surrounding the election results could have a negative impact on the Australian dollar and shares, with analysts predicting a potential drop in value. With 78 percent of votes counted, a hung parliament is the most likely outcome, with two possible scenarios for a minority government being discussed. One option is a conservative administration supported by rural independents, while the other is a Labor government supported by Green or environmentally-conscious MPs. This latter option is causing concern for many investors, as Prime Minister Julia Gillard has expressed willingness to consider the policies of these diverse lawmakers. Gillard stated her intention to negotiate in good faith for a successful government agreement, emphasizing that her Labor party was more capable of providing stable government as they had received more votes than the conservatives. Conservative leader Tony Abbott also met with some crossbench MPs and expressed his willingness to be pragmatic in discussions while staying within the policy parameters set during the election. Lawmakers from the Green Party and two independent candidates who won in the election have different priorities, such as higher taxes and more open government. The Green Party, expected to have a significant influence in the Senate, will focus on addressing climate change. Meanwhile, Labor has delayed its carbon emissions trading scheme, and conservatives are against a carbon price. Greens leader Senator Bob Brown has proposed a temporary carbon price of A$20 a tonne. Treasurer Wayne Swan assures that the current Labor government will provide stability until a new government is formed. He stated that Australia's economy is one of the strongest in the world, with a stable financial system and effective regulators who have worked well with both political parties. According to UBS chief strategist David Cassidy, investors would prefer a minority conservative government over a Labor-Green coalition as conservative leader Abbott has promised to eliminate Labor's proposed 30 percent mining tax. This tax has impacted mining stocks like BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, as well as the Australian dollar. Cassidy believes that the market is prepared for some selling due to uncertainty, with markets being uneasy about a Labor government with Green support. Greens leader Brown met with Gillard, who had removed former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in a party coup in June, for initial discussions on Sunday. However, Brown later clarified that no agreements were made, no policies were talked about, and no demands were put forth. He expressed his willingness to also meet with Abbott, stating that his party has a history of responsibly working with larger parties to achieve positive outcomes in situations where there is a balance of power. Election analysts predicted that both Gillard's Labor party and the opposition conservatives would likely not have enough seats to form a government on their own, leading them to rely on four independents and a Green MP to gain power. One independent candidate, Andrew Wilkie, who aligns with the Greens and center-left, stated that he had received a call from Gillard but did not disclose which major party he would support. Wilkie mentioned that he is open-minded and will support the party that can provide stable and "ethical" governance. Another independent candidate, Bob Katter, who is known for wearing a stetson hat and hailing from the outback, stated that he would back the party that he believed would prioritize the needs of rural communities and protect their rights to engage in outdoor activities like fishing, camping, hunting, and shooting. Independent Tony Windsor expressed willingness to hold discussions with any party once the election results were finalized, according to local media. Some independent candidates hold protectionist views and are vocal about their concerns regarding Chinese investment in Australian resources. | 1 |
Trump's victory in the election may lead to a significant benefit for Moscow - the removal or reduction of Western sanctions. These sanctions were imposed by the US and EU as a response to Russia's actions in Crimea and eastern Ukraine in 2014. If these sanctions are lifted, it could boost investment in Russia's struggling economy, making it easier for Putin to win a fourth term as president in 2018. Charles Robertson, global chief economist at Renaissance Capital, believes that the chances of sanctions being lifted on Russia have increased, which would improve the investment environment in the country. Following Trump's election victory, Russia's rouble currency and stocks saw an increase in value. Conversely, Ukraine's dollar-denominated bonds experienced a decline to multi-month lows, reflecting concerns about the implications of a Trump presidency for the country. The Kremlin had anticipated strained relations with a potential Clinton presidency, as she was previously accused by Putin of inciting protests against him. In contrast, Trump was portrayed in a more favorable manner, with Putin describing him as "very talented" and Kremlin-backed media depicting him as a bold political outsider. Despite initial skepticism in Moscow, a group of Trump-supporting nationalists at a bar celebrated his victory with a triptych of Putin, Trump, and Marine Le Pen. Russia's parliament applauded his win, and Putin expressed readiness to restore ties with Washington. State TV showed a Russian Trump lookalike mocking Clinton, while RT's boss planned to drive around Moscow with a US flag. However, there was concern that Trump's promises may not be fulfilled and that tensions between Moscow and Washington will persist, despite a friendly public demeanor between Trump and Putin. Congressional restrictions could also limit Trump's efforts to ease sanctions on Russia. Executives from Western companies believe that the main hindrance to making deals with Russia is not the current sanctions, but rather the fear of additional sanctions being imposed and the strict enforcement of existing ones. If a Trump administration were to indicate to businesses that it was taking a more lenient approach, investments could resume despite the sanctions remaining in place. A more relaxed stance from the US could also undermine the determination of European countries to uphold sanctions. Some member states within the bloc are already finding ways to bypass the sanctions, while others are calling for discussions on moving forward. Additionally, certain business groups in countries like Germany are lobbying against the sanctions. Up until now, the US has played a role in strengthening European solidarity on the issue. When Russia issued a Eurobond in May, numerous European banks opted out to avoid potential repercussions from US financial regulators. Political analyst Masha Lipman noted that America's influence has kept Europe united on sanctions, but with Donald Trump as President, there could be a shift that benefits Russia. Putin is eager to have sanctions lifted as they could harm his chances for re-election. Russia's central bank is predicting economic growth of around 1 percent next year, much lower than what Russian households are accustomed to. In the past, foreign lending and investment have driven recoveries after economic slumps. There are indications that the economy's struggles are weakening support for Putin, a trend that is expected to continue leading up to the next Russian presidential election in 18 months. Experts on Russian politics say that even with a less hostile relationship with the US under Trump's presidency, any potential agreement would require tough negotiations from both sides. Russia is pushing for international recognition of Crimea as part of its territory, a goal that has only been achieved by a few countries so far. Additionally, Russia wants Ukraine to do more to implement a peace agreement in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Russian separatists have influence. In Syria, Russia is assisting President Bashar al-Assad in the war through air strikes and military support. Russia is urging the West to abandon ideas of changing the government, cease support for what it considers to be hardline Islamists, and refrain from discussing potential no-fly zones. There is a possibility of a trade-off, with Russia offering concessions on Syria in exchange for the United States making compromises on Ukraine and sanctions. According to Georgy Bovt, editor of Russkiy Mir magazine, Russia's main focus is Ukraine, and if Trump indicates that the US is not concerned about Ukraine, Russia will be satisfied. Bovt believes that reaching a deal on Syria will be easier in this scenario. I believe that Russia will be willing to compromise on Assad because Ukraine is more important to them. There has been a lot of discussion in both Russian and Western media about the similarities and differences between Putin and Trump, despite the fact that they have never met. Both leaders are known for their tough rhetoric, and some Russian politicians have speculated that they could develop a close working relationship similar to the one Putin had with former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Trump has even mentioned the possibility of meeting Putin before his inauguration, but Putin's spokesman has stated that there are currently no plans for such a meeting. Individuals who are familiar with the leadership styles of both men cautioned that they are both sensitive to criticism. Andrey Kortunov, the director general of the Russian International Affairs Council, which is closely linked to the Foreign Ministry, expressed concerns about Trump being an inexperienced politician, describing him as unpredictable. Additionally, there were worries that Putin and Trump may have similar personalities, as they are both seen as strong and assertive. "They could attempt to evaluate each other. We must prevent that from occurring." | 1 |
The political deadlock in Italy and the uncertainty it brings has caused concern in Europe, especially as the situation in Cyprus has reignited fears of the euro zone debt crisis resurfacing. Bersani, the center-left leader, won the majority in the lower house but not in the Senate, making it difficult for him to govern without support from other parties. If no agreement can be reached between the divided parties, Italy may end up with a caretaker government followed by new elections possibly in June. Despite some small victories for Bersani, the prospects of a minority government lasting long are slim. Italy's economic situation is dire, with high debt and unemployment levels, making it crucial for the political crisis to be resolved quickly. However, the parties seem more hostile than cooperative, with Grillo refusing to support any government led by another party and Berlusconi making controversial demands. The situation remains tense and uncertain, with potential protests and further political turmoil on the horizon. | 1 |
Hogir Fathi, a 24-year-old fighter in the Kurdish peshmerga forces, was eagerly anticipating a visit to his village in autonomous Kurdistan when he was killed by a bomb on the frontline against Islamist militants. His father, Mehdi, also a peshmerga fighter, expressed pride in his son's martyrdom and emphasized the importance of sacrifice for an independent Kurdistan. The Kurds, who have long sought their own state, have recently seen an opportunity for independence as conflict among Iraq's Arab population raises the possibility of partition. Despite calls for secession and support for independence in a referendum, economic and external pressures may delay a final break from Iraq. Kurdistan Vice President Kosrat Rasul Ali, a seasoned peshmerga commander, stated that while all Kurdish people support independence, the leadership must carefully consider whether the timing is appropriate. He emphasized the importance of assessing the political climate to avoid any misadventures. The threat of secession has historically benefited the Kurds in negotiations with Shi'ites and Sunnis in post-Saddam Iraq.
The five million Iraqi Kurds, predominantly Sunni Muslims, have significant autonomy, with their own armed forces and oil exports, much to the displeasure of Baghdad. Turkey's previous hostility towards Kurdish independence may no longer pose a major obstacle, as Ankara has collaborated with Iraqi Kurds to secure its borders and purchase oil. Iran, on the other hand, opposes Kurdish secession, viewing it as an attempt to unfairly claim Iraq's resources.
Tensions within Kurdish politics stem from differing allegiances to Turkey and Iran, with the Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) aligning more closely with Turkey and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) having stronger ties to Iran. These factions control separate territories and peshmerga units within Iraqi Kurdistan. A senior member of the PUK, which includes Iraq's President Jalal Talabani and Kurdistan Vice President Rasul, warned that failure to balance relations between Iran and Turkey could have negative consequences. An Iranian official accused the KDP of being part of a conspiracy with Turkey and Sunni forces to support the Islamic State. The US is pressuring Kurds not to break away from Iraq and to join a coalition with Shi'ites and Sunnis. Many Kurds are unhappy with this policy but are reluctant to lose powerful allies. Kurdish leaders are using their influence to negotiate for concessions, particularly on oil exports. Baghdad reduced the Kurds' budget share in response to independent oil sales, causing an economic crisis. It may take years for the Kurds to make as much money through oil exports as they would from a share of Baghdad's revenues. While some believe in the cause of sovereignty, others argue that delaying independence may be more economically beneficial. A practical Kurdish leadership might wait to observe how Iraq's various groups and their international allies handle the Islamist offensive before making any decisions. According to a Western diplomat familiar with Iraqi politics, the Kurds are currently in a strong position and pursuing independence could have more drawbacks than benefits. | 1 |
Democratic lawmaker Gary Ackerman stated this week that while the Obama administration may be dealing with issues in Afghanistan, the more significant threat lies in neighboring nuclear-armed Pakistan. In order to defeat al Qaeda, President Barack Obama must focus on Pakistan and its border with Afghanistan, which he referred to as the "epicenter" of violent extremism. Ackerman expressed concerns over the worth of risking lives in a region that may not hold much value on its own. Former CIA analyst Bruce Riedel emphasized the difficulty in getting Islamabad to collaborate in the fight against extremists, given the complicated political situation in Pakistan. President Asif Ali Zardari's government is in a precarious position, with public opinion still strongly against the United States, although less so than during the Bush administration. Increased pressure from the US only adds to Zardari's already tenuous position, especially with the army and police. According to Riedel, from the Brookings Institution think tank, navigating this delicate balance is challenging and changing Pakistan's strategic behavior will not happen quickly. It is a process that will take time, possibly years. The Pakistanis are feeling uneasy about the actions of the United States in Afghanistan. They are conflicted about the idea of a surge of 30,000 more U.S. forces entering the country, as well as the possibility of Washington withdrawing too quickly and causing further destabilization in the region. Robert M. Hathaway, director of the Asia program at the Wilson Center, pointed out that Pakistan does not want the U.S. to increase its presence or leave, but also does not want to take more action to support American and NATO efforts in Afghanistan. Congress has been urging the Obama administration to pressure Pakistan more, with Democratic Senator John Kerry highlighting the threats of al Qaeda in Pakistan, its connections to the Taliban in Afghanistan, and the risks posed by an unstable, nuclear-armed Pakistan. Senior US officials, including national security adviser James Jones, have visited Pakistan to discuss the new Afghan strategy and to urge Islamabad to do more. Obama has proposed a variety of incentives to Zardari, such as improved intelligence sharing and military cooperation. Experts anticipate an increase in CIA-operated drone attacks on suspected al Qaeda and Taliban targets as part of the new strategy. There have been nearly 50 drone air strikes in northwestern border regions this year, resulting in the deaths of about 415 people, including many foreign militants. The United States has provided over $10 billion in military aid to Pakistan since 2001, with additional funds being rushed to the military in recent months. The assistance is largely kept low-key due to political sensitivities and concerns about upsetting India, Pakistan's rival but a key ally for the U.S. in the region. The Pakistani government is seeking more F-16 fighter jets, as well as jets capable of operating at night, as their current capabilities are mostly limited to daytime operations. During a strategic review, Vice President Joe Biden advocated for a greater focus on Pakistan, leading to discussions about the potential for increased "unilateral operations" within the country, a move that most experts view as highly risky. Hathaway expressed reservations about the idea, suggesting that while limited operations might be justified in certain circumstances, making it a regular military tactic would likely have negative consequences. Nick Schmidle, a fellow at the New America Foundation who has written a book on Pakistan, warned that any radical, unilateral actions, such as sending in special forces, could further alienate pro-Western factions in Pakistan. He also noted that despite efforts to improve relations, the deep-rooted mistrust between the United States and Pakistan remains a significant obstacle. Furthermore, a proposed $7.5 billion non-military aid package from the US has been met with skepticism, particularly from the Pakistani army, which believes it comes with too many strings attached. Democratic Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey remarked that the other party does not appear interested in establishing a strategic partnership. While they are interested in receiving financial support and equipment, ultimately they are not willing to invest in a relationship that requires too much from them. | 1 |
Industrialized nations are increasing their efforts to support countries affected by the Arab Spring in rebuilding their economies by providing more access to international credit markets, investment, and trade, according to a senior State Department official. The G8 leaders' summit also emphasized the need to stabilize the transition economies of Egypt, Libya, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia. The Deauville Partnership, launched last year by the G8, includes global lenders like the IMF and World Bank to support these countries in the wake of political upheavals. While there have been political and economic advancements since the Arab Spring, financial challenges persist and countries must focus on increasing exports and attracting foreign investment. The meeting aimed to show political support for these countries and acknowledge the ongoing work needed for their development. "Although there are changes happening, they still face significant financial challenges and require resources. The economic weaknesses in their main Mediterranean markets are not helping their situation," he explained, referring to the euro zone economic crisis. The G8 has decided to establish a program to assist these five countries in accessing international capital markets at reasonable financing terms in order to meet their financial requirements and enable government entities to invest in job-creating projects, according to statements from the State Department and U.S. Treasury on Monday. Additionally, G8 donors have agreed to establish a transition fund to enhance government institutions crucial for economic development. Hormats noted that the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is seeking to amend its charter to establish a $4 billion special fund for investment in the region over the next three years. "We would like to complete the plans within the next month or so, but definitely by September," he said. Hormats mentioned that additional meetings regarding the Deauville Partnership would occur at a G20 leaders' summit in Mexico next month, on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York in September, and at October meetings of the World Bank and IMF in Tokyo. He mentioned that he would be traveling to Paris and Tunis in the coming days to promote more investment and trade opportunities. While budget limitations prevented the United States from providing new aid to the countries, Hormats stated that Washington could offer support through various agencies such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the Export-Import Bank of the United States, and the Overseas Private Investment Corp. Hormats also emphasized that G8 efforts were aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in the countries, which would ultimately improve the business environment. Additionally, these efforts would help facilitate the return of stolen assets through the Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative, or StAR, managed by the World Bank and United Nations, which involved recovering stolen funds hidden overseas by former government officials. Political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa has led to a decrease in economic growth, prompting governments to spend large amounts of money to generate employment opportunities and combat rising expenses in order to prevent further protests. The region has also been negatively impacted by the debt crisis in the euro zone, which has caused global economic instability and a decrease in demand. The tourism industry, a key source of income for Tunisia and Egypt, has suffered, as have worker remittances. Egypt is currently in discussions with the IMF to finalize a $3.2 billion loan, although experts estimate the country's financial requirements to be around $15 billion. The IMF has indicated it could provide $35 billion to assist emerging Arab democracies. | 1 |
The parliamentary standing committee on the environment ministry established a monitoring body on Wednesday to oversee the use of Tk 400 crore allocated by the government to address the impacts of climate change. The sub-committee, led by Md Ekabbar Hossain MP, includes Sohrab Ali Sana, Manaranjan Sheel Gopal, Md Golam Sabur, and Giasuddin Ahmed. According to standing committee chairman Abdul Momin Talukder, the government has initiated a Tk 400 crore initiative to address climate change impacts, with Tk 300 crore to be utilized by various ministries and the remaining funds to be distributed among different non-governmental organizations in the country. Talukder also mentioned that over 5000 NGOs have applied for climate funds under this program. Talukder stated that the sub-committee's purpose is not to monitor the spending on ministerial projects, but rather to oversee the allocation of funds by NGOs. He also mentioned that the sub-committee will present its initial report within the next two months. Additionally, Talukder revealed that the standing committee had asked the home ministry to coordinate a joint operation involving RAB and police to combat piracy in the country's forest regions. | 1 |
The German embassy stated that the new German ambassador, Holger Michael, met with President Zillur Rahman in Dhaka on Wednesday. The ambassador conveyed friendly greetings from the German president to the people of Bangladesh. In a letter of credence, German President Horst Kohler emphasized the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Germany and Bangladesh. Ambassador Michael also praised Bangladesh's progress in combating poverty, while acknowledging the country's significant challenges, including climate change. He stated that Germany remains a significant development partner for Bangladesh and expressed optimism about growing trade and investment between the two countries. He emphasized the potential for increased trade and investment in both directions and reiterated their commitment to expanding trade relations. The ambassador affirmed Germany's support for efforts to enhance democracy and human rights in Bangladesh and commended Bangladesh's positive role in international politics. Michael expressed Germany's support for Bangladesh's initiatives in promoting regional cooperation and stability in South Asia, as well as its involvement in UN peacekeeping operations and leadership role among the Least Developed Countries. Before serving in Dhaka, Michael held the position of head of Trade Promotion at the Federal Foreign Office and also served as deputy head of mission in Bangkok and Hong Kong. Additionally, he has been assigned to various countries including Korea, Nicaragua, and Turkey. | 1 |
His shiny leather shoes made a crunching sound as he walked on the dust left behind by miners who had spilled cobalt-laden rocks from nylon bags. Albert Yuma Mulimbi, a prominent figure in Congo and the chair of a government agency that collaborates with international mining companies to exploit the country's copper and cobalt reserves, which are crucial in the fight against climate change. Yuma's objective is to transform Congo into a dependable cobalt supplier and to change its reputation for allowing a lawless environment where children are forced to work, and inexperienced and poorly equipped miners of all ages are at risk of injury or death. Yuma, who arrived at the Kasulo site with a high-level delegation in a convoy of SUVs to assess the challenges, stated, "We need to restructure the country and take charge of the mining industry." However, many in Congo and the United States view Yuma himself as a problem. The chair of Gécamines, Congo's state-owned mining enterprise, has been accused of diverting billions of dollars in revenues, according to confidential State Department legal filings and interviews with officials. Top State Department officials have tried to remove him from the mining agency and have pushed for sanctions, accusing him of using his position to enrich friends, family, and allies. Yuma denies the allegations and is working on a lobbying and legal campaign to clear his name in Washington and Kinshasa. He has hired lobbyists, sent money to a former White House official, offered intelligence about Russia and critical minerals to the US, and visited Trump Tower in New York, where he met with Donald Trump Jr in 2018. Despite having significant access to high levels of government during the Trump administration, he was prohibited from entering the United States just two months later. His influence in the mining industry has complicated Congo's efforts to attract new Western investors and maintain its position in the clean energy revolution, which is fueled by its abundant reserves of minerals like cobalt. Cobalt is essential for batteries in electric cars, as it helps reduce overheating and extend their range. However, due to its high price and the dangerous working conditions in Congo, it has earned the nickname "the blood diamond of batteries." Car manufacturers are now seeking alternatives to cobalt in their electric vehicles to avoid backlash from consumers, turning to other countries with smaller reserves as potential suppliers. If Congo does not address human rights issues in its mines, it risks diminishing its role in the growing economy. Even if Yuma works on resolving the issues, it may not be sufficient for new American investors who seek assurance that the country has tackled the history of corruption in the mining industry. President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo has attempted to sideline Yuma by appointing his own people in Gécamines, but he has not taken further action against him. Tshisekedi stated during an interview in Kinshasa that he has his own plan for improving the country's mining conditions and that it will be the government, not Yuma, who will make the decisions. The conflict between Yuma and the president reflects power struggles that have plagued African nations abundant in natural resources in the past. The outcome of this situation will have significant implications that go beyond just the continent, as the worldwide effort to combat climate change requires a shift from gasoline-powered vehicles to battery-powered ones. In Congo, the key question is whether Yuma will help the country take advantage of the global trend towards sustainability and prosperity, or if his actions will lead to more conflict and unrest. Statues at a roundabout in a mining center in Congo's Copperbelt illustrate the two different mining sectors in the country: industrial and artisanal. High-tech, industrial mines operated by global corporations such as China Molybdenum employ numerous individuals in Congo's cobalt industry. While these mines have their own issues, they are not primarily responsible for the country's negative reputation internationally. The artisanal sector, on the other hand, is a different story and is where Yuma intends to focus his reform efforts. This sector is made up of untrained adults and sometimes children who engage in largely unregulated mining activities, often trespassing on land belonging to industrial mines. Along the main highway that runs through many of these mines, there is a constant flow of individuals on motorbikes transporting bags of stolen cobalt, each valued at around $175, evading checkpoints by emerging from thickets of sunflowers. Due to a lack of alternative employment opportunities, many parents send their children to search for cobalt. On a recent morning, a group of young boys were bent over a road between two industrial mines, picking up rocks that had fallen off large trucks. Other children are engaged in more perilous work, such as mining in makeshift mines where some have lost their lives climbing deep into narrow tunnels that are at risk of collapsing. Kasulo, where Yuma is presenting his plans, exemplifies the frenzied atmosphere similar to a gold rush that can lead to hazardous mining practices. The mine, authorized by Gécamines, consists of rough excavations the size of city