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Speaking at a pre-election town hall event on RTL television on Sunday, Merkel urged German carmakers, all of which were found to have used tactics to deceive nitrogen emissions tests, to work on rebuilding public trust in diesel. Merkel emphasized the importance of diesel in achieving climate protection goals, despite the fact that diesel cars emit less carbon dioxide but more nitrogen dioxide, which can lead to respiratory issues in high concentrations. She acknowledged the differences in legal systems between Germany and the US as a reason for the varying compensation received by car owners affected by the scandal. Merkel stressed the need for German carmakers to adequately compensate owners whose vehicles lost value due to the scandal to avoid potential damage to the reputation of the German car industry. The auto sector's future in Germany, which is the country's largest exporter and provides 800,000 jobs, has become a major topic in the upcoming election. Politicians are pointing fingers at executives and each other for the sector's damaged reputation following Volkswagen's admission of cheating on US emissions tests nearly two years ago. | 1 |
Indonesia President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono emphasized the importance of US leadership on climate change during a meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Jakarta on Thursday. Clinton was visiting to strengthen US relations with Southeast Asia and the Muslim world before traveling to South Korea to address the North's military threat. The two leaders discussed economic cooperation, Palestine, and efforts to reach a new global agreement on climate change. Yudhoyono stressed that achieving a global consensus on climate change would require US leadership. During a TV interview on a local youth music show, Clinton confirmed her attendance at a conference in Cairo on March 2 to discuss rebuilding Gaza. She mentioned that President Obama and herself have been working to re-engage the United States in helping the Middle East. The damage in Gaza after Israel's offensive is estimated to be nearly $2 billion. Clinton's visit to Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, reflects President Obama's efforts to improve U.S. relations with the Muslim world, especially in light of the unpopularity of some of former President George W. Bush's policies in the region. While most Indonesians practice a moderate form of Islam, there are also radical elements who have protested against Clinton's visit. Indonesia is home to the headquarters of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and boasts the largest economy in Southeast Asia. Discussions during Clinton's visit have also touched upon the financial crisis, with Indonesian Foreign Minister Hassan Wirajuda mentioning talks about potential U.S. assistance through a currency swap agreement and contingency funding to support the region's leading economy. Indonesia is already looking to expand existing currency swap arrangements with Japan, China, and South Korea. President Yudhoyono, who is running for reelection, is eager to highlight Indonesia's stability following its transition from autocracy under former President Suharto to a thriving democracy. Clinton, like previous officials from the Bush Administration, has pointed to Indonesia as an example of how modernity and Islam can coexist, especially since it is where Obama spent part of his childhood. Clinton received applause during her appearance on the "Dahsyat" music show when she mentioned her appreciation for classical music as well as her love for the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Prior to traveling to South Korea, she was scheduled to visit a USAID sanitation project in Jakarta. North Korea has been threatening to attack South Korea, with recent statements indicating their readiness for war. It is believed that Pyongyang is preparing to launch its longest-range missile in an attempt to gain the attention of the new US administration and pressure Seoul to be more lenient. Clinton has expressed that such a missile launch would not be beneficial for improving relations. Following her visit to South Korea, Clinton will travel to China, which will be the final destination on her Asian tour that also encompassed Japan. This trip marks her first international visit since assuming her position in office. | 1 |
President Barack Obama emphasized the importance of a strong government commitment to scientific research in response to the flu virus outbreak that has resulted in a US public health emergency. In a speech to the National Academy of Sciences, Obama called for allocating 3 percent of gross domestic product to scientific research, pointing out that the ability to effectively address public health challenges relies heavily on the efforts of the scientific and medical community. Obama stressed the need for the nation to prioritize science and research to prevent falling behind in addressing such crises. Obama reassured the public that the cases of swine flu in the US were not a cause for panic, but the government was closely monitoring the situation. The administration deemed the declaration of a public health emergency as a precautionary measure. The flu has resulted in 149 deaths in Mexico and has spread to North America and Europe. While no deaths have occurred outside of Mexico, concerns about a potential pandemic have been raised. Obama cited the space race between the US and the Soviet Union in the 1950s and 1960s as an example of the importance of investing in research, noting that science spending as a percentage of GDP has declined since then. Obama stated that by aiming to spend more than 3 percent of GDP on science, the United States will not only reach but surpass the levels seen during the peak of the space race. This goal includes both public and private funding, with the US currently spending 2.66 percent of GDP on research and development. Part of the increased spending is from the economic stimulus package signed by Obama in February, and in his proposed fiscal 2010 budget, he is seeking to make tax credits for business investment in research and development permanent. The White House is highlighting Obama's achievements as he approaches the 100-day mark of his presidency, including his proposals to address global climate change. Obama described breaking dependence on fossil fuels as the current generation's challenge. The administration has also started a two-day meeting of major world economies on climate change, with a goal to reduce US emissions by around 15 percent by 2020 through a cap-and-trade system. This proposal is a key component of a bill being considered in Congress. Republicans have been critical of the cap-and-trade system, labeling it as an indirect energy tax. Additionally, some moderate Democrats share concerns about the plan's potential negative effects on jobs and the economy. | 1 |
