body
stringlengths 6
42.2k
| labels
int64 0
6
|
|---|---|
Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd impressed China with his fluent Mandarin, but his complex and jargon-filled English confuses his fellow Australians. Newspapers criticized Rudd for his reliance on diplomatic language and acronyms, with one columnist noting that he sometimes creates his own language. Despite this, Rudd received acclaim for delivering a speech in Mandarin on human rights and Tibet at a Chinese university. Australian newspapers pointed out that Kevin Rudd's communication style in Chinese was very different from his use of English. They highlighted a comment he made about climate change after meeting with the British prime minister as an example of his complex and technical language, which they referred to as "geek talk". The Sydney Morning Herald also noted Rudd's tendency to use acronyms like EWS, RTP, and CCS, suggesting that he still retained his bureaucratic way of speaking despite leaving the government.
| 1 |
The demand for change during the 2008 presidential campaign is also evident in U.S. House and Senate races as Democrats are expected to increase their control of Congress. Polls indicate that voters prefer Democrats on various issues, such as the Iraq war, the economy, and energy, and feel that the country is heading in the wrong direction as President George W. Bush's term comes to a close. Despite the challenges faced by Democrats, including the low approval rating of the divided Congress, where Democrats gained control in 2007, Republicans have managed to hinder Democratic efforts on issues like withdrawing from Iraq. Stu Rothenberg of the nonpartisan Rothenberg Political Report stated that the public is seeking change. He explained that when voters consider who is in power, they primarily focus on the president rather than Congress. Rothenberg noted that voters tend to express their frustration by voting against the president's party. Senator Barack Obama of Illinois gained momentum in the Democratic presidential race by promoting a message of "hope and change" in Washington, despite facing challenges posed by political conflicts. Obama's message of "change" was so well-received that both his Democratic rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton, and the presumptive Republican nominee, Sen. John McCain, have adopted it. In November, voters will not only choose the next president to succeed Bush, but also elect one-third of the Senate and the entire House of Representatives. Democrats currently hold a slight majority in the Senate, 51-49, and in the House, 233-198 with four vacancies. It is anticipated that Democrats will pick up a few seats in both chambers, and there is a slim possibility of reaching the 60-seat threshold in the Senate to overcome Republican filibusters. The most recent time that either party had a Senate majority that could not be filibustered was in 1977-78 when the Democrats were in power. According to Jennifer Duffy from the Cook Political Report, there is a possibility that Democrats could reach 60 seats if everything goes well, but the chances are low due to the difficult political climate. There are 23 Senate seats up for election, with five of them currently held by retiring Republicans and others facing strong competition. All 12 Senate Democrats who are up for re-election are predicted to win, according to Senator John Ensign of Nevada, who is the chairman of the Senate Republican campaign committee. Ensign stated that a successful outcome for Republicans would be to maintain 47 or 48 seats, compared to the current 49. However, he doesn't believe that Democrats will reach 60 seats. On the other hand, Senator Charles Schumer of New York, who is the chairman of the Senate Democratic campaign committee, expressed optimism about the direction things are moving in for Democrats. Despite Democrats having more fundraising success and fewer congressional retirements than Republicans, they are worried about potential repercussions from the heated Obama-Clinton competition in the Democratic primary. House Democratic campaign committee chairman Rep. Chris Van Hollen expressed concerns about the lasting impact of internal party conflicts on the November election. Although he does not believe it will result in Democrats losing control of Congress, it could hinder their efforts to gain more seats. According to Andrew Kohut of the Pew Research Center, a strong performance by McCain in the presidential race could prevent further Republican losses in Congress. Kohut stated that the top of the ticket is very important because McCain performs well with independents, who often determine the outcome of elections. Democrats are aiming to counter any assertion that McCain or other Republicans represent "change" by linking them to Bush, who has low approval ratings. Van Hollen noted that even though Bush is not running this year, his presence still influences the elections. House Republicans must provide explanations for their seven years of supporting unsuccessful Iraq and economic policies. Rep. Tom Cole, the chairman of the House Republican campaign committee from Oklahoma, dismissed such concerns by stating that he believes their prospects have been underestimated. He pointed out that Democrats gained control of Congress in 2006 by blaming Republicans for various issues, such as the Iraq war, economic challenges, and high gas prices. Cole mentioned that now that Democrats have control of both the House and Senate, they also bear some responsibility for the negative perceptions of Washington.
| 1 |
European Union leaders have agreed to send administrators and police to Kosovo in anticipation of its declaration of independence from Serbia. In an effort to ease tensions in the Balkans, they have also offered Serbia a quicker path to joining the EU once certain conditions are met. However, Serbia has rejected the idea that this offer is meant to compensate for the loss of Kosovo. The EU leaders have stated that negotiations on Kosovo's future have reached a standstill and that a resolution needs to be reached. They decided not to fully support independence. Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates, the chairman of the summit, stated that sending an ESDP mission to Kosovo was a political decision that shows the EU's intention to take the lead on Kosovo and the region's future. The ESDP mission consists of 1,800 personnel including police, justice officials, and civilian administrators. Socrates stated that discussions about the EU recognizing Kosovo's independence were ongoing at the United Nations, emphasizing that the EU is actively addressing the issue rather than ignoring it. French President Nicolas Sarkozy acknowledged that the EU is facing challenges regarding Kosovo's anticipated independence. It was reported that Cyprus, Greece, Slovakia, and Romania are opposed to recognizing Kosovo's sovereignty without a UN Security Council resolution. "ON A PLANE"? EU leaders, after resolving an institutional stalemate, shifted focus to addressing challenges in the Balkans, globalisation, and immigration. The EU expressed confidence in Serbia's bid to join the bloc, with hopes of accelerating progress towards candidate status. Pro-EU moderates in Belgrade aim for candidate status by next year, a timeline deemed ambitious but feasible by EU Enlargement Commission Olli Rehn. Typically, it takes up to two years for Brussels to grant candidate status after signing a Stabilisation and Accession Agreement (SAA). The signing of an SAA with Belgrade has been delayed due to the failure to transfer Bosnian Serb wartime general Ratko Mladic to a UN war crimes tribunal in the Hague on genocide charges. Outgoing chief war crimes prosecutor Carla Del Ponte has urged EU leaders to maintain pressure on Belgrade to deliver indictees, criticizing France, Germany, and Italy for wanting to soften their stance. She is counting on Belgium and the Netherlands to remain firm. Dutch Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen has stated that he will not sign the SAA until Mladic is taken to the Hague. EU leaders have appointed former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez to lead a new group that will discuss the long-term future of the EU, covering issues such as enlargement, climate change, and regional stability. Two vice-chairs of the panel were named as well, including ex-Latvian President Vaira Vike-Freiberga and Nokia chairman Jorma Ollila. The leaders also addressed public concerns about European job markets being strained by immigration and cheap imports, which they hope to focus on now that the new Lisbon Treaty has been ratified. The treaty, which replaced the abandoned constitution, aims to streamline the EU's structures to accommodate enlargement following the addition of 12 ex-communist states in 2004 and 2007. Critics argue that it will limit the control a nation has over its own affairs and instead give more authority to Brussels.
| 1 |
This country may become the first to approve the British drugmaker's vaccine, as the British medicine regulator is still reviewing trial data. India, known for being the largest vaccine producer globally, aims to begin vaccinating its citizens next month and is also considering emergency use authorization for vaccines from Pfizer Inc and Bharat Biotech. Distributing vaccines to India, a country with high infection rates, would be a significant step in fighting the pandemic. The AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is crucial for lower-income countries and regions with hot climates due to its affordability, ease of transport, and long shelf life at regular fridge temperatures. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization of India first evaluated the three applications on Dec. 9 and requested additional information from all companies, including the Serum Institute of India, which produces the AstraZeneca vaccine. According to two sources, SII, the largest vaccine manufacturer in the world, has now submitted all the necessary data. Authorities are still awaiting further details from Pfizer, as mentioned by a government health adviser at a news briefing on Tuesday. Additionally, one of the sources indicated that more information is expected from Bharat Biotech. Both sources mentioned that Indian health officials are communicating directly with British counterparts regarding the AstraZeneca vaccine, and there are strong indications that approval will be granted by next week. The anticipated approval follows the release of data from AstraZeneca's late-stage trials in the UK and Brazil earlier this month, showing varying efficacy rates for different dosing regimens. Despite the higher success rate in a smaller sub-group receiving a half, then a full dose, the Indian regulator is only considering the two full-dose regimen for approval. One of the sources announced that the serum is prepared and there could be around 50 to 60 million doses initially. The sources chose to remain anonymous due to ongoing discussions and the potential for the timeline to change. V.G. Somani, the CDSCO chief, did not respond to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech and Pfizer chose not to comment, while SII did not immediately respond to an email requesting comment. India has not finalized a contract for vaccine supply with any company, however, the Serum Institute of India (SII) has already accumulated over 50 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine and aims to manufacture a total of 400 million doses by July.
| 1 |
According to bdnews24.com senior correspondent Abdur Rahim Harmachhi, the government is preparing to announce a budget of around Tk 100,000 crore for the upcoming fiscal year. The finance adviser has proposed allocating up to 15 percent of this amount for subsidizing essential commodities. This will be the first time in history that a caretaker government has proposed a complete budget for two consecutive fiscal years. Finance adviser AB Mirza Azizul Islam, who will deliver his second budget speech on Monday, mentioned that around Tk 15,000 crore will be allocated for fuel, food, and fertiliser subsidies, which is three times higher than the previous fiscal year. Despite exceeding Tk 70,000 crore in spending on non-development sectors, the overall budget deficit is expected to remain under five percent. Mirza Aziz stated that there would be no tax rate increases in the upcoming fiscal year, but import duties on certain goods may be raised to support local industry. He highlighted that challenges such as fuel price hikes, the global food crisis, and climate change-induced natural disasters were major factors influencing Bangladesh's budget preparation. Despite the significant pressure on the economy from soaring oil prices in the international market, the government has not yet decided to raise fuel prices. Aziz emphasized that even with oil prices reaching $139 a barrel as the budget announcement approached, the government opted not to increase fuel prices considering the overall situation. The adviser mentioned that a barrel of fuel cost $62 on the global market when the government last raised fuel prices in the country in 2007. In the fiscal budget for 2007-08, the overall deficit was projected at 4.2 percent. The adviser stated that the budget deficit was expected to slightly increase in the following year due to higher subsidies to sectors such as fuel, fertilizer, and food. However, he reassured that it would not exceed 5 percent. Efforts to widen the tax net on a large scale were also mentioned as a way to increase revenue income. The expected revenue increase for the upcoming fiscal year is 17 percent. In the 2008-09 budget, it was planned for Tk 43,850 crore to be generated from NBR-controlled sources. The adviser mentioned that the tax system in the budget would be favorable for businesses, with measures in place to limit the discretionary power of tax officials and simplify the tax collection process. The target GDP growth rate is set at 6.5 percent, and the projected annual inflation rate is around 9 percent. The finance adviser had initially targeted a 7 percent GDP growth for the fiscal year 2007-08, with an average inflation rate of 6 percent. However, due to floods and cyclones, achieving the 7 percent growth was not possible. It was expected that the growth rate for the year would be below 6 percent, but recent data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics revealed a growth rate of 6.21 percent. In the previous fiscal year (2006-07), GDP growth was 6.5 percent. Mirza Aziz expressed his main worry about the economy of Bangladesh being inflation. He pointed out that the point-to-point inflation rate decreased by three percentage points to 7.7 percent in April, according to data from the Bureau of Statistics. In March, the point-to-point inflation rate was 10.06 percent. He also mentioned that agriculture will be the top priority in the upcoming budget, with the highest allocation being made for this sector in the development budget. Mirza Aziz announced that the government has devised plans to create job opportunities for impoverished individuals in the upcoming fiscal year. As part of the scheme, one member from each family will be compensated for 100 days of work. Additionally, the government plans to increase the number of recipients of various social safety net benefits. Aziz also mentioned that efforts will be made to boost the purchasing ability of individuals with fixed incomes. Furthermore, a dearness allowance will be introduced for government employees to alleviate the burden of rising prices. The finance adviser's budget speech will be shown live on government and private TV and radio channels at 3pm on Monday. Just like last year, the government is encouraging public review of the proposed budget by sharing the budget speech, summary, and annual financial statement on www.mof.gov.bd. Printed copies will also be available starting at 3pm on Monday. Anyone can access these documents, download information, and provide feedback to the government by completing forms until 5pm on June 16. Comments, recommendations, and criticisms can also be submitted in writing, and will be taken into account when finalizing the approved budget to ensure public involvement in the process. The government has identified specific websites where the public can access the proposed budget, including www.bangladesh.gov.bd, www.nbr-bd.org, www.plancomm.gov.bd, www.imed.gov.bd, www.bdpressinform.org, and www.cao.gov.bd. Additionally, links to the budget documents will be provided on other government websites under the finance ministry and bdnews24.com.
| 1 |
Australia, previously criticized for not ratifying the Kyoto Protocol, has now called for the climate pact to be abolished. The Environment Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, believes that Australia will still meet its targets under the pact, despite warnings of rising Greenhouse Gas emissions. Turnbull suggests that Kyoto should be replaced with a new global agreement that includes major players like India, China, and the United States. He expressed doubt that the United States would ever ratify the protocol in its current form, stating that the protocol's first commitment period is quickly becoming a thing of the past. The Kyoto Protocol, which imposes emissions limits on wealthy countries but not on poorer ones like China, is set to expire in 2012. Australia, the top coal exporter globally, has chosen not to ratify the agreement or mandate reductions in carbon emissions, citing potential harm to the economy. Instead, Australian Prime Minister Turnbull announced a $15.2 million investment in China to reduce emissions by capturing methane from mining activities for electricity generation. China, a member of a competing Kyoto pact with the US, Australia, Japan, India, and South Korea, opposes emissions restrictions due to concerns about economic growth. Turnbull favors practical steps to combat climate change, criticizing Kyoto for overlooking the importance of halting deforestation in developing nations like Indonesia and Brazil. He stated that Kyoto's results have been disappointing. The Climate Institute reported that Australia, the biggest polluter per person, would exceed its limit of 108 percent of 1990-level greenhouse emissions. Turnbull disputed this with the latest 2005 data. Senator Christine Milne accused Turnbull of trying to hide the fact that energy and transport emissions had increased in the last two years due to the country's mining and commodity export boom. Prime Minister John Howard believes that climate change solutions should be internationally agreed upon rather than limited to industrialized European nations like 'Old Kyoto.' With the government facing re-election and polls showing 80 percent of voters are concerned about climate change, Howard has introduced various environmental measures to enhance his environmental credentials. Australia is anticipated to prioritize taking action against climate change in the upcoming May 8 Budget, with the government indicating plans to allocate A$10 billion towards improving water management in response to a prolonged drought.
| 1 |
France's president-elect Nicolas Sarkozy will begin his foray into international diplomacy by meeting with British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who is preparing to leave office after ten years. The two leaders, who are both in their 50s, have a good relationship and share similar views on various issues, such as the need for a revised European constitutional treaty. Their discussions will focus on upcoming important meetings within the European Union and the G8, starting at 1530 GMT after Blair meets with outgoing President Jacques Chirac. Blair's spokesman stated that the discussions with Sarkozy will cover key international meetings related to the EU treaty and climate change, as well as follow-up on the Gleneagles agenda. Blair, who will step down on June 27, publicly welcomed Sarkozy's election with a message in French posted on YouTube. He mentioned that the success of the right-winger provides a great opportunity for Britain and France to collaborate in the future. Sarkozy is pushing for a less ambitious treaty to modernize the EU's institutions to be approved by parliament and has ruled out another referendum on the constitution. Blair's spokesman stated that he does not speak for Nicolas Sarkozy and that they will discuss the matter. The prime minister is in favor of an amended treaty instead of a full constitution. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, whom Sarkozy will meet next week after officially becoming president, has made reviving the charter a priority during her EU presidency. Sarkozy has emphasized the need to address the ongoing doubts stemming from France's strong opposition to the U.S.- and British-led war in Iraq. He has made it a priority to improve relations with Washington and London. His visit to Berlin on Wednesday, the day he assumes office, demonstrates his recognition of the significance of the traditional alliance with Germany. German government spokesman Thomas Steg described the visit as a powerful signal of Franco-German friendship.
| 1 |
Prime minister Sheikh Hasina has proposed that Bangladesh and the Maldives collaborate in addressing the negative consequences of climate change, as both countries are highly vulnerable to rising sea levels. The suggestion was made during a meeting with the Maldives ambassador in Dhaka, Ahmed Fareer, who informed Hasina that the Maldives plans to host climate change discussions in Asia before the 16th United Nations climate change conference. Hasina emphasized the need for the two countries to work together to combat the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events and sea level rise. Additionally, she requested that the Maldives government consider hiring professionals from Bangladesh and importing goods such as medicines, clothing, and ceramic products. The prime minister promised to provide full support from Bangladesh to establish the 'Bangladesh-Maldives University' in the Maldives, according to Islam. Also in attendance were PM's principal secretary MA Karim, PMO secretary Mollah Wahiduzzman, and ambassador at large Ziauddin Ahmed.
| 1 |
Critics suggest that Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, who initially promised cautious reforms upon taking office, may actually be keeping the Kremlin seat warm for a return by Vladimir Putin. Despite being almost halfway through his term, there is little evidence that Medvedev is making progress on opening up Russia's political system, modernizing its economy, combating corruption, and establishing the rule of law. Opposition leaders have labeled the recent local elections in October as the dirtiest in Russia's history, while NGOs and business leaders report that corruption remains rampant. Additionally, Kremlin-aligned regional leaders accused of misconduct have been reappointed to their positions. Every day, there are reports of police and court power being abused. According to Vladimir Ryzhkov, who was the last independent deputy in the Russian parliament until he was unable to run for reelection in 2007 due to changes in election law, Medvedev has not shown a real desire to reform. He is only making minor changes to give the appearance of reform without actually implementing any significant changes. The Kremlin stated that they are preparing detailed information to highlight Medvedev's achievements since his election in March 2008, but this information is not currently available. Medvedev's spokeswoman, Natalya Timakova, mentioned that the president plans to focus on political system reforms, improving the investment climate, stabilizing the North Caucasus region, and finalizing a nuclear arms agreement with Washington this year. An analysis by the Interfax news agency found that Russian state-run media has been attempting to improve the president's reputation. The analysis noted that mentions of Medvedev in Russian media last year were more frequent than those of Putin. However, pollsters suggest that Putin's popularity among the general population has been boosted by the economic growth and stability experienced during his presidency from 2000 to 2008. This popularity has continued during Putin's current role as prime minister. The elite in Russia also hold Putin in high regard, as evidenced by Chechen president Ramzan Kadyrov's recent comments in a Reuters interview praising Putin as a "very strong leader of world stature." He did not mention Medvedev. Western powers had hoped that Medvedev would be more flexible and accommodating than Putin, but those hopes quickly faded when Medvedev led Russia into a conflict with Georgia in 2008. Last year, Moscow raised expectations for entering the World Trade Organization, signing a nuclear arms reduction treaty with the United States, and agreeing to harsh sanctions against Iran for its nuclear program, but has not followed through on any of these agreements. Officials say that in each case, Putin had the final say, not Medvedev, revealing where the true power lies in Russia's ruling partnership. Officials from both the Kremlin and the White House, which is Putin's prime ministerial offices, publicly assert that the "tandem" is a close and productive working relationship between two equals who have respect for each other's constitutional areas of expertise. For instance, Medvedev recently called a meeting to discuss reforms to Russia's political system, which is mainly controlled by the Kremlin's United Russia bloc, likened by critics to the Soviet-era Communist Party. However, Putin had the final say, emphasizing the importance of carefully considering any changes to the political system and ensuring it remains stable and not easily influenced. According to a senior diplomat, Putin's message was straightforward: there will be no significant political reforms in Russia. Investors are also aware of where the power lies. When asked about the potential reaction of Russian markets to a departure by Medvedev, a chief strategist at a Moscow bank said it would not have much impact. However, the same strategist predicted chaos if Putin were to leave. However, the frequent differences in public demeanor between Putin and Medvedev have led some observers of Russia to speculate about disagreements between them, or even suggest that there might be a power struggle occurring within the elite. Supporters of Medvedev are particularly eager to promote this idea in order to enhance his image as a reformer, according to diplomats. According to this narrative, Medvedev's lack of progress in implementing reforms is attributed to his cautious approach so as not to antagonize Putin. Advocates for the president argue that Medvedev will eventually take more decisive action at an unspecified point in the future. However, many individuals with connections to those in power dismiss such speculation. Opposition journalist Yulia Latynina argues that there cannot be a real struggle between a man in power (Putin) and a man without power (Medvedev). Critics also believe that Medvedev, an experienced insider who has worked closely with Putin for nearly two decades, is unlikely to have a hidden reform agenda that he has not shared with his well-informed boss, a former KGB spy. Many analysts predict that unless there is a major financial crisis, Putin will likely return to the presidency in 2012, taking advantage of a constitutional reform that extended the term of the Kremlin chief to six years, which was the most significant political reform enacted by Medvedev. If re-elected, Putin, who is currently 57 years old, could remain in office until 2024 before being required to step down by the constitution. Olga Kryshtanovskaya, an expert on the Russian elite and a member of United Russia, stated that Putin is more popular and trusted than Medvedev. I recently returned from a trip to the provinces where I found that the general belief is that Putin will return in 2012. This is a popular opinion that I also hold, as I believe Putin has greater resources and support.
| 1 |
The Netherlands, a country with abundant irrigation resources, has shown interest in assisting Bangladesh in upgrading its irrigation system. Foreign adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury had meetings with the Dutch foreign minister and development cooperation minister in Amsterdam on Monday, as stated by the foreign affairs ministry on Tuesday. During the meeting with development cooperation minister Bert Koenders, Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury emphasized the need for Dutch aid to be channeled through the government rather than NGOs and multilateral agencies. They discussed potential areas of cooperation such as modern irrigation systems, livestock and dairy, food processing, and agro-business development. Additionally, Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury also met with Dutch counterpart Maxime Verhagen. Bangladesh described the Netherlands as a reliable partner for development during a recent meeting, according to the foreign ministry. Iftekhar encouraged the Dutch foreign minister to increase imports from Bangladesh beyond just ready-made garments, suggesting areas like small and medium ship manufacturing. They also agreed to collaborate on climate change issues. Verhagen promised support for the electoral process and discussed preparations for the Jatiya Sangsad polls with the adviser. Iftekhar highlighted the importance of a European Union Observer Mission for the upcoming elections while briefing the Dutch minister on the government's reform programs. Bangladesh Ambassador to the Netherlands Mizanur Rahman, along with director general of the foreign ministry M Zulfiqur Rahman and the Dutch envoy to Bangladesh Bea Ten Touscher, attended the meetings.
| 1 |
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) stated that the growth outlook and business climate have deteriorated, while also cautioning about the possibility of inflation increasing. Despite market expectations of a rate cut, the RBI did not hint at reducing the cash reserve ratio (CRR) that banks must maintain with the central bank. The RBI had kept interest rates stable in December after multiple increases between March 2010 and October 2011. The RBI emphasized that future rate decisions will depend on core inflation and the impact of exchange rate changes. Core inflation, which tracks price changes in non-food manufactured goods, has remained at or above 7 percent for 11 months, well above its typical rate of around 4 percent. Contributing to inflationary pressures, the rupee depreciated by 16 percent against the dollar in 2011, leading to increased costs for essential imports like oil. Despite a decrease in annual headline inflation to a two-year low of 7.47 percent in December due to a significant drop in food prices, manufactured product inflation saw a slight increase. The RBI mentioned that there are still risks of inflation from various factors such as limited supply responses, exchange rate fluctuations, suppressed inflation, and an expansionary fiscal policy. They predicted that inflation would likely reach their target of 7 percent by the end of the fiscal year in March. However, investment in industrial capacity to address supply constraints in India has been hindered by slow decision-making in the government, while initiatives to improve the purchasing power of rural Indians have led to higher demand for foods like protein-rich products. Expectations of a possible reduction in the CRR by the Indian central bank led to a decrease in government bond yields and overnight indexed swap rates on Monday, prior to the release of the RBI's report. Out of 20 economists surveyed by Reuters, 7 predicted a CRR cut while none anticipated a decrease in interest rates. The 10-year benchmark bond yield closed 1 basis point lower at 8.17 percent, the one-year swap rate settled 8 bps lower at 7.93 percent, and the five-year rate dropped by 3 bps to 7.23 percent. However, some analysts believe that the central bank's review on Monday may have lessened the likelihood of a CRR cut on Tuesday. The RBI acknowledged the significant liquidity tightening since November but stated that they have managed liquidity stress through OMOs. This suggests that the RBI may prefer to continue infusing rupee liquidity through OMOs instead of immediately reducing the CRR, due to concerns about inflation. A senior trader at a foreign bank noted that Monday's statement seemed to rule out a CRR cut, which could have negative implications for bonds on Tuesday. Despite this, some still believe that a CRR cut on Tuesday is possible. The central bank stated that although open market operations have been its primary method for dealing with tight market liquidity, it is open to considering other measures if necessary. It emphasized the importance of ensuring that liquidity deficits remain at acceptable levels to support the smooth operation of other markets. The RBI also mentioned that it anticipates an improvement in growth in the upcoming fiscal year, but noted that slow recovery may persist due to weak investment and external demand. It attributed the weakened growth outlook to negative global and domestic factors.
| 1 |
He made the statement during an event in Dhaka on Sunday in light of the recent killings of two foreigners in the country, which were claimed by the radical group Islamic State. The president spoke at the opening ceremony of the 44th national council of Bangladesh Scouts, urging the scouts to instill patriotism and promote Bangladesh's tradition of communal harmony among young people. He emphasized the importance of rejecting zealotry, fundamentalism, extremism, and militancy in the country. Hamid, the chief scout, praised the organization for their efforts in responding to natural disasters and encouraged them to raise awareness about maintaining ecological balance to combat the effects of climate change. He also called for a social movement against drug addiction. The president awarded the Silver Tiger to nine scouts, Silver Hilsa to 17 scouts, President's Rover Scout to two scouts, and President's Scout to 122 scouts. The event was chaired by Bangladesh Scouts President Abul Kalam Azad, who is also the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office. The organization’s chief national commissioner, Home Secretary Md Mozammel Haque Khan, also delivered a speech during the program.
| 1 |
Six months following the US invasion, Esam Pasha, a 30-year-old Iraqi artist and writer, proudly created a mural titled "Resilience" over a large portrait of Saddam Hussein on a government building wall. Currently residing in the United States, Pasha is just one of many Iraqis who have left their homeland since the war, including doctors, businessmen, academics, and other skilled professionals. Pasha fondly reminisces about spending time at a gallery in Baghdad, sipping tea and chatting all day, and speaks of the vibrant life in Baghdad that he captured in his mural, which he referred to as the "ever-shining sun of Iraq." Pasha mentioned in a phone interview from Connecticut that he did not use any black paint in the mural, as he believed Baghdad had seen enough darkness. The mural, located on a wall of the Ministry of Labour, is currently inaccessible to the public due to security measures. Pasha expressed hope that one day Baghdad would be safe for public artworks that people could admire without fear, and he envisioned a future where other artists could contribute to making Baghdad beautiful and vibrant again. Without any security in place, nothing can be accomplished. Abu Mina, a ceramic artist and university professor, still visits the gallery that Pasha holds dear, but he notes that art sales have declined and he is contemplating relocating. He has not received payment from the university in a month, and most students are not attending class due to safety concerns. Abu Mina fears that only a few students will graduate this year, as the majority have not been showing up for class. The Higher Education Ministry reports that 185 university teachers have been killed, 52 kidnapped, and 41 wounded since April 2003. A recent bombing at a Baghdad university resulted in the deaths of at least 70 people, mostly students. Abu Mina's son, who is studying medicine, faces challenges such as infrequent classes and a shortage of professors. Many professors have relocated to Damascus for safety reasons. Accessing medical care, particularly from dentists or specialists, can be difficult and time-consuming, leading some to seek treatment abroad if they can afford it. Hospital emergency rooms dealing with a surge of casualties from bombings and shootings often do not have enough staff and are overwhelmed. A recent United Nations report highlighted a concerning increase in attacks on professionals such as teachers, doctors, artists, lawyers, ex-military officers, and journalists. These attacks are usually carried out by extremists with conformist ideologies or by militant/terror groups aiming to spread fear and intimidation. The report also mentioned a rise in Islamic extremism being connected to attacks on academics. Asam Rifaat, a 38-year-old criminal lawyer living in Baghdad's Mansour district, has made the decision to leave Iraq with his wife and two children because he feels he cannot continue living in Baghdad. "It has become a place where only the deceased reside, and I am not prepared for my children to be left parentless," he stated. He also expressed his inability to advocate for justice in a nation controlled by militias that operate with impunity, often collaborating with the police to carry out numerous killings each week. Rifaat emphasized the lawlessness of the situation, stating that they are essentially living in a lawless society. Before leaving his home, he always takes a moment to look at his children, Nora and Mahmoud, fearing that he may not return and could potentially be killed or abducted. In order to care for the children, his wife, a teacher of 35 years, has resigned from her job. Salim al-Taie, a 45-year-old former army officer living in Amriya in western Baghdad with his wife and three children aged five to 12, worries about his safety every time his friend Asam leaves for work. He becomes emotional when he hears urgent news about bombs on television, and doesn't stop crying until Asam comes home. Salim believes that the situation in Baghdad has deteriorated significantly over the last four years, with a lack of respect for the law being a major concern. He described life in Baghdad as similar to living in a city controlled by the mafia, where violence can strike at any moment. He shared the story of losing two friends to gunmen and how the ongoing blasts and sectarian violence have made him doubt his optimism. After deciding to stop sending his children to school and ultimately moving to Egypt, he explained that the tears of his daughters convinced him to leave Iraq for good in order to protect them from further harm. His priority is to ensure that his children never have to cry again, even if it means never returning to Iraq.