blocks dug into the ground. Once a thriving rural village, Kasulo was transformed into a mining area after a resident discovered cobalt deposits beneath a home. The finding caused a lot of excitement, leading to many individuals searching their yards. Currently, only a mango tree and a couple of purple bougainvillea bushes remain from the village gardens. Orange tarps secured with worn ropes prevent rainwater from entering the hand-dug shafts where workers extract cobalt. Georges Punga, who is now 41 years old, has been a frequent visitor to the mine. He mentioned that he began working in diamond mines at the age of 11. Since then, he has been traveling across the country in search of treasures buried in Congo's vast reserves: starting with gold, then moving on to copper, and now focusing on cobalt for the past three years. One afternoon, Punga took a break from digging and adjusted his dusty blue trousers over his sneakers, revealing scars on his shins from years of work-related injuries. Despite earning less than $10 a day, he manages to support his family and ensure his children go to school instead of working in the mines. "If I had the opportunity to find a different job, I would take it," he expressed. "I'm tired of digging," said officials in Congo, who have taken steps to address the haphazard methods used by miners, improve safety, and eliminate child labor. One of the measures includes establishing a subsidiary of Gécamines. Miners at sites like Kasulo will now be required to wear hard hats and boots, with tunnelling being prohibited and pit depths regulated to prevent collapses. Additionally, workers will receive more consistent and electronic payments to prevent fraud. Yuma, as chair of the board of directors, is leading these reforms, leaving Western investors and mining companies with no choice but to cooperate with him due to the increasing demand for cobalt and the importance of small-scale mines in the country's output. Once the cobalt is extracted from the mines, a new organization will purchase it from the miners and establish a set price, ensuring that the government can impose taxes on the sales. Yuma has a vision of creating a fund to provide financial assistance to workers in case cobalt prices decrease. Currently, miners typically sell the cobalt at a row of tin shacks stretching for a mile, where the noise of sledgehammers crushing rocks overwhelms all other sounds. At this location, international traders roughly evaluate the purity of the metal before making a purchase, leading to complaints from miners about being deceived. Yuma recently guided journalists from the Times on a tour of Kasulo and a newly constructed warehouse and laboratory complex nearby, with the intention of replacing the buying shacks. Yuma stated that the economic transition we are currently experiencing is centered around cobalt. He proudly showcased the unoccupied complex, emphasizing the importance of finding solutions for the artisanal mining issue in Congo rather than completely disengaging. However, critics argue that Yuma's plans have not yet made a significant impact on improving conditions for miners, despite his investments in new buildings. Some government officials question Yuma's leadership and suspect that his motives are more focused on personal gain rather than addressing issues such as child labor and hazardous working conditions in the cobalt trade. In his office at Gécamines, bottles of Dom Pérignon were on ice next to Yuma, surrounded by glass cases containing valuable metals and minerals from Congo's soil. He drank an espresso before his interview with the Times, surrounded by contemporary Congolese art from his own collection. He pointed out that his lavish lifestyle was proof that he did not need to cheat or steal to succeed. Yuma, one of Congo's wealthiest businessmen, acquired valuable riverside property in Kinshasa where his family established a textile business that produces military uniforms for the nation. He dismissed accusations of embezzlement, citing his early success and ability to afford luxury items like a BMW at a young age. Known for his constant flashy presence, he is famous for his extravagant lifestyle. His daughter's 2019 wedding is still a topic of conversation, with its Las Vegas-style ambiance featuring dancers in light-up costumes and large white giraffe statues as table centerpieces. He has held positions on the board of Congo's central bank and was recently reelected as president of the country's influential trade association, similar to the US Chamber of Commerce. The mining agency he chairs was nationalized and renamed under President Mobutu Sese Seko after Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960. Gécamines, which once held a monopoly on copper and cobalt mining, was one of the top copper producers in the world by the 1980s. Jobs at the company offered a generous salary, healthcare, and education for employees' families. However, Mobutu misused its funds for personal gain, a practice continued by his successors. Production at Gécamines dropped significantly by the 1990s due to lack of reinvestment and the accumulation of over $1 billion in debt. As a result, half of the workforce was eventually let go. In order to stay afloat, Gécamines underwent a reorganization, forming partnerships with private investors, primarily from overseas, with the agency holding a minority share. Yuma assumed control in 2010 with the promise of restoring Gécamines to its former status. However, according to anti-corruption organizations, mining profits began to disappear shortly after. The Carter Centre, a non-profit organization, estimated that from 2011 to 2014, approximately $750 million went missing from Gécamines' funds, with Yuma being partially responsible. Among the beneficiaries of Gécamines' partnerships under Yuma was Dan Gertler, an Israeli billionaire in the diamond industry. Gertler was sanctioned by the US for engaging in corrupt mining and oil deals worth hundreds of millions of dollars, according to the Treasury Department. A confidential report submitted to the State Department and Treasury, obtained by the Times, accused Yuma of nepotism, having stakes in businesses that received funding from a government agency he supervised, and directing work to a mining contractor in which he had shares. US authorities suspected Yuma of using money from the mining sector to support supporters of Joseph Kabila, the corrupt president of Congo for 18 years. Financial transactions were deemed suspicious, particularly during election cycles. According to the State Department's 2018 report on human rights in Congo, Yuma has been accused of defrauding the country of $8.8 billion, a claim he denies, stating he has generated billions in revenue for Congo. Yuma has aggressively defended himself against watchdog groups and critics, accusing them of being "new colonialists" and colluding with mining companies to hinder his efforts to reform the industry. He believes that this has resulted in the Congolese population being subjected to a form of modern slavery. Yuma has sent a detailed 33-page document to the Times outlining his defense and highlighting the smear campaigns aimed at damaging his reputation. He has also sought support from Washington elites, including top White House and State Department officials, by emphasizing the importance of partnerships with American companies to secure the US supply chain for minerals. Despite facing accusations of misusing the country's revenues, Yuma has attempted to improve his image internationally with the help of lobbyists and lawyers, including Joseph Szlavik and Erich Ferrari. Staying at the Four Seasons, he conducted meetings during two spring trips with officials from the World Bank, as well as the departments of Defence, Energy, and the Interior. He also traveled to New York, where he met with Donald Trump Jr. During this meeting, he was accompanied by Gentry Beach, a Texas hedge fund manager who was a significant campaign fundraiser for the former president and a close friend and former business partner of Trump Jr. Beach has been working to secure a mining deal in Congo and has previously invested with Trump in a mining project there. Beach did not respond to requests for comment. Yuma downplayed his interaction with the president's son, stating that someone wanted to introduce him to say hello. Trump stated that he could not remember the meeting. Yuma consistently emphasized that America required his assistance and he was prepared to offer his help. In Washington, he shared what he believed to be important information regarding Russia's attempt to obtain Congolese niobium, a durable metal resistant to corrosion and capable of withstanding high temperatures. Yuma claimed to have prevented the sale for the benefit of the United States, as reported by two US officials present at the meeting. Issues arose during one of the journeys. One of his lobbying team members was warned by a State Department official that Yuma was under investigation for corruption by the United States and would soon face consequences. In June 2018, the State Department officially barred him from returning to the US as part of efforts to combat corruption, without directly naming Yuma but referring to "several senior" officials from Congo, including Yuma. This move indicated to Yuma that he needed to strengthen his position even further. He planned to hire Herman Cohen, a former assistant secretary of state for African affairs under Bush, and George Denison, who had worked for President Gerald Ford. Joseph Gatt, a former Congolese airline and telephone executive living in Virginia and close to Yuma, also supported his cause. Gatt stationed an aide at the Fairmont, a luxury hotel near the White House, to arrange meetings with lobbyists to advocate for Yuma's permission to visit the United States. Gatt defended Yuma in an interview, denying the allegations against him and describing him as a clean person. Meanwhile, Yuma was working on improving his reputation in Congo by collaborating with the exiting president, Kabila, to become his proxy as prime minister, according to State Department officials. However, a senior US diplomat visited Yuma at his residence in Kinshasa to convey the United States' strong opposition to the plan, as revealed in an interview with the diplomat, J Peter Pham. Despite engaging in a conversation about political developments in Congo over a bottle of Cristal Champagne, the situation took a negative turn. Pham, who was serving as a special envoy to the region at the time, warned Yuma that the US was willing to deport his daughters, who were studying in the United States, if he continued with Kabila's plan. Pham informed Yuma that they could revoke his visa and those of his daughters. Yuma remained unfazed and enlisted an aide to Rep Hank Johnson to extend an invitation for him to visit the US and discuss his work in Congo. The invitation was also extended to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, but the State Department rejected it as an attempt to bypass the visa ban. Yuma continued to gather influencers to support his cause, with Denison briefly joining the Washington lobbying team to help ensure Yuma's ability to travel to the US without facing legal consequences. State Department officials were considering putting Yuma on a sanctions list, which could result in his international bank accounts being frozen. However, a $3 million contract between the two men did not specify that task, but instead stated that Denison was to enhance the business environment in Congo. After starting the project, Denison received $1.5 million and was instructed to transfer most of it to an associate of Yuma's. This transaction raised red flags for the bank and made Denison worried that he could be involved in money laundering without his knowledge. Denison hired a lawyer, resigned from the job, and eventually returned all the money. Denison described Yuma as a major criminal. Yuma remained silent when asked about the situation. Presidents Tshisekedi and Yuma were seen walking near a large terraced canyon at a cobalt mine owned by Glencore in the Copperbelt region. This region is heavily influenced by mining, with roadside markets selling mining gear alongside food items. The encounter in May was uncomfortable for the two political rivals. Tshisekedi, who has been in office since 2019 after a disputed election, has gained support from the Biden administration for his efforts in fighting climate change. He has appeared alongside President Joe Biden at various international events, such as a meeting in Rome and the global climate conference in Glasgow, Scotland. In his hometown, Tshisekedi has declared his plans to transform Congo into the global hub for strategic minerals. However, some individuals from Congo and the United States believe that Yuma must be removed for this vision to become a reality. Despite efforts to pressure Yuma to step down, he still maintains significant influence, which has left the State Department puzzled. Yuma continues to operate as usual, surrounded by a group of assistants who refer to him as President Yuma, acknowledging his business acumen and aspirations for power. He discusses plans to add seven additional floors and a helipad to his office building in downtown Kinshasa. He went as far as having one of his lobbyists locate Tshisekedi in New York during the United Nations General Assembly meeting in September to urge him to support Yuma. Yuma conducted a countrywide tour in Congo this year that resembled a political campaign. He aimed to visit every province, strategically starting in Tshisekedi's hometown, where he met with a group of struggling pineapple juice vendors. Before departing, he gave the group $5,000 in cash to help kickstart their business. In an interview, he stated that he is supportive to show his loyalty. Similar to the president, Yuma is seeking recognition for attracting American investors and believes that his reforms will be beneficial. He emphasized his friendship with America and expressed his commitment to promoting US investments in the Congo. He also mentioned his admiration for the United States. My kids were studying at the university in that area. In the future, people will come to realize that I am a true friend of America and I will continue to offer assistance. If his success hinges on revamping the mining industry, the challenge will be significant. Throughout the day, a main highway lined with numerous industrial mines sees trucks carrying copper and chemicals for metal extraction. Amidst these trucks are motorcycles transporting stolen cobalt, with one man driving and another acting as a lookout on top of large bags. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama acknowledged that disappointment over the outcome of the Copenhagen climate change summit was justified, joining the widespread opinion that the conference had failed. In an interview with PBS Newshour, he stated that while people had a right to be disappointed, it was important to recognize that the summit had not completely collapsed and some progress had been made. Despite this, the accord brokered by Obama was criticized by Sweden as a disaster for the environment, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown described the summit as flawed or chaotic, and climate change advocates were even more critical. The agreements reached at the summit were minimal and fell short of the original goals to reduce carbon emissions and combat global warming, as differences between rich and developing nations hindered progress in negotiations. Some people specifically blamed China for the lack of progress in agreeing to significant reductions in global emissions. British Environment Minister Ed Miliband accused China of "hijacking" efforts in an article in the Guardian newspaper. However, Beijing rejected this accusation and claimed that London was trying to create divisions among developing countries on the issue of climate change. While Obama did not directly accuse China, he did mention that the Chinese delegation was not participating in negotiations before his intervention. He stated that when tensions were high and negotiations were on the verge of breaking down, cooler heads ultimately prevailed. Obama reached an agreement with China, India, Brazil, and South Africa during the final hours of the conference after holding a one-on-one meeting with the leaders of these nations. He stated that they were able to agree on non-binding targets for all countries, including China and India, who are projected to be the world's largest emitters in the future. | 1 |
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda met with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss important issues such as climate change and a long-standing dispute over a group of Pacific islands. A senior Japanese official stated that Fukuda would emphasize the need for Russia to speed up negotiations to settle the territorial conflict over the islands, which has strained relations and prevented the signing of a peace treaty ending World War Two. Putin acknowledged the progress made in bilateral relations over the past few years and expressed commitment to continuing discussions on the peace treaty. He also noted that while trade between the two countries has increased significantly, there are still many unresolved issues that need to be addressed. Fukuda is scheduled to hold discussions with Dmitry Medvedev, who will be inaugurated as the head of state on May 7. Putin, who has served as president for eight years, will continue as prime minister and leader of the largest party. According to a Japanese foreign ministry official, Fukuda's primary objectives for the visit are to establish a trusting relationship with President Putin and President-elect Medvedev and to prepare for the upcoming G8 summit. The islands, known as the Southern Kuriles in Russia and the Northern Territories in Japan, were taken by Soviet troops in the final days of World War II. They are located just north of Hokkaido, where Japan will host this year's Group of Eight summit. Japan is prioritizing the search for a better alternative to the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, which will end in 2012, during the G8 summit. Tokyo is aiming to create a new climate change agreement that includes major polluters like the United States, China, and India, who did not sign the Kyoto Protocol. Russia, a G8 member, was one of the largest developing economies to commit to the Kyoto Protocol. Japanese officials are optimistic that Russia will also support a new agreement in Hokkaido. A senior Japanese government official stated that Prime Minister Fukuda plans to encourage Russian leaders to speed up discussions to resolve the territorial dispute. Fukuda is expected to emphasize the need for both countries to engage in concrete negotiations to improve bilateral relations. While Russia has expressed willingness to discuss the issue, they have not indicated any intention to relinquish control of the islands. A Kremlin official stated that they do not anticipate any significant progress in talks with Fukuda. In 2007, the trade between Russia and Japan amounted to $20 billion, driven by companies like Toyota Motor Corp establishing factories to access the growing Russian market. However, this trade volume is significantly lower than that between Russia and its main trading partner, the European Union. Japanese companies have invested in large oil and gas projects on Russia's Pacific Sakhalin island, and there is currently a pipeline being built to transport oil from eastern Siberia to the Pacific coast in the future. | 1 |
In an interview with the New York Times, Trump acknowledged a connection between human activity and global warming, contradicting his previous claims that climate change was a hoax. A source from Trump's transition team stated that he was exploring ways to withdraw the US from the 2015 Paris Agreement, but when asked recently, Trump stated he was assessing the situation with an open mind. If the US were to withdraw from the agreement, it would hinder global efforts to combat rising temperatures and the associated consequences such as animal extinctions, heat waves, floods, and rising sea levels. Trump, who will begin his term on Jan 20, expressed concerns about climate change and American competitiveness in a recent interview. According to a tweet by a Times reporter, he mentioned the potential cost to companies. Two advisors on Trump's transition team for energy and environment were surprised by his comments. This shift in attitude towards global warming indicates that Trump may be moving away from some of his campaign promises as he prepares for his presidency. He also suggested the possibility of building a fence instead of a wall in certain areas along the US-Mexican border to address illegal immigration. Additionally, he displayed reluctance towards pursuing investigations against his Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, during the interview on Tuesday. "I don't want to harm the Clintons, I truly don't. She has gone through a lot and suffered greatly in various ways," he stated to reporters, editors, and other newspaper officials at the Times headquarters in Manhattan. However, when asked if he would consider investigating Clinton for her family's charitable foundation or her use of a private email server while she was the US secretary of state under President Barack Obama's first term, Trump responded with a "no." If Trump does decide to break his campaign promise of appointing a special prosecutor for Clinton, it would be a reversal of his stance that he frequently mentioned during his campaign, where he referred to his opponent as "Crooked Hillary" and his supporters would chant "Lock her up." His remarks about Clinton to the Times upset some of his most ardent conservative backers. Breitbart News, previously led by Steve Bannon, reported on Tuesday that President Trump has decided not to pursue charges against Hillary Clinton for her email practices. The FBI found her actions careless but did not recommend charges. The Clinton Foundation has also been scrutinized for its donations, with no evidence of favors being granted to foreign donors while Clinton was Secretary of State. President Trump, a businessman with no prior political experience, dismissed concerns about conflicts of interest between his presidency and his family's businesses, stating that the law is on his side and that he cannot have a conflict of interest as president. Trump stated that his company is not important to him in comparison to his current responsibilities. While conflict-of-interest rules do not apply to the president, he will still be held accountable by bribery laws, disclosure requirements, and the US Constitution's prohibition on accepting gifts from foreign governments. Ethics lawyers from both Republican and Democratic backgrounds emphasize that the president is not exempt from the law. Richard Painter, who served under President George W. Bush, questioned whether the government should be run with the president simply trying to meet the minimum requirements. Norman Eisen, a former ethics lawyer in Obama's administration, echoed these concerns. Ivanka Trump, a businesswoman, participated in a phone call between her father, President Trump, and Argentine President Mauricio Macri, as well as attended a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, sparking concerns about potential conflicts of interest. President Trump expressed confidence that House Speaker Paul Ryan and other Republicans in Congress would support his trillion-dollar infrastructure plan, stating that they were highly supportive of him. Since winning the election on Nov 8, Trump has been interviewing candidates for key positions in his administration, including offering former Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson the role of secretary of housing and urban development, according to Carson's spokesman Armstrong Williams. Carson, a former surgeon who had a meeting with Trump on Tuesday, will consider the matter during the Thanksgiving holiday, according to Williams. Trump arrived in Florida on Tuesday night to celebrate the holiday on Thursday at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach. | 1 |
British officials stated on Monday that cyber attacks, terrorism, inter-state conflict, and natural hazards are the most significant threats to British security. The government emphasized the dangers posed by al Qaeda and Northern Ireland-linked groups in a new National Security Strategy, ahead of a major military review that includes potential deep spending cuts. The review aims to demonstrate that the armed forces' restructuring is driven by policy considerations rather than solely for cost-saving purposes. As Britain grapples with a significant budget deficit, it seeks to maintain its status as a strong military power in Europe and a reliable ally to the United States. The National Security Strategy report outlines clear priorities such as counter-terrorism, cyber security, international military crises, and disaster response. Insurgencies abroad that could potentially lead to terrorist attacks in the UK were categorized as a lower priority. The document mentioned that threats may come from various states, but emphasized threats from non-state and unconventional actors. This emphasis could be used to justify reductions in purchases of significant military equipment. The Ministry of Defiance's budget of 36.9 billion pounds ($58.62 billion) is expected to be cut by less than 10 percent, which is much lower than the average 25 percent reduction applied to other government departments. However, these cuts are still likely to have significant political, industrial, and diplomatic implications. The National Security Strategy also pointed out nuclear proliferation as a growing threat and noted that British security was at risk due to the impacts of climate change on food and water supply. | 1 |
Xi did not provide specific details, but the implementation of the policy could have a significant impact on the financing of coal plants in developing countries. China has faced pressure to stop financing coal projects abroad to help meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement. This announcement by Xi follows similar actions taken by South Korea and Japan. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US climate envoy John Kerry have encouraged China to follow suit. Xi stated that China will increase support for developing countries in green energy and will no longer build new coal-fired power projects overseas. Kerry praised Xi's announcement as a positive step towards success at the upcoming COP26 conference in Glasgow. "We have been in discussions with China about this for a considerable amount of time. I am very pleased to hear that President Xi has made this significant decision," stated Kerry. Alok Sharma, the leader of COP26, also praised the announcement. "It is evident that coal power's days are numbered. I appreciate President Xi's pledge to cease constructing new coal projects abroad - a crucial topic during my recent visit to China," he shared on Twitter. Xi addressed the audience following President Biden's inaugural United Nations speech, in which Biden outlined a new phase of intense competition without a return to a Cold War despite China's increasing influence. In his composed remarks, Xi avoided direct reference to the often contentious relationship between China and the US, where the Biden administration has prioritized climate change policies and sought collaboration with Beijing. Xi reiterated commitments made the previous year, including reaching a peak in carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. While some critics have deemed these goals insufficiently ambitious, they have allowed China to position itself as a leader on climate change following the US's withdrawal from the Paris agreement during the Trump administration. China, the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, continues to heavily rely on coal for its energy needs. When Biden took office in January, one of his initial actions was to reaffirm the United States' leadership on climate change by rejoining the Paris agreement. Justin Guay, the director of global climate strategy at the Sunrise Project, a group advocating for a shift away from coal and fossil fuels, highlighted that China's decision to stop public financing of coal would have a significant impact on global coal expansion. UN Secretary-General Guterres praised both China's commitment to reduce coal usage and Biden's promise to increase funding to help developing countries address climate change. In a statement, he emphasized that expediting the global elimination of coal is the most crucial action to achieve the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement. Hours earlier, Biden spoke about the importance of democracy triumphing over authoritarianism without directly mentioning China. He stated that the future belongs to those who allow their people to live freely, not those who suppress them. Biden also condemned the mistreatment of racial, ethnic, and religious minorities worldwide, including in Xinjiang, where China has been accused of operating internment camps for Uyghurs and other Muslim groups. China denies these allegations. Relations between the world's top two economies have deteriorated significantly in recent years due to various issues such as human rights and lack of transparency regarding the origins of COVID-19. Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of avoiding forming exclusive groups or engaging in zero-sum games, possibly referring to the US-led Quad forum aimed at countering China's influence. China expressed concerns about an escalating arms race in the region following the announcement of the AUKUS alliance between the US, UK, and Australia. Despite criticism over the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, President Biden believes it will allow the US to focus more on the Indo-Pacific region. Xi criticized military intervention and attempts at democratic transformation from external forces, likely targeting the US. | 1 |
