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Leaders from the world's largest wealthy and developing nations will gather on Thursday to discuss strategies for supporting the economic recovery and creating protections against future disasters. US President Barack Obama, hosting his inaugural Group of 20 summit, has outlined an agenda that focuses on addressing the significant imbalances between major exporters like China and heavily indebted countries like the United States. Expectations for the summit's immediate impact are not high, as there is limited agreement on how to achieve goals such as establishing a more stable global economy and preventing risky banking practices that could lead to another financial crisis. The two-day meeting in Pittsburgh, a city that has faced economic challenges due to the decline of its steel industry, will begin with bilateral discussions on Thursday. Obama is hosting a reception and working dinner in the evening, marking the third gathering of the G20 leaders since a meeting held soon after the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008. This event was significant as it triggered a global recession, impacting even countries that had initially avoided the banking crisis. The world economy's interconnected nature was highlighted by the steep drop in global trade. As the recession seems to be coming to an end in many countries, the G20 must maintain the same level of urgency that was present in April when they agreed to collaborate in order to rescue the global economy. They also pledged a significant amount of money to support the International Monetary Fund's crisis-fighting efforts. Despite various distractions, it is vital for the G20 to stay focused on these important issues. Obama is dealing with challenges in domestic policy, particularly in reforming the U.S. healthcare system. Angela Merkel is also facing an upcoming election. US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner emphasized the need for the United States to increase its savings, indicating that countries relying on US consumption for their growth will need to find alternative sources. This lesson should be learned from the current crisis. However, some countries were hesitant to impose strict limits on trading imbalances and were resistant to the idea of outside interference in their domestic economic policies by organizations like the G20 or the International Monetary Fund. Geithner clarified that this was not the intention, but due to these concerns, it was unlikely that the G20 would agree on more than basic concepts for rebalancing during the upcoming week. To illustrate the severity of the issue, China's private consumption only makes up a small portion of its economy, while in the US and UK, consumption played a much larger role during prosperous times. In contrast, Chinese and Indian households saved a significant portion of their disposable incomes last year, whereas the US savings rate was much lower. Many European leaders were advocating for the G20 to focus more on restricting excessive pay and bonuses for bankers who made risky investments that failed. They also wanted to see the United States make more progress on addressing climate change, although little was expected to be achieved at the meeting. The United States has limited time to implement concrete policies before an international conference on reducing global warming in Copenhagen in December. Emerging economies like Brazil, which were affected by the financial crisis despite having limited exposure to bad assets, were eager to establish stricter regulatory rules at the G20. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva criticized economic models that lacked regulation, calling them outdated and ineffective. | 1 |
A Japanese official from the ministry stated that Japan will urge for a prompt resolution to the ongoing conflict with China regarding disputed gas fields during upcoming discussions between foreign ministers in Beijing. Despite recent improvements in relations between the two countries, particularly highlighted by a significant visit by a Chinese warship to Tokyo, the issue of developing natural gas in the East China Sea remains unresolved. The official expressed hope that China will make a decisive decision to reach a final agreement on the matter, emphasizing the importance of finding a solution. Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura is expected to address this issue during talks with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Saturday. Following the upcoming talks on macroeconomic policies and Beijing's currency reforms, discussions will also cover climate change, trade, and investment. Despite the lack of progress in the 11th round of talks regarding natural gas development in the East China Sea, Japan's Prime Minister's visit to China may be affected, according to Japan's top government spokesman. However, China quickly refuted this claim. The Japanese official clarified that resolving the gas dispute was not a prerequisite for the visit, which could take place later this year or in early 2008. It was mentioned that previous leaders had agreed to report on a compromise in the autumn. "This is the moment for us to speed up our efforts," he stated. "It is not just about the economic consequences, but also about Japanese public perception." Both parties are keen to ensure new oil and gas sources but have conflicting views on the location of the maritime border that divides their respective exclusive economic zones. China's state-owned CNOOC Ltd announced in April that it had started gas production from Tianwaitian field and was preparing to produce from the larger Chunxiao field in the region, causing concerns in Japan that this production could drain gas from what Tokyo considers its side of the zone. | 1 |
President Barack Obama expressed his disapproval of WikiLeaks' actions to Turkish and Mexican leaders on Saturday. The US administration was working to control the damage caused by the release of secret US cables by the website. In separate calls with Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan and Mexican President Felipe Calderon, Obama, Erdogan, and Calderon agreed that the WikiLeaks' campaign would not negatively impact their countries' relationships with Washington, as stated by the White House. The leaked documents have caused tension with allies around the world, prompting US officials to try to prevent foreign partners from backing away from sensitive matters. The documents concerning Turkey showed US diplomats questioning the reliability of their NATO ally and depicting its leadership as divided. During Obama's call with Erdogan, they discussed the importance of the US-Turkish partnership and their commitment to working together on various issues. The president expressed his regrets for WikiLeaks' deplorable actions and both leaders agreed it would not affect the close cooperation between the United States and Turkey. Obama also praised Calderon for the outcome of an international climate change conference in Cancun. The importance of the US-Mexico partnership across various issues was highlighted by both presidents, who also discussed the irresponsible actions of WikiLeaks and agreed it should not detract from their cooperation. State Department documents released by WikiLeaks revealed a Mexican official's concerns about the government losing control to drug cartels. | 1 |
Italy is one of Bangladesh's largest trading partners, with over 200,000 Bangladeshis living in the country. Despite more than 40 years of diplomatic ties, the two countries have never held a bilateral meeting. However, Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Mario Giro is scheduled to visit Bangladesh for a meeting with his counterpart Md Shahriar Alam. This visit is seen as a new beginning in the relations between the two countries, which are described as smooth, growing, and expanding. This effort is part of Bangladesh's broader strategy to strengthen relations with friendly countries, as evidenced by upcoming bilateral meetings with New Zealand and Portugal. The visit is significant as it marks the first time Italy's foreign minister will hold a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh. A senior official at the foreign ministry, speaking anonymously to bdnews24.com, stated that the focus now is on increasing bilateral talks, which have been receiving a positive response. The official mentioned that a wide range of bilateral issues will be addressed during the meetings. Bangladesh's exports to Italy exceeded $1.3 billion in the last fiscal year, marking a 30 percent increase from the previous year. Dhaka and Rome have similar stances on various international matters such as counter terrorism and climate change. The Prime Minister attended the Asia-Europe Meeting held in Italy in October last year. Her Italian counterpart has invited her to visit Italy again during the upcoming 'Expo Milano' from May 1 to October 31, which is set to be the largest show in the world. The official also mentioned that the Prime Minister has extended an invitation to her Italian counterpart, indicating that the relationship between the two countries is on an upward trajectory. | 1 |
Leaders from around the world worked late into the night in an effort to reach an agreement on reducing emissions and providing support for poorer countries affected by climate change before the Friday deadline. The United States helped break the deadlock by proposing a $100 billion climate fund to assist developing nations with adapting their economies and addressing challenges such as crop failures and water shortages. Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen reported that a group of key leaders engaged in productive discussions overnight to resolve issues in the climate negotiations. Prior to the final push, concerns were raised about the possibility of failure, but a gala dinner hosted by Denmark's Queen Margrethe for 120 world leaders at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen marked the beginning of the decisive phase. French President Nicolas Sarkozy stated that time is working against us and suggested that it is time to stop pretending. He emphasized the importance of success in Copenhagen, warning that failure would have catastrophic consequences for everyone. Police reported that 28 people were arrested in connection with a Greenpeace protest near the palace, with three managing to evade security and enter the premises. Activists arrived ahead of U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in a motorcade and walked down the red carpet holding signs that criticized politicians for talking without taking action. U.S. President Barack Obama is expected to face pressure to commit to deeper emissions cuts during his upcoming visit, as the United States is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso expressed high expectations for an announcement during the upcoming climate summit. He emphasized that President Obama's visit is not just to repeat what is already in their draft legislation, especially regarding a climate bill pending approval in the U.S. Senate. Obama is scheduled to meet with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao during the summit, where officials anticipate progress on unresolved issues between the United States and China. While there has been advancement on monitoring, reporting, and verification requirements for emissions reductions by China and other major developing nations, it is uncertain if a deal will be reached once Obama arrives. China has not agreed to these demands. The United States has made a pledge to support a $100 billion a year fund for poor nations starting in 2020, which would exceed current aid levels to these nations. This commitment aligns with the requests made by African nations. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed optimism about the U.S. pledge, while a U.S. official indicated that President Obama is not expected to provide more details on U.S. funding commitments. An agreement on financing is just one piece of the puzzle that includes various other measures like protecting rainforests, increasing carbon markets, and strengthening global carbon emission regulations. German Chancellor Angela Merkel believes that if everyone does a little more, progress can be made. The European Union is open to doing more but not on its own. However, any agreement must be reached unanimously. Some small island nations and African countries, which are most at risk from climate change, insist on a strong deal and will not settle for a weak one. "We are discussing the importance of preserving our country," stated Prime Minister Apisai Ielemia of Tuvalu, a Pacific island nation, regarding the ongoing talks that started in Bali, Indonesia two years ago. The proposed agreements in the negotiations include targets such as reducing global greenhouse gas emissions by half by 2050 and requiring developed countries to decrease their emissions by 25 to 40 percent by 2020. Kim Carstensen, leader of the WWF environmental organization's global climate initiative, expressed optimism about reaching a compromise, especially with the financial support offered by the U.S. On Thursday, the likelihood of a strong U.N. climate agreement seemed unlikely as countries pointed fingers at major emitters like China and the U.S. for the deadlock on carbon reduction efforts. Ministers and leaders emphasized the need for renewed urgency, stating that the outcome of Copenhagen is crucial and cannot be allowed to fail, according to China's climate change ambassador Yu Qingtai. | 1 |
Researchers are warning that Australia's mining boom is contributing to a significant increase in HIV infections among wealthy heterosexual miners and businessmen in resource-rich states who travel to Asia for holidays. According to a recent national HIV-AIDS report, rates of HIV infections in Australia have risen by nearly 50 percent over the past eight years. The report, released by the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, stated that in 2007 alone, Australia saw 27,331 cases of HIV infection and 10,230 cases of AIDS. While homosexual men continue to make up the majority of new infections, there is also a significant number of new infections among heterosexual men in states like Western Australia and Queensland, where mining is prevalent. Many miners work extended shifts away from home, followed by time off, and some are choosing to spend their downtime in Asia engaging in risky behavior. According to Don Baxter, executive director of the Australian Federation of AIDS, a notable number of new infections are occurring among wealthy heterosexual men from resource-rich states who are vacationing in Asia and engaging in unprotected sex. Baxter noted that men from Western Australia are likely visiting Southeast Asian countries, while those from Queensland are visiting Papua New Guinea, where there is a growing concern about an HIV-AIDS epidemic. Baxter also mentioned that there has been a significant increase in infections among heterosexual males in Western Australia, nearly equaling the number of infections among gay men in the same region in 2007. Baxter mentioned that the Western Australia state government and AIDS council were collaborating with mining companies to introduce safe sex education programs for miners. Health officials reported on Wednesday that a group of men in Cairns, Queensland had contracted HIV after having unprotected sex with women in Papua New Guinea, which is located north of Queensland. The Cairns Sexual Health Service confirmed that six businessmen between the ages of 47 and 66 had tested positive for HIV in the last 10 months. Dr. Darren Russell, the director of the Cairns Sexual Health Service, warned that this small cluster of cases could be just the beginning of a larger outbreak, indicating a more widespread HIV epidemic in Papua New Guinea which could put these men at greater risk. He expressed concern that the number of cases would continue to rise in this environment. Australia's AIDS federation has urged the government to boost funding for AIDS prevention programs in order to address the increasing rate of infections. The state of New South Wales, which has a large homosexual population in Sydney, has seen little change in infection rates over the past ten years due to consistent funding for safe sex programs. On the other hand, states like Victoria and Queensland, which have reduced funding, have experienced significant increases in infection rates. Baxter emphasized the importance of investing in these programs to at least stabilize the rate of HIV infections. | 1 |
Barack Obama is embarking on his first trip to Asia as president this week, acknowledging the region's significance in terms of economics and diplomacy for the United States. The trip will include attending an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Singapore, but the most crucial part will be in China. Obama recognizes China as both a crucial partner and a competitor, stressing the importance of maintaining a friendly competition within established international rules. Ben Rhodes, a deputy national security adviser, stated that America is a Pacific nation and recognizes the importance of Asia in the 21st century. The United States will be actively involved in addressing various critical issues for prosperity and security during President Obama's visits to Japan, South Korea, and China. These issues include North Korea, Iran, the global economy and trade, climate change, energy, human rights, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. President Obama will also discuss his perspective on U.S. engagement with Asia during his visit to Tokyo. In China, he will meet with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao. The purpose of the trip is to emphasize that the United States is actively involved in Asia, shifting focus from Islamic militancy. However, Obama's attention is currently on domestic issues such as healthcare reform, unemployment, and the decision on troop deployment in Afghanistan, which may hinder progress on climate change and trade agreements during his trip. Opposition from U.S. groups, including businesses concerned about climate change regulations and labor unions worried about job losses from free trade agreements, may deter Obama from pursuing deals such as a free trade pact with South Korea. Despite this, the administration has indicated that they will revisit trade negotiations in the future. He expressed uncertainty about whether Asian leaders believe that. Despite Obama's high popularity ratings in the countries he is visiting, achieving concrete results may not be the main goal. Analysts and administration officials emphasize that Obama has only been in office since January and view this trip as primarily setting the stage for future cooperation. They note that President Obama is highly esteemed in all the countries he is visiting. Jeffrey Bader, senior director for East Asian affairs at the National Security Council, mentioned that he has not viewed the most recent polls but the numbers he is aware of are significant. He stated that when a person is highly respected and admired, their message is more likely to be impactful compared to someone with a low approval rating. | 1 |
In Atlantic, Iowa, Democratic Senator Barack Obama defended his foreign policy experience, accusing Senator Hillary Clinton and other opponents of portraying typical Washington practices as valuable experience. Despite facing criticism for his perceived lack of experience, a CBS poll shows that Obama is seen as the candidate with innovative ideas, while Clinton holds a 20-point lead due to her perceived experience. Clinton has criticized Obama for his willingness to engage with hostile nations, support strikes in Pakistan, and oppose nuclear weapons in such attacks. Obama believes that Clinton and other candidates are simply following traditional expectations rather than offering genuinely new ideas. During a five-day tour of Iowa, Obama expressed his belief that many of his opponents, including Senator Clinton, rely on reciting the traditional beliefs in Washington to demonstrate their experience. He argued that this approach to foreign policy was responsible for the Iraq war and needs to be changed. In response, the Clinton campaign defended her track record of fighting for change and her ability to bring about change in 2009. Obama emphasized the need for a new administration to move away from traditional thinking that fosters a climate of fear. He criticized the current administration for obfuscating and playing on the fears of the American people in foreign policy. Obama also highlighted his commitment to not using nuclear weapons in attacks on al Qaeda targets in Pakistan. In contrast, Clinton has emphasized the importance of nuclear deterrence in maintaining peace. Obama stated that numerous military experts have assured him that nuclear weapons would not be utilized in a potential attack on a terrorist group in Pakistan. He emphasized that in such a scenario, conventional weapons would be used instead. Despite criticism of his perceived lack of experience, Obama received enthusiastic support and standing ovations in Council Bluffs and Atlantic for his message of change. He stated that when individuals mention experience, they are essentially asking about one's ability to make good decisions. Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney may have had extensive experience, but they lacked good judgment in their foreign policy decisions. One of his strengths is his ability to exercise good judgment. | 1 |
Their first encounter in Cleveland was not characterized by any of those words. Trump, who had been criticized for being overly aggressive in the previous debate, arrived in a more restrained manner in an attempt to revitalize his struggling campaign. However, his subdued performance was unlikely to significantly change the course of the race, which has remained unaffected by major world events. Here are six key points to take away from the final 2020 presidential debate, where they actually engaged in a debate. After the chaotic first debate, the debate commission introduced a mute feature for the opening statements of both candidates in each segment, which proved to be helpful. Trump restrained himself from interrupting as much and refrained from directly discussing Hunter Biden's military exit. He even complimented the debate moderator, Kristen Welker, for her control over the proceedings. The absence of cross-talk enabled viewers to better distinguish the contrasting views of the candidates on various important issues such as the pandemic, climate change, systemic racism, economic recovery, federal spending, and healthcare. Trump's advisers believe that he needs the election to clearly be a choice between himself and Biden. However, the contrasts between the two candidates only became apparent in the final debate after Trump's aggressive behavior in the first debate and his COVID-19 diagnosis leading to the cancellation of the second debate. With Trump trailing in the polls and over 48 million Americans having already voted, he still lacked a strong response to the pandemic. In contrast, Biden, who wore a mask on stage, immediately addressed the issue of COVID-19, which has claimed the lives of over 220,000 Americans. Biden expressed his belief that someone responsible for the high number of deaths in the United States should not continue as president. This sentiment was similar to what Sen. Kamala Harris had stated at the beginning of the vice presidential debate, and neither Trump nor Vice President Mike Pence had adequate responses. Trump mentioned that models had projected up to 2.2 million deaths if no action was taken, highlighting that it is a global pandemic and pointing out the decreasing mortality rates. He also claimed that the situation is improving and that the pandemic is subsiding. Hospitalizations and cases are increasing. Trump attempted to use his own hospitalization due to the virus during the first debate as a reason for the cancellation of the second debate. He stated, "I learned a lot. I learned a lot." However, he spent part of the week before the debate criticizing the nation's top infectious disease specialist, Dr. Anthony Fauci. Biden stated his plan to end the virus, emphasizing his determination to do so. Despite previous claims that Trump was untouchable, it is actually Biden who has maintained strong approval ratings and front-runner status. Throughout the race, Biden has brushed off Trump's accusations of extremism with a casual shrug and a question of whether he looks like a radical socialist. "I am the party," he stated during the initial debate. On Thursday, Trump continuously tried to connect Biden with Harris' stance on health care during the primary, associating him with "AOC plus three" and attempting to link him to Sen. Bernie Sanders on health care as well. In response, Biden used his "Come on, man!" tactic once more. "He's very confused," Biden commented. "He believes he's running against someone else." He is currently competing against Joe Biden. The Democratic candidate addressed viewers directly, asking them to trust their own opinions about him after serving as vice president for eight years. He emphasized the differences in character between himself and his opponent. Biden continues to believe in himself and remains confident in the face of Trump's criticisms. This strategy has proven successful thus far. Trump finally delivered the punch that many Republicans had been anticipating, criticizing Biden for his long career in politics and lack of action on promised changes. Trump repeatedly questioned why Biden had not accomplished more in his nearly half-century in Washington, calling him "all talk, no action." Biden struggled to effectively rebut Trump's attacks during the debate. He went as far as to distance himself from President Barack Obama regarding their failure to pass an immigration overhaul, stating that it was a mistake and took too long to get it right. Dave Kochel, a Republican strategist, mentioned that the criticism of "why didn't you do it" was strong. Despite his occasional prosecution of this case, Trump demonstrated during the first debate that he could stand next to Biden and argue his point. However, his ability to campaign as an outsider has diminished now that he is a politician and an incumbent with unfulfilled promises. Trump criticized Biden by saying, "I ran because of you." However, he also struggled to connect with viewers during the debate by making references to obscure internet controversies and events that likely went over the heads of many viewers. Trump's comments lacked context, such as indirect jabs at the governor of Michigan's husband and the Obama administration. He also attacked the Biden family's business dealings without providing clear explanations. Trump's statements seemed disconnected from the average American viewer's understanding. Biden did not seem to respond to Trump's continuous use of out-of-context references, particularly regarding Hunter Biden. Trump claimed that the recent revelations made the situation even worse, referring to the emails and accusing Biden of receiving a large amount of money. However, the discussion ended without a clear resolution or impactful moment. It served as a reminder of the contrast between running against Biden and running against Hillary Clinton. Trump had previously benefited from years of negative attacks on Clinton that had influenced voters, which is not the case with Biden. Democratic strategist Meredith Kelly noted that Trump focused on right-wing theories to appeal to his base without trying to persuade others. Despite this, the candidates had significant disagreements, particularly regarding how much of the economy and schools should be closed to combat the virus. Trump strongly pushed for quickly reopening as much as possible, while Biden argued that it should only be done when it is truly safe. Trump mentioned his own hospitalization and recovery as evidence that we are adapting to living with the virus, to which Biden responded incredulously, "Learning to live with it? Come on." Trump criticized Biden for mostly campaigning from home and mocked the Plexiglas dividers in restaurants, while Biden emphasized the importance of public health and warned of a "dark winter" ahead. The candidates had civil disagreements on health care and the environment. Biden stated his intention to move the country away from the oil industry and eliminate federal subsidies, prompting a strong reaction from Trump. Progressives applauded the statement, but Democrats in energy-dependent states like Oklahoma and New Mexico distanced themselves from it. Republican strategist Colin Reed called the debate a draw. He stated that both candidates were ready in their demeanor and content. Biden just needed to maintain his momentum, while Trump needed to make a significant impact. | 1 |
However, their diplomatic efforts at a scaled-down UN General Assembly were overshadowed and complicated by the lasting impact of President Donald J. Trump. Biden worked to repair strained relations with France by speaking with President Emmanuel Macron and by having Blinken meet with his French counterpart in New York. French officials criticized the Biden administration for not informing them about a deal with Britain and Australia that affected a submarine contract. President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran suggested during a speech to the global body that there was little difference between Biden and Trump, mentioning their foreign policy slogans. In response to Biden's goals to reduce global carbon emissions, an editorial in Beijing's Global Times newspaper raised concerns about the potential for a Republican administration in the future to reverse these promises, echoing similar sentiments expressed by the Iranians regarding a potential return to the 2015 nuclear deal. During a news conference to conclude a week of diplomacy, Blinken provided a positive evaluation. He mentioned that US officials had engaged with representatives from over 60 countries and highlighted American leadership on climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. When asked about recent criticisms of US foreign policy, including the Afghanistan withdrawal, stalled nuclear negotiations with Iran, and diplomatic tensions in Paris, the secretary of state stated that he had not personally heard such complaints during his time in New York that week. Blinken expressed that the feedback he had received in response to the president's speech and the direction of the country was overwhelmingly positive and supportive of the United States. This statement was made as he prepared to leave a weeklong diplomatic gathering that cautiously resumed in-person meetings after last year's virtual UN event due to the coronavirus pandemic. Many world leaders did not attend this year's meeting, such as the presidents of Russia, China, and Iran. This lack of presence eliminated the possibility of any potential spontaneous encounters between the President of the United States and a foreign adversary, as had occurred in previous sessions. Biden's time at the event was brief, as he left shortly after giving his address on Tuesday. During his speech, he highlighted how America's withdrawal from Afghanistan marked the end of 20 years of war following the events of September 11, 2001. He also emphasized the United States' commitment to a new era of collaborative diplomacy in addressing global issues such as climate change, the coronavirus pandemic, and the rise of authoritarianism. The speech was a significant tribute to global cooperation and stood out in comparison to Trump's lack of diplomacy. However, criticism has been mounting that some of Biden's key policy decisions resemble Trump's tactics. French officials were surprised by the US submarine agreement with Australia, leaving Biden officials without a clear response. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian expressed frustration, likening the decision to Trump's behavior. This was not something that should happen between allies. The tension had decreased somewhat by Thursday, following Biden's conversation with Macron and Blinken's meeting with Le Drian. However, the French diplomat's comments indicated that the issue had not been completely resolved. "Resolving the current crisis will be a lengthy process and will require significant effort," he stated. The incident with France could have been seen as an isolated incident if it didn't remind some NATO allies of similar complaints they had about Biden's handling of the withdrawal from Afghanistan, where they felt they were not consulted properly or informed of the timeline. Trump was known for surprising allies with sudden and independent decisions. Blinken argued that he consulted with NATO officials in the spring to hear their perspectives on Afghanistan, however, officials from Germany, Britain, and other countries claimed that their advice for a slower withdrawal was not heeded. Biden supporters believe that comparisons between Trump and Biden are exaggerated, but some acknowledge the legitimate global concerns about the possibility of Trump, or someone like him, undoing Biden's efforts. Loren DeJonge Schulman, a former member of the National Security Council and the Pentagon under the Obama administration, stated that it is preposterous to suggest any continuity between Trump and Biden in terms of their views on allies, international negotiations, or national security. However, Schulman acknowledged that other countries have valid concerns about how the Biden administration, in the aftermath of the Trump era, can uphold sustainable international commitments such as a potential nuclear deal with Tehran and bolster public support for foreign alliances. DeJonge Schulman, an adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, stated that trust cannot be the only factor considered. Both allies and adversaries see similarities between Biden and Trump, with the Global Times suggesting that Biden's China policies are very similar to Trump's. Biden has continued some of Trump's trade tariffs, which Democrats criticized before Biden took office but now see as leverage in negotiations with China. Iranian officials are also unhappy that Biden has not removed the economic sanctions imposed by Trump after withdrawing from the nuclear deal. In the early days of Biden's presidency, some European allies suggested lifting certain restrictions to restart nuclear talks, but Biden officials rejected the idea. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently criticized the Biden administration for demanding similar things on the nuclear issue as Trump. Now, with a new hard-line government in Tehran and a pause in negotiations, Biden officials are warning Iran that time is running out to return to the nuclear agreement. Criticisms of Biden's team are growing, especially after a US military drone strike in Kabul resulted in civilian casualties. Some Biden officials acknowledge that diplomacy has been challenging due to the retirement of many experienced Foreign Service officers during the Trump administration. Senator Ted Cruz from Texas has hindered the confirmation of numerous Biden nominees for State Department positions and ambassadorships. Biden is facing comparisons to Trump in various areas, such as immigration, prompting questions about how he differs from his predecessor. Marisa Franco, executive director of Mijente, a Latino civil rights organization, highlighted this issue in a recent interview with The New York Times. | 1 |
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A group of rapidly growing carbon emitters, considered crucial to reaching a global agreement on climate change, is now open to discussing the future of the Kyoto Protocol in order to gain the support of the United States. The Kyoto Protocol currently requires around 40 wealthy nations to reduce emissions by 2008-2012, and developing countries are pushing for a stronger second commitment period. However, many developed nations are against this demand and want to replace Kyoto with a new agreement that includes emerging markets like India and China. The upcoming meeting of the environment ministers from Brazil, South Africa, India, and China - known as the BASIC nations - will focus on building trust with wealthy nations, according to the agenda obtained by Reuters. The question remains: How much longer will the Kyoto Protocol remain in effect? The agenda for the upcoming meeting in South Africa on April 25-26 includes discussing the possibility of a shorter second commitment period focused on securing carbon markets. Another topic on the agenda is considering what would replace the Kyoto Protocol if there is no second commitment period. Negotiations for a global deal to combat climate change have been hindered by a lack of trust between wealthier and less affluent nations regarding their respective responsibilities. Officials are not very optimistic about a comprehensive agreement in Mexico in November. Therefore, if the BASIC nations are willing to compromise on the Kyoto Protocol, it could help move negotiations forward and bring the United States, which never ratified the protocol, on board. According to an Indian negotiator, the agenda is practical and focused on exploring all possibilities for a beneficial agreement. The BASIC meeting will also consider incorporating elements of the Copenhagen Accord, a non-binding agreement aimed at limiting global warming to under 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and providing $100 billion in aid by 2020, into the current negotiation process. The text discusses the steps taken by numerous countries, including major greenhouse gas emitters, to reduce their emissions by 2020. The original goal of the Copenhagen conference was to establish a global agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol. The upcoming South Africa meeting will address the potential expansion of the BASIC bloc and the usefulness of groups like the G20 and Major Economies Forum for negotiations. Developing nations are pushing for dual-track negotiations, one focusing on a Kyoto successor starting in 2013 and the other on long-term climate change actions for all countries. | 1 |
The unity, solidarity, and global reputation of the EU are in jeopardy due to various factors such as Greece's debt, Russia's involvement in Ukraine, Britain's desire to alter its relationship with the bloc, and migration in the Mediterranean. Failing to address any of these issues adequately would worsen the situation, increasing the dangers facing the EU. The immediate threat is Greece's potential default and the possibility of leaving the shared euro currency, known as 'Grexit', which challenges the concept of a closer union among European states and people. According to analysts Fabian Zuleeg and Janis Emmanouilidis from the European Policy Centre think-tank, the long-term effects of Grexit would have a significant impact on the EU as a whole, setting a precedent and further weakening the EU's fundamental purpose. Even though Greece only makes up a small portion of the euro zone's economy and population, its bankruptcy following two bailouts totaling nearly 200 billion euros is a significant blow to the EU's reputation. The atmosphere in Brussels was tense even before the results of the Greek referendum were revealed, with various groups pointing fingers and offering different explanations for the crisis. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Greece's future, it has already demonstrated that the idea of an unbreakable eurozone is flawed. Some partners may now try to strengthen ties among remaining members to prevent similar crises in the future, but opposition from Germany may hinder efforts to issue joint government bonds. The Greek situation will serve as a cautionary tale for markets in the event of future economic challenges within the euro zone. Destabilizing Greece's economy could worsen all three of Europe's other crises and unsettle the fragile southern Balkans, in addition to causing suffering and financial losses for European taxpayers. With existing tension in the eastern Mediterranean due to various conflicts and disputes, a collapsed Greece might seek assistance from Russia and potentially disrupt EU sanctions against Moscow. The influx of refugees from other conflicts is already straining Greece's resources, as authorities are eager for them to move on to seek asylum in other EU countries. It is easy to envision a scenario where a government kicked out of the euro zone leverages migrants to increase pressure on EU countries. The controversial "boat people" crisis has created rifts within the EU, with Italy and other frontline nations criticizing their northern and eastern counterparts for lack of solidarity in sharing the burden of refugees. Britain has also declined to participate. The failure to find a resolution to Greece's debt crisis after five years has weakened the EU's image in the eyes of global leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Brussels officials admit that the euro zone crisis has led to a resurgence of national decision-making and diminished the influence of Europe's model of rules-based supranational governance. The EU's position in global trade and climate change negotiations has been undermined by Brexit, and there are concerns that it may face further challenges. Britain's plans to renegotiate its membership terms and hold a referendum by 2017 could result in the EU losing a significant economy, financial center, and military power. Despite polls indicating majority support for remaining in the EU and relief that Prime Minister David Cameron's renegotiation agenda is realistic, there is anxiety in Brussels following the unpredicted outcome of the May general election in the UK. After winning the election, Cameron has faced opposition from Eurosceptic members of his Conservative party. The ongoing Greek economic crisis, whether it remains in the euro zone or not, could support the argument that the UK is too closely tied to a failing system. Russia's historical animosity towards Britain, as seen in Moscow viewing the UK as a staunch ally of the US, would likely be pleased by the possibility of the UK leaving the EU. This could undermine efforts within the EU to confront Russian aggression in Ukraine and Georgia, as well as weaken the relationship between the UK and the EU, while still maintaining membership in NATO. This situation could give Putin an advantage in negotiations with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has been instrumental in European efforts to stabilize Ukraine. Rem Korteweg from the Centre for European Reform draws a comparison between the current crises facing the EU and the four horsemen of the apocalypse from the Book of Revelation. He describes these crises as representing conquest, war, famine, and death, and warns that EU leaders will struggle to control them. Korteweg emphasizes the need for a unified European response to prevent further chaos, instability, and conflict within the EU. | 1 |
