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India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be meeting with US President Barack Obama next week to enhance their relationship, as India becomes more influential in global matters such as climate change and trade. The three-day state visit, starting on November 23, is important for New Delhi as it signifies Obama's commitment to maintaining the strong ties established under George W. Bush. India is also seen as a crucial player in promoting stability in South Asia, where violence in Afghanistan and Pakistan, as well as attacks like the ones in Mumbai last year, have caused unrest. During the meeting, Singh and Obama will discuss a range of issues, including reducing carbon emissions, defense contracts, and expediting the implementation of a significant civilian nuclear agreement signed last year. This visit will be the first state visit of the Obama administration, underscoring Singh's efforts to strengthen relations with Western countries and move India towards a more positive relationship with the United States after years of mistrust. The success of the trip will be determined by whether the two leaders can address any doubts about Washington's commitment to New Delhi in a region where it competes with China and Pakistan, both of which are considered important to U.S. foreign policy. According to Walter Andersen of Johns Hopkins University, the relationship between India and the U.S. is good, but lacks a defining issue like the civilian nuclear deal that characterized the relationship during George Bush's presidency. The visit presents an opportunity for both countries to introduce new ideas to strengthen their strategic relationship. President Bill Clinton initiated efforts to build ties with India after the Cold War, and India began to open up its economy in the 1990s. Bush furthered relations with the 2008 civilian nuclear deal, which lifted an embargo imposed in 1974 after India conducted a nuclear test. Bilateral trade increased significantly from $5.6 billion in 1990 to around $43 billion in 2008, representing a 675 percent rise. However, Obama's initial focus on Pakistan in combating the Taliban and prioritizing relations with China caused tension with some in India, who had hoped to continue building on Bush's legacy. While trade, climate change, defense sales, and counter-terrorism have seen positive developments in their relations, there appears to be disagreement on a strategic level. The U.S. strategy for Afghanistan, which involves a focus on Pakistan as a key ally, has been criticized for not addressing the concerns of regional countries like India, which competes with Pakistan for influence in Kabul. India and Pakistan have engaged in three conflicts since gaining independence from Britain in 1947. India, currently facing heightened tensions with China over border disputes, is concerned about China's significant influence on the U.S. economy and its support for Pakistan. Similarly, Beijing is uneasy about the presence of the Dalai Lama in India. This has led to India feeling anxious when the U.S. focuses on China and Pakistan. Chintamani Mahapatra, a foreign policy professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, expressed these concerns. The statement being sought should recognize India's increasing importance in the region and address the perception that the Obama administration has sidelined New Delhi. However, Washington recognizes India's significance as an economic power, a large market, a thriving IT industry, a strong military, and a potential counterbalance to China. Prime Minister Singh will address challenging issues such as the stalled nuclear deal and India's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council. Former U.S. ambassador to India, Frank Wisner, emphasized the importance of discussing strategy, economics, and global issues during the upcoming meeting. If we want to accomplish any of our goals, we require the cooperation of India. | 1 |
Britain is encouraging world leaders to attend the UN climate deal meeting in Copenhagen in December, as they believe success is still possible. The British Prime Minister stated that negotiators are not reaching agreements fast enough and that leaders need to get involved to break the impasse. He also mentioned that he will be attending the meeting and is encouraging other leaders to do the same. Discussions are at a standstill between developed and developing nations regarding how to divide emissions reductions, particularly from the burning of fossil fuels. There is only one week left of formal talks before the Copenhagen conference, which will take place in Barcelona in early November. The ongoing UN negotiations, which began in Bali in 2007, are particularly stuck on the issue of how much rich countries should reduce carbon emissions by 2020, and how much they should pay developing countries to combat climate change. Despite this, there were some signs of progress on Monday, with the Australian government announcing plans to reintroduce carbon trading legislation to parliament and pushing for a vote on the laws before the end of November. The opposition has called for changes to the scheme to avoid a potential defeat that could lead to a snap election being called by Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. The government, which is leading in opinion polls and could gain from an election, plans to launch carbon trading in July 2011. This initiative will impose a price on greenhouse gas emissions, helping to reduce emissions in one of the countries with the highest per capita pollution levels. The Australian program will apply to 75 percent of emissions from the country's largest 1,000 companies, making it the second domestic trading platform outside of Europe. Companies will be required to obtain a permit for each ton of carbon they release. According to an Indian newspaper, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh is pushing for New Delhi to agree to restrictions on the country's increasing carbon emissions without insisting on financial and technological assistance from wealthy nations. The Times of India quoted Ramesh as saying in a letter to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, "We should take a practical and positive approach, rather than being confrontational and argumentative." During an interview with Reuters, Ramesh indicated a readiness to make concessions in order to secure a deal. India, China, and other large developing nations are concerned about the impact of climate change on their countries, emphasizing the importance of limiting extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, rising sea levels, and melting glaciers. The Major Economies Forum in London is focusing on how to translate various national policy plans into a comprehensive agreement, with the countries present accounting for 80 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Asad Rehman, a Climate Campaigner with Friends of the Earth, called on wealthy nations in the forum to provide additional financial support. Copenhagen is facing a major obstacle as the United States, the only industrialized nation not part of the current Kyoto Protocol, is unlikely to enact carbon-cutting legislation by December. In Cape Town, South Africa highlighted a significant source of increasing emissions - the upcoming soccer World Cup in 2010. Emissions are expected to increase nearly tenfold from a benchmark set in 2006, largely due to the inclusion of air travel in the calculations. Minister Buyelwa Sonjica of Water and Environmental Affairs stated that the FIFA 2010 World Cup is projected to have the largest carbon footprint of any major event, despite efforts to make it carbon neutral. | 1 |
Due to a geomagnetic storm caused by a recent solar outburst, 40 out of 49 newly launched Starlink satellites have been disabled and are entering Earth's atmosphere to be destroyed. This event underscores the risks for companies planning to launch thousands of small satellites for internet service from space, as more solar outbursts could potentially knock out additional satellites. The sun follows an 11-year cycle of activity, ranging from hyperactive to calm states. At the moment, the sun is increasing in activity and is expected to reach its peak around 2025. This recent solar event was considered moderate compared to previous occurrences. Hugh Lewis, a space debris expert from the University of Southampton, believes that a more severe event is likely to occur during the next solar cycle. If a mild solar event can already cause damage to satellites, a stronger solar event could have a more significant impact on megaconstellations like SpaceX's Starlink. SpaceX has already announced the potential destruction of 40 satellites due to the impending solar activity. The company stated that following the launch, the satellites were placed into their designated orbit, approximately 130 miles above Earth. This specific altitude was selected in part to prevent potential collisions with other satellites in the future. If the satellites experience issues after being released at this height and are unable to elevate their orbits to more secure levels, it was mentioned that the atmosphere would quickly dispose of the failed technology. This was highlighted as a beneficial safety precaution. However, on January 29, prior to the satellite launch, a powerful eruption from the sun containing highly energetic particles and magnetism, known as a coronal mass ejection, was observed. This ejection reached Earth around February 2, causing a geomagnetic storm within Earth's magnetic field. The intense storm added energy to particles in Earth's atmosphere, causing it to expand and increase in density. This increased drag on objects moving through the atmosphere, including satellites, causing their orbits to shrink and bringing them closer to the lower atmosphere where they would burn up. SpaceX reported that during a recent Starlink deployment, the storm caused atmospheric drag to increase by up to 50%, leading to the loss of 40 out of 49 satellites due to gravity. Currently, there are 1,915 Starlink satellites orbiting, so losing up to 40 is not a major concern for SpaceX, according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. However, this loss could potentially amount to $100 million in hardware costs. The dangers of solar outbursts and geomagnetic storms to objects in low-Earth orbit are well documented, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorizing geomagnetic storms from minor to extreme. These storms can cause electrical damage and communication disruptions. Considering these risks, it is important to question whether SpaceX considered this hazard during the Starlink deployment. Samantha Lawler, an astronomer at the University of Regina in Canada, expressed her surprise and disbelief at the situation, while McDowell also found it unexpected. A SpaceX representative mentioned that the team was unavailable to answer questions due to a busy period. The fact that the satellites are entering the atmosphere quickly and do not pose a threat to people on the ground is seen as positive. Lewis stated that the system operated safely as intended, with the satellites de-orbiting without causing any additional risks. Satellites at higher altitudes typically avoid atmospheric expansion hazards, but lower altitude satellites remain at risk. This raises concerns about SpaceX's ability to continue deploying spacecraft at lower altitudes. Lewis explained that as the sun becomes more active, it releases more extreme ultraviolet radiation, which is absorbed into the atmosphere. This will cause a significant expansion of the atmosphere, leading to a predicted increase in atmospheric density by one or two orders of magnitude. This represents a much larger change compared to the recent event. Numerous astronomers have expressed concerns about Starlink and other satellite constellations, as they can reflect sunlight and potentially disrupt telescope research on Earth. Some view this situation as indicative of SpaceX's approach to issues in low-Earth orbit. According to Lewis, if something goes wrong, SpaceX works to correct it and improve for the future, focusing on hindsight rather than foresight. The loss of these satellites serves as a tough lesson for SpaceX. Lawler stated that the outcome will be determined by their actions, and he expressed his wish that this will help them see things more clearly. | 1 |
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon emphasized the importance of negotiators from 190 countries meeting in Bali to address climate change, stating they have a political and historical responsibility to reach an agreement. Ban expressed concern over the serious consequences of not reaching a deal, but believed all countries, including the United States, aimed to reach an agreement. Disagreements have arisen among countries like the United States, Japan, Canada, and Australia regarding guidelines for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this, Ban remained optimistic that an agreement would be reached during the summit in Bali. He cautioned against countries focusing too much on emission targets, stating that negotiations would need to happen in the future. Ban also mentioned that he was willing to return to Bali on Saturday if discussions remained at a standstill. He emphasized that negotiators, ministers, and senior leaders have a duty to successfully conclude the talks due to the political and historical significance. Ban stressed that climate change and global warming affect everyone, regardless of their nationality. | 1 |
European Union member states are discussing the extent to which they are prepared to combat climate change as they work towards implementing a potentially groundbreaking plan to reduce global warming. The draft statement, obtained by Reuters, proposes cutting EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20 percent by 2020 compared to levels in 1990. However, the bloc is open to increasing this target to 30 percent if other industrialised nations also commit to reductions and economically advanced developing countries contribute as well. This proposal is expected to guide the EU's stance in negotiations for a global emissions reduction agreement post-2012, when the current period covered by the Kyoto Protocol ends. Despite this, Hungary and Poland, recent EU members, are against enforcing the 20 or 30 percent targets. Finland, Sweden, and Denmark have differing opinions on the EU target for emissions reduction, with Finland opposing a unilateral target and Sweden and Denmark advocating for a 30 percent reduction from the beginning. Some states are also interested in discussing the use of a different base year for calculating emissions cuts instead of 1990. Germany, currently holding the EU presidency, is working to reconcile these differences among ministers in order to gain unanimous support for the climate change strategy before a summit of EU leaders in March. The draft proposal suggests that EU states would agree to the 30 percent target only if other developed countries also commit to similar reductions and economically advanced developing countries make appropriate contributions. The statement emphasizes the need for a "differentiated approach" in distributing the requirements for meeting the EU target among the 27 member states. The Commission was urged to examine how the targets would be allocated, stressing the importance of a fair approach that considers national circumstances and the base years of the Kyoto Protocol. The 15 original EU member states have a joint target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eight percent by 2012 compared to 1990 levels, with individual responsibilities outlined in a burden-sharing agreement. | 1 |
He mentioned that despite the USA leaving the Paris Agreement, all other countries are still committed to it. He also highlighted that a majority of Americans believe that climate change is a significant issue and want their government to take action. The remarks were made during a press briefing at the foreign ministry regarding the upcoming "Dhaka Meeting of the Global Commission on Adaptation." Bangladesh, as a climate vulnerable country, has ratified the agreement and hopes that the US will rejoin as their citizens support it. President Hilda Heine of the Marshall Islands, former UN secretary general Ban Ki-moon, and World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva are all set to come to Dhaka on Tuesday for a meeting that will be opened by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. They will also be visiting Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar in order to witness firsthand the environmental damage caused by the arrival of people from Myanmar. Principal Coordinator Azad stated, “We want to demonstrate to global leaders involved in climate change efforts the impact of the Rohingya influx on our environment.” President Heine is expected to arrive early Tuesday, followed by Ban Ki-moon in the afternoon, and they will be greeted by the foreign minister at Shahjalal International Airport. Hasina is scheduled to have a meeting with the president of the Marshall Islands and the former United Nations chief prior to the start of the conference at the Hotel Intercontinental. | 1 |
Production from mines, utilities, and factories grew by only 0.5 percent year-on-year, much lower than expected, according to government data released on Friday. This is a decrease from June's 3.9 percent growth. Retail inflation slightly decreased to 7.8 percent in August from 7.96 percent in the previous month, mainly due to slower price increases in fuel and clothing. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) tracks retail inflation to determine lending rates. Despite the recent strong economic growth, high inflation may make it difficult for Prime Minister Narendra Modi to encourage consumer spending, which is a significant driver of the economy. The RBI is likely to keep interest rates unchanged during the upcoming review on September 30. Inflation is expected to decrease due to factors such as better rainfall, falling global crude prices, and moderating vegetable prices. However, concerns remain about potential interest rate hikes by the US Federal Reserve, which could lead to capital outflows and impact India's economy. Modi's government needs to address issues such as public finances, land acquisition laws, tax regulations, and labor rules to sustain economic growth and investor confidence. In July, there was a 7.4 percent annual decrease in investments, with firms being hesitant to make new investments. Capital goods production also dropped by 3.8 percent compared to the previous year. Despite the pro-business government's efforts to improve the investment climate and boost confidence, analyst Rohini Malkani from Citi believes more action is needed to return to a period of high growth and low inflation. Images show a man working in a boiler spare parts manufacturing workshop near Kolkata in June 2014, and a labourer working in a steel factory on the outskirts of Jammu in January 2014. | 1 |
During a ceremony commemorating Rokeya Day on Thursday, Hasina asked for Saima, who is recognized for her efforts in addressing global child autism. Saima, born in 1973 in Dhaka and the granddaughter of Bangabandhu, serves on the National Advisory Committee for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders and is a member of the World Health Organization’s global Expert Advisory Panel on Mental Health. Hasina noted that in the past, parents used to hide their autistic or disabled children from the public, leading to harassment of mothers and even divorce cases over giving birth to such children. Saima Wazed has made a significant impact by empowering parents to openly discuss their autistic or disabled children, rather than hide them. She is a licensed school psychologist in the US and has been recognized for her work in autism and children's neurological disorders since 2008. In 2014, she was honored with the 'Excellence in Public Health' award from the WHO for her contributions in 11 Southeast Asian countries. She also received the 'International Champion Award' in 2017 from a New York-based school for children with autism. Saima, the daughter of nuclear scientist MA Wazed Miah, has also served as a thematic ambassador for the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF). Saima completed her psychology honours degree in 1997 and master's in clinical psychology in 2002 at Barry University in the US. She later obtained a specialist degree in school psychology. While at the university, she conducted a study on the development of Bangladeshi women, which was recognized as the best scientific presentation by the Florida Academy of Science. Saima's accomplishments also include organizing the first international conference on autism in Dhaka in 2011. She was named one of the 100 Innovative Women Leaders in Global Mental Health by the Global Mental Health Programs Consortium in 2019. Saima was instrumental in developing the Neurodevelopment Disability Trust Act 2013 for the country. Additionally, she holds the position of chairperson at the Shuchona Foundation, focusing on mental health concerns. She is also a trustee and vice-chairperson at the Centre for Research and Information (CRI), affiliated with the Awami League. | 1 |
Ugandan authorities discovered an unexploded suicide vest and made multiple arrests following bomb attacks at two bars that killed 76 soccer fans watching the World Cup final. The Somali al Shabaab Islamists, connected to al Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attacks, although a group official denied the involvement of suicide bombers. The vest was found in Makindye on Monday and was similar to evidence found at other blast sites in Kampala, according to Inspector General of Police Kale Kayihura. The vest was designed to be planted as an improvised bomb, rather than worn. A man named Yonis, who works as an assistant to al Shabaab spokesman Sheikh Ali Mohamud Rage, told Reuters over the phone that the presence of planted explosives indicates that there was no suicide bomb involved. Coordinated attacks are a common tactic used by al Qaeda and groups associated with Osama bin Laden's militant network. If these attacks are indeed the work of al Shabaab, it would be the first time the militants have extended their efforts for power beyond their borders. Some analysts have raised concerns about the possibility of support or funding from individuals in Uganda or foreign militants within al Shabaab. Abdi Samatar, a Somalia expert at the University of Minnesota, stated that whether they are Somalis or foreigners, the impact remains the same as foreign elements now control the al Shabaab group. Kayihura did not disclose the number or origin of suspects detained and increased the death toll to 76 from 74. The al Shabaab militants have warned of further attacks unless Uganda and Burundi remove their peacekeepers from AMISOM. They are in control of vast territories in the southern and central regions of the chaotic country. However, the regional bloc, IGAD, has stated that it will not back down in the face of threats and will continue to support the government in Somalia that is backed by Western powers. The executive secretary, Mahboud Maalim, announced plans to increase peacekeepers in Somalia to over 8,000 and aims to have the additional troops deployed by the second week of August. IGAD members, including Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Djibouti, have expressed their desire to eventually have 20,000 troops from the AU and United Nations stationed in Somalia. Meanwhile, Uganda's opposition party, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has called on President Yoweri Museveni to withdraw his peacekeepers and has suggested a withdrawal if they were to win the elections in 2011. FDC spokesman Wafula Oguttu told Reuters that there is no peace to maintain in Somalia and Uganda does not have any strategic interest there, so sacrificing their children for nothing. Analysts believe that a sustained bombing campaign would harm Uganda's investment climate, but a one-time attack would not discourage major companies like Tullow Oil from investing. Foreign direct investment in Uganda has increased due to oil exploration along the western border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. An American was killed in the attack, and the US State Department has three FBI agents on the ground gathering evidence. Opolot stated that there was no indication of the cancellation of the African Union summit to be held in Uganda this month, despite the presence of an extra team ready to be deployed. | 1 |
The cabinet approved the name change during a meeting at the Secretariat on Monday, chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam informed the media that the proposal for the name change had been previously submitted. Following an agreement with neighboring countries, the government decided to include 'Climate Change' in the name. The ministry will now be known as 'Poribesh, Bon o Jolbayu Poribartan' in Bangla and 'Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change' in English. The decision to change the name was made during the 4th meeting of the National Environment Committee on Aug 6, 2017. The new name will take effect once a notification signed by the president of Bangladesh is released. Bangladesh is considered one of the nations most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with global warming posing a significant challenge. Experts warn that if global warming persists, a substantial amount of land in Bangladesh could be submerged and around 2 billion people worldwide might be displaced. Since taking office in 2009, the Awami League government has established two distinct funds aimed at mitigating the impacts of climate change. The two funds are known as the Bangladesh Climate Change Trust (BCCT) and the Bangladesh Climate Change Resilience Fund (BCCRF). | 1 |
The departure of Rank from the State Department has been confirmed by a spokeswoman, who mentioned that he retired from the foreign service. The reason for his departure, as mentioned in Twitter posts, was his inability to deliver a formal notification to China about the US decision to quit the agreement. Iowa Governor Terry Branstad is expected to replace Rank as the next US ambassador to Beijing later this month. According to a tweet by China expert John Pomfret, unnamed sources stated that Rank resigned because he disagreed with Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris agreement. Pomfret also tweeted that Rank held a town hall meeting to inform embassy staff of his decision and explain that he could not deliver a diplomatic note to the Chinese government. A senior US official confirmed the information in the tweets, adding that Rank announced his intention to retire on Monday in Beijing but was then instructed by the State Department to leave his post immediately. The official spoke anonymously. Additionally, a separate US official said that on June 1, the US State Department accepted the resignation of its top personnel officer, who was one of the last remaining senior Obama administration political appointees. Arnold Chacon, who had held positions as director general of the foreign service and director of human resources, resigned from his position when President Trump was inaugurated on Jan. 20, as is customary for all presidential appointees. The news of Chacon's resignation was first reported by the DiploPundit website. It is uncertain at this time if he will be offered another role within the department. With the exception of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson, his deputy John Sullivan, and Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Tom Shannon, many of the State Department's top positions are currently either vacant or filled by acting officials. Chacon and Rank, a seasoned foreign service officer who recently became the deputy chief of mission in Beijing, were not available for immediate comment. Instead, Jonathan Fritz, the embassy's economics councillor, will temporarily take over as chargé, according to Richey-Allen. Rank had a long career with the department, including a stint as political councillor at the US Embassy in Afghanistan. President Trump's decision to withdraw the US from the Paris climate accord sparked backlash from global leaders and industry heads. | 1 |
China has urged President Barack Obama to increase the U.S. offer to reduce carbon emissions, but their top climate envoy expressed a willingness to compromise at a U.N. conference in Copenhagen. Xie Zhenhua stated that China aims to be constructive at the climate talks in December, emphasizing the importance of an agreement between the U.S. and China, as they are responsible for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Xie hopes that President Obama can make a substantial contribution to Copenhagen, beyond his current proposal of a 3 percent cut on 1990 levels by 2020. Additionally, Xie mentioned that China would be open to accepting a target to halve global emissions by 2050 if developed countries increase their emissions reduction goals by 2020 and provide financial assistance to developing nations to combat climate change. "We acknowledge the significance of having a long-term goal, but we believe that focusing on a mid-term target is more crucial in addressing the immediate issues. If we can meet the demands of developing nations, we can then consider setting an emissions target to reduce global emissions by half by 2050. The deputy chairman of the NDRC expressed his desire for developed countries to reduce their emissions by 25-40 percent below 1990 levels by 2020. He hopes that these emissions cuts will fall within the range of 25-40 percent below 1990 levels." Earlier this year, during previous rounds of U.N. talks, China had strongly advocated for a reduction of "at least 40 percent." Xie expressed his preference for a final, legally binding agreement to be reached during the meeting in Copenhagen, but stated that if that was not achievable, having a deadline to finalize a comprehensive treaty by June would be satisfactory. He dismissed a U.N. suggestion for fast-track funding of $10 billion annually from 2010-2012 as inadequate. | 1 |
In Zanesville, Ohio on Monday, Republican presidential nominee John McCain tried to distance himself from President George W. Bush, while Democrat Barack Obama sought to link them together during a day of intense campaigning. McCain stated on NBC's "Meet the Press" that although he shares the Republican Party's philosophy, he has opposed not only President Bush but other party members as well. Obama responded to McCain's remarks during a speech in Denver by pointing out their similarities and the fact that McCain was finally being honest about their common ground. Obama addressed a large crowd in Denver, stating that he will not allow George Bush to hand over power to John McCain. Despite being behind in opinion polls, McCain remains optimistic about the tightening race just before the upcoming election. McCain reflected on the anniversary of being shot down in Vietnam, emphasizing his dedication to serving the country. "I will advocate for you, my friends." Obama and his campaign have consistently tried to link McCain to Bush by highlighting the Arizona senator's voting record, where he supported the president 90 percent of the time. With ample campaign funds, the Obama team aired a TV ad featuring McCain alongside Bush, with the announcer criticizing McCain as being "out of ideas, out of touch, and out of time." McCain has stated that despite his respect for Bush, he has disagreed with him on various issues such as government spending, Iraq strategy, and climate change. He believes that the country has been led in the wrong direction by the Bush-McCain philosophy for the past eight years, and insists that another four years following the same path would be detrimental. Obama stated that it is time for a change in Washington and that is why he is running for president of the United States. According to recent polls, Obama is leading McCain in national opinion polls and in many battleground states, including Iowa, which was won by Bush in 2004. A new poll by Courier-Lee Enterprises showed that Obama has a 54 percent to 39 percent advantage in Iowa. However, a Reuters/C-SPAN/Zogby poll released on Sunday indicated a closer race overall, with Obama leading McCain by 49 percent to 44 percent among likely U.S. voters in the daily tracking poll. In this survey, the Illinois senator's lead has decreased over the past three days after peaking at 12 points on Thursday. Some Republicans are concerned that McCain's campaign has been inconsistent on various issues, putting not only the Republican Party's chances of retaining the White House at risk, but also jeopardizing many seats in the U.S. Congress. McCain expressed confidence, stating that they have made progress in the past week and if the momentum continues, they could be ahead on Election Night. He noted the enthusiasm and passion among voters, emphasizing that they are competitive and he is proud of the campaign he has run. McCain expressed his strong support for his vice presidential running mate Sarah Palin, despite the criticism she has faced. Many Americans have doubts about her readiness to be president, but McCain initially saw her as a valuable asset to his campaign. However, some conservatives question her experience and ability to step into the presidency if necessary. McCain chooses to praise Palin rather than defend her. McCain stated that Palin does not require any defense and he praised her for the way she energizes crowds. He addressed concerns about the Republican National Committee buying $150,000 worth of clothes for her and her family, explaining that some had been returned and the rest would be donated to charity. McCain also commended Palin for living a modest life and conducting herself admirably. | 1 |