This upcoming budget will be the final one of the current Awami League-led grand alliance government, which will not have the full fiscal year of 2013-14 to execute it. The Finance Minister mentioned in an interview with bdnews24.com that the annual development programme (ADP) has an estimated allocation of Tk 656 billion and the overall budget deficit is projected to be Tk 563 billion. The budgetary framework has been prepared by the Ministry of Finance and is available for viewing on bdnews24.com. The targeted GDP growth for the next fiscal year is 7.2 percent, with a proposed average inflation rate below 7 percent. Funds amounting to Tk 68.52 billion, Tk 19.83 billion, and US$ 608 million in foreign currency have been set aside in the next budget for the construction of the Padma Multipurpose bridge. The Finance Minister is scheduled to present the proposed budget in Parliament on June 6. The size of the national budget for the upcoming fiscal year has not been finalized yet, but it is expected to be over Tk 2 trillion, considering the total outlay for revenue and development in the current fiscal year was Tk 1.917 trillion. The targeted annual revenue income is set at Tk 1674.60 billion. To cover the budget deficit, Tk 211.1 billion will come from foreign assistances and Tk 351.8 billion will be borrowed internally. In the revised budget for the 2012-13 fiscal year, the estimated budget deficit and expenditure for the ADP have been adjusted. The new budget will prioritize power, energy, roads, ports, infrastructure, human resources development, agriculture, rural development, employment creation, social safety net, climate change, and 'Digital Bangladesh'. It will also aim to fulfill the electoral promises of the current government. The upcoming budget will enhance the foundation of economic and social progress established by the government in the previous four budgets. It will also establish a roadmap for future development under the next government. Additionally, the new budget will introduce a new framework to support the growth of the railway sector. | 1 |
During the dry season, cattle-keepers such as Lobunei prepare to lead their herds across the region to reach water sources, negotiating with communities along the way. This traditional practice, essential for the survival of the Karamojong people in an already challenging environment with unpredictable rainfall, is becoming more difficult due to limited access to common land, rising insecurity, and increased government involvement. Some herders are concerned that government interference is threatening their way of life and forcing them to rely on less reliable crop farming instead. Lobunei, in Nakapiripirit district, is finding it increasingly difficult to find routes for his cattle as large farms and a wildlife reserve restrict their movement. He must also obtain written permission from an increasing number of government officials who control movement across the grasslands where his ancestors once allowed their cattle to graze freely. He pondered whether they are the Karamojong or if it is the government that fits that description. According to a 2017 report by the Ugandan government and partner agencies, Karamoja has experienced longer dry periods and more frequent heavy rainfall since 1981. The report also warned that in the future, a warming planet will result in the area's rainfall being more unpredictable, unreliable, and intense. According to locals, the seasons have changed, causing the months to no longer match the natural events they were originally named after. For example, the month of "lomaruk" used to be named after white mushrooms that grew in March but now appear later. In the past, herders in the region could adjust by moving their animals and negotiating access to water and pasture using a system called etamam, or "sending a message", explained Emmanuel Tebanyang, a policy analyst at the Karamoja Development Forum (KDF). Elders would hold clan meetings to decide on migration, followed by sending scouts to find grazing areas. If a host community welcomed them, a bull would be sacrificed as a symbol of peace. Tebanyang stated that etamam is currently experiencing significant changes, with discussions now primarily conducted through local government officials who must approve migration in writing. The government has been regulating and documenting movement in Karamoja since colonial times, but in recent years pastoralists have noticed an increase in government control. Alex Lemu Longoria, a Karamojong elder and former mayor, described this shift as a new culture where government involvement is prevalent. The number of districts in Karamoja has increased from four in 2005 to nine, requiring herders to obtain authorization from a larger number of officials before crossing boundaries. Longoria mentioned that they no longer go there due to the problem. Many questions are being raised by officials about why they are relocating. Another obstacle is the increase in armed cattle-raiding since 2019, with weapons coming in from Kenya and South Sudan, causing herders to feel more fearful and authorities to become stricter. According to Karamoja police spokesperson Michael Longole, herders have freedom of movement, but traders transporting cattle face numerous restrictions imposed by authorities. Longole explained that the tightening of regulations is in response to the rise in cattle raids. One strategy to connect grassroots discussions with formal processes involves the establishment of committees focused on "peace" and "resource-sharing" consisting of community representatives, according to Denis Pius Lokiru, a program manager at international aid organization Mercy Corps. Since 2019, the organization has facilitated the signing of four agreements in Karamoja, overseen by government officials and integrated into local by-laws. Lokiru explained that these agreements outline how water and other natural resources can be shared peacefully to prevent conflicts. Additionally, the newly formed committees have increased representation of youth and women, as noted by Cecilia Dodoi, vice-chair of the Kotido Women's Peace Forum. Dodoi expressed that there has been significant progress in ensuring women's voices are heard, particularly for widows who have experienced the impact of conflicts firsthand. Tebanyang from the KDF questions the purpose of written agreements, suggesting that herders on the grasslands may not see the necessity of such documents. He believes that a thumbprint is a more reliable indicator of an agreement. President Yoweri Museveni of Uganda has advocated for a shift towards sedentary farming in Karamoja, stating that modern commercial agriculture is more productive. Although the majority of Karamoja's 1.2 million residents have traditionally practiced agropastoralism, which involves both cattle-keeping and small-scale crop farming, recent research indicates a shift towards a heavier reliance on agriculture. Satellite data analyzed by researchers from the University of Maryland revealed a significant increase in cultivated land area from 2000 to 2011. A study conducted in 2018 by the Karamoja Resilience Support Unit found that nearly 60% of households no longer have enough livestock to sustain a sufficient food supply. Despite this trend, local experts caution against focusing solely on crop cultivation in the face of escalating impacts of climate change. Simon Peter Lomoe, executive director of the Dynamic Agro-Pastoralist Development Organisation, a nonprofit in Uganda, emphasized that no one wants to completely abandon livestock. If there is a lack of rain in this area, you have the option to relocate livestock in search of water, but you are unable to relocate crops. | 1 |
Britain, which is co-hosting the virtual summit before climate talks in Glasgow next year, has been criticized for funding oil and gas projects abroad that contribute to climate change. Prime Minister Johnson stated that taking action now will create jobs, aid in the post-coronavirus recovery, and protect the environment for future generations. Over 70 world leaders, including those from China, India, Canada, and Japan, are expected to announce more ambitious climate goals at the summit. Britain is set to become the first major economy to stop public financing for overseas fossil fuel projects, a move praised by climate policy adviser Louise Burrows. Britain has the authority to encourage other countries to do the same. The UK Export Finance agency has provided guarantees worth billions of dollars to support British oil and gas companies in expanding in various countries. Critics have targeted Prime Minister Johnson for UKEF's involvement in funding Total's liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. The government announced a new policy to stop state support for overseas oil, natural gas, and coal projects. There will be some exceptions for gas-fired power plants within certain guidelines aligned with the Paris agreement. | 1 |
The World Trade Organization (WTO) announced that Pascal Lamy has been reappointed as director-general for a second four-year term. Lamy, a 62-year-old Frenchman, was the sole candidate for the position and was unanimously approved by the WTO General Council. This marks the first time in the organization's 15-year history that the director-general candidacy was uncontested. Lamy's first term was focused on efforts to finalize the WTO's seven-year-old Doha round, aimed at promoting global trade and supporting developing countries through exports. He believes that completing the round is crucial for boosting business confidence and preventing protectionism during the economic crisis. He stated that the Doha round offers more than just trade-offs and market access; it also provides significant systemic value. The main benefit of the Doha round is the certainty, predictability, and stability it will bring to global trade, which becomes even more essential during times of crisis. Lamy emphasized the importance of addressing other issues such as climate change, food security, energy, labor, and financial protectionism within the 153-member state body, but suggested that serious work on these matters should only begin once a Doha deal is within reach. He believed that 80 percent of the Doha agreement was likely to be finalized. Lamy praised the effectiveness of the WTO's dispute settlement system in resolving trade disputes involving large sums of money. However, he emphasized the need for developing countries to receive more assistance in navigating the complex and costly dispute resolution processes, as well as for improved compliance with decisions made by WTO dispute panels. In addition to bringing in ministers to finalize a Doha deal, Lamy suggested that the WTO should hold regular ministerial conferences to establish strategy and assess the organization's functioning. He pointed out that the last ministerial conference had taken place in 2005. WTO regulations mandate an election every two years. Lamy is recognized for successfully restoring French bank Credit Lyonnais, which is now a part of Credit Agricole, to financial stability after it nearly went bankrupt. He assumed the position of director-general of the WTO in September 2005. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama has decided to attend the end of the Copenhagen climate change summit, a change in plans that the White House says is due to increasing momentum towards a new global agreement. Originally, Obama was set to attend the summit in Denmark on December 7-18 before heading to Oslo to receive his Nobel Peace Prize. However, some European officials and environmentalists were surprised by this decision, noting that the most crucial discussions on reducing greenhouse gas emissions would likely happen towards the end of the summit when many other world leaders are also expected to be present. The White House released a statement saying that progress is being made towards a significant agreement in Copenhagen where all nations would commit to combating climate change. Danish officials have confirmed that over 100 world leaders will be in attendance at the conference, which is seen as a key step towards a successor to the 1997 Kyoto Protocol. The White House stated that the president believes it would be more productive for him to participate in the end of the Copenhagen conference on December 18th rather than on December 9th, based on his discussions with other leaders and the progress already made in negotiations. The Obama administration is pleased with recent commitments from China and India to reduce emissions and the consensus on increasing funding to assist developing nations with climate change. Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown both welcomed Obama's decision to attend, seeing it as a positive step towards reaching a comprehensive climate agreement in Copenhagen. The United States plans to pledge a 17 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 compared to 2005 levels at the conference. It was the final major industrialized nation to establish a goal for reducing greenhouse gases as part of a United Nations-led effort to combat the increasing global temperatures that could lead to more extreme weather events and rising sea levels. The Copenhagen meeting is expected to result in a political agreement that includes targets for emissions reductions by wealthy countries by 2020, with the discussion on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol postponed until 2010. President Obama discussed the negotiation progress with several world leaders, and there is a growing consensus that a key aspect of the Copenhagen agreement should involve securing $10 billion annually by 2012 to assist developing nations in addressing climate change. The United States has agreed to pay their fair share of the amount, with other countries also making significant commitments. Environmentalists praised Obama's decision, with some calling for him to adjust his administration's emission reduction targets as well. Greenpeace International's political climate coordinator, Martin Kaiser, stated that Obama's decision to move the meeting date was a response to global pressure, and now he needs to adjust his targets and financial contribution to align with climate science. | 1 |
The business community has urged the government to develop a long-term and achievable policy to enhance the investment climate, as part of their suggestions for establishing a Better Business Forum. FBCCI president Mir Nasir Hossain stated that they have requested the government to finalize this policy within a few months to prevent any changes by future administrations. These recommendations were made in response to the government's draft framework for creating a 'Better Business Forum' to restore business confidence and boost economic growth. The private sector's recommendations were presented to chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed by Nasir, who coordinated representatives from business and industry. The proposed forum is anticipated to include a central body composed of senior advisers, top business leaders, and representatives from government agencies such as the Bangladesh Bank, National Board of Revenue, and government secretaries. The government has taken the initiative to establish this forum in response to a decline in business confidence, which has led to a decrease in both domestic and foreign investment. The decrease in business confidence has also impacted the demand for credit from the banking sector, which is holding over Tk 140 billion in excess liquidity as of July. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Bangladesh decreased by 6 percent to $792 million in 2006, down from $845 million the previous year, primarily due to political instability, volatility, and changes in government, as reported in the World Investment Report 2007. Additionally, local investment proposals have also declined, according to figures from the Board of Investment. The proposed forum will be led by chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed, with finance adviser Mirza Azizul Islam serving as executive chairman. Sub-forums on various topics like ports, export, import, banking, and investment are also expected. Advisers from relevant ministries will lead the committees, while leaders from associations and government officials will be members. The forum will address business community issues and propose solutions and action plans. Businessmen have urged the government to involve private sector representatives and select working groups promptly. He mentioned that we have also suggested making amendments to laws in order to facilitate business operations. | 1 |
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is urging India to collaborate more in the fight against terrorism during his visit to New Delhi. He is advocating for India to join the Financial Action Task Force, an international organization that combats terrorist financing, and to receive advanced equipment to enhance security measures at ports and airports. Brown emphasized the need for major countries like India, China, and Pakistan to work together to eliminate terrorist financing and structures. He also requested a campaign to win over people's hearts and minds in order to fight against "extremist ideologies". Brown came to India after visiting China, where he concentrated on increasing trade, investment, and collaboration on addressing climate change. During his visit to India, he plans to have discussions with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, engage with business leaders, and deliver a speech on Monday about reforming international organizations. Brown brought with him pledges of hundreds of millions of dollars in development assistance to combat poverty in India, a country where despite rapid economic growth, 400 million people live on less than $1 a day. The UK announced that it will provide India with 825 million pounds ($1.6 billion) in development aid over the next three years, with a majority of the funds allocated for improving health and education. The British government announced that the funding would be used to hire 300,000 more teachers and allow four million additional children to attend school by 2011. This demonstrates the increasing economic relationship between Britain and India, as seen in Tata Steel Ltd's purchase of Corus for 6.2 billion pounds and Ford Motor Co's consideration of Tata Motors Ltd to acquire Jaguar and Land Rover. Prime Minister Brown is expected to discuss trade and propose an international early warning system to prevent another financial crisis like the U.S. sub-prime lending shock, which has caused a global credit crunch and the collapse of Northern Rock in Britain. Brown has also called for renewed efforts to reach a global trade agreement. Discussions on a new trade agreement aimed at liberalizing trade have been progressing slowly over the years. (1 pound is equivalent to $1.945). | 1 |
Ukraine is currently investigating around 7,600 possible war crimes and around 500 suspects following Russia's invasion on February 24. Foreign Secretary Liz Truss mentioned that Russia has brought barbarity to Ukraine and committed vile atrocities, particularly against women. Truss stated that British expertise will aid in uncovering the truth and holding Russian President Vladimir Putin's regime accountable for their actions. Truss will be meeting with International Criminal Court President Judge Piotr Hofmanski and Dutch counterpart Wopke Hoekstra in The Hague. A specialized team will be assisting Ukraine in gathering evidence and prosecuting war crimes, including experts in conflict-related sexual violence, as per a statement from the foreign office. Moscow describes its actions as a "special operation" with the goal of weakening Kyiv's military capabilities and safeguarding Russian-speaking residents in the eastern part of the country. | 1 |
Britain, which recently hosted the COP26 UN climate conference and will continue to lead efforts until the 2022 gathering in Egypt, must collaborate with activists and environmentally conscious businesses to adjust plans and maintain pressure on countries that are falling behind, according to experts. This could involve expanding a funding program to help countries like South Africa transition away from coal, as well as increasing political pressure on nations such as Australia, Russia, and Brazil that have been less ambitious in their climate commitments. Current efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius are at a critical stage, with Richard Black of the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit warning that the goal is "hanging by a thread." Black emphasized the need for concrete actions and policies rather than just more pledges, calling for urgent and meaningful steps to address the climate crisis. The recent summit, which concluded on Saturday, made several significant commitments such as increasing financing for climate adaptation, reducing coal power, cutting fossil fuel subsidies, and ending deforestation by 2030. However, despite these pledges, many campaign groups expressed disappointment, stating that it was insufficient to steer the world towards a safe trajectory. Asad Rehman from the COP26 Coalition criticized the lack of consideration for science and justice. Current emissions reduction targets are projected to result in a 2.4C temperature rise, far exceeding the 1.5C limit recommended by experts. David King, a former British chief scientist, also criticized the agreement for not fully acknowledging the severity of the crisis. On the other hand, the government of Bangladesh, representing the Climate Vulnerable Forum, acknowledged the progress made during the talks. After the meeting in Glasgow ended, a statement was issued saying that the world has acknowledged the urgency of the situation and that the hard work must now begin at home. Mark Watts, the executive director of the C40 Cities network, emphasized the need for significant progress in climate action on the ground. He stated that as world leaders leave Glasgow, it is now the responsibility of others to continue the work. The Glasgow Climate Pact calls on countries to submit more ambitious emission reduction plans by the end of 2022 to maintain the 1.5C target. This is a more frequent update than the previous requirement of every five years under the 2015 Paris Agreement. Chris Stark, head of Britain's independent Climate Change Committee, stated that the new demand for faster progress, driven by pressure from climate activists and businesses seeking clearer market signals for green transitions, is causing leaders to feel pressured to take action from both sides. Emma Pinchbeck, chief executive of Energy UK, noted that the Glasgow deal's inclusion of references to phasing out coal and fossil fuel subsidies is a strong signal for businesses. Analysts believe this could lead to shifts in private investment that will have a greater impact on emissions than government climate finance. However, there are concerns that the rules governing carbon markets agreed upon in Glasgow may lead to companies and countries relying too heavily on offsetting emissions rather than reducing them, according to Pinchbeck. She emphasized that the effectiveness of carbon trading systems in reducing global emissions remains to be seen. One significant change observed at the COP26 talks, according to her, is that more leaders have not only recognized the genuine threat of climate change in their own countries, but also understand that there is a broader societal demand for action. Countries now acknowledge the physical and social pressure, as well as pressure from businesses, associated with the threat of climate change. Amber Rudd, a former UK secretary of state for energy and climate change, emphasized the importance of maintaining public pressure for climate action, especially as politicians consider the impact of swift emissions cuts on their chances of re-election. She noted that leaders often prioritize future climate action that falls outside of their current term in office, referred to as NIMTOO (not in my term of office). "Politicians are aware of what needs to be done." She mentioned that they lack knowledge about how to secure re-election once they have accomplished it. This concern could be alleviated by clear public support for climate action. | 1 |
Thailand has decided to move ASEAN's annual meeting from Bangkok to Chiang Mai seven weeks before the event, citing the pleasant climate in December and a desire to showcase another part of the country. However, officials privately acknowledge that the move is actually an attempt to avoid conflict with the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), which has been protesting in Bangkok since August. Some government officials downplay the significance of the venue change, while Thai media speculate that the PAD may target the summit in an attempt to embarrass the elected administration. Government leaders from the 10 Association of South East Asian Nations countries, along with representatives from China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, are attending the meeting. Diplomats in Bangkok are unhappy about the sudden change in venue, as it is difficult to accommodate the influx of officials and media during the peak tourist season. When Laos hosted the meeting four years ago, they restricted entry to foreign visitors to ensure enough space. A diplomat in Bangkok called the situation a major inconvenience. The expenses for this have not been planned for, and it will be difficult to find hotel rooms during this time. We may have to share rooms and sleep on the floor. The Shangri La hotel in Chiang Mai, where the meeting is being held, has reserved the entire hotel from Dec. 11-19, but existing reservations will not be canceled. The original venue for the meeting, the Centara Grand hotel in Bangkok, does not seem to be aware of the change in location. | 1 |
Developing nations showed support for a European Union proposal aimed at combating global warming, but disagreements persisted at UN climate talks, raising concerns that the negotiations could collapse. The EU's plan calls for a new agreement by 2015 that would enforce cuts on major emitters of greenhouse gases, with the agreement taking effect within five years. Despite some progress, EU Climate Commissioner Connie Hedegaard warned that the outcome of the talks in Durban was uncertain, as several countries had not yet committed to the proposed roadmap. "If there is no further progress from what I have observed until 4 o'clock this morning, I believe a deal in Durban is unlikely. This is the current situation we are facing. A preliminary text has been proposed that could obligate over 30 industrialized nations to reduce emissions as part of a new phase of the Kyoto Protocol, the only global agreement that mandates carbon reductions. However, this text would likely only be approved if all major emitters agreed to legal targets in a separate agreement that includes China, India, and the United States. Many climate experts are skeptical of the wording in the second text, as it only mentions a 'legal framework' and falls short of the legally binding treaty requested by the European Union and numerous developing countries." Rene Orellana, chief negotiator for Bolivia and part of the ALBA group of Latin American nations, expressed concern about the lack of a legal regime to control emissions from developed countries. He warned that without such framework, there would be no control over big emitters, leading to potential environmental catastrophe. Orellana emphasized the need for a regime to enforce compliance with emissions reductions, criticizing the proposed texts for being unclear on timelines and depth of reductions. The EU's strategy at the conference is to create a group of countries willing to put pressure on China, the United States, and India to agree to mandatory reductions in carbon emissions, even though these countries are not obligated by the Kyoto Protocol. Washington insists on all major polluters making similar commitments before agreeing to binding cuts, while China and India argue that it would be unfair to expect them to make the same level of cuts as developed countries, which are primarily responsible for global warming. Many delegates believe that the climate talks in Durban will likely result in a weak political agreement, with countries agreeing to begin negotiations on a new system of mandatory cuts in greenhouse gas emissions. They claim that anything less than achieving change would be catastrophic. Recent U.N. reports indicate that time is running out to address the issue, as a warming planet will worsen droughts, floods, crop failures, and sea level rise, endangering several island nations. The Durban talks, expected to conclude on Friday, are likely to continue into the night and possibly into Saturday. Delegates from small islands and African countries expressed frustration at the slow progress of the negotiations, joining a protest by environmental groups outside the main meeting room. Maldives' climate negotiator Mohamed Aslam emphasized the urgency of saving the islands from sinking, asserting the right of the people to live and determining their own destiny. Grenada's foreign minister Karl Hood, who heads the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), expressed frustration with the lack of progress in climate change negotiations, highlighting the focus on peripheral issues rather than addressing the core climate challenges such as adaptation and mitigation. I believe that Durban could ultimately be the one to bring an end to UN climate negotiations. | 1 |