The leader of the opposition and incoming prime minister, Anthony Albanese, was congratulated by Morrison on his election victory. Morrison announced he was stepping down as leader of his party. Albanese emphasized the importance of unity in the nation and expressed his intention to lead that effort. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg acknowledged the challenge of winning in Kooyong and potentially being voted out of parliament. Albanese, a pragmatic leader from a working-class background, has promised to unite the country and end divisions. The Parliament consists of the House of Representatives, which has 151 seats. A majority of 76 seats is needed to form a government. Labor had 72 seats, the coalition had 52, while independents and the Greens held 11 seats, with 55% of the vote counted. The Australian Broadcasting Corp projected that a further 16 seats were still undecided. In the Senate, there are 76 seats, with 12 for each of the six states and two for each of the two territories. There are a total of 40 Senate seats up for election: six from each state and the four territory seats. Economic challenges await the winner, including high inflation rates, increasing interest rates, and looming budget deficits from pandemic spending. However, unemployment is at its lowest in nearly 50 years and global prices for Australian commodities are high. When it comes to climate change, the major parties face a difficult path as people want action but are hesitant to pay for it. Retail power prices are also a factor in this election where the cost of living is a central issue. Foreign policy unexpectedly became a focus during the election campaign when Morrison emphasized his national security experience and criticized Labor's capabilities, but his stance was weakened when the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with China. Morrison admitted to being too forceful in his leadership style and promised a shift, while Albanese presented himself as an alternative with a focus on his working-class background and practical approach. | 1 |
The chief of the UN climate change called on governments to take concrete steps towards a new treaty to combat global warming, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize ongoing negotiations. Representatives are currently meeting in Tianjin to discuss the future of the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. The talks have been marred by distrust between wealthy and developing nations regarding climate funds, calls for more transparency in emissions reduction commitments, and dissatisfaction with the level of cuts proposed by wealthier countries. Failure to reach an agreement promptly would leave less time to address greenhouse gas emissions and create uncertainty for businesses regarding future climate policies and carbon markets post-2012. Figueres stressed the importance of finding common ground quickly during the Tianjin talks. The negotiations taking place are the final major discussions before the main climate conference in Cancun, Mexico in November. Nearly 200 government negotiators were unable to reach an agreement on a new legally binding climate treaty last year. The meeting in Copenhagen in 2009 resulted in disagreements between wealthy and developing countries, leading to a non-binding agreement with many unresolved issues. Governments are working to build trust and finalize a binding text from a complex draft treaty, possibly by late 2011. A successful outcome in Cancun is crucial to restore confidence in the process and prevent it from appearing never-ending, according to a speaker at the meeting. According to Wendel Trio, the recent devastating floods in Pakistan and severe drought in Russia are examples of extreme weather events that could worsen due to rising temperatures if countries do not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Trio, who is the climate policy coordinator for Greenpeace, emphasized the importance of developed countries demonstrating commitment to the pledges made in Copenhagen in order to build trust among nations. Meanwhile, Christiana Figueres, speaking in a separate interview, expressed hope that the Tianjin talks could reach agreements on various aspects of a future climate pact, such as managing adaptation funds and green technology for poorer countries, as well as supporting carbon-absorbing forests in Brazil, Indonesia, and other locations. She also mentioned the possibility of creating a climate fund to help developing nations transition to greener economies, although determining the sources of funding for such a fund may take some time to agree upon. Even if negotiations progress, current government commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will not be sufficient to prevent the world from experiencing dangerous global warming, defined as a 2-degree Celsius increase from pre-industrial temperatures, according to Figueres. She stated that these commitments are not enough to ensure even a 2-degree temperature rise, which is not enough to protect the most vulnerable countries. Figueres emphasized the importance of governments securing formal pledges for the emissions cuts already proposed, acknowledging that this is a necessary but insufficient first step. | 1 |
Several women disrupted Philip Hammond's speech at an annual banquet in London's Mansion House by shouting slogans through loudspeakers. Foreign office minister Mark Field was seen on video grabbing one of the women by the back of her neck and escorting her out of the room. He later apologized, but Prime Minister Theresa May's spokeswoman announced on Friday that Field has been suspended pending an investigation. Field explained to ITV that his actions were motivated by concerns for security. "In the current situation, I believed it was necessary to take quick action to eliminate the threat to the safety of those present," he stated. His office did not respond to a request for comment from Reuters. Tory MP for Cities of London & Westminster @MarkFieldUK was seen grabbing a Greenpeace protester who disrupted a Philip Hammond speech in London. The Labour Party's spokeswoman for women and equalities Dawn Butler called for Field to be suspended or fired immediately, calling the incident "horrific." Greenpeace organized the protest in London's financial district, accusing the finance industry of funding climate change and the finance ministry of trying to weaken government efforts to address it. Rebecca Newsom, Head of Politics at Greenpeace UK, expressed disapproval of Field's reaction to the demonstrator, calling it violent and concerning. The City of London Corporation is reevaluating its security measures following the incident at Mansion House on Thursday. | 1 |
Nobel Peace Prize winner Al Gore is calling on governments to accelerate the development of a new treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, suggesting that it be finalized by 2009 instead of waiting until the Kyoto pact expires in 2012. Gore emphasized the importance of not delaying action on a stronger treaty during his visit to Oslo to receive the Nobel prize, which he shares with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for their efforts to address climate change. Gore plans to continue advocating for an earlier treaty at the upcoming UN climate conference in Bali. The main UN climate agreement, the 1997 Kyoto protocol, was not accepted by the United States due to concerns about cost and the exclusion of developing nations from emissions cuts. Al Gore, speaking at Oslo airport, expressed the belief that the US should be leading the effort to address climate change and noted positive developments, such as cities and states adopting Kyoto provisions and business leaders calling for emissions reductions. Gore also emphasized the importance of individual choices, such as taking public transportation, in helping the environment. In 2006, Gore was mocked for arriving in a limousine at the Cannes film festival where his Oscar-winning film "An Inconvenient Truth" was being shown. The film emphasizes the need for immediate action to combat climate change. | 1 |
Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Danny Russel explained to Reuters on Tuesday that increasing the dosage of sanctions, similar to adjusting a medicine regimen, may be necessary when the desired effects are not achieved. Russel mentioned the potential for new sanctions from the UN Security Council, the United States, or a coalition of countries from the European Union and Southeast Asia, in response to North Korea's recent nuclear tests and missile launches. It is believed that North Korea may conduct another nuclear test soon, possibly before a ruling party congress in early May. A study by South Korea's Korea Institute for National Unification estimated that there could be as many as 150,000 North Korean workers abroad, mainly in China and Russia, who send back up to $900 million annually. North Koreans are known for working overseas in various fields such as restaurants, construction, and as doctors. The success of current or potential new sanctions relies heavily on China, North Korea's neighboring country and largest trading partner, fully enforcing them. US officials and analysts emphasize the importance of China's cooperation in implementing effective sanctions. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying urged all parties to avoid escalating tensions and to maintain calm and restraint to facilitate the resumption of talks. When asked about the possibility of supporting tougher sanctions in response to a potential fifth nuclear test by North Korea, Hua Chunying declined to answer, calling it a hypothetical question. In the event of another nuclear test, the United States, South Korea, and Japan may consider taking unspecified defense-related actions, according to officials. He mentioned that as the threat increases, our defensive capabilities should also adapt. He emphasized the possibility of diplomatic negotiations to address North Korea's nuclear program. South Korean Unification Ministry spokesman Jeong Joon-hee expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of engaging with North Korea and suggested focusing more on imposing sanctions. Russel outlined potential responses to a fifth nuclear test by North Korea, noting that sanctions have not been successful in deterring them. He clarified that no decisions have been made regarding a potential fifth test. US General Vincent Brooks, who has been nominated by President Barack Obama to lead American forces in South Korea, stated that China is frustrated with North Korea's behavior, particularly its nuclear advancements. However, China is reluctant to exert pressure that could jeopardize the stability of Kim Jong Un's regime. Brooks also noted that Kim Jong Un appears to be more daring, arrogant, and impulsive than his father, Kim Jong Il, as he continues to ignore international concerns and advance North Korea's nuclear program. Assistant Secretary of State Russel mentioned that it will take time to assess the effectiveness of the latest sanctions, but China has shifted towards applying pressure on North Korea after exhausting other diplomatic measures. Russel also suggested that serious and sustained pressure on North Korea has not been attempted before. The North Korean economy's heavy reliance on China and access to China is so significant that any change in China's approach could potentially mark a new phase. However, Frank Jannuzi, a former Senate Foreign Relations Committee staffer for East Asia and the Pacific, doubts that China has truly shifted its stance and is now willing to exert more pressure on North Korea. Jannuzi believes that while China has economic leverage, they are hesitant to fully utilize it due to concerns about the effectiveness and potential consequences of severe sanctions, such as conflict, refugees, or turmoil. | 1 |
Sweden criticized the Copenhagen climate change summit as a "disaster" and a "great failure" on Tuesday, prior to a meeting of European Union environment ministers to determine how to salvage the process. The European Union had hoped for a commitment to a 20-percent reduction in carbon emissions below 1990 levels within a decade, but no concrete goals were achieved in the end. Swedish Environment Minister Andreas Carlgren expressed disappointment with the outcome and stated that ministers would discuss how to move forward after the failed summit. Carlgren, who is leading the talks as Sweden holds the EU presidency, emphasized the need to learn from the mistakes and explore new approaches. The U.N.-led conference concluded with a non-binding agreement to limit global warming to 2 degrees Celsius, but failed to outline a plan for achieving this goal. Despite extensive preparation and international diplomacy, the talks ultimately stalled due to disagreements between the United States and China, the world's top emitters. The EU had a unified stance and a financing plan for emissions cuts in developing countries, but these efforts were overshadowed by the lack of a significant breakthrough in the negotiations. Carlgren noted that Europe remained steadfast in its goals, while the main obstacles came from other countries, particularly the United States and China. Britain accused China and a few other countries of blocking a legally binding treaty at Copenhagen, increasing the blame game that has been ongoing since the talks ended. Prime Minister Gordon Brown criticized the summit as being flawed or chaotic and called for urgent reform to reach a legal treaty when talks resume in Germany next June. Danish Climate Minister Connie Hedegaard, who left her role as president of the Copenhagen talks amid criticism from African countries, emphasized the need to stay positive and turn the progress made into tangible results. She stated that Copenhagen would have been a failure if no agreements were reached. We accomplished a milestone by taking a first step in holding a process where all countries, including major emitters, were present. | 1 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of regional and global collaboration during an international symposium on climate change and food security in Dhaka. The symposium concluded with the signing of the Dhaka Symposium Declaration. Ahmed highlighted the need for neighboring countries to work together to mitigate the impact of natural disasters and adapt to anticipated changes caused by climate change. Iceland's visiting president Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson also stressed the global nature of the issue and called for international discussions on the security implications of climate change. The symposium was jointly organized by Dhaka University, Ohio State University, the World Meteorological Organisation, UNESCAP, and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The chief adviser emphasized that Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate change is due to its geography as a low-lying mega-delta with three large river systems and heavy rainfall, leading to annual floods. He called on the international community, especially high greenhouse gas emitters, to help address the impact of climate change so that severely affected countries like Bangladesh can maintain food security. He highlighted the challenge of lifting 50 million people out of poverty while ensuring access to basic necessities like food, shelter, water, and healthcare. The adviser also mentioned the recent floods and Cyclone Sidr, which have threatened the country's agricultural economy and food supply. The chief adviser stated that Bangladesh faces an increasingly challenging situation due to the impact of global warming on food production, leading to food deficits in the past two decades. The melting of Himalayan glaciers and river sediments, along with drainage issues, are further exacerbating the problem. Iceland's president, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, emphasized the importance of all states participating in a global discussion on the security implications of climate change. He proposed collaborative efforts beyond South Asia involving countries reliant on the Himalaya region for water, as experts predict the glaciers in the area could disappear in the next 40-70 years. Grimsson also mentioned that Iceland is experiencing the negative effects of climate change, with the largest glaciers in Europe located in the country. He stated that his country could be an example of how to combat climate change by transforming energy systems. Iceland has shifted from relying on fossil fuels to being a leader in clean energy production. Grimsson emphasized the importance of collaboration between scientific communities, governments, businesses, and civic associations to achieve success. He called for a united effort and involvement of concerned citizens. The Dhaka Symposium Declaration suggests creating a Climate Change and Food Security Network in South Asia, enhancing regional policy instruments, and finding innovative financial measures for adaptation options. The closing ceremony took place at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel on Saturday, with Dhaka University vice chancellor SMA Faiz presiding over the event. Other speakers at the ceremony included FAO's Asia and the Pacific regional representative Changchui He, FAO country representative Ad Spijkers, commerce adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman, and the chief adviser's special assistant in charge of environment and forests Raja Devashish Roy. | 1 |
Koichi Mizushima, a spokesperson for the Japan Foreign Ministry, informed journalists on Saturday that the purpose of the foreign minister's visit to Bangladesh was to strengthen cooperation with a country that has always been friendly towards Japan. This visit by Kishida marks the first time a foreign minister has visited Dhaka since the controversial Jan 5 parliamentary election, which the opposition BNP and its allies boycotted. The spokesperson emphasized the importance of this visit for enhancing the bilateral relationship, especially since a new government has been formed. The focus of the discussions between the two foreign ministers was on establishing a comprehensive partnership, covering various aspects beyond just politics. The spokesperson highlighted the growing economic relationship between Japan and Bangladesh, with Japanese investment in Bangladesh increasing significantly in recent years. Japan is the largest bilateral development partner for Bangladesh, providing various forms of assistance such as grants, aid, technical support, and soft loans. The two countries are currently in negotiations for a new loan package, with Japan committing to provide a significant amount for projects in the energy and city development sectors. The spokesperson also mentioned Japan's recognition of Bangladesh's economic potential and strategic location, and the mutual interest in enhancing regional connectivity and addressing climate change issues. The two foreign ministers discussed various areas of cooperation, including the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement and visa exemptions for diplomatic personnel. Japan also expressed interest in financing key infrastructure projects in Bangladesh and setting up a Peace-building Centre in the country. Bangladesh invited Japan to participate in the Third World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction in Sendai next year. | 1 |
Speaking on RTL television at a pre-election town hall event, Merkel urged German carmakers, who have been found cheating on nitrogen emissions tests, to work towards rebuilding trust in diesel. She emphasized the importance of diesel in reaching climate protection goals, despite the fact that diesel cars emit more nitrogen dioxide, which can be harmful in high concentrations. Merkel also addressed the issue of compensation for German car owners affected by the scandal, noting the differences in legal systems between Germany and the US. She stressed the need for German carmakers to compensate owners whose vehicles have lost value due to the scandal to prevent harm to the reputation of the industry. The auto industry's future in Germany, which is the country's largest exporter and employer of 800,000 people, has become a prominent topic in the current election. Politicians are pointing fingers at executives and each other for the industry's damaged reputation following Volkswagen's admission of cheating on US emissions tests nearly two years ago. | 1 |
Indonesia President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono called for US leadership on climate change during a meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Jakarta on Thursday. Clinton's visit aimed to strengthen US ties with Southeast Asia and the Muslim world, before she traveled to South Korea to discuss the North's military threat. The two leaders discussed economic cooperation, Palestine, and the need for a new global agreement on climate change. Yudhoyono emphasized the importance of US leadership in reaching a global consensus on climate change. During a TV interview on a local youth music show, Clinton confirmed her attendance at a conference in Cairo on March 2 to discuss rebuilding Gaza, as part of the new administration's efforts to improve relations with the Islamic world. Clinton emphasized the United States' commitment to re-engaging in Middle East affairs since President Obama took office, following the damage caused by Israel's offensive in Hamas-run Gaza. Her visit to Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, reflects Obama's goal of strengthening U.S. ties with the Muslim world, especially after the unpopular policies of former President George W. Bush. While most Indonesians practice a moderate form of Islam, there have been protests by radical groups and students opposing Clinton's trip. Indonesia is home to the headquarters of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and has the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Discussions during Clinton's visit have included the financial crisis, with Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda mentioning the possibility of U.S. assistance through a currency swap agreement and contingency funding to support the country's economy. Indonesia is already in talks to extend currency swap arrangements with Japan, China, and South Korea. President Yudhoyono, who is running for reelection, is eager to highlight Indonesia's stability and transition to democracy since the resignation of former President Suharto in 1998. Clinton, like previous U.S. officials, praised Indonesia as an example of modernity and Islam coexisting, especially during her visit to the country where Obama spent part of his childhood. During her guest appearance on the music show "Dahsyat" ("Awesome"), Clinton received applause when she mentioned her appreciation for classical music as well as her love for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Before heading to South Korea, she was scheduled to visit a USAID sanitation project in Jakarta. Recently, North Korea has been threatening to attack South Korea, even declaring readiness for war on Thursday. Analysts believe Pyongyang is preparing to launch its longest-range missile in order to get the attention of the new US administration and push Seoul to soften its stance. Clinton has expressed that such a missile launch would not be beneficial for relations. Following her visit to South Korea, Clinton will travel to China, which is the final destination on her tour of Asia that also included Japan. This trip marks her first international visit since assuming office. | 1 |
In a speech to the National Academy of Sciences, President Barack Obama emphasized the importance of government support for scientific research, particularly in light of the flu virus outbreak that has prompted a public health emergency in the US. Obama called for a commitment to dedicating 3 percent of gross domestic product to scientific research, highlighting the essential role of the scientific and medical community in addressing public health challenges. Obama stressed the need for the US to prioritize scientific research to ensure the country does not fall behind in addressing critical issues. Obama reassured the public that US cases of swine flu were not a cause for alarm, but the administration was closely monitoring the situation. The administration stated that the declaration of a public health emergency was a precautionary measure. The flu has led to 149 deaths in Mexico and has spread to North America and Europe, sparking pandemic fears. Although no deaths have been reported outside of Mexico, concerns have been raised. Obama referenced the space race between the US and the Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s to emphasize the importance of investing in research. He also noted that science spending as a percentage of GDP has decreased since that time. Obama stated that by aiming to spend more than 3 percent of GDP on science, the United States will not only reach but surpass the level achieved during the space race. This goal encompasses both public and private spending. Currently, the US allocates 2.66 percent of GDP to research and development. Some of the additional funding is part of the economic stimulus package signed by Obama in February, and in his proposed fiscal 2010 budget, he suggested making tax credits for business investment in research and development permanent. The White House is emphasizing Obama's achievements as he approaches the 100-day mark of his presidency, including his efforts to address global climate change and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The administration has opened a two-day meeting on climate change with major world economies, and Obama's goal is to cut US emissions by 15 percent by 2020 through a cap-and-trade system. This proposal is a key component of a bill currently being considered in Congress. Republicans have been critical of the cap-and-trade system, calling it a sneaky way to impose an energy tax. Additionally, some moderate Democrats have expressed concerns about the potential impact of the plan on jobs and the economy. | 1 |
When Chinese President Hu Jintao arrived in Tokyo for a state visit, he praised the closer cooperation between China and Japan despite disagreements over energy resources and security. Hu was welcomed by Japanese officials and Chinese well-wishers, while police were on alert for potential protests by right-wing activists. China is presenting itself as a friendly neighbor after years of conflict with Japan, and Hu is focusing on positive goals for his visit, including ceremonies, speeches, agreements, and cultural exchanges such as table tennis and panda diplomacy. This visit is significant as China works to ease tensions over Tibetan unrest and ensure a successful Olympic Games. Hu emphasized the importance of strong relations between China and Japan for the prosperity of both countries, stating that cooperation has brought tangible benefits and contributed to the growth and development of each nation. He expressed his hope for lasting friendship between the people of China and Japan, highlighting the significance of their achievements and the Beijing Games as a symbol of unity on a global scale. There is a lot at stake in the relationship between the two largest economies in Asia. China has become Japan's top trade partner, surpassing the United States last year with trade worth $236.6 billion, a 12 percent increase from 2006. While China's rapid growth presents opportunities, Japan is concerned about Beijing's increasing diplomatic and military influence, especially regarding disputed energy resources, military capabilities, and the quality of Chinese exports. Despite some progress in their relationship, further efforts are needed from both sides to fully improve relations. The highlight of Hu's visit will be a summit with Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda on Wednesday, where they aim to announce a joint plan for managing their relationship in the future. However, it was uncertain whether the declarations of friendship would resolve disagreements or simply cover them with positive language. According to Japanese media reports, sensitive topics such as Taiwan, human rights, Japan's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council, and gas reserves in the East China Sea were still being discussed. The two countries are also in dispute over the gas reserves, while a recent incident involving Chinese-made dumplings contaminated with pesticide has been seen as a sign of Japan's concerns about China's growing power. Both countries had hoped for progress in the gas dispute before Hu's visit, but a quick resolution seems unlikely. Japan is also seeking more information about China's increasing defense spending, which is set at 418 billion yuan ($60 billion) for 2008, a 17.6 percent increase from the previous year and surpassing Japan's defense budget. Foreign critics suggest that China's actual military budget is higher than officially reported. Tokyo is seeking Chinese support for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a contentious issue that sparked anti-Japanese protests in China in 2005 due to resentment over Japan's occupation from 1931-1945. A Hong Kong newspaper, Ta Kung Pao, controlled by mainland China, indicated that Chinese President Hu was unlikely to meet Japanese expectations. The paper mentioned sensitive issues such as the gas dispute and the Security Council matter that may be challenging to resolve during the visit. It suggested that while a concrete resolution may not be feasible at this time, some vague agreements could potentially be reached. China has urged Japan to clarify its position on Taiwan, which Beijing believes should reunify with China. Japan has expressed support for a unified China that includes Taiwan, a former Japanese colony with strong ties to Japan. Despite this issue, both countries are focused on promoting goodwill and will release a joint document on combating climate change. Chinese President Hu will speak to university students in Tokyo, potentially play table tennis with Fukuda, and may offer Japan a panda to replace one that recently passed away in a Tokyo zoo. | 1 |
Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan expressed hope on Tuesday that a climate change agreement could be reached with the support of the US under Barack Obama's administration. Speaking at the Global Humanitarian Forum, he emphasized the urgency of taking action to prevent severe weather events that will worsen with global warming. Annan stressed the importance of not delaying action, as the consequences will only become more severe over time. The forum, attended by UN agency heads, government officials, and experts, focused on practical ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the impacts of global warming. Annan emphasized the need for a deal in Copenhagen in December to succeed the Kyoto accord. Annan expressed optimism about the new president and administration in the United States taking significant steps to combat climate change, as the US is a major source of emissions. More than 190 countries will convene in Copenhagen to discuss a successor to the Kyoto Protocol, which regulates greenhouse gas emissions. Economic stimulus efforts globally have also led to increased investment in low-carbon energy and alternative technologies, potentially creating jobs and promoting sustainable projects. However, climate experts have cautioned that current pledges by industrialized nations to reduce emissions by 2020 are insufficient to prevent dangerous climate change. The emissions reductions pledged by developed countries leading up to the meeting in December now range from 10 to 14 percent below 1990 levels, according to calculations by Reuters. The UN Climate Panel states that cuts need to be in the range of 25-40 percent below 1990 levels to prevent the most severe impacts of climate change. | 1 |
A special Biman Bangladesh flight departed from Dhaka at 12:10pm on Tuesday carrying the prime minister and her delegation. The flight is set to land in London on Tuesday night according to Bangladesh time. Hasina will have a layover in London to visit family members, including her niece Tulip Siddiq who was re-elected as an MP in the British elections on June 8. The prime minister is expected to arrive in Stockholm on Wednesday night local time, as confirmed by her Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim. The Bangladeshi Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali announced at a press briefing on Sunday that the Swedish prime minister had extended an invitation to her Bangladeshi counterpart for a visit. This visit is expected to strengthen and broaden the cooperation between the two countries and improve Bangladesh's reputation in Europe. Additionally, it is anticipated that two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) regarding the Sweden-Bangladesh Business Council and Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industries will be signed during the visit. A joint statement will also be released following the visit, and a 47-member business delegation will accompany the prime minister. During her trip to Sweden on June 15 and 16, she is scheduled to have a one-on-one meeting with her counterpart. Additionally, the Prime Minister will also meet with the deputy prime minister, acting speaker, and minister for justice and migration. She will also meet with the chief executives of various Swedish companies. Sweden was an early supporter of Bangladesh in 1971, and February 4, 2017, marked the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Bangladesh exports clothing valued at $5 billion annually to Sweden, primarily to the well-known brand H&M. The foreign minister stated that the visit would enhance bilateral cooperation, attract investment, and strengthen ties in various areas such as migration, climate change, UN peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, and extremism. All of Bangladesh's products enter Sweden with duty-free market access. The prime minister is scheduled to depart for Dhaka on June 16 and arrive on Saturday. | 1 |
The head of the European Union's executive is urging the United States to demonstrate more ambition in addressing global climate change during an upcoming meeting of major industrialized countries in Japan. While there has been some progress in aligning views on tackling greenhouse gas emissions between Brussels and Washington, significant differences still exist. Without a stronger commitment from U.S. President George W. Bush, meaningful progress may not be made until late next year when countries convene to negotiate a new U.N. climate change agreement. The next round of U.N. climate talks is scheduled for December in Poland, but the United States will be in transition with the inauguration of its next president in January. Barroso expressed the belief that the United States, as a major economy, should do more for the world. He expects the U.S. to be more ambitious at the upcoming G8 summit than they were last year, where they agreed to consider halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The EU is pushing for a fixed goal and a target for emission cuts by 2020, even though they acknowledge the unlikely support from the Bush administration. Barroso emphasized the importance of a near-term goal in addition to the 2050 target. He mentioned that he anticipated the upcoming U.S. president to further support the change in Washington's stance towards actions already approved by the EU. The EU, consisting of 27 nations, has pledged to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 20 percent compared to 1990 levels by 2020 and is currently developing regulations on emissions from industries, vehicles, aircraft, and other laws to achieve that goal. The U.S. states its dedication to combating climate change but is unwilling to commit to mandatory emission reductions until major developing countries like China and India agree to enforceable limits. | 1 |
She made her comments on Wednesday at the Bangladesh Development Forum 2018 at the Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka. She emphasized the need for developed countries to provide financial and technical support to achieve development goals. Regarding climate change, she stressed the importance of focusing on the world trade system in addition to traditional financial aid. Hasina highlighted Bangladesh's progress in socio-economic development and emphasized the importance of achieving targets set in Vision 2021 and the UN's sustainable development goals by 2030 to become a developed and prosperous country by 2041. She expressed hope that the Bangladesh Development Forum will help in creating strategies for a poverty-free and prosperous Bangladesh. Bangladesh is a country with great potential and the confidence and resources to establish itself as a strong economy globally. The prime minister stated that Bangladesh is currently the 44th largest economy by GDP and 32nd by purchasing power parity. International financial analysts predict that by 2030 and 2050, Bangladesh will rank as the 28th and 23rd largest economy respectively. Bangladesh is set to graduate from the LDC category at the United Nations Committee for Development Policy's meeting in March, which will result in the loss of certain benefits. To compensate for this, the focus will be on increasing economic mobility and workforce readiness. Hasina stated that Bangladesh is well-prepared to deal with the impact of economic activities focusing on regional communication, infrastructure, efficiency, employment, technology, institutional strengthening, economic and social equality, women's empowerment, and equal opportunities. She emphasized the importance of private partnerships, including with international partners, in the country's ongoing progress, citing the government's initiative to establish 100 economic zones. Hasina highlighted the need for rapid growth investment to overcome Bangladesh's investment limitations, noting that a significant increase in productivity could help achieve this. The Bangladesh Development Forum, which brings together government officials and development partners, aims to address financing issues related to sustainable development goals to help Bangladesh transition from being a least developed country. The Sonargaon Hotel will host a two-day event featuring discussions on agriculture, extreme climate conditions, creating an environment for foreign direct investment, addressing inequality, promoting quality education and ICT. The final day will focus on sessions about addressing violence against women, empowering women, and enhancing urban service delivery. | 1 |
The Obama administration introduced a new national security doctrine that combines diplomacy, economic discipline, and military power to enhance America's global position. Unlike the Bush era, President Obama's strategy aims to broaden partnerships beyond traditional allies to include emerging powers like China and India. The administration also recognizes the importance of economic growth and fiscal responsibility as key national security priorities. The policy statement emphasized the need to strengthen the economy, which is the foundation of American power. Obama's official declaration of national security goals, set to be fully released later on Thursday, notably does not include Bush's policy of pre-emptive war that strained relationships with some US allies. The document outlined Obama's plan to prioritize multilateral diplomacy over military force in order to maintain America's safety during conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq. It also emphasized the importance of engaging with hostile nations while warning Iran and North Korea of potential isolation if they do not comply with international norms. The National Security Strategy, a required report for every president, is significant as it can impact budgets and legislation and is closely monitored worldwide. Obama, who inherited a financial crisis upon taking office, emphasized the connection between America's economic well-being and its global standing, stressing the need for sustainable fiscal policies and reduced reliance on foreign oil. The report did not discuss the emerging consensus in foreign policy circles that heavy US indebtedness to countries like China poses a national security problem. However, it did highlight Washington's complex relationship with Beijing, commending it for playing a more active role in global affairs but emphasizing the need for responsible behavior. The report expressed concerns about China's military buildup and stated that the US would take necessary measures to protect its interests and allies. In 2002, Bush asserted the right to unilateral and pre-emptive military action against perceived threats in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Obama's approach distanced his administration from the Bush Doctrine that led to the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The doctrine outlined on Thursday reaffirmed previous presidents' dedication to maintaining US conventional military superiority, while also marking Obama's departure from what critics of Bush referred to as "cowboy diplomacy." The document emphasized the importance of recognizing both the strengths and weaknesses of international institutions, stating that the US cannot simply walk away from them. Instead, the focus should be on strengthening these institutions and promoting collective action to address common challenges such as violent extremism, nuclear proliferation, economic growth, and climate change. Obama's message also served as a reminder to both current and emerging powers that they must contribute their fair share to global efforts. Obama has been recognized for improving the tone of US foreign policy, although he is still facing challenges with unfinished wars, nuclear tensions with Iran and North Korea, and slow progress in Middle East peace efforts. Critics argue that his diplomatic efforts may show US weakness and question if he is relying too much on "soft power," potentially putting American interests at risk. Obama's strategy aims to combat al Qaeda while upholding human rights and rejecting torture as a national security tactic. He has also attempted to improve relations with the Muslim world, which suffered during the Bush administration due to the Iraq war, prisoner abuse scandals, and inflammatory language. Preventing the danger of domestic terrorism was also identified as a key focus. This follows the unsuccessful Christmas Day attack on a US airline and the failed Times Square car bombing incident that occurred recently. | 1 |