| 1 |
The initiative was started a decade ago and is set to continue until 2015. Although nations support the objectives of reducing worldwide poverty, wealthy countries facing challenges such as high unemployment and increasing debt prefer to shift the discussion towards achieving optimal outcomes from poverty alleviation efforts.
| 1 |
German Chancellor Angela Merkel successfully mediated a meeting in Hamburg two months before a German election, where she convinced fellow leaders to support a single communique covering trade, finance, energy, and Africa. However, there was a clear divide between President Trump and the other 19 members of the club, such as Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina. Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord was a point of contention, leading to Greenpeace activists protesting at the G20 summit in Hamburg. Merkel noted that the negotiations on climate revealed dissent, particularly against the United States. Greenpeace activists protested with a large statue of US President Donald Trump outside the Elbphilharmonie concert hall during the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on July 7, 2017. The summit was marked by difficult trade negotiations, with the US taking specific positions. The event brought together a mix of leaders during a time of significant global geopolitical change, with Trump's shift to a more unilateral approach causing unease among traditional allies in Europe and allowing China to play a larger role. Tensions between Washington and Beijing, particularly regarding North Korea and trade, were a major focus leading up to the meeting. Before their meeting in Hamburg, Trump had promised to improve relations with Russia, but these plans were derailed by accusations of Russian interference in the election and investigations into Trump's associates. However, after a two-hour meeting at the summit, Putin denied meddling and Trump seemed satisfied with his response. At the summit, Trump took a more friendly approach towards Putin, stating that it was an honor to meet him and expressing a desire to focus on future relations rather than past conflicts. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump had an important meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on July 7, 2017. Tillerson described the meeting as significant, noting the positive chemistry between Trump and Putin. Trump seemed satisfied with Putin's denials of poll meddling. The final communique acknowledged the US's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord, with the 19 other leaders declaring it irreversible. The US also stated its intention to work with other countries to access and use fossil fuels more cleanly and efficiently, a line that was contested by French President Emmanuel Macron. Thomas Bernes, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, stated that there is a clear consensus without the involvement of the United States. However, he pointed out that this could be problematic as the largest economy in the world plays a significant role. Jennifer Morgan, executive director at Greenpeace, commended the G19 for standing firm against Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The leaders also agreed to combat protectionism and unfair trade practices, while acknowledging the importance of legitimate trade defense mechanisms. The leaders also vowed to collaborate in promoting economic growth in Africa, which is a key initiative for Merkel. Merkel strategically chose to host the summit in Hamburg, her birthplace, to demonstrate Germany's global openness and acceptance of peaceful protests. The summit took place near the "Rote Flora," a former theatre seized by anti-capitalist squatters, a symbol of left-wing resistance in Germany. During the G20 summit in Hamburg on July 8, 2017, violent protests erupted, with radicals looting shops and setting fire to vehicles. Over 200 police officers were injured and approximately 143 individuals were arrested, with 122 being taken into custody. A demonstrator hurled a bottle at riot police during the G20 summit protests in Hamburg, Germany on July 8, 2017. Some of the most severe destruction took place while Merkel was entertaining other leaders at a concert and extravagant dinner at the Elbphilharmonie, a modern glass concert hall with views of the Elbe River. Merkel expressed her gratitude to the police and security forces following the summit and criticized the "unrestrained violence" exhibited by certain protesters. However, she faced challenging inquiries during her closing press conference regarding the decision to hold the summit in Hamburg.
| 1 |
Speaking at a discussion called "Leaders Dialogue: High Level Political Forum-From Vision to Action" at the UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of world leaders recognizing and addressing key issues with visionary leadership and commitment to achieve common goals for the well-being of our planet. She stressed the necessity of decisions that prioritize the welfare of all individuals and species to ensure a sustainable world for future generations. Bangladesh, she explained, must focus on economic, social, and environmental pillars of sustainable development, particularly in light of the country's vulnerability to climate change. The Prime Minister highlighted the impact of global warming on Bangladesh, citing projections of rising sea levels and massive displacement of population due to climate-related factors. Bangladesh is actively engaged in the Open Working Group for Sustainable Development and has submitted nationally agreed targets for the Post-2015 Development Agenda to the UN. She called on the Forum to consider the unique needs of Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in achieving sustainable development goals, as these countries are currently falling behind in meeting Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). She mentioned that in their experience, both expectations and commitments are crucial for sustainable development. Prime Minister Hasina highlighted Bangladesh's success in achieving some MDGs through efficient resource use, local leadership, indigenous capabilities, and innovations. She emphasized the importance of developed nations delivering on their pledge to provide 0.7 percent of GNP as Official Development Assistance and 0.2 percent of GNP as ODA for the LDCs, as well as transferring technologies to deprived groups. Hasina also noted that rapid advancements in science and technology are driving socioeconomic progress but also presenting challenges. She stated that the abundance of natural and technological resources presents the Forum with the opportunity to make the right choices in addressing the new challenges of our time.
| 1 |
The research will examine the financial benefits that Cambridge University may have gained from the slave trade, as well as investigate how academic studies may have perpetuated race-based beliefs from the 18th to the early 20th century. Estimates suggest that between 10 million and 28 million Africans were forcibly transported across the Atlantic from the 15th to the 19th centuries, with many perishing during the journey and those who survived facing a lifetime of servitude on plantations. Although Britain outlawed the trans-Atlantic slave trade in 1807, it took another generation before slavery was fully abolished. Martin Millett, who leads the advisory group overseeing the Cambridge study, stated that it is not clear what the investigation will uncover, but it is reasonable to believe that the University may have gained from the slave trade. Millett, who is a professor of archaeology, mentioned that like many other British institutions during the colonial era, Cambridge likely benefitted directly or indirectly from the practices of the time. He also highlighted the importance of examining how scholars at the University influenced public and political opinion regarding racial attitudes that are now considered unacceptable. The inquiry will be carried out by two full-time post-doctoral researchers at the Centre of African Studies. The study will investigate specific donations, inheritances, and historical ties to the slave trade. It is uncertain what steps Cambridge University will take if it discovers that it profited from or supported slavery. Many prestigious universities in the Western world have been evaluating their histories and the origins of their wealth. In the U.S., universities in the South have faced controversies over the Confederate flag. In 2017, Yale University changed the name of Calhoun College after protests argued that the school should not honor an alumnus who strongly supported slavery. Grace Hopper College is now named after the computer scientist. In the UK, Oxford University is facing a debate about removing a statue of colonialist Cecil Rhodes. Glasgow University has announced plans for reparative justice after uncovering financial gains from historical slavery. Cambridge's vice chancellor, Stephen Toope, believes it is important for universities to confront their past involvement in dark periods of history. However, critics argue that such investigations are driven by a contemporary trend of revisiting past injustices, often lack complexity, and, if applied broadly, would call into question nearly every aspect of the early history of these ancient establishments. Gill Evans, emeritus professor of medieval theology and intellectual history at Cambridge University, stated that due to the current "anti-colonialism" environment, universities now feel compelled to examine their historical connections with colonialism. According to Evans, it is important to understand the context of the time before assigning blame, as the actions of individuals in the past may not align with modern perspectives. Responsibility cannot simply be transferred from one era to another without some consideration of the nuances involved. Cambridge, one of the most ancient universities in the world, can trace its origins back over 800 years to 1209 when scholars from Oxford sought refuge in the city, which itself dates back to 1096.
| 1 |
Democrats are hoping to pass President Joe Biden's infrastructure plan, paid family and medical leave, and potentially expand health care, including Medicare. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Bernie Sanders expressed optimism that a new ruling from the parliamentarian could open up more opportunities for Democrats to advance their priorities in Congress. The parliamentarian's opinion allows for another round of reconciliation in the budget resolution, which could help Democrats pass important budgetary legislation despite Republican opposition. The process is full of challenges, such as strict rules limiting what can be included, and Democrats would still need to gather 50 votes for any proposal, which could be difficult for some of their more ambitious ideas. However, this newfound flexibility could make it easier for them to accomplish some of their biggest goals. This could involve breaking down some of Biden's proposals, like his infrastructure plan, into smaller, more manageable parts. Activists are also pushing Biden to consider using reconciliation for things like providing a pathway to citizenship for certain groups of immigrants. It is still unknown when and how Democrats will use this opportunity. However, there is increasing pressure for them to test the limits of what the ruling party can achieve with control of both congressional chambers and the White House. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York described the decision as a significant move that strengthens their position, but he did not reveal how it would affect their legislative plans moving forward, including the passage of President Biden's infrastructure proposal. Schumer mentioned that the caucus would need to discuss the best way to utilize this opportunity. The parliamentarian's initial guidance suggests that Biden and his allies in Congress may have another chance to use the reconciliation process before the fiscal year ends on Sept 30, as well as in the next fiscal year. Lawmakers will need to seek further advice from Elizabeth MacDonough on how to proceed. However, her decision has uplifted some activists who have been pushing for Biden and Democrats to take a more assertive approach in utilizing their power to push through significant policy changes. These activists are expected to ramp up the pressure on the White House and key Democrats in the weeks ahead to make use of this newly available tool. In the immediate future, Democrats see the ruling as potentially offering more leeway in passing Biden's ambitious $4 trillion economic investment plans, which include projects such as revamping electric grids, addressing climate change, alleviating poverty, and empowering women in the workforce. Since Biden's victory in the presidential election, his team has been focused on devising strategies to advance his agenda in Congress, which involves substantial government spending partially funded by tax increases on corporations and wealthy individuals. Following the Democratic victories in the Georgia Senate runoff elections in January, reconciliation has become a central element in many of these plans. Biden's aides considered using reconciliation as a way to overcome potential Republican opposition to pandemic aid and to advance his broader economic agenda. However, they have encountered challenges with this approach, as the Senate parliamentarian ruled against including a minimum wage increase in the relief package. There is uncertainty about whether legalizing unauthorized immigrants could be included in a reconciliation measure. Schumer and Sanders have not finalized a strategy for using reconciliation. Democrats are grappling with how to prioritize their legislative goals. The White House maintains that Biden is committed to seeking bipartisan support for his infrastructure plan. Business organizations are also interested in reaching a resolution on the matter, despite their and the Republicans' firm disapproval of Biden's suggested tax hikes. According to White House press secretary Jen Psaki, Biden still holds the belief that there is potential for a bipartisan agreement on the issue. However, she did not rule out the possibility of using the more partisan reconciliation process to pass the bill. Psaki stated that the decision on which mechanism to use will be left to Congress leaders. At the moment, the focus is on engaging with both Democrats and Republicans, as well as their staff and committee staff, following the announcement of the American Jobs Plan less than a week ago. Lobbyists and congressional staff members anticipate that Biden will give Senate moderates a brief opportunity to work towards a bipartisan agreement on the plan, with plans to move forward swiftly if no deal is reached. Psaki indicated that Biden is eager to see progress on Capitol Hill starting soon, aiming for advancements by May and a finalized package by the summer. Some administration officials acknowledge the challenges of passing Biden's agenda without using reconciliation, as any compromise would need to attract at least 10 Republican votes to overcome a Senate filibuster. A group of that size has already begun negotiations with Biden on his proposed $1.9 trillion economic aid package. The Republicans proposed $600 billion, but Democrats rejected it as not enough. Biden proceeded with his own plan and bypassed Republican resistance to pass a $1.9 trillion bill through reconciliation.
| 1 |
Climate talks began in Poland with calls for urgent action to combat global warming, despite the economic slowdown. There was a warning that failing to act could lead to water shortages for half the world by 2050. US President-elect Barack Obama was praised for his ambitious goals in fighting climate change. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of focusing on the environment regardless of economic conditions. The talks in Poznan are part of a two-year effort to reach a new climate treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol by the end of 2009. Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen emphasized that despite the financial crisis, it is crucial to address urgent issues like climate change. He will be hosting a meeting in Copenhagen in late 2009 to reach a UN agreement. Rajendra Pachauri, the head of the UN Climate Panel, warned that many people are still unaware of the potential irreversible consequences if action is not taken. He highlighted the increasing number of people facing water stress and the possibility of the Greenland icecap melting. Pachauri also expressed concern about the rising risk of extinction for various species of animals and plants. Yvo de Boer, the head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized the urgency of increasing efforts to reach a deal by the following year. He stressed that time is running out and work needs to intensify. The WWF distributed walnuts to delegates at the conference and encouraged them to find a solution to the climate crisis. Greenpeace revealed a large sculpture depicting the planet in danger from a wave of wood and coal. Rasmussen commended Obama's policies, highlighting the contrast with the previous administration led by President George W. Bush. He expressed his happiness about Obama's ambitious climate and energy policies as a way to address economic issues during the economic downturn. De Boer also praised Obama's ambitious policies on Sunday, noting that Obama aims to reduce US greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020. Currently, US emissions are around 14 percent higher than 1990 levels, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels in factories, power plants, and vehicles. In contrast, Bush's policies only anticipate a peak in emissions by 2025. In Europe, the recent economic downturn has raised concerns about the feasibility of the EU's target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020. Poland and Italy, both heavily reliant on coal for electricity, are spearheading efforts to negotiate concessions in a deal set to be finalized at a summit of EU leaders in Brussels on December 11-12.
| 1 |
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton emphasized the importance of seizing the opportunity presented by crises to rebuild economies in a more environmentally friendly and energy efficient manner during a speech in Brussels on Friday. She also criticized the use of energy as a political tool, particularly in light of Russia's recent threats to halt gas exports to the EU via Ukraine. Clinton urged young Europeans to view global economic turmoil as a chance to make positive changes in climate change and energy security. The United States, under President Barack Obama's leadership, is seen as a key ally in international climate talks, as the administration has shown a strong commitment to addressing climate change through renewable energy initiatives and a cap and trade system for CO2 emissions. However, with numerous countries facing a severe recession, there are doubts about whether businesses can gather the necessary funds to reduce carbon emissions, as stated by Clinton during her first trip to Europe as secretary of state. Many politicians believe that the economic crisis, energy security concerns, and climate change can all be addressed through a "New Green Deal," which would involve replacing high-carbon infrastructure with green alternatives and creating jobs. Clinton emphasized the importance of addressing both energy security and climate change simultaneously. She criticized the manipulation of energy as a political tactic, drawing parallels to concerns in Europe following conflicts between Russia and Ukraine affecting EU energy supplies. She expressed dismay at the use of energy for intimidation, stating it hinders the development of a more efficient energy system. Clinton is scheduled to have dinner with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Geneva in an effort to mend relations following strained ties during Bush's presidency. The recent reduction in Russian gas exports in January led to the shutdown of essential services in Eastern Europe, leaving many households without heating. A potential conflict between Ukraine and Russia was apparently avoided on Thursday when Gazprom, a state-owned company, announced that Ukraine had resolved the payment issue that had caused the dispute. However, European leaders were concerned about the threat of supply cuts from Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
| 1 |
Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou flew back to China from Canada on Friday after reaching a deal with US prosecutors to resolve the bank fraud case against her. This case had been a point of tension between China and the United States. Shortly after the agreement was announced, the two Canadians who were detained after Meng's arrest were released from Chinese prisons and were heading back to Canada. Beijing had denied any connection between their arrests and Meng's case. White House press secretary Jen Psaki stated that the White House was not involved in brokering a "prisoner swap" and that the deferred prosecution agreement with Meng was made independently by the Department of Justice. "This is a matter for law enforcement," she stated, clarifying that there is no connection between the two. However, Psaki also verified that during a call on September 9, two weeks prior to the announcements, Chinese leader Xi Jinping discussed Meng's case and US President Joe Biden pushed for the release of two Canadians, businessman Michael Spavor and former diplomat Michael Kovrig, who had been imprisoned in China for over 1,000 days. "These two leaders brought up the cases of these individuals, but there was no formal negotiation," Psaki explained. She also mentioned that she did not have any details on whether Biden was aware of the negotiations between Meng's lawyers and the Justice Department. Meng was detained at Vancouver International Airport in Canada on a US warrant and was charged with bank and wire fraud for allegedly deceiving HSBC in 2013 about the telecommunications equipment company's business dealings in Iran. The extradition saga that lasted for years was a major point of contention in the strained relationship between Beijing and Washington. Chinese officials had suggested that dropping the case could help improve diplomatic relations. Psaki clarified that the recent announcement does not mean the US is softening its stance on China. She stated that the US policy towards China remains the same, emphasizing that the relationship is based on competition and holding China accountable for its unfair economic practices, coercive actions, and human rights violations. In September, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Biden's climate envoy John Kerry that the United States needed to take practical steps to improve relations by responding to a list of demands, which included dropping the case against Meng. Wang stated that the United States now had the responsibility to make a move. Despite this, US officials have denied that Kerry or other administration officials had negotiated Meng's release with China for other concessions. Earlier in the week, Xi announced at the United Nations that China would not build new coal-fired power projects abroad, a commitment Kerry had been pushing for to help achieve the goals of the Paris climate agreement. A White House official clarified that the United States was not involved in China's internal decision-making process regarding this matter. An official stated that China's recent actions regarding coal were purely self-serving, as they realized they were not gaining any leverage by holding onto it. Meng received a warm welcome in China, with their official media suggesting her release could improve US-China relations. Some Republican senators criticized the Biden administration for giving in to Beijing's demands, but analysts disagreed with their assessment. Bonnie Glaser, an expert on Asia at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, believes that the deal made by the People's Republic of China to secure the release of Meng was already being discussed during the Trump administration. She notes that Meng had to admit to wrongdoing, which she eventually did. Glaser does not view this as a form of capitulation. The Justice Department is still getting ready for a trial against Huawei.
| 1 |
The Edelman Trust Barometer, a survey that has been conducted for twenty years to gauge trust in governments, media, business, and NGOs, has revealed increasing trust in autocratic states such as China. Despite concerns about its commitment to social fairness, the business sector has maintained strong levels of trust globally, attributed to its efforts in developing vaccines and adapting to changes in the workplace and retail practices. Richard Edelman, of the Edelman communications group which published the survey based on interviews with over 36,000 respondents in 28 countries between Nov 1-24 of the previous year, noted a decline in trust in democracies. He emphasized the importance of economic confidence, with high levels of concern about job losses due to the pandemic or automation. In the past year, public trust in institutions has decreased in several countries such as Germany, Australia, the Netherlands, South Korea, and the United States. However, trust in institutions in China, the United Arab Emirates, and Thailand has increased. Despite the trillions of dollars spent by wealthy nations to support their economies during the pandemic, there is still a lack of lasting confidence. In Japan, only a small percentage of people believe they will be better off in the future, while in China and India, a majority are optimistic about their economic prospects. Edelman stated that the higher levels of public trust in China are not just based on economic beliefs but also on a sense of predictability in Chinese policy, especially during the pandemic. He mentioned that there is a consistency between actions and words in China, which has resulted in better control of COVID compared to the US. The latest Edelman survey reflects previous findings of growing dissatisfaction with capitalism, political leaders, and the media. Concerns about "fake news" have reached record highs, with 75% of respondents globally worried about its use as a weapon. Climate change has become a significant concern among society, now ranking just below unemployment. Business leaders are feeling pressure to align their actions with their beliefs and values, with many making decisions based on this. However, a sizable portion believe that businesses need to do more to address climate change, economic inequality, and workforce reskilling.
| 1 |
Johnson had hoped to use the conference this week to move past over 18 months of dealing with COVID-19 and focus on his promises from the 2019 election to address regional inequality, crime, and social care. However, the prime minister is now facing challenges more than nine months after Britain's exit from the European Union, which he believed would give the country more economic freedom. Instead, he is dealing with issues such as fuel shortages, concerns about Christmas supplies, and gas companies struggling with rising wholesale prices. In a statement before the conference in Manchester, Johnson did not mention these current problems, but instead emphasized his government's accomplishments in addressing the public's priorities, stating that the country did not endure COVID-19 to return to the way things were before the pandemic. The concept of Build Back Better involves making changes and improvements as we recover, focusing on priorities such as social care, job support, climate change, crime prevention, and leveling up. The government claims to have done everything possible to support businesses during the pandemic and protect jobs, while successfully implementing a mass vaccination program. However, critics argue that this narrative ignores early missteps in handling the pandemic, such as hesitating to implement lockdown measures. Some lawmakers, particularly from regions traditionally aligned with the opposition Labour Party, may criticize the government's decision to withdraw a top-up to a state benefit for low-income households and end a COVID jobs support scheme.
| 1 |
The United States and France, whose relationship became strained during the Iraq war, emphasized their strong ties during US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's visit to Paris, her first since Nicolas Sarkozy became president. Sarkozy, a known supporter of the US, hopes Rice's extended stay in Paris will signal a new chapter in US-French relations, which were strained by former French president Jacques Chirac's opposition to the Iraq war in 2003. Rice's visit was timed to coincide with a meeting convened by Sarkozy on Darfur, where the US felt the previous French government had not done enough to address the genocide in the region. During her visit, Rice held discussions with Sarkozy, as well as the French foreign and defense ministers, on various global issues such as Iran, Iraq, the Middle East, and Kosovo. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner expressed the importance of collaboration between the two countries for a stronger relationship. "We had the opportunity to see how closely we align on many current events topics, although we did not always agree. It is important to speak openly among friends," he stated. Rice also expressed her congratulations to Sarkozy on his election win and praised Kouchner for his work with Medecins Sans Frontieres, calling it one of the best organizations ever established." Analysts noted that despite the friendly relationship between the two countries, there are still several areas of disagreement, such as French concerns about NATO expansion, U.S. plans for a missile defense system in Europe, and U.S. support for Israel. Dominique Moisi, a senior counselor at the French Institute of International Relations, stated that while there is a new atmosphere of confidence, it is more about style than substance. He also mentioned that there is a perception in the United States of a new France as a strong ally, but in France, the view of the Bush administration remains unchanged. "To confirm the change in atmosphere, it is suggested to wait for a new president in Washington, preferably from the Democratic party." Despite this, US and French officials were seen being warm in their public interactions. Kouchner kissed Rice on both cheeks at the end of their news conference, providing a visual representation of France and the United States reconciling after the Iraq war, a process that had already begun years ago. The French foreign minister was delighted when Rice acknowledged French support for the American revolution, acknowledging that without their help, there might not have been a United States of America.
| 1 |
Viktor Yanukovich of Ukraine was inaugurated as president on Thursday and immediately promised to combat corruption and poverty, as well as restore political stability to regain foreign support for the struggling economy. Despite a disputed election and deep divisions in the country, Yanukovich's swearing-in ceremony marked a significant comeback from the 2004 Orange Revolution, where mass protests overturned a rigged election in his favor. Addressing officials, lawmakers, and foreign dignitaries, Yanukovich acknowledged the country's massive debts, poverty, corruption, and economic collapse, and emphasized the need for an innovative strategy to move Ukraine forward. He mentioned that the lack of foreign investment in Ukraine, a country with a population of 46 million and a volatile business environment, was a concern. He stated that his goal was to bring back political stability, eliminate corruption, and establish clear regulations for the relationship between the government and businesses. These steps were seen as crucial for attracting investors and building trust with international financial institutions. Ukraine's economy has suffered from the global economic downturn, particularly affecting its steel and chemical exports and causing the hryvnia to lose half of its value against the dollar in the past year and a half. The country relies on a $16.4 billion IMF bailout program, which was paused last year and is expected to resume once stability is restored. The finance ministry announced that an IMF technical team would be visiting on April 7th. This often results in a detailed visit from IMF officials who will then determine whether to resume the program. Yanukovich, a strong former mechanic with support from wealthy industrialists, had a difficult upbringing in eastern Ukraine and has a history of minor criminal offenses. He is expected to mend relations with Russia, Ukraine's former Soviet ruler, after a period of estrangement during Viktor Yushchenko's pro-Western leadership. Yanukovich has suggested potential compromises with Moscow regarding the future of Russia's Black Sea fleet in Crimea and has proposed a partnership with Russia to manage Ukraine's gas pipelines. However, he aims to renegotiate a decade-old gas supply agreement between Ukraine and Russia that was negotiated by Tymoshenko and Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. He also plans to have a balanced foreign policy and is committed to strengthening relationships with the European Union. In his recent speech, he stated that his foreign policy will focus on having equal and mutually beneficial relationships with Russia, the EU, and the United States to benefit Ukraine. He confirmed on his website that he will be visiting Brussels next week and also intends to visit Moscow in early March. Yanukovich defeated Prime Minister Tymoshenko by 3.5 percentage points but only garnered the support of one-third of the 37 million voters. The voting results showed a clear division between Russian-speaking voters in the eastern and southern regions who supported Yanukovich, and Ukrainian-speaking voters in the western and central areas who voted for Tymoshenko. Tymoshenko decided to withdraw her legal challenge to Yanukovich's election last Saturday, but she still believes he was not legitimately elected. She, along with most of her parliamentary bloc, did not attend the ceremony on Thursday, making it seem insincere. Despite Yanukovich's call for a capable executive power, Tymoshenko is still fighting against efforts to remove her as prime minister, indicating ongoing political tension in the short-term. She is working to unite her allies in parliament, while his party and its influential supporters are trying to break up her coalition and form a new one. Creating a coalition involves difficult negotiations and may take a long time. If Yanukovich is unable to form a new coalition, he will have to reluctantly organize new parliamentary elections, leading to more uncertainty.
| 1 |
German authorities conducted raids in six northern German states on Wednesday due to concerns that left-wing radicals were planning attacks to disrupt the upcoming G8 summit in Heiligendamm. The federal prosecutor's office stated that around 900 security officials searched 40 sites in Berlin, Brandenburg, Hamburg, Bremen, Schleswig-Holstein, and Lower Saxony. The office suspects members of the militant extreme-left scene of forming a terrorist organization or being part of one, with plans to carry out arson attacks and other actions to disrupt or prevent the summit. German security officials believe the group was responsible for several attacks in Hamburg and Berlin over the past two years, including a well-known incident where a car in front of the deputy finance minister's home was set on fire. Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble cautioned earlier this year about the possibility of left-wing extremists carrying out attacks during Germany's presidency of the Group of Eight (G8) club of industrialised nations. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is set to host the leaders of Britain, Canada, France, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States at the Heiligendamm summit, where discussions are expected to revolve around climate change, global economic coordination, and other significant foreign policy issues. Since the Red Army Faction (RAF) disbanded in 1998 after a violent two-decade campaign of killings and kidnappings, Germany has not seen any major instances of left-wing violence.
| 1 |
Without changing the Constitution of Canada, Charles is set to become the country's head of state after Queen Elizabeth II, following the tradition of British monarchs since the country's inception. Despite the widespread respect for the queen among Canadians, polls indicate a decreasing number of citizens are willing to pledge allegiance to another British monarch, particularly Charles, who is unpopular and represents an institution seen as increasingly irrelevant. The future of King Charles III's rule in Canada remains uncertain, with both sides of the debate currently in a stalemate according to Philippe Lagassé, an expert on the monarchy's role in Canada from Carleton University. The monarchists continue to uphold the formal legal status and enjoy occasional royal visits and symbolic gestures. However, the Republicans argue that the monarchical principle doesn't play a significant role in Canadian society. Charles and Camilla's visit to Canada, which includes events with an Indigenous theme in light of recent discoveries at residential schools, will include stops in Newfoundland, Yellowknife, and Ottawa. The trip will also involve discussions on climate change and visits to areas affected by it. It is uncertain whether handshaking, which has traditionally been a key part of Royal Tours, will be replaced with a safer form of greeting due to COVID-19. A recent poll by the Angus Reid Institute showed that a majority of Canadians believe the monarchy is becoming irrelevant, with 67% opposing the idea of Charles becoming king after his mother. Charles was once greeted by large crowds during visits to Canada with his first wife Diana, but interest in him waned after their separation in 1992. His condescending attitude is not well-received in a nation that values equality. The connection between Charles' brother Andrew and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, who committed suicide in a New York jail, has further diminished support for the monarchy in Canada. The reputation of the royal family was also tarnished after Meghan Markle, Charles' daughter-in-law who resided in Toronto and British Columbia, revealed in an interview that she had experienced racially insensitive remarks from members of the royal family. However, Charles and Camilla are expected to attract crowds, especially in St John's, Newfoundland, where their visit will be a major topic of discussion. The perception of the royals varies depending on the region. Historically, the monarchy has not had significant backing in predominantly French-speaking Quebec, the second most populous province in Canada. Canada's shifting demographics have played a role in spreading anti-monarchy sentiments. Many immigrants in Canada originate from countries like China, with no ties to the British monarchy, or from countries like India where the crown is seen as a symbol of oppression. According to Shachi Kurl, president of Angus Reid, there may come a point when Canadians question the presence of the monarchy on their currency. Kurl attributes the remaining support for the monarchy to respect for the queen, but predicts that it will decline further after her passing. She stated that the lack of motivation to make a change is largely due to a genuine affection for the queen. Barbados recently removed the queen as its head of state and transitioned to a republic in a ceremony attended by Prince Charles and Rihanna. Other Caribbean nations may also consider making the same change. Prince Edward and Prince William both faced protests during their separate tours of the Caribbean this year due to objections to the monarchy and Britain's history of slavery. As a result, some stops on their tours had to be canceled. Instead of being concerned about potential protests, the organizers of Charles' visit to Canada have focused on ensuring that he has an audience. Besides a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Ottawa, there are limited opportunities for large crowds to gather in major cities. Instead, he will be visiting Quidi Vidi, a neighborhood and fishing village in St John's, a city with a population of 114,000 people, where any appearance by an international celebrity is sure to be a significant event. Changing Canada's Constitution to remove the British monarch as head of state is a challenging process, requiring unanimous consent from the federal government and all 10 provinces, according to Lagassé and Kurl. In a country where politics are heavily influenced by regionalism, gaining approval for constitutional changes may be extremely challenging. According to Kurl, most politicians view any discussion of constitutional change as something to be avoided at all costs, preferring to ignore the issue altogether. Lagassé suggested that one potential solution could be to speed up the ongoing process of reducing the monarch's role in Canada. He noted that since 1947, the Queen's largely symbolic powers have been delegated to the governor-general, her official representative in Canada. Lagassé also mentioned that there are several measures that the Canadian government can implement without the need for legislation or constitutional amendments. The queen used to be featured on all of Canada's bank notes, but there is no legal issue with removing her from the last remaining one, the 20 dollar bill, according to experts. It is also not necessary to have the monarch's portrait in government offices or mandate royal tours. According to Lagassé, there are many aspects of monarchical symbolism that can be changed in Canada, but the general approach is that the monarchy is still intact. Do not engage with it, but also do not allow it to take up more space than necessary. © 2022 The New York Times Company.