The battle against climate change in the United States is no longer exclusive to Democrats. In the past, Democrats were known for their focus on environmental issues, attracting votes from their own party members and independent voters by emphasizing efforts to address global warming. Now, Republicans, traditionally associated with President George W. Bush, may also prioritize climate change in their election campaigns. This shift could distinguish Republican presidential candidates from the policies of the Bush administration, which have alienated the U.S. from other major developed countries. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman believes that climate change has the potential to garner support beyond party lines. After losing control of both houses of Congress in 2006, Republicans are in need of help. According to Mehlman, the party lost in 2006 because independents shifted away from them. In order to regain the confidence of independents, Mehlman suggests focusing on climate change as an issue that aligns with conservative values. Economic conservatives, who are typically Republicans, see technological solutions as a means to generate wealth and employment opportunities. Some corporate leaders support a federal carbon emissions limit to avoid conflicting state laws. Religious conservatives view reducing carbon emissions as part of caring for the environment as a divine responsibility. National security conservatives believe less reliance on foreign oil would weaken anti-U.S. groups. The current administration opposes the Kyoto Protocol, arguing that it would disadvantage the U.S. if countries like China and India were not required to comply. Republican Senator John Warner is leading the way in Congress by co-sponsoring a bill to limit carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change. Senator John McCain, who is currently the front-runner for the Republican presidential nomination, previously sponsored a climate change bill. This bipartisan effort is also supported by former Republican Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who is now running for president and has emphasized the importance of taking action to address climate change, despite lacking specific plans. In contrast, former Massachusetts Governor [name not provided] has not been as vocal on the issue. Mitt Romney emerged victorious in the recent Republican primary in Michigan, a state where his father once served as governor and home to the Big Three automakers. He criticized McCain's backing of increased fuel efficiency, arguing that it would negatively impact the U.S. auto industry. In California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger spearheaded an effort to implement stricter emissions standards for vehicles, which has been adopted by 16 other states. These states are awaiting approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for a waiver to enforce these standards. During a candidates' debate, McCain, Huckabee, and Romney all expressed support for the waiver, although Romney later adjusted his stance. In the race for the presidency, where the focus is on "change," both Democratic candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have shown strong support for cap-and-trade plans to reduce carbon emissions that contribute to climate change. Tony Kreindler of Environmental Defense believes that the bipartisan backing for limiting global warming pollution should alert Congress to take action. While polls indicate that climate change is not a top priority for U.S. voters compared to issues like the economy and the Iraq war, David Sandretti of the League of Conservation Voters disagrees, arguing that environmental concerns are interconnected with other important issues. Sandretti also points out the connections between climate change, national security, and the future of U.S. energy. Sandretti stated that addressing global warming is impossible without addressing the energy issue, as the energy issue is a significant factor in all aspects of America's political life. | 1 |
US singer Rihanna, climate change activist Greta Thunberg, and US lawyer and activist Meena Harris, the niece of Vice-President Kamala Harris, all took to social media to bring awareness to the struggles of farmers protesting against reforms. The Indian foreign ministry responded by emphasizing the importance of verifying facts and gaining a thorough understanding of the situation before making comments. | 1 |
After the brutal Liberation War lasting nine months in 1971, Bangladesh emerged victorious and gained the right to be recognized as a country on the global stage after declaring independence. Bangladesh recently marked the golden jubilee of independence and the centenary of Bangabandhu through a 10-day celebration, with a discussion held at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka on the theme "Banglar Mati, Amar Mati" (Bengal's Soil, My Soil). The event was attended by author Selina Hossain, Education Minister Dipu Moni, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam, as well as Nepal's President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Bangladesh's President Md Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Selina emphasized that Sheikh Mujib established the foundation of the secular Bengali nationalist identity worldwide. She mentioned that Bangabandhu had requested to change the name of East Pakistan to Purbo Bangla during his speech to the assembly on August 25, 1955. She quoted his words, stating that he would not dishonour his Bengali nation in his death and would not beg for forgiveness. She also quoted from a speech delivered by Bangabandhu after his release from a Pakistani jail, where he proclaimed "Joy Bangla, Free Bangla, Bengali is my nation, Bangla is my language, the land of Bangla is my place." Shahriar quoted from a rally on June 7, 1972, where Bangabandhu declared, "Today I can say that I am a Bengali; I can say that Bengali is a nation; I can say that Bangla's soil is my soil." She emphasized that despite his killers taking him away, they continue to follow the path he laid out for them. Dipu Moni described him as the eternal source of their inspiration, while Bhandari emphasized that Bangabandhu had not only captured the affection of Bengalis but also held a respected position as a leader in the region. Hamid urged politicians to set aside their differences and focus on helping the country's marginalized population, using the spirit of independence and Bangabandhu's principles to guide them towards a better future. To mark both occasions, Hasina urged world leaders to prioritize sustainable development and cautioned that efforts to adapt to climate change will not be effective in protecting the most vulnerable countries unless the current trend is reversed. The second session of the event featured a performance by an orchestra, traditional Nepalese dance, and a Jatrapala drama titled 'Ma, Mati O Manush'. Following this, 100 folk singers performed together in chorus. The President of the Maldives Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Mahinda Rajapaksa have already traveled to Bangladesh to participate in the festivities, while the Prime Minister of Bhutan Lotay Tshering and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are among those who have been invited. | 1 |
Italy's Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi is at risk of losing his stronghold in Milan to the left for the first time in 20 years, following local elections that have exposed the vulnerability of his centre-right coalition. The focus is on key battlegrounds in Milan and Naples, with voting starting at 7 a.m. and results expected in the evening. The government is under pressure to reduce the budget deficit by 40 billion euros after Standard and Poor's downgraded Italy's rating, making the outcome of these elections crucial. A defeat in Milan would further weaken Berlusconi, who is already facing challenges from scandals, trials, and a struggling economy. Italy has a high public debt of around 120 percent of gross domestic product, but it has not experienced the same financial market problems as Greece and Portugal. However, a recent warning from S&P served as a reminder of the consequences of not taking action. The newspaper Il Sole 24 Ore questioned whether the current government would be able to effectively address this issue. Berlusconi faced defeat in the first round of voting in May, with the center left easily maintaining power in Turin and Bologna and forcing the center right into run-offs in Naples and Milan. A defeat would likely worsen tensions with his key ally, the Northern League, and could lead to challenges to his established leadership of the center right, although senior ministers have stated that there will be no change in direction until the next national elections in 2013. Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa, a loyal supporter of Berlusconi, expressed confidence that there is no possibility of an alternative government or early elections. In Milan, where Berlusconi built his wealth and political career, outgoing center-right mayor Letizia Moratti is trailing behind leftist Giuliano Pisapia in the first-round vote. Some Milan residents believe that the city is experiencing a noticeable shift in political climate. Voters in Italy have been influenced by regional issues such as transportation problems and the ongoing garbage crisis in Naples, but the struggling national economy has been the main focus during the elections. Italy has had a slow economy for more than ten years, with high youth unemployment and the average Italian now poorer than a decade ago. The government had to lower its growth forecast for the year and next year due to economic challenges. Despite concerns about Italy's debt and slow growth, the Treasury was able to sell long-term bonds successfully. Berlusconi, facing criticism for his handling of the elections, has been using his usual tactics to attack his opponents in the media. He predicted that if the left wins, Milan will turn into an "Islamic gypsyland." He also stated that leftist voters lacked intelligence, leading to Internet spoofs and a lawsuit from an offended voter. A rant against Italian magistrates at the Group of Eight summit in Deauville, France caused Economy Undersecretary Daniela Melchiorre, a former magistrate, to resign in protest. | 1 |
Three additional members of the US Congress have joined the Congressional Caucus for Bangladesh. Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford and New York congressmen Mike McMahon and Scott Murphy made the announcement during a meeting of the new alliance 'New Democratic Coalition Pact' on Monday. The congressmen have committed to advocating for Bangladesh's interests on issues such as climate change, environment, and the proposed Indian construction of the Tipai Dam. Representing the Bangladeshi community at the meeting were Hasanuzaman Hasan from the Bangladeshi-American Public Affairs Front and Gias Ahmed, a US-based BNP leader. Congressman Joseph Crowley, who serves as co-chairman of the Bangladesh Caucus, informed the meeting that he is actively working towards securing duty-free access for Bangladeshi readymade garments in the US market. He was additionally interested in providing expatriate Bangladeshis with legal status to reside and work in the US. Currently, there are around 39 congressmen who are part of the Bangladesh Caucus. Recently, Patrick Kennedy, the son of the late senator Edward Kennedy who was a strong supporter of Bangladesh, also joined the Bangladeshi Caucus in America. | 1 |
Labor has regained power after being in opposition for nine years, thanks to strong support for the Greens and climate-focused independents in the recent general election. New Prime Minister Albanese expressed his commitment to leading a government that unites Australians rather than dividing them. Despite ongoing vote counting, Albanese was sworn in to attend a meeting of the "Quad" security grouping in Tokyo. He acknowledged the challenges in the country's relationship with China as he prepared to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden and the prime ministers of Japan and India. Deputy Labor leader Richard Marles, along with three key ministers - Penny Wong in foreign affairs, Jim Chalmers as treasurer, and Katy Gallagher in finance - were sworn in. Wong will be joining Albanese on the Quad trip. Labor's campaign focused heavily on Albanese's working-class background, being raised in public housing by a single mother on a disability pension, and his reputation as a unifier. Center-left Labor is currently leading in 76 seats in the 151 seat lower house, with some races still too close to call. Independents or the Green party are expected to win more than a dozen seats as postal votes are counted. "Teal independents" campaigning in wealthy, Liberal-held areas on platforms of climate change, integrity, and equality could have a significant impact. Independent Monique Ryan emphasized that climate change was the top concern for voters in her electorate of Kooyong in Melbourne, a sentiment echoed by outgoing Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Ryan stated that their platform was shaped by listening to constituents' values and desires. Opposition leader Albanese expressed his ambition for Labor to win enough seats to govern independently, while also highlighting agreements with certain independents to not support no-confidence motions. Upon his return from Japan, Albanese plans to swiftly fulfill his election promises, such as establishing a national anti-corruption commission and a A$15 billion manufacturing fund. The full ministry will be sworn in on June 1. Australian financial markets did not have a strong reaction to the election results on Monday because the outcome was already anticipated and there was no expectation of significant changes in economic direction. Economists at Commonwealth Bank of Australia stated that their economic forecasts and predictions for the Reserve Bank of Australia remain the same despite the change in national leadership. | 1 |
Despite all the attention on the 2008 presidential campaign, Republicans are also focusing on regaining control of the U.S. Senate, which they narrowly lost to the Democrats last year. The Democrats currently hold a slim 51-49 majority, with 34 Senate seats up for election in November 2008. Experts believe that the Democrats are in a strong position to maintain their majority, as they only need to defend 12 seats compared to the Republicans' 22. Jennifer Duffy, a Senate race expert at the Cook Political Report, sees potential for Democrats in the upcoming election, but is unsure if it will be realized. She stated that she believes the majority is not up for grabs, and that the Republicans are focused on minimizing their losses. The control of the Senate will be important for the White House in the upcoming year, regardless of who replaces Bush. A president's policies can succeed or fail in the Senate, as major bills often require 60 votes to overcome obstacles and be passed. Anthony Corrado, a government professor at Colby College in Maine, predicts that Senate races will be dominated by issues such as the prolonged Iraq war, a weak economy, disagreements over tax cuts, and debates about climate change. "This upcoming election will see the Republicans playing defense," he stated, with a focus on arguments for change prevailing in political conversations. Duffy cautioned that it was not certain that Democrats would gain many seats. According to an ABC News/Washington Post poll, support for Democrats has decreased by 10 points since April to 44 percent. The Democrats won power in 2006 with a promise to start pulling troops out of Iraq, but have yet to fulfill that pledge. September may prove to be a critical moment as Congress is set to discuss multiple anti-war proposals. There are a number of Republicans who are considered vulnerable and could be defeated in order to increase the Democrats' majority in the Senate. Some of these Republicans include Minnesota Senator Norm Coleman, Maine Senator Susan Collins, New Hampshire Senator John Sununu, and the seat being vacated by Colorado Senator Wayne Allard. On the other hand, Democrats must also defend seats held by Senator Mary Landrieu in Louisiana, Senator Mark Pryor in Arkansas, and Senator Tim Johnson in South Dakota, who is recovering from brain surgery. Republicans have not yet chosen a candidate to run against Landrieu, and there is speculation that former Arkansas Governor... Mike Huckabee might choose to abandon his plans to run for president and instead run against Pryor. According to Sen. John Ensign, the head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Republican Party has a good chance of performing better than expected. Ensign pointed out that in the past, the odds makers were wrong in predicting the outcome of Senate elections. He believes that running elections and analyzing the results is the best way to determine the outcome. Ensign also mentioned that the Democrats' stance on reversing tax cuts and their opposition to the Iraq war could work in favor of the Republicans, who lost Senate control in 2006 after losing six seats. Senator Charles Schumer of New York, the Democratic counterpart to Ensign, argues that the Iraq war, now in its fifth year, will benefit his party. He emphasizes that Democrats have a track record of balancing the budget, which he believes will resonate with voters. Schumer, who leads the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, states that Republicans have lost touch and that his party will come in with a mandate for change. If senators like John Warner of Virginia and Pete Domenici of New Mexico retire, Republicans could face an even tougher battle as more seats become up for grabs. Additionally, fundraising is another challenge for Republicans, as the Democratic campaign has raised twice as much money as their Republican counterparts in the first four months of 2007, with $18.3 million compared to $9.1 million. In a closely contested Minnesota election, comedian Al Franken, the top Democratic candidate, has raised $1.35 million in the first quarter, putting up a strong performance compared to the $1.53 million raised by Coleman. | 1 |
Just prior to the start of new climate talks in Glasgow, the G20 countries announced their commitment on Sunday to stop financing coal-fired power plants abroad. This decision came after Chinese President Xi Jinping made a similar promise to the United Nations General Assembly in September. Recent research from Boston University's Global Development Policy Center revealed that 99 percent of all development finance institutions have now agreed to reduce investments in coal and increase support for renewable energy. Rebecca Ray, a senior researcher at the GDP Center, noted that if these institutions uphold their promises, it will be easier for developing nations to secure official financing for renewable energy projects and phasing out coal power, rather than building new coal-fired plants. The study identified three major institutions that have not yet made this commitment - the Development Bank of Latin America, the Islamic Development Bank, and the New Development Bank - although many of the main shareholders in these institutions were part of the G20 pledge. The study noted that Xi's announcement in September regarding China's withdrawal from overseas coal projects had a significant impact, as it removed major financial support for coal-fired power from institutions like the China Development Bank and the Export-Import Bank of China. The decision led to immediate action from the Bank of China, which pledged to halt new overseas coal projects in October. A specialist involved in developing guidelines for decarbonizing China's Belt and Road investments stated that Chinese financial institutions were already aware of the declining demand for coal power, which facilitated the implementation of Xi's directive. The specialist emphasized the seriousness of the institutions in complying with the order, noting their lack of interest in finding excuses to continue coal projects and their focus on reasons to discontinue them. Analysts believe that China's decision to withdraw from coal investments is a significant move, as coal is struggling to compete with renewable energy sources. The decision reflects a convergence of political, economic, and climate interests, with many predicting that coal assets will soon become obsolete. Matt Gray of TransitionZero noted that China's experience with financing coal projects through the Belt and Road Initiative was not successful, with issues arising from host countries defaulting on debt. This decision is seen as a response to changing economic conditions and political signals indicating a need to stop investing in coal. | 1 |
Leaders from the Asia-Pacific region have promised to increase free trade and improve security following their two-day summit in Hanoi, Vietnam. The "Hanoi Declaration" outlines key points agreed upon by the 21-member group, which represents a significant portion of global trade. Some of the commitments include resolving issues in global trade talks, considering a potential Asia-Pacific free trade area, and establishing non-binding and voluntary measures for free trade arrangements. Member countries were urged to address piracy and copyright violations, while also condemning North Korea's nuclear test in a closed-door statement. The importance of safeguarding financial and commercial systems was acknowledged, with a nod to the measures taken by the United States against North Korea. Additionally, a study on trade recovery in the event of a terrorist attack or pandemic was welcomed, and collaboration on bird flu, including response development and continuity planning, was agreed upon. The initiatives to reduce the terrorist threat to the APEC food supply are appreciated. Measures will be taken to prevent corrupt individuals from benefiting from their illegal activities. APEC ministers will provide a report in 2007 on policies to promote cleaner energy and increase energy efficiency. Energy policies that eliminate market distortions and improve energy security will be encouraged. | 1 |
A climate change directorate will be established within the environment ministry, following the approval of a proposal during a trustee board meeting led by state minister for environment Hassan Mahmud. Five proposals were conditionally approved at the meeting, along with final approval for 33 non-government projects and 44 government projects. Additionally, permission was granted to purchase machinery for the Karnafuli Jute Mills and Forat Karnafuli Carpet Factory using funds allocated for climate change initiatives. He mentioned that the army's projects to build solar power plants at various military locations, including its headquarters, received conditional final approval. He also stated that projects by non-governmental agencies were approved after a reduction in budget. These organizations had originally requested up to Tk 50 million, but will now receive between Tk 2 million and 10 million under the revised budget. | 1 |
Officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency stated that the global financial crisis is not expected to diminish the increasing long-term demand for new nuclear power plants. They are meeting in Beijing to discuss the future of atomic power in the face of economic challenges, climate change concerns, and tensions surrounding nuclear programs in countries like North Korea and Iran. Despite difficulties in funding new nuclear projects due to the financial crisis, the need for energy security and addressing global warming is likely to outweigh the negative impact on the nuclear sector. Dong Batong, from China's atomic energy industry association, stated that China remains dedicated to significantly increasing its nuclear power capacity despite a slowdown in growth. He emphasized that nuclear power is being used as a key strategy to boost domestic demand, with numerous new nuclear units currently being constructed or planned throughout the country. The International Atomic Energy Agency reports that nuclear power supplies 14 percent of global electricity and this percentage is expected to rise as countries aim to reduce costs and greenhouse gas emissions. The majority of this growth is anticipated to occur in Asia, with China leading the way in terms of nuclear power plant construction, followed by India and South Korea. Yuri Sokolov, the deputy director-general of the IAEA, emphasized the need for developing countries to expand nuclear energy in a safe and regulated manner to prevent safety risks and weapons proliferation. He mentioned that even countries like North Korea, currently facing criticism for its actions, have the right to nuclear power plants as long as they cooperate with the international community and adhere to regulations. Sokolov stated that every country is entitled to a civilian nuclear program and that support from the international community can be provided if cooperation is ensured. North Korea withdrew from the IAEA and recently removed IAEA officials who were invited to monitor a closed nuclear facility that North Korea plans to reopen. Mohamed ElBaradei, the director-general of the IAEA, will deliver the opening speech at the nuclear energy meeting on Monday. | 1 |
The European Union continues to maintain its stance that the UN talks in Bali should establish strict guidelines for wealthy nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2020, despite opposition from the US. European Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas reiterated the EU's insistence on including a target for emissions reductions for developed countries by 2020. However, the EU did not specifically mention their previous demand for cuts of 25 to 40 percent below 1990 levels. A compromise draft text was proposed at the Dec. 3-14 meeting, which aims to kickstart negotiations for a global agreement to combat climate change. This draft dropped the ambitious goal of significant emissions cuts by 2020 for rich countries, but still included a target to halve global emissions by 2050. | 1 |
Germany, as the President of the European Union and Group of Eight, called on world leaders to come together to address global warming, which was described as one of the most significant threats facing the world. Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the urgency of taking action on climate change during a security conference in Munich, stressing that it is a threat that affects everyone and requires coordinated efforts from all nations. In attendance were Russian President Vladimir Putin, US Defense Secretary Robert Gates, and US Senator for Arizona John McCain. The United States, Russia, and China have been hesitant to participate in international efforts to address climate change. However, Merkel has made combating global warming a key focus of Germany's leadership in the EU and G8. She aims to urge countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions, conserve energy, and transition to renewable fuels. Additionally, she has discussed advancing a framework agreement to reduce greenhouse gases post-2020 when the Kyoto Protocol expires. Germany's coalition between the left and right wings is internally divided on a number of energy policies, and the government has opposed certain European Union efforts to reduce emissions. | 1 |
The United States does not anticipate reaching a climate change agreement with China during President Obama's upcoming visit to Beijing, according to Todd Stern, the US Special Envoy for Climate Change. Stern stated that the goal of the visit is to establish a common understanding with President Hu in order to facilitate an agreement at the upcoming Copenhagen negotiations in December. The United States is hesitant to commit to a deal that does not require developing countries like China to agree to mandatory CO2 reduction targets. Chinese negotiators have also expressed that the industrialized world should take on the majority of the responsibility for reducing carbon emissions. The meeting between Obama and President Hu Jintao, who lead the world's two largest greenhouse gas emitters, is considered essential in the efforts to establish a consensus on a new global climate agreement. Democratic Senator Maria Cantwell stated in Beijing that China and the US are expected to sign a bilateral agreement during Obama's visit, although Washington is not seeking a separate deal. Discussions on issues such as carbon capture and storage are likely to occur next month, but analysts believe that differences between the two sides will make it challenging to reach a substantive agreement. Paul Harris, a professor of global and environmental studies at the Hong Kong Institute of Education, expressed skepticism about the possibility of significant progress being made towards a climate deal in the lead-up to the Copenhagen conference. He noted that while there may be a lot of positive talk and kind words, he believes that concrete action may not materialize yet. With the conference just six weeks away, Stern also cautioned that success was not guaranteed, emphasizing that while a deal could be reached in Copenhagen, it was not a certainty. Analysts highlight the importance of the Obama administration's efforts to pass its own climate plan before the end of the year, with the US Senate Environment Committee currently holding hearings on a new climate bill. The administration has been encouraging Congress to make progress, and any additional postponements could harm the reputation of the United States in the Copenhagen talks. | 1 |
Under the immense canopy of the Amazon jungle, Brazilian Indians and officials called on U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon to garner international support in protecting the world's largest rainforest. Brazilian Environment Minister Marina Silva emphasized the need for concrete mechanisms that would benefit the Amazon's residents during a meeting with Ban at a Samauma tree near Belem, the largest city in the Amazon. Ban, who had just completed a tour of South America focusing on the potential effects of global warming and visited Antarctica, was urged by Amazon Indian Marcos Apurina to help create economic opportunities for forest dwellers. Ban, who explored a jungle trail on Combu island, vowed the support of the United Nations in this endeavor. This is a resource that belongs to all people on Earth." Previously, Ban interacted with a three-toed sloth and planted two indigenous trees at a botanical garden in Belem. Ban is getting ready for a UN climate change conference in Bali, Indonesia, later this year, which will initiate discussions on reducing carbon emissions once the Kyoto Protocol ends in 2012. Brazil is responsible for the world's fourth-highest amount of carbon emissions primarily due to the Amazon rainforest's destruction, as per global environmental organizations. Ban did not address Brazil's decision to not set goals for decreasing deforestation and carbon emissions. Instead, he praised Brazil for its efforts to reduce forest destruction by 50 percent in two years, despite the fact that the rate has increased again since August. The Amazon emits carbon dioxide when trees are burned or decompose, contributing to global warming. Farmers and loggers clear large portions of the forest every year, depending on the prices of grain, beef, or timber. Silva, a former rubber tapper and activist, asked Ban to help overcome resistance from some Western countries to a proposal in the international Convention on Biodiversity that would require pharmaceutical companies to pay for drugs made from Amazon plants. Silva said Ban listened and promised to consider the proposal after a meeting on Monday. Scientists warn that global warming may transform a portion of the Amazon into semi-arid savanna in the coming decades. Severe weather events have led to both droughts and floods in various areas. Secretary-General Ban's scheduled trip along an Amazon tributary near Santarem had to be cancelled due to low water levels. While commending Brazil for its work on low-emission biofuels, Ban emphasized the importance of further international research on the potential impact of large-scale production on food supplies. Over the weekend, he visited a plant in Sao Paulo state that contributes to Brazil's status as one of the largest and most cost-effective ethanol producers. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's administration has heightened the frequency of police operations against illegal loggers and enlarged designated conservation areas. However, there are concerns among conservationists that the construction of roads and hydroelectric plants under this government could potentially lead to an increase in deforestation over time. | 1 |
The prime minister addressed the issue during the opening of the 'World Environment Day and Environment Fair 2017 and National Tree Planting Project and Tree Planting Day 2017' at the Bangabandhu International Convention Centre. She emphasized the importance of protecting the Sundarbans while implementing development projects. Despite protests from environmentalists and leftist groups, the government has assured that the coal-based power plant in Rampal will not cause harm to the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 during an Awami League government led by Hasina. Hasina stated that they have consistently safeguarded the Sundarbans. She emphasized the importance of the mangrove forest in saving Bangladesh. The government is working on expanding the forest through artificial methods. The Awami League government has successfully increased the forest area by 17 percent and aims for a 25 percent increase. Hasina highlighted the government's focus on maintaining a balance between environmental protection and socially responsible forestry. She suggested the idea of 'smart patrolling' for safeguarding the region and mentioned various measures being implemented to provide alternative employment for those dependent on the Sundarbans. The establishment of a 'green seawall' to protect against hurricanes and floods was emphasized as crucial. The Prime Minister also highlighted the creation of a trust fund to combat climate change, with Tk 31 billion already allocated. She expressed disappointment that many developing countries had not contributed to the fund. She stated that despite receiving numerous promises, they only received minimal financial assistance. However, they have effectively utilized whatever support they did receive. The prime minister mentioned that Bangladesh has demonstrated self-reliance and is gaining recognition for their independent efforts. | 1 |