Jill Biden has gained a reputation for being hesitant about her role in fashion, as she has expressed surprise at the amount of attention her clothing choices receive. Unlike Michelle Obama, who used fashion to bridge cultural gaps, or Melania Trump, who used high fashion as a political tool, Jill Biden has taken a different approach. Despite this, she showed during her solo trip to the Tokyo Olympics that there are many ways to make an impact, as she showcased American designers while abroad. She also embodied the theme of the Olympics, which was focused on being environmentally friendly with the motto "Be better, together — For the planet and the people." Biden wore only one new outfit during her trip to Japan, the Ralph Lauren navy jacket and pants, while the rest of her clothing was recycled from her closet, even at important public events. This outfit was worn while accompanying Anthony Fauci on a visit to a vaccination site in Florida in June. The floral Tom Ford outfit was worn to dinner with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and his wife Mariko. It was worn at the G-7 summit in Britain in July. The polka-dot Brandon Maxwell outfit was worn at the opening ceremony as well, along with the much-talked-about "Love" jacket. The white Michael Kors dress that was worn in Tokyo under a Team USA jacket had previously been seen at a G-7 appearance with a navy jacket when President Joe Biden and the first lady arrived in Britain. Even the lilac dress worn by Jill Biden in Honolulu during the last leg of the trip had been worn before. Recycling wardrobes may not seem significant, but it has been uncommon in the world of image-making, celebrities, and powerful political or entrepreneurial figures since the 21st century. The constant need for new content has typically been associated with new outfits, whether on the red carpet, at premieres, or at state events. It has been entertaining to observe and a fun distraction to guess the designer. However, it has also unintentionally strengthened the culture of disposable fashion that has contributed to the excess of material possessions that many people now lament. This has led to the belief that every occasion necessitates a new outfit. Biden's decision to break away from this trend is just as significant as her choice to continue working as a professor while serving in the White House. It is a move that could potentially have a significant impact if people take notice. Biden is not completely disregarding fashion, as each outfit she wears is part of the ongoing narrative of New York Fashion Week, showcasing both established and emerging American brands. By doing so, she is actively supporting local businesses on a global platform. Instead of constantly buying new clothes, she chooses to wear her clothes again to emphasize their worth. She believes that when you discover a piece of clothing that makes you feel confident and like your best self, you should hold onto it. If it made you feel that good once, it will continue to do so. This kind of clothing is worth investing in for the future and is not disposable. It is not just for others to see, but also for the woman wearing it. It is possible for anyone to do the same. This is a relatable experience, regardless of whether we are conscious of the sustainability aspect. It could be just a coincidence that she wore the same outfits multiple times. She was very busy leading up to the Olympics and may not have had time to carefully plan her wardrobe, simply choosing items from her closet. However, considering it was her first solo trip and with more attention on her, it seems unlikely that her outfit choices were purely coincidental, especially given the controversy surrounding the Olympics. Due to the pandemic restrictions causing a lack of audience members in the arena, Biden knew she would attract attention in the sparse crowd. Her words may not have been heard, but her outfit would definitely be noticed. Her reuse of styles, seen during various events in the first 100 days of her husband's administration, reflects the Biden agenda's focus on climate change. This trend may have reached its peak during this trip, indicating that it will become a defining aspect of Biden's time in the East Wing and how she approaches her role. If so, everyone benefits. Copyright 2021 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
President Barack Obama reassured Canada, his country's top trading partner, that he would not pursue protectionist policies. The two nations also agreed to work together on developing cleaner energy technology. Obama, on his first foreign trip as president, addressed Canadian concerns about a "Buy American" clause in a recent U.S. economic recovery plan. During talks with Prime Minister Stephen Harper, Obama emphasized the importance of avoiding protectionism and promoting trade for the benefit of all countries. He affirmed the United States' commitment to meeting its international trade obligations and expressed a desire to expand, rather than restrict, trade. Harper expressed confidence that the United States will uphold its obligations and remain a leader in advocating for globalized trade. He stated that he is open to enhancing the environmental and labor aspects of the North American Free Trade Agreement, a goal that Obama shares. However, Harper clarified that he does not endorse renegotiating the agreement, which has increased trade between Canada and the United States. Both parties agreed to work together on eco-friendly technologies to create an electricity grid powered by clean energy and extract fossil fuels with reduced pollution. At present, the technology is not economically feasible. Obama emphasized the importance of how we generate and use energy for economic recovery, security, and environmental protection. He acknowledged that these issues cannot be addressed in isolation and that there is no simple solution. Environmentalists are urging Obama to push Canada to address the environmental impact of its oil sands in Alberta, which produce a significant amount of greenhouse gases. They argue that tar sands are not a sustainable alternative to conventional oil. Despite this pressure, Obama highlighted the significance of Canada as the United States' main energy supplier, especially during a severe economic downturn. The majority of the oil sands output is intended for the U.S. market. Despite efforts to promote green energy development, Harper mentioned it was premature for the countries to discuss a collective strategy for decreasing greenhouse gas emissions. Obama, who recently assumed office, had promised during his campaign to lower U.S. emissions to 80 percent of 1990 levels by 2050. Unlike his predecessor, George W. Bush, who took a passive stance on the issue, Obama is dedicated to addressing global warming. However, he emphasized that climate change efforts should also consider economic factors given the current worldwide recession. A White House representative stated that the U.S.-Canadian green energy initiative would focus on aspects such as carbon capture, sequestration, and the smart grid. Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas responsible for global warming, according to scientists. Carbon sequestration, which is currently not cost-effective, involves capturing the gas and storing it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere. In Afghanistan, where Canada has 2,700 troops as part of a NATO-led force combating a growing insurgency, Obama stated that he had not requested additional military assistance. This week, Obama authorized the deployment of 17,000 new U.S. troops to Afghanistan to combat the insurgency. Harper announced that Ottawa, which plans to withdraw its troops by 2011, will increase economic aid to Afghanistan, which is currently the largest recipient of Canadian foreign aid. | 1 |
He has recently returned from a summit in Hanoi with North Korea that ended in disagreement, causing a darker cloud to hang over him. In addition to the failed meeting with Kim Jong Un, Trump is facing accusations from his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, of illegal activities while in office. These challenges come at a time when he is also dealing with sensitive negotiations with China, a crisis in Venezuela, tensions between India and Pakistan, and opposition in Congress to his emergency declaration for border wall funding. The ongoing probe by Special Counsel Robert Mueller into Russian interference in the 2016 election adds to the uncertainty surrounding Trump and his administration. Despite his concerns about the Cohen testimony, Trump expressed worry about Democrats attacking him while he was overseas. He additionally expressed a desire for the Mueller report to be completed. According to an anonymous source who was present, he was upset that congressional hearings were taking place while he was out of the country. He was also dissatisfied that the Mueller investigation had not been finished before his departure, as he believed it cast a shadow over him. During the summit, Trump abruptly ended discussions on North Korea's denuclearization, leading to conflicting reports from both sides and casting doubt on the future of one of his key initiatives. The White House had initially planned a signing ceremony for a deal in Hanoi, but ultimately canceled it. Trump's Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, criticized reporters for focusing on what he dismissed as "process" and called them "radically uninformed." Despite the time difference, Trump stayed updated on Cohen's testimony from his hotel suite in Hanoi during the summit. Trump's inner circle believed he came out of the week fine, as they felt there was nothing new in Cohen's testimony and Trump was praised for walking away from a potential deal with North Korea. Conservative media mogul and close friend of the president, Christopher Ruddy, stated that there were no surprises during the week, as they were aware North Korea was difficult to negotiate with and expected Cohen to make negative remarks. Ruddy told Reuters that, ultimately, he believes the Cohen testimony will not significantly impact the political landscape for President Trump. However, some of Trump's allies have expressed concerns about the effectiveness of his re-election campaign's response to the testimony. Chris Christie, a friend of Trump and former New Jersey Governor, questioned why there hasn't been a stronger defense of the president. Trump is expected to receive support at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Saturday, where he will be speaking. At the CPAC event, RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel promptly stood up for Trump's handling of the Vietnam summit. "He left in a justified manner because he made it clear that the sanctions would not be lifted unless there was a commitment to denuclearization," she stated, receiving applause. | 1 |
The Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation, organized a rally in the city to celebrate World Food Day on Friday. This year's theme is 'Achieving Food Security in Times of Crisis'. The Agriculture minister Matia Chowdhury kicked off the day's events with the rally, followed by a procession that began at Khamar Bari. The event was attended by agriculturists, scientists, officials, and members of the public. A large number of school children also took part in the rally, carrying colorful banners and festoons. The program was supported by Telefood, a FAO project aimed at ending hunger, bdnews24.com, and Channel i. A seminar to commemorate the day is taking place at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, with agricultural minister Matia Chowdhury in attendance. Also participating are food and disaster management minister Mohammad Abdur Razzaque and minister of fisheries and livestock Abdul Latif Biswas. FAO Bangladesh representative, AD Spijkers, is the guest of honour. A children's painting competition is set to take place at 3pm at Bangladesh Shishu Academy. Additionally, a three-day fair on 'Agriculture and Food' will be inaugurated at the Krishibid Institution premise at 12pm. Another similar fair will be held at Depasai village in Somobhat union under Dhamrai upazila. Channel i will broadcast the program live. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will release postage stamps and envelopes in the afternoon to commemorate the day. District and upazila administrations across the country are also marking the day with discussion meetings and rallies. President Zillur Rahman emphasized the importance of taking proper measures to ensure food security in a changing climate on the eve of World Food Day. In his message, Rahman stated that he believes research and technological innovation can play a crucial role in increasing food production. Prime minister Sheikh Hasina stated that agriculture is the sector most impacted by climate change and it is crucial to focus on ensuring food security. She mentioned that Bangladesh achieved self-dependency in agriculture during the previous Awami League government from 1996-2001, but subsequent governments were not able to maintain this success. The current government is committed to achieving self-dependency in agriculture again and ensuring food security for all. In his statement, the UN chief Ban Ki-moon emphasized the importance of food and nutritional security as essential elements for a good quality of life, education, and the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals. He highlighted the significant challenges posed by volatile food prices, economic downturns, climate change, and conflicts, which have resulted in a sharp increase in the number of people lacking access to sufficient food. Ban Ki-moon expressed concern over the fact that more than one billion people are currently experiencing hunger, urging nations to implement comprehensive strategies for agricultural development and social protection to ensure that vulnerable populations, especially women and children, have access to the food they need for their well-being. The FAO representative in Bangladesh, AD Spijkers, also warned about the potential setbacks in achieving MDG 1, which aims to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger. He explained that the situation was caused by the economic crisis and sudden price increases, which have negatively impacted the incomes and food access of the poor, especially those in the most impoverished regions of the world. Spijkers expressed confidence in the government's commitment to achieve food self-sufficiency by 2012 and maintain it, stating that Bangladeshi farmers have the potential to reach this goal. | 1 |
Unemployment remains low, inflation is minimal, and economic growth has been steady for almost a decade. As a college professor who often gives letter grades, I would rate the US economy as an A- overall, but believe it could have received a higher grade if economic gains were distributed more equitably. However, it is important to remember that while Trump influences economic policy, he does not control the economy itself. To provide an unbiased evaluation, I have examined surveys of approximately 50 leading economists from both liberal and conservative backgrounds conducted by the University of Chicago. Surprisingly, these economists overwhelmingly agree that Trump's policies are harmful to the economy. Many economists are concerned about his presidency due to his protectionist trade policies, even though the economy is performing well. Trump's imposition of tariffs on goods like aluminum and steel goes against economic wisdom and has harmed the competitiveness of US manufacturers. Economists do not believe that these tariffs will benefit Americans and argue that global supply chains have made them more costly than before. The trade war between the United States and China has escalated with retaliatory tariffs on American-made goods. Trump's threat to terminate the North American Free Trade Agreement caused unnecessary uncertainty and resulted in a new deal that many believe will not significantly differ from the original. There is doubt whether Congress will approve this new deal. Criticism of Trump's protectionist tendencies is widespread, with his declaration of being "Tariff Man" on Twitter causing financial markets to plummet. Even the president's own Council of Economic Advisers has determined that his tariffs will hinder economic growth. Even according to Trump's own preferred measure, the trade balance, his policy has been unsuccessful as the trade deficit has reached its highest level in 10 years. In terms of fiscal policy, Trump's approach has been deemed a failure as well. The basic principle of fiscal policy is that in times of economic prosperity, the government should reduce spending so that in times of economic downturn, it can increase spending and lower taxes to support the economy. Trump's $1.5 trillion tax cut, which was meant to stimulate the economy, has been criticized as unnecessary and ineffective. Due to the unusually high budget deficit and increasing government debt in a healthy economy, fiscal policy may struggle to provide a boost during the next economic downturn. While Trump may argue that the tax cut was intended to promote long-term economic growth rather than short-term stimulus, economists predict that it will fail to achieve this goal. A survey conducted before the passage of the tax bill revealed that most experts believed it would not significantly increase gross domestic product in the long run. One dissenting expert, Darrell Duffie, believed it would boost growth but questioned the fairness of the tax plan. Daron Acemoglu, a prominent macroeconomist, raised concerns that any benefits from simplifying the tax code would be outweighed by its regressive nature. Recent data suggest that the promised investment boom from the tax cut has not materialized. Despite receiving strong support from economists, Trump's infrastructure spending plans have not progressed, despite the potential for bipartisan backing. Monetary policy is straightforward for a president: appoint competent individuals and allow the Federal Reserve to carry out its duties. President Trump has succeeded in selecting Jerome Powell as Fed chairman, who has received high marks from economists. Trump's other Fed appointments have also been conventional, resulting in a group of policymakers that Jeb Bush could have chosen. Trump has undermined his reputation in this area by interfering in ways that have unnecessarily complicated the Federal Reserve's tasks. Most developed countries, including the United States, typically keep monetary policy free from political influence to ensure policymakers can maintain low and stable inflation. However, Trump has publicly criticized Powell for not lowering interest rates and has even suggested firing him. This behavior is counterproductive as it makes it more difficult for Powell to lower rates without appearing to have caved to pressure from Trump. Trump's actions go against commonly accepted economic principles. His plan diverges significantly from the beliefs of both Democratic and Republican economists. This raises the question of why the economy is performing well despite his unorthodox approach. It is possible that this success is more due to luck than to wise decision-making. Trump was fortunate to take over an economy that had already been steadily improving since around 2010. Analysis of various economic indicators reveals that the current strength of the economy is simply a continuation of this upward trend. Even if Trump is not responsible for the current economic trajectory, he should be acknowledged for not derailing it. It is possible that the president does not have a significant impact on economic outcomes. However, there is concern that the negative effects of Trump's policies have not yet been fully realized. The uncertainty and chaos caused by his administration's policy process may have deterred some investors, although this impact is hard to quantify. Furthermore, Trump's tax cuts, which are not funded, are generating a debt that will need to be repaid by future generations. By reducing the Federal Reserve's independence, he may have hindered its ability to combat inflation effectively. Additionally, easing regulations in the financial sector may benefit large banks in the short term but could raise the risk of future financial disasters. The removal of environmental regulations may have boosted profits for certain businesses but has accelerated climate change. While limiting immigration may have decreased job competition, economists are concerned that this could ultimately stifle innovation and economic growth in the long term. It is also possible that Trump's approach is correct, and economists are mistaken. As someone who is a trained economist, I personally do not agree with this statement, but it appears that Trump also does not trust the opinions of economists. Source: New York Times News Service, 2019. | 1 |
Officials in London and Washington have revealed that the British government took an early role in negotiating a three-way alliance with the United States and Australia to deploy nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific. This significant agreement was announced shortly after Australia scrapped a $66 billion deal for diesel-electric submarines with France, causing anger in Paris and satisfaction in London. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sees this as his first tangible success in positioning post-Brexit Britain as a global player. Since leaving the European Union 18 months ago, Britain has been searching for its role on the world stage, with the slogan "Global Britain" being seen as more of a marketing ploy than a coherent foreign policy. Johnson is set to meet with President Joe Biden at the White House and address the United Nations in the upcoming week. The agreement made on Wednesday between the United States, Britain, and Australia to supply Australia with submarines solidified Britain's reputation as a military power with nuclear capabilities and a reliable ally of the US. This deal not only supported Johnson's efforts to establish a British presence in Asia, but also demonstrated the country's ability to negotiate trade agreements with key Asian nations and deploy military resources to counter China's expanding influence in the South China Sea. According to Kim Darroch, a former British ambassador to Washington, this deal marks a significant step in establishing a strong British presence in the defense and economic sectors in the region, although the specifics of economic benefits still need to be clarified with the United States. Joining a distant security alliance also comes with costs and expectations for Britain, which is reducing its military size and facing financial challenges due to the pandemic. However, after feeling overlooked by Biden in the Afghanistan withdrawal, the alliance was seen as a way for Britain to regain importance. British officials saw the deal as a demonstration of their ability to adapt in a post-Brexit world, even if it meant distancing themselves from a European neighbor. Australia initially approached Britain for help with deploying nuclear-powered submarines, as they felt the diesel models from a previous French deal would not be sufficient in the face of increasing Chinese threats. Britain's historical connection with the United States in nuclear technology dates back to a 1958 defense agreement, making collaboration between the two allies not only natural but necessary. The United States will supply the highly enriched uranium needed to power the submarines' reactors. British and Australian officials made a strong effort to convince Washington to support the partnership, with discussions between Johnson and Biden at the Group of 7 meeting in Cornwall, England in June. Despite American officials questioning why Australia couldn't buy submarines directly from the United States, Britain argued that their military protocols were more compatible with those of Australia, making it easier for the Australians to operate vessels equipped with British technology. A Biden administration official stated that there was never a consideration of excluding Britain from the alliance. According to Bates Gill, a senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in Sydney, the decision was mainly technical but could also have been influenced by concerns about trustworthiness. For Johnson, who prioritizes the "special relationship" with the United States in his foreign policy, the submarine deal was seen as a way to make up for feeling ignored by Biden on his views on Afghanistan. Despite any tensions, Johnson has expressed support for Biden on his policies. Primary focus: the rivalry with China. Thomas Wright, director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution, commended the British strategy, emphasizing that decisions come with repercussions. Some in Britain may not see the advantages as outweighing the potential drawbacks. Former Prime Minister Theresa May cautioned that Britain could become involved in a conflict with China regarding Taiwan. Johnson previously asserted in 2016 that exiting the EU would enable Britain to interact with China on its own terms. Before Beijing imposed stricter measures on Hong Kong, which was previously under British rule, Britain's stance towards China appeared to be very similar to that of the United States. Prime Minister Johnson is aiming to enhance Britain's reputation by hosting a successful United Nations conference on climate change in Glasgow, Scotland in November. However, it remains uncertain how much support he will receive from President Biden. Britain is urging the United States to increase its contribution to a $100 billion annual fund to assist nations in dealing with the effects of climate change. Analysts suggest that Britain has not yet achieved this, but they believe that the country may benefit from having a new foreign secretary, Liz Truss, who has received praise for her work negotiating trade deals in Asia. Truss replaced Dominic Raab, who was demoted by Boris Johnson after facing criticism for being on vacation in Crete while the Taliban took control of Kabul. Despite some criticism, former British ambassador to Washington Peter Westmacott believes Truss is well-suited to enhance Britain's global presence. However, despite these positive changes, Britain still faces significant geopolitical challenges. The submarine agreement is expected to further strain France's relationship with the United Kingdom, which is already tense due to disagreements over fishing rights and migrants crossing the English Channel post-Brexit. The French government's displeasure towards Britain was evident in its reaction to news of the alliance: It withdrew its ambassadors from the United States and Australia but kept its envoy in Britain, indicating that it sees Britain as a minor player in global politics. Some analysts suggested that France was upset because it felt the United States was rewarding Britain instead of punishing it for leaving the EU. However, Prime Minister Johnson should not assume that relations with Washington will be smooth sailing either, as there may be disagreements over Northern Ireland's post-Brexit trade arrangements. During her visit to London on Friday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi reiterated a warning that Congress would not approve a trade agreement between Britain and the United States if Britain jeopardized peace in Northern Ireland. Analysts noted that President Biden's actions towards Britain on Afghanistan and the security alliance with France showed that the United States would prioritize its interests over trans-Atlantic relationships, regardless of sensitivities. Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the US and the Americas program at Chatham House, highlighted the disparity in how much Americans and Brits are discussing these issues, emphasizing the unequal nature of the "special relationship." | 1 |
According to a report by the World Economic Forum, the main threat facing the world in 2010 is the possibility of deteriorating government finances leading to full-fledged debt crises. Major economies have responded to the financial crisis by increasing deficits through stimulus packages and supporting private debt obligations. This has helped prevent a worse recession, but has raised concerns about high debt levels in financial markets. Developed nations are at a particularly high risk, as many emerging economies have already taken steps to address fiscal issues following previous shocks. The WEF report warns that the unprecedented levels of debt being accumulated by governments in an effort to stimulate their economies could lead to an increase in sovereign defaults. He warned that increasing levels of unemployment could result from higher debt levels, leading to social and political risks. The report identified unsustainable debt levels, the lingering effects of the financial crisis, underinvestment in infrastructure, and rising health costs due to chronic diseases as the top risks. Other potential threats included asset price collapse, risks related to Afghanistan, and a possible slowdown in Chinese growth, all of which could impact employment, lead to social unrest, and reduce exports. The report emphasized that developed nations could face consequences from overextending unsustainable debt levels, with full-blown debt crises resulting in higher unemployment and other social and political ramifications. Daniel Hofmann, group chief economist at Zurich Financial Services, stressed that government debt levels exceeding 100 percent of GDP, as seen in the United States and the UK, are clearly unsustainable. "There is a significant risk that investors may become concerned about the sustainability of high debt levels, potentially leading to sovereign debt crises and defaults. Dubai and Greece serve as early warnings that should not be ignored," stated the speaker at a press conference. Concerns about Dubai, Ukraine, and Greece have had a global impact, with the possibility of continued pressure on these economies as well as on the United States and the United Kingdom. According to the WEF report, these countries face difficult decisions in the coming months as they navigate the withdrawal of fiscal stimulus in a way that supports economic recovery without causing fears of worsening sovereign debt. The report also emphasized a "governance gap" between short-term pressures and the need for long-term decisions on issues like healthcare, pensions, and climate change. According to the report, not enough is being done to tackle the problem of underinvestment in infrastructure, which could have negative effects on food and energy security. The World Bank has estimated that $35 trillion will be needed for global infrastructure investment over the next 20 years. The report also highlights the increasing financial burden of chronic diseases due to longer life expectancies and unhealthy lifestyles, which needs to be addressed through prevention campaigns promoting healthier living. The report warns that slow failures or gradually emerging risks pose the biggest threats to the world today, as their long-term impact and implications may be greatly underestimated. | 1 |
New York City officials decided to delay the planned clean-up of Zuccotti Park, where anti-Wall Street protesters have been camped out for a month. The private owner of the park, Brookfield Office Properties, made the last-minute decision to postpone the cleaning without providing a reason. The protesters were happy about the postponement and celebrated in the park, but several people were arrested when a group marched through the downtown financial district. A spokesperson from the New York Police Department confirmed that there were arrests made during the protests, but did not disclose the number of arrests or any further details. Many protesters were concerned that the cleaning of the area was an attempt to disband the movement, which has led to solidarity protests in over 1,400 cities. Global rallies were planned for Saturday in 71 countries, as reported by Occupy Together and United for Global Change. Protesters are angry about the U.S. bank bailouts during the recession, which allowed banks to make significant profits while average Americans continue to struggle with high unemployment and job insecurity. They also believe that the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans are not paying their fair share in taxes. Approximately 1,000 demonstrators gathered at the New York park early on Friday, with many staying up all night to clean it themselves. Buckets filled with brooms and mops were scattered throughout the park as protesters prepared for the clean-up. Bailey Bryant, a 28-year-old bank employee who frequents the camp after work and on weekends, emphasized the importance of maintaining cleanliness by stating, "We clean up after ourselves. It's not like there's rats and roaches running around the park." Some people in the park were worried that the delayed clean-up was actually a tactic to force them out. Sofia Johnson, a 17-year-old student from Brooklyn, expressed skepticism about the postponement, saying it seemed too good to be true. She believed that it was still a possibility and advised against letting one's guard down completely in such a situation. Brookfield had claimed that the park conditions were unsanitary and unsafe due to a lack of toilets and garbage cans. They also mentioned complaints from neighbors about lewd behavior, drug use, harassment, and offensive smells coming from the protesters. Brookfield did not respond to calls for comment on Friday morning. Following park regulations, Brookfield representatives, accompanied by police, distributed notices to protesters on Thursday informing them that the park would be cleaned in three stages and would reopen for public use in accordance with park regulations. However, the rules prohibit camping, tents, lying on the ground, placing tarps or sleeping bags on the ground, and storing personal property - all of which the protesters have been doing since they arrived on September 17. The deputy mayor announced the postponement, stating that Brookfield was delaying their scheduled cleaning of the park and withdrawing their request for police assistance. Brookfield believes they can reach an agreement with the protesters to ensure the park remains clean, safe, and available for public use while also being respectful to residents and businesses downtown. The situation will be monitored closely. Hundreds of individuals have been detained during demonstrations in New York, and over the past few weeks, numerous arrests have occurred in cities such as Boston, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Austin, and San Francisco. Additionally, solidarity gatherings have emerged at over 140 college campuses in 25 states across the U.S., as reported by Occupy Colleges. | 1 |
During her first trip abroad as secretary of state, Hillary Clinton stated that the United States must prioritize working with China on global challenges over human rights disputes. Now, with Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng seeking US protection in Beijing, the US will see if China agrees with this approach. Chen's escape and request for US protection come at a sensitive time for both countries, as they prepare for economic and security talks while China deals with a political scandal. US officials believe it is unlikely that Chen will be handed over to China against his will, leaving China to decide whether to compromise or risk damaging the relationship with the US. Despite being seen as probable, a compromise is not guaranteed. "I don't believe they will ruin the relationship," stated a senior official from the Obama administration anonymously. "This situation is not as serious as a spy plane incident or Tiananmen Square. I believe they will attempt to handle it." In 2001, the relationship between Beijing and Washington deteriorated following a crash between a Chinese fighter jet and a US surveillance plane. The Tiananmen Square incident in 1989, where Chinese troops violently suppressed pro-democracy demonstrators in the square, further strained relations with Washington. The United States has not yet confirmed reports that Chen fled from house arrest in China and sought refuge in the US embassy. China has also not commented directly on the dissident's reported escape. However, ChinaAid, based in Texas, has stated that Chen is under US protection and that high level talks are taking place between US and Chinese officials regarding his situation. This incident will be a difficult situation for the US secretaries of state and treasury as they visit Beijing for their Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Chen's escape comes after a similar incident involving Wang Lijun fleeing into the US consulate in Chengdu and sparking the Bo Xilai scandal. Former CIA top China analyst Chris Johnson stated that the current state of Sino-US relations is very tense, with recent events such as the Bo Xilai case, Chen's escape, and the potential sale of new F-16s to Taiwan contributing to the strain. Johnson believes that these factors may be seen by some in Beijing as part of a US strategy to contain China's growth. The resolution of these issues will depend on how China's leadership balances nationalist sentiments with a desire to maintain stability during the upcoming leadership succession. Despite the tensions, experts like Shi Yinhong believe that China will aim for a quick and quiet resolution to avoid negative impacts on foreign relations and domestic politics. Shi emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and cooperation between the two countries. I believe the United States will not use this tactic to shame China. They are more interested in influencing China's stance on North Korea and Syria. They are trying to minimize the repercussions of this situation as they are aware of the embarrassment it may cause China. Both countries have successfully resolved complex issues in the past, such as the mid-air collision incident in 2001. The 24 US crew-members were detained until April 11, but were released after the United States sent a letter apologizing for the death of the Chinese pilot and acknowledging that the EP-3 had entered China's airspace without permission. Despite Hillary Clinton's statement in February 2009 that the US would continue to address issues like Taiwan, Tibet, and human rights while prioritizing economic, climate, and security concerns, analysts believe that the US would not willingly hand over Chen due to moral and political reasons. Tom Malinowski, a former White House official and current director of Human Rights Watch in Washington, stated that it would be unthinkable for the US to forcibly hand over Chen against his will. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney has accused Obama of being weak on China, a critique that would be amplified if Obama were perceived as abandoning Chen. Analysts and rights activists have outlined two potential outcomes for resolving Chen's situation: he could be released within China with assurances for his safety and that of his family and supporters, or he could choose to go into exile despite his reluctance to leave China. Kenneth Lieberthal, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institution in Washington, stated that they would only make sure he leaves China if they are very confident he will not face any consequences for his actions. Lieberthal believes that sooner or later he will be taken to the airport with promises that he can leave, but he will likely never be able to return to China. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called on countries that are vulnerable to weather to come together and express their concerns at the upcoming UN climate conference in South Africa. She stated that the economic cost of climate change is $130 billion and will continue to rise if appropriate actions are not taken. Prime Minister Hasina opened the Climate Vulnerable Forum 2011 at a hotel in Dhaka on Monday, emphasizing the need for global acknowledgment of the serious injustice of climate change. She highlighted that countries like Bangladesh are suffering the consequences of climate change despite making minimal contributions to the problem. The Climate Vulnerable Forum has emerged as a significant new voice on climate change since the UN summit in Copenhagen two years ago. The initial Climate Vulnerable Forum took place in the Maldives capital of Malé in 2009, followed by the second one in Kiribati the following year. This forum is comprised of small island nations at risk of extreme weather events and rising sea levels, countries with extensive low-lying coastlines like Vietnam and Bangladesh, and arid nations in East Africa. Prime Minister Hasina expressed disappointment at the lack of concrete support for the adaptation efforts of vulnerable countries. She highlighted the challenges in accessing funding and technology, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the financing of the Green Climate Fund between 2012 and 2020. Hasina called for vulnerable countries to unite and voice their concerns leading up to COP17 in Durban. She stated that in response to climate change, it is important to collaborate with international partners and establish a strong partnership. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who visited Dhaka for a three-day trip, emphasized the need for launching the Green Climate Fund in Durban. He stressed that Durban must follow through on the agreements made in Cancún the previous year, as an empty shell would not be enough. In Cancún, Mexico, it was decided that the fund would be established. He stated that Durban needs to develop a plan of action regarding loss and damage to help countries like Bangladesh that are severely affected by extreme weather events. He emphasized that it is unfair to expect the poorest and most vulnerable to bear the costs. The UN leader expressed hope that governments would reach a compromise on the Kyoto protocol to pave the way for a more comprehensive climate agreement in the future. He pointed out that in 1991, a cyclone in Bangladesh led to the deaths of 140,000 people, whereas in 2007, only 4,000 people died due to a cyclone, highlighting the effectiveness of the Bangladesh Cyclone Preparedness programme. Bangladesh is known as one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. If sea levels rise by two meters, approximately 30 million Bangladeshis could be forced to leave their homes. The Dhaka declaration of the climate forum will be approved at 4:30pm. | 1 |
The demonstration involving over 1,000 people caused traffic congestion during rush hour in the Brazilian capital near the Mané Garrincha National Stadium, the most expensive stadium constructed for the upcoming sports event involving 32 nations, which is set to commence in 16 days. Indigenous people in traditional tribal attire with bows also joined the protest organized by the Homeless Worker's movement, highlighting concerns that the construction of stadiums for the World Cup led to inflated real estate prices, displacing lower-income families from their homes. Brazil is hurrying to complete stadiums and urban transport systems in preparation for the World Cup amidst a rise in civil disobedience by various Brazilian groups criticizing the excessive costs of hosting the event. The World Cup has become a platform for advocating different causes, with bus drivers in Rio de Janeiro planning a 24-hour strike starting at midnight and professors in Sao Paulo marching for better wages. The protest in Brasilia led to the cancellation of a display of the Fifa World Cup Trophy and the closure of the stadium, following a similar peaceful protest in Sao Paulo the previous week. Military police in Brasilia were attempting to contain the march with tear gas and shields, warning of intervention if the demonstrators approached the stadium. The cost of the Brasilia stadium is projected to reach 1.9 billion reais ($849.26 million) once the surrounding landscaping is completed post-World Cup, nearly three times the original budget. While indigenous groups have not previously participated in anti-World Cup protests, they have been actively protesting in Brasilia against changes in the rules regarding Indian reservations boundaries. President Dilma Rousseff has assured the Homeless Worker's movement that squatters near the stadiums will be provided with affordable government housing.