| 1 |
The activist group Egality is encouraging British voters to give their right to vote to individuals in developing countries affected by UK policies on war, climate, and poverty. Britons can register on www.giveyourvote.org to donate their votes to Afghans, Bangladeshis, or Ghanaians. On the eve of the election, they will receive a text message indicating who wants to vote for which party. Many Britons, including student Fanny Rhodes-James, 23, see this as an exciting way for their vote to make a difference globally. Egality expects thousands to register, as turnout in Britain's last two general elections was low compared to previous years. Egality stated that when we criticize our political parties for being too similar and claim that voting is ineffective, we overlook the important perspective of vulnerable people in developing countries. These individuals can have their lives drastically impacted by decisions made in British government offices, known as Whitehall. Kwabena Okai Ofosuhene from Ghana believes that having a say in British elections is crucial due to Britain's influence on international financial institutions, like the World Bank, which play a significant role in Ghana's development. He also highlighted the UK's status as one of the world's top economies and a key trading partner for Ghana. Ofosuhene, who works for an NGO, also emphasized the importance of Britain's political power. He stated that America would not have taken action in Iraq or Afghanistan without the support of the UK. Britain is a major contributor of development and humanitarian aid, having donated 5.5 billion pounds ($8.34 billion) between 2008 and 2009. Egality allows potential voters in these countries to submit questions for British politicians, and British volunteers can relay these questions to their local representatives through debates or media channels. The campaign coordinator, May Abdalla, likened Egality's efforts to a UK election campaign, similar to the work of the Electoral Commission. A spokesperson for the Electoral Commission noted that as long as votes were not being paid for, the Egality campaign was not illegal, and expressed that they were not familiar with a campaign of this nature before.
| 1 |
President-elect Barack Obama will be focusing on selecting his White House Cabinet in the areas of energy, the environment, trade, and agriculture next week. He has already assembled his economic and national security team but has emphasized that climate change policy will also be a top priority. His transition team has not revealed any names being considered for these positions. Obama will hold a news conference on Sunday to commemorate the anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and discuss the contributions of those who have served the nation. He will also appear on a television news program to potentially discuss future appointments. Kansas Governor Kathleen Sebelius, a key supporter of Obama's campaign, is being considered for a role in the administration, potentially as the energy or agriculture secretary. A spokesperson for Sebelius stated that she is grateful for the consideration and willing to support the Obama administration in any way she can. The Democratic governor, who was previously considered for the vice presidential nomination, has been a strong advocate for renewable energy in Kansas, aiming for 20 percent of the state's energy to come from wind by 2020. Obama's goal is to increase the use of renewable energy sources in the U.S. to reduce reliance on foreign oil suppliers. Industry sources have identified potential candidates for the positions of energy secretary and climate "czar" in Obama's administration. Dan Reicher, climate director at Google.org and former Energy Department official, as well as John Podesta, co-chair of Obama's transition team, are being considered. Carol Browner, leader of Obama's energy and environment task force, is a top contender for the climate chief position. A decision is expected soon, but vetting for these positions is still ongoing. Obama officials are determining how a climate official in the White House would impact other policy players. Potential candidates for the position of EPA administrator include Lisa Jackson, who previously served as commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection in New Jersey, and Mary Nichols, who was an assistant administrator for the EPA during the Clinton administration. In terms of trade, President Obama recently met with California Democratic Rep. Xavier Becerra to discuss the possibility of him becoming chief trade negotiator. Becerra, known for his cautious approach to international trade agreements, would be the first Hispanic to hold this position. Other potential candidates for the role of agriculture secretary include two Democrats from the US House of Representatives, John Salazar of Colorado and Sanford Bishop of Georgia, as well as Sebelius, according to anonymous sources. Vice President-elect Joe Biden has selected Jared Bernstein to serve as his chief economist and economic policy adviser. Bernstein held the position of deputy chief economist for the Department of Labor from 1995 to 1996.
| 1 |
The head of the UN climate change secretariat expressed confidence that a new global deal on climate change would be reached at a meeting in Copenhagen next year, despite disagreements at talks this week. He stated that he believed a deal would ultimately be made, following calls for action on climate change from the European Union and environmentalists at recent talks in Bonn. The Copenhagen meeting is aimed at agreeing on a new treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions after the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012. De Boer emphasized that public awareness of the consequences of inaction on global warming would urge governments to take action, especially after the agreement made at the Bali summit last year. He mentioned that he believes there is an expectation for a solid agreement to come out of the Copenhagen conference, similar to how negotiations were initiated at the Bali conference. He emphasized the need for the new pact to be concise and centered around key issues that require international cooperation. He expressed his hope that unnecessary elements will not be added to the agreement. Earlier, De Boer spoke to reporters and mentioned that the United States had been unable to take concrete action due to the presidential election. He expressed confidence that all the major candidates in the race were aware of the necessity for action. De Boer chose not to criticize the U.S. position, stating that Washington had acted responsibly by not making commitments that could bind a future administration. He expressed hope for progress in the coming year.
| 1 |
US Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke are visiting China this week in an effort to persuade the country to work together with the United States to address global warming. The two Chinese-American officials will meet with senior Chinese leaders in Beijing to discuss the benefits of collaborating to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This visit is seen as a precursor to President Barack Obama's upcoming trip to China, which many environmental experts hope will focus on the importance of joint US-China action before the global climate treaty meeting in Copenhagen in December. Cooperation between the two countries is seen as essential for the success of efforts to reach a new global climate agreement. According to Kenneth Lieberthal, a visiting fellow at the Brookings Institute, the potential for collaboration is significant and the need for action is urgent. "It's not a situation where one party benefits while the other pays. China has now become the world's largest emitter of carbon dioxide and other gases that contribute to global warming, surpassing the United States. However, its per capita emissions are still lower. Chu, a Nobel physicist with a focus on climate change, is expected to advocate for joint US and Chinese efforts to address rising global temperatures in a speech at Tsinghua University in Beijing. He emphasized the urgent threat that climate change poses to our way of life, comparing it to a climatic shift as significant as the last Ice Age but in the opposite direction. Locke, a former governor of Washington, is keen to highlight opportunities for China to reduce emissions through the use of US renewable technologies like solar, wind, and water power." A Commerce Department official stated that there are significant market opportunities for companies in China due to a high demand, but also challenges. China heavily relies on coal for its energy needs, while the United States has large coal reserves and uses it for a smaller percentage of its energy needs. Both countries have an incentive to work together on developing technologies to capture carbon dioxide emissions and store them underground, rather than releasing them into the atmosphere. David Sandalow, assistant energy secretary, highlighted this as a top priority in an interview with Reuters before a trip to China. "We are of the belief that we can achieve more by collaborating rather than working independently." The United States is paying attention to China's efforts in building new nuclear power plants. President Obama is urging Congress to pass a bill to reduce US greenhouse gas emissions, with the hope that China will agree to cap emissions at the December meeting in Copenhagen. Without China's commitment, it is unlikely that a new climate change treaty will be approved by the US Senate. Stuart Eizenstat, the lead US negotiator for the Kyoto climate treaty in 1997, which was never ratified by the US, emphasized the importance of China's cooperation. While Chu and Locke are not heading to Beijing for talks on a bilateral climate agreement, the US is hopeful that closer collaboration with China will lead to a positive outcome in Copenhagen, according to Sandalow. China, along with 16 other major world economies, recently agreed to limit the global temperature increase to 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels. However, China has chosen not to establish a short-term emission reduction target, citing its recent industrialization and the need to prioritize growth and urbanization efforts for its population, which mostly lives in poorer conditions compared to Western countries. Despite this, China's latest five-year plan aims to reduce energy intensity by 20 percent by the end of 2010 and set a goal of having renewable energy account for 15 percent of total energy demand by 2020. The Obama administration needs to urge Beijing to turn these goals into enforceable global agreements as a starting point, according to Eizenstat. He also mentioned that China will eventually need to commit to emission limits, but it is unlikely to happen at the upcoming meeting in Copenhagen this December.
| 1 |
Speaking at a seminar titled "Bangladesh in 2017 Davos: Some Reflections", Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali mentioned that Professor Klaus Schwab had written a letter four days prior. He stated that Hasina was the first elected leader of Bangladesh to be invited to the prestigious forum, which took place from January 17 to January 20. Ali emphasized that this invitation was a recognition of the Prime Minister's visionary leadership and her efforts to lead Bangladesh towards stability, development, and prosperity through her 'Vision 2021'. He added that Prof Schwab's letter further validated this recognition. The annual WEF meeting in Switzerland is known as a key platform for world leaders to engage in collaborative activities and shape global, regional, and industrial agendas at the start of each year. Leaders and innovators will be sharing their insights on how to navigate the future at the Forum. Newly elected UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres will also be in attendance. Hasina participated in six sessions discussing water, climate change, sustainable development, and the digital economy, where she highlighted the progress made in Bangladesh. She also shared her views on future growth, including both opportunities and challenges. The foreign minister noted that Hasina's perspectives, representing the developing world, helped other panelists understand the complexities of the challenges ahead. During the seminar organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) in Dhaka, Ali highlighted the challenges and limitations faced by developing countries, emphasizing the importance of considering potential solutions. He acknowledged that some may argue that the discussions in Davos may not directly apply to their situation or offer concrete solutions, but he believed that the insights provided valuable perspectives on the potential scenarios that could arise as they strive to advance to the next level. MCCI President Barrister Nihad Kabir was also in attendance at the seminar.
| 1 |
Stone told Reuters that he initially did not want to do the film and was not seeking trouble. However, after meeting with Snowden in Russia, the 70-year-old director, known for movies like "JFK", "Natural Born Killers", and "Wall Street", changed his mind. He was concerned that the film might be boring, but ultimately saw it as a dramatic thriller rather than a documentary. "Snowden", which is now in theaters, follows Snowden's transformation from a conservative CIA agent to a disillusioned NSA operative who ultimately exposed the government's mass surveillance programs in 2013. He currently resides in Russia and is being sought by the US government for espionage. Amnesty International, along with two other organizations, have initiated a campaign to seek a pardon for him. Stone and Snowden had multiple meetings in Russia where they agreed that the film would be a dramatization. However, the film's progress was halted when Stone sought financing from studios, although the director did not disclose which studios he had approached. "We are living in a climate where self-censorship is prevalent," Stone stated. He believes that the NSA did not directly tell anyone not to make the film. Instead, there is a pressure to conform or be excluded. Open Road Films, a collaboration between Regal Entertainment Group and AMC Entertainment, decided to co-finance "Snowden", which was made for around $40 million, after others declined. The movie, which stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt as Snowden and Shailene Woodley as his girlfriend Lindsay Mills, was primarily filmed in Europe, with Germany offering production incentives and serving as a substitute for Maryland, where Snowden was raised. However, there were challenges in making a film about computer programming and programmers engaging for viewers. Director Stone mentioned the lack of violence, chases, and guns in the story, explaining the need to truly grasp the world of the characters and make it captivating. Despite this, Stone did film important scenes in Washington DC and Hawaii, and had Gordon-Levitt and Woodley perform a date scene in front of the White House. The director jokingly suggested that if one is going to take a risk in the US, they might as well go all out.
| 1 |
Australia's government is close to finalizing an agreement for its carbon trade scheme after months of deadlock, with the opposition expressing confidence in reaching a deal by early next week. The government aims to start carbon trading in July 2011, covering 75 percent of emissions, potentially creating the second domestic trading platform outside of Europe. However, the laws governing the scheme have faced obstacles in parliament due to strong opposition from rival lawmakers. To secure the necessary votes, the government has been negotiating changes with the main opposition bloc. Opposition negotiator Ian Macfarlane believes his side will now support a deal. Macfarlane expressed confidence that a satisfactory outcome will be reached that he can present to the party room for consideration. He remains optimistic that the party room will support the outcome. Negotiations on the laws, which were brought before the Senate on Tuesday, will persist throughout the week and into the upcoming weekend. The opposition is expected to vote early next week on whether to back or oppose the laws. The government has already agreed to a major opposition request to permanently exempt agriculture, which contributes to approximately 16 percent of Australian emissions, but the opposition is also seeking further concessions for coal miners. The Senate rejected the carbon trade bills in August and may result in an early election if they are rejected again this month. Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is pushing for the 11 bills to be passed before the global climate talks in Copenhagen in December. The Senate is set to adjourn on Nov. 26, but Rudd is open to extending the sitting if necessary. The opposition Liberal and National party coalition is split on climate policy, with opposition leader Malcolm Turnbull guaranteeing his lawmakers the opportunity to approve or reject any deal with the government. Disagreements within the coalition were evident during a closed-door meeting on Tuesday when 10 lawmakers suggested voting against the scheme regardless of negotiated amendments. However, more than 10 lawmakers expressed support for Turnbull's policy of negotiating changes, according to a party spokesman. Turnbull, who is trailing in opinion polls, is seeking a deal to avoid an early election. The government is currently seven seats short of a majority in the Senate. Junior Climate Minister Greg Combet stated on Tuesday that opposition divisions pose the biggest threat to the carbon trade scheme, which is a key aspect of Rudd's strategy to combat global warming. Combet noted that the coalition is divided, with the Nationals pursuing their own agenda and the Liberal and National parties at odds over climate change. The carbon debate in Australia is being closely observed internationally, especially in the United States and New Zealand, where lawmakers are discussing their own proposals for emissions trading. To learn more about the risks and opportunities related to carbon in Australasia, visit Carbon Central - Australia's Climate Change Hub, which features leading climate change experts and solution providers. For more news and analysis on global carbon markets, sign up for the free Carbon Interactive newsletter.
| 1 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed disappointment at the lack of progress at a 190-nation conference in Bali, where delegates were deadlocked over a plan to start talks on a new UN treaty. Ban made an 11th hour appeal for delegates to make compromises, particularly regarding developing nations' demands for more assistance from wealthy countries to combat climate change. If the deadlock is resolved, the conference would kick off two years of negotiations on a comprehensive new global treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol after 2012, involving the US and all developing countries. Ban urged delegates to deliver a successful outcome for the world's people. Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono also urged delegates, emphasizing the importance of having a clear road map to reach their envisioned destination. He expressed concern that the project could fail if the wording is not right, stressing that the world is closely observing and pleading with them not to disappoint.
| 1 |
Britain's new Prime Minister Gordon Brown will downplay any suggestion of strained US-British relations in his upcoming meeting with President George W Bush. Despite recent speeches by his ministers fueling speculation of a shift in foreign policy, Brown insists that the UK's bond with the US remains strong. While Brown and Bush will emphasize their countries' special relationship at Camp David, it is unlikely that Brown will develop the same close rapport with Bush as his predecessor, Tony Blair. According to Strathclyde University politics professor John Curtice, the focus will be on maintaining a professional working relationship rather than building personal chemistry. According to Brown's spokesman, the issues to be discussed will include global trade liberalization talks, climate change, as well as Darfur, Iraq, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Russia, and Iran. Brown has stated that Britain will fulfill its United Nations' obligations in Iraq and will not immediately withdraw British troops, despite some pressure from the ruling Labour Party. The head of the British military suggested that Britain may be able to hand over control of Basra to Iraqi forces by the end of the year. Regarding Iran, Brown mentioned the possibility of military action but believed that sanctions could still persuade Tehran to abandon its nuclear program. The strong personal bond between Bush and Blair was solidified in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks and their decision to go to war in Iraq. The ongoing violence in Iraq was a major factor in Blair's resignation as prime minister, as it caused backlash from voters and his own party. This led to his early departure and handover of power to finance minister Brown. Brown, who has been seen as distancing himself from Blair's close relationship with Bush, has managed to boost the ruling party's popularity and is now leading in opinion polls. Despite raising eyebrows by meeting with European leaders before meeting with Bush, Brown has shown skepticism towards the European Union in the past. Discussion about a change in British foreign policy started when Brown appointed David Miliband as foreign secretary, who was reportedly doubtful about the Iraq war. Brown also appointed Mark Malloch Brown, a former UN deputy secretary general who has criticized Britain and the United States over the war, to a junior position. Malloch Brown recently stated that Brown and Bush are unlikely to have the same close relationship as Blair and Bush did, and another minister emphasized the importance of alliances over military strength in a speech to a Washington audience.
| 1 |
Yvo de Boer, the executive secretary of the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change, stated that the Kyoto Protocol is essential and will continue to exist following the climate conference in Copenhagen. De Boer emphasized the importance of the Kyoto Protocol surviving for various reasons and discussed the possibility of a second period under Kyoto and a new treaty under the convention. He mentioned that the new treaty would come into effect once a sufficient number of countries have ratified it. He stated that it took eight years for the Kyoto Protocol to come into effect, starting in 1997 when countries began signing it and finally being enforced in 2005. While some countries prefer a single treaty, the majority involved in the process are seeking a two-track outcome and want to see something in addition to the Kyoto Protocol. De Boer noted that the Kyoto Protocol already has functioning market-based mechanisms, but there are currently no provisions under the Convention for these mechanisms. If someone is interested in promoting a new treaty, there is another obstacle that individuals are not willing to recognize. According to him, the Kyoto Protocol is the sole enforceable document regarding climate change, and there is no valid rationale for discontinuing it. De Boer mentioned that considerable advancements have been achieved in certain key components that will form an agreement. It is now the opportune moment to concentrate on the broader perspective. Bangladesh previously advocated for a more robust climate agreement by extending the Kyoto Protocol that concludes in 2012. It also suggested implementing a new phase with fresh objectives for the Kyoto protocol. The Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) has also urged for a new agreement, known as the 'Copenhagen Protocol', to be developed using the legally-binding principles of the Kyoto Protocol.
| 1 |
The White House confirmed that US President Barack Obama will proceed with his plans to meet the Dalai Lama, despite warnings from China not to do so. China has expressed anger over the meeting, stating that it will further strain the already troubled relationship between the two countries. Beijing has urged Obama not to meet with the exiled Tibetan leader, whom they view as a separatist. Ma stated that during Hu's meeting with Obama in Beijing last November, the Chinese leader emphasized China's strong opposition to any government officials meeting with the Dalai Lama. Ma urged the U.S. to understand the sensitivity of Tibetan issues and handle related matters cautiously to prevent further harm to China-U.S. relations. China's anger at the White House announcement was expected, as was the White House's confirmation of the meeting, which had been anticipated. This tension occurred shortly after Beijing criticized Washington for a $6.4 billion U.S. weapons package for Taiwan, a self-governing island that China considers a renegade province, and amid other disputes between the two countries over the value of China's currency, trade practices, and internet freedom. Beijing has become more forceful in opposing the Dalai Lama's meetings with foreign leaders, which has become a controversial issue among patriotic Chinese who view Western criticism of Chinese policy in Tibet as interference. Protests against Chinese rule in Tibet during the 2008 Beijing Olympics torch relay in London and Paris led to angry counter-protests by Chinese abroad and demonstrations in China calling for boycotts of French products. When French President Nicolas Sarkozy refused to cancel a meeting with the Dalai Lama during France's presidency of the European Union in late 2008, China cancelled a summit with the EU and Chinese citizens called for boycotts of French goods. A Chinese Communist Party official recently warned that any meeting between Obama and the Dalai Lama would greatly harm Sino-U.S. relations. The Dalai Lama fled Tibet in 1959 following an unsuccessful uprising against Chinese Communist Party forces who had entered the region in 1950. He wants Tibet to have genuine autonomy while still being under Chinese control, but Beijing believes that his demands are actually for complete independence. Previous US presidents, such as George W. Bush before Obama, have met with the Dalai Lama despite Beijing's disapproval, without facing any significant consequences. China's recent statement did not mention any specific actions they would take in response to Obama's planned meeting with the Dalai Lama. The spokesman for the Tibetan government-in-exile in Dharamsala, northern India, believes that China's lack of retaliation shows their concern over the Tibet issue and the international community's recognition of the problem. The White House is not concerned about Beijing's warnings and plans to go ahead with the meeting, possibly taking place this month. "The president assured China's leaders during his visit last year that he plans to meet with the Dalai Lama," stated White House spokesperson Bill Burton to reporters. He added that the United States believes that its relationship with China is mature enough to address mutual concerns such as climate change, the global economy, and non-proliferation, as well as openly discuss areas of disagreement. The US acknowledges Tibet as a part of China and hopes for dialogue between Beijing and the Dalai Lama regarding the region's future. However, a Chinese foreign policy expert warned that Beijing's response may be more challenging than expected, as China is becoming more assertive on its core issues and aims to alter the status quo according to Yuan Peng, head of US studies at the China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, in an interview with the Global Times, a Chinese newspaper. In the past, the US has sold weapons to Taiwan and met with the Dalai Lama, which has angered the United States. This time, there will be strong condemnation and retaliation.
| 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced on Thursday that the government plans to establish a second nuclear plant in the southern region of the country. She made this statement while inaugurating six new state-of-the-art scientific research facilities, one of which includes a 3MV Tandem Accelerator.
| 1 |
European countries, Canada, Bolivia, and Nepal provided support for the 2015 Paris Agreement, representing 56.87 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, exceeding the required 55 percent for the agreement to take effect. The agreement will officially begin in 30 days on Nov 4, just before the US presidential election. President Obama hailed the day as historic and emphasized the importance of following through on the commitments outlined in the agreement. Other European Union nations, including Germany, France, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Portugal, and Malta, also signed up for the agreement on Wednesday. According to the UN website, 73 out of 195 countries have ratified the agreement. European Climate Commissioner Miguel Arias Canete praised this accomplishment, stating "Great job!" The Europeans submitted their formal documents to the United Nations ahead of schedule to prevent other nations from ratifying the agreement and triggering its entry into force before them. An EU diplomat explained that they did not want to be overshadowed by other countries. The rapid ratification of an agreement to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions received praise from many, as it aims to limit the effects of climate change such as floods, droughts, stronger storms, and rising sea levels caused by burning fossil fuels. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon stated that what was once considered impossible is now inevitable. However, all agreed that more work is necessary as time is running out. Thoriq Ibrahim, Environment Minister for the Maldives and Chair of the Alliance of Small Island States, emphasized the urgency of the situation due to the threat of rising sea levels. In comparison, the previous UN climate deal, the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, took eight years to gain enough support for implementation. The Paris climate agreement only required wealthy countries to reduce emissions, with the United States choosing not to participate. Opposition to President Obama's climate change policies continues in the Republican-controlled US Congress. House of Representatives Speaker Paul Ryan stated that the agreement would harm the American economy, while Unilever CEO Paul Polman believes the ratification highlights the urgent need for a shift to a low-carbon economy. However, current emission reduction pledges are not enough to meet the Paris goal of keeping global temperatures from rising more than two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. According to studies conducted by the UN, it is projected that global temperatures will increase by at least 3 degrees by the year 2100 if current trends continue. Additionally, this year is anticipated to be the hottest on record since the 19th century, surpassing the previous record set in 2015.
| 1 |
Representatives from the largest producers of greenhouse gases, such as the United States, China, and India, will be attending a forum at the U.S. State Department in an effort to reach a U.N. agreement to reduce global warming. This meeting of major economies aims to kickstart climate discussions before the December deadline, when world leaders will gather in Copenhagen to negotiate a new agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will give the opening speech, and participants will address issues such as technology cooperation. The major economies involved in the forum include Australia, Brazil, Britain, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, and the United States. Denmark, the host of the December meeting, was also extended an invitation. Environmentalists and other stakeholders believe that the United States' dedication to combatting climate change is crucial for the success of any worldwide agreement. Jake Schmidt of the Natural Resources Defense Council activist group stated, "Without U.S. leadership, a global warming agreement in Copenhagen will be largely unattainable." President Barack Obama has emphasized the connection between addressing climate change and supporting the economy, and he called for the meeting to restart the major economies process initiated by his predecessor George W. Bush. The efforts of the Bush administration were met with doubt by many participants and were viewed as a diversion from the primary United Nations negotiations on climate change. Obama's plan to address climate change involves reducing U.S. emissions by approximately 15 percent by 2020, bringing them back to 1990 levels. Unlike his predecessor, Bush, who opposed the Kyoto Protocol and other emission limits, Obama's administration is advocating for action on climate change. They have declared that carbon dioxide emissions pose a threat to human health and welfare, allowing the EPA to regulate them as pollutants. While no regulations have been implemented yet, Obama prefers legislative action over regulation. Currently, there is debate in the U.S. House of Representatives Energy and Commerce Committee on legislation to cap carbon emissions, with support from environmental activist Al Gore. Todd Stern, the U.S. special envoy for climate change, did not give details on what the United States should bring to Copenhagen in December to show leadership on climate change, but he pointed out that the Obama administration's approach is distinct from that of the Bush administration. Stern stated that the Bush team was not focused on reaching an international agreement, whereas the current administration is seeking cooperation at a substantial, potentially groundbreaking level.
| 1 |
The agreement reached in Paris last December by almost 200 countries aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning away from fossil fuels in order to limit global warming to below two degrees Celsius compared to pre-industrial levels. However, in order for the agreement to officially go into effect, it must be ratified by countries representing at least 55 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. A spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General urged all parties to speed up their internal processes to join the agreement promptly this year. The European Union is expected to finalize the joint ratification of the climate pact next week, which will be a significant milestone as it would surpass the 55 percent threshold and put the agreement into effect prior to the upcoming climate talks in Morocco in November. The approval of the Paris agreement was bolstered last month when the United States and China, the two largest emitters worldwide, submitted their approvals to the United Nations. Concerns regarding the involvement of the United States hang over the agreement, but finalizing the deal before the US presidential election on Nov 8 would make it more difficult to challenge if Republican Donald Trump, who is against it, defeats Democrat Hillary Clinton, a strong supporter. President Obama praised India's ratification in a tweet, commending Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the country for carrying on the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and his vision for a better world for future generations. India had requested further work on the agreement before ratifying it, stating that while the Paris agreement provides a broad framework, more specific guidelines and rules are necessary for it to be put into action. The ministry also expressed disapproval towards developed nations, noting that their citizens lead luxurious lives that have a significant impact on the environment. The ministry emphasized the importance of addressing various issues such as finance and technology transfer at the upcoming meeting in Marrakesh. India intends to push developed countries to take more action, and will demand a specific plan of action from them at the meeting in Morocco.
| 1 |
The main point of discussion on Sunday was the mutual accountability between the government and donors, as outlined in the Joint Cooperation Strategy (JCS) agreed upon earlier this year. The Bangladesh Development Forum had determined that this strategy would help coordinate development efforts. The session on Sunday, led by finance minister A M A Muhith, aimed to gather feedback on the draft framework from members of civil society such as economists, NGO leaders, and former bureaucrats. However, the focus of the discussion was primarily on the details of mutual accountability. Qazi Kholiquzzaman Ahmad, head of the Palli Karma Shahayak Fund and a member of high-powered committees on education policy and climate change, noted that issues such as unemployment, underemployment, and education were not adequately addressed in the draft JCS. He expressed concern that agencies often publish growth projections that contradict government forecasts, and emphasized the importance of harmonizing these projections. Ahmad also expressed skepticism about the reliance on development partners for such projections. The draft JCS focuses on improving "mutual accountability" to enhance aid effectiveness, but former caretaker government advisor A B Mirza Azizul Islam highlighted that the draft did not specify how this accountability would be measured. He stated that there are no clear, measurable criteria to assess the JCS's performance. Other participants also agreed with this sentiment. Regarding aid conditionality, Islam mentioned that some conditions imposed by development partners are not relevant. He suggested that the government create project portfolios for development partners to select specific projects for funding. Mustafizur Rahman, executive director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue in Dhaka, highlighted the developed nations' pledge to provide 0.7 percent of their national income as aid to impoverished countries. "What has happened to the responsibility associated with that commitment?" Suranjit Sengupta, a senior Awami League leader, emphasized the importance of parliamentary discussions on the JCS draft. He stated that the framework is intended for the well-being of the people, and the parliament represents those individuals. Mashiur Rahman, the prime minister's economic advisor, proposed the establishment of a body consisting of government and development partner representatives to ensure mutual accountability by overseeing the effectiveness and efficiency of projects. The finance minister, concluding the session, noted that the draft lacked important aspects such as migration, land use planning, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT). He stated that having a land use plan is crucial for the country's organized development, emphasizing the importance of ICT as a valuable tool for progress. Additionally, he noted that ICT can promote transparency and reduce corruption.