Delegates at climate talks in Bali are close to finalizing guidelines for a pay-and-preserve scheme for forests as part of a future agreement to combat global warming, according to Indonesia's foreign minister. The scheme, known as Reduced Emissions from Deforestation in Developing Countries (REDD), could potentially allow poor nations to earn billions of dollars from trading carbon credits by preserving forests, which scientists say play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide emissions. Developed countries have shown enthusiasm for the importance of forests in addressing climate change, as deforestation in the tropics is responsible for a significant portion of man-made CO2 emissions. This gas is a major contributor to global warming, which is predicted to lead to rising seas, glacier melt, and extreme weather events, as warned by the UN Climate Panel. Developed nations and countries with extensive forested areas have agreed to work together to create a global map with the involvement of not only governments but also other institutions such as universities and research organizations. The issue of curbing deforestation has been a major topic of discussion at the Bali conference, as the current U.N. climate agreement, the Kyoto Protocol, does not provide incentives for developing nations to preserve their rainforests. The REDD scheme would offer carbon credits to eligible developing countries, which wealthier nations could purchase to offset their own emissions. However, there is a debate over whether future discussions on deforestation should be expanded to include other forms of land use, with the United States supporting this idea and many developing countries opposing it, according to an Indonesian forestry official. The official informed Reuters that the proposal may shift the focus away from forests, complicate the plan, and cause further delays in its implementation. The Bali meeting has agreed to support individual countries in running projects to prepare for REDD and will continue to research the issue. The World Bank has initiated a $300 million fund to combat global warming by preserving forests, including a $100 million "readiness" fund for grants to help around 20 countries prepare for large-scale forest protection projects. These grants will support activities such as surveys of existing forest resources, development of monitoring systems, and improved governance. A separate $200 million "carbon finance mechanism" will enable some countries to implement pilot programs that earn credits for reducing deforestation. Indonesia, a strong advocate for REDD, ranks among the top three countries in the world for greenhouse gas emissions due to deforestation, peatland degradation, and forest fires, as reported earlier this year by the World Bank and Britain's development arm. The country has over 225 million acres of forest land, which accounts for approximately 10 percent of the world's remaining tropical forests, according to rainforestweb.org. | 1 |
A senior trade and industry official from Japan stated that they believe 2005 would be a suitable base year for calculating cuts in greenhouse gas emissions under a future climate agreement following the Kyoto Protocol. Japan has rejected the idea of using 1990 as the base year, citing unfairness to Japanese industry. However, they have not specified an alternative base year. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) spokesperson mentioned that Vice Minister Takao Kitabata considers 2005 to be a fair base year. This proposal may face opposition from the European Union, which has committed to reducing emissions by 20 percent by 2020 compared to 1990 levels. Approximately 190 countries came to an agreement during UN-led discussions in Bali the previous year to begin two-year talks on a new agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto Protocol currently only requires wealthy nations to reduce emissions by an average of five percent between 2008 and 2012 compared to 1990 levels. The successor to Kyoto would encompass all nations, as acknowledged by the "Bali roadmap," which also highlighted the necessity for significant reductions in global emissions. However, there are significant discrepancies regarding the specific targets that should be binding and the reference year for these targets. | 1 |
Dozens of world leaders will meet in Washington for a conference on nuclear security, where US President Barack Obama hopes they can reach an agreement on preventing terrorists from obtaining atomic bombs. While the focus of the meeting is not on individual nations, discussions on Iran and North Korea's nuclear programs are expected to arise during bilateral meetings and speeches. Chinese President Hu Jintao's attendance at the summit is seen as a win for Obama, signaling Beijing's commitment to maintaining strong Sino-US relations despite tensions on other issues. A draft communique circulating among attendees includes a US proposal to secure all vulnerable nuclear material within four years, with the final text likely to be revised before the conclusion of the meeting on April 13th. Analysts and diplomats from the Western countries believe that the summit meeting in Washington is extremely significant, being one of the largest since World War Two. According to Ian Kearns from the British American Security Information Council, nuclear security is often viewed as a technical issue only concerning those worried about nuclear terrorism. However, if leaders at the summit handle it correctly, they could improve nuclear safety for combating climate change, reinforce non-proliferation efforts, and enhance international trust in nuclear disarmament. The meeting will be attended by leaders such as China's Hu, Russia's Medvedev, France's Sarkozy, and Germany's Merkel. India and Pakistan, both non-signatories of the 1970 Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty with their own nuclear weapons, will also be present, along with Israel, which is not part of the NPT but is believed to possess atomic arms. Iran and North Korea have not been invited to the meeting, while Pakistan has been included because it has shown commitment to improving its internal safeguards. Abdul Qadeer Khan, a disgraced Pakistani scientist, was involved in providing atomic technology to Iran, North Korea, and Libya. Both Iran and North Korea are under UN sanctions for their nuclear activities. Joe Cirincione, a professor at Georgetown University, believes that the plan to secure nuclear materials globally within four years could greatly enhance global security. He stated that if they carry out this plan, it could effectively prevent nuclear terrorism by preventing radicals from obtaining the one component of the bomb they are unable to create themselves. Cirincione expressed his desire to see if the final statement is more than a brief press release, if the action plan includes specific goals and deadlines, if major nations commit to securing their weapons material within four years, and if the countries agree to reconvene in two years to evaluate progress. The summit aims to bring together a diverse group of countries with nuclear programs to collect dangerous atomic material from vulnerable nuclear, defense, and medical facilities worldwide, a task that Russia and the United States have been working on with the assistance of the UN atomic watchdog for a long time. If successful, the summit could demonstrate to the world that the international community is united in enhancing nuclear security and that Washington is playing a leading role. The White House recently introduced a new policy that limits US use of nuclear weapons, while also cautioning Iran and North Korea that they could still be potential targets. The Nuclear Posture Review, a change from the previous US administration, stated that Washington will not create any new nuclear weapons. Analysts believe that this, along with the commitment from Obama and Medvedev to reduce nuclear arsenals, and a successful nuclear summit, could pave the way for a successful NPT meeting in New York next month to update the 40-year-old arms pact. The NPT has faced challenges such as North Korea's withdrawal, Iran's pursuit of nuclear technology for potential weapons, and developing nations accusing major nuclear powers of not fulfilling disarmament promises. Potential UN sanctions against Iran for its nuclear program will be discussed at a meeting in New York involving envoys from the US, UK, France, Germany, China, and Russia. UN diplomats are prepared to discuss Iran at the summit if Obama desires. | 1 |
Despite a positive report on German business sentiment, concerns regarding the US economy and issues in the banking sector continued to weigh on investor confidence on Wednesday. The dollar and stocks remained under pressure, but interest in commodities like oil, gold, and industrial metals increased due to the weakening greenback. Deutsche Bank's warning about potential credit market impacts on 2008 profits, along with data showing a drop in US consumer confidence and a decrease in new orders for US manufactured goods, led investors to proceed with caution. Wall Street was expected to open lower with major stock index futures all showing losses. Sean Maloney, a fixed-income strategist at Nomura in London, stated that there is still apprehension in the banking sector. He pointed out that Deutsche Bank's announcement was a reminder that JPMorgan increasing its bid for Bear Stearns does not resolve all the issues for the financial sector. Earlier news of JPMorgan significantly raising its takeover offer for Bear Stearns had led to a surge in financial stocks worldwide and alleviated concerns about a sector struggling with a credit crunch. The FTSEurofirst 300 index of top European shares dropped by 0.9 percent, while Germany's DAX declined by 0.7 percent, particularly with Deutsche Bank falling by about 2 percent. London's FTSE 100 index also fell by 0.7 percent, mostly due to a nearly 7 percent drop in Swiss miner Xtrata following the breakdown of takeover discussions with Vale, the world's largest iron ore miner. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei ended down by 0.3 percent, but MSCI's measurement of other Asian stock markets increased by 0.7 percent. MSCI's primary global stock index increased by 0.2 percent. The dollar weakened compared to other major currencies, with the dollar index dropping by 0.8 percent due to ongoing worries about the US economy. On the other hand, positive data indicating a rise in the German business climate index, based on a survey of approximately 7,000 businesses, from 104.1 in February to a better-than-expected 104.8, helped push the euro up. The euro climbed around 0.7 percent to $1.5736 for the day, also receiving a boost from comments made by European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet that suggested no immediate interest rate cuts. Trichet, speaking before an economic committee of the European Parliament, stated that the ECB believes the current monetary policy will help maintain price stability in the medium term. In the world of commodities, US light crude for May delivery increased by $1.25 to $102.47, while the price of gold rose to $947.70 per ounce, up from around $934.60 per ounce in New York on Tuesday. Copper for three-month delivery on the London Metal Exchange was last traded at $8,155 per tonne, showing a 0.8 percent increase. Despite a pessimistic US economic outlook, global demand for many commodities is expected to remain strong, particularly due to thriving economies like China. Shuji Sugata, a manager at Mitsubishi Corp Futures and Securities Ltd in Tokyo, noted that the fall of the dollar has led to increased buying, although traders are hesitant to take significant positions before the end of the quarter. Concerns about the US economy have bolstered demand for safe-haven U.S. Treasuries, resulting in the benchmark 10-year yield dropping by about 5 basis points to 3.457 percent. German 10-year bonds did not perform as well as US bonds, influenced by Trichet's remarks and new bond issuance. The 10-year yield remained relatively stable at 3.887 percent. | 1 |
Poor countries criticized rich nations for being stingy at the conclusion of UN climate talks in POZNAN, Poland. They were disappointed with the small size of the Adaptation Fund, which is only $80 million, as it is seen as a negative sign halfway through the two-year negotiations for a new global warming treaty to be finalized in Copenhagen in 2009. Colombian Environment Minister Juan Lozano expressed sadness and disappointment at the talks, emphasizing that the human impact of climate change on orphans and victims was not given enough consideration. This lack of support is viewed as a troubling indication for the upcoming Copenhagen summit. Indian delegate Prodipto Ghosh expressed his sorrow at the current situation during the 189-nation talks, noting that it was one of the saddest moments he had seen in his 12 years of attending U.N. climate meetings. Other countries such as Brazil, Costa Rica, and Maldives echoed similar sentiments. Many delegates were hopeful that the incoming U.S. President, Barack Obama, would implement more stringent climate policies. At the talks in Poland, environment ministers established rules for the Adaptation Fund, aimed at assisting developing nations in creating flood defenses, cultivating drought-resistant crops, and issuing storm warnings. Polish Environment Minister Maciej Nowicki, who was hosting the talks, stated that the launch of the fund was the most significant achievement of the conference in Poznan. The fund, which could begin distributing money in 2009, currently has $80 million but has the potential to increase to $300 million annually by 2012. According to U.N. projections, developing countries will require tens of billions of dollars per year by 2030 to address the effects of climate change. Poland spent 24 million euros ($31.84 million) to host the conference from December 1-12. Developing nations alleged that wealthy countries hindered an agreement in Poznan on a broader funding mechanism that could generate approximately $2 billion annually. This matter was postponed until 2009. Yvo de Boer, the leader of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, stated that the negotiations had accomplished their goals but admitted there was some discontent. He noted that only half of the work for Copenhagen had been completed. However, he believed that the main objective of the Poznan talks was achieved, which was to assess progress towards a new global climate treaty to be finalized in Copenhagen in December 2009 as a replacement for the Kyoto Protocol. Environmentalists had a different perspective on the outcome. Stephanie Tunmore from the Greenpeace environmental group expressed deep disappointment with the lack of progress in the meeting. She noted that the stocktaking process was not challenging, as not much had been accomplished in 2008. Environmentalists criticized Australia, Canada, Japan, and New Zealand for hindering progress and not setting ambitious targets to reduce emissions. In contrast, countries like Mexico, China, and South Africa presented proposals to address the issue of increasing emissions. European Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas stated that discussions were progressing well and that the effort to combat climate change is in line with addressing the economic crisis. European Union ministers in Poznan were pleased after EU leaders in Brussels reached an agreement to reduce greenhouse gases by 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, although concessions had to be made to east European countries. The Adaptation Fund, which raises funds through a 2 percent levy on U.N. projects aimed at reducing emissions in developing nations, has collected 60 million euros ($80 million) to date. | 1 |
The popularity of Australia's conservative Prime Minister John Howard has declined in recent opinion polls, with support shifting towards his new rival Kevin Rudd. Despite this, analysts believe that Howard still has a chance to win a fifth term in office in the upcoming national elections. Howard, 67, has faced a significant drop in poll numbers, particularly against Rudd, 49, who became the leader of the centre-left Labour opposition party in December. Rudd has garnered support with promises to withdraw Australian troops from Iraq and sign the Kyoto protocol on climate change. However, analysts believe that Howard can regain support when voters focus on his strengths in the economy and national security. Monash University political analyst Nick Economou stated that the government's fate lies in the hands of the Reserve Bank. With unemployment at a record low and inflationary pressures easing in Australia, supporters of Howard are optimistic that the central bank will cease its cycle of interest rate hikes and possibly consider a rate cut by the end of the year. Economou suggested that an early rate cut could be detrimental for Labour and might prompt Howard to call for elections as soon as August. However, it is more likely that the government will use its May budget to shift the focus back to the economy. Economou speculated that the government may announce significant tax cuts in the budget, which would redirect the debate back to the economy and play to Howard's strengths. According to the latest Reuters Poll Trend, Howard's Liberal-National Party coalition was trailing Labour by 13.4 points in February, marking the worst result for the government since March 2001. The latest polls indicate that Howard's lead as preferred prime minister has diminished to Rudd, marking the first time since May 2001 that Howard has fallen behind. Howard seemed shaken by the February polls, as evidenced by a rare mistake in parliament where he initially denied a link between greenhouse gases and global warming. Although he later corrected himself, the damage was done as his comments were already broadcast on evening news bulletins, further weakening his government's support on environmental issues. Additionally, Howard faced criticism and backlash for his unscripted remarks regarding Barack Obama's plan to withdraw US troops from Iraq in 2008, sparking a heated debate and accusations of meddling in US politics, which in turn put Australia-US relations at risk due to his close ties with President George W. Bush. Laura Tingle, the chief political correspondent for the Australian Financial Review, stated that the government has had a challenging fortnight. They have relied on their usual strategies of economic management, national security, and leadership, but they have not been very effective. Kevin Rudd, a former diplomat who speaks Mandarin, has emphasized his youth and family image, while John Howard has focused on his experience compared to Rudd's inexperience. Greg Craven, a government professor at Curtin University, pointed out that Rudd has highlighted Howard's age as a weakness for the government. Craven stated that he is getting old and appears to be aging rapidly. Howard has overcome similar poll slumps in the past and analysts believe it is premature to count him out politically. Economou noted that Howard has experience in defense and foreign policy and there is still more to discuss regarding the economy. | 1 |
According to reports released Thursday, the amount of office space available for lease in Manhattan has reached its highest rate ever, with 18.7% of all office space now available for lease. This surge in available office space is a result of the sudden shift to remote work during the coronavirus pandemic, which is causing companies to reevaluate their space needs. Many New York employers are offering more flexibility to their workforce, allowing some remote work even as the pandemic recedes. As a result, companies are either ending their leases or seeking tenants to take over their existing leases at a steady pace. Neighbourhoods like Downtown Manhattan are particularly struggling, with 21% of offices currently unoccupied. Kathryn Wylde, the president of the Partnership for New York City, a significant business organization, stated that New York City is currently experiencing its most significant crisis since the 1970s when half of the city's 125 Fortune 500 companies relocated. Wylde emphasized the urgency of the situation, comparing it to the past exodus and lengthy recovery the city faced. She stressed the need for the city to find ways to attract people beyond just working in the office. New York City's situation is unique in the United States due to its heavy reliance on office commuters, who before the pandemic numbered 1.6 million daily and supported various sectors of the economy. The pandemic has also resulted in significant challenges for the commercial real estate sector, a key component of the city's economy, leading landlords to revamp office spaces and offer incentives like reduced rent to retain and attract businesses. Commercial property accounts for the largest share of New York City's property tax revenue at 41%. Commercial areas in various cities are facing challenges, with office buildings in Manhattan experiencing a continuous decrease in occupancy. Despite some cities like Atlanta and Los Angeles showing improvement post-pandemic, New York's vacancy rate remains higher than the national average. Other cities such as Los Angeles and Chicago are also struggling to fill their office spaces, with vacancy rates exceeding those of New York before the pandemic. There are concerns that the situation in New York may further deteriorate. According to CBRE, a third of leases at large Manhattan buildings will expire in the next three years, leading to a decrease in demand for office space. The availability rate in New York City is currently at its highest level since the mid-1970s. Franklin Wallach from Colliers predicts that the amount of available office space in Manhattan will continue to increase due to ongoing construction and relocation plans. There is currently 14 million square feet of office space under construction in New York City. Wallach also suggests that the office market in Manhattan will recover unevenly, similar to the broader economic recovery. Neighborhoods near major transportation hubs like Pennsylvania Station and Grand Central Terminal may recover faster than other parts of Manhattan, according to Wallach. While the overall market will eventually bounce back, the timing and specifics of the recovery will vary depending on location. Savills predicts that the Manhattan office market may not fully recover to pre-pandemic levels until late 2022 or later. A survey by the Partnership for New York City found that only 12% of office workers had returned to Manhattan by the end of May, with over 60% expected to return in September. However, many companies are allowing employees to work remotely for at least part of the week. Throughout the pandemic, the technology sector has been the only industry to sign significant leases in New York, with companies like Facebook and Google well-equipped to transition to remote work. Facebook's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, announced in June his intention to work remotely for half of the following year. Wylde noted that the tech sector's growth seems to be short-lived, with employees demanding permanent options for remote work or a hybrid schedule. Workers are expressing their desire to avoid expensive leases in cities like New York by working from home or remotely. Wylde suggested that cities are becoming more competitive due to the pandemic and the rise of remote work, emphasizing the need for a shift in public policy towards prioritizing quality of life, a positive business environment, and affordability. | 1 |
The ruling Awami League and its affiliated organizations are commemorating the historic March 7 with extensive programs in the capital and throughout the country. In Dhaka, party leader and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, along with party members, paid tribute to Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Bangabandhu Museum at 7am. Awami League will conduct a discussion session at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre at 3pm to honor the occasion, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as the chief guest. Special programs emphasizing the importance of the day will be broadcast on Bangladesh Betar, Bangladesh Television, and other private TV channels. The day has historical importance as it goes back to 1971 when Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman called for the liberation movement during a rally at Suhrawardy Udyan. This led to the people of East Pakistan taking up arms against the Pakistani occupation army, resulting in a nine-month war that ultimately led to the birth of Bangladesh as an independent nation. President Mohammad Zillur Rahman and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina both emphasized the historical significance of the day in separate statements. President Rahman expressed that March 7 is a memorable day in Bengali history and paid tribute to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for leading the struggle for the establishment of an independent Bangladesh. He further mentioned that the 'Golden Bengal', a vision that Bangabandhu had always dreamed of, has not yet been realized. In order to make this dream a reality, the country must combat issues such as hunger, poverty, superstitions, and the negative impacts of climate change. The prime minister stated that the iconic March 7 speech reflected the aspirations of the nation before the liberation war, following years of subjugation by West Pakistan. She also noted that this powerful speech had brought the nation together and sparked the liberation war. | 1 |
Australia has pledged to move forward with an extensive carbon trading scheme in 2010, despite concerns that it may not be sufficient to address global warming. The plan includes a target to reduce emissions by 5 percent of 2000 levels by 2020, with a potential increase to 15 percent if international agreements are reached. Climate Change Minister Penny Wong emphasized the importance of the scheme for Australia, which has high greenhouse gas emissions due to its reliance on coal. Wong stated that the policy aims to mitigate the economic impact of the scheme in light of the global financial crisis, as Australia's economy is vulnerable to threats such as food production, agriculture, and water supplies. If we do not take action now, we will face severe and rapid consequences, including the loss of important industries and jobs in Australia. The current plan involves setting prices through market auctions starting in the first half of 2010, moving away from the previous idea of a fixed price. The government anticipates a price of approximately A$25 ($16.70) per tonne, which is lower than the European emission allowances trading at around 15 euros (A$30) per tonne. Additionally, the government plans to implement a temporary price cap of A$40 per tonne, a decision that experts believe may initially restrict market growth. Brett Janissen, executive manager of the consultancy Asia-Pacific Emissions Trading Forum, compared the carbon scheme to a risky balancing act and expressed doubts about its effectiveness. The scheme allows polluters to import carbon permits from green projects overseas but does not permit exports from Australia, resulting in participants choosing the cheapest option. Despite calls from scientists and green groups for at least a 25 percent reduction in emissions, the government is implementing the scheme at a politically sensitive time, just months before elections. Greenpeace climate campaigner John Hepburn criticized the scheme as a "total and utter failure." The government claims the scheme will slightly decrease annual GDP growth and temporarily increase inflation. Wong mentioned that carbon trading would account for 75 percent of Australia's carbon emissions and would involve 1,000 of the country's largest companies. However, companies with high pollution levels would receive up to 90 percent of carbon permits for free. The rapidly growing liquefied natural gas (LNG) industry, initially excluded from the plan in July, was happy to receive exemptions in the final version. Belinda Robinson, CEO of the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association, stated that the plan had improved significantly since it was first outlined in the Green paper. She believes that Australia should be pleased with the inclusion of the LNG industry, as it represents the country's best opportunity to help reduce global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite this progress, the targets set by Australia were considered cautious compared to global standards. Europe has committed to reducing emissions by 20 percent by 2020, while the IPCC has suggested that wealthy nations should aim for reductions of 25 to 40 percent by that time. Martijn Wilder, a partner at Baker & McKenzie in Sydney, expressed disappointment in the proposed scheme for not meeting the IPCC's recommended reduction levels. He noted that the inclusion of a A$40 price cap could provide companies with cost certainty for compliance, but also allows them to buy their way out of meeting emissions targets if the carbon price exceeds the cap. Janissen characterized the scheme as a gentle introduction with stricter emission reduction goals expected after the 2012-2013 financial year. However, he acknowledged that the scheme appears to offer significant support to industries with high emissions intensity, such as subsidies for those exposed to international trade. Participating companies in the scheme will be required to give up a permit for each ton of carbon they emit. The auction of these permits is projected to generate A$11.5 billion in 2010/11, all of which will be allocated to offset the increased expenses for electricity and transportation for businesses and households. Australian farmers, who have endured over seven years of harsh drought, will be exempt from participating in carbon trading for a minimum of five years. Agriculture contributes to approximately 16 percent of Australia's emissions. However, transportation and fuel will still be incorporated into the program. The government plans to present carbon-trading legislation to parliament in 2009, requiring the backing of the Greens and two independent senators or the conservative opposition, who wish to postpone the scheme due to the worldwide economic slowdown. ($1 equals A$1.49). | 1 |
Similar to Trump's visit to Davos last year, Bolsonaro attempted to soften the radical message that propelled him to the presidency last autumn. He portrayed Brazil as a favorable destination for business, emphasizing its dedication to eradicating corruption and reducing regulations. However, Bolsonaro also declared his intention to eradicate left-wing ideology from politics and society, unapologetically prioritizing economic growth despite criticisms that this may harm the environment. In a speech to a full room, Bolsonaro stated that his administration represents a new era in Brazil, free from ideological biases, with the motto "God above all things." Bolsonaro's speech at Davos marked a departure from the conference's usual attendees, as he embodies values conflicting with the idea of global cooperation and a liberal world order. His nationalist tendencies, authoritarian approach, and controversial remarks make him the opposite of a typical "Davos Man." Despite concerns about his policies, such as loosening gun restrictions and limiting LGBTQ rights, he has not yet withdrawn from the Paris climate accord. Bolsonaro stated on Tuesday that Brazil would cooperate with the world to decrease carbon emissions, without mentioning the accord. He also mentioned that critics could learn from Brazil. Bolsonaro and Trump have developed a strong relationship, and there are similarities between them. Bolsonaro bragged about winning despite facing constant unfair attacks, similar to Trump's criticism of the news media. Despite speaking in a hot room, Bolsonaro wore a long winter coat. Trump also enjoys these items: He was recently seen wearing one in the State Dining Room while posing with fast food for the Clemson University football team. Following Bolsonaro's inauguration, Trump congratulated him on Twitter. Bolsonaro responded, expressing a desire to bring prosperity with God's guidance. Trump, who was a prominent figure at last year's meeting, did not attend this year due to the government shutdown. He later cancelled the rest of the American delegation after denying House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's request to use a military aircraft. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a video appearance from the State Department, summarizing Trump's foreign policy emphasizing "America First" with criticisms of Iran and China. He informed the audience that Trump's style of disruption was a positive reaction to voters who were no longer interested in traditional politicians, and was similar to political changes happening in other countries like Britain, France, Italy, and Brazil. British Prime Minister Theresa May and French President Emmanuel Macron did not attend the meeting, with May dealing with Brexit chaos and Macron facing protests from "Yellow Vest" demonstrators. Pompeo stated that critics of the Trump administration were not prepared to reform international institutions like the United Nations, but Trump was. When asked if the US was isolated, Pompeo disagreed, saying they were not isolated at all. However, signs of a shifting world order were visible in Davos' snow-covered streets. While well-known companies in Silicon Valley like Facebook and Salesforce still have impressive pavilions to showcase their presence, the most prominent advertisement was from Saudi Arabia, which covered the side of a hotel to encourage investment in the kingdom. Saudi Arabia's own investor conference, referred to as Davos in the Desert, faced numerous cancellations in October due to reports linking Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Advertisements for the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, Russian President Vladimir Putin's alternative to Davos, lined the streets. Despite a lack of Chinese officials in attendance, sessions focused on China's economy, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, attracted the largest audiences. The United States had a lower profile at the event but still had a significant presence. Economic analysts attribute the reduction in their global economic growth forecasts to Trump's trade war with China. Foreign policy analysts believe that Trump's unpredictable style is the biggest risk factor in the world. Karin von Hippel, the director-general of the Royal United Services Institute in London and a former State Department official, stated that challenging the international system requires a well-thought-out replacement, which seems to be lacking in this situation. | 1 |