Her government has issued a warning that troops may be called in to prevent protests from disrupting the soccer games, as approximately 600,000 foreign soccer fans are expected to travel to Brazil for the World Cup. | 1 |
Officials and diplomats were addressing various issues such as banana imports and protecting product names in preparation for the upcoming ministerial trade negotiations. Trade experts emphasized that the significance of the talks goes beyond tariff and subsidy cuts, highlighting the international community's ability to address major problems like the food crisis. World Trade Organisation Chief Economist Patrick Low expressed concern about governments' inability to reach agreements on trade negotiations and its implications for dealing with issues like climate change. WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy convened the Geneva meeting to push for a breakthrough in the long-running Doha round, which aims to open up world trade and help developing countries alleviate poverty. Negotiators are experiencing a renewed sense of urgency and even optimism as they work towards reaching a deal in core areas of agriculture and industrial goods next week. The goal is to finalize the outlines of the deal before the U.S. elections and change in the White House next year. Indian Commerce Minister Kamal Nath emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges of finance, food, and fuel in any potential deal. World leaders, including U.S. President George W. Bush and Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, have expressed their support for a deal. A new agreement will involve wealthy countries such as the United States, Japan, and EU nations reducing farm tariffs and subsidies to open their markets for food. In exchange, countries like India and Brazil will lower their tariffs to allow for greater access to markets for industrial goods and services. Once ministers agree on the framework, negotiators will work on applying the details to thousands of tariff lines and addressing other issues like fisheries subsidies and rules for imports with unfair pricing. The challenge now is whether ministers can resolve the differences between developed and developing nations. France, the EU's largest food producer and current president, stated that the EU has made all the concessions it can in agriculture. French Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Idrac stated at a news conference in Brussels that the shared goal is to achieve a rebalancing of the concessions already made by the EU. EU trade chief Peter Mandelson believes that EU governments have strengthened his position in seeking more concessions from other countries in the WTO negotiations. In the WTO's consensus-driven system, each of the 152 members, soon to be 153 with the addition of Cape Verde, has the power to veto. Developing countries argue that they should have to open their markets less than wealthy nations, citing the Doha round's development mandate. However, they are being asked to expose vulnerable farmers and industries to competition while rich countries continue to protect their own farmers. Wealthy countries argue that they need tangible benefits in market access in countries like India and China in order to justify making significant sacrifices in farm protection agreements at home. They believe that significant gains in trade would result from South-South trade, where developing countries trade with each other. While the common belief is that free trade leads to economic growth and benefits for all nations, some non-governmental organizations disagree, claiming that the current Doha proposals will only increase poverty for farmers and workers in poor countries and further entrench their dependence on wealthier nations. Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the U.S.-based thinktank Oakland Institute, expressed opposition to the proposed measures by communities and social movements, stating that they hinder the ability of developing countries to address the crisis. On the other hand, Pascal Lamy, a French former EU trade chief, believes that a Doha deal has the potential to reduce distortions in the world trading system and benefit poor countries by boosting food supplies in the long term and confidence in the short term. Lamy sees this deal as a rare opportunity to signal some positive news within the system. | 1 |
According to official figures released on Tuesday, India saw a 58 percent increase in greenhouse gas emissions between 1994 and 2007. This was mainly due to the coal-reliant power sector, which almost doubled its emissions during this time period. Overall emissions reached 1.9 billion tonnes in 2007 compared to 1.2 billion in 1994, with the industry and transport sectors also contributing more to Asia's third largest economy. This data confirms India's position as one of the top five carbon polluters globally. In comparison, India's emissions growth between 1994 and 2007 was more than Australia's total annual emissions. Despite this, India still has relatively low per-capita emissions, at about a tenth of the United States. The power sector was responsible for 719.30 million tonnes of emissions in 2007, up from 355.03 million tonnes in 1994, while the transport sector's emissions increased to 142.04 million tonnes from 80.28 million tonnes during the same period. During the same period, industrial emissions in India increased by slightly more than 30 percent. While agriculture's contribution to the Indian economy has decreased in recent years, emissions from this sector saw a slight decrease between 1994 and 2007. The report emphasizes India's increasing importance in U.N.-led climate negotiations to replace the Kyoto Protocol, and stresses the necessity of involving major developing countries in global efforts to combat climate change. According to figures in the government report unveiled by Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh at a conference in New Delhi, India is nearing Russia as the world's third largest emitter of greenhouse gases, with emissions totaling nearly 2.2 billion tonnes in 2007. China remains the top emitter of greenhouse gases that are causing global warming. The United States is ranked second in emissions, with Russia's emissions growing slower than India's. India's economy is expanding rapidly at 8 percent a year in an effort to reduce poverty, leading to increased investment in various industries including coal-fired power stations and renewable energy. In 2007, the emissions of the United States and China were nearly four times that of India. India's GDP energy intensity decreased by over 30 percent from 1994 to 2007 due to proactive efforts and policies. He stated that they plan to keep following this trend. Energy intensity is the measure of energy used per unit of gross domestic product. India has set a target to reduce carbon intensity by 20 to 25 percent by 2020 compared to 2005 levels. India's last official emissions report to the United Nations was in 1994, as developing countries like India are not required to report emissions annually unlike wealthier nations. The most recent UN emissions data for developed countries is from 2007. Even though India has introduced a new climate plan that highlights renewable energy, such as solar power, as a crucial component, coal continues to be the main source of energy in a country where nearly half of the 1.1 billion population lacks access to electricity. India has 10 percent of the world's coal reserves and aims to increase power generation by 78.7 gigawatts over the next five years, with the majority coming from coal, which currently makes up about 60 percent of the nation's energy mix. While developing nations now contribute more than half of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, this number is expected to rise in the near future as poorer countries adopt renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. A report supported by the government last year predicted that India's greenhouse gas emissions could reach between 4 billion tonnes and 7.3 billion tonnes by 2031, but per-capita emissions would still be below the global average. | 1 |
As wheat and rice prices rise, the once overlooked potato is now being recognized for its nutritional value and potential to feed a growing population. Potatoes, originally from Peru, can be grown in various climates and require minimal water. They mature quickly and yield more food per hectare than wheat or rice. The International Potato Center in Lima is researching the potato family to address food security concerns. The potato is being seen as a solution to hunger caused by rising food prices, a growing population, increased costs for fertilizer and diesel, and more land being used for biofuel production. The United Nations designated 2008 as the International Year of the Potato to bring attention to its potential as a valuable resource. Governments, such as Peru's, are promoting the use of potato flour in bread as a way to combat high wheat prices, with the hope that this trend will spread among various groups like school children, prisoners, and the military. Supporters claim that potato bread tastes just as delicious as wheat bread, but there are not enough mills producing potato flour. Ismael Benavides, Peru's agriculture minister, believes that people's eating habits need to change as they became addicted to wheat when it was inexpensive. Despite the potato originating in Peru 8,000 years ago, Peruvians consume fewer potatoes than Europeans. Belarus is the top consumer of potatoes in the world, with each person eating an average of 376 pounds (171 kg) annually. India has expressed a desire to double its potato production within the next five to 10 years. China, a country with a long history of famine, has transitioned from being a major rice consumer to becoming the leading producer of potatoes worldwide. In Sub-Saharan Africa, potatoes are currently experiencing significant growth compared to other crops. In Latvia, rising bread prices have led to a decrease in sales, with consumers opting to buy more potatoes instead. The developing world is seeing a surge in potato cultivation, providing an opportunity for poor farmers to increase their income as demand for the vegetable rises. Anderson mentioned that countries are considering the potato as a viable choice for ensuring food security and generating income. The potato is ranked as the third most important food crop globally, following wheat and rice. Despite being commonly associated with the plain Idaho variety in the United States, there are actually around 5,000 different types of potatoes available. Peru is contributing to a gene bank for food crops by sending thousands of seeds to the Doomsday Vault near the Arctic Circle, in preparation for any potential global disaster. Potatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, offering creative chefs the opportunity to create visually appealing dishes. Juan Carlos Mescco, a 17-year-old potato farmer in Peru, enjoys eating them in various ways throughout the day. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide long-lasting energy and have a low fat content compared to wheat. They also have fewer calories than bread, more protein than corn, and higher calcium content when boiled. Additionally, potatoes contain vitamin C, iron, potassium, and zinc. Speculators are not interested in investing in potatoes because they are not a global commodity like wheat. Wheat production is much higher than potato production, and a smaller percentage of potatoes are traded internationally. Prices for potatoes are mainly influenced by local preferences rather than global demand. The heavy and perishable nature of raw potatoes has also hindered their global trade. They are also vulnerable to being infected by pathogens, which hinders their export to prevent the spread of plant diseases. However, the drawback is that the prices in certain countries are not appealing enough to incentivize farmers to cultivate them. Locals in Peruvian markets believe that the government should step in to boost demand. Juana Villavicencio, who has been planting potatoes for 15 years and now sells them for very low prices in a market in Cusco, Peru, expressed, "Prices are low. It is not profitable to work with potatoes." Science is progressing rapidly, with German chemicals group BASF working on developing genetically modified potatoes that can resist "late blight." This disease, which caused a famine in Ireland in the 19th century and still leads to about 20 percent of potato harvest losses worldwide, is being targeted by scientists. They propose that using clean, virus-free seeds can increase yields by 30 percent and allow for export clearance. This could result in higher incomes for farmers and the opportunity for companies to sell specialty potatoes internationally, rather than just as frozen french fries or potato chips. | 1 |
In Singapore on November 15, US President Barack Obama addressed Asia Pacific leaders and discussed the state of the world economy, acknowledging signs of recovery but also cautioning that failure to rebalance the global economic system could result in more crises. During the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, officials omitted any mention of market-oriented exchange rates in their statement, following disagreements between the US and China on the issue. The statement endorsed stimulus measures to prevent a global economic downturn and called for a successful conclusion to the Doha Round of trade talks in 2010. The initial draft had included a commitment from APEC's 21 members to maintain market-oriented exchange rates based on economic fundamentals, but this was removed in the final statement. A representative from an APEC delegation, who chose to remain anonymous, stated that discussions between China and the United States regarding exchange rates had caused a delay in the statement at the conclusion of a two-day meeting. This highlights the tensions that are expected to arise when Obama visits China after imposing tariffs on Chinese tires for the first time. Beijing is concerned that this may set a precedent for further tariffs on Chinese products that are increasing in popularity in the U.S. During the APEC meeting, Obama warned against reverting to the same economic practices that led to the global recession, emphasizing the need for balanced growth. "If we don't change our current path, we will keep facing one crisis after another, which has already had severe impacts on our citizens, businesses, and governments," stated Obama. He believes that we are at a crucial moment in history where we can choose a different direction - one that focuses on creating a balanced and sustainable growth. Obama's plan involves saving more, spending less, reforming the financial system, and reducing deficits and borrowing in order to achieve this goal. Washington is also urging major exporters like China to increase their own domestic demand. Chinese President Hu Jintao has faced pressure to allow the yuan to strengthen, but he has not addressed this issue in his speeches at APEC. Instead, he has focused on criticizing what he sees as unfair trade restrictions on developing nations. When Obama visits China, the yuan will be a key topic of discussion, as it has been effectively tied to the US dollar since 2008 to protect China's economy. The US believes that an undervalued yuan is contributing to trade imbalances between the US and China. China is seeking recognition as a market economy from the US, as well as concessions on trade disputes that would make it more difficult for Washington to take action against Chinese goods. The central bank of China announced last week that it will take into account major currencies when guiding the yuan, indicating a shift from the peg. Obama arrived in Singapore late on Saturday, missing most of the day's formal talks where some leaders criticized the US for hindering free trade with policies like "Buy America" campaigns. APEC is the final major meeting of global leaders before the UN climate summit in Copenhagen in three weeks, which aims to increase efforts to combat climate change. Negotiations for the summit have stalled, but a US official stated that Obama supported a two-step plan proposed by the Danish prime minister to work towards an operational agreement first, leaving legally binding details for later. The APEC statement excluded any references to emissions reductions that were included in earlier drafts. | 1 |
The family of Jared Lee Loughner, the accused gunman in the Arizona shooting spree, expressed their sorrow on Tuesday over the "heinous events," while the congresswoman who was shot in the head showed signs of improvement. In their first public statement, the relatives of Loughner, 22, stated that it was a "very difficult time" and requested privacy. The statement, attributed to "The Loughner Family," mentioned that there are no words that can express their feelings and they wish they could make others feel better. The eight-sentence statement did not mention the young man charged in the shooting at a Tucson shopping mall that resulted in the death of six people, including a federal judge, and injured 14 others. The shooting resulted in Representative Gabrielle Giffords being in critical condition, but she was able to breathe on her own a few days after a bullet went through her brain. The family stated that they were perplexed by the incident and expressed a desire to change the tragic events of Saturday. They also conveyed their deep concern for the victims and their families, offering sincere apologies for their loss. Giffords, a 40-year-old Democrat, was in critical condition at a Tucson hospital, according to her doctor. However, she is "holding her own," responding to simple commands, and breathing without the aid of her ventilation tube. Dr. Michael Lemole, head of neurosurgery at the University Medical Center, expressed hope for her recovery, saying "She has no right to look this good. We're hopeful." He emphasized that her recovery will be gradual, with progress monitored week to week and month to month, allowing her to take her time in healing. President Barack Obama is planning to travel to Arizona on Wednesday to participate in a memorial service for the victims, which included a 9-year-old girl. Meanwhile, in Washington, the House of Representatives was set to vote on condemning the violent attack that left one of their colleagues severely injured and sparked a discussion on the aggressive nature of recent political campaigns. Loughner, the accused gunman, is currently in custody awaiting a preliminary hearing on January 24 for five federal charges, including the attempted assassination of Giffords. The parents of Loughner, Amy and Randy Loughner, were described as devastated by a neighbor, as two young men distributed a statement from the family to the media gathered outside their home in Tucson. Wayne Smith, a neighbor with tears in his eyes, expressed that it is important for people to realize that the son of Amy and Randy is not the culprit and they are devastated. He asked if others would feel the same if it were their child. A recent CBS News poll showed that a majority of Americans do not believe that heated political language played a role in the recent shootings in Arizona. In the survey, 57 percent of respondents believed that the shooting was not influenced by the harsh political tone, while 32 percent thought it was. Republicans, in particular, were least likely to see a connection, with 69 percent rejecting the idea. Although the motive for the attack was unclear, some politicians and commentators suggested that a culture of strong language and extreme beliefs could have played a role. Former President Bill Clinton warned about the impact of inflammatory language, noting the pervasive influence of the Internet. Lawmakers from both political parties have emphasized the importance of being sensitive to the words we speak, as they can impact both stable and unstable individuals. In response to the recent shooting incident involving Congresswoman Giffords, members of Congress will gather for a bipartisan prayer service on Wednesday. Colleagues of Giffords have halted much of their work to reassess their security measures following the attack. The House, currently led by Republicans, has delayed a vote on repealing the healthcare reform supported by Giffords and other Democrats. The accused gunman, Loughner, allegedly used a semi-automatic Glock pistol to open fire on Giffords and her constituents at a supermarket parking lot. Arizona Governor Jan Brewer expressed her sorrow over the tragic event in Tucson, where six loved ones were taken away in a minute, leaving the community with a sense of loss. She mentioned that it is impossible to quantify the impact of the tragedy on Tucson and the state of Arizona. Over 600 mourners attended a memorial service for the victims at St. Odilia Catholic Church in Tucson. In response to concerns about picketing at the victims' funerals by members of a Kansas fundamentalist Christian church, Arizona state lawmakers passed a bill to prevent such actions, which was promptly signed into law by Governor Brewer. The small church's members have become well-known for attending military funerals and claiming that the troops were punished by God due to the acceptance of homosexuality in the United States. They also showed up at the funeral of Elizabeth Edwards, the wife of former presidential candidate John Edwards. | 1 |
Xi's address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, a first by a Chinese leader, hinted at a potential shift in global politics amid the struggles of western democracies with rising populist nationalism. Despite being a communist state with strict restrictions on foreign investment, China surprisingly advocated for free markets at an event known for global capitalism. With Trump's protectionist stance and Europe dealing with its own issues, China sees an opportunity to take on a larger role in global economic leadership. Xi warned against protectionism in his speech, comparing it to isolating oneself in a dark room and emphasized that a trade war would benefit no one. Real estate tycoon and former reality TV personality Trump, who is set to become the U.S. president on Friday, campaigned on the promise to take a tougher stance on trade with China and either renegotiate or abandon multilateral trade agreements. His team has accused China of engaging in economic warfare against the U.S. However, Xi countered these allegations of unfair trade practices, stating that Beijing will not manipulate its currency for competitive advantage, despite Trump's repeated claims. Xi also called on all parties involved in the Paris climate agreement, which was reached about a year ago, to uphold their commitments, sending a clear message to Trump, who has criticized the deal and suggested pulling the U.S. out of it. In a demonstration of China's aspirations, several high-ranking Chinese officials accompanied Xi to the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, forming a larger and more distinguished delegation than in previous years. Many of the panels at WEF are focusing on Asia, with one titled "Asia Takes the Lead". Klaus Schwab, founder and chairman of WEF, stated that in a world of uncertainty, China is being looked to as a leader before welcoming Xi to the stage. Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt commented on Xi's speech on Twitter, noting that Xi is aiming to fill the global economic leadership vacuum with some success. Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group, tweeted that the reaction to Xi's speech at Davos was successful in all aspects. Xi's appearance is a departure from previous official Chinese speeches, coming at a time of heightened tensions between Beijing and Trump over issues such as the president's phone call with Taiwan and the "One China" policy. Despite Xi's portrayal of China as an open economy, the government has faced criticism for restricting foreign investments while state-run firms pursue acquisitions in Europe. In response to these criticisms, China's cabinet announced plans to ease limits on investment in financial institutions prior to Xi's speech. No specific details or timeline were given for the implementation of the plans. Some officials, who chose to remain anonymous, suggested that China may be positioning itself to capitalize on the increasing rift between the United States and Europe. Bob Moritz, global chairman of PricewaterhouseCoopers, expressed uncertainty about China's future direction and negotiating strategy, emphasizing the need to monitor their actions closely in the coming year. Concerns about a severe economic downturn in China caused turbulence in global markets at last year's WEF meeting. While these worries have lessened, the IMF has recently cautioned about persistent risks to China's economy, such as heavy dependence on government spending, extensive lending by state banks, and a booming property market. President Xi attempted to provide reassurance by stating that the economy has transitioned to a "new normal" focused on household consumption. Despite a sluggish global economy, he projected a 6.7 percent growth for China in 2016. However, some economists at Davos are still exercising caution. Kenneth Rogoff, an economist at Harvard University, stated that China remains a major risk, but it is not currently at the top of the list due to the high level of uncertainty in the United States. | 1 |
The World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly lowered its estimate of the number of people who contract malaria annually, attributing the decrease to rapid urbanization in Asia that has disrupted the natural habitats of disease-carrying mosquitoes. According to a report by WHO, 247 million individuals were infected with malaria globally in 2006, as opposed to the previous estimate of 350 million to 500 million. The updated report also reduced the worldwide death toll from the disease by approximately 10 percent compared to the previous assessment issued by the United Nations agency three years ago, largely due to improved calculation methods. The World Health Organization stated that it is uncertain if there was a decrease in cases and deaths from malaria between 2004 and 2006. The report revealed that 881,000 people died from malaria in 2006, a decrease from previous estimates of over 1 million deaths annually. Malaria primarily affects infants, children, and pregnant women. Significant amounts of public funding have been allocated to combat malaria through organizations such as the WHO, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Clinton Foundation. The Roll Back Malaria Partnership is calling for an increase in funding for malaria to $3.4 billion per year, up from $1.2 billion, to improve access to artemisinin-based drugs and insecticide-treated bed nets for prevention. Estimating the global prevalence of diseases is a challenging task, and public health experts often need to make substantial revisions to their initial estimates. The WHO revised its estimate of AIDS virus infections to 33 million from 40 million last year after receiving new data about the epidemic in India. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also increased its estimate of annual HIV infections by 40 percent due to more precise reporting methods. According to WHO Director-General Margaret Chan, less than one-third of the WHO's member states have reliable disease monitoring systems, making it difficult to accurately document diseases like malaria, which can be mistaken for the flu in the early stages. To address this issue, the WHO will now issue yearly malaria reports to provide decision-makers with up-to-date information on the disease. Chan emphasized the importance of reliable information and analysis, especially with the significant funding and efforts aimed at reducing the malaria burden in recent years. Novartis AG's medication Coartem is utilized for the treatment of malaria, and various other pharmaceutical companies, such as Austria's Intercell, are working on developing malaria vaccines. However, it is anticipated that these vaccines will not be available on the market for several years. Malaria is predominantly found in Africa, with the World Health Organization (WHO) estimating the number of cases based on climate conditions that impact mosquito breeding, as well as some sample surveys. In 2006, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania were identified as the countries with the highest malaria-related fatalities by the WHO. Outside of Africa, the countries most affected by malaria included India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. | 1 |
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd marked his first 100 days in office by releasing a booklet detailing his accomplishments, despite criticism from skeptics who believe little has changed since he assumed power. The center-left Labor Party, led by Rudd, won the elections 97 days prior on Nov. 24, 2007, putting an end to almost 12 years of conservative leadership. While some newspapers have started to evaluate Rudd's first 100 days, there are concerns that his government has established numerous committees and reviews but has yet to make significant decisions. Sydney Morning Herald Political Correspondent Phillip Coorey expressed his doubts about Rudd's approach, suggesting that Australia may be heading towards unnecessary complications due to the excessive reliance on committees. In Rudd's 55-page book, he highlights his decision to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, deploy additional troops to East Timor, and plan to withdraw Australian combat forces from Iraq as significant accomplishments. However, Rudd emphasized that his government's apology to Aborigines for past mistreatment was the most impactful change to Australia since his election. The Sydney Morning Herald noted that Rudd had established a new committee or inquiry every four days, while the Herald Sun reported that he had initiated at least 47 committees, with an additional 50 promised during the election. Rudd defended his actions by pointing out that the previous conservative government had initiated 495 inquiries and reviews in just one year. Rudd stated that it is a responsible move for a new government to identify areas that require review for the future. Political analyst Nick Economou from Monash University in Melbourne commended Rudd's initial actions in government, noting that he aimed to establish a national consensus for his agenda. Economou believes Rudd is doing well, particularly in handling the apology issue, and suggests that even if he were to be dismissed tomorrow, he has already made a significant mark in Australian political history. He stated that Rudd's interest in committees and reviews, as well as his upcoming ideas summit with 1,000 participants in April, were intended to support the government in implementing its plans. He explained that Rudd has specific goals in mind but is seeking input and collaboration from others to achieve them. Rudd is clear about his objectives but is focused on finding the right process to reach a consensus. | 1 |
The European Union and United States will come to an agreement at a summit on Monday that climate change is a significant challenge that requires immediate and ongoing global action, as stated in a draft document obtained by Reuters. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, visiting Washington for the first time since becoming EU president, is aiming to persuade the Bush administration to implement tangible measures to reduce the greenhouse gases linked to climate change. Merkel is optimistic that the joint statement will set the stage for a more comprehensive agreement on addressing global warming at the upcoming June G8 summit she will host in Heiligendamm, Germany. She expressed her belief that progress has been made on climate and energy efficiency, and hopes to build on this foundation for a broader agreement involving the G8 nations, as well as possibly India and China. The declaration regarding energy security, efficiency, and climate change will be introduced in conjunction with a broader "Transatlantic Economic Partnership" aimed at reducing costly non-tariff barriers to trade between the EU and the United States. As part of this agreement, the partners will seek to standardize regulatory practices and collaborate on matters such as intellectual property, trade security, investment, and financial markets. A council, headed by EU Industry Commissioner Guenter Verheugen and White House economic adviser Allan Hubbard, will be established to oversee the alignment of regulations and submit yearly reports to EU and US leaders. Alongside the planned agenda, Merkel and Bush will also discuss various international issues, including Iran's nuclear program and peace efforts in the Middle East. Recent tensions in Russian relations have come to the forefront following a confrontational speech by President Vladimir Putin denouncing US missile defense plans in central Europe and suspending Moscow's obligations under a key arms treaty. Washington believes that the shield would protect against threats from countries like Iran and North Korea, while Moscow views it as a provocation and infringement on its former sphere of influence. Merkel emphasized the importance of discussing this issue with Russia through the NATO-Russia council, although she clarified that it would not be the main focus of her discussions with Bush. German officials have praised the joint declaration on climate change as a positive step for the Bush administration, but the statement does not include any specific commitments. The draft acknowledges the need to stabilize greenhouse gases and recognizes the findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which recently reported on the potential consequences of rising temperatures. It calls for the development and implementation of advanced technologies to reduce global emissions and promises a collaborative effort to achieve results at Heiligendamm and cooperate leading up to a crucial U.N. climate change meeting in Bali, Indonesia in December. During her fourth trip to Washington, Merkel has formed a strong bond with Bush, improving relations that suffered under her predecessor, Gerhard Schroeder, during the Iraq war. However, she faces a tough challenge in convincing Bush to commit to global measures to combat climate change before the upcoming Heiligendamm meeting. German officials are worried that the escalating tensions between the US and Russia over the missile shield and the impending dispute over Kosovo's independence could overshadow the summit scheduled for June 6-8. | 1 |
While speaking at an Iftar event for journalists covering foreign affairs in Bangladesh, he expressed pride in her invitation to the G7, a group known as the influential leaders of the world. The ruling Awami League's central sub-committee on international affairs organized the event, with General Secretary Obaidul Quader as the chief guest. Ambassador Mohammad Zamir, Chairman of the sub-committee, International Affairs Secretary Shammi Ahmed, and other members like Barrister Shah Ali Farhad and Nadia Choudhury were also in attendance. The Prime Minister is currently in Canada to participate in the G7 outreach session, invited by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This elite club has invited Hasina, the leader of a developing country, for the third time, which Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali described as "unprecedented". Hasina previously attended meetings in Japan in 2016 and Italy in 2001. Ali stated that this recognition of the prime minister's strong role in world peace and development is also a recognition of her efforts in addressing climate change, women and children affairs, and the blue economy. The other members of the grouping include France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US. The prime minister is scheduled to discuss the topic of 'enhancing resilience through integrated adaptation planning, emergency preparedness, and recovery'. She will meet with Trudeau on Sunday before heading back to Dhaka on Tuesday. The Awami League's sub-committee on international affairs introduced themselves to journalists during the Iftar event, as the committee has recently been established. Shammi Ahmed encouraged journalists to provide constructive criticism when discussing government activists. | 1 |
A wealthy supermarket owner is the frontrunner to win Panama's presidential election on Sunday, with voters seeking reassurances about the economy during the global crisis. Conservative Ricardo Martinelli, 57, is leading in polls over ruling party candidate Balbina Herrera, whose past ties to a military strongman and anti-US stance have caused concern among some voters. The current president's party, PRD, has support from lower-income voters but has seen a decline in popularity due to rising prices and crime. Frustrated with unfulfilled promises, teacher Jose Cedeno, 52, spends a significant portion of his salary on increasingly expensive food and is eager for stability. Driven by the construction of luxury apartments, trade between the US and Asia passing through Panama's renowned canal, and a strong banking sector, Panama's economy based on the dollar has outperformed the rest of Latin America with growth rates nearing or exceeding double digits for the past two years. However, analysts are predicting a decrease in growth to 3 percent or less this year due to a decrease in credit availability, a decline in canal traffic, and a slowdown in activity in Panama's Caribbean free-trade zone. This has become a concern for voters who are frustrated with high inflation and widespread crime. In an April 23 poll, Martinelli was leading Herrera by 14 points and only needs to receive more votes than his opponent to win, even if he does not reach 50 percent of the votes. A victory for Martinelli would go against the trend of leftward shifts in many recent Latin American elections. As a self-made businessman educated in the US who owns Panama's largest supermarket chain and has served as a minister of Panama Canal affairs, Martinelli has pledged to invest heavily in infrastructure to create jobs if he is elected. Martinelli expressed his desire to implement a flat tax rate ranging from 10 to 20 percent. This would involve increasing taxes for the banking and insurance industries while reducing them for small business owners. His well-funded campaign, which surpassed Herrera's, included images of him working in a banana plantation and collecting garbage to appeal to lower-income voters who typically support the PRD. Additionally, his charity that supports education also contributed to his appeal among voters. According to Ercilia Ramos, a 60-year-old cattle farmer, Martinelli's wealth does not make him a thief as he is known for giving back to the less fortunate. The PRD's Herrera had a conflict with Washington in the past due to her involvement in protests against former U.S. President George H.W. Bush during his visit to Panama following the 1989 U.S. invasion that removed military dictator Gen. Manuel Noriega. Despite facing challenges in separating herself from her previous connections to Noriega, who is currently serving a prison sentence in Florida for drug trafficking and money laundering, Herrera, 54, asserts her commitment to maintaining strong relations with the U.S. Her campaign platform aligns closely with that of Martinelli's. Both candidates have stated that they plan to address issues of crime, inflation, poverty through education and infrastructure without significantly increasing the budget deficit. Foreign investors believe that neither candidate will negatively impact Panama's economy or investment climate. Developer Roger Khafif, who built the $450 million Trump Ocean Club in Panama City, expressed confidence in the country's business-friendly environment and minimal government interference, regardless of the election outcome. An agricultural engineer who transitioned into politics, Herrera has experience as a mayor, lawmaker, and housing minister. Raised in a tough Panama City neighborhood by a single mother who worked as a house cleaner, Herrera's background resonates with voters like Maria Zuniga, who sees her as tough on crime. Former President Guillermo Endara, 72, is a distant third in polls with only 5 percent support. Panamanians will also be voting for a new legislature on Sunday. | 1 |
The European Union and Southeast Asian countries have agreed to increase political and economic cooperation, with the exception of Myanmar hindering a complete free trade agreement. Foreign ministers met in Nuremberg, Germany and approved a declaration on Enhanced Partnership, committing to work together on security, energy, environmental, and development issues. They also vowed to collaborate on combating terrorism, money laundering, cyber crime, drug trafficking, and addressing climate change. EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana expressed satisfaction with the progress of relations between the two sides, not just in economic and trade matters, but also in politics. He emphasized the shared values and goals between the EU and the Southeast Asian countries. Analysts believe that ASEAN is seeking closer ties with Europe in order to counterbalance China's increasing power, and is also aiming to create its own single market by 2015, following the success of the European Union. The EU is interested in accessing the potential of a region with a population of 500 million through a free trade agreement, but negotiations have been stalled due to ASEAN's insistence on including Myanmar. The EU has imposed sanctions on Myanmar due to the military's refusal to recognize a 1990 election result favoring the pro-democracy party. EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Walder has called for ASEAN countries to push for human rights improvements in Myanmar, including the release of Aung San Suu Kyi. She added that the EU hopes to see positive changes in Burma/Myanmar. The EU is currently working towards individual cooperation agreements with various countries in the ASEAN region, including Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and eventually Vietnam, while awaiting a comprehensive EU-ASEAN trade deal. The EU has expressed its desire for a free trade agreement between the two blocs, but recognizes the need to engage with each country separately. While progress is being made with Indonesia, issues remain unresolved with Singapore and Thailand due to a military takeover. The EU also plans to pursue a similar agreement with Vietnam, focusing on both human rights issues and trade disputes. EU officials emphasize their ongoing human rights dialogue with Vietnam, contrasting the lack of such dialogue with Myanmar. | 1 |