Rushanara Ali, a Labour MP and junior shadow minister, expressed concern that the current British government is not giving enough attention to the issue of climate change. Ali made these remarks during a press conference in Dhaka on Friday while in town to attend a climate change tribunal organized by Oxfam International. The tribunal, coordinated by an NGO alliance called Campaign for Sustainable Rural Livelihoods (CSRL), is set to take place on Monday at the Bangabandhu International Conference Centre. The goal of the 'Shadow Climate Tribunal' is to explore legal ways to protect those impacted by climate change, according to a statement from the organizers. The opposition MP strongly criticized the current UK government for deciding not to increase aid for the next two years. She noted that the government had previously committed to providing aid up to 0.7 percent of gross national income by 2013 and promised to increase aid in the third year. The shadow minister for international development pointed out that the previous Labour government had been more focused on addressing climate change, citing the world's first Climate Change Act with legally binding carbon emission targets. In her role as a member of the shadow cabinet, Ali stated that they would continue to prioritize raising awareness about climate change. "It is crucial that climate change remains a top priority. The Labour Party will persist in backing adaptation programs and strive to ensure that the allocated funds have a significant impact," Ali stated. She expressed her intention to utilize her position to advocate for measures that aid countries like Bangladesh, which bear the brunt of climate change. In response to a question, Ali acknowledged that the global community's efforts were insufficient. She emphasized the importance of developed and affluent nations taking a more active role and urged them to increase their contributions, echoing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's criticism of the international community's lack of seriousness towards addressing climate change. She disagreed with the idea of allowing people affected by climate change to migrate to developed nations, stating that preventive measures should be the priority instead. Rushanara Ali, the first person of Bangladeshi origin to be elected to the House of Commons, was elected as a Member of Parliament for Bethnal Green and Bow in May 2010. | 1 |
Zimbabwean opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai announced on Sunday that he would no longer participate in the run-off election against President Robert Mugabe due to the violence and lack of fairness in the current political climate. Tsvangirai called for international intervention to prevent what he described as "genocide" in Zimbabwe, accusing the government of using intimidation tactics to ensure Mugabe's victory in the upcoming poll. Tsvangirai, a member of the MDC, expressed concern about asking voters to participate in the June 27 election due to the potential danger it could pose to their lives. He mentioned that 86 MDC supporters had been killed and 200,000 displaced from their homes. Mugabe, who has been in power since 1980, has accused the opposition of being puppets of Britain and the United States and denies responsibility for the violence that has occurred. Mugabe's leadership has led to a decline in Zimbabwe's once prosperous economy. Millions of people have left their homes due to the political and economic crisis, seeking refuge in neighboring countries. The MDC reported that thousands of Mugabe loyalists, armed with weapons, disrupted an MDC rally in Harare by attacking journalists and driving election observers away. Despite the police initially banning the rally, the high court in Harare overturned the ban. Tsvangirai, under pressure from the international community, reluctantly agreed to a run-off election after claiming victory in the March vote. The state-run media has refused to air opposition political advertisements and police have obstructed some of their rallies. Tendai Biti, a high-ranking MDC official and close associate of Tsvangirai, is currently being detained on charges of treason and other serious offenses that could result in the death penalty. A magistrate has ruled that he must remain in custody until at least July 7. Despite this, there is mounting pressure on Mugabe's government to halt the violence. Several African leaders are now expressing concerns that the upcoming election may not be fair. Angolan President Jose Eduardo dos Santos, a longtime supporter of Mugabe, recently urged the Zimbabwean leader to ensure that the election is conducted with tolerance and in line with democratic principles. | 1 |
President Barack Obama promised to hold BP Plc accountable for their actions in causing the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and called for a national effort to reduce US reliance on fossil fuels. In a televised address, Obama stated that the government would do everything necessary to address the spill and make BP compensate for the damage. Obama's speech, which focused on the crisis, aimed to restore confidence in his leadership amidst concerns that it could overshadow his efforts to address unemployment and financial reform. The way Obama handles this disaster will impact BP, offshore drilling policies, and climate change legislation in Congress. Obama called on Americans to take advantage of the current opportunity to end their reliance on fossil fuels, but did not provide a detailed plan or timeline for achieving this goal. He expressed support for comprehensive energy legislation that addresses greenhouse gas emissions and believes putting a price on carbon pollution is crucial. However, he did not specifically mention climate change in his speech, likely due to political challenges. Obama is open to suggestions from both Democrats and Republicans to reduce America's dependence on oil, but stated that inaction is not an acceptable approach. Obama's decision to address the nation from the Oval Office highlighted the seriousness of the situation, a tradition followed by past presidents in response to national tragedies. The upcoming congressional election year raises the question of whether Obama can satisfy frustrated voters while his party's control is at stake. Polls indicate that many Americans believe Obama has been insufficiently engaged and firm in his handling of the crisis and BP. In an effort to counter criticism of his leadership, Obama took a tough stance towards BP, though he stopped short of repeating his previous statement about wanting to hold someone accountable. He stated that he would be meeting with the chairman of BP the following day to instruct him to allocate the necessary resources to compensate those who have been affected by the company's negligence. The fund for compensation will be managed independently to ensure that all valid claims are paid out fairly and promptly. Oil company executives acknowledged at a congressional hearing that BP did not follow industry standards in constructing the deep-sea well that caused the massive oil spill on April 20. Despite attempts by other oil companies to distance themselves from BP, Democratic lawmakers criticized industry plans for handling deepwater oil disasters as inadequate. Investors were hoping that Obama would kick-start alternative energy initiatives like solar, wind, and geothermal that are currently stalled in Congress. Prior to his speech, shares in US solar companies increased. During his first televised address from the Oval Office, Obama aimed to demonstrate his control over the oil spill crisis that has challenged his presidency and overshadowed his efforts to address US unemployment and Wall Street reform. Recent public opinion polls suggest that many Americans believe Obama has not been sufficiently engaged in handling the spill, prompting him to face significant pressure to exhibit stronger leadership. Furthermore, a team of US scientists recently raised their estimate of the amount of crude oil flowing from the well by 50 percent, emphasizing the need for immediate action. | 1 |
Antonio Guterres, the UN secretary general, warned that a combination of factors including the war in Ukraine, the COVID-19 crisis, and climate change is creating a dire situation for many developing countries. The UN's official report highlighted the devastating impact of the war in Ukraine on the global economy, with up to 1.7 billion people, including many already living in poverty, facing disruptions in food, energy, and finance. Rising energy prices, inflation, and stalled development are putting countries at risk of defaulting on their debts, particularly those already struggling to provide their populations with basic needs. The report emphasized the challenges faced by countries with limited resources and high debt burdens in coping with the current financial conditions. The report indicated that 107 countries are significantly impacted by at least one of the three crisis dimensions, with 69 countries severely affected by all three. Ukraine and Russia are major wheat and barley suppliers, accounting for approximately 30% of the world's production. The ongoing war has led to record high commodity prices, with food prices up 34% compared to last year and crude oil prices rising by around 60%. Developing countries are especially vulnerable to these price fluctuations, which could result in social unrest. The report suggests that quick action, political determination, and available resources could help mitigate the impact. Recommendations include not stockpiling food supplies, supporting small farmers, maintaining stable freight costs, and removing export restrictions. Governments are urged to release strategic fuel reserves to the global market and decrease the use of wheat for fuel. Text = Copyright The New York Times Company. | 1 |
However, if theatre owners and operators were interested in showcasing more work by Black artists in light of the current focus on racial injustice, there are numerous plays and musicals with Black writers that could potentially make their way to Broadway. These shows have already been written, had successful productions elsewhere, and have backing from either commercial producers or non-profit presenters. Yet, bringing these shows to Broadway would require making space for producers and artists who may not have as much experience in the commercial theatre world as the industry veterans who typically dominate Broadway. Playwright Lynn Nottage, who has faced challenges in getting her work to Broadway in the past, is hopeful that the theatre scene will be more diverse and inclusive when it reopens. She believes that returning to a theatre environment that reflects the world she wants to live in, rather than the current reality, would be very exciting. It is worth noting that three major organizations control three-quarters of Broadway theatres: Shubert, Nederlander, and Jujamcyn. In order to put on a Broadway show, producers typically need to rent a theatre and agree to share box office earnings with one of the landlords. In recent years, availability has been scarce due to the success of Broadway, but industry experts predict a change next year due to the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic. The Shuberts, who own the most theatres, plan to come back with a variety of shows, including ones by Black writers, directors, and with Black subject matter. Some of the shows looking for theatres when Broadway reopens next spring include a revival of Ntozake Shange’s “For Coloured Girls Who Have Considered Suicide / When the Rainbow Is Enuf,” a revival of Charles Randolph-Wright’s “Blue,” and a new play by Keenan Scott II called “Thoughts of a Coloured Man.” Stephanie Ybarra, the artistic director of Baltimore Centre Stage, believes that “Thoughts of a Coloured Man” would do very well on Broadway. Several musicals are in a promising position, including "A Strange Loop" by Michael R Jackson, which recently won the Pulitzer Prize for drama. Despite not heading directly to Broadway, the show is set to have a non-profit run next summer at Woolly Mammoth in Washington before attempting a Broadway run. Additionally, two other musicals with Black writers, "Born for This" and "Paradise Square," are hoping for theatre productions next spring. "Born for This" has had productions in several cities and is being produced by Ron Gillyard, a music executive. "Paradise Square," which had a production at Berkeley Repertory Theatre, has Marcus Gardley as one of its book writers and is led by Canadian producer Garth Drabinsky, who is trying to make a comeback after serving time in prison for fraud. Gillyard, along with theatre industry veteran Jenny Gersten, is seeking to navigate Broadway with a fresh perspective. Nonprofit theatres have plays by Black writers planned for the upcoming season, including Roundabout Theatre Company's production of "Trouble in Mind" by Alice Childress, a play exploring racism in theatre. Todd Haimes, the Roundabout artistic director, expressed a commitment to showcasing lesser-known classics by artists of color. He expressed that the play is remarkable and not a completely unknown masterpiece, but rather a partially discovered one that was overlooked due to fear. Second Stage Theatre is planning to produce a new comedic play by Nottage in the fall of 2021, which had a previous run at the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis under the title "Floyd's." However, Nottage intends to rename it to avoid any association with George Floyd. A more diverse representation on Broadway is crucial for theatre artists as it offers better salaries and opportunities, ultimately enhancing their careers and expanding the reach of their work. Playwright Jocelyn Bioh, known for "School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play," is currently working on a new Afrobeat musical called "Goddess," which is based on a Kenyan myth and has plans for an initial production at Berkeley Rep. The goal is to eventually bring it to Broadway with the support of commercial producer Christine Schwarzman. Bioh acknowledges the diversity issue on Broadway and believes that raising awareness and nurturing fearless producers is key to addressing it. There are also three jukebox musicals by Black writers expected next year, including "Ain't Too Proud" by Dominique Morisseau and "Tina" by Katori Hall, both of which were put on hold due to the pandemic after opening in 2019. The upcoming production is centered around Michael Jackson, known as "MJ," with a book by Nottage and is set to debut in April. While musicals often rely on popular song catalogues for success, plays in today's Broadway industry are often dependent on star power for casting. For instance, Producer Robyn Goodman is attempting to bring Cheryl L West's "Jar the Floor," a play about four generations of Black women, to Broadway but is facing challenges finding well-known actors available for the production. Another play, "Blue," by Charles Randolph-Wright, focusing on a successful family of funeral home operators, is being produced by Brian Moreland, who also has "Thoughts of a Coloured Man" in the works. Moreland initially tried to secure a Broadway theatre for "Blue," directed by Phylicia Rashad, co-produced by John Legend, and starring Leslie Uggams and Lynn Whitfield, but had to settle for the Apollo Theatre in Harlem due to scheduling conflicts and the pandemic. There is ongoing discussion about reconsidering the classification of the Apollo Theatre as a Broadway venue. He is feeling optimistic again as he senses a change in the atmosphere. He expressed his willingness to take over a Broadway theater if given the opportunity. Ron Simons, the main producer of "For Coloured Girls," has joined forces with veteran Broadway producer Nelle Nugent in the hopes that her expertise will assist in securing a theater for the show. The production, which originally debuted on Broadway in 1976, was brought back to the stage at the Public Theatre last year. Camille A. Brown, the choreographer, will now be directing the show on Broadway, taking over from Leah C Gardiner who directed the production downtown. There are a number of shows by Black writers in development at nonprofit theaters that producers are hoping will make it to Broadway, including "Pass Over" by Antoinette Nwandu, "Toni Stone" by Lydia Diamond, and "Gun & Powder" by Angelica Chéri and Ross Baum. Additionally, there is "Dreaming Zenzile" about Miriam Makeba being developed by Somi Kakoma with Mara Isaacs, and a musical adaptation of "Hidden Figures" by Disney Theatrical Productions. Scott Rudin is also working on reviving August Wilson's "The Piano Lesson" and considering a commercial production of "The Black Clown" by Davóne Tines and Michael Schachter. Some of the newcomers to Broadway have experience in other areas of the entertainment industry. For example, film producer Lauren Shuler Donner is working on a stage adaptation of "The Secret Life of Bees," while film and television producer Lee Daniels plans to bring "Ain't No Mo'" to Broadway. Daniels faced resistance when discussing the show with Broadway producers due to its no-holds-barred comic fantasia theme. Despite this, he remains hopeful that the show will make it to Broadway after the pandemic. "It is the heart of New York City," he stated, "and we should be located in the center of New York City." c.2020 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
She mentioned that all polls conducted at various levels during her five years in power were fair and impartial, and she assured that the upcoming poll would continue this trend. The Prime Minister made these comments during a visit to the office of the Senior Minister of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office of the United Kingdom, Sayeeda Warsi. After the meeting, the PM's Press Secretary briefed the press, stating that the two leaders discussed matters of mutual interest. Sheikh Hasina expressed satisfaction with the historical ties and partnership between Bangladesh and the UK, and she hoped that this relationship would strengthen over time. She also remembered the support received from the British people and the government during the 1971 War of Liberation. Additionally, a delegation led by China's Policy Advisor for Asian Affairs met with the Prime Minister, during which she reiterated Bangladesh's stance on the One China Policy and sought increased Chinese investment in various sectors. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional connectivity for boosting trade and commerce between the two nations, as well as the need to reduce the trade deficit. Various officials including Ambassador-At-Large M Ziauddin, Principal Secretary Shaikh Md Wahid-Uz-Zaman, and PMO secretary Mollah Waheeduzzaman were present at the meeting. Later in the day, Warsi also met with Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury. | 1 |
In the results of Iraq's March 7 vote, former Prime Minister Iyad Allawi surpassed Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki, setting the stage for prolonged political negotiations and potentially creating a dangerous power vacuum. The latest results, which overturned Maliki's previous lead, were announced amidst twin bomb attacks in Mussayab that left eight people dead. The attacks highlighted Iraq's vulnerability as it faces the prospect of significant political changes and the withdrawal of US troops. These incidents, coupled with recent violence in Anbar province, cast doubt on the country's fragile security as politicians engage in lengthy and divisive discussions to form a new government. Allawi's slight lead in the national vote count over Maliki's State of Law bloc underscores Iraq's deep divisions following years of sectarian conflict. Allawi, a secular Shi'ite leader whose Iraqiya list is currently leading in five provinces, has garnered support from Sunni minorities seeking to regain the power they lost after Saddam Hussein's regime ended in 2003. With approximately 80 percent of votes counted, there is only a slim margin separating Maliki's coalition from Allawi's. Final results may not be determined for weeks, but one of the two blocs is likely to form an alliance with either the largely Shi'ite Iraqi National Alliance or the Kurdish parties in the north. While Maliki is known for stabilizing Iraq after civil war threats, Allawi's supporters, who view him as a critic of the dominant religious parties, are feeling confident. Thaer al-Naqeeb, a close associate of Allawi, expressed confidence that final election results would show Allawi leading Maliki, despite Maliki currently leading in Baghdad. Joost Hiltermann, an analyst with the International Crisis Group, warned that the post-election period, already marred by fraud allegations, may see the loser attempting to challenge the winner even after the final tally. How Iraq establishes a government that is acceptable to rival factions like Maliki and Allawi, as well as other factions in the country, will be crucial for maintaining security as the US plans to withdraw by the end of 2011. The alliance of the two main Kurdish parties is leading in three provinces in northern Iraq, but is closely behind Allawi's bloc in Kirkuk, a province at the center of Arab-Kurd tensions. Allawi currently has a slight lead over the Kurdish bloc in Kirkuk. According to Iraq expert Toby Dodge, Iran's influence could play a significant role in forming a government alliance between Maliki, the INA, and the Kurds. He stated that to a certain degree, this would resemble the coalition that governed Iraq poorly from 2006 to 2010. The Iranian government, keen on having a Shi'ite representative in charge of Iraq, commended the elections. The Foreign Ministry spokesman, Ramin Mehmanparast, congratulated Iraqis on the success of the elections, noting that all international monitoring had verified their validity. | 1 |
Britain and France promised to address financial market issues on Thursday and urged banks to be transparent about the impact of the credit crunch on their operations. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown described his relationship with President Nicolas Sarkozy as a strong alliance during Sarkozy's two-day visit to Britain. Both leaders agreed to work towards expanding the U.N. Security Council to include permanent seats for Germany, Brazil, India, Japan, and representation for Africa. The atmosphere between the two leaders was notably positive, in contrast to past tensions in Anglo-French relations. The leaders exchanged compliments during a press conference held at Arsenal's stadium in north London. The team is overseen by Arsene Wenger, a Frenchman, and includes several players who speak French in its roster. Sarkozy, feeling emotional, praised the warm reception given to his new wife, Carla Bruni, who is a model-turned-singer and whom he recently married after a whirlwind romance that affected his popularity in the polls. World leaders are working to ease concerns about a potential global economic downturn caused by a credit crunch resulting from a U.S. housing loan crisis. However, wealthy nations have not yet reached an agreement on a unified plan of action. Brown and Sarkozy stated that they agreed on the importance of increased transparency in financial markets to ensure that banks disclose the full extent of write-offs in a timely manner. Banks have recorded losses of more than $125 billion in assets as a result of the credit squeeze. Some estimates suggest that bad debts on banks' balance sheets could be as high as $600 billion. To boost confidence among commercial banks hesitant to lend to each other, central banks have injected cash into the financial system. The two leaders called for further discussions with the United States and other countries to address the crisis. In a speech in London's financial district, Sarkozy expressed concern that the euro was too strong compared to the U.S., Japanese, and Chinese currencies, which he felt did not accurately reflect the strength of their economies. He has frequently expressed his dissatisfaction with the euro's increasing value, which reached a peak above $1.59 last week, as it negatively impacts French exporters. Sarkozy also expressed worry over the high prices of oil and other goods. Although Britain and France hold permanent seats on the U.N. Security Council, attempts to expand its membership have been stalled. Brown and Sarkozy proposed the idea of granting some countries longer, renewable terms on the council, potentially leading to permanent seats. Sarkozy is aiming to strengthen ties with Britain in addition to the longstanding Franco-German partnership that has historically steered the European Union. Analysts suggest that the reason for this may be his strained relationship with German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Britain has faced criticism in Brussels for not fully integrating into the European Union and abstaining from adopting the common currency, with Brown often being a target of such criticism. However, he showed solidarity with Sarkozy during a joint press conference. Brown emphasized the importance of Britain and France being at the center of a reformed, open, and globally engaged Europe. The two leaders agreed to take action on various issues, including enhancing trade between wealthy and impoverished nations, cracking down on illegal immigration, addressing climate change, and facilitating dialogue between China and Tibet to resolve the ongoing crisis. | 1 |
The Dalai Lama stated that US President Barack Obama is not lenient towards China and expressed his hope that Obama would bring up the topic of Tibet with the Indian prime minister during their meeting in Washington. In an interview with NDTV news channel, the Dalai Lama mentioned that Obama has a different approach towards China, rather than being soft on them. Obama had urged for discussions between the Dalai Lama's representatives and China to find a resolution to the crisis in Tibet during his recent visit to Beijing. The Tibetan government-in-exile indicated their willingness to engage in talks with China following Obama's remarks. Despite having held eight rounds of discussions, little progress has been made between Chinese officials and envoys of the Dalai Lama. The Dalai Lama, who left Tibet for India in 1959 following a failed rebellion against Chinese rule, expressed no regrets about not being able to meet with Obama during his U.S. visit in October. Despite being labeled a "splittist" by Beijing, the Dalai Lama insists he is only advocating for autonomy for Tibet, where there were violent riots and demonstrations against Chinese occupation last year. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is visiting the U.S. this week to address regional concerns, climate change, and a nuclear agreement. | 1 |
During a severe drought in the United States, a government agency announced on Wednesday that a heat record from July, which had been in place since the Dust Bowl summer of 1936, had been broken. Midwest farmers, who had suffered crop damage in July, received some relief with rain forecasted for the next 10 days, potentially alleviating rising grain prices and global food inflation concerns. July was confirmed as the hottest month ever recorded in the continental United States, surpassing the previous record set in July 1936, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The period from January to July was also the warmest since 1895, when modern record-keeping began, and the warmest 12-month period, breaking the previous record set just a month ago. This marks the fourth consecutive month that U.S. temperatures have broken the record for the hottest 12-month period, as reported by NOAA. Analysts predict that the current drought, which is the most severe since 1956, will result in the smallest corn crop in six years. This has caused prices to reach record highs due to tight supplies. Despite large plantings, this would mark the third consecutive year of declining corn production. The drought and high temperatures in July exacerbated each other, as explained by scientist Jake Crouch from NOAA's National Climatic Data Center. Crouch stated that the hotter and drier conditions in the summer lead to increased daytime temperatures. While weather forecasts indicate some relief with rains and cooler temperatures in the drought-affected US Midwest crop belt, it may come too late to benefit the severely damaged corn crop. Soybeans planted later in the season may benefit from the changing weather conditions. Meteorologist Jason Nicholls from AccuWeather stated that while the upcoming weather conditions are an improvement from previous ones, he is hesitant to label it as a drought-ending event. He mentioned that the long-term forecast still indicates warm and dry conditions. Nicholls predicted that the Midwest will receive between 0.25 to 0.75 inches of rain, with some areas experiencing heavier amounts, over the next few days. He also mentioned that a similar weather system is expected the following week. Nicholls noted that there may be slightly less rain in southeast Iowa, but increased rainfall in Missouri. Drew Lerner, a meteorologist for World Weather Inc., mentioned that there will be some rain in the northwest for the weekend. In the Midwest, temperatures in the 80s are expected for the next few days, which is a relief compared to the high temperatures that have been negatively impacting corn and soybean production. The crops are essential for livestock feed, so the high grain prices will likely lead to an increase in consumer prices for dairy, meat, and poultry products. As a result, many producers are reducing the size of their herds to cut costs and prevent significant losses. Additionally, corn and soybeans are used in a variety of products, such as biofuels, starch, edible oils, and lubricants. US corn prices have increased by over 50% in the last two months, reaching a record high on July 20th. Soybeans, which were planted after corn, also went up by more than 20% during the same period and hit a record high on the same day. Prices for harvest-time delivery dropped by about 7% due to light rains in parts of the Midwest in the last two weeks, which analysts believe could benefit the crops as they are filling pods. The rains were considered to be too late for the corn crop, which has already passed the pollination stage where final yields are determined. Grain prices at the Chicago Board of Trade initially decreased on Wednesday but then rebounded. The government is set to release its initial assessment of the autumn harvest this Friday. Projections for corn yields have already been reduced by 12 percent due to the hot and dry conditions in the Farm Belt. The drought has now become a factor in election year politics, with President Obama urging Congress to pass a farm bill that will provide disaster relief to farmers and ranchers. The administration is committed to lessening the effects of the drought in any way possible. Obama called the current drought a significant event that is affecting farmers and ranchers in multiple states. He emphasized the importance of Congress passing a new five-year farm bill before the upcoming election. Despite the House of Representatives' failure to pass a farm bill, Republican leaders proposed a $383 million disaster package for livestock producers. Obama expressed hope that lawmakers would hear from their constituents during the summer recess and reconvene on September 10 to promptly finalize the farm bill. | 1 |