Pope Benedict called on all Christians to assist global efforts in addressing a food price crisis that could lead to more people facing hunger. He emphasized the importance of not being indifferent to those who lack basic necessities, such as food. The pontiff expressed concern over the seriousness of the issue and highlighted the struggle of the international community in finding a solution. The United Nations' Food and Agriculture Organization will hold a summit in Rome next month to address the challenges arising from soaring commodity prices, which have significantly increased the food import bills of the most impoverished nations. This summit will also examine the impact of climate change and the use of biofuels on food security. | 1 |
Lars Sorensen believes that the number of potential customers for his products will continue to rise due to the increasing global obesity epidemic leading to more people developing type 2 diabetes. However, he is facing challenges in securing good prices for insulin and other diabetes treatments from cost-conscious reimbursement authorities worldwide. Sorensen mentioned that pricing is a concern in Europe and is expected to be challenging in the United States as well due to healthcare reform and concentration in the distribution chain. Despite facing difficulties, Sorensen remains optimistic about the company's long-term growth goals. Novo Nordisk has not given up on its financial targets and aims for double-digit sales growth, although recent setbacks have made the task more challenging. The company is now facing competition from other pharmaceutical companies and is encountering resistance from healthcare insurers and governments on pricing strategies. Novo must find a balance between pricing its products competitively while maintaining its reputation for innovative medicines. The climate is changing for Novo, as they have lost a major US managed care contract with Express Scripts to cheaper competition for Victoza. In Europe, austerity measures are making it difficult for Novo to sell their new drugs at a premium price. Sorensen believes it is important to price innovation higher in order to fund future innovation, and he is not willing to compromise on pricing. Despite investor concerns, Novo's stock is still performing well due to the growing number of people with diabetes. Sorensen is hopeful for the future of Novo, with plans for oral insulin and GLP-1 pills in the works. Although there is speculation about a possible deal with Oramed Pharmaceuticals, Sorensen has doubts about their approach. Personally, Sorensen shows no signs of slowing down, as he recently extended his retirement age. He rides his bike to work frequently and enjoys cross-country skiing, getting ready to participate in the 90-km Vasa race in Sweden this winter. Lars Sorensen, CEO of Novo Nordisk, believes there are strong internal candidates to replace him when he steps down, saying they are currently focusing on succession planning. | 1 |
She mentioned that this would facilitate better interactions between parliamentary delegations and enhance cooperation in various fields including socioeconomic, educational, agricultural, energy, and cultural. Hasina made this statement during a meeting with Valentina I Matvienko, Chairperson of the Council of Federation of Federal Assembly of Russia, at the Council of Federation building in Moscow. After the hour-long meeting, Prime Minister’s Deputy Press Secretary Bijan Lal Dev briefed reporters. Hasina also discussed collaborating with Russia on counter-terrorism and acknowledged Russia's support during Bangladesh's Liberation War. She expressed her government's commitment to democracy and ensuring people's fundamental rights. Hasina emphasized Bangladesh's role as a connecting hub between Eastern Asia and Western countries, with a focus on regional peace. Matvienko agreed to cooperate with Bangladesh on counter-terrorism and praised Hasina's leadership. They agreed to work together on addressing the impact of climate change. The meeting was attended by Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, State Minister for Science and Technology Yeafesh Osman, and AKM Rahmatullah MP. Hasina's visit to Russia is significant as it is the first official visit by a Bangladesh Prime Minister since 1972. On Tuesday, Bangladesh and Russia signed several agreements, including financing for a nuclear power plant in Rooppur. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina departed for New York on Saturday night for a nine-day official visit to the USA to participate in the 67th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). She and her entourage boarded an Emirates flight from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 9.30 pm, with an expected arrival at John F Kennedy (JFK) International Airport in New York at 8.15 am (New York time) on Sunday. They will have a two-hour layover at Dubai International Airport before continuing on to New York. Upon arrival at JFK Airport, the Prime Minister will head directly to Hotel Grand Hyatt where she will be staying during her visit to the city. Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, Environment and Forest Minister Hasan Mahmud, Ambassador-At-Large M Ziauddin, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister Shaikh Mohammad Wahid-Uz- Zaman and Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad, along with others, will be accompanying Hasina on her trip to the USA. A 23-member high-level business delegation, led by AK Azad, president of the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), will also be joining the Prime Minister to explore new trade and business opportunities in the USA. Hasina is scheduled to attend a high-level event on 'Rule of Law' on Sept 24 at the General Assembly Hall at the UN headquarters. Additionally, on the same day, she will attend a reception hosted by US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama. On Sept 25, Hasina will also attend a reception hosted by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. She is scheduled to participate in the opening session of the 67th UN General Assembly and launch the 'Second Edition of the Climate Vulnerability Monitor' event the following day. Expatriate Bangladeshis will host a reception for her at Marriott Marquis Hotel near Times Square in New York. On September 27, Hasina will attend a meeting on autism hosted by the US First Lady at the Roosevelt House, as well as participate in the Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) initiative. She is scheduled to give a speech at the General Assembly at 8pm on September 27th. The theme of this year's session is "Bringing about adjustment or settlement of international disputes or situations by peaceful means". Before returning home on September 30th, Hasina will participate in a press conference at 4pm. She is anticipated to arrive in Dhaka in the morning on October 2nd. | 1 |
President Bush and Queen Elizabeth celebrated the lasting friendship between the United States and Britain at a state dinner held at the White House on Monday night. The event was in honor of the British monarch during the final days of her six-day visit to the US. Only 132 guests were invited to join the queen and Prince Philip at the formal dinner, which was the first white tie event hosted by Bush and his wife Laura. The royal couple arrived at the White House in a black Chevrolet Suburban four-wheel drive vehicle and were greeted by the president and first lady, who was wearing an aqua gown. The queen was dressed in a white gown with a blue sash and a sparkling crown. During the toasts before dinner, Bush praised the US-British alliance as a powerful force for the greater good. He stated that we are working together to help young democracies in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as facing global issues like poverty, disease, and terrorism. He expressed belief that the friendship between Anglo-American countries will last for many years. The queen mentioned that current leaders can take lessons from figures like Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt. She pointed out that the challenges faced today, such as in Iraq or Afghanistan, climate change, or poverty eradication, are just as complex as those faced by leaders in the 20th century. "By collaborating with our allies in Europe and other regions, we can continue to draw inspiration from the past leaders and work together to address current threats and challenges. Guests at the dinner included Nancy Reagan, Arnold Palmer, Calvin Borel, and Itzhak Perlman. The royal couple's visit to America has featured events commemorating the 400th anniversary of the British settlement in Jamestown, Virginia, and the Kentucky Derby. They were welcomed with a formal arrival ceremony at the White House, accompanied by a fife-and-drum corps and trumpets announcing the dignitaries' arrival." The US Air Force Band performed national anthems in front of 7,000 invited guests on a pleasant spring day. Bush acknowledged the queen's extensive experience in dealing with numerous American administrations, almost mentioning her connection to 1776, the year when the 13 British colonies declared independence from Britain. Elizabeth, who has been reigning over Britain for 55 years and is 81 years old, was welcomed back to the United States with pride by the American people. It was noted that she has dined with 10 US presidents. In 1976, you assisted our country in commemorating its bicentennial," Bush mentioned. Bush glanced at the queen with a shy expression, while she looked back at him from under her black and white hat. "She gave me a look that only a mother could give a child," Bush shared as the audience erupted into laughter. Approaching the podium, the queen praised the strong bond between the United States and Britain. She stated that now is the time to assess our current friendship, appreciating its strengths without assuming them, and to also focus on the future by recommitting to a better world together. | 1 |
The prime minister emphasized the importance of governments not only recognizing their national contributions under the Paris Agreement, but also increasing their ambitions during her speech at the Climate Vulnerable Leaders’ Event. She stressed the need for climate justice to be established and for major economies, MDBs, and IFIs to provide more financial support and technology access. Bangladesh is proud to lead the Climate Vulnerable Forum for the second time, representing over one billion people from the world's most vulnerable countries. CVF countries are experiencing the greatest impacts of climate change despite their minimal contribution to global carbon emissions. Bangladesh is ranked as the seventh most affected country in the world according to the Climate Change Vulnerability Index, 2019 by German Watch. The country has been dealing with recurring flooding during the monsoon season, resulting in significant crop damage and displacement of a large number of people. The situation has been further exacerbated by the super cyclone Amphan and the current COVID-19 pandemic, as mentioned by Hasina. Additionally, the presence of 1.1 million Rohingya refugees from Myanmar in Cox's Bazar has also led to serious social and environmental issues, she pointed out. Hasina emphasized that as president, her focus would be on rallying support to limit global temperature increase to 1.5 degrees, enhancing financing mechanisms, and raising awareness about climate resilience and the issue of 'loss and damage'. Hasina emphasized the importance of appointing a UN Special Rapporteur on Climate Change and establishing a CVF and V20 Joint Multi-Donor Fund in her speech. As the chair of CVF, Hasina launched the Climate Vulnerable Forum’s “Midnight Survival Deadline for the Climate” initiative to address the global impact of climate change. She called on leaders of every nation to demonstrate leadership and proposed the establishment of an international day named “Climate Resilience Day” during the Climate Vulnerable Leaders’ Event. Hasina warned that the world is on the brink of exceeding the Paris Agreement’s 1.5 degrees Centigrade limit and urged G20 countries, responsible for the majority of global emissions, to set clear and specific NDCs for significant emission reductions. She stated that if the current trend of rising sea levels continues, many island and coastal nations will be submerged, creating millions of climate refugees with no place to go. Bangladesh's parliament has declared a "Planetary Emergency" and is urging the world to take urgent action to combat climate change. The prime minister emphasized the importance of declaring extended NDCs by December 31st this year as a "survival deadline." She also called for at least 100 billion US dollars annually to be allocated to developing countries for mitigation, adaptation, and disaster response and recovery. | 1 |
Malaysia's ruling coalition brought 41 lawmakers to Taiwan for a study tour as opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim attempts to persuade MPs to defect in his bid to overthrow the government. Opposition leaders are strategizing on how to remove the government by Anwar's deadline of Sept. 16. Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi has called for a meeting of his coalition to prevent defections that could end their 50-year rule. Anwar's efforts to disrupt Malaysia's longstanding political order have increased political risks and unsettled foreign investors. The country's growing fiscal deficit, exacerbated by measures to boost the government's popularity after a poor election performance last March, has negatively impacted the ringgit currency, stock market, and bond prices. Creating more uncertainty, Anwar is set to appear in court on Wednesday to confront a new sodomy charge that he believes the government fabricated to thwart his political aspirations. It is anticipated that the judge will move the case to a higher court. Barisan MPs informed the press before departing for Taiwan on an eight-day "study mission" that their visit was unrelated to Anwar's situation. Bung Mokhtar Radin, an MP from Sabah, stated at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, "We are going to Taiwan to learn about agriculture. This trip is not politically motivated." He and 40 other Members of Parliament departed on Monday. An additional eight MPs will leave on Tuesday. Barisan has 140 MPs compared to the opposition's 82. Lim Kit Siang, a seasoned opposition figure, stated that government MPs left Malaysia in order to avoid being involved in potential political changes on September 16. He mentioned that the MPs may be closely monitored and have their mobile phones confiscated while in Taiwan. According to a political analyst, the Taiwan trip could serve as a convenient excuse for Anwar in case he does not meet his September 16 deadline. Columnist Suhaini Aznam wrote in the Star newspaper that Barisan is falling into Anwar's psychological warfare tactics. Anwar held a meeting with leaders of the opposition Pakatan Rakyat alliance on Monday to discuss the takeover plan, as confirmed by his aides. Anwar, who was dismissed as deputy prime minister in 1998 during the Asian financial crisis and later imprisoned for six years on charges of sodomy and corruption, was expected to release a statement afterwards. Last month, he emerged victorious in a by-election that enabled him to return to parliament, positioning him to potentially become prime minister if the opposition alliance comes to power. | 1 |
During a parliamentary discussion on poverty reduction strategies, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina criticized the opposition for their lack of concern for the poor. Hasina expressed disappointment at the absence of the main opposition party, BNP, and stated that they did not join because they do not have the desire to help the poor. She mentioned that she would have been pleased if they had participated in the discussion on this important national issue. The Planning Minister, A K Khandaker, presented the draft PRSP-2 to the Parliament on September 15 for the MPs to give their opinions. Prime Minister Hasina discussed the draft for 38 minutes during the four-hour discussion, which was chaired by Speaker Abdul Hamid and attended by 23 MPs, Deputy Leader of the House Syeda Sajeda Chowdhury, and Finance Minister AMA Muhith. The Planning Minister mentioned at the start of the discussion that the paper would be completed by December of this year. He also requested specific recommendations from the Members of Parliament. Prime Minister Hasina stated, "We aim to advance the country with the five-year plan. The PRSP has been prepared and deliberated in parliament, which is a noteworthy occurrence." She mentioned that the PRSP will be available online in Bangla. She highlighted the initiatives outlined in the strategy paper, such as promoting development through collaboration, addressing Monga, creating job opportunities for those affected by floods, utilizing water resources for environmental progress, ensuring food security, constructing infrastructure suitable for the impoverished, and enhancing the communication system. The prime minister mentioned the measures taken by her government, such as rationing essential commodities for garment workers, adjusting school and office schedules to ease traffic congestion, and constructing six flyovers and elevated roads in the capital. The government has also reduced power outages, but is still criticized for mismanagement by previous administrations. She attributed climate change to developed countries and demanded compensation from the United Nations. Plans have been made to dredge rivers and allocate Tk 700 crore for those who may be impacted. The prime minister also mentioned her government's plans to establish multi-purpose cyclone centers in coastal areas. She urged the public to be vigilant against ongoing plots and false information aimed at undermining the government, stating that poverty could be reduced if people cooperate. Hasina expressed her desire for the people's support in developing the country into a more advanced nation, emphasizing the need to overcome obstacles. She referenced a recent bomb attack on AL MP Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, warning of conspiracies to create chaos through terrorism but noting that the people trust the government. She stated that she would confront any challenges in order to work for the benefit of the people. | 1 |
The United States downplayed a recent confrontation between Chinese and US naval vessels during high-level talks focused on economic growth and containing North Korea's nuclear program. Tensions escalated over an incident in the South China Sea where five Chinese ships clashed with a US Navy survey vessel near China's Hainan island. The US maintains its ship was in international waters, while China argues it violated their sovereignty. Despite the disagreement, it is unlikely to hinder broader discussions on political and economic issues, such as the global financial crisis, security threats, and climate change. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton mentioned that she brought up the issue with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi. They both agreed to work towards preventing similar incidents in the future. Clinton stated that they also talked about human rights, North Korea, Iran, and the struggling global economy. Clinton commended China's efforts to stimulate their economy and praised it as a positive step. Obama is set to meet with Chinese President Hu Jintao at an upcoming meeting of the group of 20 countries to discuss coordinated actions for economic growth and financial stability. She emphasized the importance of the G20 meeting producing united action to stimulate global recovery. Regarding North Korea, Clinton mentioned various options, including action by the UN Security Council, that could be taken against Pyongyang if it were to test a long-range ballistic missile, which she described as provocative. North Korea recently announced its plans to launch a satellite using one of its rockets, which experts believe may be a test of its longest-range missile, the Taepodong-2. This missile is capable of reaching Alaska, but during its only test in 2006, it malfunctioned after just a few seconds of flight and disintegrated. North Korea has faced U.N. sanctions in the past for its ballistic missile tests and is prohibited from carrying out any further tests. It is argued that the missiles are a component of its peaceful space program, asserting the right to launch satellites into orbit. Additionally, there is a call for North Korea to resume negotiations for a multilateral aid-for-disarmament agreement. The U.S. Secretary of State expressed regret over North Korea not allowing her envoy to visit recently. In response to criticism from rights groups, she emphasized the importance of human rights in discussions with China, including Tibet as it commemorates the 50th anniversary of a failed uprising against Chinese rule. She told reporters that human rights is an important issue that is being discussed alongside other issues, and it is crucial to create a platform for seeing results from human rights engagement. The US House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary and urging Beijing to find a lasting solution, with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi emphasizing the importance of speaking out for human rights in China and Tibet. | 1 |
The link to Donald J. Trump's proposal on Preventing Muslim Immigration, along with other details such as his potential Supreme Court justice picks and economic, defense, and regulatory reform plans, disappeared from his website by Thursday. The Trump campaign did not respond to requests for comment on the changes. The removed links now redirect readers to a campaign fundraising page, and the changes were made around Election Day when Trump won against Hillary Clinton. Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal praised Trump for removing the Muslim ban proposal from his website and deleting offensive statements about Muslims from his Twitter account in an appearance on CNBC. However, some tweets attacking Muslims that Trump sent during his campaign remained on his feed, including one from March 22 criticizing Hillary Clinton for wanting weak borders. A supporter's tweet that Trump quoted claimed that Muslims celebrated the September 11 attacks, and suggested including footage of the celebrations in political ads. Samer Khalaf, president of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee, expressed concern about Trump's policies' impact on Muslims at a news conference. Khalaf thanked Trump for removing the proposal to ban Muslims, but emphasized that actions speak louder than words. Trump's core policy positions, such as building a wall on the border with Mexico, remained on his website. This was not the initial occasion that the Trump campaign had made mysterious alterations to its website. Earlier this year, the campaign substituted a section of the website detailing Trump's healthcare policy with an alternate version. In September, after being questioned by Reuters, the campaign restored the original page. | 1 |
A YouTube video featuring Australia's potential Prime Minister Kevin Rudd dressed as Chairman Mao in a parody Chinese propaganda film is leading a covert video campaign against the major parties' election advertisements. The clip shows Rudd seeking votes from enthusiastic supporters, with Labour lawmakers and supporters holding up red books and flags. The video, complete with subtitles and heroic Chinese music, portrays Rudd as an earnest and intimidating figure who has control over celestial movements. Rudd, a 50-year-old former diplomat who speaks Mandarin, is surpassing conservative Prime Minister John Howard in polls before the November 24 parliamentary election, promising changes in education, health, and labour laws. In order to appeal to young voters, both major political parties have utilized the Internet for their campaign announcements, while voters are inundated with millions of dollars worth of election advertising daily. Despite this, a two-minute video featuring Rudd as Mao, created by Sydney law student Hugh Atkin and presented as a rejected Labour ad, has gained significant attention, surpassing official party material in views. Other videos portray Rudd in unflattering ways, such as allegedly picking and eating ear wax in parliament or a comedic cover of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven" titled "Stairway to Kevin." Howard, facing a likely conservative defeat, has also faced criticism on YouTube for his fear-based campaign tactics against refugees and Islamic extremists in past elections. In 2007, "Killerspudly" is looking for a unique way to convince people to vote for him, sharing his thoughts with nearly 50,000 viewers. The official party's online content is more generic, resembling traditional TV ads to save money. The conservatives are criticizing Labour and Rudd's connections to unions and tax plans, while Labour is criticizing Howard for not signing the Kyoto climate pact, which is a significant concern for young voters. Smaller parties are also participating in the election activities. The Australian Greens have utilized YouTube to share a video featuring Howard and Rudd in bed, sleeping, surrounded by references to climate change and Australia's coal industry. Atkin, a 23-year-old who created a clip of Rudd with Mao, stated that he plans to vote for Labour despite poking fun at its leader's carefully-crafted image. He expressed a desire for Labour to win the election while also enjoying making jokes at their expense. | 1 |
Political tensions were present at a summit of European and Latin American leaders in Peru, potentially hindering their shared goals of combating poverty and global warming. Evo Morales, the President of Bolivia, clashed with his counterparts over free trade leading up to the meeting, while Hugo Chavez of Venezuela escalated tensions with Colombia. Supporters of free trade, such as Peru, grew impatient with skeptics like Morales, who accused Peru and Colombia of excluding Bolivia from discussions with the European Union. Peruvian President Alan Garcia urged progress despite differing speeds, emphasizing the importance of moving forward. Morales, a former coca grower, expressed concerns that free trade agreements could harm small farmers in his country. He informed journalists in Lima that they desired trade, but only if it was fair. The EU is currently engaged in discussions with Mercosur, which is led by Brazil and Argentina, as well as with Central American nations. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was among the first leaders to attend the summit, stated that the EU was willing to facilitate trade. Despite a recent dispute with Chavez, who accused her of being a political heir to Adolf Hitler, Merkel did not mention the incident. Chavez often insults conservative leaders, particularly U.S. President George W. Bush. During a summit in Chile last year, Spain's king told Chavez to be quiet. Chavez is currently involved in a disagreement with Colombia that has raised concerns about potential war in the Andean region. Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has accused Chavez of supporting the FARC guerrillas, leading Chavez to consider reviewing diplomatic relations with Bogota before heading to Lima. These conflicts may be a significant focus at the upcoming gathering of leaders from Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Additionally, they may struggle to find agreement on combating cocaine trafficking and using food crops for renewable biofuels instead of fossil fuels. Brazil supports environmentally friendly fuels, but some less wealthy countries believe they contribute to higher food prices. Despite this, poorer nations are becoming more concerned about climate change and believe wealthier countries should reduce their carbon emissions. Peru recently established an environment ministry to address the effects of global warming, particularly the melting of its Andean glaciers. Delegates from Peru will advocate for stronger actions to combat climate change, as many governments have only paid lip service to addressing this serious threat. We are encouraging those governments to take tangible steps," stated Kim Howells, a junior minister in the British Foreign Office, in an interview with Reuters. | 1 |
Yvo de Boer, head of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, expressed concerns that the Bali climate talks could collapse if 190 nations do not quickly resolve disagreements that are hindering the start of negotiations for a new global warming agreement. The talks, which have brought together over 10,000 delegates on the Indonesian island, are stuck on the specifics of launching negotiations for a climate deal to follow the Kyoto Protocol. De Boer warned that failure to make progress could lead to the collapse of the entire process. In the ongoing discussions, the United States, Japan, Canada, and Australia are pushing back against the proposed guideline for wealthy nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25 to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 as a reference point for future negotiations. The European Union, on the other hand, supports this range to demonstrate that affluent countries should take the lead, and has criticized Washington for obstructing progress in Bali. This target was included in a recent draft on Thursday as part of terms for discussions aimed at preventing food shortages, droughts, sea level rise, and the melting of Himalayan glaciers. Portugal's Secretary of State for Environment, Humberto Rosa, expressed disappointment that the United States is holding up global action on this issue. Portugal currently holds the rotating EU presidency, and Rosa is the chief negotiator for the EU at the Bali talks. "The United States has recently adopted new terminology such as 'engagement' and 'leadership,' but simply using words is inadequate. We require tangible action. This is the primary obstacle," he informed Reuters. The U.S., not a participant in the Kyoto Protocol, argues that setting guidelines would prematurely determine the results of negotiations. Additionally, it contends that the 25-40 percent range is founded on limited scientific research." De Boer stated that negotiations needed to resolve all remaining conflicts by midday on Friday to allow for translations into the six official U.N. languages. U.N. climate talks typically continue late into the night on the final day. The Kyoto Protocol requires 37 industrialized nations to reduce their emissions from 2008 to 2012. Developing nations, including China and India, are not bound by these restrictions, and President George W. Bush withdrew from the agreement in 2001, citing potential harm to the U.S. economy and lack of targets for developing countries. The United Nations aims for all countries to agree on a successor to Kyoto by late 2009 to allow for ratification by the end of 2012 and provide clear guidelines for investments in clean energy technology. China is pushing for negotiations on a new international agreement to continue beyond 2009 in order to allow a new American president to participate. However, not many other countries support this idea. Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the importance of limiting global temperature increase to 2 degrees Celsius and ensuring global emissions peak by 2015. Our actions will be evaluated by future generations. He also mentioned that the wealthy will need to bear the majority of the expenses in assisting impoverished nations in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. | 1 |