Trump, a member of the Republican party, has accused there being widespread voter fraud in the November 3 election without presenting any evidence to support his claims. Despite not yet acknowledging Joe Biden's victory since he secured the Electoral College more than two weeks ago, Trump's announcement on Monday was the closest he has come to accepting defeat. The Trump campaign's legal attempts to challenge the election results in key battleground states have largely been unsuccessful, leading to a growing number of Republican leaders, business executives, and national security experts urging the president to start the transition process. Biden won 306 electoral votes, well surpassing the 270 needed to win, compared to Trump's 232. Additionally, Biden leads by over 6 million votes in the national popular vote. He has started to announce members of his team before receiving government funding or a concession from Trump. Democrats have criticized the president for not accepting the election results, accusing him of undermining US democracy. The General Services Administration gave Biden permission to begin the transition process, with Administrator Emily Murphy stating that he will now have access to resources that were previously denied due to legal challenges. Michigan officials certifying Biden as the winner in their state further diminishes Trump's chances of changing the election outcome through legal means. Trump and his advisers have stated that they will continue to pursue legal options, but a recent tweet from Trump indicates that the White House is starting to accept the need to move forward. Trump expressed confidence in the strength of their case, but also acknowledged the importance of putting the country's best interests first. Despite this, Trump's adviser clarified that the tweet was not a concession, likening the situation to candidates receiving briefings during a campaign. The Biden transition team has announced plans to start meetings with federal officials to discuss the coronavirus pandemic and national security. I am grateful to Emily Murphy at GSA for her unwavering commitment and loyalty to our nation. She has faced harassment, threats, and mistreatment, and I do not want this to extend to her, her family, or GSA employees. Our case remains strong, and we will persevere. The decision made by the GSA will provide federal funds and an official office for Biden's team to conduct their transition until he assumes office on January 20th. This move also allows for Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to receive regular national security briefings, just like President Trump. According to two Trump administration officials, Biden's agency review teams may start interacting with Trump's agency officials as early as Tuesday. In addition, Biden has announced key members of his foreign policy team, including Antony Blinken as Secretary of State, John Kerry as special climate envoy, Jake Sullivan as national security adviser, and Linda Thomas-Greenfield as US ambassador to the United Nations, all of whom have extensive government experience. The 78-year-old Democrat is putting together a team from his home in Delaware to lead the country during a major public health crisis. He is considering appointing former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen as the next Treasury secretary, according to two Biden allies who spoke anonymously. Biden also appointed Cuban-born lawyer Alejandro Mayorkas to lead the Department of Homeland Security, signaling a shift away from Trump's strict immigration policies. | 1 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the world to come together to create a new climate treaty by 2009, with specific greenhouse gas reductions to be determined following UN discussions in Bali. He emphasized the importance of reaching an agreement during the Dec. 3-14 meeting to begin negotiations on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. Ban stressed the urgency of addressing climate change, describing it as a critical challenge requiring immediate action to address its various impacts. Despite disagreements among countries on the specifics of a new treaty, Ban urged swift action and emphasized the need for all nations to participate in efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions. Washington has been resistant to including scientific evidence supporting significant reductions in emissions by 2020 in the negotiation guidelines. Ban stated that negotiations on this matter will need to take place in the future, with Washington sharing a similar perspective. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the U.N. climate panel's recommendation of a 25-40 percent reduction to mitigate the severe effects of climate change. Ban also stressed the need for a clear roadmap to address climate issues, with the goal of reaching an international agreement by 2009 at a meeting in Copenhagen. The United States, along with Japan, Canada, and Australia, argue that even a non-binding reference to a 25-to-40 percent range could impact the negotiations. Paula Dobriansky, US Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs, stated, "We do not want to predetermine the outcome of this process." However, the European Union maintained that wealthy nations must demonstrate leadership to persuade developing countries like China and India to reduce their emissions from fossil fuels. German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel emphasized the importance of establishing a starting point and clear goals for progress, rather than just planning to reconvene the following year. Ban urged all countries, including the United States, to exhibit flexibility. He also mentioned that while global warming poses a threat, it also presents an opportunity for innovative solutions that could generate employment and alleviate poverty in developing nations across Africa and Asia. Australia's new Prime Minister Kevin Rudd recently submitted formal documentation to Ban confirming the country's adherence to the Kyoto Protocol, marking the United States as the sole wealthy nation not bound by emission limits under the U.N. agreement until 2012. Rudd, whose Labor Party won a significant election triumph last month, noted that Australia is already feeling the effects of climate change, such as rivers drying up and disturbances to the Great Barrier Reef. He warned that current events could be a sign of things to come. The discussions are expected to conclude by Friday or early Saturday, as annual U.N. climate meetings typically involve intense negotiations and late-night sessions. The United Nations is aiming to reach an agreement by the end of 2009 so that parliaments have three years to ratify it, allowing for the direction of significant investments in various forms of energy production. The ratification process for the Kyoto Protocol, which came into effect in 2005, was delayed by the United States' decision not to join in 2001. Failure to initiate talks at Bali could jeopardize the development of a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. Currently, 36 Kyoto nations, including Australia, have committed to reducing emissions by an average of 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2008-12. The United States contends that the Kyoto agreement would harm its economy and unfairly does not include targets for major developing countries from 2008-2012. | 1 |
On Thursday, the government announced plans to reduce tax relief on pension savings for approximately 100,000 higher earners, aiming to generate 4 billion pounds annually and contribute to addressing a significant budget deficit. This decision, along with recent measures such as eliminating child benefits for higher earners, may serve as justification for the coalition government's upcoming spending review. Additionally, the government revealed intentions to eliminate, combine, or restructure 481 semi-independent agencies, potentially resulting in the loss of numerous jobs. These actions, along with other recent initiatives like addressing government waste and increasing university fees, indicate the government's intention to significantly reduce departmental budgets by at least 25%. Even the queen is implementing cost-cutting measures in response to the challenging economic conditions. A spokesperson announced that the Queen has decided to cancel a scheduled Christmas party at Buckingham Palace due to the challenging circumstances facing the country. The Treasury revealed on their website that they will be reducing the annual allowance for tax-privileged pension savings to 50,000 pounds from 255,000 pounds starting in April 2011. This change will impact 100,000 individuals, with 80 percent of them earning more than 100,000 pounds. Additionally, the lifetime allowance will be decreased to 1.5 million pounds from 1.8 million pounds beginning in April 2012, resulting in a total annual revenue increase of 4 billion pounds. These pension reforms may provoke discontent among many higher-income earners, who traditionally support Osborne's Conservative Party, the leading members of the coalition government that assumed power in May. Numerous newspapers have already engaged in conflict with the government regarding its decision to eliminate child benefits for individuals making more than 44,000 pounds. Treasury officials argue that the actions are just and necessary, and the reasoning behind them will be evident on Oct 20. It is anticipated that Osborne will make significant cuts to the welfare budget. Business organizations have expressed approval of the legislative changes, stating that the situation could have been more severe. The recent announcement is not as negative as initially anticipated. John Cridland, CBI Deputy Director-General, mentioned that the government had thought about reducing the annual allowance to 30,000 pounds. However, the Labour Party opposed this idea, stating that it would negatively impact families with lower incomes. David Hanson, a Labour treasury spokesman, assured that under their proposed plans, individuals earning less than 130,000 pounds would not be affected. He criticized the government for taxing individuals based on their desire to save for retirement rather than their actual income level. | 1 |
Analysts said that the assassination of Benazir Bhutto has set the United States back in its quest for a stable, democratic Pakistan that can help in the fight against Islamic extremism. Possible outcomes of the killing include riots by Bhutto's supporters and the worst-case scenario of Pakistan becoming a nuclear-armed, unstable Islamic state. Financial investors, who are already aware of Pakistan's political risks, stated that the assassination was not unexpected but ongoing instability would increase those risks. Stephen Cohen from the Brookings Institution described Bhutto's death as a setback for the idea of a liberal, moderate Pakistan and expressed concern for the country's future, warning that its deterioration would have negative consequences for its neighbors, Europe, and the United States. According to Cohen, the United States may not be able to take significant action at this point as they had previously supported Musharraf over Benazir's requests until recently. The US had made significant efforts to bring the exiled former prime minister back to Pakistan and convinced Musharraf to step down as military leader in favor of a power-sharing arrangement with her. However, now the US is facing multiple challenges, from a stalled democratic transition to an increased risk of attacks by extremists, as noted by South Asia expert Frederic Grare from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Grare also pointed out that leaders of major political parties are being targeted for assassination. He stated that this weakens the political parties and does not bode well for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. President George W. Bush urged Pakistanis to honor Bhutto's legacy by continuing with the democratic process she fought for. U.S. officials hope that Pakistan will proceed with the planned elections on Jan. 8. Security analyst Anthony Cordesman believes that Bhutto's death has worsened an already unstable political situation, as there is no leader who can immediately work towards political stability and bridge the divide between Musharraf and the Pakistani people. Analysts are cautioning that in a country known for conspiracy theories and intense politics, blame could be pointed in various directions following the assassination, leading to grief and anger that may escalate into violence. Lisa Curtis of the Heritage Foundation emphasized the importance of keeping peace on the streets of Pakistan as the top priority, advising against the imposition of emergency rule by Musharraf. Some experts also questioned Musharraf's ability to effectively combat terrorism, highlighting the failure to protect a prominent politician in a relatively secure area and raising doubts about his capabilities in addressing issues in more volatile regions where al-Qaeda and the Taliban are believed to be thriving. Win Thin, senior currency strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co, inquired about the safety of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal during crises. According to US officials, the assessment remains unchanged despite recent turmoil over Musharraf's emergency rule. Cordesman of CSIS mentioned that Islamabad had received assistance from the US and studied other nations' strategies to enhance the security of its nuclear facilities. However, he pointed out that without transparency, it would be difficult for outsiders to definitively comment on the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons without risking their credibility. | 1 |
Russia's opposition expressed concerns on Tuesday that Vladimir Putin may resort to using force to suppress their protests following the detention of hundreds of demonstrators challenging his election victory. Despite months of peaceful protests, over 500 people, including opposition leaders, were taken into custody by riot police during unsanctioned protests in Moscow and St Petersburg. This crackdown indicates Putin's waning tolerance for demands for democracy and political reforms. Opposition leaders like Boris Nemtsov and novelist Boris Akunin fear that future rallies will also be met with force. He stated that there is no point in organizing any peaceful marches or rallies as it will only provoke aggression from the authorities. The police claimed that their actions were lawful, and Putin's spokesperson defended their intervention, stating that the police acted professionally and within the boundaries of the law during both legal and illegal opposition activities. After serving as prime minister for four years, Putin was re-elected as president after winning nearly 64 percent of the votes in Sunday's election. He previously held the presidency from 2000 to 2008. Despite some officers forcibly removing protesters, there was a sense of restraint in order to prevent criticism of Putin as a dictator. While some protesters were injured, police tried to minimize casualties at the main protest on Pushkin Square in Moscow. Harsher tactics were reportedly used against a group attempting to protest at Lubyanka Square, in front of the Federal Security Service headquarters. Protesters were forcefully removed in St. Petersburg, Putin's hometown, raising concerns among foreign investors about potential clashes between police and protesters. This could harm the investment climate and hinder reforms needed to reduce Russia's dependence on energy exports. Russian stocks experienced a significant drop after Fitch warned of potential confrontation, with both dollar-based and rouble-traded indexes falling by more than 3 percent. Critics allege that Putin only allows controlled protests to appease urban demonstrators frustrated with his long rule. He could also make some conciliatory gestures to satisfy the opposition. As an example, the Kremlin has initiated a review of 32 criminal cases, including the imprisonment of former oil magnate Mikhail Khodorkovsky and the denial of registration to a liberal opposition group that has been excluded from elections. However, Putin, a former KGB agent, will make every effort to stop what he sees as more radical protesters from challenging his third term as president. He will handle dissent harshly. "We witnessed the dictator's fear in his eyes." At the rally at Pushkin Square, opposition leader Ilya Yashin observed vulnerability and uncertainty in a man, referring to Putin shedding a tear during his victory speech on Sunday. Yashin questioned the presence of troops and riot police in the capital, wondering if a war had started. The US ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul, expressed concern about the arrests and emphasized the importance of freedom of assembly and speech, which are universal values. The Russian Foreign Ministry responded with a tweet, criticizing McFaul and stating that Russian police had shown more restraint than US officers handling anti-capitalist protesters. The United States and several European countries are calling for a thorough and unbiased investigation into allegations of voting irregularities in the recent election. While some improvements were noted compared to the previous parliamentary poll, international observers still believe the election was unfair and heavily biased towards Putin. Despite criticisms from some observers, Russia's Foreign Ministry found the report to be balanced overall. However, many Russians have become disillusioned with the electoral process and Putin's leadership. "I used to admire Putin, similar to any woman who appreciates a charming man. However, I now believe he is becoming senile. No one can remain in authority indefinitely," commented Vasilisa Maslova, a 35-year-old fashion trade worker, at Pushkin Square. | 1 |
Her statement was made during a significant meeting at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where she emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of refugees and migrants regardless of their status. She praised UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for organizing the first-ever Summit on Refugees and Migrants, highlighting the need for mutual trust, shared responsibility, and inclusiveness to address the refugee crisis. The prime minister also called on countries to come to a consensus on universal principles during the summit, where the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants was adopted by delegations from around the world. The text outlines bold commitments to address current issues and prepare for future challenges, including initiating negotiations for an international conference on migration in 2018, protecting the human rights of refugees and migrants, ensuring education for refugee and migrant children, preventing gender-based violence, supporting countries hosting refugees, ending the detention of children for migration status, finding new homes for refugees needing resettlement, and strengthening global governance of migration. Sheikh Hasina emphasized the need for a robust and action-oriented blueprint to deal with large movements of refugees, within a broader development context. Migration should be seen as a reality and freedom enhancer, and a Global Compact on Migration should address gaps in migration governance and align with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. She stated that the proposed migration compact should include ambitious and enforceable elements and modalities, while also being balanced and flexible. She emphasized the importance of promoting tolerance and understanding to accommodate migrants and refugees, and noted that the compact must address the protection needs of those displaced by climate change. As the current Chair of the Global Forum on Migration and Development, Bangladesh is willing to contribute to the development of the agreement. Prior to addressing the plenary session, the prime minister met with Myanmar's State Counsellor and Foreign Minister, Aung San Suu Kyi. Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Janet Scotland also visited her at the headquarters of the United Nations. | 1 |
Australian leader John Howard is facing the risk of losing his seat in the upcoming election, which would make him the first prime minister to do so in nearly eight decades. Changes to the electoral boundaries in his safe Sydney seat of Bennelong have made it more competitive, with a swing of around 4 percent needed to defeat him. The increase in Asian migrants in the area, particularly Chinese and Koreans who now make up 20 percent of voters, is also seen as a challenge for Howard, who is seeking a fifth term in office. Some voters believe that Howard's past use of the "race card" in elections, particularly with his stance on boatpeople, is not the type of leadership that is needed. In this election, the opposition Labor party has selected a well-known candidate, former journalist Maxine McKew, to challenge long-time incumbent Howard in the seat he has held since 1974. McKew, who recently moved into the area, is currently ahead of Howard in polls and with betting agencies. Howard, realizing the challenge he faces in his own constituency, has been actively campaigning in Bennelong, meeting with residents and attending local events. The Granny Smith Apple Festival last Saturday became a lively election rally with both Howard and McKew in attendance. Carrying signs and balloons, many supporters of both candidates engaged in a loud confrontation. John Booth, the editor of the local newspaper The Weekly Times, noted that this was the first time in 21 years that Howard had participated in the festival. Booth believes that Howard is facing tough competition and may lose his seat, as even previous supporters are now calling for a change. The suburb of Bennelong, named after a prominent Aboriginal figure in Australian history, is located in Sydney's affluent northern suburbs. Initially a conservative, middle-class electorate, the area has evolved over time to include more working-class Labor suburbs to the west. Issues concerning economic management, the Iraq war, climate change, and workplace laws are important in Bennelong, much like in the national campaign. However, the presence of a significant number of Asian-Australian voters, including 12,000 Chinese and 5,000 Koreans, sets Bennelong apart. Immigration and Australia-Asia relations are key concerns in this diverse electorate, where half of the residents were either born overseas or have immigrant parents. Koh mentioned that Asian voters in Bennelong still remember Howard's anti-immigration comments in 1988 and his government's efforts to gain support from Pauline Hanson's anti-immigration supporters in the 2001 election. He highlighted Howard's history of using divisive tactics, which has made many people suspicious. In contrast, Booth pointed out that Labor has emphasized its Asian connections by showcasing a former state politician and his Asian wife, as well as leader Kevin Rudd, who is fluent in Mandarin. Rudd's ability to converse with Chinese President Hu Jintao at a recent summit in Sydney has earned him support from the Asian communities in the city. Koh added that the Korean and Chinese vote could play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the election between John Howard and Maxine McKew. | 1 |
Critics have been pleased to see shifts in Trump's campaign positions, but this has upset some of his supporters. However, Trump has a history of modifying his positions during the campaign, so he could change his stance again before or after taking office on Jan 20. One example of this is his changing position on prosecuting Hillary Clinton. During the campaign, Trump promised to prosecute Clinton over her use of a private email server and alleged abuses of her position. However, in a New York Times interview on Nov 22, Trump indicated that he no longer wanted to pursue prosecution, stating "I want to move forward, I don't want to move back." I have no intention of causing harm to the Clintons. I truly do not want to do so. However, when asked if he was completely ruling out the idea of investigating Clinton, he responded with a "no." Trump has dismissed climate change as a hoax, expressing a desire to withdraw the United States from the 2015 Paris Agreement involving nearly 200 nations. He plans to focus on developing affordable coal, shale, and oil instead. A source on Trump's transition team stated on Nov 12 that his advisers were exploring options to circumvent the four-year process for exiting the climate accord. When questioned in an interview with the Times on Nov 22 about whether he planned to remove America from the forefront of addressing climate change, Trump responded, "I am considering it. We will examine the issue closely." When asked if he believed human activity contributes to climate change, he acknowledged, "I believe there is a connection. There is some correlation." "It all depends on the amount." In the campaign, Trump promised to get rid of the Affordable Care Act implemented by President Obama, calling it a failure. He proposed replacing it with a plan that would give more power to states over Medicaid and allow insurers to sell plans nationwide. However, in a recent interview with the Wall Street Journal, Trump mentioned the possibility of keeping certain parts of the law, such as allowing parents to keep adult children on their insurance until age 26 and preventing insurers from denying coverage to those with pre-existing conditions. Trump stated that Obamacare will either be revised or repealed and replaced. During his campaign, Trump promised to build a wall along the US-Mexican border to reduce illegal immigration and have Mexico pay for it. He also discussed deporting millions of illegal immigrants and suggested a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country to address terrorism. Trump later adjusted his language, proposing a temporary suspension of immigration from regions considered to be exporting terrorism. In an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes," Trump confirmed his plan to build a wall, mentioning it could be a combination of wall and fence. He mentioned that he would use a fence in certain areas and a wall in others because he is skilled in construction. When asked about deporting illegal immigrants, he stated that the focus would be on those with criminal records, estimating there could be 2 to 3 million of them. Trump also expressed support for the use of waterboarding and other harsh interrogation techniques on terrorism suspects. During an interview with the New York Times on November 22, Trump mentioned being struck by Marine General James Mattis' response when asked about waterboarding. Mattis reportedly said that he would perform better with a pack of cigarettes and a couple of beers than with torture. Although Trump stated that this response did not change his opinion, he was impressed by the idea that waterboarding may not be as effective as some people believe. | 1 |
Modi did not go into detail about these concerns during his speech at the Sydney Dialogue, a conference centered on emerging, crucial, and cyber technologies. However, authorities in India and other places have raised alarms about the potential dangers of cryptocurrencies being utilized by terrorist organizations and organized crime, as well as the destabilizing threat they pose to national economies. While praising the possibilities offered by technology in the digital era, Modi also expressed caution about digital currencies, specifically mentioning cryptocurrency and Bitcoin. "It is crucial for all democratic nations to collaborate on this issue and ensure that it does not fall into the wrong hands, which could negatively impact our youth," Modi stated. Indian officials who are currently working on drafting regulations are expected to suggest a ban on all transactions and payments involving cryptocurrencies. However, investors may still be allowed to hold cryptocurrencies as assets, similar to gold, bonds, and stocks, as reported by the Economic Times newspaper on Wednesday. Prime Minister Modi led a meeting to discuss India's stance on cryptocurrencies on Saturday, and the Economic Times mentioned that the draft regulations could be presented to his cabinet for review within the next two to three weeks. In September, Chinese regulators prohibited all cryptocurrency transactions and mining activities. The value of Bitcoin, the world's largest cryptocurrency, has doubled since the beginning of the year and is currently around $60,000. In May 2021, India's digital currency market was estimated to be worth $6.6 billion, a significant increase from $923 million in April 2020, according to data from blockchain platform Chainalysis. | 1 |
Asia Correspondent Paul Eckert reports that analysts believe the assassination of Benazir Bhutto has set the United States back in its efforts to find a stable, democratic partner in Pakistan to combat Islamic extremism. The potential consequences of her death range from street riots to the troubling possibility of Pakistan becoming a nuclear-armed, unstable Islamic state. Financial investors, already wary of Pakistan's political risk, fear that ongoing instability will only increase the risk. Stephen Cohen of the Brookings Institution expressed concern about the impact of Bhutto's death on the idea of a moderate Pakistan, warning of unpredictable and unpleasant consequences for the region and beyond. Cohen stated that it is likely too late for the United States to make a significant impact, as they heavily supported President Pervez Musharraf and ignored Benazir Bhutto's requests for communication until recently. The US dedicated a lot of effort and political capital to bring Bhutto back to Pakistan and convinced Musharraf to step down as military leader in favor of elections and power-sharing with her. However, the situation now is dire, with decreased prospects for a democratic transition and heightened risks of attacks from radical groups, according to South Asia expert Frederic Grare. Mainstream party leaders are being targeted for assassination. He stated that this weakens the political parties and is not a good sign for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. President George W. Bush encouraged Pakistanis to honor Bhutto's memory by continuing the democratic process she fought for. U.S. officials expressed hope that Pakistan would proceed with the scheduled elections on January 8. Security analyst Anthony Cordesman noted that Bhutto's death exacerbated an already unstable political situation, as there is no other prominent figure who can bring political stability and bridge the gap between Musharraf and the Pakistani people. Analysts cautioned that in a country known for conspiracy theories and intense politics, accusations would fly in various directions following the assassination, leading to potential violence fueled by grief and anger. Lisa Curtis from the Heritage Foundation emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in Pakistan, advising against Musharraf implementing emergency measures to achieve this. Some analysts also raised doubts about Musharraf's ability to effectively combat terrorism, questioning his capability to address security challenges in remote tribal regions where groups like al-Qaeda and the Taliban are said to be flourishing. Win Thin, a senior currency strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co, inquired about the security of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal during times of crisis. U.S. officials maintained that the weapons were secure despite recent turmoil over Musharraf's declaration of emergency rule. Cordesman of CSIS noted that Islamabad had received assistance from the U.S. and studied other countries' policies to enhance safety measures for its nuclear facilities. However, he questioned whether there was enough transparency for outsiders to confidently assess the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons, warning that making definitive statements could lead to discreditation. | 1 |
The rising prices of wheat and rice have led to a newfound appreciation for the humble potato, which is now seen as a nutritious crop with the potential to feed the world affordably. Potatoes, originally from Peru, can thrive in various climates and require minimal water. They can be harvested in as little as 50 days and produce two to four times more food per hectare than wheat or rice. Pamela Anderson, director of the International Potato Center in Lima, believes that the potato could help address food shortages and ensure food security globally. The potato is being seen as a solution to hunger caused by rising food prices, population growth, increased costs for fertilizer and diesel, and more land being used for biofuel production. The United Nations declared 2008 the International Year of the Potato to bring attention to its potential as a valuable resource. Governments, like Peru's, are promoting the use of potato flour in bread as a way to combat rising wheat prices and provide food to various groups, with the hope that this trend will continue to grow. Supporters argue that potato flour tastes just as good as wheat bread, but there are not enough mills producing it. Ismael Benavides, Peru's agriculture minister, believes that people's eating habits need to change, as they became addicted to wheat when it was cheap. Despite the potato originating in Peru 8,000 years ago, Peruvians consume fewer potatoes than Europeans. Belarus is the world leader in potato consumption, with each person in the country eating an average of 376 pounds (171 kg) annually. India aims to double its potato production in the next five to 10 years, according to food experts. China, a country known for its history of devastating famines and heavy rice consumption, has now emerged as the leading producer of potatoes globally. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the potato has seen significant growth compared to other crops. In Latvia, rising bread prices have led to a decrease in sales by 10-15 percent in the first two months of the year, while potato purchases have increased by 20 percent. The developing world is witnessing a surge in potato cultivation, offering a potential opportunity for impoverished farmers to increase their income as demand for the crop rises. Anderson stated that countries are considering the potato as a viable choice for ensuring food security and generating income. The potato is ranked as the world's third most crucial food crop, following wheat and rice. While corn is predominantly grown for animal feed, potatoes come in approximately 5,000 varieties, contrary to the common association with the bland Idaho type. Peru is contributing to a gene bank for food crops by sending thousands of seeds to the Doomsday Vault near the Arctic Circle, which was established as a precaution in the event of a global catastrophe. Potatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes, offering creative chefs the opportunity to create visually appealing dishes. Juan Carlos Mescco, a 17-year-old potato farmer in Peru, enjoys eating potatoes in various forms throughout the day. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly and have low fat content compared to wheat. They also have fewer calories than bread and more protein and calcium when boiled. In addition, potatoes contain vitamin C, iron, potassium, and zinc. Speculators are not interested in potatoes because they are not a global commodity like wheat. Wheat production is almost double that of potatoes, and only about 5 percent of potatoes are traded internationally. Prices for potatoes are driven by local tastes rather than international demand. Global trade in potatoes has been slow due to their weight and susceptibility to rotting during transit. They are also vulnerable to being infected by pathogens, which hinders their exportation in order to prevent the spread of plant diseases. However, the drawback is that prices in certain countries are not enticing enough to incentivize farmers to cultivate them. Individuals in Peruvian markets suggest that the government should intervene to boost demand. Juana Villavicencio, who has been planting potatoes for 15 years and now sells them for very low prices in a market in Cusco, in Peru's southern Andes, expressed, "Prices are low. It is not profitable to work with potatoes." Science is progressing rapidly, with German chemicals group BASF working on developing genetically modified potatoes that can resist "late blight." This disease, which caused famine in Ireland in the 19th century and still results in 20 percent of potato harvest losses worldwide, is a major concern. Researchers believe that by using clean, virus-free seeds, farmers can increase their yields by 30 percent and gain approval for exporting their crops. This could lead to higher incomes for farmers and incentivize more production, as companies would be able to sell specialty potatoes internationally instead of just as frozen french fries or potato chips. | 1 |
German Chancellor Angela Merkel successfully convinced her fellow leaders to support a unified communique at a meeting in Hamburg, focusing on trade, finance, energy, and Africa. However, there was a noticeable divide between President Trump, who prioritizes "America First", and the other 19 members of the group. Merkel expressed disappointment in the US's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord, stating that negotiations on climate and trade were challenging due to the US's specific positions. The summit in Hamburg was marked by violent protests, resulting in burning cars and broken shop windows. It brought together a mix of leaders during a time of significant changes in global politics. Trump's new approach to diplomacy has created uncertainty among traditional allies in Europe and allowed China to play a larger role on the world stage. Tensions between the US and China were a major focus leading up to the meeting, with Trump pressuring President Xi Jinping on North Korea and trade issues. Trump's first meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin was highly anticipated, but overshadowed by allegations of Russian interference in the US election and investigations into Trump's ties to Russia. Putin stated that Trump questioned him on the election meddling during a lengthy meeting, but appeared to accept Putin's denials. Trump previously accused Russia of causing instability in Ukraine and Syria, but at the summit in Hamburg, he took a more conciliatory approach. He expressed his pleasure at meeting Putin and indicated, through Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, that he wanted to focus on future relationships rather than dwelling on the past. Tillerson described the meeting as very important, noting a positive chemistry between Trump and Putin. The final communique acknowledged the US's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord as irreversible, but the US added a controversial statement about working with other countries to improve their use of fossil fuels. French President Emmanuel Macron took the lead in trying to make the language of the United States more moderate. Thomas Bernes, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, noted that there is a strong consensus without the United States, but their absence poses a problem due to their status as the largest economy in the world. Jennifer Morgan, executive director at Greenpeace, praised the G19 for standing firm against Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The leaders agreed to oppose protectionism and unfair trade practices, as well as to acknowledge the use of legitimate trade defense measures. They also committed to collaborating on economic development in Africa, a key focus for Merkel. The summit, hosted by Merkel in her birth city of Hamburg, aimed to demonstrate Germany's openness and tolerance of peaceful protests. The event took place near the "Rote Flora," a symbol of left-wing resistance in Germany, where violent protests, including looting and arson, occurred over the three days of the summit. Over 200 police officers were harmed, with 143 individuals arrested and 122 placed in custody. The most severe destruction occurred during a concert and extravagant dinner hosted by Merkel at the Elbphilharmonie, a contemporary glass concert hall with views of the Elbe River. Following the summit, Merkel expressed gratitude to the police and security forces, denouncing the "unrestrained brutality" of certain protestors. However, she faced challenging inquiries about choosing Hamburg as the summit location during her concluding press briefing. | 1 |
The government's controversial proposal comes after large pro-democracy protests last year, posing a significant challenge to Beijing's Communist Party rule since the handover of the former British colony to Chinese control in 1997. Analysts believe that the blueprint, set to be voted on by lawmakers early in the summer, may reignite political tensions after a period of calm. Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying warned reporters that the city's political climate could become less accommodating, stating that there is currently no room for compromise and initiating political reform will be difficult. Leung stated that if the proposal is rejected, it may take a few years before another chance arises. Outside the Legislative Council, hundreds of demonstrators waved flags in support of the proposal, with some advocating for Hong Kong to progress. A smaller group carried yellow umbrellas, a symbol of the democracy movement, and called for "true universal suffrage" while also demanding Leung's resignation. Democratic lawmakers, wearing yellow crosses on black shirts and some carrying yellow umbrellas, left the chamber following the government's presentation. Last year, thousands of pro-democracy demonstrators blocked major roads in four districts of the city, calling for Beijing to allow a truly democratic vote and open nominations for Hong Kong's next chief executive in 2017. Despite their protests being ignored and the police forcefully clearing the protest encampments in December, the government has continued to support the proposal for a public vote on candidates pre-selected by a pro-Beijing nominating committee. The Hong Kong government has refused to make any concessions to persuade democratic lawmakers, who have promised to veto the proposal when it comes up for formal approval. The opposition group has a veto bloc of one-third, but Leung, who is supported by Beijing, is optimistic that he can convince four or five democrats to change their stance. Activists who led the "Occupy" movement last year criticize a vote without open nominations as not being true democracy. Hong Kong, although part of China, operates as a special administrative region with its own legal system and freedoms that are not allowed in mainland China. | 1 |
Critics of the Bush administration's environmental policies are increasingly expressing concerns about the lack of strict regulation, which has been linked to various issues such as the financial crisis and tainted imports from China. As the end of President George W. Bush's tenure approaches, there is growing criticism of using regulation instead of legislation to shape environmental policy. This criticism has been amplified by the upcoming presidential election, with both John McCain and Barack Obama presenting environmental platforms that differ from the current administration. While the environment is a significant issue for U.S. voters, it is not their top priority, with the economy and jobs taking precedence according to PollingReport.com. A CNN poll in July showed that while 66 percent of respondents considered the environment important in choosing a president, 93 percent said the same about the economy. Opponents, both within and outside of the government, have criticized the White House for not tightening some environmental regulations and loosening others on a variety of issues ranging from climate change to pollution cleanup. Senator Barbara Boxer of California has been leading the charge against the Bush administration's efforts to weaken environmental rules for the benefit of special interests, stating that the consequences of such actions are severe. Frank O'Donnell, from Clean Air Watch, also noted that the lack of regulation has been a defining feature of the Bush administration's environmental policy. A Capitol Hill staffer familiar with global warming legislation accused the Bush administration of actively working against efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. The staffer claimed that the administration was the main hindrance to progress in this area. In response, James Connaughton, who leads the White House Council on Environmental Quality, argued that the Bush administration has matched or surpassed the environmental achievements of past administrations, using a combination of regulations and incentives. Connaughton also criticized states like California for setting ambitious environmental goals but not meeting them. He specifically criticized Congress for not reinstating the Clean Air Interstate Rule, which aimed to reduce power plant pollution, after it was rejected by a federal appeals court in July. When Bush ran for president in 2000, he promised to regulate carbon emissions but changed his stance once in office, arguing that mandatory caps on greenhouse gases would harm U.S. jobs and benefit countries like China and India. In April 2007, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the EPA could regulate greenhouse gases as pollutants if they posed a threat to human health. The EPA postponed a decision on this ruling, leaving it likely that any regulatory action will be taken by either Obama or McCain after the election in November. The Bush administration's handling of endangered species has been heavily criticized by conservation groups. Up until now, 58 species have been included in the Endangered Species Act during the current president's term, in comparison to 522 during President Bill Clinton's term and 231 during President George H.W. Bush's term. The Bush administration delayed listing the polar bear as threatened by climate change until May 14, just one day before a court-ordered deadline. Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne stated that listing the polar bear would not combat climate change and that he was implementing measures to prevent the decision from being used to create global warming policy. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce commended the ruling, describing it as a sensible compromise between business interests and environmental issues. During a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing on September 24, Boxer criticized the Bush administration for attempting to weaken the EPA and Interior Department's efforts to safeguard public health and the environment. | 1 |