The UN's top climate official stated that despite global financial turmoil, the push for a new world climate deal should not be hindered as high energy prices continue to drive incentives for improving energy efficiency. There are concerns that the current financial crisis may limit investments in reducing greenhouse gas emissions during UN-led discussions for a new international agreement on combating global warming. Yvo de Boer, head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized that the impact of the credit crisis on the global economy does not surpass the influence of current oil prices. However, he acknowledged that the uncertainty and lack of trust in financial markets are challenges for developing green energy projects, despite the high cost of oil. He also noted that the lack of capital does not appear to be the main issue at the moment. Investment uncertainty is causing anxiety, and clear government policies on climate change could help alleviate some of this uncertainty. For example, if a company is planning to build a 500 million euro power plant but is unsure about the government's stance on greenhouse gas emissions cuts, it makes the decision very risky. Despite some analysts' doubts, de Boer is hopeful that the United States will participate in a new global warming agreement to be discussed in Copenhagen in December 2009, replacing the Kyoto Protocol. De Boer visited Poland to assess preparations for the upcoming climate talks. De Boer stated that the reasons why Washington did not support the Kyoto Protocol in 1997, such as concerns about damaging the U.S. economy and the lack of targets for developing countries, are still relevant today. The Kyoto Protocol requires 37 industrialized countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2008-12, with no targets set for developing countries. To encourage the United States, which is now second to China in greenhouse gas emissions, the United Nations must involve developing countries. De Boer suggested this could be achieved by ensuring their economic growth is protected and keeping climate policy costs reasonable. One method of attracting developing nations is through the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), where an industrialized country can increase its emission allowance by investing in clean energy technology in a developing country. There is ongoing debate within U.N. talks about whether the CDM should include coal power plants with carbon capture and storage capabilities. De Boer believes that carbon capture and storage would be essential for coal-based economies like China and India. He also mentioned that there are safe methods of storing CO2 underground, such as in empty gas fields. De Boer expressed hope that the upcoming U.N. talks in Poznan could lead to a new agreement in Copenhagen to replace the Kyoto Protocol, despite doubts from many. | 1 |
During a meeting with the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh, Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali, at his office in The Hague on Wednesday, Timmermans mentioned that King Willem-Alexander himself showed a strong interest in Bangladesh's flood-control efforts and climate change adaptation. Timmermans expressed his government's ongoing commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh to address the challenges posed by climate change. He highlighted the close bilateral ties between Bangladesh and the Netherlands. Mahmood Ali praised Dutch development cooperation projects focused on water management, agricultural productivity, and income generation in remote char areas. He also thanked the Dutch government for its support of the 'Better Work Programme' by the ILO, which aims to improve working conditions in Bangladesh's ready-made garments sector. The ministers discussed various issues and agreed to explore the possibility of establishing regular bilateral foreign office consultations. Mahmood Ali thanked the Netherlands for providing training to young Bangladeshi diplomats and requested an extension of the program for another five years. They also discussed extending reciprocal facilities and services to each other's missions in their respective capitals. Mahmood Ali invited the Netherlands King to visit Bangladesh at a convenient time and Timmermans accepted the invitation. The Bangladesh ambassador to the Netherlands, Sheikh Mohammed Belal, was also present during the meeting. | 1 |
World leaders are attempting to save a global climate agreement in Copenhagen, but the lack of new proposals from major greenhouse gas emitters China and the United States is hindering progress. US President Barack Obama and other leaders are working towards agreements on carbon emissions cuts, financial assistance for developing nations, temperature limits, and monitoring of emissions reductions. While there has been some progress in certain areas, disagreements remain regarding emissions targets and monitoring. Obama emphasized the need for action rather than just talk, as international discussions on climate change have been ongoing for nearly two decades with little to show for it except for an escalation of the climate crisis. It is no longer time for discussion. What is at risk is a global agreement to prevent climate change, which could lead to increased flooding and droughts. The recent two-week talks in Copenhagen have been marked by distrust between wealthy and developing nations regarding how to distribute emissions reductions. Developing countries, particularly those most affected by climate change, argue that wealthy nations have a moral obligation to take the lead. According to Andreas Carlgren, the environment minister of the EU presidency, the United States and China are crucial in reaching a deal. He mentioned that the United States had made late commitments to address climate change. China's reluctance to be monitored was seen as a major hindrance. Carlgren stated that the main sufferers of this situation were the developing countries. The European Union had hoped to support these countries, but the influence of the major powers made this difficult. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton arrived in Copenhagen promising that the United States would assist in raising $100 billion annually to aid developing countries in dealing with climate change, as long as a deal was reached. However, President Obama did not make any new commitments and remained focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 17 percent by 2020 compared to 2005 levels, which equates to 3-4 percent compared to 1990 levels, significantly lower than the EU's goal of 20 percent. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao also reaffirmed existing targets, but hinted that China may surpass them as the world's leading carbon emitter. "We will uphold our promise with concrete actions," Wen stated. "No matter what results come from this conference, we are determined to meet and surpass the goal." Following this, Obama and Wen held a meeting for almost an hour, which a White House representative called a positive development. The official informed the press that they had a productive conversation covering all important topics, and have instructed their negotiators to collaborate with other nations to seek a possible agreement on a bilateral level. Sweden's Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt called on China and the United States, who are responsible for 40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, to take action. He emphasized that these two countries must fulfill their responsibilities in order to meet the 2 degree target. A British official expressed pessimism about the prospects for a deal after Obama's speech. Several important countries are resisting the complete package and time is quickly running out. Negotiators were unable to reach an agreement on carbon cuts during overnight talks. Obama and other leaders were also unsuccessful in making a breakthrough during Friday morning talks. French President Nicolas Sarkozy mentioned that Chinese opposition to monitoring emissions was a major issue. Despite ongoing negotiations, a final decision has not been reached yet. A preliminary document obtained by Reuters outlined a target of $100 billion annually by 2020 to assist developing countries in dealing with the effects of climate change. It also proposed providing $30 billion to the least developed countries between 2010-2012 and suggested that the global community should aim to limit warming to 2 degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels. Scientists believe that a 2 degree limit is crucial in order to prevent some of the most severe consequences of climate change such as significant sea level rise, species extinction, and crop failures. The objective of the Copenhagen talks, which will last for two weeks, is to reach an agreement on climate action that can be transformed into a legally binding treaty next year to replace the Kyoto Protocol, whose current phase concludes in 2012. The United States never ratified the Kyoto Protocol, and it does not impose obligations on developing countries. The draft text for Friday includes plans for ongoing negotiations to establish one or more new legal treaties by the end of 2010. | 1 |
In his initial address to the nation as prime minister, Khan outlined his vision for a "New Pakistan" and emphasized the importance of implementing an Islamic welfare system, reducing poverty, and addressing the country's high debt levels. Khan criticized the nation's reliance on loans and aid from other countries, stating that a country must be self-sufficient in order to prosper. Khan, a former cricket star, was inaugurated as prime minister on Saturday following his party's victory in last month's election. Known for his anti-corruption efforts, Khan's popularity has grown in recent years, particularly among young voters and the middle class in Pakistan. Despite his popularity, Khan faces various challenges at home and abroad, including a currency crisis and strained relations with the United States. Khan did not provide any details on how he plans to address Pakistan's currency issues, which analysts believe will necessitate another IMF bailout. Instead, Khan emphasized the importance of reducing debt and appointed former central bank governor Ishrat Husain to oversee austerity measures. Khan criticized the extravagant lifestyles of Pakistan's ruling class and announced his intention to live in a modest three-bedroom house instead of the luxurious prime minister's residence. He plans to have only two servants, as opposed to the 524 typically assigned to a sitting premier, and intends to sell a fleet of bullet-proof vehicles to alleviate Treasury deficits, a risky decision in a country still facing threats from Islamist militants. Khan stated his intention to lead a modest life and save money for his people. He encouraged overseas Pakistanis to invest in the country and urged the wealthy to start paying taxes, a common issue in a nation known for tax evasion. Khan emphasized the importance of paying taxes for the country's development and addressing challenges such as climate change, high maternal and infant mortality rates, and the large number of out-of-school children in Pakistan. Khan, who lacks experience in government, recently announced his 21-member cabinet, mostly composed of seasoned politicians. Critics have raised concerns about the selection, noting that many in the cabinet had ties to former military dictator Pervez Musharraf. Khan himself revealed plans to oversee the interior ministry and expressed his desire to create a welfare state in Pakistan inspired by Western models and the teachings of Prophet Mohammad in Medina. He emphasized his intention to prioritize spending on those in need. | 1 |
Upon her arrival in Myanmar, Prime Minister Hasina was warmly welcomed by Labour Minister Aye Myint and Bangladesh ambassador to Naypyidaw Anup Kumar Chakma at 10.15am local time on Monday. She was greeted with a red carpet reception at the airport and escorted to the Royal Naypyidaw Hotel in a motorcade, where she and her entourage will be staying during their two-day tour. Myanmar children in traditional attire lined the road, waving flags of both nations as her motorcade passed by. The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with the Prime Ministers of India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bhutan on the sidelines of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit. BIMSTEC is a regional grouping of seven members from South Asia and South East Asia aimed at promoting economic cooperation and development in various sectors. Bangladesh is a key player in trade, investment, and climate change within the group. During her visit, Hasina will meet with Myanmar President Thein Sein, visit the country's parliament, and have a meeting with Speaker Thura Shwe Mann. She is also scheduled to meet with Nobel laureate Aung Sang Suu Kyi and attend a dinner hosted by the Myanmar President. The following day, she will participate in the BIMSTEC summit inauguration and a joint press briefing. This summit, which is two years behind schedule, will bring together leaders from the member countries to discuss common concerns and development priorities. The most recent summit was held in 2008 in New Delhi, with the first summit taking place in 2004 in Bangkok. Three agreements are set to be signed during the summit, including a memorandum of association for a climate change center in India and a memorandum of understanding for a Cultural Industries Observatory in Bhutan. Additionally, a memorandum of association will be signed to establish a permanent secretariat in Bangladesh, which was approved over two years ago. Dhaka has already allocated a location in Gulshan for the Secretariat. Tensions over the Rohingya issue have strained relations between Bangladesh and Myanmar, with bilateral trade amounting to only $100 million. Bangladesh has provided refuge to numerous Rohingya Muslim refugees who fled Myanmar due to sectarian violence. It is estimated that there are hundreds of thousands of unregistered Rohingyas in Bangladesh. Officials stated that the Prime Minister will return to Dhaka on March 4. (File Photo) | 1 |
Ambassador Tran Van Khoa, during a visit to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on Thursday, expressed contentment over the extension of the memorandum of understanding on rice trade between Bangladesh and Vietnam. The ambassador also mentioned that the first shipment of rice from Vietnam is expected to arrive in Chittagong within the next 15 days. Following the meeting, the prime minister's Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed journalists on the discussions. During the meeting, Prime Minister Hasina emphasized the importance of storing additional food reserves to handle any unforeseen circumstances. She also highlighted Vietnam's impressive progress in socio-economic development post-war. Hasina stated that Vietnam serves as a model for them and they look up to it, citing the struggle for independence as a common experience. She highlighted the importance of enhancing connectivity and economic collaboration between Bangladesh and Southeast Asian countries. Hasina also mentioned the potential for sharing experiences in areas such as trade and culture between Bangladesh and Vietnam. During a meeting with the new Vietnam Ambassador to Bangladesh, Tran Van Khoa, at her office in the parliament, Hasina emphasized the need for cooperation to eradicate poverty, which she referred to as a shared challenge for developing nations. The Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, held a meeting with the new Vietnam Ambassador, Tran Van Khoa, at her office in the parliament. She expressed optimism about achieving success through collaboration. The Vietnamese ambassador commended Bangladesh's efforts in fighting terrorism and addressing climate change, mentioning that both countries have much to learn from each other. He also praised Bangladesh's 7.24 percent GDP growth in the previous fiscal year and conveyed best wishes from the Vietnamese Prime Minister to Sheikh Hasina. He also gave Hasina a book about the life of Ho Chi Minh, a Vietnamese communist revolutionary leader, which contained memories of the War of Liberation. Khoa mentioned that both countries had acknowledged their respective Wars of Liberation and stressed the importance of high-level delegation visits. The new envoy stated that his main goal would be to enhance the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Vietnam and to continue cooperation in various sectors. The event was attended by PM's Principal Secretary Dr Kamal Abdul Naser Chowdhury and Senior PMO Secretary Suraiya Begum. Bangladesh plans to import 250,000 tonnes of rice from Vietnam to replenish crops lost due to unseasonal downpours in April. According to official reports, the damaged crops would have produced approximately 600,000 tons of rice. Unofficial reports suggest the number could be as high as 2.2 million tons of rice. In response, the government has reduced import taxes and issued new bids to lower domestic prices. | 1 |
The event, which included a joint fly-past of fighter jets from two countries as a symbol of military cooperation in the Middle East and other regions, followed a day of discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron, a tour of Paris for the first ladies, and a dinner for the four at a restaurant in the Eiffel Tower. Trump tweeted about the great evening and the strong relationship with France. Macron's visit was seen as a way to enhance France's global reputation, and potentially help the US leader who has faced criticism for his views on free trade and climate change. Trump, who is also facing an investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 US election, hinted at the possibility of further discussions on the Paris accord, from which he withdrew the United States earlier this year. Macron arrived in a military jeep surrounded by cavalry, reenacting a scene from his inauguration and emphasizing his country's military strength. The parade also brought attention to a recent dispute between Macron and General Pierre de Villers over defense budget cuts. During the event, Trump and Macron sat together, applauding and pointing as military aircraft flew overhead. Trump saluted as military personnel, some wearing World War One uniforms, marched past with the Arc de Triomphe in the background. This year's Bastille Day holds special significance for France, as it marks the first anniversary of one of the most deadly Islamist militant attacks in recent years. Following the parade, President Macron will travel to Nice to participate in a ceremony honoring the 86 individuals who lost their lives in a tragic event where a Tunisian man drove a truck into a crowd on the waterfront one year ago. | 1 |
The annual World Day to Combat Desertification by the United Nations will be celebrated as 'World Desertification Day' this Sunday. The theme, "desertification and climate change—one global challenge," aims to draw global attention to the dangers of desertification and the importance of prevention. Experts have warned that nearly a fifth of the world's population is directly or indirectly threatened by desertification. Countries such as China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Central Asia, the Middle East, parts of Africa, and areas in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile are at the forefront of this crisis. In Bangladesh, some non-governmental organizations are planning to observe the day, as government initiatives for combating desertification have been lacking. Abu Sumon, the director of the Wetland and Coastal Biodiversity Project within the Department of Environment, emphasized the alarming impact of global warming this year. He also highlighted desertification as a side-effect of global warming, noting the discovery of plants thriving in harsh environments as evidence of desertification in the northern region of the country. Sumon pointed out that the Barindra land has the hardest soil in the country and mentioned the decreasing underground water level as a recent phenomenon directly linked to the issue. The United Nations has issued a warning that global warming is contributing to the expansion of arid land, potentially displacing millions of people in the future. The UN's leading authority on global warming stated in April that rising global temperatures could have severe impacts on rainfall patterns, snowmelt runoff, and river flows in numerous countries already facing water scarcity. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) estimated that between 80 and 200 million more people could face food insecurity by 2080. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) reported that 70 percent of the world's agricultural drylands, totaling 5.2 billion hectares, are currently degraded and under threat of desertification. These vulnerable lands are increasingly at risk of overgrazing, deforestation, and other forms of exploitation, exacerbated by the effects of climate change. The UN body stated that desertification is growing rapidly, with significant environmental and social impacts, but it has not been given the appropriate amount of attention at national, regional, and international levels. | 1 |
Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has announced that the Senate will not consider any nominee to replace Justice Antonin Scalia until after the next president is inaugurated in January. McConnell, a long-standing opponent of President Obama, stated that he will not even meet with the nominee chosen by Obama. According to the US Constitution, the Senate has the authority to approve or reject the president's Supreme Court pick. Republicans are hoping to delay the nomination process in order to allow the next president to fill Scalia's seat, with the upcoming election on Nov 8 being a key factor in their decision. McConnell stated that the nomination will depend on the winner of the presidential election in the fall. He also mentioned that Senate Republicans overwhelmingly believe that the current president should not fill the vacancy. If Obama's nominee is approved, it could shift the court to the left for the first time in many years. Scalia's death has left the court evenly split between liberals and conservatives. This situation has not been seen since the controversial nominations of Robert Bork in 1987 and Clarence Thomas in 1991. There has been a lot of tension over the Supreme Court vacancy, but Obama has not yet revealed his choice. The White House and Senate Democrats criticized McConnell's position, with Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid calling it extreme obstructionism. McConnell and other congressional Republicans have consistently opposed various Obama initiatives, such as the healthcare law, Iran nuclear deal, immigration policy, and climate change efforts. McConnell cited a previous statement by Joe Biden to support the Supreme Court's decision not to act. McConnell pointed out that Biden, while serving as Senate Judiciary Committee chairman in 1992, recommended delaying action on Supreme Court nominees during an election year. Biden later clarified that he was speaking in a hypothetical scenario since there was no Supreme Court vacancy at the time. McConnell's decision to not hold confirmation hearings came after Chairman Chuck Grassley and other Republican members of the Judiciary Committee wrote a letter to him expressing their stance. Grassley had previously considered the possibility of holding hearings. Republican senators emphasized to McConnell in the letter the importance of allowing the American people to have a thorough debate on the type of judge they want to address crucial issues, especially with the upcoming presidential election on Nov 8. If the Senate delays considering a nominee until after a new president is in office, it is unlikely that the Supreme Court will have its full nine justices until early 2017. This would leave the court short-staffed for over a year, affecting its ability to make decisions. In cases where there is a tie, lower court rulings stand and no national precedent is established. Reid attributed the Republican strategy to pressure from the party's conservative faction, specifically mentioning Donald Trump and Ted Cruz as examples. Reid stated that Senate Democrats would not block legislation like appropriations bills in retaliation for Republican inaction, in order to avoid becoming known as "the obstruct caucus." White House spokesman Josh Earnest expressed concern that denying a hearing for Obama's nominee would be unprecedented and bring politics into the Supreme Court, which has been insulated from such influence for over two centuries. Earnest noted that since 1875, a president's nominee has never been denied a hearing unless the nomination was later withdrawn. McConnell emphasized that presidents have the right to nominate while the Senate has the right to provide or withhold consent, in this case choosing to withhold it. Schumer, a Senate Democratic leader, believed that pressure from voters would cause vulnerable Republican Senate incumbents seeking re-election to reconsider their position on Obama's nominee. Schumer criticized Senate Republicans, calling their strategy risky and doomed to fail. However, Senator Orrin Hatch, a Republican Judiciary Committee member, expressed confidence in their decision, stating that they are standing up for the principle that the next president should address the issue. Democrats are outnumbered in the Senate, lacking the 60 votes required to pass controversial legislation or a Supreme Court nomination. With 46 seats controlled by Democrats and the remaining 54 held by Republicans, they face an uphill battle. | 1 |
Finance leaders from the top industrialised nations of the world showed unity in response to an economic slowdown and acknowledged that the situation could worsen due to the deteriorating US housing market. In a statement after meetings in Tokyo, the Group of Seven stated that economic growth prospects had deteriorated since their last meeting in October, although the fundamentals remained strong and the US economy was likely to avoid a recession. Italian Economy Minister Tommaso Padoa-Schioppa noted a greater sense of pessimism and concern compared to October. The finance ministers and central bankers from Japan, the United States, Canada, Britain, Germany, Italy, and France anticipated varying degrees of slowdown in their countries in the near term. They highlighted significant risks from the US housing market decline and the resulting credit tightening, which has hindered the flow of money to consumers and businesses that drive the global economy. Banks with high levels of debt have reduced lending due to increasing losses, mainly from failing U.S. home loans, surpassing $100 billion. This has led to concerns about a harmful cycle as consumer spending decreases, causing businesses to cut back and lay off workers. Glenn Maguire, chief economist for Asia Pacific at Societe Generale in Hong Kong, observed that the G7 did not provide much detail on how they plan to support the economy through coordinated action. He emphasized that the economic challenges stem from internal issues in the U.S. and may not be solved by a globally synchronized plan. U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson warned that global markets could face a prolonged period of instability. In prepared remarks issued after the meeting, Paulson stated that the current financial crisis is severe and ongoing. He mentioned that as the financial markets recover from this stressful period, we should anticipate continued volatility as risk is reassessed. The G7 leaders recommended that banks fully disclose their losses and strengthen their balance sheets to help restore market operations to normal. German finance minister Peer Steinbrueck warned that writeoffs could amount to $400 billion. The communique emphasized the importance of closely monitoring developments and taking necessary actions, both individually and collectively, to ensure stability and growth in the economies. Promises to collaborate in restoring the financial system's health were overshadowed by disagreements over fiscal and monetary policies leading up to the G7 summit. Concerns arose in Europe regarding the U.S. Federal Reserve's rapid interest rate cuts and fiscal stimulus package, potentially straining relations with allies. However, tensions eased after the European Central Bank indicated it may follow suit in cutting rates, aligning with other central banks. French Economy Minister Christine Lagarde welcomed this move but expressed a desire for further actions. European leaders were particularly worried about the euro's strength against the dollar, which reached a record high following the Fed's rate cuts in September. However, the currency weakened after the ECB changed its position. Foreign exchange issues were not a priority at Saturday's meeting due to more urgent economic concerns. The communique reiterated the importance of China allowing its yuan to appreciate faster, as many G7 leaders believe the undervalued yuan gives China an unfair trade advantage and have urged Beijing to increase domestic investment to rebalance the global economy. The statement recommended that oil exporters increase their production following a brief period where oil prices exceeded $100 per barrel. Although prices have since decreased, they rose by 4 percent to $91.77 on Friday, marking the largest increase in nearly two months, due to supply issues and the approaching U.S. cold weather. | 1 |
EU ministers stated that they are unlikely to increase their carbon emissions reduction target from 20 percent to 30 percent unless other countries also pledge to do the same. The EU's current goal is to cut carbon dioxide emissions by 20 percent from 1990 levels within the next decade. They had previously promised to deepen this reduction to 30 percent if other nations made similar commitments at the Copenhagen climate talks. However, with the United Nations setting a deadline for countries to commit to emissions cuts by January 31, the EU does not believe that major economies will agree to comparable targets in time. Spanish Secretary of State for Climate Change Teresa Ribera expressed doubt that this goal could be achieved during a meeting of EU environment ministers in Seville, Spain. The decision was widely anticipated, as the EU, responsible for approximately 14 percent of global CO2 emissions, aims to take a leading role in climate negotiations despite being marginalized at the previous year's meeting in Copenhagen. Environmentalists had urged the EU to set a more ambitious target to set an example. While not ruling out a 30 percent reduction in emissions in the future, the EU is looking to secure concessions from other countries first. Connie Hedegaard, the nominee for European climate commissioner, expressed hope during a European Parliament hearing that the EU's conditions for moving to a 30 percent reduction would be met before a meeting in Mexico later this year. Before the Copenhagen talks, the United Nations had requested that affluent nations reduce their emissions by 25-40 percent by 2020 in order to limit the average increase in global temperatures to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. | 1 |