China and the European Union have pledged to work towards achieving balanced trade and enhancing collaboration in addressing climate change during high-level meetings, despite ongoing tensions related to Tibet protests and the Olympics. EU officials, led by European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso, had hoped that their meetings with senior Chinese officials in Beijing would help improve relations strained by China's significant trade deficit and promote sustainable growth. Economic tensions have worsened as China's trade surplus with the EU reached nearly 160 billion euros ($251 billion) last year. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao stated that both sides have agreed to strengthen cooperation in energy conservation and reducing emissions, emphasizing that the benefits of their partnership far outweigh any conflicts. Wen stated that a better future for the Sino-EU relationship can be achieved through respecting, trusting, and learning from each other. Barroso emphasized that the main focus of the talks was on climate change, and China has shown willingness to include domestic emissions in a global agreement to address climate change post-2012. Both sides acknowledged the trade imbalances and agreed on the need for a rebalance. The talks were overshadowed by anti-Chinese unrest in Tibetan areas, disruptions during the Beijing Olympic torch relay in London and Paris, and subsequent Chinese counter-protests. Barroso also welcomed China's decision to hold discussions with representatives of the Dalai Lama. Barroso stated the importance of dialogue in finding a sustainable solution to the Tibet issue while respecting China's sovereignty. Mandelson urged an end to mutual boycott threats and emphasized the need for constructive engagement instead. The European Parliament has requested EU leaders to boycott the Beijing Games' opening ceremony unless China engages in talks with the Dalai Lama, but Mandelson believes that boycotts and counter-campaigns are unproductive for both sides. | 1 |
Newspapers reported on Wednesday that India has criticized a United Nations report for suggesting that developing countries should reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2050. The latest Human Development Report, released by the UN Development Programme on Tuesday, emphasized the urgent need for collective action to prevent devastating climate change, particularly impacting the poor. Montek Singh Ahluwalia, deputy chairman of India's Planning Commission, expressed concerns that the recommendations, although appearing fair, are not truly egalitarian. He challenged the research team to provide further evidence to support their findings. Ahluwalia spoke at the Indian launch of the report ahead of a UN climate summit in Bali, Indonesia, where countries will discuss commitments to reduce carbon emissions. The UN report emphasizes the need for quantitative commitments from developing countries for credibility. India and other developing nations argue that binding cuts are unfair and would impede poverty alleviation efforts. They believe that historically industrialized nations should take responsibility for reducing emissions, as they became wealthy through fossil fuel consumption. Even though Indians make up a significant portion of the global population, they contribute a relatively small amount to total carbon emissions, as reported by the UN. India's slow progress is a factor, with many rural Indians still lacking access to electricity and relying on traditional fuels like cow dung and wood. However, there are arguments that India can advance economically while also reducing emissions by investing in more efficient and renewable energy sources instead of coal. Rajendra Pachauri, an Indian scientist and Nobel Peace Prize winner, warns against India following the carbon-heavy development path of wealthy nations, advocating for a more sustainable approach to growth. | 1 |
On Wednesday, US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton stated that the relationship between Washington and India requires improvement and called for closer collaboration on security, trade, and other matters. Clinton is scheduled to travel to India next month and expressed her hope that the two countries could work together on global challenges such as climate change and securing Afghanistan. In a speech to the U.S.-India Business Council, Clinton emphasized the need for an enhanced bilateral relationship, noting that official ties between the two nations are overdue for an upgrade compared to other aspects of cooperation. The previous year saw India and the US sign a groundbreaking civil nuclear agreement, marking the end of a 30-year ban on global nuclear trade with India. The agreement will allow India to purchase nuclear technology and fuel from the global market. In order to strengthen their relationship, the speaker emphasized the need for both Washington and New Delhi to overcome mistrust and address any lingering uncertainties. Concerns were raised by some Americans about potential job loss and lower wages due to increased economic ties with India, while Indians were worried about compromising their country's tradition of independence. The speaker also promised closer economic and trade relations, with negotiations for a bilateral investment treaty set to begin soon, which will create more trade opportunities between the two nations. It was mentioned that President Obama has acknowledged the importance of learning from past mistakes. She stated that the global financial crisis should not be used as a reason to resort to protectionism. Clinton emphasized the need for increased cooperation between the two countries in combatting terrorism and improving intelligence-sharing, without giving specifics. She expressed commitment to helping India enhance its security measures, referencing the American casualties in the Mumbai attacks. Clinton also praised the recent meeting between the leaders of India and Pakistan, the first since the attacks, and expressed confidence that both India and the United States would support Pakistan in its efforts to combat terrorism within its borders. | 1 |
In the years following the last time Iraqis showed their ink-stained fingers as proof of voting in a free election, the country has experienced and emerged from a brutal sectarian war. As Iraq's leaders, citizens, and US officials with troops stationed there await the upcoming elections at the end of the month, there is a sense of anticipation. Despite the challenges, there is a strong enthusiasm for democracy nearly six years after the US-led invasion. Over 400 parties and groups have registered to field a large number of candidates for a limited number of provincial council seats. Campaigning has led to the rapid appearance of campaign posters on the concrete blast walls that have become a common sight in Iraq. The most significant accomplishment of the election might just be the act of conducting it. According to Western diplomats, a subsequent round of elections, such as this one, can prove to be a more difficult milestone for a fledgling democracy compared to the initial one. U.S. ambassador Ryan Crocker stated, "A single election does not establish a democracy. It is a series of elections that truly do." The election serves as a crucial indication that Iraq has moved past the peak of violence that plagued the country following the 2003 invasion and intensified after the previous election in 2005. Just 18 months ago, it may have been impossible to hold a vote due to the high monthly death tolls from violence. Many Iraqis are hoping the upcoming election will bring about reform in regional governments that are perceived as corrupt, unaccountable, and influenced by feuding sectarian groups. There is a widespread belief that current leaders have performed poorly, according to a senior Western diplomat. However, the potential for violence remains high in a country where political disputes are often settled with guns and bombs. Recently, two candidates have been assassinated and the deputy head of a Sunni Arab party was killed in a suicide bombing during a meeting with other candidates. The upcoming provincial election will have a significant impact on the national election later this year, where Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki will be seeking to retain his position. This will determine the direction of Iraq's future post the departure of U.S. forces by the end of 2011. In the predominantly Shi'ite south, Maliki's ruling coalition will be competing against each other, with the Supreme Islamic Iraqi Council (ISCI) currently holding control. Maliki aims to gain support for his Dawa Party by promising improved services from a centralized government. Supporters of Moqtada al-Sadr, a Shiite cleric who has a history of opposing the United States and led the Mehdi Army militia in southern towns until a crackdown by Maliki last year, are maintaining a low profile. They are not running as a unified group, but instead are endorsing independent lists of candidates. In Sunni Arab regions in western and central Iraq, tribal factions called "Awakening Councils" will be participating in the election for the first time. These councils aided U.S. troops in ousting Sunni extremists, such as al Qaeda, and are now seeking to gain control from traditional Sunni religious parties. Most of the violence leading up to the election has occurred in the north, particularly in Nineveh province near Mosul, where U.S. forces continue to engage in combat with Sunni militants who are resisting after being pushed out of other territories. The last election saw many Sunni Arabs not participating, which allowed Kurds to gain control of the provincial government in a province where they are a minority. This imbalance has contributed to unrest, according to Western diplomats. While the election could eventually help reduce violence by involving Sunnis in politics, the changing power dynamics in the province have given militant groups a reason to fight. In Kirkuk, a potentially volatile situation has been avoided as the election has been postponed indefinitely due to disagreements among Kurds, Arabs, and Turkmen over voting rules. | 1 |
India has introduced a new national climate plan to address the issue of global warming by emphasizing renewable energy for sustainable growth. The plan does not include specific emission targets that could hinder economic progress. The focus is on utilizing renewable energy sources like solar power and improving energy efficiency. A climate change fund will be established to support research on environmentally friendly technologies. Experts believe that the policy aligns with India's current stance on climate change and may not satisfy wealthier western nations seeking greater commitments from India, a major polluter. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh stated that the goal is to make India's economic development more energy efficient, ensuring that citizens have access to economic and social progress and alleviating widespread poverty. Despite India's commitment to clean technology, coal remains the primary source of power, making up around 60 percent of generation. The government plans to add 70,000 megawatts in the next five years. A recent report by Goldman Sachs warned that climate change could have negative impacts on India's environment, including decreased cultivable land, reduced productivity, and increased toxic waste. India argues that it needs more energy to lift its population out of poverty and points out that its per-capita emissions are much lower than those of wealthy nations. In 2004, India's per-capita emissions of carbon dioxide were 1.2 tonnes, compared to 20.6 tonnes for the United States. India, with an economy that has been growing at a rate of 8-9 percent annually, is responsible for approximately 4 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the need for development, Prime Minister Singh stated that India's per capita emissions will not surpass those of developed industrialized countries. As a developing country, India is not currently obligated to reduce emissions under the Kyoto Protocol, even though they are increasing by 2 to 3 percent each year. Singh mentioned that India is open to transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources gradually, indicating that their plan is not set in stone. "It is intended to adapt and adjust in response to changing circumstances." Currently, key components of India's climate change strategy include improving energy efficiency, utilizing solar energy, preserving water resources, promoting sustainable agriculture, protecting the Himalayan ecosystem, and creating sustainable habitats to establish a "green India." Singh emphasized that while people desire better living standards, they also value access to clean water, fresh air, and a healthy environment. | 1 |
The increasing demand for olive oil worldwide is revitalizing rural areas in North Africa, where olive oil has been a traditional product for centuries. However, local producers are struggling with challenges such as drought, outdated production methods, and inadequate marketing as more countries enter the olive oil market. Tunisia and Morocco, lacking significant energy reserves like their OPEC-member neighbors Algeria and Libya, see olive oil as a valuable alternative export due to their dry, hot climates. The majority of the world's olive trees are found in the Mediterranean region, with Spain leading the industry from its stronghold in Martos, followed by Italy and Greece. After making significant investments in modern machinery, the quality of Tunisian olive oil has improved to the point where it is now fetching prices similar to those of Spanish olive oil, according to industry officials. Efforts by North Africa to close the gap in quality have been well-received by European producers who are struggling to keep up with the global demand for olive oil as middle-class populations in countries like Brazil and Russia develop a taste for it. Despite being more costly than other cooking oils, olive oil is preferred for its higher levels of healthy mono-unsaturated fat and polyphenols. Tunisians, regardless of their economic status, have developed their expertise in olive oil production over many centuries, using it not only in cooking but also in medicines, beauty products, soaps, and as a moisturizer. Hamed, a 90-year-old Tunisian man, credits his good health to drinking a glass of olive oil every morning, while his wife uses it in every meal they prepare. More than half a million families in Tunisia depend on the olive oil industry, which is supported by 56 million olive trees spread across 1.6 million hectares of land. The olive harvest, which takes place from November to February, plays a significant role in the rural calendar, prompting many Tunisians to return to their hometowns to participate in gathering the crop. Women can be heard singing traditional songs and trading jokes while collecting the olives that have fallen to the ground. "My entire family benefits from a successful olive harvest, like the one we are having this year," said Haj Smida, a farmer from el-Jem in eastern Tunisia. Salem Rhaim, a 68-year-old olive oil producer, had to postpone his son's wedding due to a poor harvest last year. Rhaim expressed optimism about the upcoming harvest and mentioned the expensive wedding preparations that he will be able to afford if the harvest is successful. Despite having local expertise, Tunisian producers struggle to sell their good-quality oil at export prices due to technological limitations. Some producers are accused of entering the olive oil market solely for tax benefits, resulting in poor-quality products that damage the industry's reputation. Abdelmajid Mahjoub, the owner of an old olive press in Tbourba, highlighted the issue of inadequate packaging hindering export opportunities. He stated that more effort is needed in order for their products to be able to compete with those from Spain, Greece, and Italy. In Morocco, the government is providing financial incentives to expand olive cultivation to 1 million hectares by 2010, up from just 1,000 hectares in 1999. Some of the production will be used to meet local demand in a country that imports 300,000 tonnes of vegetable oils annually. Mohamed, who is 42 years old and resides in Ain Balidan on the outskirts of the Rif mountains in northern Morocco, currently grows just enough olives for his family. He has recently planted numerous additional trees provided by the government. He expressed a desire to have more land for planting olive trees, as prices have been increasing. In Morocco, olive trees represent hope for many facing drought or desertification, and could serve as a legal alternative to growing cannabis. The climate in Morocco has changed in the past decade, prompting a search for plants that can help preserve nature. Morocco, along with Algeria, needs to update their technology, which has remained largely unchanged since ancient times. Some olive oil presses still use traditional methods involving a donkey walking in circles to crush olives. Jose Ramon Diez, an olive expert at the Spanish farm union ASAJA in Madrid, stated that the world market has great potential for growth as olive oil currently only makes up 2.8 percent of the fat consumed. Last year, Spain's olive harvest declined, leading some farmers in northern Morocco to report that Spanish traders had approached them to purchase olives. Italy, the second-largest olive oil producer, purchases some oil for re-export labeled as "Imported From Italy" and has been assisting the Tunisian industry in updating its machinery. Italian oil buyers express a desire for more consistent quality standards from North African producers and frustration with having to go through intermediaries instead of contacting them directly. Mauro Miloni, who heads the economic observatory of Italian olive oil industry group Unaprol, stated that having more exports from North Africa would help to counterbalance the dominance of Spain in the market. He emphasized the importance of being able to purchase olive oil from various sources and predicted that with the liberalization of trade in the future, there could be even stronger ties with North African producers. | 1 |
Gray, a prominent figure in the Labor party in Western Australia, needs to ensure that there is still a strong advocate for the resources industry as investment in the sector slows down due to signs that the mining boom has reached its peak. Prime Minister Julia Gillard has announced that the Climate Change Department, responsible for the controversial carbon tax, will be merged with the Industry Department and overseen by Climate Change Minister Greg Combet. Despite this reshuffle, there have been no changes to the Treasury or Finance Ministry, which are held by Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan and Penny Wong. The reshuffle was prompted by a failed leadership coup by supporters of former leader Kevin Rudd, leading to the resignation of three cabinet ministers and two junior ministers. Gillard has scheduled elections for September 14, which polls suggest she is likely to lose, so the impact of the reshuffle may be limited. Former Resources Minister Martin Ferguson, known for his support of the mining industry, was one of the officials who resigned. Australia has seen significant investments in resources projects, including A$400 billion in the past decade and A$200 billion in liquefied natural gas projects. Despite this, the mining boom is slowing. The Australian Mines and Metals Association (AMMA) believes that Gray, who has ties to the industry, will help attract investment. Gray, who joined the Labor party in 1974, left in 2000 to work for Wesfarmers and later as a public relations adviser for Woodside Petroleum. Shell decided to retract its offer after it was seen as detrimental to the country's interests by Treasurer Peter Costello, partly due to Gray's efforts to rally public opinion against Shell. The exchange rate at that time was $1 equal to 0.9572 Australian dollars. | 1 |
The finance minister emphasized the need for the United Nations to advocate for global action on climate change and food security to alleviate poverty in today's world. He stated that addressing these issues is crucial for ensuring peace, as many countries, including Bangladesh, are facing natural disasters due to climate change, which are hindering food production and poverty alleviation efforts. The finance minister urged the UN to prioritize these issues, as discussed at a seminar marking United Nations Day. | 1 |
In Washington on August 9, the leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, known as "the three amigos," are beginning a summit in Mexico to discuss trade issues and the threat posed by drug gangs. President Barack Obama, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Mexican President Felipe Calderon will meet in Guadalajara for dinner on Sunday night, followed by talks on Monday. Their main priorities include boosting their economies, maintaining smooth trade relations, and addressing the issue of Mexican drug gangs operating across the U.S. border and into Canada. While major agreements are not expected to be announced, Obama's national security adviser, Jim Jones, believes the summit will serve as a step towards future agreements. Calderon is likely to pressure Obama to resolve a dispute over cross-border trucking. According to the North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican trucks are supposed to be permitted to enter the United States, but American trucking companies argue that Mexican trucks are not safe. This issue has been ongoing for years. In response to the cancellation of a program allowing Mexican trucks to operate beyond the U.S. border zone, Mexico imposed tariffs totaling $2.4 billion on U.S. goods in March. U.S. business groups have been urging the White House to resolve the dispute, as they believe the ban could result in the loss of thousands of American jobs. Mexico's ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, expressed the desire for a final resolution to the trucking issue. He mentioned that he wants to reach an agreement by the end of the year. Michael Froman, a top official at the White House, informed reporters that the Obama administration is actively working with the U.S. Congress to address safety concerns. Canadian officials are concerned about the "Buy American" components of a $787 billion economic stimulus package, which they fear could exclude Canadian companies from U.S. construction contracts funded by the stimulus. Canada is the United States' biggest trading partner. Froman stated that the Obama administration is in discussions with Canada and other countries to enforce the 'Buy American' provision in a manner that complies with the law and international obligations, while also minimizing trade disruptions. Obama addressed a potential concern before his trip by stating that now is not the right time to reopen the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) and add enforceable labor and environmental protections. He acknowledged the difficult economic situation and expressed interest in improving the treaty in the future. Another key issue at the summit is how to address the violence caused by Mexican drug gangs, despite President Calderon's efforts to combat them. Obama is supporting Calderon's actions in going after drug traffickers, praising his courage. During a visit in April, Obama promised full support to Calderon. However, Mexico is frustrated with the slow arrival of anti-drug equipment and training. The leaders will also discuss H1N1 swine flu and climate change as they prepare for international talks in Copenhagen in December. | 1 |
It has taken several weeks for European Union countries to reach an agreement on the details of the new measure. Talks will continue over the weekend before the European Commission finalizes a proposal for approval by EU ambassadors. The ambassadors are expected to meet on Wednesday and give their final approval by the end of the week, according to EU officials and diplomats involved in the process. The oil embargo is set to be the most significant new action in the EU's sixth round of sanctions since Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24. The package will also include sanctions against Russia's largest bank, Sberbank, and additional measures targeting prominent Russians. Diplomats and officials are speaking anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the discussions. Unless Hungary makes a last-minute demand, the process should be completed smoothly without the need for an EU leaders' meeting. This will prevent the time-consuming task of gathering all 27 heads of state in Brussels. The embargo is expected to impact Russian oil transported by tankers faster than oil coming through pipelines, which could take several months. It is likely that the EU will allow its members to gradually end existing contracts with Russian oil companies, similar to how it handled the coal ban by giving four months for full implementation. Germany's role has been crucial in finalizing this new measure, as the country, being the bloc's economic leader, was importing around one-third of its oil from Russia before the Ukraine invasion. However, Germany's influential energy minister, Robert Habeck, stated this week that the country has managed to reduce its dependence on Russian oil imports to just 12% in recent weeks, making a full embargo "manageable." Habeck made these comments during a visit to Warsaw, Poland, where he mentioned that what seemed like a significant problem for Germany a few weeks ago has now become much smaller. He noted that Germany is very close to achieving independence from Russian oil imports, although he did not provide details on how this was achieved so quickly. Russia is Europe's largest oil supplier, accounting for about a quarter of the bloc's annual needs, based on 2020 data, which is approximately half of Russia's total exports. As the oil embargo is gradually implemented, officials have indicated that the EU will look to increase imports from other sources, including countries in the Persian Gulf, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan. Despite a phased-in approach to the embargo, it is expected to impact global oil prices and exacerbate already high energy costs worldwide. US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen suggested the idea of imposing tariffs or a price cap on Russia's oil instead of a complete embargo to reduce its impact, but European officials did not support this proposal. | 1 |
The world's longest serving monarch has appointed Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn to represent him in granting an audience for the presentation of credentials of new ambassadors. The Bangladesh mission in Bangkok confirmed this, stating that during the presentation of credentials at Ambara Villa, Tasneem presented goodwill messages from President Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to the King. She also expressed her commitment to strengthening bilateral relations during her term. Tasneem also holds the position of non-resident ambassador of Bangladesh to Cambodia, and Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the UNESCAP. Last November, upon her arrival in Bangkok, she presented her 'letter of introduction' as Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to UNESCAP to the executive secretary. Earlier this year, she officially presented her credentials as the non-resident ambassador of Cambodia in June. In accordance with Thai customs, there is a process for submitting credentials in Bangkok, but ambassadors are able to start their duties soon after joining the mission. During discussions, the Crown Prince commended the people of Bangladesh for their hard work and resilience in overcoming various challenges, such as climate change. He also pointed out that Bangladesh and Thailand have similar challenges, especially in regards to climate change and disaster risk reduction. The Crown Prince also mentioned his sister Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's visits to Bangladesh in 2010 and 2011 and showed interest in continuing Thai Royal development projects in the country. Ambassador Tasneem emphasized the significance of improving connectivity between Buddhist followers in both nations and expanding Buddhist circuit tourism to enhance their shared heritage. | 1 |
The Bush administration is rushing to implement environmental policy changes before the end of their term, such as removing wolves from the Endangered Species List and loosening regulations for factory farm waste. Environmental groups are not in favor of these proposed changes, but the one change they do want - a mandatory program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions - is not included in these last-minute regulations. It is unlikely that any significant action will be taken to address global warming during this administration, but both presidential candidates have promised to address it if elected. Some organizations are calling for a moratorium on these last-minute rules proposed by government agencies. Eli Lehrer of the Competitive Enterprise Institute stated that the Bush administration, having been in office for eight years, has implemented more regulations than any previous administration. In the current economic climate, Lehrer emphasized that rushing through last-minute regulations would be especially harmful. John Kostyack of the National Wildlife Federation, in agreement with Lehrer, called for a ban on these regulations, arguing that citizens are excluded from the process, leading to changes in U.S. law that the public may oppose, such as weakening protections under the Endangered Species Act. The Bush administration has pushed for these regulations to be finalized by Saturday, before President George W. Bush leaves office on January 20th. Matt Madia of OMB Watch stated that if these regulations are put into effect, they will be difficult for the next administration to reverse. He mentioned that this may not be a top priority for a new president. Madia noted that the administration's rush to implement these rules is a common response to nearing the end of their term. He also mentioned that industries such as electricity, mining, and agriculture are likely to benefit from these rules, as they will be able to pollute more due to reduced government restrictions, ultimately harming the public. The speed at which some environmental measures are moving through the process is what is unusual. For instance, a rule proposed by the Interior Department that would weaken protections for endangered species to benefit mining interests received over 300,000 public comments, which officials said they would review in a week, a pace that Madia described as "pretty ludicrous." The rush is due to the fact that rules become effective 30 to 60 days after being finalized, and if they are not in effect when the next president takes office, that president can choose not to enforce them, as Bush did with many rules finalized at the end of the Clinton administration. White House spokesman Tony Fratto denied that the Bush administration was rushing these regulations through hastily. Fratto dismissed claims that the administration is attempting to undermine regulations that benefit businesses, stating to White House reporters that the objective is to prevent a rush of last-minute rules from the previous administration. One proposal that has garnered support from conservation groups is the plan to establish the largest marine wildlife sanctuary in the Pacific Ocean, which may be implemented on January 20. | 1 |
Malaysia's ruling coalition sent 41 lawmakers to Taiwan for a study tour, while opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim attempted to persuade MPs to defect in his bid to overthrow the government. Opposition leaders were strategizing on how to remove the government by September 16, but Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi called for a meeting to prevent any defections that could end the coalition's 50-year rule. Anwar's efforts to disrupt the political order established since independence in 1957 have increased Malaysia's political risks and worried foreign investors. The country's growing fiscal deficit, exacerbated by spending to regain popularity after a poor election result in March, has also negatively impacted the currency, stock market, and bond prices. Anwar is facing a new sodomy charge in court on Wednesday, which he believes is a ploy by the government to sabotage his political aspirations, further adding to the atmosphere of uncertainty. Barisan MPs denied any connection to the Anwar situation as they departed for Taiwan on an "agricultural study mission," insisting that their trip was not political in nature. He departed on Monday along with 40 other MPs. An additional eight MPs will leave on Tuesday. Barisan holds 140 MPs compared to the opposition's 82. Lim Kit Siang, an experienced opposition figure, stated that government MPs were compelled to leave Malaysia in order to prevent them from participating in potential "political changes" on September 16. He mentioned that the MPs are now in Taiwan and may be under constant surveillance with their mobile phones confiscated. According to a political analyst, the trip to Taiwan could serve as a convenient excuse for Anwar if he does not meet his September 16 deadline. Columnist Suhaini Aznam wrote in the Star newspaper that Barisan is falling for Anwar's psychological warfare tactics. Anwar held a meeting with leaders of the opposition Pakatan Rakyat alliance on Monday to discuss the takeover plan, with a statement expected to follow. Anwar, who was dismissed as deputy prime minister in 1998 during the Asian financial crisis, served a six-year prison sentence on charges of sodomy and corruption. He emerged victorious in a by-election last month, which enabled him to return to parliament, positioning him to potentially become the prime minister if the opposition alliance secures power. | 1 |