The Franco-German partnership, which has lasted for 50 years, has expanded beyond the European Union to Bangladesh. The first Franco-German embassy in the world is currently being built in Dhaka. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius will visit Dhaka together on Monday to strengthen the relationship. This visit will occur before the November climate conference in Paris, and they will also participate in the topping-off ceremony of the joint embassy in Baridhara. The German Ambassador in Dhaka, Thomas Prinz, stated to bdnews24.com that the upcoming embassy would be the first worldwide to be jointly constructed and managed by France and Germany. He described the building's external structure as having different colored facade elements that hint at a DNA, symbolizing the strong relationship between the two countries. Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali referred to the visit as "historic" and mentioned that a joint visit like this had never happened before. Ali would be accompanying the two ministers on a trip to the Patuakhali district to observe ongoing projects addressing climate change. The officials from the foreign ministry mentioned that they would participate in a working lunch hosted by Ali at the state guest house Padma, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Ganabhaban. They planned to depart from Dhaka at night after attending the topping-off ceremony at the new joint embassy. The German ambassador noted that the idea for this embassy project originated from a 'joint declaration' made during the 40th anniversary of the Elysée Treaty signing in January 2004. The declaration emphasized the decision to construct a joint embassy in order to enhance the diplomatic and consular services network of both countries. The foundation stone for the embassy was laid in 2013 during the 50th anniversary of the Treaty. The Elysée Treaty, serving as a symbol of reconciliation, paved the way for a future of friendship, cooperation, and partnership between France and Germany. Ambassador Prinz emphasized Germany's commitment to the European Union and their belief in the shared values and official motto of "united in diversity" as crucial to their cooperation. The strong Franco-German friendship is seen as essential to a successful European Union. Both countries supported Bangladesh during the 1971 War of Independence from Pakistan, with Germany being the largest single-country trading partner for Bangladesh in the EU, providing duty-free market access for all products. France and Germany both collaborate with Bangladesh on a range of international issues such as sustainable development, climate change preparedness, culture, and human rights. The visit is important on a global scale as the German envoy mentioned that challenges are becoming increasingly complex and often require international cooperation. For instance, he emphasized the need for unity in the international community to effectively combat climate change, stating that only through a united effort can a comprehensive and legally binding agreement be reached at the climate conference in Paris in December. | 1 |
Leaders from the United States, Mexico, and Canada have pledged to work together to combat the spread of the H1N1 swine flu and address climate change, although they have differing views on trade disputes at their "three amigos" summit. US President Barack Obama, Mexican President Felipe Calderon, and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper met amid economic challenges in each of their countries, with a US recovery being crucial for regional progress. Obama and Harper announced plans to exchange information in anticipation of a potential increase in the H1N1 virus in the upcoming months. Calderon expressed the importance of all three countries preparing responsibly for the return of the virus and minimizing its impact on their populations. All three leaders pledged to uphold the North American Free Trade Agreement that connects their countries in trade, but they had differing opinions on certain issues. Harper brought up Canada's concerns about the "Buy American" provisions in the U.S. economic stimulus plan with Obama, which Canadian companies fear could exclude them. Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States. Obama emphasized that no extensive protectionist measures have been implemented and that the "Buy American" provisions only apply to the stimulus and do not jeopardize the billions of dollars in trade between the two countries. Calderon, who is working to convince Obama to resolve a cross-border trucking dispute to allow Mexican trucks to enter the United States, stated that all three leaders agree on the importance of following NAFTA and addressing unresolved issues that hinder regional competitiveness. Obama informed Calderon that he was collaborating with the US Congress to address safety issues related to Mexican trucks. He emphasized the importance of avoiding protectionism and expanding trade among the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The leaders also released a statement expressing their commitment to combating climate change leading up to the global summit in Copenhagen. They stressed the importance of taking aggressive action on this issue. | 1 |
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed concern about California's $42 billion deficit during the current economic crisis, leading to fears of insolvency. Many people have left the state due to issues such as traffic, lack of jobs, and high taxes. Despite the gloomy outlook, experts believe that California has the potential to recover and that the crisis may lead to positive long-term economic changes. According to economists and historians, California's future looks promising due to its abundant natural resources, large ports, access to the Pacific Rim, youthful workforce, entrepreneurial opportunities, and tech-focused industries. Jerry Nickelsburg, a senior economist at UCLA Anderson Forecast, believes that despite some government-created challenges, the state has a lot of potential for success. Governor Schwarzenegger recently made headlines by delivering a pessimistic message about California's economy, which is valued at around $1.5 trillion. "The former actor and bodybuilder expressed that California is currently facing a state of emergency. He emphasized that addressing this emergency is the top priority for the people, as the $42 billion deficit is weighing heavily on the state. Controller John Chiang announced that he would be postponing $3.7 billion in tax refunds and other payments due to the state running out of money. The current state of California is a far cry from its prosperous post-World War Two era, with rising incomes, affordable homes, and expansive freeways." Dowell Myers, a professor at the University of Southern California, stated that the prosperous times abruptly ended in 1973 due to the OPEC recession, and California has never fully recovered. Economists believe that California's main issue stems from its heavy dependence on personal income taxes, leading to drastic fluctuations in revenue. Proposition 13, which restricts property tax hikes and demands a two-thirds majority in the legislature to increase taxes, has contributed significantly to the state's reliance on income taxes. The 1978 measure caused a rise in anti-tax sentiment across other states and helped Ronald Reagan win the U.S. presidency two years later. Lawmakers have reacted by imposing some of the highest income and sales taxes on state residents. Economists believe the state has needed to address its fluctuating revenue for a long time, and hope that the current crisis will compel leaders to confront the issue. They do not see a significant long-term impact on the number of people leaving the state, as California's population is much larger than other states. Additionally, California's population continues to grow due to immigration and births, and its relatively young workforce may give it an advantage as baby boomers retire. Some projections suggest that California's population could reach 60 million by 2050, which is six times higher than the 10.5 million people in 1950 and 60 percent more than the current population of 38 million. The state was heavily affected by the mortgage crisis and foreclosures in 2008, causing home prices in Southern California to drop by 35 percent. This made home ownership more feasible for young families in California for the first time in nearly ten years. Despite facing a high unemployment rate of 9.3 percent in December, which is above the national average of 7.2 percent and nearing the rate seen during the recession in the early 1990s, California remains a leader in industries such as green energy, biotechnology, and aerospace, which are expected to thrive in the global economy and create new job opportunities. Myers believes that in order to solve the problems in California, the train must be completely wrecked to shake things up and force a reassessment. Jessica Gould, a graduate student at USC, is optimistic about the future and hopes that changes will be made in the state. I am worried about the budget situation, truthfully. However, challenges are inevitable no matter where you go, and there are numerous other benefits I derive from residing here, so I suppose it is a minor inconvenience. | 1 |
Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan announced his new role as chairman of a green group funded by Microsoft chairman Bill Gates, aimed at improving food production in Africa. Annan expressed his honor in joining this initiative to address challenges faced by small-scale farmers in Africa. The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, established with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation, aims to help farmers across Africa increase productivity and income sustainably to combat poverty and hunger. The group is based in Nairobi, Kenya. Annan stated that the organization plans to collaborate with governments and farmers to enhance local and regional agricultural markets, enhance irrigation, soil health, and farmer training, and support the development of new seed systems that can withstand the harsh African climate. He emphasized that they will not promote the use of genetically modified seeds, which have sparked controversy in some African nations, but will instead focus on improving disease resistance of current seeds in Africa. Annan made these remarks at the World Economic Forum for Africa in Cape Town, expressing hope that agricultural productivity could double or even triple within the next 10-20 years through concrete action rather than just mere aspirations. The Alliance expressed its support for the goals outlined in the African Union's Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), which aims for a 6 percent annual increase in food production by 2015. The group plans to implement agricultural changes that have successfully increased productivity in Asia and Latin America. During his time at the United Nations, Annan frequently highlighted the connection between Africa's struggling agriculture systems and its ongoing issues with hunger and poverty. Over the last five years, the number of malnourished children in Africa has increased by approximately 12 percent. Annan, who is from Ghana, recently completed a 10-year term as UN secretary-general. | 1 |
The UK government is preparing to announce new plans to address the country's poor recycling rates and reduce its reliance on landfill sites, according to Environment Minister Ben Bradshaw. The government is considering various incentive schemes for residents, including financial rewards. The upcoming Waste Strategy, to be presented by Environment Secretary David Miliband, will detail how the government intends to comply with strict EU regulations on reducing landfill waste in England. A government consultation paper last year suggested increasing household waste recycling and composting from 27 percent to 40 percent by 2010 and 50 percent by 2020. Data from the Institute for Public Policy Research and the Green Alliance shows that Britain ranks low in Europe for recycling, trailing only Greece and Portugal in terms of lower recycling rates. Campaigners are urging the government to implement progressive charges for waste collection in order to incentivize households to recycle more. A recent consultation revealed strong public support for variable charging, although there are worries that increased costs could result in more fly-tipping. According to Bradshaw, it is crucial for the government to boost recycling rates and decrease reliance on landfill, as it poses environmental risks. He emphasized the importance of recycling materials and generating energy, while also highlighting the negative effects of methane production. Despite this, the minister believes that collection schedules should still be managed by local authorities. Some councils have upset many residents by changing to fortnightly waste collections. Friends of the Earth believes that businesses should be required to meet recycling targets. They also oppose government plans to build more incinerators, as they produce more harmful carbon dioxide than gas-fired power stations. | 1 |
A set of anti-poverty goals established at the UN in 2000 were discussed by the secretary-general, who emphasized the importance of assisting the most vulnerable populations in achieving these goals. He expressed optimism that the Millennium Goals are still attainable as long as necessary support is provided to struggling nations. Additionally, he urged the UN Human Rights Council to fulfill its role in promoting human rights worldwide. The secretary-general highlighted the significance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges, noting that the UN is best equipped to handle the issues of the future in an increasingly interconnected world. He stated that the only way to address them is through the UN. It is anticipated that 193 speakers will take part in this year's general debate, with more than 70 heads of State and almost 30 heads of government participating. The debate is set to last until 3 October. The start of the assembly's general debate comes after recent high-level meetings on various issues such as climate change, the Darfur conflict, Iraq, Afghanistan, and the situation in the Middle East. Ban is also scheduled to hold one-on-one meetings with over 100 heads of State or government or ministers in the next two weeks. | 1 |
Japan's Prime Minister, Yukio Hatoyama, began three days of talks in India on Monday with a focus on improving relations and increasing trade between the two countries. Hatoyama, who took office in September after the long rule of the conservative Liberal Democratic Party, has seen his popularity decline to 50 percent in a recent survey. Japan and India, both major economies in Asia, have been working to strengthen their ties since Japan imposed sanctions on India following its nuclear tests in 1998. Hatoyama started his visit by meeting with Indian business leaders, such as Ratan Tata and Mukesh Ambani, at a Mumbai hotel that was targeted by gunmen in 2008. He is scheduled to hold discussions with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh later on. India, a consistent recipient of Japanese aid, is interested in understanding the specifics of Hatoyama's foreign policy, particularly Tokyo's efforts to establish a foreign policy more independent from Washington and strengthen ties with China, which has historically been a rival of India. India is keen to learn more about its role in Hatoyama's proposed East Asian community with a unified currency, similar to the European Union. Siddharth Varadarajan, a senior editor at The Hindu newspaper, noted that Hatoyama is a unique Japanese leader, different from those India has interacted with in the past decade. Varadarajan believes that Hatoyama's vision of an East Asian Community and his willingness to collaborate with China present an opportunity for India and Japan to enhance their bilateral relations on a more solid foundation rather than just focusing on maintaining a balance of power. This contrasts with the perspective in New Delhi that views Japan as a safeguard against the growing influence of China. Increasing trade and military cooperation are seen as key ways to strengthen the partnership between the U.S. and India, with Japan also providing support for the civilian nuclear deal. India's foreign ministry spokesman, Vishnu Prakash, stated that negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement are ongoing, with twelve rounds of talks already completed. Japan is currently the sixth largest investor in India, and the goal is to increase bilateral trade from $12 billion in 2008-09 to $20 billion by next year. Hatoyama's discussions in India may also touch upon climate change policies, as the two countries have differing views on the matter, especially regarding the expansion of Japanese support for renewable energy projects in India. Indian officials mentioned that talks would include Japan's proposal to provide training for ex-Taliban members as part of a $5 billion aid package for Afghanistan. India is hesitant about integrating the Taliban into Kabul's power structures. Hatoyama's administration is expected to portray the visit as a success amidst growing criticism at home. Recently, he approved a record trillion dollar budget, which will add to Japan's already substantial debt as the government grapples with a sluggish economy. Japanese voters are increasingly questioning Hatoyama's competence in dealing with difficult foreign policy matters, and the recent arrest of two former aides has led to demands for further clarification regarding a scandal involving incorrect political funding records. | 1 |
European leaders have been avoiding taking sides since Barack Obama suggested that America should focus on Asia in its competition with China. They hoped to maintain stability in the relationship between the two superpowers and balance their interests. However, the Trump administration's actions against China and the recent alliance between the US, Britain, and Australia have disrupted this balance. The alliance will allow Australia to deploy nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific, but it also led to the cancellation of a $66 billion deal for Australia to purchase French diesel-powered subs. Thomas Gomart, the director of the French Institute of International Relations, stated that Europeans are trying to avoid making a decision between the United States and China. The Biden administration, like the Trump administration, is forcing them to make a choice. France was upset by this, but it may have a positive aspect for their broader goals. French President Emmanuel Macron has been a strong advocate for Europe's "strategic autonomy," believing that Europe should maintain a balanced relationship with both the United States and China. The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell Fontelles, also expressed the need for Europe to be self-sufficient. The French were embarrassed by the sudden announcement of the submarine deal by the Americans, which came after the chaotic events in Afghanistan. European allies were angry at the lack of consultation by the Biden administration, reinforcing Macron's argument that the US is not a reliable security partner. Analysts are unsure if France can use this setback to promote strategic autonomy, as some see it as a self-serving move by the French. Europe's balancing act is becoming more difficult to maintain, according to Rosa Balfour, director of Carnegie Europe. She emphasized the importance of Europe thinking carefully about its position and actions. Balfour stated that while it is desirable for Europe to increase defense spending, it also needs allies such as Britain and the United States. She also highlighted that building its own security capacity is crucial for Europe to have more influence with its partners. The AUKUS alliance aims to incorporate Australia and Britain into the larger American strategy to counter China's security threats. Analysts agree that the United States and Britain offer Australia a stronger deterrent against China in the Indo-Pacific compared to France, whose relations with Beijing have weakened. Ian Lesser of the German Marshall Fund stated that the partnership with the US and UK sends a significant message to Beijing, especially benefiting Australia. He also emphasized the importance of the partners involved in sending this signal. Lesser questioned the need to view American actions in the Pacific as diminishing Europe's importance, noting that the US remains committed to European security. The European Union may struggle to find the political will for strategic autonomy, as highlighted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her recent address. France is moving towards autonomy, but it is uncertain if the rest of the European bloc is willing to follow suit and distance themselves from the United States. There are concerns that France may end up isolating itself, as the US remains a critical partner in many regions where France has security interests. There are also questions about America's reliability as a security partner in the future, especially in a conflict with China. In Poland, there is a more positive reaction to the new alliance, with a focus on standing against China and defending the free world, rather than pivoting away from Europe. However, there are criticisms from some European allies that the Biden administration is not consulting them and disregarding their interests. "He mentioned that this time it was the French, but in the case of Nord Stream 2, we were abandoned in favor of Germany," he stated. This refers to Biden's choice to permit the construction of a gas pipeline from Russia to Germany, bypassing Ukraine and Poland, which was important for Berlin. Baranowski added that the US may claim to be strengthening alliances with Germany and Australia, but other allies end up suffering as a result. Balfour of Carnegie Europe noted that Europeans would rather not anger China in terms of their relations with the country. According to the speaker, European allies have been hesitant to take a more aggressive stance on China and are aware of the importance of engaging in discussions with China regarding climate and trade. It would be beneficial if Europe could continue talks with China without being seen as forming a security alliance against it. The speaker believes that if the European Union can handle this diplomatically, it could prevent the world from being divided into pro or anti-China camps, which is the narrative that Beijing is promoting. | 1 |
US technology and other companies submitted around 200,000 visa applications for highly skilled foreign workers to the government on Tuesday. This annual lottery is for only 65,000 visas, known as H-1B visas, which allow U.S. companies to hire foreign guest workers for specialized jobs for three years, with the option to extend for another three years. Last year, the U.S. government received approximately 120,000 applications on the first day, leaving many applicants, including Sven, a German civil engineer in San Diego, without a visa. Sven, who requested to keep his last name confidential for privacy reasons, plans to participate in the H-1B visa lottery again this year despite acknowledging the low chances of success. The 33-year-old, who spent eight years earning a civil engineering degree at a German university, described winning the lottery as akin to hitting the jackpot. He was surprised to learn the number of applicants last year. While his company has been supportive, covering legal fees and assisting with paperwork, Sven is disappointed that his ability to work in the U.S. is dependent on luck. This year, experts anticipate that the chances of obtaining an H-1B visa will be even lower. Approximately 200,000 applications are expected on the first day that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) begins accepting visa petitions for the fiscal year starting on October 1, 2008. Jack Krumholtz, managing director of federal government affairs for Microsoft Corp, stated that individuals offered jobs are at the mercy of a lottery system. Last year, USCIS closed the application window after two days and selected visa recipients through a computerized lottery system, giving all applicants an equal chance of being chosen. Tech companies argue that the high demand for visas highlights the necessity for the industry to utilize foreign talent. According to Heather Dickinson, a spokesperson for Cisco Systems Inc., not being able to hire the best workers puts companies like Cisco at a disadvantage. Companies specializing in science, technology, engineering, and technology believe that the current system is problematic as the U.S. is not producing enough qualified candidates and is restricting companies from hiring foreign workers. It is crucial for the U.S. to address this issue in order to remain competitive and maintain economic stability. Immigration lawyer Jacob Sapochnick mentioned that he is handling around 150 visa applications this year for employers and workers in various fields, including high tech, science, marketing, and even culinary arts. Last year, Sapochnick submitted approximately 200 applications, with about half being approved for visas. This year, the situation is even more uncertain as USCIS announced it will not close the application window for five business days. Sapochnick anticipates around 300,000 applications will be submitted during this time. He expressed frustration, calling it "almost like a bad joke." The National Association of Manufacturers has urged for a permanent solution to address the demand for highly skilled workers in manufacturing and other industries. In 2000, the quota for H-1B visas was increased to 195,000 per year but was seldom met. However, as the tech industry declined, the quota was reduced to 65,000. Tech companies have pushed for an increase in the quota, but labor groups are against it, believing it would negatively impact job opportunities for American workers. Around one-third of Microsoft's U.S. employees have needed visa assistance, with the company submitting approximately 1,200 applications for H-1B visas last year, of which about 900 were approved, according to Krumholtz. This year, Microsoft is aiming to increase its odds in the lottery by submitting approximately 1,600 applications. Krumholtz mentioned that the company is looking to fill 3,000 to 4,000 core positions but anticipates only about 40 percent, or 640 visas, will be approved. Attorney Bob Gaynor, who specializes in immigration law in Boston, stated that his clients applying for H-1B visas are concerned about their prospects in the selection process. He predicted that around 200,000 applications will be submitted on Tuesday from various professionals in different fields and countries. Gaynor expressed her sadness, stating that these individuals truly make a valuable contribution to the economic environment of the nation. | 1 |
A group of key emerging economies, such as China and India, have joined forces to exert pressure on developed nations during the upcoming climate change talks in Copenhagen. After two days of discussions in Beijing, these countries have agreed on important issues, including the necessity for the West to provide financial aid and technology to assist developing nations in fighting global warming. The meeting was attended by high-ranking officials from China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and Sudan, who currently chairs the Group of 77 developing countries. China, the world's largest greenhouse gas emitter, India, the fourth largest emitter, and Brazil, a significant emitter due to deforestation, have all faced calls to reduce their carbon emissions and have announced plans to do so. They claim that the efforts of wealthy nations to combat climate change are not sufficient. The purpose of the meeting was to prepare for a successful outcome in Copenhagen, as stated in a released statement following the talks held on Friday and Saturday. The meeting was intended to establish a stronger and more comprehensive climate agreement to succeed the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. However, negotiations that began in Bali two years ago have not successfully addressed the differences between rich and poor nations regarding emission reduction, monitoring, and financial responsibilities. Denmark and several wealthy nations are in favor of finalizing a political agreement in Copenhagen and working out the legally binding details in 2010, rather than immediately creating a new agreement. Developing nations are pushing for a stronger outcome. Developing nations are concerned about attempts to replace the Kyoto Protocol with a new agreement or incorporating its provisions into another agreement. The European Union believes Kyoto has not been effective in reducing emissions from wealthy nations and supports the need for a new agreement. The Beijing statement emphasized the importance of keeping the Kyoto Protocol in place, with wealthy nations shouldering the responsibility of reducing emissions in line with the protocol's second commitment period starting in 2013. In exchange for assistance, developing economies would commit to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions. Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh and other participants followed a 10-page draft negotiation strategy presented by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao. Beijing's chief climate negotiator, Xie Zhenhua, was set to present the strategy in Copenhagen. The WWF noted that the Beijing statement seemed to oppose Denmark's suggestion of a political agreement in Copenhagen. WWF's Global Climate Initiative leader, Kim Carstensen, expressed little surprise at the challenge posed by emerging economies to the developed world. The Danish proposal is very weak, to be honest, and the governments of developing countries are not foolish. | 1 |
The Commonwealth expressed concern about the threat of climate change to small island nations due to rising sea levels but did not endorse mandatory goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The statement, issued during the summit of former British colonies, warned of the dire consequences of inaction in combating global warming. However, critics like Greenpeace Executive Director John Sauvan criticized the lack of urgency and specific targets in the Commonwealth's declaration. The Commonwealth secretary-general, Don McKinnon, referred to the agreement as a significant step forward, even though it did not meet the expectations of many countries. Britain had called for a strong message and binding commitments from developed nations before the upcoming environment conference in Bali. The Kampala declaration fell short of these demands, but did emphasize that developed countries should lead in reducing emissions while ensuring that developing nations can continue sustainable economic development. The Bali Summit will focus on a new agreement to replace the expiring Kyoto protocol, which aims to reduce emissions that contribute to global warming. Kyoto does not require developing nations like India and China to decrease greenhouse gas emissions. Canada's conservative government stated that they would not agree to a deal in Kampala unless all countries were asked to reduce emissions. The Commonwealth typically makes decisions based on consensus, which may explain the vague language in Saturday's declaration due to the need to compromise between Canada's stance and the requests of developing nations. The Commonwealth Climate Change Action Plan called for a post-Kyoto agreement to reduce greenhouse gases, but only mentioned a global goal for emissions reduction that all countries would contribute to. Environmentalists have criticized similar non-binding language used in recent summits by the G8 and APEC. A British official expressed satisfaction with the statement as it aligns with their goal of building momentum before the Bali conference. However, there is a debate over whether CHOGM is the appropriate venue to commit to binding targets, with some feeling that Bali would be more suitable. Australia, previously hesitant to address climate change, announced their intention to sign the Kyoto Protocol after Labor Party leader Kevin Rudd's election victory. The previous government's refusal to ratify Kyoto upset Pacific island nations, including Commonwealth members, at risk of being impacted by rising sea levels. | 1 |
The upcoming US president will be confronted with a challenging array of foreign policy issues, including ongoing wars, the global financial crisis, and the need to improve the country's international reputation. Democratic candidate Barack Obama and Republican candidate John McCain have primarily focused on domestic issues like taxes and healthcare leading up to the November 4 election, putting topics such as the Iranian nuclear situation and Middle East peace on the backburner. However, the winner of the election will inherit numerous national security challenges from President George W. Bush. James Lindsay, a former foreign policy advisor to President Bill Clinton, warns that the next administration must approach these issues cautiously. Lindsay, who is now affiliated with the University of Texas in Austin, stated that the incoming president-elect will face a significant foreign policy agenda with decisions that will have major consequences for American security. A summit will be held in Washington a week and a half after the election to address the global economic crisis and kick off negotiations on financial reforms among world leaders. The next president, who will be inaugurated on Jan. 20, will be dealing with ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the pursuit of al Qaeda militants along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Other urgent issues include preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and ensuring North Korea follows through on dismantling its nuclear weapons program. Both candidates have pledged to prioritize efforts towards achieving Middle East peace and to provide unwavering support for Israel. Mark Lippert, a foreign policy adviser to Obama, emphasized that fighting terrorism, addressing militants along the Afghan-Pakistan border, and eliminating Osama bin Laden are key national security objectives. Obama has promised to conclude the Iraq war and increase the number of US troops in Afghanistan. Lippert stated that the ability to address the worsening security situation in Afghanistan and pursue militants is connected to progress in political reconciliation in Iraq and the reduction of troops there. McCain also supports the idea of deploying more troops in Afghanistan and opposes setting a timetable for withdrawal in Iraq, believing that US forces should stay as long as necessary. Obama's willingness to engage in direct talks with adversarial countries like Iran and Syria is a significant point of contention. While Obama believes that the Bush administration's reluctance to communicate with enemies has limited diplomatic opportunities, McCain views the Democratic candidate's proposal for high-level dialogue as naive. McCain has proposed removing Russia from the Group of Eight in response to their conflict with Georgia, a move that Obama does not support. Despite both candidates condemning the Russian invasion of Georgia, McCain has been more vocal in his criticism. One common foreign policy goal of Obama and McCain is to improve relationships with traditional allies, particularly European countries, which were strained during the Bush administration. Some experts believe that Obama's popularity overseas could give him an initial advantage in this effort, although it will not solve challenges like getting Europe to provide more troops for Afghanistan. Strengthening alliances with Europe could also help in dealing with Russia, according to Lippert. Obama has emphasized the importance of the transatlantic relationship in advancing US interests in various areas such as nonproliferation, terrorism, climate change, energy, and democracy promotion. While McCain has taken a tougher stance on Russia and made jokes about bombing Iran, he has promised to move away from the current administration's aggressive diplomatic approach. Randy Scheunemann, McCain's top foreign policy adviser, stated in an interview last month that it is a misrepresentation to suggest that McCain, a senator from Arizona and former prisoner of war, would be more prone to using military force than previous US presidents. Scheunemann emphasized that McCain comprehends the gravity of sending men and women in uniform into dangerous situations. The economic summit scheduled for November 15 by Bush will convene leaders from the G20, which comprises major industrialized nations and key emerging economies such as China, Brazil, and India. While the president-elect will have some input, it remains uncertain whether he will attend. Both McCain and Obama have underscored the significance of the US economy in shaping the country's global standing. Obama is more careful about trade, but both candidates pledge to act swiftly in order to enhance the financial regulatory system. | 1 |
The severe weather continued to move northwards, causing more cities to be flooded and crops to be destroyed. The official Xinhua news agency reported economic losses of 1.22 billion yuan ($189 million) so far. The storm alert was raised to red for four cities in the north of Henan province - Xinxiang, Anyang, Hebi, and Jiaozuo. Tragically, 12 people died in the flooded subway in Zhengzhou, while eight others are still missing in the province. Over 73,000 people in Anyang were being evacuated due to heavy rainfall. Xinhua reported that Xinxiang, a small city located north of Zhengzhou, experienced a record-breaking 812 mm of rainfall between Tuesday and Thursday. This caused seven medium-sized reservoirs to overflow, impacting numerous nearby villages and towns. As of late Wednesday, more than 470,000 people and over 55,000 hectares of crops have been affected by the heavy rain in Xinxiang. A search and rescue team of over 76,000 personnel has been deployed by the local government. In Hebei, two individuals lost their lives due to a tornado hitting Baoding. Following the fatal flooding of the Zhengzhou subway, the government has instructed local authorities to enhance urban transit flood controls and emergency responses promptly. Media images showed commuters wading through chest-deep waters in dark subway cars, with one station turned into a swirling pool. The Ministry of Transport urged local authorities to address hidden risks in rail transit immediately, including suspending trains, evacuating passengers, and closing stations during extreme weather events. Zhengzhou received 617.1 mm of rain from Saturday to Tuesday, nearly matching the city's annual average of 640.8 mm. The accuracy of weather reports from local meteorological services has also come under public scrutiny. The provincial weather bureau informed state media that they had issued a report predicting heavy rains two days before they occurred. From Monday evening, meteorological departments at various levels have sent out 120 million text messages to mobile phone users warning them about the storms, according to the Henan weather bureau. | 1 |