Bhupesh Baghel, the chief minister of Chhattisgarh, expressed the government's intention to train local women in producing and selling clean energy as the state aims to shift away from coal. Baghel acknowledged the global trend towards green energy and emphasized the importance of finding alternative sources while recognizing coal's current role in meeting energy demands. He highlighted the government's focus on the well-being of the indigenous population and environmental conservation in the decision to gradually move away from coal. India, being a major player in the coal industry, has significant reserves, particularly in Chhattisgarh. During the COP26 climate summit last year, India announced its goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and increasing the proportion of renewables in its energy mix from 38% to 50% by 2030. In line with this commitment and with the aim of improving the lives of over 40% of Chhattisgarh residents living below the poverty line, Baghel's government introduced a circular economy plan in 2020. The plan is designed to create more employment opportunities, raise incomes, and establish a sustainable rural economy through the establishment of industrial parks and support for women's groups in producing and selling natural products, including energy derived from cow dung. In Baghel's flagship programme, villagers are compensated 2 rupees ($0.03) for every kilogram of dung collected, which is then processed into various products such as organic compost, fuel, and herbal colors for local festivals. Baghel mentioned that the initiatives in the state address various issues, such as stray cattle, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability. He stated that 8,000 community spaces called gouthans have been established in villages to collect cow dung and process it into products, with the goal of eventually generating power. Despite India's focus on coal mining for energy production, Baghel has resisted opening new mines in the Hasdeo Arand region, emphasizing the need for a long-term plan. The state has partnered with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre to set up 500 biogas plants in the gouthans, each capable of powering over 2,500 homes daily. Depending on the quantity of cow dung collected, the plants will either be permanent installations or small mobile units. Baghel stated that power will be generated right at the doorstep of the people. While the state is waiting for approval on proposed solar power projects, Baghel mentioned that energy from cow dung will be generated continuously. Women will be trained to operate and maintain the digesters that convert animal waste into biogas. This gas will be utilized for cooking and electricity production, which will be distributed through a micro-grid to the local area. The electricity will be provided to rural industries and households, used for street lighting, and any excess will be sent to the state electricity grid. Baghel emphasized the importance of decentralizing power generation and distribution to make electricity easily accessible to everyone, including indigenous people who often struggle to access it. He also mentioned the goal of generating income from cow dung. Drawing inspiration from Hindu scriptures and his own childhood experiences, Baghel emphasized the importance of self-reliance and giving back to nature in his plan. G V Ramanjaneyulu, executive director of the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, supported this approach, stating that it would improve energy access and address agricultural waste. He also highlighted the practicality and profitability of using dung as an energy source. Baghel's administration is aligned with the Indian government's initial strategy to move away from coal in regions where mines have closed. They are also focused on assisting workers in gaining new skills to pursue careers in eco-tourism or fish-farming. Baghel stated that they are demonstrating the profitability of these alternative jobs to people, offering incentives for them to transition. He believes that changes will soon be seen as a result of these efforts. | 1 |
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda will meet with Russia's outgoing and incoming presidents on Saturday to seek Moscow's support for a new global initiative to reduce greenhouse gases. The meeting will briefly touch on a territorial dispute over four islands in the Pacific, but the main focus will be on finding a more effective replacement for the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, which expires in 2012. Fukuda's visit aims to establish a personal relationship of trust with President Putin and president-elect Medvedev, and to prepare for the upcoming G8 summit in Hokkaido, Japan. Tokyo is looking forward to the G8 summit as an opportunity to create a climate change agreement that includes major polluters like the United States, China, and India, who have not agreed to the limits on emissions set by the Kyoto Protocol. Russia, a member of the G8, has committed to the Kyoto Protocol, and Japanese officials are hopeful that Moscow will also support a new agreement in Hokkaido. The contentious islands, known as the Southern Kuriles in Russia and the Northern Territories in Japan, are located near the G8 summit venue in Hokkaido. Personal relations between Russia and Japan have been strained since the Soviet troops seized disputed islands in the final days of World War Two. Neither side has recognized the other's sovereignty over the islands, hindering the signing of a treaty to officially end wartime hostilities. Prime Minister Fukuda plans to encourage Russian leaders to expedite discussions to resolve the territorial dispute in order to improve bilateral relations. Despite Russia's willingness to negotiate, they have not shown any indication of relinquishing control of the islands. A Kremlin official stated that their position remains unchanged and they do not anticipate any progress in the talks with Fukuda. Trade between Russia and Japan reached $20 billion in 2007, driven by companies like Toyota Motor Corp establishing a factory to access the growing Russian market. However, trade with Japan is significantly lower than trade with the European Union, Russia's largest trading partner. Japan believes it can assist Russia in developing its Far East region, which is rich in energy resources and sparsely populated. Japanese companies have invested in large oil and gas projects on Sakhalin Island in Russia's Pacific region, and there is ongoing construction of a pipeline that will transport oil from eastern Siberia to the Pacific coast. | 1 |
Ian Shippen, a 42-year-old farmer with spiked hair, is considered a rural prophet in the arid salt plains located 1,000 kilometers west of Sydney. Shippen believes that the ongoing drought in Australia's food bowl will bring permanent changes to agriculture in the driest settled continent. According to Shippen, farmers will have to revert to traditional farming methods, similar to those used 100 years ago, focusing on growing broadacre areas and raising sheep. He predicts that vast areas of land will become unproductive, forcing farmers to only be able to sustain one sheep per 5 or 6 acres. Shippen believes that the drought will have a significant impact on the agricultural industry. Shippen, along with many others, is trying to find solutions to overcome the drought by taking a risk and transitioning from irrigated cropping. Nine years ago, he cultivated rice on 2,000 acres of previously barren land that had been made arable by water from the eastern Australian alps, located a day's drive away. Shippen and his wife Camilla, who is the daughter of a city doctor, foresaw the impending changes as a prolonged dry spell began and water costs started to rise, altering the profitability of irrigation. Shippen believes that the increasing cost of water has transformed it from an asset to a liability. Shippen, a local councillor and respected farmer, is selling water licenses to other farmers in order to purchase more land. This strategy has allowed him to expand his operation from a few thousand acres to over 180,000 acres, supporting thousands of sheep and cattle. However, the debt incurred from these purchases demands significant interest payments, forcing Shippen to work tirelessly to pay off the loans. Shippen believes that despite the challenges of drought, there are also opportunities to be found. He acknowledges the uncertainty of the upcoming summer and the impact it will have on crops and livestock sales. Shippen notes that some farmers may be forced to sell their farms at low prices, highlighting the competitive nature within the farming community. He emphasizes that the major shift in focus is not just the drought, but also the increasing attention on water conservation by Australian governments in response to the possibility of a permanent climate change. Shippen is lamenting the fact that due to the current boom in commodities and the sale of Australian resources to China, farmers have lost their political influence. He expresses concern that they are now unable to advocate for important national projects such as redirecting coastal rivers westward to potentially mitigate future droughts. Shippen believes that farmers, who make up only 2 percent of the population, are now considered irrelevant and expendable. He predicts that they will have to make tough decisions, such as selling stock, converting wheat to hay, and laying off employees, in order to survive the current situation. | 1 |
In Washington on Feb. 1, the United States issued a warning to Americans about the dangers of traveling to Kenya due to a recent increase in political violence. Since President Mwai Kibaki's controversial re-election on Dec. 27, approximately 850 people have been killed in political and ethnic clashes in Kenya. The killing of an opposition lawmaker on Thursday led to more protests and deadly confrontations. The State Department emphasized that the situation in Kenya was unpredictable and advised caution, noting that some U.S. officials had been relocated from Kisumu to Nairobi due to the unrest. The State Department highlighted recent protests in Nairobi and violent incidents in Kisumu, Nakuru, and Naivasha, warning of the potential for spontaneous violence given the current political climate. The warning advised American citizens to refrain from traveling to certain cities and areas outside Nairobi. It cautioned them to be ready for potential confrontations between police and protesters or rival groups. The alert emphasized that even peaceful demonstrations could turn violent, urging Americans to steer clear of all protests, demonstrations, and crowded public events. | 1 |
Shehabuddin Kislu reports from New York that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presented a set of five recommendations aimed at achieving a hunger-free world at a seminar held at the United Nations Headquarters. Hasina emphasized the importance of effective assistance from the UN in helping member countries combat natural disasters such as floods and droughts. She also called for support in improving health and education services. Hasina expressed her backing for the food security proposal put forth by the UN Task Force during the seminar hosted by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. The prime minister is recommending a food self-sufficiency plan that includes coordinated operations, raising funds from multiple countries, fulfilling financial obligations, and ensuring fair distribution of food domestically and globally. She also suggests implementing food security programs involving various organizations, including the private sector and civil society. The prime minister mentioned that Bangladesh achieved food self-sufficiency in 1996 under the Awami League government and aims to do so again. She emphasized that ensuring food security for all is a top priority for her administration, despite challenges such as recurrent droughts, tidal surges, and tropical storms caused by climate change. She mentioned that the government is making efforts to guarantee food security by offering various subsidies. She reminded the assembly that Bangladesh has received recognition from the UN for achieving food self-sufficiency. In his opening speech, Ban highlighted the issue of hunger affecting a billion people worldwide, with uneven distribution of food globally. Ban emphasized the need to show support to nations and communities facing food insecurity by building on existing principles, creating a plan of action, and achieving concrete outcomes. The situation was described as very unfortunate by the UN chief, who expressed confidence in the task force's ability to effectively address the issue. Clinton viewed the gathering at the UN as a chance to collaborate and share ideas in order to combat a significant challenge, emphasizing that it impacts everyone. She highlighted the US's commitment to providing at least $3.5 billion over the next three years to enhance agriculture worldwide, outlining five guiding principles including addressing the root causes of hunger and improving coordination on various levels. She stressed the interconnectedness of global food security and peacekeeping efforts. | 1 |
Less than a month after an external investigation commissioned by the World Bank found that she had a significant role in manipulating the 2018 Doing Business survey, a decision was reached. The inquiry raised concerns about her judgment and capability to lead the IMF. However, the executive board ultimately determined that there was not enough evidence to prove any wrongdoing on Georgieva's part. The board expressed full confidence in her leadership and ability to fulfill her duties effectively, stating that they believe in her commitment to upholding high standards of governance and integrity at the IMF. Despite the controversy, Georgieva, a Bulgarian economist, continued to receive strong support from many of the IMF's shareholders, including France, who had advocated for her appointment in 2019. The United States, as the fund’s largest shareholder, did not publicly support her after the allegations but did not call for her removal. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen spoke with Georgieva and acknowledged legitimate concerns raised by the World Bank investigation into her actions. Yellen stated that without further evidence of Georgieva's involvement in data manipulation, there was no reason to change leadership at the fund. However, this decision could have political consequences for the Biden administration, as both Republicans and Democrats in Congress had urged Yellen to demand full accountability from Georgieva for instructing staff to manipulate China's ranking in the annual report on national business climates. Lawmakers from both parties and the Biden administration have expressed worry over China's increasing economic power and influence in global organizations. The Treasury Department officials have been discussing the seriousness of the situation for weeks and have stated that the review process of Georgieva's actions at the World Bank should be allowed to proceed. The World Bank's Doing Business report evaluates the business environment in various countries, with developing nations particularly concerned about their rankings as they use them to attract foreign investment. During the time of the alleged manipulation, World Bank officials were focused on negotiations for a capital increase and were hesitant to upset China, which was ranked 78th on the list of countries in 2017 and was expected to drop in the 2018 report. The investigation revealed that Jim Yong Kim's staff, as well as Georgieva, worked on ways to boost China's ranking at the World Bank without negatively impacting other countries. Georgieva was found to be actively involved in efforts to improve China's ranking and even reprimanded the bank's China director for mishandling the country's relationship with the bank. Recently, the IMF's executive board interviewed officials from the law firm WilmerHale, who conducted the investigation, as well as Georgieva herself, who defended her actions and criticized the investigation process. Georgieva stated to the board, as reported by The New York Times, that the WilmerHale Report did not accurately represent her actions regarding Doing Business 2018, nor did it accurately depict her character or her conduct throughout her lengthy professional career. Georgieva, a former World Bank employee who eventually became its chief executive, also had experience with the European Commission and holds a Ph.D. in economics. She expressed gratitude for the IMF board's confidence in her leadership, stating that she was pleased the allegations were found to be unfounded after a thorough review of the facts. "Trust and honesty are the fundamental principles of the global companies where I have dedicatedly worked for over forty years." © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
According to a statement from its embassy in Dhaka, Sweden has announced that they will increase aid to the Palestinians and recognize the State of Palestine. This decision has been praised by the Palestinian president but criticized by Israel. Sweden is the first long-term EU state to make this recognition, which comes after Prime Minister Stefan Lofven expressed a desire to support a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Swedish government believes that recognizing Palestine will help facilitate peace talks and hopes that it will contribute to a future where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully. This decision is also seen as a way to support moderate Palestinian forces and provide hope during a time of heightened tensions and stalled peace talks. Sweden's increased aid to Palestine will focus on state-building, women's empowerment, and resilience to environmental and climate changes. Minister for International Development Cooperation Isabella Lövin stated that this assistance aims to support democratic and non-violent forces in Palestine. | 1 |
Italian authorities arrested numerous Mafia suspects in Sicily on Tuesday, as part of ongoing efforts to weaken the organized crime group. Interior Minister Giuliano Amato stated that the government's presence in Sicily is making a significant impact in eradicating the Mafia clans. Among the 70 arrest orders executed was one for Enzo Santapaola, the son of notorious mob boss Benedetto "Nitto" Santapaola in Catania. The suspects are facing charges of extortion, drug trafficking, and other offenses. This operation is part of a series of crackdowns on the Sicilian Mafia, including the recent arrest of Salvatore Lo Piccolo, known as the "boss of bosses," who had been on the run for nearly 25 years. Magistrates are of the opinion that Lo Piccolo took control of the Cosa Nostra after Bernardo Provenzano's arrest in 2006. Another significant Mafia leader, who was among Italy's 30 most wanted individuals, was fatally shot by police on Monday while attempting to evade capture. | 1 |
The themes of the 193-member General Assembly agenda include trade wars, migration, energy supplies, climate change, and poverty eradication. The actions of the Trump administration, which has shown disregard for international institutions like the United Nations, are a common factor influencing discussions. US policy is a major topic of interest among leaders, with some notable absences such as Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia, Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, and Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela. However, only one notable figure, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine, is expected to be in attendance. Zelenskiy plans to meet with President Donald Trump amidst concerns that Trump pressured him on US domestic political matters. Some of the most significant moments and confrontations are likely to occur early in the week. Specifically, leaders like Bolsonaro, Trump, El-Sissi, and Erdogan, who share similar views, will be present. Trump, known for his bombastic style and controversial statements, will be surrounded by like-minded leaders such as Bolsonaro, who is often compared to Trump and shares his dismissive attitude towards climate change and critics on social media. Following Trump is President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt, who has become a symbol of the repression seen during the Arab Spring uprisings, although recent protests have cast doubt on his leadership. Next is President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, known for his authoritarian ways and crackdown on journalists. The United States and Saudi Arabia are gearing up to present their case against Iran, with hopes of meeting President Hassan Rouhani dashed after the recent attack on Saudi oil facilities, which US and Saudi officials blame on Iran. US officials are set to present evidence linking Iran to the attack using drones and cruise missiles. Iran has rejected the accusation, with Yemen's Houthi rebels claiming responsibility. Rouhani is expected to blame Trump for starting the conflict by pulling out of the 2015 nuclear deal and imposing harsh sanctions. The US is working on forming a coalition to deter Iran, but the exact nature of this deterrence is uncertain. The General Assembly allows the administration to focus on building coalitions and applying political and economic pressure instead of rushing into a military response, according to Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Washington will not be present at a climate change meeting, as the United States has no plans to address the issue after withdrawing from the Paris Agreement in 2017. However, some state governors from the US Climate Alliance will attend the summit. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is set to meet with Chinese officials, potentially paving the way for resumed trade negotiations. The two governments have recently halted their increasing tariff dispute, but some officials within the administration are advocating for Trump to address other sensitive issues with China. These issues include the pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong, the suppression of Tibetans, and the detainment of over a million Muslims, primarily ethnic Uighurs. One official suggested that Trump should at least denounce China for attempting to intimidate Uighur-American activists. Trump has never been vocal about human rights concerns and has openly praised Xi and other authoritarian leaders. However, members of Congress from both parties are urging Trump to take action. The bills targeting the Uighurs, Tibet, and Hong Kong are designed to push President Trump and his administration to adopt tougher positions. Japan and South Korea's leaders are currently not on speaking terms due to a longstanding feud stemming from Japan's wartime occupation. This feud has resulted in reduced trade relations and the termination of an intelligence-sharing agreement. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan and President Moon Jae-in of South Korea are not scheduled to meet. It is uncertain if Trump can facilitate a three-way discussion between them. Progress on the shared objective of North Korea's nuclear disarmament may be limited. During the General Assembly, Moon is expected to encourage Trump to resume diplomatic efforts with Kim Jong Un, although no high-ranking North Korean officials are scheduled to attend. There will be pressure on Europe to impose penalties on Venezuela's government, with foreign ministers from 18 Western Hemisphere nations, including the US, set to convene to address the situation. The focus will be on persuading the European Union to increase economic sanctions on Maduro's supporters, such as freezing their assets in Europe. There may also be a push for Europe to penalize those involved in smuggling Venezuelan gold into the continent. Despite facing calls for his resignation from Venezuela's opposition led by Juan Guaidó, Maduro, who claimed victory in disputed elections last year, remains in power amidst the country's economic collapse and mass migration crisis. Talks between the opposing factions in Venezuela broke down last week, creating tensions between the United States and Turkey. Trump and Erdogan are set to have a meeting on the sidelines, but the result is uncertain. Several challenging matters have caused conflict between their administrations. The Trump government is contemplating imposing sanctions on Turkey, a fellow NATO member, for purchasing a Russian S-400 missile defense system instead of American-made Patriots. Erdogan, on the other hand, has shown increasing frustration towards the United States for their collaboration in northern Syria, which shares a border with Turkey. He mentions that the Americans have not succeeded in creating a secure zone big enough to prevent Kurdish fighters from entering Turkey, which views them as terrorist rebels. Erdogan issued a warning on Saturday that his troops would take independent actions along the border if the United States did not intervene by the end of the month. Lastly, Afghanistan is the final country to address the General Assembly, following the breakdown of talks between the Taliban and the United States to end the long-standing war. President Ashraf Ghani, who has national elections approaching, was not anticipated to be present. The delegation from Afghanistan will be headed by Hamdullah Mohib, the national security adviser to Ashraf, instead. Mohib angered the Trump administration in March by stating that the peace talks would not result in peace. | 1 |
Biden, 78, took the presidential oath of office with his hand on a family Bible that has been passed down for over a century, administered by US Chief Justice John Roberts just after noon. He pledged to uphold the Constitution of the United States. This inauguration ceremony in Washington was significantly toned down due to the coronavirus and security concerns following the attack on the US Capitol on January 6. Outgoing President Donald Trump broke tradition by not meeting with Biden or attending the inauguration, further defying norms by not mentioning Biden by name in his final remarks before leaving for his retreat in Florida. Prominent Republicans, such as Vice President Mike Pence and congressional leaders, attended Biden's inauguration, along with former US Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Kamala Harris, Biden's running mate and the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, made history as the first Black person, first woman, and first Asian American to serve as vice president. She was sworn in by US Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the court's first Latina member, using two Bibles including one owned by Thurgood Marshall, the first Black US Supreme Court Justice. Biden assumes office during a time of significant national unease, with the country grappling with multiple crises including the pandemic, economic downturn, climate change, and racial inequality. He has pledged swift action, including a series of executive orders on his first day in office. The event on Wednesday took place in front of a heavily guarded US Capitol, where a group of Trump followers broke into the building two weeks ago, angry over his unfounded allegations of election fraud. The violence led to Trump's second impeachment by the Democratic-controlled US House of Representatives last week. Following the attack, thousands of National Guard troops were deployed in the city, resulting in five deaths and lawmakers temporarily seeking shelter. Instead of a large crowd of supporters, the National Mall was adorned with nearly 200,000 flags and 56 pillars of light symbolizing people from US states and territories. Biden, who has promised to "heal the soul of America," is expected to urge national unity during his inaugural speech in response to the current crisis. His inauguration marks the peak of a fifty-year career in public service, with over thirty years in the US Senate and two terms as vice president under former President Barack Obama. However, he is now facing challenges that would test even the most seasoned politician. The United States reached grim milestones on Trump's last day in office, with 400,000 deaths and 24 million infections due to the pandemic - the highest numbers in any country. Many Americans are unemployed due to pandemic-related closures and restrictions. Biden has promised to use the full power of the federal government to address the crisis. His main focus is a $1.9 trillion proposal that would improve unemployment benefits and give direct payments to households. However, this plan needs to be approved by a Congress that is sharply divided, with Democrats holding narrow majorities in both the House and Senate. Harris was set to swear in three new Democratic senators on Wednesday night, resulting in a 50-50 split in the Senate with herself as the tie-breaking vote. Biden is eager to move past the Trump administration and will quickly sign 15 executive orders on Wednesday addressing issues such as the pandemic, economy, and climate change. These orders will include requiring masks on federal property, rejoining the Paris climate agreement, and ending Trump's travel restrictions on certain Muslim-majority countries. Even though Biden has a busy agenda for his first 100 days, with plans to administer 100 million COVID-19 vaccinations, the Senate may be preoccupied with Trump's upcoming impeachment trial, which is proceeding even though he is no longer in office. This trial could be an early test of Biden's commitment to promoting bipartisanship in Washington. Trump granted over 140 pardons and commutations in his final hours as president, including one for his former adviser Steve Bannon, who is facing charges related to a fundraising scheme for a border wall. Despite speculation, Trump did not pardon himself or his family members. | 1 |