Japan and the European Union have agreed to enhance their collaboration in assisting Afghanistan, combating piracy in Somalia, and initiating discussions to strengthen their trade relations. At a summit held in Tokyo, EU president Herman Van Rompuy emphasized the importance of closer cooperation between Asia's largest economy and the 27-nation bloc in order to play a significant role as global economic and political entities. Japanese Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama confirmed the commitment to work together on achieving peace in crisis situations and post-conflict management, as well as establishing a high-level group to explore economic cooperation for a duration of six to twelve months. Tokyo is eager to negotiate a free-trade agreement similar to the one the EU made with South Korea, Japan's high-tech export competitor. However, Brussels has raised concerns about non-tariff barriers to Japan's market. Van Rompuy has also emphasized the importance of cooperation on various global issues including climate change, poverty, terrorism, economic stability, nuclear non-proliferation, and human rights. He stressed the need for collaboration between the EU and Japan to address these challenges and make a positive impact in a globalized world. Van Rompuy also highlighted the importance of international network security and the threat of attacks on the free movement of goods, people, and information. The networks are at risk, cyber-attacks are a real threat and occur frequently, causing harm. It is crucial to strengthen our defenses against these attacks, especially since both Japan and Europe are deeply interconnected in global networks. Van Rompuy mentioned the importance of economic ties during a briefing at the Japan Press Club, suggesting that a free-trade agreement could boost trade between the two regions. However, he noted that there are still barriers to trade in place, making it difficult to access the Japanese market and causing hesitation from the EU. He suggested that both parties should spend more time identifying their objectives before moving forward. The EU has requested that Japan address non-tariff barriers, such as product safety and government procurement rules, before proceeding with negotiations. Tanaka, a professor at Keio University, noted that the EU has criticized Japan for non-tariff barriers but is hesitant to sign a free-trade agreement. In contrast, Japan is eager for a deal with the EU, especially after seeing the success of the EU-South Korea agreement. At the moment, the European Union enforces tariffs of 10 percent on vehicle imports and 14 percent on electronics. However, South Korean companies like Samsung, LG, and Hyundai Motor will eventually be relieved of these tariffs. This puts Japanese manufacturers at a significant disadvantage when selling their products in the European market, according to Tanaka. The EU delegation will soon head to China for a comparable summit in Shanghai, coinciding with the start of the World Expo on Saturday. | 1 |
The government has designated focal points within ministries to address climate change. Finance minister AMA Muhith reported in parliament that the establishment of a climate cell was proceeding smoothly. He stated that one focal point has been designated in each ministry, and that the Climate Change Trust Fund and Policy have been formulated. Muhith also mentioned that various programs are being implemented in accordance with the policy. The government has allocated Tk 7 billion for the climate change fund. | 1 |
Russia is planning to increase its greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent by 2020, as announced by President Dmitry Medvedev. This plan aims to reduce emissions by 10-15 percent from 1990 levels when Russia was part of the Soviet Union. Environmentalists are unhappy with this target, as it falls short of expectations from developing countries. The announcement by Medvedev is seen as the beginning of negotiations for a new climate treaty in December to replace the Kyoto Protocol. During the ongoing discussions, wealthy countries are expected to put forward their proposed mid-term emissions targets. Russia recently became the final major country to do so. Environmental organizations and developing nations are urging industrialized countries to decrease their emissions by 25-40 percent below 1990 levels, as recommended by a U.N. panel of climate scientists. Russian President Medvedev stated on state television that, given the current circumstances, emissions could be reduced by about 10-15 percent by 2020. The Kremlin's chief economic adviser, Arkady Dvorkovich, later clarified that this reduction would be measured from 1990 levels, predating the collapse of the Soviet Union and Russia's heavy industry. Since then, Russia's carbon emissions have increased again due to its industrial revival, solidifying its position as the third largest polluter globally, following China and the United States. President Medvedev announced a goal on Friday to reduce cumulative greenhouse gas emissions by 30 billion tonnes from 1990 to 2020. This means Russia is expected to emit around 3 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases in 2020, up from 2.2 billion tonnes in 2007. Medvedev emphasized the importance of maintaining development while meeting emission reduction targets. Russia is obligated under the Kyoto Protocol to bring its emissions back to 1990 levels by 2008-2012. Green groups and developing countries were not pleased with Japan's recent proposals for a 2020 target, which were only slightly more ambitious than the Kyoto Protocol goal. Similarly, they were disappointed by Russia's announcement last Friday. Medvedev stated that Russia would approach greenhouse gas emissions responsibly and expected other countries to do the same, emphasizing the importance of collective action in addressing climate change. Dvorkovich also mentioned the need to find a balance between addressing climate change and meeting Russia's economic growth objectives. Experts viewed the goal announced on Friday as the initial move in a six-month series of intense discussions aimed at reaching a new climate agreement in Copenhagen this year. Nina Korobova, head of the Russian operations of Global Carbon, a clean energy project developer, stated that while it is a positive first step, she believes other countries will push for greater emissions reductions from Russia, leading to further negotiations. Despite previous reluctance from Russia's top Kyoto officials under Vladimir Putin's presidency to commit to mandatory emissions cuts, Korobova believes Russia could feasibly achieve a 20 percent reduction by 2020, even in worst-case scenarios. | 1 |
Finance leaders from the world's top industrialized nations came together in Tokyo to address the economic slowdown and acknowledged that the situation could worsen due to the deteriorating U.S. housing market. In a statement released after their meetings, the Group of Seven mentioned that economic growth prospects had declined since their last meeting in October, but emphasized that the fundamentals were still strong and the U.S. economy was expected to avoid a recession. Italian Economy Minister Tommaso Padoa-Schioppa noted that there was a greater sense of pessimism and concern compared to October. The finance ministers and central bankers from Japan, the United States, Canada, Britain, Germany, Italy, and France stated that growth in their respective countries was expected to slow to varying degrees in the short term. They highlighted the significant risks posed by the U.S. housing market slump and the resulting tightening of credit conditions, which has impacted the flow of money to consumers and businesses that drive the global economy. Banks burdened by debt are reducing lending due to increasing losses related to declining U.S. home loans exceeding $100 billion. This has led to concerns of a harmful cycle where consumer spending decreases, causing businesses to cut jobs. Glenn Maguire, Asia Pacific chief economist with Societe Generale in Hong Kong, pointed out that the G7 did not provide much detail on coordinated efforts to support the economy. He stated that the economic shock and downturn are mainly due to U.S. domestic issues and cannot be solved by a globally coordinated plan. U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson mentioned that global markets might experience a prolonged period of instability. In prepared remarks issued after the meeting, Paulson stated that the ongoing financial crisis is severe and enduring. He also mentioned that as the financial markets recover from the stress, there will likely be continued volatility as risk is reevaluated. The G7 leaders emphasized the importance of banks fully disclosing their losses and strengthening their balance sheets to help restore normal market functioning. German finance minister Peer Steinbrueck warned that writeoffs could amount to $400 billion. The leaders also pledged to closely monitor developments and take necessary actions to ensure stability and growth in their economies. Promises to collaborate on restoring the financial system's health were overshadowed by disagreements over fiscal and monetary policies leading up to the G7 meeting. Concerns were raised in Europe over the US Federal Reserve's rapid interest rate cuts and fiscal stimulus package, potentially causing a divide among allies on how to prevent a global economic downturn. However, tensions eased when the European Central Bank indicated a possible rate cut, aligning with other central banks. French Economy Minister Christine Lagarde welcomed this move but emphasized the need for further action. European leaders were particularly worried about the euro's strength, which reached a record high against the dollar after the Fed started cutting rates in September. However, the currency declined after the ECB changed its stance. Currency issues were not a top priority at Saturday's meeting due to more urgent economic concerns. The communique echoed the October statement, emphasizing the need for China to allow its yuan currency to appreciate faster. G7 leaders believe that China's undervalued yuan gives them an unfair advantage in trade and are urging Beijing to increase domestic investment to help balance the global economy. The statement also recommended that oil exporters increase their production following a brief period where oil prices exceeded $100 per barrel last month. Despite prices falling afterwards, they surged by 4 percent to $91.77 on Friday - marking the largest increase in almost two months - due to supply disruptions and an approaching cold front in the U.S. | 1 |
The foreign ministry announced that she had a courtesy meeting with the new Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen at his office on Sunday. She stated that the UK will maintain its support for Bangladesh's goal to become an Upper Middle Income Country by 2021 and achieve the SDGs by 2030. High Commissioner Blake reaffirmed her government's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. Momen requested the UK to continue supporting Bangladesh in the event of a Brexit deal separating the UK from the EU. Both parties agreed to collaborate on trade and investment, good governance, enhancing economic partnership, addressing the Rohingya crisis, migration issues, and combating climate change. She mentioned that British investors are highly interested in doing business in various sectors in Bangladesh, with a focus on infrastructure. Blake commended Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government for their significant contributions to women empowerment, poverty reduction, and economic and social development. Momen expressed gratitude for the UK's support in the Rohingya crisis and requested for further assistance in ensuring the safe return of those displaced by violence in Rakhine to their homes in Myanmar. Blake also praised Bangladesh for providing shelter to the largest number of forcibly-displaced Rohingya, and assured that the British government and people will continue to assist Bangladesh in resolving the crisis. The new foreign minister also acknowledged the support received from the British people and government during Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War. | 1 |
The meeting took place at the office of Jhalakathi Deputy Commissioner Md Johor Ali on Monday, with the additional secretaries to the ministry of environment, forest and climate change, Sanjay Kumar Bhowmik and Md Mizanul Haque Chowdhury, also in attendance, as stated in a release from the UNDP. During the presentation, Malik Fida A Khan, executive director of CEGIS, emphasized the importance of the National Adaptation Plan (NAP), highlighting that it is a participatory and country-driven process that will address Bangladesh's medium to long-term adaptation needs and help transform the country into one that is resilient to climate change. Khan also mentioned that NAP will focus on the climate vulnerabilities of coastal regions, address capacity gaps, and establish a knowledge management system for climate change adaptation. The consultation addressed the significant climatic risks present in various coastal districts, including Jhalakathi, and discussed the adaptation strategies utilized by farmers and the factors influencing their choice of strategies. Jhalakathi and similar coastal areas face heightened salinity in both groundwater and surface water resources, particularly along the coast, due to rising sea levels caused by global warming. Participants recognized that smallholder farmers' livelihoods are at risk due to climatic hazards like cyclones, soil and water salinity, storm surges, heavy rainfall, and the resulting flooding and waterlogging. They emphasized the need for a comprehensive plan to tackle these challenges. AKM Azad Rahman, a UNDP climate change program officer, pledged full support from the UNDP to Bangladesh in the fight against climate change. Sanjay Bhowmik stated that they are collaborating closely with the government to create sustainable projects in coastal areas. He mentioned that the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) will guide their efforts and will be integrated into national planning. Ownership of the NAP is being transferred through consultations. Bhowmik stressed the importance of partnerships at both national and local levels for successful implementation of the NAP. Mizanul, the national project director, explained that the NAP will align with national planning processes and support various existing plans. He highlighted the need to raise awareness to address climate change and protect the environment. Johor Ali suggested that rainwater harvesting could be a beneficial adaptation strategy for coastal regions. The event was co-organised by the ministry, Economic Relations Division, and the UNDP with assistance from the Green Climate Fund. | 1 |
Leaders of 16 Asian countries, including China and Japan, came to a tentative agreement on climate change, setting vague goals to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the long term. The pact, signed in Singapore, lacks specific targets for reducing emissions but will be used as a starting point for discussions at a UN meeting in Bali. The East Asia Summit countries also agreed that all nations should contribute to addressing climate change based on their individual capabilities. Singapore's Prime Minister explained that the agreement is a statement of intent rather than a binding treaty. Australia believes that the pact will help in negotiating a replacement for the Kyoto Protocol, which aims to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The United Nations is optimistic that the Bali meeting will initiate two years of discussions to establish a new global framework for combating climate change. Australia's Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, noted a shift in China and India's stance on the issue, with both countries acknowledging the need to address emissions. However, China and India have not committed to specific targets and are urging developed nations to lead in emissions reductions and support clean energy technology. Despite some reservations, Australia understands the challenges in reaching a consensus on this issue. Emmanuel Fages, a carbon analyst at French bank Societe Generale, pointed out that countries like China and India are not yet prepared to take the lead on climate change like Japan. He emphasized the diversity of Asia and noted that the only specific target in the climate pact was related to increasing forest cover. The group aimed to increase forest area by 15 million hectares by 2020. The focus on climate change and trade was overshadowed by concerns about Myanmar's lack of democracy during ASEAN's 40th anniversary celebrations. Myanmar's reluctance to embrace democracy strained the group's adoption of a legal charter. The Philippines stood out from other Association of South East Asian Nations members by demanding the immediate release of detained Myanmar opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo expressed strong disapproval of Suu Kyi's treatment and insisted on her immediate release. Arroyo also warned that the Philippine Congress may not ratify the charter if Myanmar does not demonstrate a commitment to democracy and release Suu Kyi. The charter, which provides ASEAN with a legal identity and includes principles of democracy and human rights, must be ratified within 12 months after being signed on Tuesday. Singapore's Lee stated that all countries must ratify it for it to take effect. He also mentioned that the sanctions imposed by Western countries on Myanmar were ineffective due to the regime's decision to isolate itself from the international community. Lee emphasized that choosing not to do business in Myanmar has no impact on the regime. | 1 |
Delegates at U.N. talks in Ghana suggested that new greenhouse gases produced during the manufacturing of flat-screen televisions or refrigerants could be limited under a planned U.N. treaty to address global warming. The emissions of these newly developed industrial gases, such as nitrogen trifluoride and fluorinated ethers, make up a small percentage of emissions from traditional greenhouse gases in wealthy nations, but their levels are increasing rapidly. Yvo de Boer, head of the U.N. Climate Change Secretariat, expressed support for including these gases in the group of six already restricted by the Kyoto Protocol in order to combat global warming. He stated during talks in Ghana that it is logical to address all gases that contribute to climate change in order to work out the details of a new treaty to combat global warming. Covering more gases provides countries with greater flexibility to determine the best ways to reduce emissions. He emphasized that it is the responsibility of governments to make decisions. Over 190 nations have agreed to create a new pact to replace Kyoto as part of efforts to prevent the negative impacts of rising temperatures. Originally, the European Union had pushed for the Kyoto treaty to only focus on carbon dioxide emissions from burning fossil fuels. Livestock emissions contribute to greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and five other gases such as industrial nitrous oxide and methane. These gases, along with new gases like nitrogen trifluoride and fluorinated ethers, have strengthened Kyoto. Carbon dioxide is the primary gas, accounting for 80 percent of emissions, while other new gases like iodotrifluoromethane and methyl chloroform are used in the electronics industry or as by-products of industry. Fluorinated ethers have been used as replacements for ozone-damaging gases in some refrigerants. According to a technical report presented to delegates, there is limited knowledge about the sources, current and future emissions, and atmospheric levels of these gases. The report stated that emissions in 1990 were assumed to be minimal but are now increasing rapidly. It was estimated that current annual emissions were equivalent to less than 50 million tonnes of carbon dioxide, which is only 0.3 percent of greenhouse gas emissions from wealthy nations. The report also mentioned that the impact of adding new gases to carbon markets is uncertain but could potentially increase the demand for tradable units under the Kyoto Protocol. However, setting up new monitoring systems could be expensive and may divert attention from more critical gases. Harald Dovland, a Norwegian official leading a group in Accra that is examining new commitments by supporters of the Kyoto Protocol, stated that he is pushing the issue in order to gain a better understanding. The Kyoto Protocol requires 37 wealthy nations to reduce emissions by 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2008-12. Dovland mentioned that although there are currently not large amounts of these new gases being emitted, many parties are eager to prevent any increases. | 1 |
South Africa's business confidence slightly decreased in March, remaining just above a four-year low reached in January, according to the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The business confidence index (BCI) was at 93.9 in March, down from 94.0 in February and 93.8 in January, the lowest level since October 2003. SACCI attributed the decrease to a weaker exchange rate and high inflation, but noted that strong share prices and lower real financing costs helped prevent a larger decline in the index. The organization stated that due to the current uncertain global economic climate and lower economic growth prospects locally and globally, the BCI has remained stable. However, despite challenging conditions and fragile confidence, the chamber noted that strong inflation remained an issue. While easier money supply and credit growth figures suggested that the central bank's tightening of monetary policy may be controlling consumer spending, the Reserve Bank faces a difficult decision on interest rates next week. The repo rate has remained at 11 percent since January after several increases since June 2006. Although the rate hike cycle was paused due to concerns about economic growth, inflation continues to rise, with the CPIX reaching a five-year high of 9.4 percent year-on-year in February. SACCI stated that monetary policy is facing the tough task of balancing the risks of increasing inflation and price instability with constrained economic activity. Lower international oil and food prices may provide some temporary relief, but a weaker rand and South Africa's tendency to import could contribute to inflation expectations. The statement emphasized that business confidence is currently at a critical point, and economic policy decisions should be made cautiously. | 1 |
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg described the upcoming summit as a significant moment aimed at moving past the tensions of the previous four years under Donald Trump's presidency. Despite Trump's criticism of the alliance, diplomats emphasize the importance of NATO in addressing various threats, from climate change to Russian interference in democracies. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson stressed the need for NATO to adapt and evolve to confront new challenges and emerging threats, underscoring the alliance's role in ensuring the safety of billions of people. Discussions at the summit are expected to focus on Russia's efforts to sow division within the West, as well as NATO's ongoing efforts to strengthen its defenses against cyber attacks and disinformation. The European Leadership Network (ELN) research group stated in a paper released for the summit that cyber threats can arise at any time during a crisis and lead to misunderstandings and unintended signals that may lead to war. Diplomats emphasize the importance of President Biden reaffirming the United States' commitment to NATO's collective defense following the confrontational stance taken by Trump towards allies at NATO summits from 2017 to 2019, which created a sense of crisis. Leaders are also expected to address China's increasing military and economic presence in the Atlantic, as well as joint military exercises with Russia, with a strong response. Additionally, a commitment to achieving carbon neutrality for NATO militaries by 2050 is anticipated. The leaders of the G7 countries came to an agreement on Sunday to increase their financial commitments in order to meet a pledge of $100 billion annually from wealthy nations to assist developing countries in reducing carbon emissions and dealing with the effects of climate change. | 1 |
President George W Bush will host German Chancellor Angela Merkel at his Texas ranch in an effort to demonstrate unity on Iran despite Tehran's defiance on its nuclear program. The invitation to Crawford, Texas, is meant to signify a close relationship, and Merkel will spend two days at the ranch where they will engage in discussions on various global issues, potentially going hiking as well. White House spokeswoman Dana Perino stated that the ranch provides a great setting for both a social visit and in-depth conversations. Merkel will be the second European leader this week to receive special treatment from Bush, following French President Nicolas Sarkozy who recently visited Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. As his time in office winds down, Bush remains committed to putting pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear activities. Iran has rejected UN demands to stop nuclear activities that could be used for both civilian and military purposes. President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad insists that Iran's nuclear program is not negotiable and reveals that there are 3,000 centrifuges in the Natanz plant. While German companies continue to do business with Iran, the United States is taking a firmer stance against Tehran. The White House National Security Council spokesperson, Gordon Johndroe, has stated that there is overall agreement on strategy, but some minor differences in tactics. Earlier this week, Merkel announced that Germany would back stricter UN sanctions against Iran if Tehran did not address concerns about its nuclear program. Bush has also criticized Iran, mentioning the possibility of World War Three if they obtain a nuclear weapon, causing concern among European allies. The Bush administration claims to be committed to diplomacy but has not ruled out any options. Perino mentioned that the two leaders would discuss working together on diplomatic efforts to convince Iran to stop uranium reprocessing and enrichment, as well as other issues such as Afghanistan, the Middle East, Iraq, climate change, and economic matters like the Doha trade round. A high-ranking official from Germany, who requested to remain anonymous, stated that Merkel and Sarkozy had decided to present a united stance on Iran, the Middle East peace process, and climate change when speaking with Bush. It is anticipated that Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States will convene this month to review reports from the International Atomic Energy Agency regarding Iran's adherence to international requirements. According to Daniel Benjamin, a researcher at the Brookings Institution, relations between the U.S. and Germany have gotten better since Merkel replaced Gerhard Schroeder. | 1 |
The oldest adornments ever found, perforated shells, were discovered in a limestone cave in eastern Morocco. These shells, some dyed with red ochre, were likely pierced for the purpose of being strung into necklaces or bracelets around 82,000 years ago. This discovery precedes similar adornments found in Algeria, South Africa, and Palestine. The Moroccan government stated that this finding is a significant advancement in understanding cultural innovations and their impact on human history. Despite yielding important prehistoric discoveries, little is known about the humans who lived in Morocco before Berber farmers settled in the region over 2,000 years ago. A group of scientists from Morocco, Britain, France, and Germany discovered and dated the shells in order to investigate the impact of climate and landscape changes on human behavior from 130,000 to 13,000 years ago. This research is part of a larger study examining whether the Strait of Gibraltar, which separates Morocco from Spain, served as a pathway or obstacle for early humans migrating between Africa and Europe. | 1 |
Trump, utilizing the "America First" message he employed during his election campaign, stated that the Paris agreement would harm the US economy, lead to job losses, diminish American sovereignty, and put the country at a long-term disadvantage compared to other nations. Trump made this announcement during a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden on a sunny June day, fulfilling a key promise from his campaign. He emphasized that the US does not want to be mocked by other leaders or countries and that those urging the US to stay in the agreement are the same ones who have cost America trillions of dollars through unfair trade practices and inadequate contributions to military alliances. Republican leaders in the US Congress supported Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell praised Trump for weakening the Obama administration's restrictions on energy production and job creation. On the other hand, supporters of the agreement, including some prominent American business leaders, criticized Trump's move as a setback for global efforts to address the threat of climate change. Former Democratic President Barack Obama expressed disappointment over the US withdrawal from the deal he helped negotiate. Despite this, Obama expressed confidence that states, cities, and businesses in the US would continue to take action to combat climate change and protect the planet for future generations. Trump, who has previously dismissed climate change as a hoax, stated that his administration would start discussions to either rejoin the Paris agreement or create a new agreement that is favorable to the United States. He expressed dissatisfaction with China's terms in the agreement. Global leaders responded with disappointment and frustration, viewing Trump's decision as a rejection of global cooperation. Japanese Environment Minister Koichi Yamamoto expressed his anger at a news conference on Friday in a very direct manner. Leaders from Germany, France, and Italy issued a rare joint statement stating that the climate agreement could not be renegotiated and urged other countries to accelerate their efforts to combat climate change. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau acknowledged the disappointment of the US decision but remained hopeful about the global momentum to combat climate change. Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and top European Union officials are expected to release a joint statement committing both sides to fully implement the Paris accord, marking the first such statement issued by China and the EU. Premier Li reaffirmed China's commitment to fighting climate change during a speech in Berlin the day before. Deputy Prime Minister Arkady Dvorkovich stated that the decision to join the Paris accord was made and unlikely to be changed, according to RIA news agency. A top advisor to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in India also expressed intentions to transition to renewable energy sources, independent of the accord. The United States' withdrawal from the agreement leaves them isolated, as nearly every other nation in the world remains committed to addressing the pressing global issue of climate change. Syria and Nicaragua are the only other countries that have not signed the accord. Fiji's Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama, who will lead the UN Climate Change Conferences that formalized the 2015 pact, expressed his disappointment in Trump's decision. Like other small island nations, Fiji is considered highly susceptible to the effects of global warming and rising ocean levels due to melting polar ice. US business leaders, including Goldman Sachs Group Inc Chief Executive Lloyd Blankfein, criticized the Trump administration's choice, calling it a setback for the environment and US leadership on the world stage. Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk and Walt Disney CEO Robert Iger announced they would be stepping down from White House advisory councils in response to Trump's decision. The Paris agreement, which was a result of years of negotiations, involved both wealthy and developing nations committing to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases from burning fossil fuels, which are believed to contribute to global warming. President Trump rejected the agreement, stating that he was elected to represent the people of Pittsburgh, not Paris. However, Pittsburgh's mayor, Bill Peduto, argued that the city, historically known for its steel industry, supported the accord. The UN Secretary-General's spokesperson expressed disappointment at the decision, and the UN body responsible for climate negotiations stated that the agreement could not be renegotiated based on the demands of one country. Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull expressed his disappointment in the US decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord during a speech in Singapore on Friday. He stated that while the decision was not surprising, Australia remains committed to their Paris commitments. The foreign ministry of South Korea also expressed regret over the US withdrawal, stating that it will undermine international efforts to address climate change. President Trump announced that the US would cease payments to the UN Green Climate Fund, which was established to assist developing nations in dealing with the effects of climate change. The White House confirmed that they would adhere to the UN regulations for withdrawing from the agreement, which require a three-year waiting period from the pact's legal force date of November 4, 2016. The country will need to wait another year before taking action. Tim Cook, the CEO of Apple, shared his disappointment in an email to employees, mentioning that he had tried to convince Trump to remain in the Paris accord during a conversation on Tuesday. Cook felt his efforts were not sufficient. Other corporate executives cautioned that the US economy would lose its edge in technology. Jeff Immelt, the CEO of General Electric, also expressed disappointment, emphasizing the reality of climate change. Industry needs to take charge and not rely on the government, according to critics. Democrats strongly criticized Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, with Senate leader Chuck Schumer calling it a detrimental move for the economy, environment, and global reputation. The US had pledged to reduce emissions by 26-28% by 2025, but now risks falling short of this goal. The US is the second largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, after China. Prominent climate scientists have stated that greenhouse gas emissions are responsible for trapping heat in the atmosphere, resulting in a warming planet, rising sea levels, droughts, and more frequent violent storms. A recent report titled "Global Trends," released by the US Director of National Intelligence's office on Jan. 9, raised concerns about the security risks posed by climate change due to extreme weather events, water and food scarcity, and global tensions regarding how to address these changes. Last year was recorded as the warmest on record since the 19th Century, with global temperatures continuing to rise over the decades, a trend attributed to greenhouse gases by scientists. Frank Rijsberman, Director-General of the Global Green Growth Institute in Seoul, expressed concerns that international funding for climate change mitigation efforts would decrease, citing a $1 billion reduction in US funding to the Green Climate Fund in South Korea. Economists warned that the US withdrawal could potentially lead to job losses in the country. According to data from the International Renewable Energy Agency (Irena), both China and the EU have more workers in the renewable energy sector than the United States. Peter Kiernan of the Economist Intelligence Unit believes that by scaling back the climate agenda, the US will fall behind in the clean energy transition compared to other global players like Europe and China who are showing a greater commitment to deploying low carbon solutions and creating jobs to combat climate change. | 1 |