All times are local (GMT). At 8:15 p.m., the talks concluded with a global agreement that aimed to preserve the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, in order to prevent catastrophic climate change. There were varying opinions on the success of the deal, with some suggesting that the true measure of success will be seen in the future, as promises on paper are translated into action. At 7:40 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma appeared on the verge of tears as India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav disrupted the adoption process of the Glasgow pact by proposing new language that suggested governments should "phase down" coal use rather than eliminate it completely. Despite some countries expressing disappointment, they still pledged their support for the deal to prevent the negotiations from collapsing. Sharma, feeling remorseful for the handling of the process, apologized to the plenary and became emotional. Earlier at 7:23 p.m., Sharma had declared, "It is now decision time," as he opened the formal plenary. At 7:04 p.m., a deal was confirmed by Chinese climate envoy Xie Zhenhua during the plenary in Glasgow. Despite expressing approval, he also offered a critique. "The voice of developing nations has not been sufficiently listened to," he stated via his interpreter. At 6:51 p.m., Samuel Adeoye Adejuwon, a technical advisor on Nigeria's delegation, mentioned that Nigeria supported India in objecting to harsh language against fossil fuels in the Glasgow agreement. He argued that developing countries have unique circumstances and should not be pressured to halt their development. Adejuwon told Reuters while delegates were moving around the plenary floor. He also mentioned that the US talks with China and India regarding coal were aimed at reaching a compromise. At 6:42 p.m., attendees at the UN climate talks became anxious when representatives from the United States and the EU met with their counterparts from China and India to discuss the language of the agreement regarding the elimination of coal. The meeting lasted about 30 minutes before the delegates emerged. A member of the Indian delegation confirmed to Reuters that the meeting took place, indicating that last-minute negotiations were happening as the UK hosts of the conference pushed for a resolution. Just before the meeting, US special envoy John Kerry was overheard by Reuters reminding his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua that China had agreed to phase out coal within the next 20 years. At 5:36 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma announces that the meeting will resume shortly after country delegations finish speaking. A vote on the deal is expected to take place once they reconvene. Earlier at 4:40 p.m., United States special climate envoy John Kerry noted that not everyone was pleased with the draft deal at the UN talks in Glasgow, stating, "If it is a good negotiation, all the parties are uncomfortable." "This negotiation, in my opinion, has been successful," he stated following criticism from poorer and island nations that the draft did not offer enough support. Maldives Environment Minister Aminath Shauna was direct in her disappointment, stating that it may be too late for the Maldives. India's environment and climate minister, Bhupender Yadav, also criticized the draft deal for requesting countries to stop fossil fuel subsidies, questioning how developing countries can be expected to make such promises while still focusing on development and poverty eradication. At 4:08 p.m., Swiss Environment Minister Simonetta Sommaruga expressed her country's dissatisfaction with the deal due to concerns about global carbon market rules, but stated they would accept it. She noted a general feeling of unhappiness among participants at the COP. Gabon's Minister of Water, Forests, Sea and Environment, Lee White, mentioned having unresolved issues and needing reassurance from developed countries before departing from the Glasgow COP. At 3:58 p.m., he commented that the deal was not flawless. The poor and small island nations expressed a common sentiment during the plenary discussion on the draft climate deal, stating that while they felt it did not go far enough in addressing their needs, they would still support it. These countries had been advocating for more financial assistance from wealthier nations to help them transition to clean energy and recover from climate-related disasters. Marshall Islands climate envoy Tina Stege acknowledged the shortcomings of the existing deal but saw it as progress, and pledged her support because she could not return to her island with nothing. Tuvalu's climate envoy Seve Paeniu, showing a photo of his grandchildren, emphasized the importance of the promise made at Glasgow to secure their future. At 3:44 p.m., EU climate chief Frans Timmermans received enthusiastic applause for his plea to countries to come together for the benefit of future generations. He emphasized the importance of reaching a deal for the children and grandchildren, stating that they would not forgive us if we do not succeed. Timmermans warned that the conference could face setbacks if countries insisted on making last-minute changes to the texts. At 3:30 p.m., he expressed that the best Christmas gift he could give to them would be a successful agreement. At the COP26 conference, China negotiator Zhao Yingmin acknowledged that the current draft of the deal is imperfect but stated that his team has no plans to reopen it, which could be seen as a positive development. Representatives from Tanzania and Guinea expressed disappointment that the draft did not provide enough financial assistance for climate-vulnerable nations like theirs. COP26 President Alok Sharma emphasized the urgency of reaching a final agreement, stating that the conference was at a critical juncture for the planet and future generations. Despite remaining differences, Sharma indicated that negotiations needed to come to a close and an accord needed to be reached. Just before the official plenary session was scheduled to begin, US special envoy John Kerry and his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua were seen standing together, reviewing a document line by line. This came after the surprise announcement of a joint declaration between the US and China to increase efforts to combat climate change by reducing coal use, controlling methane emissions, and preserving forests. During closed-door negotiations at 2:30 p.m., delegates from three countries expressed confusion and frustration over the last-minute obstacles to reaching a deal. One negotiator described the situation as chaotic. 2 negotiator Zhao Yingmin, upon arriving at his country's offices, stated that there were no updates. Meanwhile, representatives from Brazil were observed entering a meeting of the G77 group of developing countries. At 1:45 p.m., after an hour and 45 minutes, Sharma returned to the microphone to inform everyone that they could leave for the time being, but to return promptly at 2:30 p.m. for the official plenary session. The delay was necessary to give parties time to finalize their negotiations, and Sharma assured everyone that a deal would be reached later in the afternoon. At 1:06 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma attempted twice to get delegates from other nations to take their seats in the plenary room, where he had arrived promptly at noon. Despite his efforts, an hour later, delegates were still engaged in lively discussions on one side of the stage. Meanwhile, US climate envoy John Kerry was seen mingling with different groups in the room. By 12:30 p.m., delegates were eagerly awaiting updates on the negotiations, but remained patient despite the delays. "It's no surprise that the COP is running over time, it's classic," commented Axel Michaelowa, an advisor to the Honduras delegation. In the cafeteria, opinions varied on what the delays meant for the final deal - did they indicate a strong agreement that could keep temperatures below 1.5C, or a weaker one? "I believe the decision to not finalize it last night suggests they are working towards a deal that benefits everyone," stated Emily Wright from Save the Children International. Naja Moretro, from the Norwegian Church Aid Youth Organisation, disagreed, saying, "The texts are becoming less clear." Danish Climate Minister Dan Jorgensen expressed his support for language in the final deal that calls for a phase-out of coal as he entered the summit's plenary room at 12:02 p.m. He stated that it is important to recognize that the issue is not about shaming countries reliant on fossil fuels. He emphasized the need for some countries to receive assistance in transitioning away from coal. He suggested that the text should also mention the concept of 'just transition'. Nellie Dokie, 37, has been commuting two hours each way to the conference center to work as a chef. She has been cooking meals for VIPs and delegates, and finally took a break to explore the main conference area. Dokie resides in Glasgow but is originally from Liberia. "I desire to contribute to history. I played a minor role," she expressed. At 11:20 a.m., US Special Climate Envoy John Kerry seemed to be in a cheerful state. He stated that the weather was lovely in Scotland as he walked with his top negotiators Sue Biniaz, Jonathan Pershing, and Trigg Talley, followed by reporters. It was uncertain whether his positive outlook was due to the progress of negotiations or the unusually sunny weather in Glasgow. The focus had shifted to "bilateral" meetings in various rooms at the conference site over the past day, with delegates meeting in secure, windowless rooms. They were examining the preliminary text in preparation for the noon stocktaking session. At 8:53 a.m., a group of Greenpeace staff members were gathered in the COP26 conference halls, working on a new statement regarding the latest draft revisions. Spanish Energy and Environment Minister Teresa Ribera was observed hurrying from her delegation's office, while the UK COP26 Presidency distributed what many believed to be the final draft of a comprehensive Glasgow agreement. Meanwhile, technical crews were dismantling flat-screen displays and removing them from meeting rooms as they continued to break down parts of the venue. By 8:21 a.m., following intense overnight discussions, delegates were ready for the unveiling of another draft agreement. The pavilions set up by various countries to display their environmentally friendly initiatives have been taken down, but coffee stands are still open. Non-governmental organizations who have been closely monitoring the negotiations are carefully examining documents released early in the morning for hints on what will be included in the final agreement. At 9:30 p.m. on Friday, the UK conference hosts announced that there will not be a deal reached that night. Alok Sharma, the UK summit president, stated that he anticipates formal plenary meetings in the afternoon on Saturday to make decisions and conclude the session. Delegations and members of the media seemed to be returning to their hotels for some rest before a busy day ahead. The COP26 conference halls were quiet at 8:40 p.m., with small groups of negotiators, including several EU delegates, moving back and forth between meetings. According to Felipe De Leon Denegri, Costa Rica's carbon markets negotiator, much of the work during the final hours of climate negotiations is done through "shuttle diplomacy," where diplomats move between rooms. However, this year, a lot of this communication is done through the messaging app WhatsApp, making the process quieter than usual. De Leon noted that in the 21st century, it is sometimes surprising that important diplomatic discussions occur on WhatsApp. He suggested that due to the pandemic and the rise of virtual work, more conversations are taking place on the Facebook-owned app than ever before. Tuvalu's Finance Minister Seve Paeniu, who led the island nation's delegation, spent a sleepless night negotiating the section of the draft agreement related to "loss and damage". Countries like Tuvalu, facing the consequences of climate change, are pushing for wealthy nations with high emissions to provide financial compensation. He mentioned that his team is striving to encourage the United States and Australia to back a separate fund for loss and damage. He also emphasized the importance of reaching a strong collective agreement in Glasgow to maintain the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C. He expressed concern about countries not committing enough to reduce emissions for this target and insufficient focus on providing additional financing for adaptation. Ed Miliband, former UK Labour Party leader, paused in the hallway to praise Paeniu for a previous speech. At 7:38 p.m., the delegation offices at the summit complex were predominantly silent. Two prominent negotiators from China were observed in their office, while nearby, two US negotiators were seen walking down the hall with sandwiches. It was anticipated that the night would be lengthy due to significant disagreements on increasing emissions cuts commitments, handling carbon markets, and providing funding for developing countries. | 1 |
The Maldives, a popular tourist destination, saw a change in leadership as the man who brought democracy to the islands resigned amid military pressure following a police mutiny. His party labeled it a bloodless coup. The capital island, Male, was peaceful just 24 hours after police and opposition protesters took over the military headquarters and state TV station. Former President Mohamed Nasheed stepped down on Tuesday and was released from military custody. The political turmoil did not affect the daily lives of tourists who visit the luxury resorts on the desert islands. The speaker of the People's Majlis swore in Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik as his deputy. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated his hope that the handover of power would lead to a peaceful resolution of the political crisis in the country. The crisis began when former President Nasheed ordered the military to arrest a judge, leading to weeks of protests and a police revolt. Eventually, Nasheed was forced to resign by elements of the military marching him into his own office. Nasheed was taken to his office, introduced to his cabinet, and later appeared on television to declare his resignation, according to Roberts, a 32-year-old British citizen speaking from an undisclosed location. Roberts stated that Nasheed was compelled to step down by the military. Despite having the option to resist violently, Nasheed chose not to shed blood. Amnesty International advised the new administration to refrain from targeting individuals based on their political beliefs, as there were concerns about potential persecution of Nasheed and his close associates not being permitted to leave the country. The new president, Waheed, was expected to lead a coalition national unity government until the presidential election in October 2013. He stated on Tuesday that it was incorrect to refer to the change of leadership as a coup and assured that tourists were not in danger. Tourism makes up around two-thirds of the Maldives' GDP of approximately $1 billion. While there were some travel advisories, such as from Britain, advising against travel to Male, most of the Maldives' nearly 1 million annual visitors do not actually go to the capital. Instead, they are transported directly from the airport island to their resorts by speedboat or seaplane. Flights arrived as scheduled on Wednesday. Opposition parties, despite their differences, united against Nasheed during the constitutional crisis and protests, criticizing his Islamic credentials. The Maldives is predominantly Sunni Muslim. Analyst N. Sathiya Moorthy praised Nasheed for being the first democratically elected president but also noted the constitutional and political deadlocks he faced. Moorthy commended Nasheed for his commitment to democratic principles by gracefully stepping down from office. In a clear indication that the period before Nasheed had come back, the national broadcaster MNBC was rebranded as TV Maldives and started airing numerous interviews with opposition leaders. This was the same name it had during Gayoom's 30-year rule, who was known for his authoritarian approach and was Nasheed's opponent. Nasheed spent a total of six years in prison, across 27 arrests, while fighting for democracy against Gayoom. Nasheed defeated his rival in a 2008 election, marking the first multi-party democratic vote in the history of the former British colony, which is home to around 330,000 people and was a sultanate for many centuries. He was also praised for his strong advocacy on climate change and the threat of rising sea levels to the low-lying nation. | 1 |
President Emmanuel Macron, who is 44 years old, is currently the favored candidate in the upcoming election. He has decided to delay announcing his candidacy until close to the March deadline, a strategy that reflects his preference for keeping his opponents on edge. Macron, who is comfortable in his centrist position, has observed as the right and extreme-right parties attack each other. The dominant issues in the election campaign are immigration and security, overshadowing other topics such as climate change and the country's increasing debt due to the coronavirus pandemic. Éric Zemmour, a far-right candidate, has gained popularity by spreading anti-immigrant sentiments, claiming he is the only one standing between French civilization and being overtaken by Islam and American political correctness. Similar to former President Donald Trump, Zemmour relies on continuous provocation to remain in the spotlight, as seen in his recent conversation with Trump. Despite this, Macron is currently leading in polls, with approximately 25% of the vote projected for the first round of the election on April 10. Zemmour and two other right-wing candidates are polling in the range of 12%-18%. On the other hand, left-wing parties are lagging behind and appear to be mere bystanders for the first time since the establishment of the Fifth Republic in 1958. France, which typically leans right, has taken a sudden shift this time. According to Pascal Bruckner, an author and political philosopher, the left lost support from the popular classes due to its lack of a stance on immigration and Islam, causing many to shift to the far right. As a result, Macron is now seen as a versatile candidate who is up against the right. Macron's strong position is attributed to his handling of the coronavirus pandemic and the economy, with the economy growing by 7% in the last quarter and unemployment at a low of 7.4% in France. It is likely that COVID-19 measures, including mask requirements, will be lifted before the election, serving as a significant symbolic gesture. The challenge of attacking Macron lies in his ability to represent both the remaining aspects of social democracy in France and policies typically associated with the right, such as his strong stance against "Islamist separatism." Macron's flexibility has been noted by Bruno Le Maire, while his predecessor François Hollande has criticized him for shifting his beliefs. The upcoming election will see the top two candidates from the first round facing off on April 24, with a focus on securing a spot in a runoff against Macron. Marine Le Pen, a vocal anti-immigrant candidate, has been critical of rival Zemmour and accused him of supporting extremist views. Zemmour, known for his extreme belief that Islam is not compatible with France, has criticized Macron for attempting to differentiate between extremist Islamism and the religion itself. Zemmour has also criticized Macron for not accepting the idea of the "great replacement," a racist theory suggesting that white Christian populations are intentionally being replaced by nonwhite immigrants, leading to what Zemmour refers to as the "Creolization" of societies. The president is confident in his chances against either Le Pen or Zemmour, despite Zemmour's ability to challenge taboos and appeal to conservative French voters on the hard right. While France is facing challenges such as rising energy costs and pandemic fatigue, a disruptive choice like the election of Trump in the US or Brexit in Britain would come as a surprise. Retirement Paulette Brémond, who voted for Macron in 2017, is now torn between supporting the president or Zemmour. She remarked that the immigration issue is serious and she is eagerly awaiting to hear Mr. Macron's stance on it. While she doubts he will take as extreme a position as Zemmour, if he sounds effective, she may vote for him again. She feels that until Macron officially announces his candidacy, the campaign has not really begun, a sentiment shared by many in the country where political maneuvering seems like mere shadow boxing for now. This does not seem to bother the president, who has emphasized his focus on important state matters such as his diplomatic efforts in Ukraine and Mali. If Mali has been a notable disappointment, even though it is not likely to influence many voters, the Ukraine crisis has given Macron the opportunity to appear as Europe's unofficial leader in seeking positive engagement with Russia, as long as it does not escalate into war. Zemmour and Le Pen, who together make up around 30% of the vote, openly admire Putin. A member of Macron's potential reelection team, who requested anonymity as per government protocol, expressed more concern about potentially facing the center-right Republican candidate, Valérie Pécresse, in a runoff rather than facing Le Pen or Zemmour in the second round. Pécresse, a graduate of the same prestigious school as Macron, a competent two-term president of France's most populous region, and a centrist by nature, could potentially attract center-left and left-wing voters who view Macron as a traitor in the second round. However, Pécresse's chances may have been diminished by a poor performance in her first major campaign speech in Paris this month, although not necessarily irreparably. One recent poll showed her support dropping to 12% from 19% in December. Pécresse has shifted to the right due to the prevailing atmosphere in France, a country heavily impacted by Islamist terrorism. She referenced "the great replacement" in her campaign speech, causing controversy. In a TV interview, she defended herself against accusations of aligning with the extreme right. Pécresse also criticized the idea of a Macron-Zemmour duel, stating that voting for Le Pen or Zemmour ultimately supports Macron. Macron's initial presidency focused on modernizing the French economy through changes to labor laws, tax reforms, and attracting foreign investment. Following the Yellow Vest movement's protest against growing inequality and wealthy financiers, including Macron himself, who was criticized for being indifferent to widespread social suffering, the coronavirus pandemic hit. This forced Macron to shift from a free-market reformer to a proponent of state intervention, declaring in 2020 that "We have nationalized salaries" without hesitation. The consequences of these actions will need to be faced in the future, but for now, Macron, known for his tendency to shift positions frequently, appears to be enjoying the success of controlling the pandemic. “He was fortunate,” a member of his campaign team remarked. "The COVID pandemic prevented him from having to implement more unpopular reforms." While unforeseen events such as a European war, a new virus variant, a major terrorist attack, or a surge in social unrest could still occur, Macron's strategy of staying detached from the chaos appears to be successful for now. "Unless a disaster happens, it is hard to imagine Mr. Macron not being reelected," Bruckner commented. However, the true campaign will only begin when the current leader finally enters the tumultuous fray. ©2022 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
Last year, there was a change in the job market in Midland, Michigan. Signs started appearing in windows advertising job openings at places like McDonald's, Walgreens, and Taco Bell. It was clear that there was a high demand for workers in the area. Haner started to question why work couldn't be centered around individuals like himself. He left his job at Applebee's and took a remote sales position at a tech company. He took a chance on the new opportunity, confident that if it didn't work out, he could easily find another job. Last year, over 40 million people left their jobs, particularly in retail and hospitality, leading to what was dubbed the Great Resignation. However, people were not abandoning work entirely. They still needed to earn money. A lot of the financial assistance provided during the pandemic ended in the fall, and savings rates decreased to 6.4% by January, the lowest in nine years. However, workers discovered that they could find more lucrative opportunities for employment, such as higher wages and stable hours. Flexibility was a key aspect that employees were seeking from their employers, and it seemed like they were receiving it. Applebee's emphasized the importance of the safety of its workers and customers. The company's chief operations officer, Kevin Carroll, stated that any aggressive behavior was not allowed. Workers across the nation had many opportunities and could now reject things they were previously required to endure, such as strict bosses or mistreatment from customers. In order to keep businesses operating successfully, employers had to start paying attention to their employees' needs. Nick Bunker, director of economic research for North America at Indeed's hiring lab, noted that rather than a rejection of work, many people saw the abundance of job opportunities as a way to support themselves financially. As vaccines and stimulus money became available, businesses faced a shortage of workers and employees used this opportunity to reassess their expectations from their employers. However, this did not result in millions of people quitting their jobs and abandoning remote work altogether. It meant that low-wage workers would leave their current jobs and go to another business with a "hiring" sign. It also meant that white-collar workers, benefitting from the tight labor market, would assert their preferences for how and where they work. Tim Ryan, US chair of PwC, stated that their employees have significant influence, as the company undergoes a three-year transition to allow for more flexible work options, including remote work. This transition is a substantial investment, estimated at $2.4 billion. The scale of this workplace change is so significant that the executive of the 55,000-employee company used a Disney reference from 2003 to describe it, likening it to a line from "Pirates of the Caribbean." Ryan continued by referencing Capt. Hector Barbossa's dialogue about ghost stories, stating that we are currently experiencing a significant transformation in the workplace without even realizing it. Data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics and the census indicates that many people who left their jobs last year actually switched to a different job instead of quitting altogether. The data shows a close correlation between the rate of quitting and swapping. Job switchers are primarily in the leisure, hospitality, and retail industries, with a notable increase in workers quitting in leisure and hospitality from 4% to nearly 6% since the start of the pandemic. In the retail sector, the job quitting rate increased to almost 5% from 3.5%. While white-collar employers continued to have difficulty hiring, they experienced a decrease in resignations. In industries such as finance, media, and technology, the rate of quitting remained low, just under 2%. When employees changed jobs, they often received higher pay. Wages in leisure and hospitality grew by nearly 10% in the past year, and by over 7% in the retail sector. Workers were able to work longer hours due to a decrease in the number of people working part-time involuntarily. While a small percentage of individuals left the workforce, mainly older men retiring before age 65, some are now returning to work. The retirement of baby boomers and fewer younger people entering the workforce has led to a tighter labor supply. Overall, people are still actively participating in the workforce as they cannot afford to stop working. In the past year, there has been less resignation and more movement towards new jobs, increased hours, and higher pay. Workers have not changed their feelings towards work, but rather their expectations. According to Rebecca Givan, an associate professor of labour studies at Rutgers, workers are now demanding more from their bosses and holding them accountable. Porsha Sharon, 28, recalls witnessing customer outbursts at Buddy's Pizza in Troy, Michigan, where customers would become upset over simple requests. Other customers made fun of Sharon for wearing a mask, asking her if she was dense. Sharon endured eight-hour shifts at the pizzeria that left her with burning pain in her swollen feet. In March, she received an offer to work as an administrative assistant at a law firm, a job she had previously done temporarily in college. Last month, she quit the pizzeria. Sharon reflected on how the previous generation stayed in miserable jobs because they felt they were supposed to, but she is grateful that her generation is different and does not feel obligated to stay in unhappy work situations. Katy Dean, the chief operating officer of Buddy's Pizza, a restaurant chain in Michigan, expressed how some employees feel overwhelmed and physically ill due to being overworked. She mentioned that dealing with abusive customers has become a difficult aspect of the current food service industry. In response to disrespectful behavior from guests, managers are given the authority to ask them to leave the restaurant. This situation at work has been labeled as lacking in ambition, but it has led many employees to demand better working conditions and benefits such as promotions, stable schedules, sick leave, and retirement plans. A sign outside a McDonald's featured in a viral TikTok video stated, "No one wants to work anymore." Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich responded by stating that no one wants to be taken advantage of anymore. Last year, when millions of people decided to leave their jobs, the impact was felt beyond just the companies and industries involved. While white-collar workers were not resigning as quickly as those in hospitality and retail, they still made strong demands of their employers, recognizing the low unemployment rate and high competition for talent. According to Bunker, there is a fear of resigning rather than actual resignations, as employees are aware of their bargaining power and are using it, especially in terms of flexibility. The closure of offices resulted in employees feeling a sense of independence that they were not willing to give up. Even some high-ranking executives on Wall Street realized that traditional practices were no longer feasible. Companies such as Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and BNY Mellon informed their employees that their return to the office would be a combination of in-person and remote work, rather than requiring them to commute five days a week. Only 8% of Manhattan office workers have resumed working in the office full-time, according to recent data from the Partnership for New York City. Lyssa Walker White, 38, stated that her quality of life greatly improved after transitioning to a nonprofit job earlier this year, as her previous employer expected her to return to the office, which she found unappealing. Some employers proceeded to ask their employees to come back to the office for at least part of the week, only to encounter resistance. Apple, for instance, mandated a three-day office return policy and received a strongly-worded letter from employees expressing their strong opposition to in-person work. The workers urged the company to stop trying to dictate their office presence and instead allow them to determine what works best for them in order to produce their best work. Apple chose not to respond to the letter and is maintaining its hybrid return-to-office policy. Other white-collar workplaces saw newly established unions advocating for remote work. The Nonprofit Professional Employees Union, for instance, saw a significant increase in membership from 12 organizations and 300 workers in 2018 to approximately 50 organizations and 1,300 workers this year. One organization within the union negotiated for managers to cover travel expenses for workers who had to commute, while another successfully pushed for written justification to be provided to employees required to return to the office. During a recent industry conference, Jessica Kriegel, the head of people and culture at Experience.com, exchanged stories with fellow human resources colleagues about navigating the demands of a more empowered staff. There were stories of employees requesting salary increases that were four times their current pay. Stories were also circulating about changes in company strategy meetings, which used to be exclusive retreats in Napa, California, but were now including junior staff in town hall meetings. Kriegel mentioned giving a significant raise to a top performer and witnessing another individual receive three promotions in just one year, going from a contributor to a director to a vice president. Kriegel noted that some employees were seeking title changes on LinkedIn without any financial promotion, even at the entry level. The human resources director finds it surprising when coworkers complain about overworking, as she observes her staff pushing for the type of work they desire. She mentioned that people are starting to feel more confident and less fearful, emphasizing that it is not about being against ambition but rather having great ambition. Haner, who previously worked at Applebee's, recently received a 16% raise at his new job, significantly increasing his hourly pay compared to what he earned at Applebee's. He excitedly talks about the meaningful discussions he has with his manager when friends inquire about his new job. Unlike at Applebee's, where he expected disapproval for requesting time off for his grandfather's funeral, he was pleasantly surprised to learn that his new company offers bereavement leave. Even though work is still work, the feeling of dread when his morning alarm goes off has lessened because of a newfound sense of respect from his employers. | 1 |
A senior policy adviser stated that China is getting ready to implement its initial strategy to combat climate change, indicating a growing concern about global warming in a country that has experienced unchecked economic growth. Zou Ji, a climate policy expert at the People's University of China in Beijing, informed Reuters that the national plan will likely establish broad objectives for reducing emissions and adapting to changing weather patterns. After a minimum of two years of preparation and negotiations within the bureaucracy, the plan is expected to be unveiled this year. Zou emphasized that the plan reflects China's recognition of the escalating worldwide concern that greenhouse gases from industrial facilities, power plants, and vehicles are causing a rise in average temperatures and could potentially have catastrophic effects on the climate. He noted that the Chinese government is increasingly prioritizing this issue. China's first official, comprehensive document on climate change is expected to be approved and issued soon. A U.N. panel of scientists recently warned that human activity is likely the cause of global warming, with temperatures projected to rise by 1.8 to 4.0 Celsius in the 21st century. This could result in more droughts, heatwaves, and rising sea levels for over 1,000 years. China is rapidly growing to potentially become the world's third-largest economy by 2008, surpassing Germany and trailing behind only Japan and the United States. Additionally, it is predicted to become the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases by 2009, surpassing the United States according to the International Energy Agency. Zou, a member of the Chinese delegation to international climate talks since 2000, noted that while Beijing's public response to the panel's findings has been subdued, the government is closely considering the numerous warnings. Pan Yue, a vice minister of China's State Environmental Protection Administration, stated that wealthy countries bear the primary responsibility for reducing emissions, but China will also make contributions. He emphasized that as a responsible major power, China will not shirk its duty. Zou mentioned that the program is currently awaiting approval from the State Council after being reviewed by multiple ministries and agencies, but its release may be delayed due to preparations for an upcoming Communist Party congress. Alan Dupont, an expert on climate change and security at the University of Sydney, explained that President Hu Jintao is facing a dilemma on how to implement policies that promote economic growth and job creation while also reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions. Dupont emphasized that the stability of the regime and the future of China rely on sustaining economic growth, but there is a growing awareness in China that addressing climate change is crucial for achieving their goals. Despite China's secretive government, there are indications that Beijing is increasingly concerned about the potential impact of global warming on their aspirations for prosperity, stability, and influence. Zou stated that climate experts are getting ready to give a presentation on global warming to China's top leaders. This marks the first time that one of their usual study sessions will focus on climate change, indicating that the issue is gaining importance in the political sphere. | 1 |
During the UN climate talks in Copenhagen, a group of small island states reported that more than half of the 192 nations present supported tougher goals for limiting global warming than those favored by wealthier nations. The Small Island States alliance expressed concern that many island nations were not represented on a globe displayed at the conference center. Dessima Williams, head of AOSIS, stated that over 100 nations have committed to limiting temperature rises to 1.5 Celsius above pre-industrial levels, an increase from the 86 nations that supported this goal in August. She emphasized that a significant portion of the United Nations is advocating for ambitious and specific targets. The least developed nations, primarily in Africa, and small island states are united in their support for the 1.5 Celsius goal, which would necessitate substantial cuts in greenhouse gas emissions by wealthy nations by 2020. Any agreement made in Copenhagen must be approved by all parties involved. The main challenges to reaching a deal in Copenhagen include determining the extent of greenhouse gas reductions by wealthy nations and deciding on the amount of financial aid to be provided to developing countries. The majority of developed countries and key emerging economies, such as China and India, support a target of limiting temperature increase to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Current temperatures have already increased by 0.7 degrees Celsius and are expected to continue rising. Williams stated that those in vulnerable areas are already experiencing the effects of climate change and emphasized the need for a legally binding treaty from Copenhagen rather than a non-binding political agreement favored by many developed nations. She mentioned that despite the current warming trend, many islands were experiencing severe damage such as going underwater or losing their fresh water supply. Some coral reefs were also being harmed by increasing temperatures. There were disagreements within the developing nations' group regarding a proposal from Tuvalu for strong, legally binding agreements from Copenhagen for all countries. While AOSIS members supported Tuvalu's proposal in theory, they were still figuring out a unified stance. China and India supported legally binding reductions in greenhouse gases for wealthy nations under the Kyoto Protocol but wanted less strict requirements for poorer nations. Barry Coates, a representative for Oxfam, compared a political declaration from Copenhagen without legal consequences to a toothless shark. Antonio Lima from Cape Verde and vice chair of AOSIS likened climate change to the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius that destroyed Pompeii, stating that now we are aware of the impending disaster facing the planet. | 1 |
During a recent climate protest event in Dhaka, Khalidi highlighted the impact of people power in global protests. He drew parallels between Gandhi and Bangabandhu, both of whom led non-violent movements against oppressive forces. Gandhi's efforts indirectly led to violence in post-1947 India, while Bangabandhu faced brutal military opposition from the Pakistani army during his protests. Khalidi points out that the influence of leaders like Gandhi and Bangabandhu can be seen in the current climate protests led by young activists worldwide. Recently, the #ShutdownDC protest saw thousands of activists bring traffic to a standstill in the US capital without resorting to violence. Khalidi emphasized the urgent need for action against climate change, stating that the destruction of nature poses a greater threat than all the wars in human history combined. He also noted that Gandhi and Bangabandhu worked towards creating fair and safe societies during their lifetimes. Khalidi, along with historian Dr Muntasir Mamun, spoke about the shared goals of climate protesters at a seminar organized by the Gandhi Ashram Trust to honor the 150th and 100th birth anniversaries of the founding fathers of India and Bangladesh. The event, held at the National Museum in Shahbagh, was also attended by various notable figures including Agriculture Minister Dr Mohammed Abdur Razzaque, former fisheries and livestock minister Narayon Chandra Chanda, Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das, and Gandhi Ashram Trust’s Chairman Swadesh Roy. Agriculture Minister Abdur Razzaque highlighted the impact of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman on contemporary issues during the discussion. Photo: Mostafigur Rahman. Photo: Mostafigur Rahman Religion had a significant impact on politics during the eras of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu, however, they did not engage in politics based on religion, as stated by the agriculture minister. He emphasized that both Bangabandhu and Gandhi understood that religion should not be utilized for political gain, with Gandhi even denouncing religious fanatics who exploited religion for their own agenda. The minister highlighted Bangabandhu's strong belief in this principle, mentioning how the Awami Muslim League was originally formed by separating from the Muslim League and eventually removing the word "Muslim" from its name. Razzaque, a member of the Awami League’s presidium, stated that during that time, the Muslim League was seen as synonymous with religion. Criticizing the Muslim League was seen as criticizing religion itself. Bangabandhu took steps against the Muslim League, as mentioned by Razzaque. The minister also noted that Gandhi's words and tactics remain relevant today. Gandhi demonstrated through his movement against the powerful British forces that nonviolence and non-cooperation can be just as effective. Nonviolent resistance requires active participation and inspiration, according to High Commissioner Riva Das. She explained that Mahatma Gandhi believed in the power of righteousness, truth, and moral courage over force, might, and imposed submission. History shows that violence only leads to more violence, breeding hatred and revenge. She also cited Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr as examples of successful nonviolent leaders. Das emphasized the importance of applying Gandhi and Bangabandhu's ideals in everyday life, rather than just during specific events. Narayon Chandra Chanda, a former minister and member of parliament, emphasized the importance of young people in Bangladesh embracing the spirit of the Liberation War as they strive for development. He urged them to honor the sacrifices of Bangabandhu and the freedom fighters by working towards building a diverse and multicultural nation. Speaking at a discussion organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust, Narayon highlighted the unwavering commitment of both Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu to securing the rights of the people through nonviolent means, even in their personal lives. Despite facing allegations of corruption, Bangabandhu's integrity remained intact as he never compromised on his principles. Professor Muntasir Mamun, a history teacher at Dhaka University, spoke at a discussion organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. He mentioned that Gandhi kept politics separate from religion, and also commented on the intelligence reports about Bangabandhu, stating that there is no evidence of him using religion in politics. Prof Mamun criticized the ruling party's policies, noting that even Bangabandhu's daughter Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League have utilized religion in some capacity after his passing. The journalist Swadesh Roy encouraged the youth to follow the examples set by Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in order to address global problems. The seminar was moderated by Raha Naba Kumar, the Trust's Director, who emphasized that the teachings of these two great leaders are still relevant in overcoming current injustices and issues. Khalidi highlighted how Gandhi and Bangabandhu utilized their networking skills and ability to inspire the masses through personal sacrifices in their fight for freedom. He also pointed out that the stories of these leaders are particularly applicable in addressing contemporary problems, such as climate change, where the wealthy and powerful are often the main culprits. According to Khalidi, the countries with the most advanced economies and mechanised societies are the biggest polluters, capable of destroying human civilization multiple times over in a matter of minutes or seconds. He also highlighted how both Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman fought against the mighty and powerful during their lifetimes, teaching the world how to deal with and defeat them. It is believed that even in the afterlife, they continue to make an impact. Toufique Imrose Khalidi, Editor-in-Chief of bdnews24.com, spoke at a discussion organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum on Thursday to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Khalidi highlighted that Bangladeshi households are spending nearly Tk 158 billion a year on repairing damages from climate change and taking preventive measures, which is significantly more than what international donors provide and double the amount spent by the government. This financial burden is forcing rural families to divert resources and borrow from informal sources at high-interest rates, pushing them further into poverty. According to the International Institute for Environment and Development, both Gandhi and Bangabandhu would have spoken up to help these families, as mentioned by Khalidi. Even though they are no longer present, their influence continues to shape the world. For example, Bangabandhu's leadership during the Bangladesh liberation war in 1971 garnered global support despite facing opposition from powerful nations. | 1 |