| 1 |
French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius confirmed the visit during a meeting with Bangladesh counterpart Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali. Ali returned to Dhaka after a four-day official visit to Paris. Fabius agreed to bring a high-level business delegation, including representatives from MEDEF, the leading French chamber of commerce. He also mentioned plans to inaugurate a Franco-German embassy building in Dhaka with his German counterpart. Fabius praised Bangladesh for its achievements in poverty alleviation, women's education and empowerment, and reducing child and maternal mortality rates under the current government. The foreign ministry stated that their discussion also centered on enhancing the relationship between the two countries, with a particular focus on strengthening economic cooperation. They talked about boosting bilateral trade, increasing French investment in Bangladesh, and speeding up cultural exchange programs. Additionally, they addressed a range of bilateral and international issues, including their shared commitment to addressing climate change, which has a significant impact on Bangladesh. Fabius assured that France would take Bangladesh's concerns into consideration at the upcoming climate change conference in Paris, as Bangladesh is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change. He also expressed a willingness to collaborate with Bangladesh in efforts to combat terrorism and militancy in order to promote global peace. Ali told him about Bangladesh's efforts to enhance connectivity and regional cooperation through various initiatives such as the BBIN-MVA, BCIM economic corridor, and BIMSTEC. Fabius praised Bangladesh's initiatives and offered full cooperation. During his visit to Paris, the foreign minister also visited the Bangla section of INALCO, a language and cultural research institute, and gifted them Bangla books. He also participated in the ceremony where Bangladeshi artist Shahabuddin Ahmad was honored by the French government with the 'Chevalier des arts et des letters' award. Additionally, Ali attended a reception held by expatriate Bangladeshis and engaged in discussions with the Bangladeshi community, as stated by the foreign ministry.
| 1 |
Robinson expressed concern that if the United States chooses to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, it would be a significant loss for both the country and its citizens. She emphasized that the agreement, which aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius by reducing reliance on fossil fuels, is supported by 193 countries. Despite President-elect Donald Trump's pledge to exit the agreement, Robinson believes that other nations will remain committed to its goals. She also highlighted the agreement's provision for $100 billion annually in international funding from 2020 to assist developing countries in transitioning to cleaner energy sources and coping with the effects of climate change. Robinson, who now leads a foundation dedicated to advocating for justice for those disproportionately affected by climate change, remains optimistic about the continued global support for the Paris Agreement. "I believe that even if a large and important country decides not to participate, the overall process will not be negatively impacted," she stated at the UN climate talks in Marrakesh. However, if a country were to withdraw, it could greatly affect the already challenging task of securing international finance to assist developing nations in growing their economies without increasing emissions, which is their goal. She emphasized that the United States, as a major historical emitter that has greatly relied on fossil fuels, has a moral obligation to remain committed to the Paris deal. Despite this, she acknowledged the struggles of Americans who have lost jobs in industries like coal and supported Trump, calling for support to help them transition to new jobs in the clean energy sector. She cautioned against reverting to coal and increasing emissions in the United States, as it would have a negative impact on poor communities and countries globally. As a UN envoy for El Nino and climate change, she shared her experience in dry regions of Honduras where women expressed the devastating effects of worsening drought, including a lack of access to water. The emotional distress on the faces of these women left a lasting impression on her, particularly when one woman stated, "We have no water." The question of how to survive without water is being asked around the world. If the US decides not to pursue clean energy, it would be allowing China to take the lead in a crucial new industry, according to the speaker. This is not the desired outcome for many states, businesses, cities, academic communities, and local communities in the US. She encouraged Americans who were unhappy about the suggested modifications in US policy to speak out. "It is important for people in the United States to express their opinions loudly, and for businesses in the United States to also raise their voices on this issue," she stated.
| 1 |
Leaders of the Commonwealth, a group primarily made up of former British colonies, convened for a three-day summit on Friday with the expectation to address human rights abuses among its members in order to maintain its relevance. Queen Elizabeth of Britain inaugurated the meeting which included leaders from 54 states representing 30 percent of the global population and five of the G20 leading economies. The group has struggled to have a significant impact on global policies. The summit has been overshadowed by calls for a stronger stance on human and political rights violations. A confidential report to the group warned that failure to act could render the Commonwealth ineffective as an organization. Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard emphasized the importance of member nations upholding the group's values and the need for those falling short to make necessary changes. The focus of much of the debate has been on Sri Lanka and the international pressure for an independent investigation into allegations of war crimes during its 25-year civil war, particularly in the final months of 2009. Sri Lanka has stated that it will wait for the results of its own investigation next month, dismissing the pressure as propaganda from the defeated Tamil Tigers. A senior Commonwealth official mentioned that foreign ministers were unable to agree on a key recommendation for the appointment of a rights commissioner in a recent report. Canada, which has a large Tamil community, has announced it will boycott the 2013 Commonwealth summit in Sri Lanka unless there is improvement in the host country's human rights record. Amnesty International's Asia-Pacific Deputy Director, Madhu Malhotra, stated that Commonwealth leaders must choose between reforming the organization to effectively address human rights violations by its members or risk becoming irrelevant. British Prime Minister David Cameron rejected the idea that the Commonwealth was no longer valuable, emphasizing its significance as a network spanning 54 countries across six continents and promoting values of human rights, democracy, and freedom. Additionally, Aboriginal people performed a cleansing ritual during the opening ceremony in Perth, welcoming leaders to their traditional land. Aborigines view the British white settlement of Australia as an invasion, which was evident during a protest in Perth where 500 people demonstrated on various issues. The protesters were kept away from leaders by a large police presence in the central business district, which is dominated by mining companies. Some smaller countries within the group are concerned about global warming and are urging for a strong statement at the upcoming climate change summit in Durban. Additionally, there have been calls for leaders to address the issue of child brides, as twelve of the 20 countries with the highest rates of child brides are in the Commonwealth. Health advocates argue that the laws in 41 Commonwealth states criminalizing homosexuality violate human rights and are hindering efforts to combat HIV-AIDS, a disease that affects 60 percent of the world's population in these states.
| 1 |
The president of the conference received a warm welcome as the Cancún climate summit neared its conclusion, achieving a 'striking balance'. The Mexican foreign minister had successfully found the balance that numerous countries had been looking for. Patricia Espinosa appeared overwhelmed when attendees continued to applaud, including ministers, bureaucrats, activists, journalists, and officials. She had managed to create a text that was largely approved by all parties. With minimal pressure to reach an agreement, nearly all 190 countries stood behind her and endorsed the text. Even the typically critical Venezuelan delegation could not contain their satisfaction. They described the text as "amazing" and noted its "striking balance". The main hall echoed with applause as various delegations took the floor to praise and commend Espinosa's efforts, offering strong support for the text. Greenhouse gases trap the sun's heat in the atmosphere, leading to rising temperatures and ultimately causing extreme climate events such as floods, cyclones, rising sea levels, and persistent droughts. Experts warn that a temperature increase of more than 2 degrees Celsius could result in irreversible and "catastrophic" climate change. Espinosa concluded the lengthy informal plenary just after midnight on Friday and requested delegations to join their respective working groups to complete the necessary but tedious process. Following these meetings will be a closing plenary where the final outcome will be adopted, barring any surprises. Mihir Kanti Majumder, the environment secretary of Bangladesh, expressed that the draft represented progress compared to the previous climate summit in Copenhagen. He believed the draft was acceptable and could be further improved upon. However, another delegate from Bangladesh disagreed, stating that the text was only the beginning, as Espinosa had mentioned in her closing remarks. She stated that the conference marked the beginning of a new phase of cooperation on a strong foundation, rather than being the final outcome. The delegate noted that there were aspects of the agreement that did not align with Bangladesh's negotiating stance or the interests of poorer nations, but all parties agreed to compromise. Ziaul Hoque Mukta, Oxfam Bangladesh's policy and advocacy manager and a member of the national delegation, believed that the agreement, while not fully comprehensive, showed promise for further development. He agreed that the text provided a solid basis for future negotiations at the next UN climate convention summit in Durban, South Africa. Saleemul Huq, a senior researcher at the International Institute for Environmental Development, expressed his approval of the content and production of the text in his initial reaction to bdnews24.com. He supported the points made by the minister, specifically highlighting the importance of the Adaptation Committee and the Green Climate Fund, which he identified as crucial demands of developing countries. As a lead author for assessment reports by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Huq stated that these provisions are beneficial for poor and vulnerable nations, and he commended the clarity and effectiveness of the text. The negotiations led by the Mexicans were well-managed and transparent, according to a long-time insider of complex climate negotiations. The 32-page document was praised for removing all brackets, showing progress compared to Copenhagen. It was noted that the text reflects compromise, where everyone gains something but not everything. He stated that it is more significant because it restores faith in the process and in each other. The joy and happiness shown by the participants clearly showed their gratitude to Espinosa for this specific reason - for reinstating their trust in the multilateral process.
| 1 |
Following a hastily arranged 90-minute meeting at Trump Tower in Manhattan, Abe expressed to reporters that he felt confident in the possibility of establishing a trusting relationship. However, he refrained from sharing specific details of the conversation due to its unofficial nature. This discussion took place at a time when Japan's leadership was feeling apprehensive about the strength of their alliance with the United States, which is crucial to Tokyo's diplomacy and security. Abe and other Asian leaders were concerned about Trump's campaign promises to make allies pay more for US forces' assistance, his suggestion that Japan should obtain nuclear weapons, and his strong opposition to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade agreement. The incoming Republican president will take over from the current Democratic president on January 20th. Abe described his discussion with Trump as open and friendly, emphasizing the importance of trust in alliances. He expressed confidence in Trump's leadership and agreed to meet again to discuss a wider range of topics. It is uncertain if this meeting will happen before Trump's inauguration. Kellyanne Conway mentioned that detailed talks about policy and the Japan-US relationship will have to wait until after the inauguration. Trump officials did not provide immediate comment after meeting with Abe. Abe, a seasoned lawmaker who collaborated closely with Obama on the 12-nation TPP trade agreement as part of Obama's efforts to counter China's growing influence and a key component of Abe's economic reforms, exchanged golfing gear gifts with Trump during their meeting, as per a statement from the Japanese government. Photos from inside the lavish meeting room at Trump Tower depicted Abe, an interpreter, Trump, Ivanka, her husband and Trump advisor Jared Kushner, and Retired Lieutenant General Michael Flynn. Regarding filling administration roles, a senior Trump official stated on Thursday that Trump had offered Flynn the position of national security adviser. While it was uncertain if Flynn had agreed to the job, a source familiar with the offer informed Reuters that when the president-elect asks you to serve, there is only one response. The Pentagon spokesman stated that the Defense Department would conduct its first military briefing for Trump transition officials on Friday as the incoming Trump administration prepares to take office on Jan 20. Other agencies in the Obama administration, such as the Justice Department, are also taking similar steps. Trump, a political outsider, has been focused on deciding who will fill senior positions in his administration since winning the election last week. Democrats in Congress continue to criticize Trump's appointment of right-wing figure Stephen Bannon as senior counsellor. A spokesperson for Nancy Pelosi, the Democratic leader of the House of Representatives, stated that during a meeting with Vice President-elect Mike Pence, she advised for the appointment to be reconsidered. Trump has been holding meetings at Trump Tower with individuals who could potentially take on important roles in his administration. On Saturday, he is scheduled to meet with Mitt Romney, the Republican candidate in the 2012 presidential election, and there may be discussions about appointing him as secretary of state, according to a source familiar with the meeting. This would be a surprising development, as Romney previously criticized Trump and urged Republicans to vote for someone else during the party's presidential nominee selection process. During his campaign, Trump made fun of Romney by saying he "choked like a dog" during the 2012 election against Obama. Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso stated that it was important for Abe to meet with Trump before he officially becomes president, given the significance of Japan-US relations. Abe adviser Katsuyuki Kawai mentioned speaking with various Trump advisers and lawmakers in Washington and was told not to take everything Trump says publicly too seriously. Since becoming prime minister in 2012, Abe has increased Japan's defense spending and pushed the limits of its pacifist constitution to allow for a greater global military presence. Japan's defense spending remains just above 1 percent of its GDP, in contrast to the United States which spends over 3 percent. The US is expected to allocate $5.745 billion for its forces in Japan in the current fiscal year. According to Japan's Defense Ministry, Tokyo's costs associated with US troops stationed in Japan were around 720 billion yen ($6.6 billion) in the previous fiscal year. Some of Trump's previous statements during his campaign painted a negative picture of Japan, reminiscent of the 1980s when Tokyo was viewed as a threat to American jobs and perceived as not contributing enough to defense efforts. However, a Trump adviser recently highlighted a more positive perspective on Japan. He stated that the prime minister has been more assertive and direct in attempting to make changes to Japan's global stance. Abe was anticipated to meet with Obama at a summit in Peru over the weekend. Prior to the meeting between Abe and Trump, Obama's secretary of state, John Kerry, and Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida met in Lima to discuss the Paris climate agreement - an agreement that Trump has vowed to withdraw from. Some diplomats believe that it will be difficult to evaluate Trump's policies on security matters such as the deployment of US troops overseas, China's assertiveness in maritime issues, and the North Korean nuclear threat until key appointments are made.
| 1 |
Before the non-binding resolution was adopted, there was a debate. MEP Charles Tannock stated that he believed the government of Bangladesh was dedicated to upholding citizens' rights to freedom of expression. He commended the government for addressing terrorism despite facing challenging circumstances. Tannock, a MEP from London, contrasted this with European countries' efforts to combat terrorism. He noted that despite their economic progress, European countries were still having difficulty in tackling terrorism. A foreign ministry official who observed the debate stated that Tannock advised Parliament to keep in mind the sensitivity of the issue before criticizing the Bangladesh government's efforts to protect its citizens' rights. The discussion mainly focused on freedom of expression and the press, specifically Article 57 of the ICT Act and the limitations on social media usage. MEPs expressed their disapproval of the increasing attacks by Islamist extremists on secular writers, bloggers, religious minorities, and foreign aid workers, as well as their concerns about restrictions on freedom of speech, press, and civil society. Romanian politician Dan Preda noted the large number of newspapers in Bangladesh and acknowledged the presence of freedom of expression in the country. He denounced the killings of journalists and commended the government's strong stance against terrorism and extremism. He stated that Bangladesh was facing threats from terrorist groups and called on the government to take all necessary measures to safeguard the lives of journalists. Jean Lambert, who heads the European Parliament Delegation to South Asia, noted that Bangladesh's vibrant media was currently under siege. She praised the country's advancements in gender equality, child nutrition, climate change adaptation, and other areas. Lambert emphasized the importance of restoring a robust justice system to ensure that those responsible for the murders of journalists are held accountable. Lawmakers also appealed to the parliament to support Bangladesh in combatting the growing influence of extremism and intolerance. A non-binding resolution is a written proposal passed by a decision-making group that cannot be made into a law. The resolution can cover any topic that can typically be brought up as a motion. Initially, seven different political groups had their own drafts, which were later combined into one joint text. The resolution praised Bangladesh for its modern and secular qualities, as well as its advancements in gender equality, climate change, and socio-economic progress. The MEPs also commended the government's efforts in fighting terrorism and violent extremism, as well as their 'zero-tolerance policy' on these issues. They recommended that the government make changes to the Information and Communication Technology Act, the Cyber-Security Act of 2015, and the Foreign Donation Regulation Act. According to diplomats who monitored the discussion, some Members of the European Parliament were firm in their stance on the death penalty and specifically mentioned the recent execution of war criminals. They highlighted the EP's disapproval of the executions, arrests of opposition leaders, and attacks on minority groups in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh ambassador to the EU disagreed with these references and expressed disappointment, arguing that the EP should not express regret when individuals responsible for crimes against humanity and genocide are brought to justice, as it would damage the Institution's credibility. One of the initial seven drafts contained a mention of the importance of "elections and dialogue", which was also opposed by the ambassador. However, in the final version of the text, these issues were not included. EU Commissioner for Budget & Human Resources, Kristalina Georgieva, emphasized the importance of combating radicalization, upholding human rights, and ensuring labor rights in her closing remarks. She reassured that the EU will continue to support Bangladesh in enhancing democracy and governance.
| 1 |
The royal couple, visiting for five days, also visited a school and a national park in Islamabad where they interacted with children and admired their artwork. The trip, focusing on climate change and education access, is considered by palace officials to be the most challenging due to security concerns. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge also met with Khan at his official residence. Princess Diana, who was beloved in Pakistan, had visited the country multiple times in the 1990s and assisted Khan in fundraising for a cancer hospital. Prior to this, William and Kate spoke with students at an Islamabad Model College for Girls, engaging in conversations about education with older students and observing the classrooms of younger students. As they departed, a group of girls sang a Pakistani national song and the couple greeted preschoolers who had lined up to say goodbye. They then visited Margallah Hills National Park on the outskirts of Islamabad, which is facing threats from poaching, wildfires, invasive species, and littering. Kate wore a periwinkle blue silk shalwar kameez, the traditional Pakistani outfit consisting of a loose tunic over trousers, for the morning events. Many on social media and in the fashion industry had been anticipating her wearing this outfit, which Princess Diana had also worn during her visits. Designer Maheen Khan expressed her honor on Twitter for being asked to create this outfit for the Duchess. Kate's fashion choices, such as a bright green tunic over white pants when meeting with the Prime Minister, seemed to reflect the colors and styles worn by Diana. Experts and officials in the field of foreign policy have stated that the recent trip by a member of the British royal family, the first in over ten years and arranged at the request of the British foreign office, is seen as a strategy to increase soft power. This effort is expected to benefit both countries in achieving their diplomatic goals. The visit is taking place as Britain aims to strengthen its international ties in preparation for its exit from the European Union, while Pakistan is working to improve its global reputation in order to attract more tourists and investments.
| 1 |
The Group of 20 nations, both wealthy and developing, have committed to giving countries like China more influence in reshaping and leading the global economy. They also declared their efforts to combat the crisis a success on Friday. Leaders have vowed to maintain economic support measures until a sustainable recovery is guaranteed, establish a plan for working together to balance economic growth, and enforce stricter regulations on banks by 2012. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated that two-thirds of the world's population have agreed on a global strategy for creating jobs, promoting growth, and achieving long-term economic recovery at the summit in Pittsburgh. US President Barack Obama's hosting of the summit was deemed a success, with leaders confident in their ability to prevent a recession from turning into a depression. In the final communique, they expressed that their efforts had been effective. Obama stated that their strong reaction helped halt the dangerous decline in global activity and stabilize financial markets. He emphasized the need for a new approach to prevent the boom-and-bust economy of the past and stressed the importance of cooperation before a crisis arises. The G20 summit in Pittsburgh marked a shift towards the G20 being the main forum for economic collaboration, replacing the G7 and G8. Colin Bradford, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington, stated that the decision to include a new member in the G7 is a symbolic act of great importance in international politics. He emphasized that this move does not expand the G7 but rather replaces it, marking a significant moment in history. On the other hand, Simon Johnson, a former IMF chief economist, expressed skepticism, referring to the G7 as a "zombie" that is difficult to eliminate. He acknowledged the existing interconnections within the group but noted that at the summit level, they are no longer relevant. The decision to shift focus from the G7 to the G20 is a clear recognition of the growing influence of countries like China and India in the global economy. John Lipsky, deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund, stated that this change reflects economic realities and the need to include major emerging economies in discussions about the global economy. The disclosure of a second Iranian uranium enrichment plant provided an opportunity for Obama, along with leaders of Britain and France, to push for united action against Iran regarding its nuclear program. Obama warned Iran that it must make a decision at the upcoming meeting in Geneva on October 1 about whether it will continue on a path that could lead to confrontation. The group still had challenging economic tasks ahead, as the G20 pledged to avoid the risky behavior that sparked the financial crisis two years ago. They emphasized the need for stability and responsibility in markets, and also targeted excessive pay for bankers, in addition to working on regulatory reforms to be completed by 2010. The leaders came to an agreement that companies should have the ability to recover or take back salaries and bonuses under specific circumstances. This decision was made in order to prevent bankers from receiving large payouts for taking risky actions that result in negative consequences. Additionally, the leaders decided to transfer some voting power at the International Monetary Fund from wealthy countries to those that are underrepresented, like China, indicating a recognition of the shifting economic power dynamics. The G20 also supported a plan to eliminate subsidies for fossil fuels as a way to address climate change, and to intensify efforts to finalize the Doha trade negotiations. Furthermore, global leaders endorsed a U.S.-led initiative to rebalance the global economy, aiming to reduce large surpluses in exporting countries like China and significant deficits in importing nations such as the United States. Obama is aiming to move away from the U.S. tradition of borrowing and spending, and instead focus on saving and investing. This shift will require countries like China, which rely on exports for growth, to make adjustments as well. G20 leaders have agreed to evaluate if their domestic policies align with sustainable and balanced growth. Countries with large surpluses, such as China, have committed to boosting domestic sources of growth, while countries with deficits, like the United States, have promised to support private savings. Economists have long warned that these imbalances could harm the global economy, and previous efforts to address them have not been successful. The United States believes that the current effort to boost global trade will be successful this time because countries like China, who are major exporters, suffered significant economic downturns during the recession, revealing their vulnerability to external shocks. Despite a display of unity, there were tensions regarding the lack of agreement on how to fund efforts to combat climate change, especially with an upcoming climate summit in Copenhagen. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso expressed concern over the slow progress and urged for a more urgent approach. Around 10,000 protesters, critical of capitalism and the G20's agenda, demonstrated outside the G20 convention center, some directing chants at the police. On Friday, there was only one person arrested, and the atmosphere was positive, which was different from the tense protests on Thursday that resulted in conflicts with law enforcement and numerous arrests.
| 1 |
Presidential spokesman Rego Barros stated that the Brazilian government is willing to accept financial assistance from organizations and countries in order to combat the wildfires in the Amazon rainforest. The money received will be under the full control of the Brazilian people. Additionally, a diplomatic source in Brasilia revealed that the Brazilian government has accepted 10 million pounds from Britain for this purpose. Bolsonaro's press office did not provide immediate comment on this news. Earlier in the day, Bolsonaro stated that he would only consider accepting a $20 million offer of aid from the Group of Seven wealthy nations if French President Emmanuel Macron stopped insulting him. Bolsonaro and Macron have been engaged in a very personal and public war of words recently, with Bolsonaro insulting Macron's wife and accusing him of disrespecting Brazil's sovereignty. Macron has called Bolsonaro a liar and suggested that Brazilian women are embarrassed by him. The office of the French president declined to provide a comment. Brazil's president is facing increasing isolation on the world stage due to his handling of the fires, which are seen as a crucial defense against global climate change. The response from the far-right government has the potential to jeopardize Brazil's trade agreements and the influential agribusiness sector, which plays a significant role in the country's struggling economy. Governor Flávio Dino emphasized the importance of not rejecting financial assistance at this time, expressing concerns over the possibility of Brazil facing international sanctions due to the anti-environment rhetoric. The number of wildfires in Brazil has significantly increased this year, with a witness in Rondonia reporting abandoned houses near Porto Velho due to the intense fires. On Tuesday, there were scattered showers, but they were not sufficient to extinguish the fires, as stated by a source. It is predicted by weather data and two experts that widespread rain capable of putting out the fires is still weeks away. An unidentified local farmer expressed concern that the fires would worsen next week, when the forest is typically at its driest. G7 leaders promised $20 million to help combat the fires in the Amazon rainforest, a region often referred to as "the lungs of the world." This pledge, made during a summit in France on Monday, has caused tension within Bolsonaro's nationalist government. Some officials appreciate the much-needed assistance, while others see it as a colonial action that undermines Brazil's sovereignty over its lands. Bolsonaro angered Macron by making disrespectful remarks about his wife on social media. Macron, who has criticized Bolsonaro's stance on climate change, condemned the comments. Bolsonaro stated that he would only consider accepting G7 funds if Macron apologized for his previous statements. Bolsonaro stated that Macron needs to retract his insults, specifically calling him a liar, before any discussions or acceptance of aid from France can take place. Bolsonaro emphasized that Macron must withdraw his words before any further dialogue can occur. Barros, the president's official spokesperson, later mentioned that Brazil is willing to consider international aid as long as they have control over how the funds are utilized. US President Donald Trump also expressed his backing for Bolsonaro, highlighting their similar views on the environment, China, and trade. The Brazilian president is putting in a lot of effort to combat the Amazon fires and is doing a commendable job for the people of Brazil, which is not an easy task. The president has the full support of the USA, as mentioned in a tweet by Trump. Bolsonaro, in response on Twitter, stated that they are successfully fighting the wildfires and that Brazil will always be a global leader in sustainable development. The fires are not just affecting Brazil, with a significant amount of land burning in Bolivia near the borders of Paraguay and Brazil. Peru and Colombia have requested Bolsonaro to attend a meeting on September 6 to discuss the situation and create a long-term coordinated plan to prevent deforestation. Norway's environment minister encouraged representatives from Equinor, Yara, and Norsk Hydro to ensure that their supply chains in Brazil are not connected to deforestation.
| 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed concern about the impact of climate change on the lives of people in Asia and the Pacific region, as well as the national and regional stability. She highlighted natural disasters and fuel shortages as major obstacles to development in the region, emphasizing that global warming poses a serious risk to all. Hasina made these remarks during the opening session of the CIRDAP second ministerial meeting on 'Rural development in Asia and the Pacific' at Dhaka Sheraton hotel. The meeting, attended by representatives from 14 member states of CIRDAP and a few non-member countries, is taking place 23 years after the first one in 1987. The prime minister also noted the increasing urbanization and growing pressure on fuel due to the effects of globalization. She advised the leaders of the region to address the issues caused by climate change and globalization, warning that rural development and poverty eradication programs will not be effective without sustainable results. The prime minister expressed concern about the impact of natural disasters and the economic crisis on food security for the poor. She urged the ministers to work together to find practical solutions to common problems and emphasized the importance of increasing investment and exports to counter the drawbacks of globalization. She also highlighted the need to recognize the challenges and opportunities of globalization from a regional standpoint, noting the identified threats of climate change to low-lying countries. Hasina outlined the poverty reduction initiatives taken by her government, such as the creation of a poverty reduction strategy paper, expansion of social safety nets, increased agriculture subsidies, and efforts to ensure consistent power supply for irrigation. She announced the upcoming implementation of the 'one-house one-farm' program. Other speakers at the event included CIRDAP chairperson and Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Syed Ashraful Islam, State Minister Jahangir Kabir Nanok, Secretary of the Rural Development and Cooperatives Division Rokeya Sultana, and CIRDAP Director General Durga P Paudyal.
| 1 |
Two weeks after a violent mob attacked the U.S. Capitol, President Biden was sworn in as the oldest U.S. president at the age of 78. He emphasized the need for unity in his inauguration speech, stating that overcoming challenges and securing America's future requires more than just words. Biden called for an end to the division between political parties and urged people to open their souls instead of hardening their hearts. The inauguration ceremony was smaller and less festive than usual, with the National Mall adorned with U.S. flags instead of crowds of supporters. President Biden spoke at the Capitol, where a violent attack by Trump supporters occurred on Jan. 6, asserting that his inauguration proved that democracy had prevailed over the attackers. The violence led to Trump's second impeachment by the House for inciting the riot. Biden condemned the attempt to disrupt democracy through violence. Jennifer Lopez performed "America the Beautiful" and "This Land Is Your Land" at President Joe Biden's inauguration ceremony. Kamala Harris, Biden's running mate and the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, made history as the first Black person, first woman, and first Asian American to serve as vice president. She was sworn in by U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina member of the court. Trump broke tradition by refusing to meet with Biden or attend his inauguration, going against the peaceful transfer of power. Instead, he gave a final speech as president, did not mention Biden by name, and then flew to his retreat in Florida. Top Republicans, including Vice President Mike Pence, attended Biden's inauguration, along with former Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton. Biden takes office during a time of national unease, with crises including the pandemic, economic downturn, climate change, and racial inequality. He has pledged to take immediate action, including issuing a series of executive orders on his first day in office. Following a contentious election campaign marred by Trump's unfounded claims of election fraud, Biden adopted a conciliatory approach rarely seen from his predecessor, urging Americans who did not vote for him to give him a chance. In breaking news, Kamala Harris made history by becoming the first woman and woman of color to be sworn in as vice president of the United States. Biden declared, "I pledge this to you: I will be a president for all Americans." "I assure you that I will advocate just as fiercely for those who did not support me as for those who did," Biden stated. While his comments were mainly focused on domestic issues, he also expressed a commitment to rebuilding international alliances strained by Trump, and vowed to lead as a reliable partner for peace, progress, and security. Despite not mentioning specific conflicts with North Korea, Iran, and China, Biden's inauguration marks the culmination of a long career in public service, including time in the U.S. Senate and as vice president under Obama. However, he now confronts challenges that would test even the most seasoned politician. On Trump's final full day in office, the United States reached two grim milestones related to the pandemic: 400,000 deaths and 24 million infections, the highest numbers in any country. Millions of Americans are unemployed due to pandemic-related shutdowns. President Biden has promised to use the full resources of the federal government to address the crisis, with his main focus being a $1.9 trillion plan to increase jobless benefits and provide direct cash payments to households. Lady Gaga performed "The Star-Spangled Banner" at President Biden's inauguration, but the success of Biden's plan will depend on approval from a divided Congress. Harris was set to swear in three new Democratic senators on Wednesday evening, resulting in a 50-50 split in the chamber with herself as the deciding vote. Biden is expected to quickly move on from the Trump era by signing 15 executive actions on issues such as the pandemic, economy, and climate change. These actions will include requiring masks on federal property, rejoining the Paris climate accord, and lifting Trump's travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries. Despite Biden's ambitious plans for his first 100 days, the Senate may be preoccupied with Trump's upcoming impeachment trial, which will proceed even though he has left office. This trial could test Biden's pledge to foster bipartisanship in Washington. In his last hours in office, Trump granted over 140 pardons and commutations, including one for his ex-political adviser Steve Bannon, who is facing charges for allegedly deceiving Trump supporters in a fundraising scheme for a border wall. Contrary to speculation, Trump did not pardon himself or his family members.