Iran is seeking significant changes to a UN nuclear fuel deal that it has tentatively accepted, according to state media. This could potentially disrupt the plan and leave Iran vulnerable to stricter sanctions. The European Union's foreign policy chief has stated that there is no need to renegotiate the UN draft, and warned that Iran may face harsher sanctions if it attempts to alter the plan. One of the key aspects of the plan that Iran opposes is the requirement to send most of its low-enriched uranium abroad for processing all at once, a measure that the West believes will reduce the risk of Iran developing nuclear weapons. Iran maintains that its uranium enrichment is solely for power generation, but its past secrecy and limitations on UN inspections have fueled suspicions in the West that it is seeking nuclear weapons capability. According to an unnamed official cited by the Iranian state Arabic-language satellite television station al Alam on Tuesday, Iran will provide its response to the proposed agreement within 48 hours. This comes after a deadline set by UN nuclear watchdog chief Mohamed ElBaradei. Al Alam stated that Iran will accept the general framework of the draft proposal but will request some important changes. It did not specify the amendments Iran will seek in the draft agreement, which was discussed in Vienna last week with Iran, Russia, France, and the United States. Iranian lawmakers have suggested importing foreign fuel instead of sending much of its low-enriched uranium stock abroad by the end of the year as outlined in the proposal. Iran's foreign minister mentioned on Monday the possibility of both importing foreign fuel and shipping out less LEU than requested by big powers to delay the potential weaponization of enrichment by at least a year. The proposed agreement involves Iran sending most of its known 1.5 tonnes of Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) to Russia for enrichment and then to France for conversion into fuel plates. These plates would then be returned to Tehran to power a research reactor used for cancer treatment. The agreement and U.N. monitoring of a newly-disclosed enrichment site were discussed at talks in Geneva between Iran and six world powers - the United States, Russia, China, France, Germany and Britain. A team of U.N. inspectors has visited the new site in Iran following its recent disclosure. Iran revealed the site to the IAEA after discovering that Western spy services had detected it. Iran's commitments made in Geneva led to a temporary halt in sanctions aimed at its oil industry, but Western nations emphasized that they would not indefinitely wait for Iran to fulfill its promises. These agreements are seen as tests of Iran's claim to only use refined uranium for peaceful purposes, and could pave the way for more significant negotiations on limiting Tehran's enrichment activities to resolve the nuclear standoff. Although there were plans to reconvene in October, delays in a fuel proposal and ongoing inspections made it unlikely for talks to resume this week. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner expressed concern about Iran's unclear statements, stating that time is running out for them. This area in the Middle East is highly volatile and poses a risk for potential conflict. The French foreign minister expressed concern about the Iranians potentially causing further escalation. He mentioned the possibility of implementing new sanctions if necessary, with discussions already underway among EU ministers. ElBaradei stated that Iran must send the majority of its low-enriched uranium overseas in order to build trust. He emphasized the significance of this step in reducing tensions and building confidence. By removing this material, there would be a year for peaceful negotiations, allowing Iran to demonstrate the truthfulness of their claims regarding uranium enrichment for peaceful purposes. Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki stated that Iran will reveal its decision on the pact within the next few days. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, who leads the Foreign Affairs and National Security committee in parliament, suggested that any exported Low Enriched Uranium should only be in small, gradual amounts. However, this proposal is not acceptable to Western and UN officials as it would not result in a decrease in Iran's overall stockpile of LEU. | 1 |
The environment state minister announced that no non-government organization (NGO) has received funding from the Climate Change Trust Fund. While 53 NGOs have been approved in principle by the technical committee, the final decision has not been made yet. A report in a national daily stated that 53 NGOs would receive Tk 213.4 million from the fund, but the minister emphasized that the technical committee's decision would undergo further scrutiny. Following an inter-ministerial meeting, the junior minister revealed that Tk 5.48 billion had been distributed from the fund for 48 projects. He stated that the remaining Tk 2 billion will be distributed within the year. He mentioned that 1.2 percent of the fund will be allocated to NGOs. He also noted that the majority of the 4,000 NGOs seeking funding lack experience in climate change mitigation. | 1 |
The partnership will officially begin on Tuesday. Methane, the second most prevalent greenhouse gas, has a stronger heat-trapping capacity than CO2 but deteriorates more quickly in the atmosphere, making reducing methane emissions an effective way to combat global warming. The Global Methane Pledge, introduced in September, now has half of the top 30 methane emitters and two-thirds of the global economy on board, as stated by a Biden administration official. Brazil, one of the largest methane emitters worldwide, is among the new signatories to be announced on Tuesday. China, Russia, and India, all of which are among the top five methane emitters, have not yet agreed to sign the pledge. These countries were previously identified as targets to join the pledge. Since the pledge was introduced in September with only a few countries signing on initially, the United States and European Union have been working to persuade the largest methane emitters in the world to join the partnership. Nearly 60 countries had signed up just last week, following a final diplomatic push from the United States and EU before the COP26 summit. Although not officially part of the UN negotiations, the methane pledge could prove to be one of the most significant outcomes of the COP26 conference due to its potential impact in combating devastating climate change. According to a report by the UN in May, significant reductions in methane emissions in the next ten years could prevent nearly 0.3 degrees Celsius of global warming by the 2040s. Failing to address methane emissions could make it impossible to achieve the goals set by the Paris Agreement to limit the global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and prevent the most severe impacts of climate change. The 30 percent reduction in methane emissions would be a collective effort by the countries involved and would encompass all sectors, including leaky oil and gas infrastructure, old coal mines, agriculture, and landfill sites. This commitment is expected to have the most significant impact on the energy industry, as experts believe that repairing leaky oil and gas infrastructure is the most efficient and cost-effective way to reduce methane emissions. The United States leads as the largest producer of oil and gas globally, with the EU being the top importer of gas. This week, the US is set to introduce regulations on methane emissions from oil and gas. Meanwhile, the EU and Canada are both expected to announce methane legislation related to the energy industry later in the year. | 1 |
He has also urged for a "transformation" of the seven-nation group consisting of Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand from South Asia and Southeast Asia into a more dynamic organization. This appeal was made at the 16th BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kathmandu, chaired by Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, ahead of the fourth summit. Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali highlighted the progress made since the 3rd BIMSTEC meeting in Myanmar in 2014 and the BIMSTEC Leaders' pledge at the Goa Retreat in India in October 2016. He reaffirmed Bangladesh's dedication to BIMSTEC cooperation. He requested the foreign ministers of BIMSTEC to evaluate the organization's structure, particularly in terms of cooperation, and to enhance the Secretariat. He emphasized the importance of finalizing the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area and its related MoUs and protocols for prompt implementation. Bangladesh highlighted the significance of collaboration in key areas such as connectivity, energy, poverty reduction, climate change, and people-to-people interactions. The summit's agenda was also finalized during the meeting. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to depart for Kathmandu on Thursday morning to participate in the two-day summit. | 1 |
Barack Obama's first foreign trip as president will be to Canada in an effort to address Canadian concerns about US protectionism. Trade, clean energy technology, the global economic crisis, and the war in Afghanistan will be discussed during the one-day trip to Ottawa, although time for substantive talks will be limited. The main focus will be on trade, specifically addressing worries about the "Buy American" clause in the US economic recovery package and ensuring it does not harm Canadian firms. Obama has reassured Canadians that protectionist policies could have negative consequences. The "Buy American" provision requires that any public works project funded by the stimulus package must use only goods made in the United States, including iron and steel. Although Obama has stated that the U.S. will comply with its international trade obligations, Harper expressed concern about the wording of the clause. Canada is also worried about Obama's intention to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement, as it could result in new tariff barriers. Obama aims to enhance environmental and labor regulations, and U.S. and Canadian labor unions are urging changes in various NAFTA provisions ahead of Obama's meeting with Harper. The AFL-CIO labor federation and the Canadian Labour Congress have emphasized the need to address the worsening economic crisis through coordinated efforts, including reopening and fixing flaws in the North American Free Trade Agreement. They also called for a range of complementary policies to be implemented, such as dealing with energy, climate change, green jobs, industrial policy, migration, and development. Three-way trade between the United States, Mexico, and Canada has significantly increased since NAFTA was established in 1994, with Canada and Mexico purchasing more than one-third of US exports. Despite the agreement being criticized for causing job losses in the US, the Obama administration officials have stated that the issue will not be a priority in talks with Canadian Prime Minister Harper due to the fragile state of the world economy. Obama's commitment to boosting trade between the neighboring countries, which amounts to $1.5 billion a day, will be emphasized. Obama will discuss clean energy technology with Harper and emphasize Canada's importance as a key energy supplier. Environmentalists are urging Obama to push Canada to address the environmental impact of its tar sands extraction in Alberta. Obama expressed interest in working with Canada on new technologies to reduce greenhouse gases, acknowledging the necessity of collaboration due to the US's reliance on Canadian energy. Additionally, Obama will address Canada's involvement in Afghanistan, where it has soldiers as part of a NATO-led force combatting insurgency, with Obama recently deploying more troops to the region. However, as Canada is set to remove its troops in 2011 and Obama has stated he is not going to Ottawa with a request for them to stay longer, the discussions are likely to concentrate on alternative ways for the Canadians to provide assistance. US authorities have described Thursday's meeting, occurring just a month after Obama's inauguration, as a chance for him to strengthen his personal connection with Harper, a conservative leader who had a close relationship with former President George W. Bush. | 1 |
The leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, also known as "the three amigos," are meeting for a summit in Mexico to discuss trade issues and the threat of drug gangs. President Barack Obama, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Mexican President Felipe Calderon will have dinner on Sunday night followed by talks on Monday. Their main focus is on boosting their economies, maintaining smooth trade, and addressing Mexican gangs involved in the drug trade across borders. Obama's national security adviser, Jim Jones, does not expect major agreements to be announced at the summit, but sees it as a step in ongoing discussions that will lead to agreements in the future. Calderon is likely to press Obama to resolve a cross-border trucking dispute. According to the North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican trucks are supposed to be permitted to enter the United States, but American trucking companies claim that Mexican trucks are not safe. This issue has been ongoing for years. In response to Obama canceling a program allowing Mexican trucks to operate beyond the U.S. border zone, Mexico imposed retaliatory tariffs of $2.4 billion on US goods in March. US business groups have been urging the White House to resolve the dispute, as they believe the ban could result in the loss of thousands of American jobs. Mexico's ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, expressed the desire for a final resolution to the trucking issue. He mentioned that he wants an agreement to be reached by the end of the year. Michael Froman, a top official at the White House, informed reporters that the Obama administration is giving significant attention to the issue and is collaborating with the US Congress to address safety concerns. Canadian officials are anticipated to express their worries about the "Buy American" components of a $787 billion economic stimulus bill, which they believe could exclude Canadian companies from US construction contracts funded by the stimulus. Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States. Froman stated that the Obama administration is in discussions with Canada and other countries to implement the 'Buy American' provision in a manner that complies with the law and international obligations, while also minimizing trade disruptions. Obama addressed concerns about potentially reopening NAFTA during his trip, stating that due to the weakened economies of the three nations involved, now is not the time to add enforceable labor and environmental protections to the treaty. He expressed interest in improving the treaty but emphasized that the focus should be on the challenging economic situation at hand. Additionally, discussions at the summit included addressing the issue of Mexican drug gangs, who have been responsible for a significant increase in violence and crime in the region. Obama is supporting Calderon's actions in going after drug traffickers and has praised Calderon's courage. Obama has promised to fully support Calderon during a visit in April, but Mexico is expressing concerns that anti-drug equipment and training are not arriving quickly enough. The leaders are also planning to discuss the H1N1 swine flu and address climate change together as they prepare for international talks in Copenhagen in December. | 1 |
According to a report cited by state media on Thursday, China needs to reduce its carbon intensity by 4 or 5 percent every year in order to achieve a goal of low-carbon development by 2050. Chinese President Hu Jintao previously promised to slow down the country's carbon emissions, but did not announce a specific target to jumpstart climate talks. The China Council of International Cooperation on Environment and Development is expected to present a report to the central government on reducing carbon intensity. The report suggests that in order to achieve annual emissions cuts of 4 to 5 percent, China will need to decrease energy intensity by 75 to 85 percent by 2050. The newspaper suggested that the manufacturing industry's share of the national economy should be reduced from 50 percent to 30 percent by the middle of the century. It also recommended that by 2030, over half of new energy demand should come from low-carbon sources, and by 2050, all new energy should be clean. Furthermore, the newspaper called for the promotion of carbon capture and storage technology by 2030. The China Daily noted that this was the first time a high-level think tank had put forth concrete proposals to reduce emissions since Hu's September speech, and emphasized the need for China to reform its environmental tax system. The report suggests that it is the right moment for the country to start imposing taxes on companies that release pollutants and carbon dioxide through the burning of fossil fuels. This recommendation is made in anticipation of a key UN climate conference in Denmark in December. The United Nations is aiming for the Copenhagen meeting to result in a more comprehensive and stringent legally binding agreement among all countries to combat climate change. However, negotiations have faced significant obstacles, dampening expectations for a successful outcome. | 1 |
The almost certain confirmation of Judge Brett M Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court marks the end of a week in which the president also finalized a new trade agreement with Canada and Mexico, a promise he made during his campaign. The most recent jobs report, released on Friday, showed that unemployment is at its lowest point since 1969. While these developments do not change the basic nature of a presidency that has been characterized by chaos and scandal, they provide Trump with a positive narrative to take into the upcoming midterm elections. With the special counsel investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election quieting down during the campaign season, Trump has an opportunity to shift the conversation to more favorable topics. David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to President Obama, noted that Trump has had a good week following a string of bad ones. He has had significant victories to boast about as a self-proclaimed constant "winner." However, even in Trump's aggressive presidency, these wins come at a cost. His tough negotiating tactics have damaged the relationship with Canada, and the battle over Kavanaugh's nomination has divided America further. The impact of Kavanaugh has sparked more controversy and could potentially help Trump in the Senate but harm his chances in the House, according to Axelrod. President Donald Trump spoke about the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement while US trade representative Robert Lighthizer held his notes in the Rose Garden of the White House on October 1, 2018. Trump, the first president in American history without prior public office or military experience, has struggled due to his lack of familiarity with government operations, legislation, and diplomacy. His efforts to achieve goals such as repealing Obamacare, tightening immigration regulations, building a border wall, and bringing peace to the Middle East have been hindered by his inexperience. Despite his success in dismantling agreements like the Asian-Pacific trade pact, global climate change accord, and Iran nuclear deal, he has not made any progress in negotiating new replacements. His most important achievement in terms of legislation was the tax-cutting package passed last year, which was largely shaped by Republican congressional leaders with their own motivations. However, in recent weeks, Trump has managed to finalize a revised trade agreement with South Korea and replace NAFTA with Canada and Mexico, accomplishments that once seemed out of reach. The unemployment rate continuing to decrease to 3.7 percent is a result of the economic recovery from Obama's presidency, which Trump does not recognize, but the strong economy has become one of his main political advantages. With Kavanaugh close to being confirmed, Trump has demonstrated his ability to push through a significant nomination that many believed would fail due to allegations of sexual misconduct. "It has been a great week..." Kellyanne Conway, his counselor, expressed excitement in an interview, stating that she is thrilled about the positive outcomes resulting from President Trump's perseverance, tenacity, and commitment to his campaign promises and principles. Republican activists have noted that Trump's success in defying conventional wisdom demonstrates that taking risks can be beneficial. Ben Domenech, publisher of The Federalist, a conservative news site, acknowledged that although President Trump has taken many risks, most of them have been successful, suggesting that even someone with poor luck can experience a winning streak. The true test of a skilled gambler is revealed when the dice settle. While the White House celebrated, their opponents mourned. Critics argue that Trump is appointing a man accused of sexual assault to the Supreme Court, damaging relationships with neighboring countries for a trade deal with exaggerated benefits, and taking credit for the economy while increasing the deficit. Despite these criticisms, some, like James J. Blanchard, former ambassador to Canada, acknowledge the positive aspects of Trump's actions, such as updating trade agreements. However, many doubt Trump's ability to repair relations. The success Trump has experienced may impact his support on the campaign trail in the coming weeks. Despite his low approval ratings, the outcome of the upcoming election remains uncertain. Patti Solis Doyle, who served as Hillary Clinton's campaign manager in 2008, expressed that Independents are particularly fed up with the chaos and uncertainty in the current political climate. Despite the positive aspects such as a strong economy and fulfilling campaign promises, she raised concerns about the consequences such as tariff wars, family separations, and a growing deficit. Trump is planning to ramp up his campaigning efforts in the near future. He will travel to Kansas on Saturday and spend six of the next eight days on the road, primarily holding lively arena rallies to excite his conservative supporters with passionate speeches. Democrats have been more energized for months, aiming to take control of the House and possibly the Senate from Trump's party in the midterm elections. While conservatives were fired up over the battle for Kavanaugh, Democrats may now be more motivated to vote out of anger at the outcome, particularly women who are upset about the dismissal of sexual assault allegations. It remains uncertain whether Trump can effectively focus on his key political points, as seen this week when he veered off topic while discussing the new trade agreement, which he named the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA. One constant observation during the Trump presidency is the rapid shift in the narrative from week to week or even day to day. The emergence of new stories about internal conflicts, international disputes, or revelations from ongoing investigations could overshadow any progress leading up to the Nov 6 election. According to Axelrod, it is uncertain how these factors will impact the political landscape in a month, which seems like a long time in the current era of Trump. | 1 |
India announced that its current energy policy is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than 25 percent by 2020. However, the country expressed concerns that mandatory targets to address global warming could negatively impact economic growth. India, one of the top polluters in the world along with the United States, China, Russia, and Japan, is not obligated under the Kyoto Protocol to reduce its emissions despite pressure from developed nations and environmental organizations. Prodipto Ghosh, the environment secretary, highlighted India's efforts in energy efficiency and renewable energy promotion, stating that these initiatives have been effective in reducing emissions. Ghosh stated that their modeling approaches indicate that India's policies will lead to a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020. Booming economies like India and China may face increased pressure at the upcoming Group of Eight summit in Germany to take more action in reducing emissions. India is currently spending 2.17 percent of its GDP annually on addressing climate change through various projects. Experts predict that the Indian subcontinent will be heavily impacted by natural disasters, diseases like malaria, and hunger due to global warming. The blame for this issue lies with industrialized nations, who should aim for higher emissions cuts rather than pressuring developing countries. A recent study reported that the world's richest countries, including the United States, were responsible for 60 percent of total emissions in 2004 and 77 percent of cumulative emissions since the Industrial Revolution. Ghosh stated that developing countries such as India have not, currently do not, and will not in the near future be a major source of emissions. He believes that any regulations aimed at reducing emissions could harm GDP growth and hinder efforts to alleviate poverty. Ghosh called on Western countries to provide more assistance to help developing nations cope with the effects of climate change, emphasizing that the poor will be most affected by these impacts. | 1 |
She delivered her comments during her speech at the 76th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) through a video conference on Thursday. The session's theme was centered around "promoting economic, social, and environmental cooperation on oceans for sustainable development". Although Hasina was initially expected to attend the meeting in Bangkok and give the keynote address, the session had to be conducted virtually for the first time due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. The Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand and Permanent Representative to the ESCAP, Nazmul Quaunine, was chosen as the chair of the 76th Commission of UNESCAP. In her remarks regarding the impact of the coronavirus crisis, Hasina mentioned, "The world is currently facing unprecedented challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic." The virus has had a significant impact on our economy in addition to health issues. Despite this, the pandemic has prompted global efforts to address climate change and competition for natural resources. Cooperation is necessary to combat the virus, with a focus on capacity building and sustainable use of marine resources in developing countries. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and Bangladesh's dedication to promoting the growth of the blue economy as part of their national development strategy. The prime minister emphasized that oceans and seas offer opportunities to alleviate poverty and create jobs. She highlighted the importance of addressing environmental pollutants in the marine food-web and emphasized the need for a sustainable approach to using ocean resources. The government is prioritizing the growth of the blue economy as part of the national development strategy. Conservation programs and eco-friendly technologies are being used to protect freshwater and marine resources in Bangladesh. The prime minister also discussed key ocean issues that need to be addressed to enhance economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries. Hasina stated that there is a need for improved support in capacity building through the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and technology transfer from advanced countries in relation to the Blue Economy. The leader of Bangladesh stressed the importance of collaborative research among member countries on fisheries development to boost regional fish production and create a common network to prevent illegal fishing. Hasina called on ESCAP to begin mapping and managing resource identification, while also taking measures to safeguard critical coastal habitats and biodiversity. Along with Hasina, Prime Minister of Thailand Prayut Chan-o-cha, Prime Minister of Fiji Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama, and Prime Minister of Tuvalu Kausea Natano also delivered their video messages to the Commission. During the session, Asia Pacific nations agreed to work together to address the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and passed a resolution. | 1 |
The UN Security Council will discuss climate change on April 17 for the first time, thanks to a British effort to include it on the agenda of a body focused on war and peace. Britain's UN ambassador Emyr Jones Parry emphasized that climate change could worsen traditional conflict triggers. Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett will lead the debate, underscoring Britain's belief in the topic's importance for global security. Other countries have been invited to send foreign ministers to participate in the discussion. In March, Britain announced its plan to address climate change in the Security Council, but this required approval from all 15 members, including the five permanent members with veto power. China and Russia, two permanent members, showed some opposition to holding the debate, while the United States, who has not ratified the Kyoto Protocol, did not oppose. Prime Minister Tony Blair and Beckett, a former secretary of state for environment, have been leading efforts against global warming in international forums like the European Union, which recently agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020. In anticipation of some UN member states arguing that climate change should be handled by the General Assembly or other environmental agencies, Britain circulated a concept paper arguing that climate change could lead to conflicts, border changes, energy disruptions, and mass migrations. The paper discusses six possible areas in which climate change may impact global security: border disputes, migration, energy supplies, other resource shortages, societal stress, and humanitarian crises. It highlights that melting ice and rising sea levels could change physical landmasses globally, potentially affecting political and maritime borders. Additionally, mass migration may occur, with projections suggesting that up to 200 million people could be displaced by the middle of the century. | 1 |