A fresh series of UN climate negotiations commences on Monday as nearly 200 countries gather in Mexico with the goal of reaching a consensus on crucial issues that are causing a divide between wealthy and developing nations. The conference, taking place over two weeks in the coastal town of Cancun, aims to establish agreements on financing and strategies to protect rainforests and prepare for a warmer planet. Additionally, efforts will be made to formalize existing goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The atmosphere surrounding the event is much less grand compared to last year's Copenhagen summit, which sought to finalize a new climate treaty but ultimately resulted in a non-binding agreement that was rejected by several developing nations. The ongoing UN discussions have put the United States and China, the world's top two carbon emitters, against each other, with the US pushing for China to take more action on emissions, mirroring similar tensions around trade and human rights. On the eve of the negotiations, Mexican President Felipe Calderon highlighted the economic benefits of addressing climate change in order to overcome the distrust from the previous summit. He emphasized that the choice between protecting the environment and addressing poverty, and between addressing climate change and promoting economic growth, is not a true dilemma. Calderon spoke about the importance of renewable energy and unveiled a wind turbine to power the conference hotel. He stated that the focus of the talks would be on preparing for a warmer world, a particularly important issue for poorer nations, with a primary emphasis on adaptation. This statement caused concern among European Union negotiators, who insisted that the negotiations must also result in stronger commitments to existing emissions targets, including from developing countries. "We will be seeking a limited number of decisions in Cancun. Our goal is to establish a clear path forward," stated Artur Runge-Metzger, a senior EU negotiator, on Sunday. Peter Wittoeck, a senior negotiator with Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, mentioned, "We can see the potential for a compromise." The primary objective of the negotiations is to reach a more stringent climate agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol, which is set to expire in 2012, in order to intensify efforts to combat global warming. Studies released on Sunday suggested that, in the worst-case scenario of climate change, global temperatures could rise by 4 degrees Celsius (7.2F) by the 2060s, necessitating an annual investment of $270 billion to mitigate the effects of rising sea levels. | 1 |
The Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, Mahuta said, will bring unique qualities to her leadership. As the first woman representing foreign affairs in New Zealand, Mahuta expressed her commitment to working in the best interests of their countries. She looks forward to finding areas of common interest and hopes for future collaboration. Her enthusiasm reflects a global desire for a change from right-wing populism. New Zealand, with its inclusive and competent government led by charismatic women like Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, is seen as a promising alternative to the current political climate. Ardern and her team are now facing heightened expectations after successfully managing the COVID crisis. Despite three years of leading a coalition government with few policy achievements on key issues like inequality, Labour now has the majority to enact its agenda. The newly elected majority in Labour is predominantly comprised of women, with diverse representation including the first African descent member and several LGBTQ+ members in Parliament. Additionally, there are lawmakers from Pacific island and Maori descent in the 120-member legislative body. This Parliament is the most diverse in New Zealand's history, representing the country's demographics and its connections to the Pacific islands. Richard Shaw, a politics professor at Massey University in Palmerston North, described it as a significant development. Prime Minister Ardern's executive council, which was recently sworn in, includes a mix of trusted allies. Grant Robertson, the finance minister, was appointed as deputy prime minister, becoming the first openly gay lawmaker to hold that position. Additionally, Ardern appointed several members of Maori and Pacific island descent to her council. Mahuta, 50, was a surprising addition to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's cabinet, as she brings a reputation as an honest broker to the diverse team. Mahuta entered Parliament at 26 with a master's degree in social anthropology after working as a researcher for her Tainui tribe in the lead-up to a historic treaty with the government. Her father was the lead negotiator and her aunt was the Maori queen. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand addressed the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan on September 27, 2018. The new foreign minister, Nanaia Mahuta, is known for being an impartial mediator and has joined Ardern's cabinet, which is the most diverse in New Zealand's history. Despite her reputation, Mahuta prefers to focus on reading briefing papers rather than seeking attention, demonstrating a no-nonsense and measured approach. She was known for her honesty as she transitioned through different roles. From handling negotiations over water rights as an associate environment minister, to resolving disputes as a local government minister, to facilitating trade agreements as a customs minister, she was always guided by integrity. In her new position, she is expected to focus on organizing safe tourism during the COVID-19 pandemic in the region, as well as strengthening economic ties with other Pacific Island nations and Australia. David Cunliffe, a former leader of the Labour Party who has worked with Mahuta for nearly twenty years, praised her appointment to foreign affairs as an excellent decision. He described her as someone who works diligently without seeking personal recognition. Mahuta, in an interview on Thursday, revealed that she had not actively pursued the foreign affairs role, although she had considered it. She expressed surprise at the offer but eagerly accepted the opportunity to enhance New Zealand's international standing and collaborate closely with Pacific Island nations. The region has gained increased significance and attention as a result of China's growing influence and investments in recent years. US officials believe that Mahuta and her team, including defence minister Peeni Henare, will be embraced as equals in the region and will serve as a strong opposition to Beijing. Mahuta's promotion is being celebrated in the Maori community, which makes up 17% of New Zealand's population, despite some cultural controversies. In 2016, Mahuta became the first woman in Parliament to showcase a moko kauae, a traditional facial tattoo. When her promotion in foreign affairs was announced, a conservative New Zealand author criticized the tattoo as inappropriate for a diplomat. However, many New Zealanders showed support for Mahuta, emphasizing that her appointment is not just about diversity, but also a significant moment in history and politics. Mahuta, a prominent figure in the Maori King Movement, has been appointed to New Zealand's foreign ministry, symbolizing the progress of the country. However, this appointment is just the start for Ardern's government, facing both domestic and international challenges such as climate change and economic struggles. To address these issues, experts like Oliver Hartwich suggest bold measures like reforming education and tax structures to promote equality and affordable housing. He stated that there is a reluctance to make necessary changes and take risks. Cunliffe, a former leader of the Labour Party, mentioned that both Ardern and President-elect Joe Biden's administrations need to be transformative while also convincing skeptics. He believes that defeating populism requires progressive actions that benefit both supporters and critics, not just winning at the ballot box. Mahuta also agreed with this sentiment. She expressed her desire for innovative solutions to be adopted from the Indigenous community, focusing on values such as manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga. She acknowledged that economic inequality is a major challenge for numerous countries and emphasized the need to move away from traditional approaches. | 1 |
With many polls indicating that Scott Morrison's conservative coalition is likely to lose in the May 21 election, the government is focusing on its national security credentials, particularly its tough stance on China. Morrison emphasized the importance of being vigilant against Chinese influence in Australia, citing past instances of foreign interference. These remarks were made in response to a question regarding Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews' claim that China's timing of revealing its recent deal with the Solomons was a form of interference in Australia's election. China has denied any targeting of third parties and has called for Australia to respect their choices. The announcement of the security agreement with the Pacific nation raised concerns about the possibility of a Chinese military presence less than 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Australian shores, highlighting the shortcomings of Morrison's coalition in terms of national security. Following criticism from Australia's opposition Labor party, Morrison's government has responded with stricter measures, including a ban on foreign political donations and a register of foreign representatives. Morrison emphasized that the legislation was necessary due to concerns about Chinese government interference in Australia. The Prime Minister of the Solomon Islands, Manasseh Sogavare, stated that the country would not participate in any militarization in the Pacific and signed the China deal because they felt that the security pact with Australia was insufficient. | 1 |
While Ukraine successfully conducted a peaceful presidential election recently, the situation in the eastern region near the Russian border remains tense, with armed groups attacking Ukrainian government forces and taking over state buildings. The G7 stated that they were prepared to increase targeted sanctions and consider more restrictive measures against Russia if necessary. German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the importance of ensuring stability in Ukraine and warned of the possibility of imposing heavy sanctions if progress is not made. The United States and European Union have already implemented some sanctions in response to Russia's actions in Crimea, but further measures could be taken if the situation does not improve. However, the smooth conduct of the May 25 elections and upcoming inauguration of President Petro Poroshenko have been seen as signs of potential cooperation from Russia, reducing the immediate threat of additional sanctions. However, Wednesday's statement indicates that the West is still not convinced that President Vladimir Putin is taking sufficient measures to ease the tensions. Russia denies involvement in the uprising in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow militias have taken control of buildings, attacked Ukrainian forces, and declared independence. While Putin has been excluded from the G7 summit, he will have one-on-one meetings with Merkel, Hollande, and Cameron at a D-Day anniversary event in France. The focus is on what will be discussed in these meetings rather than who Putin is meeting with. Obama has met with Ukrainian President Poroshenko to show support for the new leadership. Poroshenko has expressed willingness to hold peace talks with Putin, although no meeting has been scheduled yet. The G7 summit will also address economic, trade, climate, and energy policies, with a particular emphasis on energy security, as Europe is heavily dependent on Russian oil and gas. The leaders will stress the importance of ensuring the security of energy supplies and condemn the use of energy resources as a tool for political manipulation or security threats. The crisis in Ukraine highlights the importance of prioritizing energy security and taking significant steps to diversify energy sources. The economic discussions among G7 members, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Britain, Japan, and Italy, will focus on sustaining economic recovery and implementing stricter regulations to prevent future issues in the banking sector. The leaders will also reaffirm their dedication to completing financial reforms this year, including addressing the issue of "too-big-to-fail" banks. | 1 |
An unexpectedly positive German business sentiment report boosted the euro and European stocks on Wednesday, while concerns about the US economy continued to weigh on the dollar. The weakening dollar led to increased interest in commodities like oil and gold, which had recently experienced a decline in prices. Despite a softer US economic outlook, global demand for commodities is expected to remain strong, particularly due to robust economies like China. The Ifo institute reported an improvement in German corporate sentiment in March, with firms expressing a more optimistic view of the economic situation. This positive trend has helped alleviate some of the pessimism surrounding the global economy, with the Ifo report exceeding expectations for the third consecutive month, according to Audrey Childe Freeman, a European economist at CIBC World Markets. "It reinforces the idea that Germany is separating from the euro zone, and also suggests that the ECB will not be lowering rates soon," she stated. The Ifo economic research institute reported an increase in its business climate index to 104.8 from 104.1 in February, based on a survey of approximately 7,000 companies. This rise reduced investors' inclination towards safe assets, causing euro zone government bonds to decrease from their initial highs. This news followed a day where US consumer confidence hit a five-year low in March, and a separate report showed a significant decrease in home values in January, leading to concerns about American spending habits. The FTSEurofirst 300 index initially dropped but later recovered slightly, while Germany's DAX remained steady and London's FTSE 100 index decreased by 0.3 percent. Swiss miner Xtrata experienced a significant loss of approximately 9 percent following the breakdown of takeover talks with Vale, the world's largest iron ore miner. The previous day, European stocks had increased by about 3 percent, led by banks, after JPMorgan's offer to buy Bear Stearns was raised five-fold, alleviating concerns about the impact of the credit crunch on the sector. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei closed 0.3 percent lower, while MSCI's measure of other Asian stock markets rose by 0.6 percent. The MSCI world equity index saw a slight increase of 0.2 percent. The dollar weakened against a variety of major currencies, reflecting ongoing worries about the state of the US economy. The dollar index dropped by 0.6 percent, causing the euro to increase by half a US cent to approximately $1.5646 following the Ifo report. The 10-year Bund yield remained relatively stable at 3.872 percent, while the benchmark 10-year yield for US Treasuries decreased by 2.4 basis points to 3.517 percent. US light crude for May delivery rose by 73 cents to $101.94, and gold slightly increased to $940.50 per ounce from around $934.60 per ounce late in New York on Tuesday. | 1 |
European Union leaders have decided to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable fuels, urging other countries to follow their example in combating climate change. German Chancellor Angela Merkel praised the bloc's ambitious decisions, such as setting a binding target for renewable energy to account for one fifth of EU energy consumption by 2020, positioning the EU as a leader in the fight against global warming. After a two-day summit, Merkel emphasized the potential to prevent a major catastrophe, highlighting the newfound cooperation among the 27 EU nations. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso echoed Merkel's sentiments, stating that Europe is leading the charge in addressing climate change and encouraging other countries to join in. The EU package includes targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and using biofuels. This will impact all 490 million citizens in the bloc, as energy-saving lighting will be mandatory in homes, offices, and streets by the end of the decade. Barroso believes that Europe can benefit economically by leading in green technology, but businesses are worried about costs and losing competitiveness to cheaper foreign competitors. The agreement establishes Europe-wide objectives for reducing CO2 emissions and promoting renewable energy, but individual countries must agree to specific targets, leading to potential conflicts between Brussels and national governments. Merkel succeeded in securing a binding target for renewable fuels like solar and wind power, which was a highly debated issue. Leaders agreed to the 20 percent target for renewable sources in exchange for flexibility on individual country contributions. The United Nations, which has been overseeing global efforts to combat climate change, praised the plan as ambitious in the face of increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Deputy UN spokeswoman Marie Okabe emphasized that ambition and leadership are crucial in addressing climate change, which she described as one of the most significant challenges humanity is facing. British Prime Minister Tony Blair described the targets as groundbreaking, bold, and ambitious for the European Union. "It will require a significant amount of effort for Europe to achieve this, but it will establish Europe as a leader on this important global issue," he informed reporters. The summit statement addressed the needs of countries with various energy sources, including nuclear energy in France, coal in Poland, and limited resources in countries like Cyprus and Malta. The leaders agreed to a goal of reducing EU greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020, with a possibility of increasing to 30 percent if other major nations also commit. Additionally, they set a target of 10 percent for biofuels in transportation by 2020, ensuring cost efficiency. However, they did not support the European Commission's proposal to require large utility companies to sell or separate their generation and distribution businesses. Instead, they reached an agreement on the importance of effectively separating supply and production activities from network operations, without mentioning the breakup of energy giants like E.ON, RWE, Gaz de France, and EDF. Currently, renewables make up less than 7 percent of the EU energy mix, and the bloc is not meeting its targets for renewable energy and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. French President Jacques Chirac argued for nuclear power to be included in Europe's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as it generates 70 percent of France's electricity. However, several EU countries oppose atomic power or are phasing it out, like Germany. Poland secured a commitment to solidarity among member states, implying that western Europe would aid former Soviet bloc states if Russia were to cut off energy supplies. Many ex-communist member states in central Europe were hesitant to agree to the renewables target due to concerns about costs from the green energy revolution. Merkel, as chair of the Group of Eight industrialized powers, aims to lead the EU in setting the environmental agenda. The summit's decisions will influence the EU's stance in international discussions to replace the UN Kyoto Protocol in 2012. Environmentalists praised the agreement as a significant development, despite being critical of EU actions in the past. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left for Switzerland on Tuesday to participate in the World Climate Conference-3. She took a regular flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines to London at 8:45am, accompanied by Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, State Minister for Environment Hassan Mahmud, her press secretary Abul Kalam Azad, and daughter Saima Wazed Putul. The delegation was seen off by cabinet ministers, three military chiefs, and other high officials at Zia International Airport. Mahmud stated in the VIP Lounge that Bangladesh would request compensation from countries accountable for climate change. The theme of the five-day summit, which started on Monday and is organized by the World Meteorological Organisation, is 'Better Climate Information for Better Future'. The summit will continue until September 4. Bangladesh is leading the 50-member LDC Group, comprising countries most at risk from the harmful effects of climate change, largely due to emissions from developed nations. | 1 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his shock at the recent car bombing in Algiers that killed 17 UN staff. Ban, who was visiting the site of the attack, stated that terrorism is never justified and must be condemned by the international community. He also mentioned his shock at the attack, which was one of two bombings that occurred in Algiers on December 11, resulting in the deaths of at least 37 people. These attacks were the second major bombing in the capital this year, as the country looks to rebuild following a devastating civil war in the 1990s. "I offer my heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Algeria, as well as to the families of the victims and my UN colleagues." Ban was taken in a heavily guarded convoy to the Hydra district of the city, where he assessed the damage at the UN's refugee agency and the UN Development Programme offices. Journalists were not allowed to go with Ban to the site. The second suicide car bombing on December 11 affected the Constitutional Court building in the Ben Aknoun district. Responsibility for the attacks was claimed by Al Qaeda's North African branch, who stated that they were targeting those they referred to as "the slaves of America and France." Ban and President Abdelaziz Bouteflika of Algeria discussed their decision to collaborate closely in the fight against terrorism, as well as their conversations on climate change, illegal migration, and the issue of Western Sahara. The United Nations has confirmed that 14 Algerians and one victim each from Denmark, Senegal, and the Philippines were among the deceased UN employees. Ban condemned the bombings as an attack on those who serve humanity under the UN banner, while UN Development Programme Administrator Kemal Dervis mentioned the organization's plans to enhance security at its offices worldwide following the attacks, noting that this would require additional funding. | 1 |
However, it is uncertain when this large nuclear power plant will start supplying power to France's electrical grid. The construction is significantly delayed, being a decade behind schedule and over budget by 12 billion euros. The plans to begin operations this year have been postponed to 2024. These issues at Flamanville are not isolated, as Finland's newest nuclear power plant, which just started operating, was originally planned to be completed in 2009. President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine have prompted Europe to reduce its reliance on Russian natural gas and oil, leading to a growing interest in nuclear power as a source of domestic energy and stable electricity. Advocates believe that nuclear energy could help alleviate Europe's impending energy crisis, especially as the continent transitions towards renewable energy sources like solar and wind power to meet climate change objectives. However, the push for a nuclear revival faces obstacles, including political divisions within Europe over the use of nuclear power. While pro-nuclear countries like France advocate for increasing nuclear capacity, others such as Germany are opposed due to concerns over radioactive waste. The recent European Commission proposal to decrease reliance on Russia did not include nuclear power as an option to be considered. The challenges faced by the Flamanville-3 project, a pressurized-water reactor intended to generate 1,600 megawatts of energy, such as delays and cost overruns, are indicative of the broader technical, logistical, and cost obstacles hindering expansion. Despite nuclear power currently accounting for a quarter of the EU's electricity production, predominantly from aging reactors built in the 1980s, with France being the largest producer, plans for up to 13 new-generation reactors in France will not be operational until at least 2035, too late to address the current energy crisis. Britain has announced plans for eight new nuclear plants, but the reality is less optimistic. Five of the current British reactors are set to be decommissioned due to age, while only one new nuclear station is currently being built in southwest England. This project, led by France, is expected to be operational by 2026. Other nuclear projects in Eastern Europe are not expected to be completed before 2030. According to Jonathan Stern from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, nuclear projects take at least a decade to complete. "The main issue is finding an alternative to Russian gas, and this needs to be addressed now, not in ten years when more nuclear reactors may have been built," he stated. Supporters believe nuclear power could be a viable solution if there is enough political support. In response to Russia's aggression towards Ukraine, Belgium's government, in collaboration with the Green party, decided to extend the lifespan of two nuclear reactors for another ten years instead of phasing out nuclear energy by 2025. This decision will help Belgium reduce its reliance on Russian gas by expanding renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to meet European climate targets by 2035. "The invasion of Ukraine was a turning point," Belgium's energy minister, Tinne Van der Straeten, remarked last week, clarifying the government's change in direction. "We aimed to decrease our imports from Russia." However, in Germany, which is heavily reliant on Russian gas and coal, the suggestion of using nuclear power to address an energy shortage is not gaining traction. Germany is set to shut down its remaining three nuclear plants by the end of the year, following a decision made after the Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan in 2011 to phase out all 17 reactors. Although two major energy companies in Germany are willing to delay the closures to reduce dependence on Russia, the Green party, a part of the governing coalition, opposes the idea of continuing to operate or reopening the nuclear stations. Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated in parliament that Germany has decided to phase out nuclear power for valid reasons and delaying the exit is not a favorable option. Despite some countries viewing nuclear power as a viable alternative, there are numerous obstacles to overcome. Mark Hibbs, a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, explained that President Emmanuel Macron's ambitious plans for a nuclear power resurgence in France will not happen quickly. The estimated cost of 50 billion euros for new-generation atomic reactors is a significant barrier for other European countries. Additionally, the industry needs to train a new generation of nuclear power engineers, further delaying progress. As other technologies advance rapidly and become cheaper, nuclear power is not keeping pace and is becoming more expensive. In the meantime, France's aging reactors are undergoing safety inspections, hindering their ability to assist with energy shortages in Europe. "There will be a decrease in nuclear production in France this year unless a miraculous solution is found, but unfortunately, there is no such solution," she stated. However, Moscow's aggression might help reverse the industry's gradual decline. There have been optimistic announcements recently, such as Britain's decision to expand its nuclear capacity and the Netherlands' plan to build two more reactors in addition to their existing one, to complement their renewable energy sources. In Eastern Europe, several countries near Russia had been planning to construct numerous nuclear reactors, a decision that now seems wise in light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. NuScale Power, an Oregon-based company, is promoting a new reactor design that they believe will be more cost-effective and faster to build by assembling key components in factories. The company has secured preliminary agreements in Romania and Poland, with the recent Russian invasion prompting customers to consider nuclear energy as part of their energy portfolio. Nuclearelectrica, the Romanian power company, is moving forward with plans for a NuScale plant and two Canadian reactors to enhance energy security in response to the Ukraine crisis. Analysts believe that Russia's actions will ultimately support the European goal of greater energy independence in the long term. Text = Copyright 2022 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
China, a member of the group, was expected to eventually approve the deal, as analysts had predicted. The Chinese stance was made clear during discussions between Premier Wen Jiabao and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the East Asia Summit, which included 16 nations. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama faces political risks with his upcoming announcement of a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan, particularly as his Democratic Party prepares for challenging midterm congressional elections. Obama will reveal the strategy at West Point military academy, likely involving a substantial increase in US troop levels and potentially a plan for exiting the conflict. Republicans are pushing for decisive action, while many Democrats have reservations, presenting a difficult situation for a president striving to fulfill his political commitments. Obama is facing a decision on whether to grant General Stanley McChrystal's request for up to 40,000 more US troops in Afghanistan, or to listen to advisors who suggest a smaller deployment of 10,000 to 20,000 additional troops and a larger role for Afghan forces. Influential figures in Obama's Cabinet and military chiefs are in favor of a troop increase of 30,000 or more, potentially reaching 35,000 with US trainers included. This decision is crucial for the future of the US-led war in Afghanistan, where there are currently 68,000 US soldiers and a total of about 110,000 troops fighting against Taliban insurgents. The conflict is part of a broader campaign against al Qaeda, with potential risks for neighboring countries like Pakistan and US allies like Britain. This decision could also impact Obama's domestic agenda, as the cost and wisdom of the US campaign in Afghanistan come under scrutiny. Opinion polls indicate that Americans are divided on the situation in Afghanistan, with many feeling weary from the long war in Iraq and their own economic challenges. A recent poll by The Washington Post and ABC News revealed that 46 percent of Americans support sending a large number of troops to combat insurgents and assist the Afghan military, while 45 percent prefer a smaller troop deployment. Additionally, the poll showed that 48 percent of Americans disapproved of President Obama's handling of the situation in Afghanistan, compared to 45 percent who approved. Of particular concern for Democrats is the decline in approval among independents, a key voting bloc that helped elect Obama in 2008, which now stands at a low of 39 percent. There are doubts about the situation in Afghanistan, which coincide with widespread concerns among Americans regarding issues such as high unemployment, government bailout programs, the federal budget deficit, and healthcare reform. The upcoming November 2010 elections could see a decrease in Democratic legislative majorities due to the anti-incumbent mood. Many liberal Democrats are against further involvement in Afghanistan, with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticizing Afghan President Hamid Karzai and questioning the need for more U.S. aid. Other prominent Democrats have advised Obama to specify the U.S. plan for exiting Afghanistan. General McChrystal, during a recent briefing for a group of U.S. lawmakers, indicated that the number of American troops in Afghanistan could start to decrease after reaching a peak in 2013. Additionally, an upcoming international conference in London is aimed at establishing conditions for gradually transferring security responsibilities to the Afghan government. Some experienced Democratic lawmakers have suggested implementing a "war tax" on wealthy Americans to fund the conflict, despite the unpopularity of such a proposal during an election year. Democrats are hoping to distance themselves from an unpopular war with no clear resolution by pushing for a more cautious approach to military spending, potentially saving billions of dollars annually. Republicans are using Obama's Afghanistan decision-making process as a way to demonstrate their strong stance on national security and criticize the perceived indecisiveness of the Democratic president. Former Vice President Dick Cheney believes Obama's delay in reviewing options is causing doubt among allies in the region and troops on the ground. Mitch McConnell, the Republican Senate leader, advised Obama to continue putting pressure on the Taliban. Meanwhile, 14 House Republicans wrote a letter to Obama supporting General McChrystal's request for 40,000 additional troops. Republicans are aiming to demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding the United States against threats and regain the support of voters in swing districts who have become disenchanted with Obama. On the other hand, Democrats argue that Republicans are attempting to divert attention from the inability to defeat the Taliban after seven years of military operations during George W. Bush's presidency, who dedicated more troops to the war in Iraq. | 1 |
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree stating that foreign buyers must pay for Russian gas in roubles starting on Friday or risk having their supplies cut. This move has been rejected by European capitals, with Berlin accusing Putin of blackmail. The decision leaves Europe facing the possibility of losing more than a third of its gas supply, with Germany already activating an emergency plan that could result in rationing. Putin is using energy exports as a powerful tool to retaliate against Western sanctions imposed on Russian banks, companies, businessmen, and associates of the Kremlin in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow refers to as a "special military operation." In his televised address, Putin stated that purchasers of Russian gas must establish rouble accounts in Russian banks for payment, effective April 1. Failure to do so will be considered a default with serious consequences. Putin emphasized that existing contracts will be terminated if payments are not made in roubles, despite opposition from the European Union and G7 countries. His choice to require payment in roubles has increased the value of the Russian currency, which had plummeted to record lows following the February 24 invasion. The rouble has since regained a significant amount of lost value. Companies and governments in the West have refused to alter their gas supply contracts to accommodate the change in payment currency, with most European buyers currently using euros. Executives have stated that renegotiating these terms would be a lengthy process, taking months or even longer. Paying in roubles would help reduce the impact of Western restrictions on Moscow's access to foreign exchange reserves. European countries are scrambling to find alternative energy sources, but with limited options in the tight global market. The US has offered more liquefied natural gas, but it's not sufficient to replace Russia's supplies. Germany's Economy Minister stated that Russia's attempts to divide Europe have failed, and Western allies refuse to be manipulated. Berlin announced it will keep paying for Russian energy in euros. France's economy minister Bruno Le Maire mentioned that France and Germany are getting ready in case Russian gas supply is stopped. Le Maire did not provide any details about the technical aspects related to Russia's new requirement for payments in roubles. Putin's recent order allows for payments to be processed through special foreign currency and rouble accounts at Gazprombank, with foreign currency being exchanged for roubles through currency auctions on a Moscow exchange. Putin stated that this change would enhance Russia's independence because Western countries are using the financial system as a weapon, and it would be illogical for Russia to continue trading in dollars and euros when assets in those currencies are being frozen. "We have provided European customers with our resources, specifically gas, and they have paid us in euros which they then held onto. It is apparent that we have delivered some of the gas to Europe almost at no cost," he stated. Putin emphasized that this situation cannot persist and that Russia still holds its business reputation in high regard. "We will adhere to and will continue to honor all contractual obligations, including those related to gas contracts. We will maintain the supply of gas in the specified quantities, as outlined in our existing long-term contracts," he stated. Several European companies with contracts with Russia either had no immediate response or chose not to comment following Putin's announcement, causing further unease in the market. In recent months, European gas prices have surged due to escalating tensions with Russia, heightening the risk of a recession. The sharp increase in energy prices has already led to production cuts by companies in industries such as steel and chemicals. Poland's PGNiG, which has a long-standing contract with Russia's Gazprom that is set to expire at the end of the year, did not provide an immediate response." The Polish Ministry of Climate did not provide a comment right away. Poland's agreement with Gazprom is for 10.2 billion cubic meters of gas annually and is in dollars. Eni, an Italian energy company that is also a significant purchaser of Russian gas, did not comment either. Eni purchased approximately 22.5 billion cubic meters of Russian gas in 2020. Its contracts with Gazprom are set to expire in 2035. Buyers of Russian gas from Germany - Uniper, RWE, EnBW and VNG - did not provide a comment in response to requests. | 1 |
Water is crucial in Bangladesh, where it is a matter of survival. The country is known for its rivers, coastlines, and strong-willed population. However, 2020 has presented unprecedented challenges. Cyclone Amphan caused widespread destruction in the south-western regions, followed by monsoon rains that flooded one-third of the country, displacing thousands and ruining crops. Dealing with the aftermath of water damage, including pollution and disease, can be extremely difficult. It is especially challenging this year due to the impact of Covid-19, which has made it hard to obtain clean water necessary for sanitation and preventing the spread of the virus. Currently in Dhaka, the water levels in the Brahmaputra and Padma basins are lowering, allowing my people to begin rebuilding their lives amidst the ongoing threat of the pandemic. We are evaluating flood protection measures and offering assistance to those impacted. As usual, we are making plans to improve our readiness for future disasters, as in Bangladesh there is always the possibility of another crisis. The climate crisis is always active. I wish to caution nations and financial institutions who believe they are unaffected by the climate crisis: there is no escaping it. The Covid-19 pandemic has proven that no country or company can thrive in isolation. We must work together to address worldwide challenges. Additionally, the pandemic has highlighted that it is simpler to prevent crises than to treat them. This means that in 2020, it is crucial that we make a concerted effort to heed the advice of scientists. We are currently dealing with a serious global crisis that encompasses climate change, health issues, and threats to nature. The loss of biodiversity is being worsened by climate change, and this in turn is making the situation more severe. Bangladesh is not the only place feeling the impact of natural disasters, as wildfires have also been devastating regions like the Amazon, Australia, California, and Siberia. Cyclones and hurricanes have caused extensive damage in the US, Caribbean, and parts of Asia. The UK, which will host the COP26 climate summit next year, has also experienced floods. The root cause of climate change is the unsustainable nature of human activities. In recent years, we have seen an increase in floods, heavy rainfall, cyclones, heatwaves, landslides, and droughts with greater severity and intensity, posing a threat to food security. It is crucial that we acknowledge the seriousness of these challenges. A one meter increase in sea level will submerge many small islands and coastal nations, while floods caused by melting glaciers will devastate mountainside countries. This will result in millions of people becoming climate refugees, overwhelming the world's capacity to provide shelter. The G20 countries are responsible for approximately 80% of emissions, while the bottom 100 countries only contribute 3.5%. The emitters bear a significant responsibility and are required to make substantial contributions in order to reduce global temperature rise to 1.5C. As the current leader of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, Bangladesh is calling for additional assistance from the international community and the G20 to increase financial support and technology access for faster adaptation in countries most vulnerable to climate change. Among these countries, Bangladesh is well-prepared for extreme weather, with initiatives such as building sea walls, planting mangrove forests, and incorporating resilience into all government activities. However, Bangladesh cannot tackle these challenges alone. Sixty-four countries and the EU have recently signed the Pledge for Nature in order to address the planetary emergency. Together, these nations represent approximately 1.4 billion people and a quarter of the global gross domestic product. It is now crucial to establish a shared political determination both domestically and globally. As the upcoming hosts of the COP, G7, and G20 meetings, the UK and Italy are tasked with leading this effort and providing necessary assistance to the most affected countries. Business leaders, CEOs, CFOs, and investors at all levels must also contribute to this cause. You might think that your main focus is on quarterly results, but what truly matters is our shared bottom line: if the environment is so damaged that it cannot safeguard us, we will all face consequences. Events in one part of the world can impact financial markets globally. Rising sea levels will affect everyone. The solution lies in a fundamental change in both government policies and business practices, moving towards lower carbon emissions and promoting environmental care over exploitation. A recent study conducted by Vivid Economics on the response to Covid-19 indicates that its effect on climate change has been varied. I applaud the EU for emphasizing a environmentally friendly recovery. We intend to follow suit in Bangladesh, and I sincerely hope that my fellow government and business leaders will do the same. While job creation is important, so is preparing for future jobs and establishing a sturdy foundation for the long term. Climate change, pandemics, and the degradation of nature are shared challenges. We should come together to strive for a shared goal of creating a cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and safer world. In Bangla, we have a saying: "Bhabia korio kaj, koria bhabio na" which means to think before taking action, rather than regretting it afterwards. We should avoid irreversible actions. | 1 |
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