| 1 |
US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is set to arrive in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon for a two-day official visit aimed at discussing bilateral issues with Bangladesh. She is expected to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 4:10 pm, where she will be greeted by foreign minister Dipu Moni. The two ministers will engage in formal talks in the afternoon, followed by a joint press briefing and the signing of a declaration on Bangladesh-US Partnership Cooperation. During her visit, Clinton will also meet with prime minister Sheikh Hasina, opposition leader Khaleda Zia, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, Brac chairman Fazle Hasan Abed, and members of the civil society. Bangladesh is determined to advocate for duty-free access for its garment products in the US market. As a least developed country, Bangladesh believes it is entitled to duty-free access to wealthy countries like the US. Other important topics of discussion for Bangladesh include membership in the Millennium Challenge Corporation fund and the extradition of Rashed Chowdhury, the killer of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who is currently residing in the US. The US, on the other hand, has strategic interests in Muslim-majority Bangladesh, with its importance growing following the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea's decision in March that granted Bangladesh a significant area in the Bay of Bengal. It is also a participant in all four worldwide initiatives of President Barack Obama - global food security, global health, climate change, and engagement with Muslim countries. Other US interests in this region include safeguarding and advancing US investments, strengthening security partnerships, and increasing export opportunities. ConocoPhilips, an American company, is currently conducting gas and oil exploration in blocks 10 and 11 in the Bay of Bengal and is looking to explore six more blocks. In April, Bangladesh and the US held their first security dialogue to further collaboration in this area.
| 1 |
Presidential candidate Barack Obama is traveling to Berlin to deliver a public speech on transatlantic ties, which is expected to attract a large audience. He is highly popular in Germany and will also meet Chancellor Angela Merkel for the first time, despite her initial opposition to his plan to speak at the Brandenburg Gate. Instead, Obama will give his speech at the "Victory Column" in Berlin's Tiergarten park, near the Gate. Obama hopes his speech will emphasize the importance of the relationship between the United States and Europe and how it should be strengthened. During Gerhard Schroeder's time as Chancellor, relations between the United States and Germany were at a post-war low due to his strong opposition to the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003. However, Angela Merkel, who grew up in East Germany, has made significant efforts to mend the relationship and has become one of President George W. Bush's closest allies in Europe. Merkel stated that she anticipated discussing NATO cooperation, climate change, and trade issues with Senator Barack Obama during their meeting at the Chancellery, which is expected to last about an hour. They are also likely to touch on Afghanistan and Iraq, where Obama began his Middle East and European tour. Obama expressed concern about the precarious and urgent situation in Afghanistan during his visit to Kabul on Sunday. Limits have been expressed by both Angela Merkel and her Republican opponent John McCain regarding Europe's role in a conflict. Merkel stated that she will inform Obama of Germany's limitations during his visit. The debate over whether Obama should speak at the Brandenburg Gate has caused tension between Merkel and her foreign minister. Merkel believes the landmark is meant for presidents, not candidates, to address. Despite being compared to Reagan and Kennedy, Obama humbly stated that he is just a citizen. He stated that Berlin represents the success of the post-war efforts to unite the continent and the West. Approximately 700 policemen will be present during the visit, and barriers have been erected around the "Siegessaeule", a 230-foot-high column commemorating Prussian military victories. Crowd estimates range from 10,000 to nearly a million. The speech will be broadcast live on German public television station ARD. According to a Pew Research Center poll, Germans preferred Obama over McCain by a 49-point margin. The prominent weekly magazine Der Spiegel focused its weekend edition on the visit, featuring a photo of Obama on the front cover with the headline "Germany meets the Superstar".
| 1 |
British Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated that his main focus for 2008 would be addressing the global credit crunch and navigating through the financial instability. He emphasized that the current credit issues originating in the United States are now a major challenge for all economies and must be dealt with as a top priority. Brown expressed confidence in the UK's strong economy as the foundation for weathering the financial storm, and vowed to lead with unwavering determination to maintain stability amidst global turbulence. Despite facing criticism and a decline in popularity due to government missteps and economic challenges such as the Northern Rock crisis, Brown remained committed to guiding the country through the uncertain times ahead. Northern Rock, a prominent casualty of the credit crisis in Britain, has had to borrow a minimum of 25 billion pounds ($50 billion) from the Bank of England. Prime Minister Brown and finance minister Alistair Darling have faced criticism for their handling of the crisis, but Brown remains confident that the economy will stay on track. Despite solid growth since Brown's Labour Party came into power in 1997, concerns have been raised about a potential slowdown next year due to declining house prices and consumer confidence. Brown, who has been finance minister for 10 years under Blair, has reassured that stability will not be compromised and has promised to maintain low interest rates by controlling inflation. He has also arranged a meeting in London with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Nicolas Sarkozy to discuss financial market stability, set to take place in the first half of January. Brown's popularity declined after a brief period of support from voters, with Labour trailing the Conservatives by as much as 13 points in opinion polls. Scandals involving the loss of personal data by the tax agency and secret donations to Labour have caused embarrassment for Brown. In response to pressure to outline his vision, Brown promised in his New Year's message that 2008 would bring significant changes to Britain, including new laws addressing energy, climate change, health, pensions, housing, education, and transport, as well as continued efforts to combat global terrorism.
| 1 |
The Strategic Dialogue, led by Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Md Shahidul Haque and Permanent Under Secretary of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office Sir Simon McDonald, will involve a delegation of 15-20 members from the UK side, including representatives from various government departments. The Bangladesh side will consist of representatives from multiple ministries and divisions. The two-day dialogue will cover a range of topics including bilateral relations, regional and multilateral issues such as Rohingya crisis, terrorism, trade and investment, regional connectivity, climate change, and cooperation in areas like UN peacekeeping and Sustainable Development Goals. McDonald is anticipated to deliver a speech on UK-Bangladesh relations during the period of Brexit at the Bangladesh Institute of International Strategic Studies. Additionally, he is expected to engage with young leaders and diplomats while visiting. The UK secretary will hold a private meeting with the Bangladesh counterpart, and the Bangladesh High Commissioner to the UK, Saida Muna Tasneem, will be present at the dialogue.
| 1 |
The COP26 conference in Glasgow began after the G20 nations failed to agree on a 2050 target to stop net carbon emissions, which is seen as crucial in preventing severe global warming. During talks in Rome, they only acknowledged the importance of halting emissions by mid-century, did not set a timeline for phasing out coal domestically, and weakened commitments to reducing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas. Greta Thunberg urged her followers to sign a letter accusing leaders of betrayal and called for immediate action on the climate crisis. In Glasgow on Monday, many leaders will speak about their climate change efforts and make new promises at the start of crucial negotiations. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will emphasize the urgent need for action, stating that humanity must act now as time is running out. If we do not take immediate action on climate change, our future generations will not have the opportunity to do so later. However, disagreements among major emitters on how to reduce coal, oil, and gas emissions and support developing countries in adapting to global warming will only make the task more difficult. US President Joe Biden criticized China and Russia for not presenting proposals to address climate change at the G20 summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, will provide a written statement at the conference on Monday. Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan will not be attending the COP26 conference in Glasgow due to Britain's failure to meet Ankara's security and protocol demands. The conference, delayed by a year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, aims to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This goal requires more ambitious emissions reduction pledges, increased climate financing for developing countries, and finalizing the rules for the 2015 Paris Agreement. Current emissions reduction commitments would result in a temperature increase of 2.7 degrees Celsius, which the United Nations warns would exacerbate the destructive effects of climate change. "Africa may only account for 3 percent of global emissions, but its people are bearing the brunt of the climate crisis," stated Ugandan activist Evelyn Acham in an interview with the Italian newspaper La Stampa. She emphasized that Africans are not to blame for the crisis, as they have suffered the consequences of colonialism that exploited the continent's resources for many years. Acham stressed the importance of fair distribution of responsibilities. Following two days of speeches by world leaders beginning on Monday, technical negotiations will take place. It is possible that a deal may not be reached until close to or even after the event's November 12 conclusion.
| 1 |
Xu, who is the assistant administrator of the region and the UN Assistant Secretary-General, will be in Bangladesh until May 21, according to UNDP in Dhaka. During his visit, Xu plans to meet with senior ministers and key officials to discuss various issues such as economic growth, innovation, and the country's resilience. The purpose of his visit is to provide the international community and global development partners with a better understanding of Bangladesh and its future goals. Xu's visit is significant for Bangladesh as he will assess the success of UNDP initiatives focused on reducing urban poverty, disaster management, and climate change adaptation. He will travel to Dakop and Hatia to see these projects, as well as visit the Chittagong Hill Tracts to observe UNDP-led initiatives in peace building. Prior to his current role, Xu worked in Asia and the Pacific, as well as Eastern Europe and CIS nations. He has served as the UNDP Resident Representative and UN Resident Coordinator in Kazakhstan, and as the Deputy Regional Director for Europe and the CIS in New York.
| 1 |
Chinese President Hu Jintao praised the growing cooperation between China and Japan during his visit to Tokyo on Tuesday. As a friendly gesture, he offered a pair of pandas to Japan in an effort to build trust between the two nations. This state visit, only the second by a top Chinese leader, comes as China works to address international concerns over Tibetan unrest ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games in Beijing. Despite some peaceful protests in Tokyo calling for human rights in Tibet, the visit proceeded without any major incidents thanks to the deployment of 7,000 police officers. China aims to improve its image as a friendly neighbor, especially after years of conflict with Japan over its handling of wartime aggression. Hu, who has emphasized the importance of looking towards the future during his five days of meetings and ceremonies, highlighted the benefits of stable and friendly relations between the two countries, whose economies are increasingly interconnected. Upon his arrival in Tokyo, he expressed optimism about the potential for further development in the relationship and stated his desire to enhance mutual trust and strengthen friendship. As a goodwill gesture, Hu offered to gift Japan two pandas for research purposes, which may help to win over a skeptical Japanese public following the recent passing of popular panda Ling Ling at a Tokyo zoo. During an informal dinner with Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda at a historic Tokyo restaurant linked to Sun Yat-sen, the "father" of modern China, an offer was made. China has become Japan's top trade partner, surpassing the United States last year with $236.6 billion in two-way trade. The Chinese ambassador to Japan, Cui Tiankai, emphasized the importance of cooperation between China and Japan in promoting regional economic integration and addressing international challenges. Despite the growing trade relationship, anxieties in Japan persist over Beijing's expanding diplomatic and military influence, as well as concerns about disputed energy resources and the safety of Chinese exports. A commentator in China's People's Daily noted that while the relationship between China and Japan has improved, further efforts from both sides are needed for fully warming relations. The highlight of Hu's visit is expected to be a summit with Fukuda on Wednesday, during which they plan to present a plan for managing their future relationship. Both Beijing and Tokyo want to avoid a repeat of Jiang Zemin's visit to Japan ten years ago, where tensions rose after he criticized Japan's past invasion and occupation of China. Relations between China and Japan became strained during Junichiro Koizumi's time as prime minister due to his visits to the Yasukuni war shrine, but have since improved. Negotiations are ongoing regarding sensitive issues such as Taiwan, human rights, Japan's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council, and disputes over gas reserves in the East China Sea. Additionally, a recent incident involving Chinese-made dumplings tainted with pesticide has become a symbolic issue of Japanese concerns about China's growing influence. Japan is seeking more transparency regarding China's increasing defense spending, which reached 418 billion yuan ($60 billion) in 2008, a 17.6 percent increase from the previous year and surpassing Japan's defense budget. Critics believe that China's actual military budget is even higher. Tokyo is also hoping for Chinese support in obtaining a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a contentious issue that has fueled anti-Japanese sentiment in China due to lingering resentment over Japan's wartime occupation. China, in turn, is urging Japan to clarify its position on Taiwan, a self-governed island that Beijing insists must reunite with the mainland. Tokyo has expressed its backing for a "one China" policy that encompasses Taiwan, a former Japanese colony for half a century until 1945 and maintains strong connections with Japan. While major progress on particular issues is not anticipated, both parties are eager to emphasize positive intentions for the future and plan to release a collaborative document on combating climate change, an important subject for Japan as the host of the upcoming G8 summit in July. Hu is scheduled to address Japanese students at Waseda University in Tokyo and may also relax by playing ping-pong with Fukuda.
| 1 |
At a session of the Munich Security Conference, President Biden's message about the importance of revitalizing alliances and reaffirming Europe's defense was well-received. However, French President Emmanuel Macron pushed back, advocating for Europe's "strategic autonomy" from the US due to a shift in focus towards Asia, particularly China. Even German Chancellor Angela Merkel, while praising Biden's decision to cancel troop withdrawals, cautioned that their interests may not always align. Despite these differences, all three leaders acknowledged the end of the "America First" era and welcomed back Biden, whom they knew from his previous roles. Biden also emphasized the need for a united strategy against misinformation spread by Putin and Xi, who suggested that the chaos in the US election reflected democratic weakness. Biden emphasized the importance of proving that democracies can still effectively serve their people in today's world, stating that it is necessary to show that their model is not outdated. The president, who has been a regular attendee at the Munich conference even before his presidency, delivered his address in a video meeting due to the pandemic. He also participated in a brief closed meeting with the Group of 7 allies, hosted by Prime Minister Boris Johnson of Britain, also held virtually. The next in-person summit is scheduled for Britain this summer, pending the status of the pandemic. While Biden did not mention his predecessor, Donald Trump, directly, he focused on moving away from Trumpism in the United States' foreign policy approach. He marked the return to the Paris climate agreement and a new initiative to engage Iran diplomatically with Britain, France, and Germany to restore the 2015 nuclear agreement. During an online G7 meeting, Biden emphasized the importance of recalling the first principles that led to the Atlantic alliance and NATO's creation in 1949 at the start of the Cold War. French President Emmanuel Macron participated in the meeting in Paris on February 19, 2021. Biden stressed that democracy does not occur by chance. "We must protect it. Make it stronger. Revitalize it." Biden contrasted himself with Trump by emphasizing the importance of NATO and the United States' commitment to it. He stated that the US is prepared to fulfill its obligations under Article V, emphasizing that an attack on one member is an attack on all. Biden also urged Europe to consider new challenges, such as competition with China in areas like cyberspace, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. He advocated for standing up to Russia, specifically mentioning the SolarWinds attack on government and corporate computer networks. Biden emphasized the importance of addressing Russian hacking for global security. The president did not address the challenge of punishing Russia without worsening tensions. White House officials are still examining the extent of the Russian intrusion and struggling to find ways to hold Putin accountable. The focus on Biden's relationship with Macron, who has criticized NATO, was notable. Macron believes NATO should become more of a political body where European members have equal status to the United States and are not dominated by American decision-making. He argues that a more autonomous Europe would strengthen NATO, with Europe taking more responsibility for its own security by increasing defense spending to rebalance the trans-Atlantic relationship. However, not all European states share this view, with many reluctant to spend the necessary funds and Central and Eastern European nations preferring to rely on the United States for security. Macron also suggests engaging in dialogue with Russia to improve NATO's security capabilities, despite Russia's lack of interest in better relations as long as sanctions remain in place following the annexation of Crimea. Macron emphasized the need for Europe to take on more responsibility for its own protection, as he expressed concern about the reliability of the United States in the future. He acknowledged that it will be a lengthy process for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities, but he is committed to initiating this process now. Additionally, he aims to enhance the EU's technological capabilities to reduce its reliance on American and Chinese supply chains. Biden aims to strengthen supply chains with Western allies to reduce Chinese influence, proposing a joint project for European and American tech companies. German Chancellor Angela Merkel discussed the challenges of dealing with China, acknowledging its dual role as both a competitor and partner for the West. She stated that Russia consistently involves European Union members in hybrid conflicts. Therefore, it is crucial to develop a trans-Atlantic approach towards Russia that offers cooperation while also clearly addressing differences. Biden pledged to fulfill a promise to donate $4 billion towards expediting the production and distribution of vaccines globally. However, there were noticeable differences in approach during the meeting. Macron emphasized the EU's focus on Africa and urged Western nations to provide 13 million vaccine doses to African governments promptly to protect healthcare workers. He warned that failure to do so could lead African nations to seek vaccines from other sources. Macron stated that vaccine donations would demonstrate a shared commitment to advancing and upholding common values. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of the WHO also called for countries and drugmakers to accelerate vaccine production and distribution worldwide to prevent leaving some countries behind and potentially regressing in progress. Tedros emphasized at the Munich conference that ensuring fair distribution of vaccines is not only morally right, but also the most strategic approach. He pointed out that delaying vaccination efforts in any country would prolong the pandemic's grip on global control.
| 1 |
The traditional belief has been that Israel relied heavily on the United States for its survival. However, experts suggest that Israel may have now achieved a level of independence from the US, despite still benefiting from its assistance. According to political analysts and security experts, Israel has quietly developed its autonomy from Washington. Vipin Narang, a political scientist from MIT, notes that there is a noticeable increase in Israeli independence. Israel no longer relies on US security guarantees for protection from neighboring states or American mediation in the Palestinian conflict. Israelis are comfortable with the current state of the conflict and support maintaining it. Israel now produces many of its essential weapons domestically and has become more self-sufficient diplomatically by cultivating allies outside of Washington. Israelis are also less concerned with US approval culturally and put less pressure on their leaders to maintain good relations with Washington. US aid to Israel has remained high in absolute terms, but Israel's economic growth over the years has made the country less reliant on it. In 1981, US aid made up nearly 10% of Israel's economy, but by 2020, it was closer to 1%. Washington's influence in the conflict was further diminished when they called for a cease-fire only after an Egyptian-brokered agreement was almost complete. Israeli leaders agreed to the cease-fire because they had achieved their military objectives in a ten-day conflict with Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be visiting the region this week, but he has stated that he does not plan to restart formal Israeli-Palestinian peace talks. The change is happening as a group of Democrats and activists on the left who are upset about Israel's treatment of Palestinians and bombing of Gaza are starting to question Washington's longstanding stance on Israel. Despite this, there are still a significant number of Americans who support Israel, and Democratic politicians have not fully embraced their voters' increasing support for Palestinians. The United States still has influence over Israel due to the arms and diplomatic support it provides, as seen during former President Donald Trump's strong alliance with the Israeli government. However, American influence may be weakening to the point where Israel may start acting independently, regardless of bipartisan agreements. Steps towards becoming self-sufficient have been taken by Israel in reengineering the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, which is now largely considered bearable by Israeli voters and leaders. The violence that was prevalent during the Second Intifada 15 years ago has decreased significantly, with lower-level incidents occurring sporadically in the West Bank and even less frequently in Israel itself. Despite occasional outbreaks of fighting with Gaza-based groups, Israel has managed to shift the majority of the burden onto the people of Gaza. Conflict deaths, which used to be 3-to-1 Palestinian-to-Israeli, now have a ratio closer to 20-to-1. Meanwhile, many Israelis are disillusioned with the peace process and see periodic fighting as the least undesirable option. The occupation remains a heavy burden for Palestinians, but for most Jewish Israelis, it is easy to ignore on a daily basis. Yaël Mizrahi-Arnaud, a research fellow at the Forum for Regional Thinking, noted that Israelis have grown more accepting of this situation, considering it a cost they are willing to bear. This status quo can be sustained by Israel without much assistance from outside sources. In previous years, Israel heavily relied on US-made military equipment, which required approval from both Congress and the White House. However, they now depend on domestically produced missile defense technology, showcasing their determination for self-sufficiency. Despite initial skepticism, Israel has successfully developed a highly effective missile defense system at a reasonable cost. The pursuit of military autonomy began in the 1990s, fueled by strained relations with the George HW Bush administration and doubts about long-term American support. This belief has become stronger over time with subsequent presidents, who have been pushing for peace with the Palestinians, despite Israeli preferences to maintain control of the West Bank and blockade Gaza. This has led Israel to seek independent capabilities and intelligence gathering to reduce its vulnerability to US pressure. Israel no longer heavily relies on US protection and is less concerned about international isolation, as it now faces a more favorable international climate. Countries that were once considered "anti-imperialist" and challenged Israel have shifted their focus. Although international opinions on Israel vary, with many Muslim-majority societies holding strongly negative views, Israel has developed relationships with countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Even neighboring Arab states like Jordan and Egypt, who were once enemies, are now seeking peace, and tensions have eased with other Arab nations. In the past year, the Abraham Accords, facilitated by Trump, led to Israel establishing diplomatic relations with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates. Israel has since normalized relations with Morocco and reached a diplomatic agreement with Sudan. "We used to discuss the possibility of a diplomatic tsunami approaching, but it never came to fruition," stated Dahlia Scheindlin, an Israeli political expert and pollster. Scheindlin conducts a yearly survey asking Israelis to prioritize national issues. Security and the economy consistently rank highest, while foreign relations are now at the bottom of the list. European diplomats issue warnings that have no consequences, while Democrats discuss the future of the alliance. However, Israelis believe their international standing is strong. Israel has also tried to distance itself from the United States in terms of diplomacy. In the mid-2010s, Benjamin Netanyahu opposed Obama’s reelection due to his Middle East policies, damaging relations. Netanyahu has since formed alliances with illiberal democracies like Brazil, Hungary, and India, who admire Israel's treatment of Palestinians. This strategy, known as the "other friends policy," has led Israelis to no longer see US support as vital for their survival. The increasing trend towards nationalism has led to a decreased importance placed on international criticism. The traditional leverage of Washington's support for Israel's democratic credentials is becoming less significant over time. In the past, it was believed that one of the main responsibilities of an Israeli prime minister was to maintain bipartisan support from Washington, so when Netanyahu aligned with Republicans and criticized Obama, it was expected that he would face backlash at home. However, Obama and congressional Democrats did not significantly alter their support. Americans elected Trump, who showed more favoritism towards Netanyahu than any other president before him. This situation gave Israelis a feeling of being able to act without consequences. According to Scheindlin, Israelis have learned that they can manage tense situations and rocky relations. Since President Biden's election, focus groups have shown that Israelis no longer worry about backlash from American politicians. They seem unfazed and resigned to the idea that it's just America. Many Israelis have become disinterested in the peace process, viewing it as futile and of low importance due to a status quo they find acceptable. This shift in attitude towards peace has altered the relationship with the United States, as Israeli leaders no longer feel pressured to show their commitment to peace to Washington. Instead, they face growing demands to challenge American policies by expanding settlements in the West Bank or even annexing it. Israel is not the first small state to seek independence from a powerful patron. In this case, however, it was the Americans who helped Israel build up its military and diplomatic independence, ultimately diminishing their own influence. After almost 50 years of not using this leverage to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, it may now be lost forever. Mizrahi-Arnaud noted that Israel now feels empowered to act without consequences, questioning when was the last time the United States pressured Israel.
| 1 |
Indian defence analysts have warned the Indian government not to become complacent in enhancing India-Bangladesh relations and moving towards a strategic partnership. A report titled 'India and Bangladesh: Moving Towards Convergence' by the Institute of Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) suggests faster implementation of issues outlined in the 2010 joint communiqué, such as security, trade deficit, and border concerns. The report emphasizes the importance of maintaining the positive momentum in bilateral relations following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit and suggests that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's upcoming visit to Dhaka presents an opportunity to elevate India-Bangladesh relations to a higher level. The report also stresses the need to address longstanding issues like border demarcation, enclaves, river water sharing, and the Teen Bigha corridor flyover to improve relations between the two countries. They suggested that the two parties should consider exploring new areas of collaboration in climate change, environment, agricultural research, water management, remote sensing, IT and communications technologies, marine technologies, medicine and health, among others. The report emphasized the establishment of connections between relevant institutions, with a focus on collaborative research and building capacity. Additionally, it recommended that both nations work together to address challenges related to pandemics and arsenic-contaminated water. In regards to the water-sharing issue, the panel advised the government that despite minor disagreements, an agreement should be reached on the sharing of the water from the Teesta and four other rivers, as Bangladesh is seeking a deal on river water sharing. A finalized draft of the Teesta deal has been prepared, and India has praised Bangladesh for addressing its security concerns. The report acknowledges India's efforts to assist Bangladesh and improve cooperation between the two countries. The Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) believes that while security cooperation with Bangladesh is praiseworthy, it should be formalized to ensure continuity beyond specific political regimes. The report also highlights the importance of information sharing and joint border patrolling. The possibility of adopting the US-Mexico model for joint border management is being considered. The IDSA suggested that India should take a leading role in the South Asia Task Force on terrorism proposed by Bangladesh, and recommended setting up a counter-terrorism center in Dhaka with Indian funding. The group also emphasized the importance of enhancing military cooperation between the two countries, including search and rescue operations, joint patrolling in piracy-prone areas of the Bay of Bengal, capacity building, and joint exercises, noting that such defense cooperation would help build mutual confidence. The text proposed the establishment of a dialogue mechanism that includes both governments and non-governmental organizations involved in de-radicalization efforts. It emphasized that fundamentalism and extremism pose a common threat, and both sides should collaborate closely to address it. Regarding trade, the report highlighted the importance of transit and stated that connectivity should be a top priority, with both countries working to implement it quickly. A public campaign promoting the benefits of connectivity for both sides could be initiated, focusing on regional countries such as Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Thailand. The report emphasizes the advantages of trade and transit connectivity between neighboring countries and suggests addressing trade issues and strengthening economic linkages. It recommends Bangladesh to attract Indian investment and for India to assist in renovating and modernizing Bangladesh's power infrastructure. Additionally, the report advises the Indian government to encourage Bangladesh to address the issue of illegal migration. Both parties should strive to establish a conducive atmosphere for resolving this issue peacefully. "Alternative approaches such as implementing work permits could be explored."
| 1 |
Alok Sharma, the chair of the conference, urged nearly 200 national delegations in Glasgow to agree on a deal that addresses the needs of climate-vulnerable nations, major industrial powers, and countries reliant on fossil fuel consumption or exports for economic growth. In the final hours of the two-week conference, which had already gone over schedule by a day, Sharma advised delegates to consider what is sufficient rather than what more they can demand. He emphasized the importance of assessing whether the proposed package is fair and adequate for everyone, and urged delegates to determine if the texts will benefit all people and the planet in the long run. Prior to a plenary meeting to vote on the deal, representatives from India, China, the United States, and the European Union gathered to discuss language regarding the agreed phase-out of coal. The final agreement must receive unanimous approval from the countries present, which include coal- and gas-fueled superpowers, oil producers, and Pacific islands facing rising sea levels. The primary goal of the meeting is to work towards the 2015 Paris Agreement's target of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. A draft agreement circulated on Saturday recognized that current commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are insufficient, prompting nations to set more ambitious climate goals next year, rather than every five years as currently required. During a public discussion with key delegations, China, the world's largest coal producer and consumer, stated it had no intention of revising the text. The West African nation of Guinea advocated strongly on behalf of the G77 group of developing countries for increased commitments from wealthy nations to compensate them for "loss and damage" caused by unpredictable climate disasters. Guinea also indicated that the group would accept the progress that had been made. However, India, whose energy needs rely heavily on its own abundant coal reserves, expressed dissatisfaction. Environment and Climate Minister Bhupender Yadav stated that a consensus was difficult to reach, without specifying if India would block a vote on the agreement. EU Climate Commissioner Frans Timmermans, speaking after Yadav, warned against prolonging the conference with additional text amendments, urging delegates not to jeopardize the progress made. Scientists warn that exceeding a 1.5C temperature increase would result in severe consequences such as extreme sea level rise, devastating droughts, powerful storms, and wildfires worse than those currently experienced worldwide. The current commitments from countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide from fossil fuel burning, would only limit the global temperature increase to 2.4 Celsius. A recent draft from the United Nations urged the phasing out of coal power and reducing government subsidies for oil, coal, and gas. Past UN climate conferences have not specifically addressed the damaging impact of fossil fuels on the environment.