Europe reached a broad agreement to combat climate change on Friday by compensating eastern European countries to accept measures that will penalize their heavily polluting power sectors and increase electricity prices. The deal, which aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 20% by 2020, was achieved despite economic challenges through various exemptions for industry, leading to criticism from environmental organizations. While some view the policy as lacking leadership and effectiveness, French President Nicolas Sarkozy described it as a historic achievement, emphasizing the strict and binding regulations adopted by the continent. The agreement was reached after a long battle lasting a year, which was mainly focused on a conflict between eastern and western Europe regarding the expenses. The nine eastern European countries were seen as the main obstacle to reaching an agreement on a set of measures aimed at addressing climate change, which would increase costs for their highly polluting coal-fired power industries. A portion of the funds, around 12 percent of revenues from the EU's emissions trading scheme, will be allocated to these countries. This money is meant to recognize the significant decrease in emissions they achieved after the collapse of their industries following the end of communism. Additionally, their power industries were given some exemptions from paying for emissions permits under the ETS, with the amount they need to pay gradually increasing from 30 percent in 2013 to 100 percent in 2020. Hungary and Italy both fought during negotiations for more funding, with Italy specifically protecting its glass, ceramics, paper, and cast iron industries. Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi expressed reluctance to veto the deal due to political repercussions. Measures were put in place to minimize the impact of carbon restrictions on European industry, particularly in sectors like steel, aluminum, cement, and chemicals. Industries facing international competition will be given free emissions permits if they experience a 5 percent cost increase, which is expected to benefit over 90 percent of EU industry. A British diplomat stated that Britain was successful in obtaining increased funding for advanced technology to store emissions from power plants underground in exhausted North Sea gas fields. The diplomat emphasized that Gordon Brown prioritized this initiative for its environmental advantages, as well as the potential for Europe to take the lead in creating jobs and promoting economic growth. | 1 |
Leaders from the world's largest wealthy and developing nations will gather on Thursday to discuss ways to support the economic recovery and establish measures to prevent future disasters. US President Barack Obama, hosting his first Group of 20 summit, has set an agenda that includes addressing the challenge of balancing trade imbalances between countries like China and the heavily indebted United States. Expectations for the summit were modest in the short term, as there was agreement on the need to create a more stable global economy and regulate risky banking practices, but disagreement on the specifics of how to achieve these goals. The two-day meeting in this Pennsylvania city, which has faced economic challenges due to the decline of its steel industry, will begin with bilateral discussions on Thursday. Obama is hosting a reception and working dinner in the evening, marking the third gathering of G20 leaders since a meeting held shortly after the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September 2008, which triggered a global recession. The impact of the recession was felt globally, even in countries that had not been directly affected by the banking crisis, underscoring the interconnectedness of the world economy. As the recession appears to be coming to an end in many countries, the G20 must maintain the same level of urgency seen in April when they agreed to collaborate on rescuing the global economy and pledged significant financial support to the International Monetary Fund. Despite various distractions, the focus remains on addressing economic challenges and fostering international cooperation. Obama is dealing with various domestic policy issues, including healthcare reform. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has an upcoming election. US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner emphasized the need for the US to increase savings, indicating that countries relying on US consumption for their growth should seek alternative sources. However, some countries were hesitant about imposing strict limits on trading imbalances and were opposed to the G20 or International Monetary Fund interfering in domestic economic policies. Geithner clarified that this was not the intention, but due to these concerns, it was unlikely that the G20 would agree on anything more than basic ideas for rebalancing. To highlight the severity of the issue, China's private consumption only makes up a third of its economy, while in the US and Britain, consumption accounted for nearly three-quarters of the economy during prosperous times. In contrast, Chinese and Indian households saved around 40% and 32% of their disposable incomes last year, while the US savings rate was just 3.2%. Many European leaders were advocating for the G20 to place more emphasis on regulating high salaries and bonuses for bankers who made risky investments that later failed. They also wanted to see the United States make more progress on addressing climate change, but it was unlikely that significant progress would be made at the meeting. The United States needs to implement concrete policies before an international meeting on reducing global warming in Copenhagen in December. Emerging economies like Brazil, which were impacted by the financial crisis despite limited exposure to bad assets, were eager to establish stricter regulatory rules at the G20. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva criticized economic models that lacked regulation as outdated and ineffective. | 1 |
During upcoming talks in Beijing, Japanese officials will urge for a prompt resolution to the ongoing disagreement with China regarding disputed gas fields in the East China Sea. Despite recent improvements in relations between the two countries, the issue remains unresolved. The Japanese foreign ministry hopes that China will make a political decision to reach a final agreement on the matter, emphasizing the importance of finding a solution. Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura is expected to bring up the issue during discussions with Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Saturday. Subsequent discussions will cover topics such as macroeconomic policies, Beijing's currency reforms, climate change, and trade and investment following the recent talks. The 11th round of discussions on developing natural gas in the East China Sea concluded without progress, leading to concerns that the dispute could impact Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's planned visit to China. However, China refuted this claim, stating that the gas dispute was not a prerequisite for Fukuda's visit, which is expected to take place later this year or early in 2008. Both sides had previously agreed to report on a compromise to their leaders in the autumn. "This is the moment for us to increase our efforts," he stated. "It is not just about the economic consequences, but also about Japanese public perception." Both parties are keen on obtaining new oil and gas resources, but they have conflicting opinions on the exact location of the maritime boundary that separates their exclusive economic zones. China's state-owned CNOOC Ltd announced in April that they had started gas production from the Tianwaitian field and were prepared to start production from the larger Chunxiao field in the vicinity. This has sparked concerns in Japan, which lacks natural resources, that such production could divert gas from what they consider to be their side of the zone. | 1 |
President Barack Obama expressed his disapproval of WikiLeaks' actions during separate phone calls with Turkish Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan and Mexican President Felipe Calderon on Saturday. Despite the embarrassing release of secret US cables by the website, all leaders agreed that it would not harm their countries' relationships with the United States. The leaks have caused tensions with allies around the world, prompting US officials to try to prevent foreign partners from reducing involvement in sensitive matters. Documents regarding Turkey raised concerns about the reliability of the NATO ally and portrayed its leadership as divided. During Obama's conversation with Erdogan, they emphasized the importance of the US-Turkish partnership and their commitment to collaborating on various issues. The president expressed his regrets for the unacceptable behavior by WikiLeaks and both leaders agreed that it would not affect the strong collaboration between the United States and Turkey. Obama also praised Calderon for his role in the successful outcome of an international climate change conference in Cancun. The importance of the partnership between the US and Mexico on various issues was emphasized by both presidents. They also discussed the negative actions of WikiLeaks and agreed that it should not detract from the important cooperation between the two countries. According to State Department documents released by WikiLeaks, a top Mexican official expressed concerns about the government losing control of certain areas to powerful drug cartels. | 1 |
Italy is one of Bangladesh's top trading partners, with over 200,000 Bangladeshis residing in the country, making it the second largest population of Bangladeshis in Europe after the UK. Despite their long-standing diplomatic ties of over 40 years, the two countries have never held a bilateral meeting until now. Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Vedova is scheduled to meet with Bangladeshi counterpart Md Shahriar Alam, Prime Minister, Speaker, and various ministers during his visit. According to a senior official from the foreign ministry, the relationship between the two countries is smooth and growing, and this meeting marks a new beginning in their relations. This visit is part of Bangladesh's efforts to strengthen ties with its friendly nations, as evidenced by upcoming bilateral meetings with New Zealand and Portugal. Typically, ministers for development affairs from EU countries visit Bangladesh, as they provide aid to the nation. A senior official at the foreign ministry, who requested anonymity, stated that they are currently focused on increasing bilateral talks and have received positive responses. The official mentioned that various bilateral issues will be discussed during the meeting. Bangladesh's exports to Italy exceeded $1.3 billion last fiscal year, a 30% increase from the previous year. Dhaka and Rome have similar stances on international issues such as counterterrorism and climate change. The Prime Minister participated in the Asia-Europe Meeting in Italy last October and has been invited to visit Italy again during the upcoming Expo Milano, which is expected to be the largest show in the world from May 1 to October 31. The official also mentioned that the Prime Minister has invited her Italian counterpart, indicating that the relationship between the two countries is progressing positively. | 1 |
Global leaders worked tirelessly into the early hours of Friday to meet a deadline for reaching an agreement on reducing emissions and supporting developing nations in dealing with the costly effects of climate change. The United States' announcement of a $100 billion fund to assist poorer countries in adapting to climate change and addressing issues like crop failure and water scarcity helped break a stalemate in the negotiations involving 193 nations. A group of influential leaders engaged in productive discussions overnight to move the climate talks forward, according to Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen. Despite concerns about potential setbacks, leaders came together for a gala dinner hosted by Denmark's Queen Margrethe at Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen to kick off the final push towards a deal. French President Nicolas Sarkozy stated that time is not on their side and they should stop pretending. He warned that a failure in Copenhagen would be a disaster for everyone. Police reported that 28 people were arrested in connection with a Greenpeace protest near the palace, with three managing to slip past security. Activists arrived before U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and walked up the red carpet with signs urging leaders to take action. U.S. President Barack Obama is set to arrive on Friday and is likely to be asked to commit to more significant reductions in emissions. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso expressed his anticipation for a significant announcement from President Obama during the upcoming climate summit. He emphasized that Obama's visit is not just to repeat what is already in the draft legislation, particularly the climate bill awaiting approval from the U.S. Senate. Barroso mentioned Obama's planned meeting with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao during the summit, indicating progress in discussions between the United States and China on key issues, such as monitoring emissions reductions. Despite this progress, officials could not confirm whether a deal would be reached once Obama arrives at the summit. China has not agreed to these requirements. The United States has made a promising commitment to support a $100 billion annual fund for poor nations starting in 2020, which would exceed current aid flows to poor nations and align with the requests of African nations. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon described the U.S. pledge as very encouraging. However, a U.S. official indicated that President Obama is unlikely to provide more specific details about U.S. funding commitments. An agreement on financial matters is just one piece of the puzzle, which also involves saving rainforests, increasing carbon markets, and strengthening global carbon emission regulations. German Chancellor Angela Merkel stated that if everyone contributes a little more, progress can be made. The European Union is open to doing more, but is not willing to act independently. However, any agreement must be unanimously approved. Some small island nations and African countries, which are most at risk from climate change, have stated they will not support a weak agreement. Prime Minister Apisai Ielemia of Tuvalu emphasized the importance of the ongoing talks in Bali, Indonesia, stating that they are crucial for the survival of his nation. The draft negotiations aim to achieve goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions worldwide by 2050 and requiring developed countries to cut their emissions by up to 40 percent by 2020. Kim Carstensen, leader of the WWF environmental group, noted progress in reaching a compromise, especially due to the U.S. offering financial support. Earlier, there was little hope for a strong U.N. climate agreement as China and the U.S. were blamed for the deadlock. Ministers and leaders emphasized the need for renewed urgency, stressing that the success of Copenhagen is crucial. China's climate change ambassador Yu Qingtai stated that Copenhagen cannot afford to fail. | 1 |
Researchers have found that Australia's mining boom is contributing to a significant rise in HIV infections among affluent heterosexual miners and businessmen who travel to Asia for holidays. According to a recent national report on HIV-AIDS, rates of HIV infections in Australia have gone up by nearly 50 percent in the last eight years. The report, released by the National Centre in HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research, stated that in 2007 alone, Australia had 27,331 cases of HIV infection and 10,230 cases of AIDS. While the majority of new infections are still among homosexual men, there is a growing number of infections among heterosexual men in the mining-rich states of Western Australia and Queensland. Many miners work fly-in, fly-out shifts where they work for several weeks straight followed by a few weeks off. Some miners are using their time off to visit Asia, according to researchers. Don Baxter, executive director of the Australian Federation of AIDS, stated that a notable number of new infections are among heterosexual men from wealthy resource states who are vacationing in Asia and engaging in unprotected sex. Baxter noted that men from Western Australia are likely to visit Southeast Asian countries, while those from Queensland visit Papua New Guinea, which is at risk of an HIV-AIDS epidemic. Baxter also mentioned that there has been a 68 percent increase in HIV infections among heterosexual males in Western Australia over the past three years, with the number of infected heterosexual men similar to that of gay men in the region in 2007. Baxter announced that the government of Western Australia and the AIDS council were collaborating with mining companies to introduce safe sex education programs for miners. Health officials reported on Wednesday that a group of men in Cairns, Queensland, had contracted HIV after having unprotected sex with women in Papua New Guinea. Six businessmen, aged 47 to 66, tested positive for HIV in the past 10 months. Dr. Darren Russell, director of the Cairns Sexual Health Service, warned that this small cluster could be the start of a larger outbreak due to the increasing HIV epidemic in Papua New Guinea. Australia's AIDS federation has urged the government to boost funding for AIDS prevention programs in order to curb the increasing number of infections. According to Baxter, New South Wales, which has a large homosexual population in Sydney, has seen minimal changes in infection rates over the past ten years due to continued funding for safe sex programs. In contrast, states that have cut funding have witnessed significant spikes in infection rates, such as Victoria with a 131 percent increase and Queensland with a 55 percent rise. Baxter emphasized the importance of investing in these programs as a way to at least stabilize HIV infection rates. | 1 |
Barack Obama is embarking on his first trip to Asia as president this week, acknowledging the region's economic and diplomatic significance to the United States amidst a myriad of domestic issues. The trip will include attendance at an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in Singapore, but the main focus will be on China, with whom the U.S. shares a complex relationship as the largest holder of U.S. foreign debt and second-largest trading partner. Obama views China as both a crucial partner and competitor, emphasizing the importance of maintaining friendly competition within established international rules to ensure responsible behavior globally. Ben Rhodes, a deputy national security adviser, stated that America recognizes the importance of Asia in the 21st century and plans to engage in a comprehensive way to address various critical issues for prosperity and security. North Korea, Iran, the global economy and trade, climate change, energy, human rights, Afghanistan, and Pakistan will receive significant attention. Obama will also discuss U.S. engagement with Asia during his visit to Tokyo, and in China, he will meet with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao. The purpose of the trip is to emphasize the United States' strong involvement with Asia, following a period of focusing on the threat of Islamic extremism in the region. However, President Obama's attention is currently occupied by domestic concerns such as healthcare reform, unemployment, and decisions regarding troop deployments in Afghanistan, which may hinder progress on climate change and trade issues during his Asian visit. Opposition from various groups in the U.S., including businesses and labor unions, makes it unlikely for Obama to aggressively pursue agreements like a free trade deal with South Korea. Despite this, there are indications that the administration will eventually return to trade negotiations once these domestic issues are addressed. "He expressed uncertainty about whether Asian leaders hold that belief. With Obama's extremely high approval ratings in the countries he is traveling to, tangible outcomes might not be the main focus. Observers and government officials highlight that Obama has been in power for less than a year, and view this trip as primarily setting the stage for future collaboration. "President Obama is widely admired in all the nations he is visiting." Jeffrey Bader, senior director for East Asian affairs at the National Security Council, stated that he has not viewed the most recent polls but he found the numbers he has seen to be impressive. He emphasized the importance of having someone with high levels of respect, affection, and admiration, as their message is more likely to resonate compared to someone with a low approval rating. | 1 |
In Atlantic, Iowa, Democratic Sen. Barack Obama defended his foreign policy credentials, accusing Sen. Hillary Clinton and other competitors of presenting traditional Washington practices as experience. Despite facing criticism for his lack of experience, Obama is seen as offering fresh ideas in a new CBS poll. Clinton, on the other hand, is favored for her perceived experience, giving her a 20-point lead. Obama has been criticized by Clinton for his willingness to engage with hostile nations, advocating strikes against al Qaeda in Pakistan, and opposing the use of nuclear weapons in such attacks. Obama argued that Clinton and other candidates only appear experienced because they are following the expected norms of a typical candidate. During a five-day tour of Iowa, Obama criticized not only Senator Clinton but also many of his opponents for prioritizing the recitation of conventional wisdom in Washington as a mark of experience. He argued that this approach to foreign policy was responsible for the Iraq war and needed to be changed. In response, the Clinton campaign defended her record, stating that she has always worked for change and has the strength and experience to make it happen in 2009. Obama emphasized the need for a new administration to break away from traditional thinking that fosters a climate of fear. He criticized the current administration for obscuring the truth, diverting attention, and exploiting the fears of the American people in foreign policy. Obama highlighted his commitment to not using nuclear weapons in attacks on al Qaeda in Pakistan, while Clinton has stressed the importance of nuclear deterrence in maintaining peace. Obama stated that numerous military experts have reassured him that nuclear weapons would not be utilized in a possible attack on a terrorist group in Pakistan. He emphasized that in such a scenario, conventional weapons would be used instead of nuclear weapons. Obama received enthusiastic support from hundreds of supporters in Council Bluffs for this stance, and he mentioned that it is not naive to hold this position. Despite being labeled as inexperienced, Obama received standing ovations in Council Bluffs and Atlantic for his message of change. He stated that when individuals mention experience, they are essentially asking about one's ability to make sound decisions. Even though Donald Rumsfeld and Dick Cheney have extensive experience, their lack of good judgment in foreign policy is evident. He believes that his strength lies in possessing good judgment. | 1 |
Their initial confrontation in Cleveland was not characterized by any of those words. Trump, who had been criticized by Republicans for being too aggressive in the previous debate, arrived in a more controlled manner in an attempt to revive his struggling campaign. However, his toned-down performance did not seem to have the potential to change the course of a race that has remained unaffected by significant global events. Here are six key points from the last presidential debate of 2020. They actually had a debate! Following the chaotic first debate, the debate commission decided to implement a mute feature for the opening statements of both candidates in each segment, which proved to be effective. Trump refrained from interrupting as much as he usually does, and even held back from discussing Hunter Biden's military exit. He also complimented the debate moderator, Kristen Welker, for maintaining control over the event. With the lack of cross-talk, viewers were able to clearly see the differences between the candidates on various issues such as the pandemic, climate change, systemic racism, economic recovery, federal spending, and health care. Trump's advisors believe that he needs the election to be a clear choice between himself and Biden. However, the contrasts between the two candidates only became apparent in the final debate, as Trump had bulldozed through the first debate and his contraction of the coronavirus led to the cancellation of the second. With Trump trailing in the polls and over 48 million Americans already voting, he still lacked a convincing response to COVID-19. In contrast, Biden, who wore a mask onstage, began his closing argument right from the beginning. The coronavirus pandemic has claimed the lives of more than 220,000 people in the United States. Biden expressed his belief that someone responsible for a large number of deaths should not continue to serve as president of the United States. This sentiment was also shared by Sen. Kamala Harris during the vice presidential debate, to which Trump and Vice President Mike Pence did not have satisfactory responses. Trump mentioned that models had predicted up to 2.2 million deaths if no action was taken, highlighting that it is a global pandemic and mortality rates have decreased. Trump optimistically stated that the situation is improving and the pandemic is fading away. Hospitalizations and cases are increasing. Trump referenced his own hospitalization with the virus during the first debate, leading to the cancellation of the second debate. He stated that he learned a lot from his experience. However, he also criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease specialist, leading up to the debate. Biden expressed his determination to end the virus by stating, "I will make sure we have a plan." Despite initial concerns that Trump was untouchable, Biden has emerged as the front-runner with strong approval ratings. Throughout the race, Biden has brushed off accusations of being a radical socialist with a nonchalant attitude, asking, "Do I look like a radical socialist?" At the first debate, he confidently stated, "I am the party." During the recent Thursday event, Trump made numerous attempts to connect Biden with Harris' stance on healthcare during the primaries and accused him of being influenced by "AOC plus three," which refers to Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and other progressive House members. Trump also tried to link Biden with Sen. Bernie Sanders on healthcare. In response, Biden used his "Come on, man!" approach and called Trump a confused individual who believes he is running against someone else. He is competing against Joe Biden in the election. The Democratic candidate spoke directly to the audience, encouraging them to trust their own perceptions after serving as vice president for eight years. He emphasized that the viewers are familiar with both candidates and their characters. Biden is confident in himself and trusts that voters will see through Trump's attacks on his character and policies, a strategy that has been successful thus far. Trump finally delivered the punch that many Republicans had been anticipating, criticizing Biden for his long political career without significant accomplishments. Trump questioned why Biden had not achieved promised changes during his nearly half-century in Washington, labeling him as "all talk, no action." Biden struggled to respond effectively to Trump's repeated attacks on his record of public service. He even went so far as to distance himself from President Barack Obama due to their failure to pass an immigration overhaul, stating that they made a mistake and took too long to get it right. He emphasized that he will be the president of the United States, not the vice president. A Republican strategist noted that the criticism of not taking action on immigration was strong, especially after a disastrous first debate where Trump showed he could stand next to Biden and make his case. However, Trump has not consistently pursued this argument, and his image as an outsider has weakened now that he is a politician and an incumbent with unfulfilled promises. Trump criticized Biden by saying he ran for president because of him, but also got caught up in discussing obscure topics during the debate. Trump assumed that viewers were as familiar with certain internet controversies as he was, making references that likely went over most people's heads. These references included indirect jabs at the governor of Michigan's husband, criticism of the Obama administration for selling pillows and sheets to Ukraine, and attacks on the Biden family's business dealings without providing much context. Trump's comments, such as mentioning a submarine port, may have confused viewers. It seemed that Biden did not respond to Trump's accusations, as Trump continued to make unsubstantiated claims, particularly about Hunter Biden. Trump mentioned the release of new emails that he believed made the situation even worse. However, the discussion concluded without any significant resolution or impactful exchange. It served as a reminder of the contrast between running against Biden compared to Hillary Clinton. Trump benefited from years of negative campaigns against Clinton, but that is not the case with Biden. According to Democratic strategist Meredith Kelly, Trump focused on right-wing theories to appeal to his base without trying to persuade others. Despite this, Trump and Biden had meaningful disagreements, particularly regarding the extent to which the economy and schools should be closed to control the virus. Trump strongly pushed for reopening as soon as possible, while Biden insisted that this should only occur when it is truly safe. Trump referenced his own experience being hospitalized and recovering from the virus as evidence that we should be learning to live with it. Biden expressed disbelief at this notion, saying "Come on." "We are dying because of it." Trump criticized Biden for primarily campaigning from home this spring and summer, comparing it to being locked in a basement. He made fun of the Plexiglas dividers in restaurants, questioning the idea of diners being surrounded by plastic. Trump emphasized the importance of keeping the nation open, while Biden urged prioritizing public health to prevent a "dark winter" ahead. The candidates had a civil disagreement on healthcare and the environment. Biden stated that he plans to move the country away from the oil industry and eliminate federal subsidies, which Trump challenged by asking Texas, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma to remember his words. While progressives cheered Biden's declaration, Democrats in energy-heavy states like Oklahoma and New Mexico distanced themselves from the statement. A Republican strategist, Colin Reed, believed the debate ended in a draw. He stated that both candidates were well-prepared in terms of their demeanor and content. At this point, a successful push is a victory for Biden, while Trump needed to deliver a decisive blow. | 1 |