Australia's ex-anti-immigrant politician, Pauline Hanson, is planning to relocate to Britain to avoid ongoing controversy surrounding her previous comments about Asians overwhelming Australia. Hanson, who rose from owning a fish-and-chip shop to founding the One Nation party, announced in an interview with Australia's Woman's Day magazine that she will be selling her home in Queensland and moving to the UK in search of tranquility. She stated, "I will be leaving for an unspecified period of time. It's essentially a permanent goodbye. I have reached my limit." I desire tranquility and satisfaction in my life. That is my goal. Hanson gained popularity in 1996 when she joined the national parliament as an independent, advocating for reductions in Aboriginal welfare and immigration from neighboring countries. Her nationalist One Nation party received a million votes in 1998, but she ultimately lost her seat and was convicted of electoral fraud, serving a brief jail sentence. After her conviction was overturned in 2003, she left politics and became a minor celebrity, even participating in a television dancing competition at one point. Hanson expressed her dissatisfaction with the changes she has seen in Australia, despite speculation by political analysts that the country's mood is once again aligning with her views. She believes that the country is no longer the land of opportunity as it once was. The increase in asylum seekers has caused division among Australians and is expected to be a major issue in the upcoming elections, which Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is expected to win. Immigration is projected to increase Australia's population to 35 million by 2050, with Rudd supporting a "big Australia" for economic sustainability, while critics argue that it may not be able to handle climate change and aging infrastructure. | 1 |
The Director General of CIRDAP stated that policymakers are not interested in ideas that do not have donor support. Dr. Durga P Paudyal reflected on his eight-year tenure in Bangladesh, where the institute is located, and discussed the challenges of convincing policymakers to act on new policies and ideas without adequate funding. He made these comments during a briefing with journalists about the institute's upcoming anniversary celebration. CIRDAP was established on July 6, 1979 through the joint efforts of countries in the Asia-Pacific region and the UN's FAO to collaborate on rural development and poverty alleviation. Initially consisting of six members, the organization has since grown to include 15 member states as of 2010, with Fiji as the most recent addition. The members are Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Fiji. Dr. Paudyal emphasized the importance of south-south cooperation, stating that it is more beneficial to learn from neighboring or developing countries rather than developed ones. Regional dialogues and meetings are organized to facilitate the sharing of best practices among the member states. He stated that CIRDAP helped governments in various ways, some of which may not be immediately visible. When discussing climate change and rural development in the region, it is important to consider all 15 countries that are members of the institution, not just Bangladesh. While programs organized in Iran may not be well-known in Bangladesh, CIRDAP primarily operates at the policy level rather than at the grassroots level. The Director General mentioned that CIRDAP played a role in developing Bangladesh's current system for monitoring and analyzing poverty. He also praised the current government for showing interest in CIRDAP as a form of regional cooperation. "We received more than USD 2 million from Bangladesh to construct an international conference center here," he stated. The Director General mentioned that they would be hosting a 'Founding Day' lecture as part of their anniversary celebrations, where former Indian President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam will discuss sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. Dr. Cecep Effendi from Indonesia will take over for Dr. Paudyal on July 6, according to a statement from CIRDAP. | 1 |
The Prime Minister of Denmark stated that China is dedicated to reaching a climate change agreement at important discussions next year, despite the global economic crisis. Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen is currently in Beijing for an Asia-Europe meeting and is actively engaging with China, a major contributor to carbon dioxide emissions, in preparation for end-game talks on a new climate change pact in Copenhagen next year. Rasmussen emphasized that following discussions with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, China has confirmed its commitment to reaching an agreement in Copenhagen in December 2009. The negotiations, scheduled to conclude late next year, are aimed at developing a treaty based on the current Kyoto Protocol climate agreement, which will expire at the end of 2012. Denmark's significant role as host has made it a key player in seeking consensus. Despite global attention on the financial crisis and disagreements between wealthy and developing nations on how to address climate change, Chinese commitment is seen as a positive signal by Danish Prime Minister Rasmussen. He urged other countries not to allow the economic downturn to hinder progress on a new agreement, emphasizing that investing in green technology could help boost the economy. Rasmussen warned against using the financial crisis as an excuse to weaken efforts to address climate change. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso emphasized the importance of staying focused on combating climate change, even amidst the financial crisis. He stated that delaying action on climate change is not acceptable and urged China to join in the fight. Barroso acknowledged that reducing emissions comes with a cost, but emphasized that the cost of climate change will be much higher, especially for China. He called for efforts to combat climate change to remain on track, despite the challenges posed by the current financial crisis. Additionally, he pointed out that under the current Kyoto pact, China and other developing nations are not required to agree to limits on their greenhouse gas emissions. China's rapidly increasing emissions, believed to exceed those of the United States, have prompted other countries to urge firmer limits on China. EU environment ministers have suggested that developing countries should aim to keep emissions 15 to 30 percent lower than "business as usual" levels. The EU proposal does not impose a strict limit on emissions from poorer countries but requires them to take measurable actions. This approach could encourage China and other developing countries to make commitments to reduce emissions. According to Rasmussen, contributions from industrialized nations alone will not suffice, and engagement from major emerging economies is necessary. During the opening of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on Friday, discussions regarding climate change policy will take place among the 27 EU member states, the European Commission, Japan, China, India, and 13 other Asian countries. Rasmussen expressed his hope that the meeting will result in an agreement to aim for a pact in Copenhagen. | 1 |
Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali announced that Hasina will hold discussions with her Austrian counterpart during the upcoming conference in Vienna, titled “International Conference on the Technical Cooperation Programme: Sixty Years and Beyond – Contributing to Development”. Leaders from various continents will be in attendance. Hasina, along with her team, will depart from Dhaka on a special Biman Bangladesh flight. Ali emphasized that Hasina's presence at the conference will demonstrate Bangladesh's dedication to global peace and enhance the country's reputation as a promoter of peaceful nuclear energy use. Bangladesh joined the IAEA in 1972 with the assistance of the late nuclear scientist Dr. MA Wazed Miah, the prime minister's husband. The prime minister is expected to discuss in her speech how the IAEA's technical cooperation program has been beneficial for Bangladesh in improving its atomic energy capabilities, socio-economic development, and sustainable development. Additionally, she will emphasize the importance of science and technology in the development of 'digital Bangladesh'. The foreign minister noted that Austria was one of the earliest countries to acknowledge Bangladesh in 1972. The former Austrian Federal Chancellor Bruno Kriesky showed support for Bangladesh, leading to Hasina presenting him with the 'Friends of Liberation War Honor Award' in 2012. In 2014, Bangladesh established a resident mission in Vienna. As part of the government's strategy to enhance relations with Europe, steps have been taken to strengthen ties with Austria. Hasina is anticipated to hold a bilateral meeting with Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Kern. Foreign Minister Ali stated that during the upcoming visit, the prime minister will cover topics such as agriculture and livestock cooperation, initiating direct flights, and holding regular diplomatic consultations, in addition to discussing trade, investment, and sustainable development. They will also address global issues such as terrorism, migration, refugee crisis, climate change, and the post-Brexit Europe situation. A memorandum of understanding on foreign office consultations will be signed during the visit, and Prime Minister Hasina will also meet with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen. Ali expressed hope that the visit will further strengthen bilateral relations. The prime minister is expected to depart from Vienna on Tuesday evening and return to Dhaka on Wednesday morning. In addition to the foreign minister, the minister of science and technology will be joining the prime minister on her trip. | 1 |
In Tokyo on Sunday, anti-G8 summit protesters marched in heavy rain, accusing the Group of Eight rich nations of causing poverty and world instability. The protests, a common occurrence at G8 summits, occurred as Japan increased security measures for this year's gathering in Hokkaido. Over 1,000 people, including anti-capitalists and labor union members from Japan and abroad, participated in two separate rallies in Tokyo. Heavy security, including hundreds of anti-riot police, was present as protesters carried signs with messages such as "shut down G8 summit" and "G8=hunger". Some protesters engaged in scuffles with the police. TV Asahi, a Japanese broadcaster, reported that two individuals had been arrested, although the police were unable to confirm this. Yu Ando, a 31-year-old municipal government worker in western Japan, expressed his belief that issues like environmental destruction and poverty in Africa are all a result of actions taken by the G8 governments. He criticized the governments for claiming to be able to solve these issues. Ahead of the summit at Lake Toya, located about 760 km north of Tokyo, various domestic and international NGOs, including Oxfam, are planning to protest a variety of topics such as globalization, the food crisis, and wars. Protests are anticipated to occur near the summit venue, where protesters are expected to gather at three camp sites, as well as in Tokyo and Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. However, stringent security measures and the high cost of travel to the remote summit location could potentially decrease the number of participants. Human rights lawyers have expressed concerns that Japanese immigration authorities are making it difficult for some activists to obtain visas by complicating the application process, with reports indicating that some activists were detained for hours at immigration checkpoints. During last year's G8 summit in Heiligendamm, Germany, around 30,000 protesters converged on the area, breaching a restricted zone set up for the summit and blocking access routes. At Lake Toya, leaders from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States will convene to discuss issues such as rising food and oil prices, climate change, and African development. Japan has extended invitations to eight additional countries, such as Brazil, China, and India, to engage in discussions about climate change alongside them. | 1 |
The extra paperwork, fees, and health regulations required for goods to pass through Britain's border are especially difficult for businesses that transport small quantities. This is a challenge for specialist food importers in London who source products from small suppliers across Europe, making the city renowned for its dining scene. Yannos Hadjiioannou, the owner of Maltby & Greek, has faced obstacles in discovering and importing unique products from Greece and its islands due to these new requirements. Customers at his shop can find rare items like goat-milk butter, Mastelo cheese, mountain tea, and Gigantes beans from Feneos, which have become harder to import in recent weeks. After being postponed for a year, Britain began enforcing stricter customs requirements for goods entering the country from the European Union on January 1. Previously, these goods did not require customs declarations, but now they must be accompanied by them. Additionally, businesses importing animal and plant products, such as food, are now required to notify the government in advance of shipments. Despite the implementation of these new rules, the transition at the border has been relatively smooth. DFDS, a Danish logistics company that operates ferry services to Britain, explained that some customers had made errors in their paperwork, leading to delays in food shipments. Shipments from the Netherlands had to be temporarily halted to address a backlog from the previous day. DFDS CEO Torben Carlsen noted that lessons were learned from similar issues a year ago when the European Union implemented customs rules following Brexit. The problems included delayed deliveries, trucking companies ceasing service to Ireland, and food spoilage in ports. It took over a month to resolve most of these issues. Britain was unable to handle the same problems with imports this year. Approximately 25% of the nation's food is brought in from the European Union, particularly during the winter when there is a higher demand for fresh produce. However, there are difficulties that are not immediately apparent at the border. Some UK companies are absorbing the export costs of their European partners in order to retain them, while others are simply importing fewer goods, which limits choices for consumers. Others have started to limit their purchases to bulk orders and are not willing to experiment with new products. The decrease in imports was already apparent before the new import regulations were implemented. In the first nine months of 2021, food and drink imports dropped by approximately 11% compared to 2019, as reported by the Food and Drink Federation. Despite the fact that Britain exited the EU's customs union at the beginning of 2021, Hadjiioannou initially continued business as usual. However, within six months, the extra customs expenses and resulting price hikes became too costly. He no longer receives weekly shipments of anthotyro, a soft fresh sheep's milk cheese from Crete, and traditionally strained sheep or goat yogurt, causing these popular products to frequently be out of stock. Sausages from Crete are now frozen instead of fresh in order to be sent in larger, less frequent deliveries. According to Hadjiioannou, many perishable products, especially those with small volume but important for many restaurants and delis, have suffered due to Brexit. The main impact of Brexit has been the loss of flexibility. Maltby & Greek's warehouse is located at Spa Terminus, which is a row of railway arches housing food producers, wholesalers, and wine importers. During this season, the fresh produce available at markets includes Sicilian citrus, Italian leafy greens, and French root vegetables. Rachel Sills, who sells cheese made in Switzerland and the Netherlands at a different location than Maltby & Greek, has prior experience exporting from Switzerland, which helped her navigate Brexit's trade rules. However, she is still facing additional costs due to the new requirements, such as Economic Operator's Registration and Identification numbers, customs agents for export and tax paperwork, and more detailed invoices with tariff codes for the four small cheese producers in the Netherlands she buys from, some of whom do not even have email addresses. Sills mentioned that she had covered the additional expenses for export clearances on behalf of the cheesemakers. Recently, she managed to consolidate the orders, resulting in a payment of only 65 euros ($74.50) for each invoice, in addition to her own import fees. She noted that up to this point, the cheesemakers had not started covering the actual costs of the export charges, as she had been the one paying for them. Sills pointed out that the paperwork and costs are not overly burdensome individually, but for companies with numerous suppliers, the cumulative costs can be exorbitant, especially when purchasing small quantities. According to trade policy expert David Henig in London, Brexit has ultimately resulted in additional costs for businesses. While there are no longer wild shortages, the customs systems are functioning, but the impact will be gradual and ongoing, similar to a "slow boiling frog." These extra costs are expected to negatively impact Britain's economy, with forecasts suggesting a long-term loss of approximately 4% of gross domestic product. Customers may experience fewer choices as a result, and the incentives for companies to invest in Britain are also decreasing. Franco Fubini, the founder of Natoora, stated that the company has become less focused on the U.K. compared to a few years ago. Natoora, originally based in London in 2004, now sources fresh produce from numerous small farms in Europe and North America for approximately 1,600 restaurants worldwide and retailers like Selfridges and Whole Foods, with establishments in the U.S. To streamline operations, Natoora shifted its processes so that its British division no longer directly imports from farms in Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. Instead, additional staff were hired in Paris and Milan to purchase the produce for the London office from those hubs in Europe. This consolidation has resulted in a single invoice, saving costs on transportation and customs. Despite finding a solution, Fubini mentioned that Brexit has negatively impacted Britain's global standing, prompting him to reassess his company's future. He stated that after 15 or 16 years, he began to question the level of investment in the U.K. when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new trade deal with the European Union on Christmas Eve 2020. Despite Johnson's belief that the agreement would facilitate more business with European partners, it has actually made it more difficult. Brexit was anticipated to eliminate Brussels bureaucracy but instead has introduced new complications for businesses. Even supporters of Brexit are frustrated by the slow realization of its promised benefits. Elena Deminska, who runs the fresh produce market at Spa Terminus, Puntarelle & Co, believes Brexit could provide British farmers with an opportunity to produce more food that is currently imported from the EU. The country's climate is suitable for growing bitter winter lettuce, broccoli raab, and apricots with some effort, according to Deminska. She criticizes farmers for not being adaptable and outsourced her customs work to an external company four years ago in anticipation of Brexit, but still finds the additional paperwork frustrating. She believes there is already too much paperwork and anticipates more obstacles for businesses in the future. Starting in July, food imports must be accompanied by health certificates signed by European Union inspectors and may be subject to random checks at the border. These new regulations will increase complexity and cost, causing disruption, according to Fubini. | 1 |
The European Union and the United States agreed that addressing global warming is a pressing issue. President George W Bush acknowledged the importance of convincing Russia about the necessity of a missile shield in Europe. During a White House summit, Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso reaffirmed their commitment to reaching a global trade agreement. They also continued to pressure Iran to abandon its nuclear weapons program. Merkel, on her first visit to Washington as the rotating EU president, emphasized the importance of addressing global climate change ahead of the Group of Eight summit in Germany in June. During a press conference held in the Rose Garden, the European representatives expressed their belief that progress had been achieved on the issue, even though no specific actions were identified for the EU and the United States to jointly tackle the problem. Barroso stated, "I am pleased to see progress being made in this meeting. We all acknowledge the existence of a significant global threat and the necessity to decrease emissions. It is agreed that collaboration between our nations is essential." Bush, who was criticized for being slow to acknowledge climate change as a problem, emphasized that any agreement between the United States and Europe would have limited impact without the involvement of developing countries like China. He argued that even if the US drastically reduced its greenhouse gas emissions, China could easily offset that reduction in a short amount of time. However, Merkel countered by asserting that developed countries must take the lead in reducing carbon emissions. She stated that if technologically advanced countries do not take action, it will be difficult to persuade others to do so, ultimately leading to a failure in reducing worldwide CO2 emissions. The leaders of the US and EU met amidst criticism from Russia regarding US plans to deploy a missile shield in Eastern Europe. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to take action against the system. President Bush mentioned that German Chancellor Angela Merkel had previously expressed concerns about the missile shield and suggested that he explain his vision to Putin. Bush sent Defense Secretary Robert Gates to Moscow to offer Russia the chance to be part of the shield, which is aimed at countering terrorism rather than restarting the Cold War. Bush stated that this dialogue aims to clarify intentions and show Russia that the US is not an enemy, but a friend. | 1 |
The revision of section six of the Church's Code of Canon Law, which has been in progress since 2009, is the most comprehensive update since Pope John Paul approved the current code in 1983. The purpose of the revision is to ensure that bishops adhere strictly to the law and to reduce the discretion of authorities in imposing penalties. The new section, which includes approximately 80 articles on crime and punishment, incorporates changes made to Church law since 1983 and introduces new categories. Monsignor Filippo Iannone, who led the project at the Vatican, noted that there had been a lenient approach to interpreting penal law, where mercy sometimes took precedence over justice. The categorization of sexual abuse of minors was changed to be included in a more specific section called "Offences Against Human Life, Dignity and Liberty" rather than the previous broad category of "Crimes Against Special Obligations." This updated section now covers additional offenses such as grooming minors or vulnerable adults for sexual abuse and possessing child pornography. | 1 |
A senior US diplomat stated on Monday that the Obama administration aims to expand on the US-India civilian nuclear power deal in order to collaborate with India on enhancing the global non-proliferation system. US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg emphasized that both countries have a responsibility to strengthen the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty system following the 2005 agreement that allowed India to import nuclear technology after a 33-year hiatus. Despite India not being a signatory to the NPT, Steinberg suggested that India has the potential to contribute to an international effort to address nuclear proliferation concerns. The Nuclear Suppliers Group recently agreed to lift a ban on nuclear trade with India, which was originally imposed due to India's nuclear testing in 1974 and its refusal to join the NPT. Washington faced significant opposition but ultimately succeeded in obtaining the NSG waiver to move forward with the nuclear cooperation pact, a crucial goal for the United States in terms of strategy, clean energy, environment, and commerce. India, Pakistan, and Israel are the only countries that have not signed the NPT. India's special envoy for nuclear and climate issues highlighted that the nuclear deal and NSG waiver have elevated India's status as a global nuclear partner. This agreement has opened up new possibilities for engagement on previously sensitive issues, according to envoy Shyam Saran. Steinberg emphasized the importance of addressing the challenge of bringing India and Pakistan into the NPT framework. It would be determined through discussions how Washington and New Delhi would collaborate on non-proliferation matters after the Obama administration appointed key officials and after India's general elections in April and May, he explained. | 1 |
The global credit crisis may actually accelerate efforts to develop 'green growth' industries by changing the financial system supporting them, according to the UN climate chief. Yvo de Boer emphasized the importance of governments assisting poor countries in addressing ecological issues rather than focusing solely on financial rescue efforts. Despite concerns that the financial turmoil could disrupt climate change discussions, de Boer sees potential for progress in environmental initiatives if the crisis prompts a shift towards green economic growth on a global scale. De Boer believes that the credit crunch presents an opportunity to rebuild the financial system in a way that supports sustainable growth. He suggests that governments should implement policies that encourage private competition to invest in clean industries. De Boer also emphasizes the importance of a successful outcome in climate change negotiations in Copenhagen in December 2009, as it would create new markets, investment opportunities, and job growth. However, he cautions against using global capital primarily to bail out the financial sector, as it would harm the most vulnerable populations. De Boer hopes that the credit crunch will not delay attention to developing countries in the South while countries in the North focus on repaying debts. De Boer stated that it would be challenging to make progress on the environmental agenda without providing support to developing countries. Environment ministers are set to meet in Poznan, Poland in two months to prepare for the Copenhagen summit, where a new global-warming agreement will be discussed to replace the Kyoto Protocol. Ministers need to demonstrate their commitment to providing financial resources and necessary infrastructure for developing countries to participate in global efforts for both mitigation and adaptation. De Boer suggested that funding could come from sources other than governments and mentioned the possibility of utilizing market mechanisms. He also noted that the financial crisis has not yet impacted the Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol, which allows wealthy countries to offset their carbon emissions by investing in clean energy projects in developing nations. | 1 |
Kamran Reza Chowdhury reports that the 16th summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation will begin on Wednesday in Thimphu, Bhutan, marking the organization's 25th anniversary since its establishment in Dhaka in 1985. Leaders from Afghanistan, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan are scheduled to speak at the opening session, which will be chaired by Bhutan's Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y Thinley. In addition to the Thimphu declaration, the summit will focus on climate change. Critics argue that despite 25 years of existence, SAARC has not made significant progress in reducing poverty and improving the lives of the region's 1.5 billion people. The general belief in the member countries of SAARC is that it is a platform for annual meetings of top leaders where they make ambitious promises but struggle to follow through. Bhutanese foreign secretary Daw Penjo stated that the summit allows South Asian leaders to have direct discussions without the presence of media and bureaucrats, leading to improved relations. He mentioned that the upcoming 16th SAARC summit will establish a 25-year plan based on the desires of the region's people. Additionally, SAARC foreign ministers have completed drafts of two agreements - one on environmental cooperation and the other on trade in services - for approval at the summit. The Thimphu declaration and Thimphu statement on climate change, the main focus of the 16th summit, were prepared by the council of ministers and the standing committee. Member states will announce a joint SAARC position on climate change, but the declaration will not include specific targets for emission cuts. Bangladesh proposed the inclusion of a SAARC charter for democracy in the declaration to promote democracy in all eight countries, according to foreign secretary Mohamed Mijarul Quayes. All heads of states and governments, except Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, have arrived in Thimphu, a picturesque hilly city, for the summit. Singh is expected to arrive Wednesday morning, just before the summit begins at 2.30 pm. The summit will also include the official opening of the SAARC Development Fund headquarters in Thimphu. | 1 |
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