| 1 |
In Copenhagen, environment ministers are working to resolve disagreements between wealthy and developing countries before the deadline for a global agreement on addressing climate change. Yvo de Boer, the head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized tensions between China and the United States, urging all nations to increase their commitments in the negotiations. He expressed hope that in the upcoming days, all countries will urge one another to step up their efforts. The ministers were engaged in informal discussions during a one-day break in the December 7-18 meeting that includes 190 nations. This meeting will end with a summit of world leaders on Thursday and Friday, which will include US President Barack Obama. Danish Minister Connie Hedegaard informed reporters that there are still numerous challenges and unresolved issues, but there is also a visible political determination among the ministers. The discussions involve representatives from both wealthy and developing nations who have been debating over responsibilities for emissions reductions, the extent of these reductions, and who should provide funding for them. Countries like China and India are calling for the industrialized world to make more significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and provide financial support to developing nations in order to transition to more environmentally friendly practices and adapt to climate change. Indian Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh expressed optimism about reaching a fair agreement in Copenhagen if all parties trust each other and show courage and conviction. Developed nations argue that developing countries must also commit to reducing carbon emissions to avoid potentially catastrophic levels of global warming. China aims to finalize a solid agreement before Premier Wen Jiabao attends the summit with other world leaders. Senior Chinese envoy Su Wei indicated that the leaders are expected to arrive to celebrate the positive outcome of the talks. Archbishop Desmond Tutu delivered thousands of signatures to the UN calling for climate action, followed by a church service at Copenhagen's Cathedral led by Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams and attended by Danish royalty. Police have released most of the nearly 1,000 people detained after a march on Saturday, which turned violent with demonstrators smashing windows and setting fire to cars. Some of the individuals who were detained claimed that they were unjustly held and mistreated by the police. Hana Nelson, a 24-year-old student from Halifax, Canada, who was released without charges, stated, "They arrested us without cause. We were all peaceful."
| 1 |
During the meeting on December 6, Secretary Bilateral and Consular of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kamrul Ahsan and Director General of Foreign Policy of the Portuguese Foreign Ministry Pedro Sanchez Da Costa Pereira led their respective sides. They agreed to increase cooperation in order to strengthen and broaden the bilateral relations between their countries. The discussions included topics such as trade and investment, power and energy - especially renewable energy, blue economy and maritime resources, tourism and culture, employment opportunities for Bangladeshi workers, as well as regional and international issues like Brexit, Rohingya crisis, climate change, and other mutual interests. Portugal commended Bangladesh for its socio-economic progress and praised its humanitarian efforts in sheltering over a million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar. Portugal also showed interest in participating in future projects, especially in infrastructure, ICT, power, and renewable energy sectors. The two parties have agreed to conduct frequent political discussions and regular visits at various levels, such as political, business, civil society, and public groups, in order to enhance their relationship.
| 1 |
The foreign minister praised Bangladesh for its exemplary management of natural disasters and stated that the prime minister aims to increase efforts in this area. He emphasized that Bangladesh cannot handle disaster management alone and is open to collaborating with regional and global organizations such as BIMSTEC, SAARC, Delta Coalition, Climate Vulnerable Forum, and IORA. Bangladesh is recognized as a leader in advocating for climate issues on a global scale. The foreign minister made these remarks at the 2019 Thematic Meeting of PDD in Dhaka, which was attended by high-level delegations and experts. Displacement caused by slow or sudden disasters is a worldwide issue, worsened by unpredictable climate change and environmental degradation. Momen shared stories from Bangladesh, where a rickshaw puller in Sylhet explained that he had to move to a different area in Barisal due to erosion of his land, forcing him to seek safety and livelihood elsewhere. This man is not alone, as many residents of Dhaka have also been forced to move due to similar reasons related to climate change. The World Bank predicts that a 1 meter rise in sea level could affect 20 percent of Bangladesh's coastal region, displacing millions of people. Momen inquired about the destination for climate change migrants, noting that Bangladesh is highly susceptible to climate impacts. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina implemented measures to adapt to climate change, including the adoption of a "Climate Change Strategies & Action Plan" in 2009. She engaged communities, trained 60,000 volunteers, built 3,800 cyclone shelters, and promoted afforestation. Furthermore, Bangladesh constructed embankments along 70-80% of coastal areas and provided irrigation to 80% of cultivable land. He also mentioned that Bangladesh has developed flood-resistant and salinity-resilient crops to adapt to climate change. In addition, the country has implemented a 100-year Delta Plan to address the challenges posed by climate change. However, this program could cost an additional 2.5 percent of GDP each year, totaling $29.6 billion by 2031. The foreign minister highlighted the prime minister's efforts in implementing various mitigation strategies, resulting in minimal greenhouse gas emissions in Bangladesh. Despite being a developing country, Bangladesh has allocated a significant amount of its own funds to climate initiatives, including establishing two climate funds and undertaking projects such as river dredging and afforestation. Regrettably, the recent arrival of approximately 1.2 million Rohingyas from Myanmar is depleting our forests and causing an environmental crisis.
| 1 |
The former Democratic vice president has dismissed the Republican incumbent's unlikely challenge to his win and named longtime advisor Ron Klain as his White House chief of staff in his first major appointment. The surge in daily coronavirus cases and hospitalizations in the United States has made the pandemic response the focus of the presidential transition following the Nov. 3 election. Trump will remain in office until Biden's inauguration on Jan. 20, with foreign allies congratulating Biden on his victory. The Elders, a group of former world leaders led by ex-Irish President Mary Robinson, have called on Trump to accept defeat to avoid endangering American democracy. The focus is now expected to turn to Biden's selections for Cabinet positions, although his aides have not yet provided much information on when these announcements will be made. Antony Blinken, a diplomat and longtime confidant, is being considered for the roles of secretary of state or national security adviser. The treasury secretary will need to address economic challenges such as a recession and high unemployment, while also tackling issues like wealth inequality and climate change. Klain, who previously served as the "Ebola czar" under President Obama, is expected to play a key role in the Biden administration's response to the current surge in COVID-19 cases. Biden's choice of Klain brings in a trusted and experienced operative who also worked as a top aide to Vice President Al Gore during the Clinton administration. Gore told Reuters that he always found him to be well-informed and his advice was always based on a strong understanding of the policy process, the quality of the arguments, and the political and justice context. The United States broke records on Wednesday with over 142,000 new coronavirus cases and nearly 65,000 hospitalizations, as reported by Reuters. The death toll increased by 1,464, approaching levels seen during the initial wave earlier this year. Biden has a significant lead, having secured enough battleground states to exceed the 270 electoral votes required in the Electoral College system. Additionally, he is ahead in the popular vote by over 5.2 million votes, or 3.4 percentage points, with some states still tabulating ballots. Since major news organizations declared Biden the winner of the election on Saturday, Trump has kept a limited public schedule and has been venting his frustrations on Twitter instead. He has not addressed the increasing number of COVID-19 cases across the country. Trump is focusing on trying to overturn the election results in close states without any evidence of irregularities, despite skepticism from judges. His team is also busy fundraising for legal challenges, with donations under $8,000 going to other purposes such as travel expenses or political campaigns. Democrats have accused Trump of attempting to erode public trust in the US election system and discredit Biden's win. Trump's presidency has been characterized by political rifts and the breaking of democratic traditions. Edison Research has awarded Biden 279 electoral votes, though Arizona and its 11 electoral votes have not been officially called for Biden by the research organization. Similarly, Georgia, a typically Republican state with 16 electoral votes, shows Biden leading by a slim margin of 0.3 percentage points. In order for Trump to stay in office, he would have to win Arizona and Georgia, as well as overturn one or more states that have already been won by Biden before the Electoral College vote on Dec. 14. This is deemed as a highly improbable scenario. Trump expressed on Twitter that he believes they will easily win in Arizona if the total votes are audited. However, Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs stated that the margin of votes was not close enough to trigger a recount. There are still around 25,000 ballots left to be counted, and for Trump to catch up to Biden's lead, he would need to win 65 percent of the remaining votes. Hobbs stated to CNN on Thursday that it is possible for that to occur, although he believes it is unlikely. Georgia has chosen to conduct a manual recount of its votes. Brad Raffensperger, Georgia's Republican secretary of state, mentioned that they do not expect to discover many mistakes from the initial machine count. Raffensperger informed Fox News Channel on Thursday that despite potential dissatisfaction with the outcome, the recount will be precise and provide a clear understanding of the vote totals.
| 1 |
US President Barack Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping joined forces with other countries on Monday to emphasize the importance of reaching an agreement to combat the increase in global temperatures, which is believed to be causing floods, heat waves, and rising sea levels. However, as the leaders departed from Paris, negotiators from 195 nations were left to work on a draft text exceeding 50 pages that still contained numerous disagreements. The primary issue at hand is determining how to secure the necessary funds to support the transition to cleaner energy sources essential for the development of emerging countries without heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Despite the challenges, many delegates viewed the high attendance at the UN climate summit in Paris, which came shortly after terrorist attacks by Islamic State militants, as a sign of optimism following the failed summit in Copenhagen in 2009. French President Francois Hollande expressed optimism about the initial talks, which are scheduled to continue until December. He informed reporters that although the journey started well, it must also successfully reach its destination. He explained that there were two obstacles: either overloading the vessel causing it to sink, or emptying it and having it go nowhere. The technical discussions did not echo the grand language used on Monday. Countries reiterated their stances during negotiations, showing little sign of potential compromise. China's representative Su Wei expressed concern over the lack of dedication from wealthy nations to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and assist developing countries in addressing climate change. Alden Meyer from the Union of Concerned Scientists described the discussions as "back to the nitty gritty," emphasizing that while the opening day was positive, critical issues remain unresolved. Peruvian Environment Minister Manuel Pulgar Vidal stated that the text still offers several options, but everyone has demonstrated their commitment to reaching an agreement. Positive developments included India and France's plan to raise $1 trillion for solar power in impoverished regions, as well as a private sector initiative spearheaded by Bill Gates to generate billions of dollars for new energy research and development. Yvo de Boer, the former UN climate chief in Copenhagen, mentioned how leaders are still affected by the outcomes of the Copenhagen summit. He noted that the presence of many leaders on the opening day of the Paris summit shows their commitment to progress. A potential agreement in Paris would be the strongest yet in terms of binding both rich and poor nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Liz Gallagher from the E3G environmental think-tank also believes that an agreement is more likely after the opening day, but she highlighted the significant gap in climate finance negotiations. Developing nations are calling for wealthier countries to commit to providing more than the current target of $100 billion per year by 2020 to help them access clean energy sources and adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as increased flooding, droughts, and severe storms. There are also disagreements about establishing a long-term plan to phase out fossil fuels. The G7 nations have pledged to decarbonize the global economy by 2100, but China and India argue that they need to continue using coal to reduce poverty and prefer a gradual shift to low-carbon development in this century. However, the pledges made by approximately 170 countries to reduce greenhouse gas emissions after 2020, leading up to the Paris summit, are insufficient to keep global temperatures from rising more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Many people see this as a point at which the planet's climate system could undergo dangerous and potentially catastrophic changes.
| 1 |
Bankrolled by Russian owner Roman Abramovich, Mourinho guided Chelsea to back-to-back league titles in 2005 and 2006 during his previous stint with the English Premier League club. However, the financial landscape has shifted, with Uefa pushing clubs to strive for financial stability or face potential exclusion from competitions like the Champions League. Mourinho emphasized the importance of making sound financial decisions and working closely with the board on financial matters, as well as taking a different approach to managing players on loan and youth development. These sentiments echo Mourinho's recent subdued press conference, where he appeared to distance himself from the bold persona he displayed upon arriving in London in 2004. Chelsea recently signed 22-year-old winger Andre Schuerrle from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of 18 million pounds ($28.22 million), marking their first acquisition since Mourinho's return. Mourinho stressed the significance of qualifying for the Champions League, citing its importance for player development, the club's stability, the fan base, and adherence to Financial Fair Play regulations.
| 1 |
On Tuesday, Shahana Hanif, a former City Council employee, made history by winning her election in a Brooklyn district that includes Park Slope, Kensington, and parts of central Brooklyn. Hanif, who is Bangladeshi American, became the first Muslim woman ever elected to the Council, despite the fact that New York City has a large Muslim population. She was one of two South Asian candidates to make history with their wins; the other, Shekar Krishnan, won in a district in Queens. Hanif expressed her humility and pride in being the first Muslim woman and the first woman of any faith to represent District 39. She mentioned volunteers and support from the community and progressive organizations, such as the Working Families Party. She expressed the goal of creating a city that is anti-racist and feminist, one that protects its most vulnerable residents, provides equal education, focuses on local climate solutions driven by communities, and ensures that immigrant neighbors feel safe and at home. She emphasized the importance of continued participation in this work even after the election. Next year, the City Council will have its first openly gay Black women members, with Kristin Richardson Jordan winning in Harlem and Crystal Hudson in a Brooklyn district covering Prospect Heights, Crown Heights, Fort Greene, Clinton Hill, and Bedford-Stuyvesant. Several other LGBTQ candidates, including Tiffany Cabán in Queens, also won their races. Chi Ossé in Brooklyn and Erik Bottcher in Manhattan both ran unopposed in their respective races. Lynn Schulman was predicted to secure a seat in Queens. These candidates are part of a larger trend in the New York City Council, which is projected to be almost as diverse as the city itself next year. Over 24 women are expected to hold a majority of the Council's seats for the first time in history.
| 1 |
President Barack Obama urged the world to take immediate action against global warming during a U.N. summit, but did not present any new ideas to revive discussions on a climate pact. Chinese President Hu Jintau also promised to reduce his country's carbon intensity. Obama emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that future generations could face irreversible consequences if bold and swift action is not taken together. Time is running out to turn the tide on this issue. Activists were hopeful that the United States and China would provide a boost of energy, just 2-1/2 months before representatives from 190 nations gathered in Copenhagen with the goal of finalizing a deal to combat climate change. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who organized the meeting, expressed concern that the negotiations were progressing too slowly. Ban emphasized that failing to reach a comprehensive agreement in Copenhagen would be morally unacceptable, economically short-sighted, and politically unwise. He stressed the importance of recognizing the interconnectedness of global issues, stating that the crises of the past year have shown that our destinies are linked. Negotiations leading up to the December 7-18 meeting have created disagreements between developed and developing countries regarding the distribution of emissions reductions. Less affluent nations are urging wealthier countries to provide significant financial assistance annually to help them deal with the effects of global warming. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso warned that the talks are close to a standstill and could collapse in a hostile manner. President Obama and President Hu, who are set to have a private meeting following the summit, may be able to help resolve the deadlock. If China were to take bold steps to limit its emissions, even if not setting a specific cap, it could ease tensions in Washington where many lawmakers are hesitant to commit to U.S. emission reductions without proof of action from Beijing. Obama's efforts to decrease U.S. emissions through legislative actions have been less prominent compared to his focus on healthcare reform. However, he mentioned in his speech that in the past eight months, the United States has made unprecedented progress in reducing carbon pollution.
| 1 |
Even though Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has offered his congratulations to Trump on his election and pledged to collaborate with him to strengthen trade and international security, the media has described the win as a 'shocking upset'. A commentator in the Globe and Mail, a prominent Toronto newspaper, highlighted the sudden disruption in Canada-US relations caused by the US election results. The focus of Trump's campaign on tightening borders in various aspects such as trade, immigration, and security has raised concerns for Canada, which heavily relies on cross-border dealings. The commentator mentioned that Canada, as the biggest trade partner of the US, is facing uncertainty due to Donald Trump's promises to dismantle trade agreements that Canada has worked hard to secure. Trump's threat to tear up NAFTA could severely impact the crucial trade links between the two countries, as Canada exports more than 75 percent of its goods and services to the US. Canada shares approximately 4,000 miles of territorial boundary with America, excluding Alaska. If NAFTA were to end, this would have negative consequences for the Canadian economy. During his campaign, Trump focused on creating bigger borders, which could result in slower traffic and trade, something that Canada cannot afford. Trump stated that he would bring jobs back to various states in America and prevent companies from moving to other countries without facing consequences. He also criticized NAFTA, calling it a disaster, and suggested renegotiating or potentially breaking the agreement. Some economists and analysts believe that while protectionist rhetoric is common during US elections, the reality of governing may be different. In addition to questioning NAFTA, Trump has also raised concerns about NATO, suggesting that allies should contribute more for US protection. Canadian officials are preparing for potential challenges as the impact of the election results is felt south of the border. Experts agree that things may not be the same as before, and it's uncertain how Trump's 'America First' policy will affect Canada's relationship with the US in various areas such as economics, trade, environment, security, defense, and international relations. Prime Minister Trudeau is moving forward with a climate-change policy aimed at reducing greenhouse-gas emissions, but with Trump in power, he may face challenges in promoting his own climate-change policies in Canada. During the election campaign, Trudeau refrained from criticizing Trump, likely to benefit Canada's relationship with the US. While there are other areas of cooperation such as cross-border security arrangements and NORAD, the military air defence alliance, the protectionist stance of the 'America First' US president may pose obstacles for Trudeau in advancing the Canadian agenda. Is Trump emerging as a new dilemma for the Canadian PM? It will require some time before we receive the solution.
| 1 |
Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali informed Bangladesh journalists at around 6.30pm that they would reconvene after the official dinner, which is a first in SAARC foreign ministers-level meetings. He mentioned that efforts were being made to sign an energy cooperation deal, while ruling out the signing of two other deals related to road and railway connectivity due to a country, believed to be Pakistan, not agreeing. Despite the signing not guaranteeing implementation, it would symbolize a common goal of connectivity in the summit themed on ‘Deeper Integration for Peace and Prosperity’. The meeting also discussed various regional projects like trade, economy, communications, energy, poverty reduction, climate change, combating terrorism, education and culture, and regional cooperation, stressing on timely implementation. Bangladesh emphasized the importance of regional projects being effective and approved standing committee proposals. Additionally, they launched research papers, action frameworks, and publications focusing on poverty alleviation, sanitation, nutrition, and the South Asian Economic Union. The ministers instructed the SAARC Secretariat to organize the summit at a specific time and requested member states to submit lists for sensitive list reduction under SAFTA. Bangladesh also requested investments in tourism and highlighted the need for innovative projects on energy and communications. The ministers agreed on various initiatives such as publishing a development report biennially, making the SAARC food bank operational, and emphasizing the importance of the South Asian University. The meeting also recognized the South Asian Women Development Forum as a SAARC body and decided to continue the moratorium on new SAARC observers.
| 1 |
The top diplomats of Pakistan and India met in Islamabad on Thursday and expressed their joint commitment to combat militant extremism. They hinted at the possibility of more extensive discussions in the future. This was the second meeting in four months between Foreign Secretaries Salman Bashir and Nirupama Rao of Pakistan and India, respectively. Their previous meeting in New Delhi was the first official talks since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, but those talks were deemed unproductive. However, both sides described the recent talks as being marked by cordiality, sincerity, and earnestness, and suggested that they may lead to a more comprehensive dialogue, indicating a potential thaw in relations. Rao emphasized the need for cooperation to address the threat of terrorism and prevent it from hindering the improvement of relations between the two countries. The issue of security is a top concern for India when it comes to Pakistan, as New Delhi accuses Islamabad of supporting militant groups in an effort to gain control of Kashmir and counter Indian influence in Afghanistan. India has made it clear that addressing militant groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), held responsible for the Mumbai attack that claimed 166 lives, is a prerequisite for resuming talks on various disputes. Pakistan, however, has been hesitant to take action and has not made any significant moves against LeT's leader, Hafiz Saeed, who remains at large. There are indications that India may be considering a more lenient stance on future talks. She mentioned that there was a significant amount of introspection happening, with the focus being on the future rather than the past. Pakistan was pleased with India's seemingly more positive approach. Bashir expressed optimism and confidence about the potential for a positive outcome at the ministerial level and the overall relationship between the two countries. Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani of Pakistan and Prime Minister Monmohan Singh of India met in Bhutan in April during a regional summit, aiming to resume discussions between the two nuclear-armed adversaries. The Mumbai attack caused a strain in relations between the two countries, which has also impacted efforts to bring peace to Afghanistan. Both prime ministers have instructed their foreign ministers and secretaries to meet quickly in order to rebuild trust and continue the dialogue. Pakistani Foreign Minister Qureshi noted that the atmosphere of the talks has improved and both sides are now meeting more frequently than before, which was unexpected. The recent meeting was a positive move and had the right attitude. However, there are concerns that domestic issues may hinder progress. There is a fear that if there is another militant attack in India, the government may be pressured to end discussions. India's Intelligence Bureau issued a warning about a possible attack, with reports suggesting it could be aimed at disrupting talks. Onkar Kedia, a spokesperson for the Home Ministry, confirmed to Reuters over the phone that the Intelligence Bureau has issued a terror alert.
| 1 |
World business leaders praised President George W. Bush for recognizing climate change as a significant issue and urged for long-term emissions standards to aid in their planning. Despite Bush's refusal to endorse mandatory limits on carbon emissions in his State of the Union speech, companies like General Electric Co. have advocated for such regulations. Instead, Bush supported the development of new technologies to reduce gasoline consumption in the U.S. Corporate executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos welcomed the White House's acknowledgment of alternative energies like ethanol, wind, solar, and nuclear power, but urged for stricter U.S. emissions standards to be implemented. Duke Energy CEO James Rogers emphasized the importance of future regulations in investment decisions, as power plants built today will be in use for the next 50 years. Rogers and Alcoa CEO Alain Belda both emphasized the importance of being proactive and prepared for new regulations, with Belda advocating for a unified climate change agenda in the United States to reduce risks for companies investing in emissions-cutting technologies. Belda also highlighted the potential for US leadership to influence other countries to strengthen their emissions regulations. In Japan, Yvo de Boer, the head of the United Nations Climate Secretariat, viewed Bush's environmental messages as a positive sign that the U.S. is changing its stance on climate issues. Former German environment minister Juergen Trittin also saw potential for improved transatlantic cooperation in the fight against climate change. However, some critics felt that the speech was inadequate, with renewable energy expert Sven Teske noting that it lacked a comprehensive plan and real policy shift. Diane Wittenberg of the California Climate Registry expressed disappointment in Bush's speech. "He began at a disadvantage and never caught up," she said, pointing out that a majority of climate change leadership in the United States has come from state governments and the private sector, who are working towards influencing future environmental policies in their favor. "Businesses realize that climate change will create new winners and losers in the business world, and they want to be among the winners," she explained. A recent survey by PricewaterhouseCoopers at Davos revealed that 40 percent of 1,100 global CEOs are worried about the risks posed by climate change, with only 18 percent of U.S. CEOs sharing this concern. Mark Spelman, head of European strategy at Accenture, mentioned that the increased focus on environmental issues by corporations is partly a PR move to attract environmentally conscious consumers, but also reflects long-term considerations about future energy costs. "Forward-thinking CEOs can anticipate that the cost of carbon will rise in the future, impacting long-term profitability, so staying ahead of the curve will benefit the company," Spelman added. Some individuals view the shift towards a new clean or low-carbon economy as a chance for commercial success. Citigroup has identified 74 companies that could profit from this transition, such as clean energy companies, water utilities, and car manufacturers.
| 1 |
An increase in anti-Western rhetoric is unlikely to deter foreign investors from Libya, as Muammar Gaddafi has emphasized that his political beliefs will not hinder economic reform. Gaddafi recently criticized Western corporate "colonialism" during speeches commemorating the 30th anniversary of his Jamahiriyah system, which prohibits elections and political parties. These remarks may be an attempt to appease hardline advisors concerned about potential marginalization due to economic liberalization, as well as express Libya's dissatisfaction with what they perceive as inadequate recognition from the West for giving up their weapons of mass destruction program in 2003. However, analysts believe that while Gaddafi's sentiments are sincere, they will not jeopardize the pro-business reforms he has endorsed in the OPEC member country known for its oil and gas exports. Gaddafi has consistently expressed his disdain for the pro-Western world economic order, but acknowledges that Libya must collaborate with it to avoid economic ruin. Analyst Geoff Porter believes Gaddafi's speeches are mainly intended for a domestic audience, as oil companies continue to operate without being deterred by his rhetoric. Monica Enfield of PFC Energy consultants views Gaddafi's behavior as typical of his eccentricity. Western companies may be hesitant due to concerns raised by Libyan leader Gaddafi about the possibility of them installing a puppet ruler. Gaddafi warned against any attempts to colonize Libya, stating that those who try will face consequences. Gaddafi suggested that American companies would be willing to support a ruler who promises them a large share of oil revenues. "Why not?" Analysts suggest that they will provide him with millions of dollars in order to make billions. The speeches seem to be directed towards members of powerful revolutionary committees who are concerned about their future in a more globally connected Libya. The purpose of the committees, made up of supporters of Gaddafi, is to promote participation in government congresses and uphold loyalty to his ideology. Some members of these committees have benefited financially from their connections to the state, leading them to view a more transparent business environment as a potential challenge. "He is appealing to the group of people who have been with him from the beginning," explained Mansour el-Kikhia, a Libyan political expert at the University of Texas. "This group is worried that any changes in his stance could impact them, so he needs to reassure them that they are still important." Ashour Shamis, a long-time Libyan commentator based in the UK, suggested that Gaddafi's statements should be viewed within the larger debate between those who support and oppose economic reform. "Both sides are uncertain about where they stand with him." He is attempting to reassure the committees by suggesting that there may be changes in the future, but they will not impact the main part of the system. Some believe that the increasing business connections with the West show that the reformists are gaining support. A group of leading companies, led by the US-Libya Business Association, traveled to Tripoli in December 2006 and were informed about $25 billion worth of investment opportunities. "We were very impressed with the positive and productive discussions we had with the government," stated David Goldwyn, the director of the association. In February, Ahmed Fituri, who heads the Americas department at Libya's foreign ministry, became the highest-ranking official to visit Washington since the announcement in 2003. Rex Tillerson, the chairman of Exxon Mobil, the world's largest publicly listed oil company, visited Tripoli in February to participate in the signing of an energy exploration deal. Claire Spencer from the Royal Institute of International Affairs suggested that the speeches made during the visit were a way to show that Libya still needs to be courted and is still important. She mentioned that Libya may feel ignored since the 2003 weapons incident, suspecting that the US may think it has already dealt with Libya. Spencer also noted that Libya may be using more extreme rhetoric to gain attention, especially compared to Iran and Venezuela. In 2004, the US lifted a trade embargo on Libya that had been in place since 1986, and diplomatic relations were restored in 2006. The two parties have disagreed about the payments made by Libya to the families of those who died in the 1988 bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Scotland. The bomb, which was connected to Libyan agents, resulted in the deaths of 270 individuals. Some of the victims' family members claim that Tripoli has not fulfilled its obligations to make full restitution payments.
| 1 |
Rescuers are searching for over 800 individuals who went missing in the southern Philippines due to flash floods and landslides. The devastating natural disasters resulted in the deaths of more than 650 people in areas that were not adequately prepared for such storms. Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities on Mindanao island were severely affected when Typhoon Washi hit the region while residents were asleep, causing water and mud to inundate villages and destroy mountainsides. The Philippine National Red Cross reported that 652 people lost their lives in eight provinces in southern Mindanao, with over 800 individuals still missing. Gwendolyn Pang, secretary-general of the PNRC, mentioned that their office received numerous requests for assistance in locating missing family members, and they are working with local authorities, the military, police, and other relief organizations to coordinate search efforts. Flooding destroyed entire houses with families inside in numerous coastal villages in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. Mayor Vicente Emano of Cagayan de Oro expressed that this was an unprecedented event for their city, and attributed the lack of warning to officials in the area. However, the state disaster agency claimed that sufficient warnings had been issued to officials and residents three days prior to the typhoon hitting land on Friday. Authorities were faced with the difficult task of managing the large number of bodies that were being uncovered, prompting soldiers to construct coffins. Some bodies were piled on top of each other in mortuaries that were understaffed and overwhelmed by the number of dead. Vice President Jejomar Binay witnessed bloated bodies of women and children during his visit to the hardest-hit areas in Cagayan de Oro. Binay provided food supplies and ordered the relocation of families living in risky areas. Brigadier General Roland Amarille, leading an army task force in Iligan, mentioned that soldiers were working to recover bodies and construct coffins. Amarille expressed the need for body bags and lime to handle the large number of corpses, in order to prevent the spread of disease. He stated that local mortuaries are currently overwhelmed with bodies and are urging people to bury the deceased promptly due to the excess number of bodies, some even being stored in hallways. The majority of the casualties were from a slum area on an island between two rivers in Iligan, where approximately 70% of the houses were swept into the sea. Mindanao island, located in the Philippines, is typically not affected by the average 20 typhoons that hit the country annually, making this situation particularly challenging. Pang emphasized the need to educate people about the changing climate in order to address these challenges. The amount of rain that usually falls in one month occurred in just one day. A cargo ship rescued Carmelita Pulosan and eight others after their house was swept away by floodwaters during a typhoon in the central Visayas region and the south and east of Luzon. Carmelita Pulosan described the experience as a sudden rush of water followed by a loud noise. "We ended up in the river and were carried out to sea by the strong current," Pulosan, who is from Cagayan de Oro, informed Reuters. She expressed gratitude towards God for saving her family, as the current was very powerful. Pulosan also mentioned that in their village, only one 3-storey building remained standing. Red Cross official Pang stated that both officials and residents were caught off guard by the unexpectedly large amount of water flowing down from the mountains into the river systems, as the area was not typically affected by typhoons. She mentioned that Cagayan de Oro had not seen significant flooding since 2009, with minimal damage and no casualties. Pang noted that upon returning to their villages, many people discovered their homes had been destroyed. U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton expressed readiness to assist the Philippines, a key ally of the United States. Additionally, a Chinese embassy official announced a donation of $10,000 to support relief efforts. Washi, which has been weakened to a tropical storm with winds reaching speeds of up to 80 km per hour (50 miles per hour), was located approximately 60 km (40 miles) west of Puerto Princesa in the southwest. The storm is forecasted to exit Philippine waters by late Sunday.