However, the diplomatic efforts of the Biden administration at a scaled-down UN General Assembly were overshadowed and complicated by the legacy of President Donald J. Trump. Biden worked to mend strained relations with France by speaking with President Emmanuel Macron and Secretary of State Blinken met with his French counterpart in New York. French officials criticized the Biden administration for failing to inform them about a strategic deal with Britain and Australia that affected a submarine contract. President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran implied that there was little difference between Biden and Trump in terms of foreign policy, referencing their slogans. Beijing's Global Times newspaper raised concerns about the longevity of Biden's promises on reducing global carbon emissions if a Republican administration were to take over, echoing similar sentiments from the Iranians regarding a potential return to the 2015 nuclear deal that Trump withdrew from abruptly. During a news conference that concluded a week of diplomacy, Blinken gave a favorable evaluation. He mentioned that US officials had engaged with representatives from over 60 countries and highlighted American leadership in addressing climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic. When questioned about recent criticisms of US foreign policy, such as the Afghanistan withdrawal, stalled nuclear negotiations with Iran, and diplomatic tensions in Paris, Blinken stated that he had not personally received such complaints during his time in New York. He noted that the feedback he had received in response to the president's recent speech and the direction the country is heading in was overwhelmingly positive and supportive of the United States. Blinken made these remarks before leaving a weeklong diplomatic gathering that had cautiously resumed in-person meetings after the pandemic necessitated a virtual UN event the previous year. Several foreign leaders, such as those from Russia, China, and Iran, chose not to attend this year's gathering. This resulted in a lack of the usual drama surrounding whether the US president would have an unexpected encounter with a foreign rival. President Biden only made a brief appearance before leaving a few hours after his speech on Tuesday. In his address, he highlighted how America's withdrawal from Afghanistan marked the end of 20 years of war following the September 11, 2001 attacks. He emphasized that the US was now entering a new era of collaborative diplomacy to address global challenges like climate change, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the rise of authoritarianism. The speech paid great tribute to global cooperation and stood in stark opposition to Trump's lack of diplomacy. However, some have criticized Biden for making policy decisions that resemble Trump's. French officials expressed surprise and frustration over the US submarine deal with Australia, likening it to Trump's unilateral and unpredictable actions. Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian expressed anger and disappointment over the decision. The tension between the US and France was somewhat alleviated by Thursday, following discussions between Biden and Macron, as well as Blinken and Le Drian. However, the French diplomat's comments indicated that the issue had not been completely resolved. Resolving the current crisis will be a gradual process that will demand action, according to Le Drian. The incident with France may have been seen as an isolated event, but it reminded some NATO allies of past grievances regarding Biden's decision to withdraw from Afghanistan without proper consultation or warning. Trump was known for catching allies off guard with sudden and independent actions. Blinken objected to claims that he ignored NATO officials' advice on Afghanistan, but officials from Germany, Britain, and other countries said their recommendations for a slower withdrawal were disregarded. Biden supporters dismiss these comparisons as exaggerated, but some acknowledge concerns about the possibility of Trump, or someone similar, undoing Biden's policies. Former National Security Council and Pentagon staffer Loren DeJonge Schulman argued it is unrealistic to assume continuity between Trump and Biden in terms of foreign relations and national security. However, Schulman recognized that other countries have legitimate doubts about the Biden administration's ability to maintain international commitments and strengthen alliances in the aftermath of the Trump presidency. DeJonge Schulman, an adjunct senior fellow at the Center for a New American Security, stated that trust cannot be the only factor in this situation. Not only have annoyed allies noticed similarities between Biden and Trump, but adversaries have also used this as a way to attack Biden. The Global Times, known for mirroring the Chinese Communist Party's views, has claimed that Biden's approach to China is very similar to Trump's, including maintaining trade tariffs that Democrats criticized but now see as a bargaining tool. Additionally, Iranian officials have expressed frustration that Biden has not removed the economic sanctions imposed by Trump after withdrawing from the nuclear deal. In the early days of Biden's presidency, some European allies advised the administration to lift certain restrictions in order to kickstart nuclear talks. However, Biden officials chose not to do so. Last month, Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused the current administration of being no different from the previous one in terms of their demands on the nuclear issue. Now, with a new hard-line government in Tehran and a pause in negotiations, Biden officials are warning Iran that time is running out for a mutual return to the nuclear agreement. Criticism of the Biden team's handling of foreign policy is increasing, especially following a US military drone strike in Kabul last month that resulted in the deaths of 10 civilians. Certain officials in the Biden administration have acknowledged the challenges faced in diplomacy due to the retirement of many experienced Foreign Service officers during the Trump administration. Senator Ted Cruz has obstructed the confirmation of numerous Biden nominees for senior State Department roles and ambassadorships. Biden is being compared to Trump in various areas, such as immigration, prompting questions about the differences between the two administrations. This information was reported by The New York Times. | 1 |
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A group of rapidly growing carbon emitters, which is crucial for a global agreement on climate change, is now open to discussing the future of the Kyoto Protocol in order to gain the support of the United States. The Kyoto Protocol currently requires about 40 wealthy nations to reduce emissions by 2008-12, but developing countries are pushing for a stricter second commitment period. Many developed countries oppose this demand and want to move away from Kyoto in order to include emerging markets like India and China. The upcoming meeting of the environment ministers from Brazil, South Africa, India and China - known as the BASIC nations - will focus on building trust with wealthy nations, according to the agenda obtained by Reuters. The question of how long the Kyoto Protocol will last will be a key topic of discussion. The meeting agenda for the upcoming event in South Africa on April 25-26 includes discussing the possibility of a shorter second commitment period focused on ensuring carbon markets. Another topic on the agenda is exploring potential alternatives to the Kyoto Protocol if no second commitment period is agreed upon. The lack of trust between wealthy and developing nations regarding the distribution of responsibilities in combating climate change has hindered progress in global negotiations. Officials are less optimistic about reaching a comprehensive agreement in Mexico in November. Therefore, the willingness of BASIC nations to compromise on the Kyoto Protocol could potentially facilitate progress in negotiations and bring the United States, which never ratified the protocol, on board. An Indian negotiator characterized the agenda as "realistic" and focused on exploring all possible options to achieve a favorable outcome for all parties. The BASIC meeting agenda also includes discussions on incorporating elements of the Copenhagen Accord, a political agreement negotiated last year with the United States, into the current negotiation process. The Copenhagen Accord aims to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and provide $100 billion in aid by 2020. The text also includes details about actions taken by many countries, including major greenhouse gas emitters, to reduce their emissions by 2020. The original purpose of the Copenhagen conference was to establish a global agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol. The upcoming meeting in South Africa will discuss the possibility of expanding the BASIC bloc of nations and utilizing groups like the G20 and Major Economies Forum for negotiations. Developing countries are pushing for ongoing negotiations on two fronts: creating a successor to Kyoto for 2013 and implementing long-term strategies to combat climate change globally. | 1 |
The European Union's unity, solidarity, and global reputation are in jeopardy due to various factors such as Greece's debt, Russia's involvement in Ukraine, Britain's efforts to redefine its relationship with the EU, and the issue of Mediterranean migration. Failing to address any of these challenges adequately would exacerbate the others, increasing the risks facing the overall "Project Europe". The immediate concern is Greece's potential default and the possibility of it leaving the euro currency, known as 'Grexit', which poses a significant threat to the idea of a closer union among European countries and peoples. According to a report by the European Policy Centre think-tank, a Grexit would have long-term consequences for the EU, setting a precedent and undermining the organization's purpose. While Greece only makes up a small portion of the euro zone's economic output and population, its recent state bankruptcy and reliance on bailouts totaling nearly 200 billion euros has had a significant impact on the EU's reputation. The aftermath of the Greek referendum has led to tensions in Brussels, with different parties pointing fingers and offering various explanations for the crisis. Despite the uncertainty surrounding Greece's future, it has already demonstrated that the idea of an unbreakable membership in the euro currency is flawed. With potential efforts to strengthen the remaining members of the euro zone, such as addressing design flaws in the monetary union, there may be challenges in gaining consensus, particularly from Germany. The Greek situation will serve as a reminder for markets in future economic downturns within the euro zone. Destabilizing Greece's economy could have severe consequences, including causing suffering and financial losses for European taxpayers. Additionally, it could worsen Europe's existing crises and destabilize the fragile southern Balkans. With tensions already high in the eastern Mediterranean due to various conflicts and disputes, a weakened Greece may seek assistance from Russia. This could lead to Greece vetoing EU sanctions against Moscow or offering access to naval facilities once used by the United States. Greece is also facing challenges with an influx of refugees from conflicts in the Middle East, who are seeking asylum in other EU countries. Imagining a scenario where a government expelled from the euro zone uses migrants to put pressure on EU countries is not difficult. The issue of "boat people" has caused division within the EU, with frontline countries like Italy criticizing their northern and eastern counterparts for not showing solidarity by refusing to share the burden of refugees. Britain has also declined to take in refugees. The failure to resolve Greece's debt crisis after five years has made the EU appear weak and divided to leaders like Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Brussels officials admit that the euro zone crisis has led to a return to national decision-making on certain policies and weakened Europe's "soft power" of supranational governance based on rules. The EU's position in global trade and climate change talks has been undermined, and there are concerns about the potential consequences of Britain's push to renegotiate its membership terms and hold a referendum by 2017. The EU faces the risk of losing a significant economy, financial center, and military power if Britain chooses to leave. While polls show support for staying in the EU, there is still apprehension in Brussels due to past inaccuracies in UK polls. Since winning, Cameron has faced challenges from Eurosceptic rebels in his Conservative party. A potential Greek economic crisis, whether in or out of the euro zone, could bolster arguments that the UK economy is linked to a failing system. Russia's historical animosity towards Britain, which is viewed in Moscow as the US' closest ally, could benefit from the UK leaving the EU. This could undermine efforts within the EU to address Russian actions in Ukraine and Georgia, as well as weaken ties between the UK and the EU, despite remaining in NATO. This could give Putin an advantage in negotiations with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who has been leading European efforts to support Ukraine. Rem Korteweg from the Centre for European Reform likens the interconnected crises to the four horsemen of the apocalypse mentioned in the Book of Revelation, symbolizing conquest, war, famine, and death as harbingers of a "day of judgment". In an essay, Korteweg expressed that EU leaders will struggle to control these crises, warning that without a unified European response, chaos, instability, and blame will persist within the EU. | 1 |
In a statement, Morrison announced that he had spoken to the leader of the opposition, Anthony Albanese, to congratulate him on his election victory and stated that he would be stepping down as the leader of his party. Albanese, who is a pragmatic leader with a working-class background, emphasized the importance of unity in the nation. Treasurer Josh Frydenberg acknowledged the challenging possibility of winning in Kooyong, while also facing the prospect of being voted out of parliament as one of the highest-ranking cabinet ministers ever. The Parliament consists of the House of Representatives, which has 151 seats. A majority of 76 seats is needed to form the government. With 55% of the vote counted, Labor had 72 seats, the coalition had 52, and independents and the Greens held 11, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corp. Another 16 seats were still undecided. The Senate has 76 seats, with 12 allocated to each of the six states and two each for two territories. In total, there are 40 Senate seats up for election: six from each state and the four territory seats. ECONOMY * The winner will face challenges ahead with escalating inflation, rising interest rates after 11 years, and projected budget deficits due to pandemic spending. However, unemployment is currently at its lowest in nearly 50 years and global prices for Australian commodities are soaring. CLIMATE * The main political parties face a difficult road ahead as voters demand action on climate change but are hesitant to bear the costs. In an election where cost of living is a key concern, retail power prices also play a role. Foreign policy unexpectedly became a prominent topic during the election as Morrison emphasized his national security expertise and criticized Labor's abilities, only to have his stance undermined by the Solomon Islands forming a security agreement with China. Morrison acknowledged his need to change his governing approach, admitting he had been too forceful, while Albanese has presented a different option rooted in his working-class background and practical approach. | 1 |
The head of the UN climate change department is urging governments to take significant steps towards creating a new treaty to combat global warming. Failure to do so could jeopardize ongoing negotiations. In Tianjin, negotiators are attempting to come to an agreement on what should come after the current phase of the Kyoto Protocol, which ends in 2012. Trust issues between wealthy and developing nations, concerns over transparency regarding emissions cuts, and dissatisfaction with the proposed cuts by wealthy nations have hindered progress. Failure to reach an agreement soon will leave less time to address greenhouse gas emissions and add to uncertainties for companies regarding future climate policies and carbon markets. Christiana Figueres, the Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, stressed the importance of finding common ground during the Tianjin talks. The negotiations taking place now are the final major discussions before the main climate conference in Cancun, Mexico at the end of November. Last year, negotiators from almost 200 countries were unable to reach an agreement on a new legally binding climate treaty. The Copenhagen meeting in 2009 resulted in disagreements between wealthy and developing nations, leading to a non-binding agreement that left many important issues unresolved. Governments are facing challenges in overcoming distrust and transforming a complex draft treaty into a legally binding document, possibly by the end of 2011. It is crucial for a concrete outcome to be reached in Cancun in order to restore confidence and commitment to the process, and to prevent multilateralism from being seen as an endless endeavor. Wendel Trio, the climate policy coordinator for Greenpeace, stated that recent severe weather events like devastating floods in Pakistan and severe drought in Russia are likely to be exacerbated by rising temperatures if countries do not significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Trio emphasized the need for countries to trust each other and called on developed nations to demonstrate their commitment to the pledges made in Copenhagen. At the Tianjin talks, Christina Figueres expressed hope that important details of a future climate pact, such as managing adaptation funds, green technology for poorer countries, and supporting carbon-absorbing forests, could be agreed upon. She believed that governments may agree on the creation of a climate fund to help poorer nations transition to greener economies, but acknowledged that agreeing on funding sources could take a longer period of time. Even if progress is made in negotiations, current government pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions will not be sufficient to prevent the world from reaching dangerous levels of global warming, defined as a 2-degree Celsius rise above pre-industrial temperatures, according to Figueres. She emphasized that these pledges are not enough to ensure even a 2-degree rise in temperature, which may not be enough to protect the most vulnerable countries. Despite this, governments should prioritize securing formal commitments to the proposed emissions cuts, recognizing that this is a necessary but inadequate first step in addressing climate change. | 1 |
Several women disrupted Philip Hammond's speech at an annual banquet in London's Mansion House by shouting slogans through loudspeakers. Video footage showed Foreign Office minister Mark Field physically removing one of the women from the room by grabbing her by the back of her neck. Field later apologized for his actions, but Prime Minister Theresa May's spokeswoman announced that he has been suspended from his duties pending an investigation. Field explained that his response was driven by security concerns. "In the current situation, I believed it was necessary to take decisive action to eliminate the threat to the safety of those in attendance," he stated. His office did not respond to a Reuters request for comment. Tory MP Mark Field was seen grabbing a Greenpeace protester who disrupted a speech by Philip Hammond in London. The Labour Party's spokeswoman for women and equalities, Dawn Butler, called for Field to be suspended or fired, describing the incident as "horrific." Greenpeace, the environmental campaign group, stated that they had organized the protest in the financial district of London, accusing the finance industry of financing climate change and criticizing the finance ministry for attempting to weaken government efforts to address it. Rebecca Newsom, Head of Politics at Greenpeace UK, criticized Field's reaction to the demonstrator, stating that she sees no justification for the violent behavior displayed. The City of London Corporation is re-evaluating its security procedures following the incident at Mansion House on Thursday night, with a spokesman stating that they are investigating the breach and will review arrangements for future events. | 1 |
Nobel Peace Prize winner Al Gore is urging governments to speed up the creation of a new treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by two years, suggesting that waiting until the Kyoto pact expires in 2012 is too late. Gore made these comments upon arriving in Oslo to collect his Nobel prize, which he shares with the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for their efforts to raise awareness and advance the science of climate change. Gore plans to emphasize the importance of an early treaty both during his acceptance speech in Norway and at the UN climate conference in Bali. The United States rejected the 1997 Kyoto protocol, a main UN climate pact that required 36 nations to reduce emissions. The US argued that the agreement would be too costly and unfairly excluded developing countries from emission cuts. Former Vice President Al Gore expressed disappointment in the US's decision, stating that the country should be leading the charge against climate change. Despite this setback, Gore noted that there were positive signs within the US, such as cities and states adopting Kyoto provisions and 150 business leaders calling for carbon emission reductions. Gore emphasized the importance of individual choices for the environment, such as taking public transportation like the train. In 2006, Gore was ridiculed for taking a limousine to the Cannes film festival where his Oscar-winning film "An Inconvenient Truth" was being shown. The film emphasizes the need for immediate action to combat climate change. | 1 |
Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Danny Russel stated to Reuters that similar to adjusting the dosage of medicine, sanctions can be increased when they are not achieving the desired effects. Russel mentioned the possibility of new sanctions being imposed by the UN Security Council, the United States, or a coalition of countries from the European Union and Southeast Asia. North Korea's recent nuclear test and rocket launch led to expanded UN sanctions in an effort to cut off funding for their nuclear weapons program. There are concerns that North Korea may conduct another nuclear test soon, possibly before a ruling party congress in May, after a recent missile test failure. It is estimated that up to 150,000 North Korean workers are employed abroad, primarily in China and Russia, contributing as much as $900 million annually. North Koreans are known to work overseas in various industries, including restaurants, construction, and as doctors. The success of current or potential new sanctions is heavily reliant on China fully enforcing them, as China is North Korea's neighbor, closest ally, and biggest trading partner, according to US officials and analysts. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying emphasized the importance of all parties avoiding actions or statements that could escalate tensions, and instead remaining calm and showing restraint to resume talks. When asked about potential support for tougher sanctions in the event of another nuclear test, Hua Chunying declined to speculate. If North Korea were to conduct a fifth nuclear test, the United States, South Korea, and Japan could also take unspecified defensive actions, as explained by Russel. He mentioned that as the threat increases, our defensive capabilities should also adapt. He emphasized the possibility of diplomatic negotiations for North Korea to curb its nuclear program. South Korean Unification Ministry spokesman Jeong Joon-hee suggested focusing more on sanctions rather than dialogue, given North Korea's talk of further provocation. Russel discussed potential responses to a fifth nuclear test by North Korea, noting that sanctions have not effectively deterred them since their first nuclear test in 2006. He clarified that no decisions have been made yet regarding a response to an event that has not happened. US General Vincent Brooks, who President Barack Obama has selected to lead American forces in South Korea, stated on Tuesday that China is frustrated with North Korea's actions, such as its nuclear advancements, but is hesitant to use pressure that could jeopardize Kim Jong Un's regime. Brooks also noted that Kim Jong Un seems to be more bold and reckless than his father, Kim Jong Il, in disregarding international concerns and progressing the North's nuclear program. Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Russel mentioned that it will take time to assess the effectiveness of the latest sanctions, but China has shifted towards applying pressure on North Korea after exhausting other methods of persuasion. Russel also suggested that a more serious and sustained effort to pressure North Korea has not been attempted before. The level of dependence of the North Korean economy on China and its access to China is so significant that any change in China's stance could bring about a new dynamic. However, Frank Jannuzi, a former Senate Foreign Relations Committee staffer for East Asia and the Pacific, expressed doubt that China was truly willing to exert substantial pressure on North Korea. He pointed out that while China has economic leverage, they are hesitant to fully utilize it due to concerns about potential negative consequences such as conflict, refugee crises, or turmoil. | 1 |
Sweden criticized the outcome of the Copenhagen climate change summit, calling it a "disaster" and a "great failure." European Union environment ministers planned to meet to figure out how to salvage the process after failing to achieve their goals, including a 20-percent cut in carbon emissions. Swedish Environment Minister Andreas Carlgren, who will lead the discussions as Sweden holds the EU presidency, emphasized the need to learn from the summit's shortcomings and explore new approaches moving forward. The U.N.-led conference concluded after two weeks with a non-legally binding agreement to limit global warming to a maximum of 2 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels. However, the conference did not outline a clear plan on how to achieve this goal. Despite extensive preparation and international diplomacy efforts, the main issue stemmed from the inability of the United States and China, the world's two largest emitters, to agree on specific targets. The European Union entered the talks with a unified stance and a financial plan to support emissions reductions in developing countries, pledging around 7 billion euros over the next three years. Unfortunately, these objectives were overshadowed as the talks failed to produce the anticipated breakthrough agreement. Carlgren noted that Europe remained steadfast in its goals, but the lack of cooperation from other countries, particularly the United States and China, hindered progress. Britain accused China and a few other countries of obstructing a legally binding treaty at Copenhagen, continuing a blame game that has been ongoing since the talks concluded. Prime Minister Gordon Brown criticized the summit as being flawed or chaotic, calling for urgent reform to work towards a legal treaty when discussions resume in Germany next June. However, Danish Climate Minister Connie Hedegaard, who resigned as president of the Copenhagen talks amid criticism from African nations, emphasized the need to remain optimistic about addressing climate change. She stated that it was important to build on the progress made at the summit and turn it into tangible results, noting that failure would have been not achieving anything at all. We were able to accomplish something significant - a initial milestone. This marked the first occasion where all countries, including major polluters, participated in the process. | 1 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of regional and global cooperation in addressing climate change and food security during an international symposium in Dhaka. The symposium concluded with the signing of the Dhaka Symposium Declaration. Ahmed highlighted the need for neighboring countries to work together to reduce the impact of natural disasters and adapt to changes caused by climate change. The visiting president of Iceland, Ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, also stressed the global perspective of climate change and called for international dialogue on its security implications. The symposium was organized jointly by Dhaka University, Ohio State University, the World Meteorological Organization, UNESCAP, and the Food and Agriculture Organization. The chief adviser emphasized in his closing address that Bangladesh's susceptibility to climate change is due to its geographical location, being a low-lying mega-delta with three major river systems and heavy rainfall leading to annual floods. He called on the international community, especially high greenhouse gas emitters, to collaborate in addressing the impacts of climate change to help the most affected countries maintain food security. The main challenge for Bangladesh, he noted, is lifting 50 million people out of poverty while ensuring access to food, shelter, clean water, and healthcare. He also highlighted the consecutive floods and Cyclone Sidr from the previous year, which posed threats to the country's agricultural sector and food supply. The chief adviser highlighted the challenge faced by Bangladesh, as global warming has already impacted food production, leading to increased food deficits over the past two decades. He also noted that the melting of Himalayan glaciers and sediment accumulation in rivers, along with poor drainage, exacerbate the situation. Iceland's president emphasized the need for every state to participate in a global discussion on the security implications of climate change. He suggested collaborative efforts beyond South Asia involving countries dependent on the Himalayan region for water, as experts predict the glaciers in the area may disappear within the next 40-70 years. Grimsson pointed out that Iceland is also experiencing severe effects of climate change, given that it is home to Europe's largest glaciers. He mentioned that his country could be seen as a model for addressing climate change by completely transforming energy systems. Iceland has successfully shifted from relying on fossil fuels to becoming a global leader in clean energy production and consumption. Grimsson emphasized the importance of cooperation between scientific communities, governments, businesses, and civic associations to achieve significant success. He called for a collaborative effort between experts and citizens to address climate change. The key recommendations from the Dhaka Symposium Declaration include creating a Climate Change and Food Security Network in South Asia, enhancing regional policies, and exploring innovative financial measures for adaptation strategies. The closing ceremony took place at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel on Saturday, with Dhaka University vice chancellor SMA Faiz presiding over the event. Other speakers included FAO's Asia and the Pacific regional representative Changchui He, FAO country representative Ad Spijkers, commerce adviser Hossain Zillur Rahman, and the chief adviser's special assistant for environment and forests Raja Devashish Roy. | 1 |
Koichi Mizushima, a spokesperson for the Japan Foreign Ministry, briefed journalists on Saturday regarding the minister's visit to Bangladesh. The purpose of the visit was to strengthen cooperation with Bangladesh, a country that has always been friendly towards Japan. Kishida is the first foreign minister to visit Dhaka since the controversial Jan 5 parliamentary election, which was boycotted by the opposition BNP and its allies. The visit was seen as a good opportunity to enhance bilateral relations, especially since a new government had been formed. The focus of the cooperation should be on a comprehensive partnership, according to Mizushima. During bilateral talks with his Bangladeshi counterpart, AH Mahmood Ali, Kishida emphasized the importance of this partnership. The spokesperson also mentioned Japan's concern during the unrest leading up to the Jan 5 elections, as it was causing worry among Japanese investors. The relationship between the two countries will cover various aspects, not just political ones, with an emphasis on economic ties and people-to-people connections. Japanese investment in Bangladesh has been growing rapidly, with the number of Japanese companies operating in Bangladesh nearly tripling in the last seven years. Japan has been a significant development partner for Bangladesh, providing assistance in various forms such as grants, aid, technical help, and soft loans. Currently, the two countries are in talks for the 35th package of soft loans, with Japan committing to a loan of 120 billion Yen for five projects. Both countries are also considering an Economic Partnership Agreement to further strengthen their economic ties. The two foreign ministers discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest and agreed to work on visa exemptions for diplomatic and official passport holders, as well as other agreements for closer cooperation. Japan also expressed interest in financing key infrastructure projects in Bangladesh and contributing to regional connectivity and integration. The ministers also discussed cooperation under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and Japan's interest in learning from Bangladesh's experience in disaster management. Japan also proposed the establishment of a Peace-building Center in Bangladesh, which was positively received by the Bangladesh foreign ministry. | 1 |
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