| 1 |
An African Union summit began with controversy as Sudan insisted on assuming the chairmanship despite criticism of the ongoing violence in Darfur. Despite calls from rights organizations and Western governments to reject Sudan due to human rights abuses in Darfur, Sudan remained determined to take on the role. Sudanese Foreign Minister Lam Akol expressed confidence that AU leaders would not be swayed by external pressure and would uphold their decision to give Sudan the chairmanship, which was promised a year ago despite concerns over the violence in Darfur. Experts estimate that the conflict in Darfur has resulted in the deaths of 200,000 people and the displacement of 2.5 million. Critics argue that rather than decreasing, the violence in the last year has actually intensified, with government-supported Arab militias responsible for the deaths of thousands. Despite repeated requests, Bashir has refused to allow UN peacekeepers to be deployed in order to support the African Union military mission of 7,000 soldiers and monitors. During the summit, the AU's top diplomat, Alpha Oumar Konare, accused Sudan of targeting civilians in Darfur and urged the government to cease their attacks and work towards peace. Amnesty International warned that the AU would lose credibility if Bashir was appointed as chairman while human rights violations continued in Sudan's Western region. Chad has threatened to leave the African Union if Sudan's President Bashir becomes the chair, due to strained relations from the Darfur conflict. Egyptian Foreign Minister believes Sudan should get the chair unless the summit decides otherwise, but expects a struggle. Nigerian President believes finding a solution for the chairmanship will be easier this year compared to last year. Diplomats have not yet made a decision, but they are working to promote Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as an alternative to Bashir. Western governments are advocating for Kikwete. British Africa minister David Triesman emphasized the importance of the African Union's success in international relations and diplomacy, urging them to carefully consider their decisions. A committee of seven "wise men", including Obasanjo, will be meeting on Monday to discuss the Sudan issue and will then present recommendations to the full summit, according to delegates. The meeting in Addis Ababa will also address other issues such as raising a peacekeeping force for Somalia, unrest in Guinea, climate change, and the AU military mission in Darfur. However, diplomats believe that the focus will mainly be on Sudan, as opposition to the country is growing among AU governments. One African delegate mentioned that it is difficult to expect a country dealing with internal conflict to address all the other issues on the continent, but the leaders are aware of this and are working towards finding a solution.
| 1 |
Australia's two main political parties are trying to win over independent lawmakers following an inconclusive election that resulted in the country's first hung parliament since 1940. Financial markets are expected to react negatively when trading resumes on Monday, with analysts predicting a drop in the Australian dollar and shares. The vote count is expected to continue for several days, with neither the Labor party nor the opposition able to secure a majority. Economist Craig James of Commsec warned that the uncertainty could have a significant impact on the financial markets, potentially leading to a decrease in the Australian dollar. With 78 percent of votes counted, a hung parliament is the most likely outcome, with two potential scenarios for a minority government involving either a conservative administration supported by rural independents or a Labor government supported by Green or environmentally conscious MPs. The latter option is causing concern among investors, especially after Prime Minister Julia Gillard expressed willingness to discuss policies with this diverse group of lawmakers during early talks on Sunday. Gillard stated that she aims to negotiate in a sincere manner to create a successful government formation agreement. She emphasized that her Labor party is more capable of providing a steady government, pointing out their higher number of votes compared to the conservatives. In a similar vein, Conservative leader Tony Abbott also engaged with some crossbench MPs on Sunday. He mentioned having brief conversations with the three current independents and expressed his intention to approach discussions pragmatically while staying within the policy framework discussed during the election. Abbott made these remarks to reporters in Sydney. Lawmakers from the independent and Green parties elected in the recent election have a variety of priorities. The Greens support higher income and company taxes, while the independents focus on more transparent government and reducing banana imports. The Greens, likely to hold the balance of power in the Senate, will advocate for action on climate change, as Labor has delayed their emissions trading scheme until 2012 and conservatives are against a carbon price. Senator Bob Brown, leader of the Greens, believes it is crucial to take action on climate change, proposing an interim fixed carbon price of A$20 a tonne. Treasurer Wayne Swan reassured markets that the current Labor caretaker government will provide stability until a new government is formed. He said that Australia's economy is one of the strongest in the world, with a stable financial system and top-notch regulators who have effectively served both political parties. UBS chief strategist David Cassidy noted that investors would prefer a minority conservative government over a Labor-Green coalition, as conservative leader Abbott has promised to eliminate Labor's proposed 30 percent mining tax. This tax has impacted mining stocks like BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto, as well as the Australian dollar. Cassidy predicted moderate selling due to the uncertainty, stating that markets would be uneasy with a Labor government supported by the Greens. Greens leader Brown met with Gillard, who removed former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in a party coup in June, for initial discussions on Sunday. Brown later stated that no agreements were made, no policies were talked about, and no demands were presented. He expressed readiness to also meet with Abbott, emphasizing their track record of responsible collaboration with larger parties for positive outcomes in positions of balance of power. Election analysts predicted that both Gillard's Labor party and the opposition conservatives would likely not have enough seats to govern independently, necessitating the support of four independents and a Green MP. One of these independent candidates, Andrew Wilkie, who leans towards the Green and center-left ideologies, hinted at receiving a call from Gillard but did not disclose which major party he would support. Wilkie mentioned being open-minded and willing to support the party that could ensure a stable and ethical government. Another independent, Bob Katter, a unique individual from the outback who wears a stetson hat, stated that he would back the political party that he believed would prioritize the needs of rural communities and uphold their rights to engage in activities like fishing, camping, hunting, and shooting. Independent Tony Windsor expressed his willingness to engage in discussions with any party once the final election results were announced, as reported by local media. Some of these independent candidates hold protectionist beliefs and openly voice their concerns about Chinese investment in Australian resources.
| 1 |
Trump's victory in the election may lead to the lifting or easing of Western sanctions on Moscow, which were put in place after Russia's annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in Ukraine. This could help boost Russia's economy and potentially aid Putin in winning another presidential term in 2018. According to Charles Robertson, the likelihood of sanctions being lifted has increased, which would be beneficial for Russia's investment climate. Russia's rouble currency and stocks saw an increase after Trump won the election, while Ukraine's dollar-denominated bonds dropped to multi-month lows due to concerns about how a Trump presidency would affect the country. The Kremlin had expected strained relations with a Clinton presidency, as Putin had accused her of inciting protests against him. In contrast, Trump was portrayed more positively, with Putin calling him "very talented" and Kremlin-backed media highlighting his political independence. Despite skepticism among most people in Moscow, a small group of Trump-supporting nationalists at a bar in the city had believed the Republican candidate would win. When he did win, Russia's parliament cheered and Putin expressed his willingness to restore relations with Washington. State TV showed a Russian lookalike of Trump mocking a defeated Clinton, and the head of RT said she would drive around Moscow with a US flag in celebration. However, there was a realization that Trump's promises may not all come to fruition and that tensions between Russia and the US would likely persist, despite any friendly gestures between Trump and Putin. Additionally, Congress may limit Trump's efforts to ease sanctions on Russia due to its disapproval of Kremlin actions. Executives from Western companies believe that the main barrier to making deals with Russia is not the current sanctions themselves, but rather the fear of additional sanctions being imposed and the strict enforcement of existing ones. If the Trump administration were to indicate a more relaxed approach, investments could potentially resume despite the sanctions remaining in place. A more lenient stance from the US could also undermine the resolve of European sanctions. Some European countries are already finding ways to bypass the sanctions, while others are calling for a discussion on moving forward. There are also business groups in countries like Germany that are lobbying against the sanctions. Up until now, the US has played a role in strengthening European determination. Many European banks opted out of participating in Russia's Eurobond placement in May this year due to concerns about upsetting US financial regulators. Political analyst Masha Lipman noted that America has been instrumental in keeping Europe united on sanctions against Russia. With Donald Trump as President, there may be potential changes that could benefit Russia. Putin is eager to have sanctions lifted as they could impact his chances for re-election. Russia's central bank is predicting economic growth of up to 1 percent next year, which is lower than what Russian households are accustomed to. Following previous economic downturns, foreign lending and investment have played a significant role in driving recoveries. There are indications that the economy's struggles are diminishing support for Putin, a trend expected to continue in the next 18 months leading up to the Russian presidential election. Observers of the Kremlin anticipate that even with a potentially less hostile relationship with the US under Trump's presidency, any agreement would require tough negotiations from both sides. Russia is pushing for global acknowledgment of Crimea, a region of Ukraine now under Russian control, a goal that has been achieved by only a few nations thus far. Additionally, Russia is pressing Kiev to take more action in implementing a peace agreement for eastern Ukraine, where pro-Russian separatists are dominant. In Syria, Russia is assisting President Bashar al-Assad in a conflict through air strikes and military support. Russia is urging the West to abandon efforts to change the Syrian government, stop aiding hardline Islamists, and cease discussing potential no-fly zones. There is a possibility of a trade-off, where Russia may make concessions on the Syrian issue in exchange for the United States giving ground on Ukraine and sanctions. According to Georgy Bovt, editor of Russkiy Mir magazine, Russia's main focus is on Ukraine, and if the US indicates it does not prioritize Ukraine, it will be easier for Russia to negotiate a deal on Syria. I believe that Russia will be more willing to compromise on Assad because Ukraine holds greater importance for Russia. The media has often compared and contrasted Putin and Trump, noting their similar tough talking styles. Some Russian politicians have suggested that Putin and Trump could develop a close working relationship similar to the one Putin had with former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi. Trump has even mentioned the possibility of meeting Putin before his inauguration, although Putin's spokesman has stated that there are no current plans for such a meeting. Individuals who are familiar with the leadership styles of both men cautioned that they were sensitive to criticism. Andrey Kortunov, who is the director general of the Russian International Affairs Council, a think-tank closely linked to the Foreign Ministry, stated to Reuters that the Kremlin was concerned about Trump being an untested politician. Kortunov described Trump as unpredictable and a potential liability. Additionally, there were worries that both Putin and Trump shared similar macho characteristics, according to Sergei Markov, a Kremlin-affiliated analyst and former pro-Putin lawmaker. "They could attempt to assess each other. We cannot allow that to occur."
| 1 |
Italy's political deadlock and the possibility of extended political uncertainty have raised concerns throughout Europe. This comes at a time when the Cyprus bank deposit standoff reignited fears of a resurgence of the euro zone debt crisis. Pier Luigi Bersani, leader of the center-left, holds the largest bloc in parliament but lacks the ability to govern without support from other parties. However, there is no indication of any potential agreement with either Silvio Berlusconi's center-right alliance or Beppe Grillo's anti-establishment 5-Star Movement. If no compromise can be reached among the divided parties, Italy may face a period under a caretaker government before heading back to the polls, potentially as early as June. Bersani is proposing a limited set of reforms focused on fighting corruption and creating jobs in hopes of gaining support from the 5-Star Movement. Italy, as the euro zone's third-largest economy, is in no position to endure a prolonged political crisis given its current economic struggles. The crisis seems to have only deepened animosities between parties rather than fostering cooperation like when Mario Monti took over from Berlusconi in 2011. Grillo has vowed not to support a government led by any other party, while Berlusconi has made demands regarding the appointment of the next president, leading to further tensions among the parties.
| 1 |
Hogir Fathi, a 24-year-old fighter in the peshmerga forces of autonomous Kurdistan, was killed by a bomb while on the frontline against Islamist militants. His father, Mehdi, also a peshmerga fighter who battled Saddam Hussein's army, expressed pride in his son's martyrdom and emphasized the importance of sacrificing for an independent Kurdistan. The Kurds, who have long been denied a state of their own, are now closer to achieving that dream as the chaos in Iraq raises the possibility of the country being partitioned. The Kurds have been expanding their territory, including the city of Kirkuk, which they claim as their national capital. Despite calls for secession and a referendum on independence, economic and external pressures may prevent Kurdish leaders from making a final break in the near future. Kurdistan Vice President Kosrat Rasul Ali, a veteran peshmerga commander, stated that while all Kurdish people support the idea of independence, the leadership should carefully consider whether the timing is appropriate. He emphasized that if the political climate is not conducive, it may be wise to wait several years to avoid any misadventures. Several other leaders echoed this caution. The threat of secession has historically benefited the Kurds in negotiations with Shi'ites and Sunnis in post-Saddam politics. The five million Iraqi Kurds, who primarily identify by their language and culture rather than their Sunni Muslim religion, already have significant autonomy, including their own armed forces and oil exports. Hostility from Turkey, which has a history of fighting Kurdish revolts, may no longer be a major obstacle to Kurdish independence. Iran, however, poses a more significant challenge, as it supports Shia parties in Baghdad who view Kurdish secession as an attempt to unfairly claim Iraq's wealth. Both Iran and Turkey have backed different factions within Iraqi Kurdistan, leading to tensions within Kurdish politics that impact attitudes towards independence. The Kurdistan Democratic Party (KDP) and the Patriotic Union of Kurdistan (PUK) each control separate peshmerga units and territories within Iraqi Kurdistan, with the KDP leaning towards Turkey and the PUK closer to Iran. A senior figure in the PUK warned that failure to maintain a balanced relationship between Iran and Turkey could have negative consequences. The KDP was accused by an Iranian official of being part of a Sunni conspiracy with Turkey to support ISIS. The US is pressuring the Kurds not to break away and to join a coalition with Shi'ites and Sunnis in Baghdad. Despite some Kurds resenting this policy, many are willing to cooperate to gain concessions in negotiations. The Kurds are facing economic challenges due to reduced federal budget spending and their unilateral oil exports. Gaining control of Kirkuk could improve their economic situation, but it may take time. The idea of independence is still important to many Kurds, even if it means sacrifices. A practical Kurdish leadership may choose to wait and observe how Iraq's other factions and their international supporters respond to the Islamist attack. According to a Western diplomat who closely monitors Iraqi politics, the Kurds currently have a strong advantage. Pursuing independence could result in more drawbacks than benefits.
| 1 |
Democratic lawmaker Gary Ackerman stated that while the Obama administration is currently dealing with issues in Afghanistan, the real problem lies in Pakistan, a nuclear-armed country. In order to defeat al Qaeda, President Obama must focus on Pakistan and its border with Afghanistan, which he referred to as the "epicenter" of violent extremism. Ackerman questioned the value of risking lives in a region that may not hold much significance on its own. Ex-CIA analyst Bruce Riedel emphasized the challenge of getting Islamabad to work together in combating extremists in Pakistan's complicated political environment. The government of President Asif Ali Zardari is in a fragile state, with public opinion remaining strongly against the United States, although less so than during the Bush administration. Increased pressure from the US poses a risk to Zardari's already precarious position, especially with the army and police. According to Riedel from the Brookings Institution, changing Pakistan's strategic behavior is a difficult task that will not happen quickly. The Pakistanis are feeling anxious about the actions of the United States in Afghanistan. They are conflicted about not wanting a surge of 30,000 more U.S. forces across the border but also fearing a quick withdrawal from Washington which could further destabilize the region. According to Robert M. Hathaway, director of the Asia program at the Wilson Center, Pakistanis are hesitant to support America and NATO's efforts in Afghanistan. Congress has been urging the Obama administration to put more pressure on Pakistan, as mentioned by Democratic Senator John Kerry during a hearing. The presence of al Qaeda in Pakistan, its ties to the Taliban in Afghanistan, and the risks of a volatile, nuclear-armed Pakistan are driving the U.S. mission. Senior U.S. officials, such as national security adviser James Jones, have visited Pakistan recently to discuss the new Afghan strategy and urge Islamabad to take more action. Obama has provided Zardari with various incentives, such as improved intelligence sharing and military cooperation. It is anticipated that there will be an increase in CIA-operated drone attacks on suspected al Qaeda and Taliban targets as part of the new strategy. There have been approximately 50 drone strikes in the northwestern border regions this year, resulting in the deaths of around 415 individuals, including numerous foreign militants. These attacks have stirred local controversy. Since 2001, the United States has given over $10 billion in military aid to Pakistan, with additional funds being allocated in recent months. Much of this aid is discreet due to political sensitivities and concerns regarding India's reaction. The Pakistani government has requested more F-16 fighter jets, as well as jets capable of nighttime operations, as their current fleet is primarily suited for daytime use. During the strategic review, Vice President Joe Biden advocated for a greater focus on Pakistan, including discussions about the risks of increasing "unilateral operations" within the country. Most experts view such actions as highly risky, with limited potential success. Nick Schmidle, a fellow at the New America Foundation, warns that any radical, independent military actions, like sending in special forces, could further alienate pro-Western factions in Pakistan. He believes that despite efforts to build goodwill, the longstanding lack of trust between the United States and Pakistan cannot easily be overcome. For example, a proposed $7.5 billion non-military aid package from the US has been met with skepticism, particularly from the Pakistani army due to perceived conditions attached to the aid. Democratic Senator Robert Menendez of New Jersey stated that it appears that they are not interested in having a strategic partnership. They are more interested in receiving financial benefits and acquiring equipment, rather than investing in a relationship that could be costly for them.
| 1 |
A senior State Department official announced that industrialized nations are increasing their efforts to assist countries affected by the Arab Spring in rebuilding their economies. The focus is on providing more access to international credit markets, investment, and trade. The recent G8 leaders' summit highlighted the need to stabilize the transition economies of Egypt, Libya, Jordan, Morocco, and Tunisia, alongside discussions about the economic crisis in the euro zone. The Deauville Partnership, established last year by the G8, involves global lenders like the IMF and World Bank to support these countries following the uprisings. While there have been political and economic improvements in these nations since the Arab Spring, financial challenges remain, and there is a need to increase exports and attract foreign investment. The meeting aimed to show political support for these countries and emphasize the importance of ongoing efforts to aid in their development. "Although there are changes happening, the countries still face significant financial challenges and require resources. The economic weaknesses in their major Mediterranean markets due to the euro zone crisis are not beneficial for them," he explained. The G8 has decided to establish a capital markets access initiative to assist the five countries in accessing international capital markets with reasonable financing terms to meet their financial requirements and enable government enterprises to invest in projects that generate employment opportunities. Additionally, G8 donors have agreed to establish a transition fund to enhance government institutions crucial for economic development. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development is also working to amend its charter in order to establish a $4 billion special fund to invest in the region over the next three years, Hormats mentioned." He mentioned that they hope to complete the plans within the next month or by September at the latest. Hormats explained that additional meetings related to the Deauville Partnership will occur at various summits and conferences in the coming months. He also mentioned that he will be traveling to Paris and Tunis to promote more investment and trade opportunities. Despite budget limitations, the United States can provide support through various agencies. The focus of G8 efforts is on increasing transparency and accountability in the countries to improve the business environment and facilitate the return of stolen assets through the Stolen Asset Recovery Initiative. The political unrest in the Middle East and North Africa has led to a decrease in economic growth and caused governments to spend large amounts of money to create jobs and combat rising costs in order to prevent further protests. Additionally, countries in the region have been negatively affected by the debt crisis in the euro zone, resulting in global economic uncertainty and a decline in demand. Tourism, which is a significant source of income for Tunisia and Egypt, has suffered, and worker remittances have decreased significantly. Egypt is currently negotiating a $3.2 billion loan with the IMF, although experts estimate the country's financial needs to be around $15 billion. The IMF has stated that it could provide $35 billion to assist emerging Arab democracies.
| 1 |
A watchdog body was established by the parliamentary standing committee on the environment ministry to oversee the spending of Tk 400 crore allocated by the government to address the impacts of climate change. The five-member sub-committee, led by Md Ekabbar Hossain MP, includes Sohrab Ali Sana, Manaranjan Sheel Gopal, Md Golam Sabur, and Giasuddin Ahmed. Abdul Momin Talukder, the chairman of the standing committee, stated that Tk 300 crore will be utilized by various ministries, while the remaining funds will be distributed among non-governmental organizations in the country. Talukder also mentioned that more than 5000 NGOs have applied for climate funds under this program. Talukder explained that the sub-committee's main focus is on overseeing the spending of money by NGOs, rather than monitoring the expenses of ministerial projects. He also stated that the sub-committee will submit its initial report within two months. Furthermore, Talukder mentioned that the standing committee had asked the home ministry to coordinate a joint operation involving RAB and police to combat piracy in forested areas of the country.
| 1 |
The German ambassador, Holger Michael, met with President Zillur Rahman on Wednesday, conveying friendly greetings from the German president to the people of Bangladesh. In a letter of credence, German President Horst Kohler emphasized the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Germany and Bangladesh. Ambassador Michael praised Bangladesh's progress in fighting poverty, while also recognizing the country's challenges, including climate change, according to the German embassy's statement. He mentioned that Germany remains a significant development partner for Bangladesh and expressed optimism about the potential for increased trade and investment between the two countries. The envoy emphasized the commitment to expanding trade links and supporting efforts to enhance democracy and human rights in Bangladesh. He also commended Bangladesh for its positive role in international politics. Michael expressed Germany's backing for Bangladesh's initiatives in enhancing regional cooperation and stability in South Asia, its involvement in UN peacekeeping missions, and its representation of the Least Developed Countries group. Before his posting in Dhaka, Michael held the position of Trade Promotion chief at the Federal Foreign Office. He previously served as deputy head of mission in Bangkok and Hong Kong, and had assignments in Korea, Nicaragua, and Turkey.
| 1 |
His shiny leather shoes made a crunching sound as he walked on the dust left behind by miners who had spilled cobalt-laden rocks from nylon bags. Albert Yuma Mulimbi, a prominent figure in Congo and chairman of a government agency that collaborates with international mining companies to access the nation's copper and cobalt reserves for use in combating global warming, is determined to transform Congo into a dependable cobalt supplier. He aims to change the country's reputation for allowing unsafe and exploitative mining practices, including child labor and accidents resulting in injuries and fatalities. Yuma arrived at the Kasulo site in a convoy of SUVs with a delegation to assess the challenges faced there, stating, "We need to restructure the country and regulate the mining industry." However, both in Congo and the United States, Yuma himself is viewed as part of the problem. As the chairman of Gécamines, the state-owned mining company in Congo, he has been accused of being involved in diverting billions of dollars in revenues, as revealed in confidential State Department legal documents and interviews with current and former officials in both countries. Despite efforts by top State Department officials to remove him from the mining agency and have him sanctioned, they argue that he has been using his position to enrich friends, family, and political allies for years. Yuma, however, denies any wrongdoing and is actively engaged in a lobbying and legal campaign to clear his name in Washington and Kinshasa, while also moving forward with his plans to reform cobalt mining. Operating his own foreign policy apparatus effectively, Yuma has hired influential lobbyists, sent $1.5 million to a former White House official, provided the United States with intelligence on Russia and critical minerals, and even visited Trump Tower in New York, where he briefly met with Donald Trump Jr in 2018. Despite being granted significant access to the Trump administration, he was later banned from entering the United States just two months later. His influence in the mining industry has complicated Congo's efforts to attract new Western investors and establish itself in the clean energy revolution, which it is currently contributing to with its abundant reserves of minerals and metals such as cobalt. Cobalt is essential in batteries for electric cars as it helps prevent overheating and increases their range, but due to its high price and the dangerous conditions in Congo, where most of the world's cobalt is produced, it has earned the nickname "the blood diamond of batteries." Consequently, car manufacturers are seeking alternative sources of cobalt for electric vehicles to avoid backlash from consumers, turning to other countries with smaller reserves. If Congo does not address human rights issues in its mines, it could risk diminishing its role in the growing economy. Even if Yuma addresses the issues as promised, it may not be sufficient for potential American investors who are concerned about Congo's history of corruption in the mining industry. President Felix Tshisekedi has attempted to undermine Yuma by appointing his own people to Gécamines, but has not taken further action against him. Tshisekedi expressed his own plans for improving mining conditions in the country during an interview in Kinshasa, stating that the government, not Yuma, will ultimately make the decisions. The conflict between Yuma and the president reflects power struggles that have plagued African nations with abundant natural resources in the past. The outcome of this situation will have far-reaching consequences beyond just the continent, as the worldwide effort to combat climate change requires a shift from gasoline-powered vehicles to battery-powered ones. In Congo, the crucial question is whether Yuma will help the country embrace the global trend towards sustainability and economic growth, or if he will contribute to further conflict and instability. Statues in a mining hub in Congo's Copperbelt depict the two sides of the country's mining industry: industrial and artisanal. High-tech, industrial mines operated by global corporations such as China Molybdenum employ numerous individuals in Congo's cobalt sector, and while they face their own challenges, they are not primarily responsible for the country's negative reputation internationally. The artisanal sector, on the other hand, is a different story and is where Yuma intends to focus his reform efforts. This sector is comprised of regular adults with no formal training, and sometimes children, and is largely unregulated, often involving individuals trespassing on land owned by industrial mines. Along the main highway that runs through many of these mines, there is a constant flow of individuals on motorbikes carrying bags of stolen cobalt, each valued at approximately $175, evading checkpoints by emerging from sunflower thickets. Due to a lack of alternative employment opportunities, many parents send their children to search for cobalt. Recently, a group of young boys were seen collecting rocks that had fallen off trucks on a road between two industrial mines. The work is risky for other children, who are working in makeshift mines where some have lost their lives due to collapses in narrow tunnels. Kasulo, where Yuma is presenting his plans, is an example of the dangerous mining practices that can be fueled by a gold-rush-like excitement. The mine, approved by Gécamines, consists of large gashes in the earth the size of city blocks. Originally a thriving rural village, Kasulo transformed into a mining area after cobalt deposits were discovered underneath a resident's home. The finding caused a stir, leading to many individuals excavating their own yards. Currently, the only traces of village existence are a mango tree and a couple of purple bougainvillea bushes from the residents' gardens. To prevent flooding in the hand-dug shafts, orange tarps secured with worn ropes are used, where workers descend to chip away at the rock to retrieve cobalt pieces. Georges Punga frequents the mine and began working in diamond mines at the age of 11, now being 41 years old. Since then, he has been exploring Congo in search of valuable resources such as gold, copper, and cobalt. Punga, with scars on his shins from work-related injuries, earns less than $10 a day but manages to support his family and keep his children in school. He expressed a desire to find a different job if possible. "I'm exhausted from digging." Congo officials have started implementing measures to improve mining practices, such as establishing a Gécamines subsidiary to address issues like safety hazards and child labor. Miners at sites like Kasulo will soon receive safety gear, tunneling will be prohibited, and pit depths will be regulated to prevent accidents. Payments to workers will be more consistent and secure through electronic means. Yuma, as the chair of the board of directors, is leading these reforms. With the increasing demand for cobalt, Western investors and mining companies in Congo have no choice but to collaborate with him, as small-scale mines contribute significantly to the country's output. After cobalt is extracted from mines, a new agency will purchase it from miners and establish standardized pricing to facilitate government taxation. Yuma proposes the creation of a fund to assist workers financially in case cobalt prices decrease. Currently, miners sell their cobalt at a row of tin shacks where loud sledgehammers mask all other sounds. International traders evaluate the metal's purity at these shacks before purchasing it, leading to complaints of unfair treatment from miners. Yuma guided reporters from the Times on a tour of Kasulo and a recently built warehouse and laboratory complex nearby, which is meant to replace the buying shacks. "We are currently experiencing an economic shift, with cobalt being the crucial product," stated Yuma, as he proudly showcased the unoccupied complex. The International Energy Agency suggests that addressing the artisanal mining issue is better than completely disengaging from Congo, as that could worsen the situation for impoverished miners. However, critics note that Yuma's plans, aside from constructing new buildings, have not made significant progress in improving conditions for miners. Many government officials in Congo and the United States question Yuma's leadership abilities, speculating that his actions may be more about personal gain than actually addressing issues like child labor and unsafe working conditions in the cobalt trade. At his Gécamines office, Yuma was surrounded by bottles of Dom Pérignon while chunks of precious metals from Congo sat in glass displays. He drank an espresso before his interview with the Times, surrounded by contemporary Congolese art from his personal collection. He stated that his lavish lifestyle, which was on full display, was proof that he did not need to cheat or steal to succeed. Yuma, one of Congo's wealthiest businessmen, refuted allegations of embezzling money from the government by pointing out that he was driving a BMW in Belgium at just 20 years old. He obtained a valuable piece of riverside property in Kinshasa where his family established a textile business that manufactures the country's military uniforms. Known for his extravagant lifestyle, he is constantly in the spotlight. His daughter's 2019 wedding, which was reminiscent of a Las Vegas show with dancers in light-up costumes and white giraffe statues as table centerpieces, is still a topic of conversation. He has held positions on the board of Congo's central bank and was recently reelected as president of the country's influential trade association, similar to the US Chamber of Commerce. The mining agency he chairs, Gécamines, was nationalized and renamed under President Mobutu Sese Seko after Congo gained independence from Belgium in 1960. At one point, Gécamines had a monopoly on copper and cobalt mining and was one of the top copper producers globally by the 1980s. Jobs at the company provided a generous salary, healthcare, and education for employees' families. However, Mobutu, who was in power for 32 years, misused the company's funds for his personal benefit and that of his allies. This behavior was continued by his successors, leading to a significant decrease in production by the 1990s. Instead of reinvesting money into operations, Gécamines accumulated a debt of over $1 billion, resulting in the layoff of half of its workforce. In order to survive, Gécamines underwent restructuring and began forming joint ventures with private investors, primarily foreign, where the agency held a minority share. Yuma assumed control in 2010, pledging to restore Gécamines to its former status. However, according to anti-corruption organizations, mining profits quickly disappeared. The Carter Centre, a non-profit group, estimated that from 2011 to 2014 alone, approximately $750 million went missing from Gécamines' funds, with some of the responsibility falling on Yuma. Among the beneficiaries of Gécamines' partnerships during Yuma's tenure was Dan Gertler, an Israeli billionaire diamond trader. Gertler was sanctioned by the US for engaging in questionable and corrupt deals in mining and oil worth hundreds of millions of dollars, according to the Treasury Department. A confidential report submitted to the State Department and Treasury and obtained by the Times accuses Yuma of nepotism, having ownership in textile and food import businesses that received funding from a government agency he oversaw, and directing work to a mining contractor in which he had shares. US authorities suspected Yuma of using money from the mining sector to support supporters of Joseph Kabila, the corrupt president of Congo for 18 years. The State Department's 2018 annual report on human rights in Congo, which credited the Carter Centre for the research, noted that suspicious financial transactions seemed to coincide with the country's electoral cycles. Yuma has been accused of embezzling $8.8 billion from Congo, a claim he dismisses as absurd, arguing that he has actually generated billions of dollars in revenue for the country. Yuma has aggressively responded to watchdog groups and his critics by accusing them of being "new colonialists" and claiming they conspired with mining companies to hinder his efforts to reform the industry, which he believes has led to the exploitation of the Congolese population. Yuma has defended himself by sending a 33-page document to the Times, highlighting his contributions to the country through mining policy reform. In an attempt to improve his image, Yuma addressed top officials and executives in Washington in 2018, expressing his support for partnerships with American companies to secure the US supply chain. Despite facing accusations of exploiting his country's resources, Yuma sought redemption by convincing Washington of his importance in Congo's mining industry. His team of lobbyists and lawyers included experienced professionals such as Joseph Szlavik and Erich Ferrari. Staying at the Four Seasons, he conducted meetings during two trips that spring with officials from the World Bank and the departments of Defence, Energy, and the Interior. He also made a trip to New York, where he had a meeting with Donald Trump Jr. He was accompanied by Gentry Beach, a Texas hedge fund manager who was a major campaign fundraiser for the former president and a close friend and former business partner of Trump Jr. Beach has been attempting to secure a mining deal in Congo and had previously been involved in a mining project there with Trump. Beach did not respond to requests for comment. Yuma downplayed the meeting with the president's son, stating that it was simply an introduction. Trump stated that he could not remember the meeting. Yuma consistently emphasized that America required his assistance and he was prepared to provide it. In Washington, he shared what he believed to be important information regarding Russia's attempts to obtain Congolese niobium, a durable metal used in fighter jet engines. Yuma claimed to have prevented the sale to benefit the United States, as confirmed by two US officials present at the meeting. Issues arose during one of the trips. One of his lobbying team members was warned by a State Department official that Yuma was under investigation for corruption by the United States and would face consequences. In June 2018, the State Department officially banned him from entering the United States, stating that the government is dedicated to fighting corruption without specifically naming Yuma. The Times later confirmed that the ban included Yuma and other senior officials from Congo. This action made Yuma realize he needed to increase his influence. He planned to hire Herman Cohen, a former assistant secretary of state for African affairs under Bush, and George Denison, who had worked for President Gerald Ford. Joseph Gatt, a former Congolese airline and telephone executive living in Virginia and close to Yuma, also supported his cause. Gatt stationed a personal aide at the Fairmont, a luxury hotel near the White House, to organize meetings with lobbyists to push for permission for Yuma to visit the United States. Gatt described Yuma as a formidable person and denied the allegations against him, saying he was clean. Yuma also worked on improving his reputation in Congo by hatching a plan with exiting president Kabila to become prime minister. A high-ranking US official visited Yuma at his residence in Kinshasa to express the United States' strong opposition to his plan. During the meeting, Yuma and the diplomat, J Peter Pham, discussed political events in Congo but the conversation took a negative turn. Pham, who was a special envoy at the time, warned Yuma that if he continued with Kabila's plan, the US was prepared to deport his daughters who were studying in the US. Despite the threat, Yuma remained determined and even enlisted an aide to Rep Hank Johnson to extend an invitation for him to visit the US and discuss his work in Congo. The invitation was also extended to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, but the State Department rejected it, viewing it as an attempt to evade the visa ban. Despite this setback, Yuma continued to recruit influencers to support his cause. Denison briefly joined the Washington lobbying team with the task of securing Yuma's travel to the US without facing legal consequences, as shown in a June 2020 email. State Department officials were contemplating placing Yuma on a sanctions list, potentially freezing his assets in international banks. The $3 million contract between the men did not mention the assignment involving money transfer, but instead stated that Denison was to promote the business climate in Congo. After receiving $1.5 million and being instructed to transfer most of it to an associate of Yuma's, Denison became concerned about potential involvement in a money-laundering scheme, leading him to hire a lawyer, resign from the job, and return all the funds. Denison described Yuma as a "huge crook." Yuma chose not to answer a question related to the issue. Tshisekedi and Yuma, who are both presidents, were seen walking together near a large terraced canyon at a cobalt mine owned by Glencore in the Copperbelt region. This region is heavily associated with mining, to the point where roadside markets sell mining gear alongside fresh produce. This outing, which took place in May, was awkward for the two political rivals. Tshisekedi, who has been in office since early 2019 following a disputed election, has gained support from the Biden administration, who view him as an ally in the fight against climate change. He holds the position of chair of the African Union and has made several appearances alongside President Joe Biden at international events, such as a recent meeting in Rome and another in Glasgow at a global climate conference. In his homeland, Tshisekedi has declared his goal of transforming Congo into the global hub for strategic minerals. However, some Congolese and American officials believe that Yuma must be removed for this vision to be realized. Despite efforts to pressure his removal, Yuma still holds significant influence, leaving the State Department puzzled. Yuma continues to operate as usual, surrounded by a team of assistants who refer to him as President Yuma, recognizing his authority and aspirations in the business world. He discusses plans to add seven additional floors and a helipad to his office building in downtown Kinshasa. During the United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, one of his lobbyists sought out Tshisekedi to urge him to support Yuma. Yuma conducted a nationwide tour in Congo this year that resembled a political campaign, visiting every province and beginning in Tshisekedi's hometown. During the tour, he met with a group of pineapple juice sellers and gave them $5,000 in cash to help their business. In an interview, he explained that he wants to demonstrate his support, similar to the president. Yuma hopes to be recognized for bringing in more US investors through his reform initiatives. He stated, "I consider myself a friend of America and always strive to assist and encourage US investment in DRC [Congo]. As I mentioned before, I have a great affection for America." One of these days, people will realize that I am a strong supporter of America and will continue to assist as a good friend. If he wants to succeed by revitalizing the mining industry, it will be a challenging task. Throughout the day, the main highway is filled with trucks carrying copper and chemicals for metal extraction, while motorcycles transport stolen cobalt alongside them.
| 1 |
US President Barack Obama acknowledged on Wednesday that the disappointment surrounding the outcome of the Copenhagen climate change summit was justified, echoing the widespread belief that the conference had not been successful. In an interview with PBS Newshour, he stated that while people had a right to be disappointed, the fact that some progress had been made was better than a complete collapse of the summit. The accord that Obama helped facilitate has been criticized by Sweden as a disaster for the environment, while British Prime Minister Gordon Brown described the summit as flawed or chaotic. Climate change advocates have also been highly critical of the minimal agreements reached at the talks, which fell short of original goals to reduce carbon emissions and address global warming due to ongoing disagreements between wealthy nations and developing economies. Some people criticized China specifically. British Environment Minister Ed Miliband accused China of interfering with efforts to make substantial cuts in global emissions. China rejected this accusation and accused London of trying to create rifts among developing countries regarding climate change. Obama did not accuse anyone directly, but he did mention that the Chinese delegation was not participating in negotiations until he intervened personally. Obama stated that when negotiations were on the verge of collapsing and the Indian prime minister was about to leave, the Chinese representatives were not participating in negotiations, but eventually the situation was resolved calmly. Obama reached an agreement with China, India, Brazil, and South Africa during the last hours of the conference after holding individual meetings with the leaders of these four nations. He stated that they were able to come to a consensus on non-binding targets for all countries, including China and India, who are expected to be the biggest emitters in the future.
| 1 |
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda and Russian President Vladimir Putin met on Saturday to discuss various issues, including climate change and a longstanding dispute over a group of Pacific islands. Fukuda is expected to urge Russia to speed up negotiations to resolve the territorial dispute, which has strained relations between the two countries and prevented them from signing a peace treaty ending World War Two. Putin acknowledged the positive changes in the relationship between Japan and Russia in recent years and expressed willingness to continue dialogue on the peace treaty. He also mentioned that bilateral trade has increased significantly, but there are still many unresolved issues that need to be addressed. Fukuda will hold discussions with Dmitry Medvedev, who will be inaugurated as head of state on May 7. Putin, who has served as president for eight years, will continue as prime minister and leader of the largest party. According to a Japanese foreign ministry official, Fukuda's main objectives during the visit are to build a personal relationship of trust with President Putin and president-elect Medvedev, and to prepare for the upcoming G8 summit. The islands, called the Southern Kuriles in Russia and the Northern Territories in Japan, were taken by Soviet troops at the end of World War Two. They are located just north of the northern island of Hokkaido, where Japan will host this year's Group of Eight summit. Japan is prioritizing the search for a more efficient alternative to the Kyoto Protocol on climate change, which will expire in 2012, during the G8 summit. Tokyo aims to create a climate change agreement that includes major polluters like the United States, China, and India, none of which have agreed to the limitations set by the Kyoto Protocol. Russia, a G8 member, was one of the significant emerging economies that agreed to the Kyoto commitments. Japanese officials are optimistic that Moscow will back a new agreement in Hokkaido. A high-ranking Japanese government official stated that Prime Minister Fukuda plans to encourage Russian leaders to speed up discussions in order to settle the territorial dispute. The official mentioned that Fukuda is likely to emphasize the importance of both countries making progress in negotiations to improve their relationship. Despite Russia's willingness to discuss the issue, they have not shown any intention of relinquishing control of the islands. A Kremlin official mentioned that they do not anticipate any significant progress in the talks with Fukuda. In 2007, the trade between Russia and Japan reached a value of $20 billion, driven by companies like Toyota Motor Corp establishing factories to take advantage of the growing Russian market. However, this trade volume is much lower compared to the trade between Russia and its primary trading partner, the European Union. Japanese companies have invested in large oil and gas projects on Russia's Pacific Sakhalin island, and there is currently a pipeline being built to transport oil from eastern Siberia to the Pacific coast.
| 1 |
In an interview with the New York Times, Trump acknowledged some connection between human activity and global warming, despite previously calling climate change a hoax. A source on Trump's transition team had mentioned earlier this month that he was exploring ways to pull the US out of the 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change. When asked on Tuesday about withdrawing from the accord, Trump stated he was closely evaluating the situation and had an open mind about it. Exiting the agreement, which almost 200 countries have signed, would hinder global efforts to combat rising temperatures and the resulting environmental impacts. Trump, who will assume office on January 20th, expressed concerns about climate change and American competitiveness during an interview. According to a tweet by a Times reporter, he mentioned the potential cost to American companies. This caught two members of Trump's transition team off guard. This shift in stance on global warming suggests that Trump may be moving away from some of his campaign promises as his presidency draws near. For example, he mentioned the possibility of building a fence instead of a wall along certain areas of the US-Mexican border to address illegal immigration. Additionally, he indicated a lack of interest in pursuing investigations against his former Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton, during the interview. "I don't want to harm the Clintons, I really don't. She has gone through a lot and suffered greatly in many different ways," he told reporters, editors, and other newspaper officials at the Times headquarters in Manhattan. However, when asked if he would rule out investigating Clinton over her family's charitable foundation or her use of a private email server while she was US secretary of state during President Barack Obama's first term, Trump said "no." If Trump does decide not to follow through on his campaign promise to appoint a special prosecutor for Clinton, it will be a reversal of his stance that he frequently mentioned during the campaign, where he called his opponent "Crooked Hillary" and his supporters often chanted "Lock her up" at rallies. His remarks about Clinton to the Times upset some of his most ardent conservative followers. Breitbart News, formerly led by Trump's top advisor Steve Bannon, recently ran a story titled "Broken Promise: Trump 'Doesn't Wish to Pursue' Clinton email charges." The FBI investigated Clinton's email practices and found her actions to be careless, but ultimately decided not to press charges. The Clinton Foundation has also faced scrutiny for its donations, but there is no evidence that foreign donors received special treatment from the State Department while Clinton was in charge. President Trump, a businessman with no prior political experience, dismissed concerns over conflicts of interest between his presidency and his family's businesses, stating that the law is on his side and that a president cannot have a conflict of interest. Trump stated that his company is not very important to him compared to his current responsibilities. While conflict-of-interest rules do not apply to the president, he is still subject to bribery laws, disclosure requirements, and the US Constitution's prohibition on accepting gifts from foreign governments. According to ethics lawyers from both parties, there may be certain laws that do not directly apply to the president, but he is still expected to adhere to the law. Former ethics lawyers from previous administrations expressed concern about the president only doing the minimum necessary to comply with ethical standards. Trump's daughter Ivanka, who is a businesswoman, recently participated in a phone call with Argentine President Mauricio Macri and attended a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe alongside her father. This has raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest. Trump expressed confidence that House Speaker Paul Ryan and other Republicans in Congress would support his trillion-dollar infrastructure plan, stating that they are currently very supportive of him. Following his election victory on Nov 8, Trump has been meeting with potential candidates for key roles in his administration. Ben Carson, a former Republican presidential candidate who endorsed Trump, has been offered the position of secretary of housing and urban development. Carson, a former surgeon who had a meeting with Trump on Tuesday, will consider the offer during the Thanksgiving holiday, according to Williams. Trump arrived in Florida on Tuesday night and will be celebrating Thanksgiving at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach.
| 1 |
According to officials, cyber attacks, terrorism, inter-state conflict, and natural hazards are the main threats to British security. The government emphasized these threats in a new National Security Strategy, ahead of a major military review with expected spending cuts. The government aims to show critics that the armed forces review is policy-driven rather than solely for saving money, as Britain tries to reduce a large budget deficit while maintaining its position as a strong military power in Europe and a reliable ally to the United States. The National Security Strategy report outlines clear priorities, including counter-terrorism, cyber security, international military crises, and disaster response. Insurgencies abroad that could lead to terrorist attacks in the UK were categorized as a lower priority. The document emphasized that threats could come from other states, but it particularly emphasized threats from non-state and unconventional actors. This emphasis is expected to be used as a rationale for reducing purchases of major military equipment. The Ministry of Defense's budget of 36.9 billion pounds ($58.62 billion) is projected to be reduced by less than 10%, which is significantly less than the average reduction of 25% applied to other government departments. However, these cuts are still anticipated to have significant political, industrial, and diplomatic ramifications. The National Security Strategy also identified nuclear proliferation as a growing threat and highlighted that British security could be compromised by the impacts of climate change on food and water supply. (Exchange rate: $1=.6295 Pound)
| 1 |
Xi's announcement did not include specific details, but the implementation of the policy could have a significant impact on the financing of coal plants in developing countries. China has faced pressure to stop its coal financing abroad in order to help the world meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement. Xi's decision follows similar actions by South Korea and Japan earlier in the year, and both UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and US climate envoy John Kerry have encouraged China to follow suit. In a pre-recorded video address at the annual UN gathering, Xi stated that China will increase support for developing countries in the development of green and low-carbon energy, and will not construct new coal-fired power projects overseas. Kerry praised Xi's announcement as a positive step towards success at the upcoming COP26 United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, Scotland. "We have been in discussions with China for a significant amount of time regarding this matter. I am very pleased to hear that President Xi has made this important decision," stated Kerry. Alok Sharma, who leads COP26, also praised the announcement. "It is evident that coal power is on its way out. I appreciate President Xi's pledge to cease constructing new coal projects overseas - a topic of great importance during my visit to China," he tweeted. Following US President Joe Biden's inaugural United Nations speech, Xi addressed the audience, outlining a new phase of intense competition that does not involve a new Cold War, despite China's growing power. Xi's speech, delivered in a composed manner, did not directly refer to the strained relationship between China and the US, where Biden's administration has prioritized climate change policies and attempted to collaborate with Beijing. Xi restated commitments made the previous year, including reaching a peak in carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2060. While some experts have criticized these targets as insufficiently ambitious, they have allowed China to position itself favorably on the issue after former US President Donald Trump, who dismissed climate change as a "hoax," withdrew from the Paris climate agreement. China, the biggest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world, still heavily relies on coal for its energy needs. One of Biden's first actions upon taking office in January was to reaffirm US leadership on climate change and rejoin the Paris agreement. Justin Guay, director of global climate strategy at the Sunrise Project, praised Xi's commitment to ending public financing of coal, stating that this could significantly reduce global coal expansion. Guterres also commended Xi's decision regarding coal and Biden's promise to increase funding to help developing countries address climate change to $11.4 billion per year by 2024. He mentioned that speeding up the global elimination of coal is the most crucial action to achieve the 1.5-degree target of the Paris Agreement. Earlier, Biden spoke about democracy triumphing over authoritarianism without directly naming China. He emphasized that the future belongs to those who grant their people freedom, not those who oppress them. Biden also called for the denouncement of persecution against minorities worldwide, including in Xinjiang, where China has been accused of mistreating Uyghurs and other Muslim groups. China has denied these allegations. Relations between the world's two largest economies have been deteriorating significantly in recent years due to various issues such as human rights and lack of transparency regarding the origins of COVID-19. Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of avoiding the formation of exclusive groups or engaging in zero-sum games, possibly in reference to the US-led Quad forum, which aims to counter China's growing influence in the region. China has expressed concerns about an escalating arms race following the announcement of the AUKUS alliance between the US, UK, and Australia, which will provide Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Despite criticism over the handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, President Biden has stated that ending the conflict will allow the US to focus on the Indo-Pacific region. Xi criticized outside military intervention and attempts at democratic transformation, suggesting that they only bring harm, in an apparent criticism of the US.
| 1 |
This upcoming budget will be the final one for the current Awami League-led grand alliance government, as they will not have the entirety of the fiscal year 2013-14 to implement it. The Minister of Finance stated that the estimated allocation for the annual development programme (ADP) is Tk 656 billion, with an overall budget deficit of Tk 563 billion. The budgetary framework has been prepared by the Ministry of Finance and is available with bdnews24.com. The targeted GDP growth for the next fiscal year is 7.2 percent, with a proposal to bring the overall inflation rate below 7 percent. Additionally, funds have been allocated for the construction of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge. The Finance Minister is set to present the proposed budget in Parliament on June 6, with the final size expected to exceed Tk 2 trillion. Priorities in the new budget will include power, energy, roads, ports, and infrastructure, as well as human resources development, agriculture, rural development, employment creation, social safety net strengthening, climate change, and 'Digital Bangladesh'. This budget aims to fulfill the electoral pledges of the government. The upcoming budget will reinforce the foundation of economic and social progress established by the government in the previous four budgets. It will also outline a roadmap for future development under the next government, with a particular focus on enhancing the railway sector.
| 1 |
During the dry season, cattle-keepers like Lobunei prepare to move their herds to distant water sources, negotiating access with communities along the way. This traditional practice, essential for the survival of the Karamojong people in a region with unpredictable rainfall patterns worsened by climate change, is now facing challenges due to limited access to common land, increased insecurity, and government interference. Some herders fear that these obstacles are forcing them to switch to less sustainable crop farming, which is vulnerable to extreme weather events. Lobunei, from Nakapiripirit, finds himself increasingly restricted by large farms and a wildlife reserve that have limited his traditional migration routes. He also needs to obtain written permission from an increasing number of government officials who control movement across the grasslands where his ancestors once allowed their cattle to graze freely. He questioned whether they are the Karamojong people, or if it is the government that embodies the Karamojong identity. A report from 2017 by the Ugandan government and collaborating agencies mentioned that Karamoja has experienced longer dry periods and more frequent heavy rain showers since 1981. The report also cautioned that a warming planet will lead to more unpredictable, unreliable, and intense rainfall in the region in the future. Local residents have noticed that the seasons have changed, causing the names of the months to no longer match up with the natural events they used to represent. For instance, the month of "lomaruk" used to be named after white mushrooms that would appear in March, but now they show up much later. Traditionally, herders in the area would adjust by relocating their animals and arranging access to water and grazing land through a system known as etamam, or "sending a message". According to Emmanuel Tebanyang, a policy analyst at the Karamoja Development Forum (KDF), elders would first hold meetings to decide whether or not to migrate that season, and then send out scouts to find suitable grazing areas. If a host community is willing to welcome them, a bull would be sacrificed as a gesture of peace. "But etamam is experiencing a significant change," Tebanyang stated, with more discussions now being held through local government officials who require written permission before migration is allowed. The state has been trying to regulate and document movement in Karamoja since the time of colonialism, but in recent years, pastoralists believe that the government's control has become stronger. According to Alex Lemu Longoria, a Karamojong elder and former mayor of Moroto town, everything is now governed by the government in this new culture. The number of districts in Karamoja has increased from four in 2005 to nine now. The creation of new districts and sub-counties means that herders now need approval from a larger group of officials before crossing boundaries. Longoria mentioned that they no longer go to certain places due to the problem. Officials are questioning why people are moving to those areas. Another challenge is the increase in armed cattle-raiding since 2019, with guns entering from Kenya and South Sudan, causing fear among herders and leading to stricter measures by authorities. Karamoja police spokesperson Michael Longole explained that herders have freedom of movement, but traders transporting cattle are facing restrictions due to the threat of cattle raids. Authorities are warning traders about the tightened measures in response to the raids. One way to close the gap between informal grassroots discussions and official processes is by forming committees focused on peace and resource-sharing, consisting of community representatives, according to Denis Pius Lokiru, a program manager at Mercy Corps. Since 2019, this organization has facilitated the signing of four agreements in Karamoja, witnessed by government officials and integrated into local laws. These agreements outline how water and other resources can be shared peacefully to prevent conflict. The new committees also include more youth and women, noted Cecilia Dodoi, vice-chair of the Kotido Women's Peace Forum, who emphasized that women's voices are now being heard and valued. Many of these women, who are widows, have firsthand experience of the devastating effects of conflict. Tebanyang from the KDF questions the purpose of written agreements, wondering if they are meant for herders on the grasslands or bureaucrats in offices. He believes that herders do not need these documents, as they rely on a thumbprint as the only necessary evidence of an agreement, regardless of symbols. President Yoweri Museveni has been promoting sedentary farming in Karamoja, emphasizing the importance of modern commercial agriculture for increased productivity, despite the continued evolution of pastoralism in Uganda. Despite the long tradition of agropastoralism in Karamoja, recent research indicates a shift towards agriculture over the past 20 years. Satellite data from the University of Maryland shows a significant increase in cultivated land from 2000 to 2011, while a 2018 study by the Karamoja Resilience Support Unit found that a majority of households no longer have enough livestock to sustain themselves. However, local experts caution against focusing solely on crops due to the impact of climate change. According to Simon Peter Lomoe of the Dynamic Agro-Pastoralist Development Organisation, there is still a desire to maintain livestock within the community. In the event of a drought in this area, it is possible to relocate livestock in search of water, but it is not possible to relocate crops.
| 1 |
Britain, which is co-hosting the virtual summit before the climate negotiations in Glasgow next year, has been criticized for funding oil and natural gas projects overseas that contribute to climate change. Prime Minister Johnson stated that by taking bold action now, they can create future jobs, aid in the recovery from COVID-19, and protect the environment for future generations. Over 70 world leaders, including those from China, India, Canada, and Japan, are expected to announce more ambitious climate commitments at the summit. Britain is set to become the first major economy to stop public financing for overseas fossil fuel projects, with experts praising this move as setting a new example for serious climate action. Louise Burrows, a policy adviser with consultancy E3G, expressed support for this policy shift. Britain has the authority to encourage other countries to do the same. The UK Export Finance agency has provided guarantees worth billions of dollars to support the expansion of British oil and gas companies in various countries. Johnson had been criticized for UKEF's involvement in supporting Total's liquefied natural gas project in Mozambique. The government announced a new policy that will end state support for overseas oil, natural gas, and coal projects, with few exceptions for gas-fired power plants that adhere to the Paris agreement.
| 1 |
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has reappointed Pascal Lamy as director-general for a second four-year term, the organization announced on Thursday. Lamy, a 62-year-old Frenchman, was the only candidate for the position and was unanimously approved by the WTO General Council. This marks the first time in the WTO's history that the director-general candidacy was uncontested. Lamy's first term focused on efforts to finalize the Doha round, a seven-year-old initiative aimed at promoting global trade liberalization and supporting developing countries through increased exports. Lamy believes that concluding the Doha round is crucial for boosting business confidence, strengthening defenses against protectionism during economic crises, and is the WTO's primary objective. He stated to the council that the Doha round has significant systemic value beyond the necessary trade-offs and market access it will provide. The main benefit of the Doha round is the certainty, predictability, and stability it will bring to global trade, especially during times of crisis. Lamy emphasized the importance of addressing other issues such as climate change, food security, energy, labor, and financial protectionism, but suggested that serious work on these matters should not begin until a Doha deal is close to being reached. He believed that 80 percent of a Doha agreement was already secured. Lamy mentioned that the WTO's dispute settlement system, which resolves trade disputes involving large sums of money between countries, was functioning effectively. However, he emphasized the need for developing countries to receive more assistance in navigating the complex and costly dispute resolution processes, and for all countries to promptly comply with decisions made by WTO dispute panels. In addition to convening ministers to finalize a Doha agreement, Lamy suggested that the WTO should organize a regular ministerial conference this year to establish a strategy and assess the organization's performance. He pointed out that a ministerial conference had not been held since 2005. According to WTO regulations, a new director-general must be appointed every two years. Lamy is recognized for successfully revitalizing French bank Credit Lyonnais, which is now a part of Credit Agricole, after it faced financial trouble. He assumed the position of director-general of the WTO in September 2005.
| 1 |
US President Barack Obama has decided to attend the end of the Copenhagen climate change summit, a change in plans that the White House announced on Friday. This decision was made due to the increasing momentum towards a new global agreement. Originally, Obama was set to attend the summit in Denmark on December 7-18 before traveling to Oslo to receive his Nobel Peace Prize. Some European officials and environmentalists were surprised by the initial decision, as they believed the most crucial negotiations on reducing greenhouse gas emissions would occur towards the end of the summit when many other world leaders would be present. The White House stated that progress is being made towards a significant agreement in Copenhagen where all countries commit to combatting climate change. Danish officials have confirmed that over 100 world leaders will be attending the conference, which is hoped to pave the way for a new agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol. The White House stated that the president has decided to participate in the Copenhagen conference on December 18th rather than on December 9th, as he believes that continued US leadership can be most effective in moving negotiations forward. The Obama administration is optimistic about recent commitments by China and India to reduce emissions and the increasing agreement on providing financial assistance to developing nations affected by climate change. Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown both welcomed Obama's decision, noting that it will help in reaching a successful climate deal in Copenhagen. The United States will commit to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 17 percent below 2005 levels by 2020. It was the final major industrialized nation to set a target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in a UN-led effort to combat global warming, which could result in more extreme weather events, expanding deserts, floods, and rising sea levels. Experts anticipate that the Copenhagen summit will come to a political agreement that includes emission reduction targets for wealthy countries by 2020. Negotiations on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol will be postponed until 2010. The White House confirmed that Obama had spoken with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, French President Nicolas Sarkozy, and British Prime Minister Gordon Brown regarding the progress of the talks. There seems to be a growing consensus that a key component of the Copenhagen agreement should be to secure commitments totaling $10 billion a year by 2012 to assist developing nations in dealing with the impacts of climate change, as per the White House. The statement declared that the United States will contribute its fair share of the amount, with other countries also making significant commitments. Environmentalists praised Obama's decision and urged him to adjust his administration's emissions reduction goals accordingly. Greenpeace International's political climate coordinator, Martin Kaiser, stated that Obama's change of heart in response to global pressure is crucial for the upcoming meeting, but emphasized the need for him to align his targets and financial contributions with the requirements of climate science.
| 1 |
The business community is urging the government to create a long-term and realistic policy to enhance the investment environment. The president of FBCCI, Mir Nasir Hossain, stated that they have requested the government to finalize this policy within a few months to prevent any changes by future administrations. These recommendations were made in response to the government's draft framework for establishing a 'Better Business Forum' to boost business confidence and economic growth. The private sector's recommendations were presented to Chief Adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed by Nasir, who is coordinating representatives from the business and industry sectors. The proposed forum is anticipated to have a central body consisting of senior advisors, top business executives, and representatives from government agencies such as the Bangladesh Bank, National Board of Revenue, and government secretaries. The government has taken the step to establish this forum in response to the declining business confidence, which has led to a decrease in both domestic and foreign investments. The decrease in business confidence has also impacted the demand for credit from the banking sector, which held more than Tk 140 billion in excess liquidity by the end of July. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in Bangladesh declined by 6 percent to $792 million in 2006, compared to $845 million the previous year, largely due to political unrest, volatility, and changes in government, as reported in the World Investment Report 2007. Additionally, local investment proposals have also decreased according to figures from the Board of Investment. The proposed forum, to be led by chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed and executive chairman Mirza Azizul Islam, is expected to have sub-forums focusing on various topics such as ports, export, import, banking, and investment. Advisers from relevant ministries will chair the committees, with association leaders and government officials as members. The forum aims to address business community issues, propose solutions, and develop action plans. Businessmen have requested private sector representation and prompt selection of working groups. He stated that we have also suggested making amendments to laws in order to streamline business operations.
| 1 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.