Chinese President Hu Jintao praised increased collaboration with Japan upon his arrival on Tuesday for a state visit aimed at building trust between the two countries despite disagreements over energy resources and security issues. Hu was welcomed in Tokyo by Japanese officials and Chinese supporters, while downtown, a large police presence was deployed in anticipation of protests by right-wing activists wary of China. Despite past conflicts over Japan's wartime actions, China is presenting itself as a friendly neighbor, with Hu emphasizing positive objectives for his five-day visit, including diplomatic discussions, agreements, and cultural exchanges such as table tennis and the potential loan of pandas. The visit, only the second of its kind from China to Japan, comes at a time when China is working to ease global concerns over unrest in Tibet, which could impact the image of Beijing's upcoming Olympic Games. Hu emphasized the importance of strong ties between China and Japan for the prosperity of both countries, expressing his hope for continued friendship between the two nations. He highlighted the benefits of cooperation between the two countries and the positive impact it has had on their growth and development. Hu also referred to the Beijing Games as not only Asia's Olympics, but also the Olympics of the world. The relationship between Asia's two largest economies, China and Japan, is crucial. China overtook the United States as Japan's top trading partner, with a trade value of $236.6 billion in 2007, showing a 12 percent increase from 2006. While China's rapid growth presents opportunities, Japan is concerned about Beijing's expanding influence in diplomacy and military capabilities, especially regarding energy resources, military strength, and the safety of Chinese exports. Both countries need to make further efforts to improve their relationship, as stated by a commentator in China's People's Daily. The highlight of President Hu's visit is expected to be a summit with Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda, where they aim to present a joint plan for managing their relationship in the future. It was uncertain whether the declarations of friendship would help resolve disagreements or just cover them with pleasant words. Reports from Japanese media indicated that sensitive topics in the agreement, such as Taiwan, human rights, and Japan's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council, were still being discussed. The two countries are also in dispute over gas reserves in the East China Sea, and a recent incident involving pesticide-contaminated dumplings has highlighted Japanese concerns about China's growing influence. Both sides had hoped for progress on the gas issue before Hu's visit, but a quick resolution appears unlikely. Japan is also seeking more transparency regarding China's increasing defense spending, which reached 418 billion yuan ($60 billion) in 2008, a 17.6 percent increase from the previous year and surpassing Japan's defense budget. Foreign critics claim that China's actual military budget is significantly higher. Tokyo is seeking Chinese support for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a matter that sparked anti-Japanese demonstrations in China in 2005 due to lingering resentment over Japan's brutal occupation from 1931 to 1945. A Hong Kong newspaper controlled by mainland China, the Ta Kung Pao, suggested that Hu was unlikely to meet Japanese expectations. The paper mentioned sensitive issues like the gas dispute and the Security Council matter that may be challenging to resolve during the visit. It stated that while the timing might not be right for a resolution, some general agreements could potentially be reached. China has urged Japan to clarify its position on Taiwan, which Beijing believes should reunite with the mainland. Japan has stated its support for a unified China that includes Taiwan, a former Japanese colony with strong ties to Japan. Despite their differences, both countries are focused on promoting positive relations and will release a joint document on combating climate change, a priority for Japan as the host of the upcoming G8 summit. Chinese President Hu Jintao will address university students in Tokyo, potentially engage in a game of table tennis with Japanese Prime Minister Fukuda, and may also offer Japan a panda as a replacement for one that recently passed away in a Tokyo zoo. | 1 |
Kofi Annan, the former United Nations Secretary-General, expressed optimism that a climate change agreement could be reached with the support of the US administration under Barack Obama. He emphasized the urgency of taking action to prevent extreme weather events that will worsen with global warming. Annan highlighted the importance of addressing greenhouse gas emissions to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels and food shortages. He hoped that discussions at the Global Humanitarian Forum would pave the way for a successful agreement in Copenhagen in December. Annan expressed optimism that the new president and administration in the United States are serious about addressing climate change, which is crucial as the US is the largest emitter of greenhouse gases. He believes this commitment bodes well for the upcoming meeting in Copenhagen, where over 190 countries will work towards a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. Additionally, Annan noted that economic stimulus efforts around the world have led to increased investment in low-carbon energy and alternative technologies, which could create jobs and support sustainable projects. However, climate experts have cautioned that current pledges by industrialised nations to reduce emissions by 2020 are insufficient to prevent dangerous climate change. The emissions reductions pledged by developed countries ahead of the December meeting are currently estimated to be between 10 and 14 percent lower than 1990 levels, as calculated by Reuters. The UN Climate Panel recommends that reductions should be in the range of 25-40 percent below 1990 levels in order to prevent the most severe consequences of climate change. | 1 |
A VIP Biman Bangladesh flight departed from Dhaka at 12:10pm on Tuesday with the prime minister and her delegation on board. The flight is expected to land in London on Tuesday night according to Bangladesh time. Hasina will have a one-day stopover in London to visit family members, including her niece Tulip Siddiq who was re-elected as an MP in the British elections on June 8. The prime minister is set to arrive in Stockholm on Wednesday night local time, as confirmed by her Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim. The Prime Minister of Sweden has extended an invitation to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh for a visit, as announced by Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali during a press briefing on Sunday. This visit is expected to strengthen and broaden the cooperation between the two countries and improve Bangladesh's reputation in Europe. Additionally, the signing of two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) regarding the Sweden-Bangladesh Business Council and Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industries is anticipated. A joint statement will be released following the visit, and a 47-member business delegation will accompany the prime minister. While in Sweden on June 15 and 16, she will have a bilateral meeting with her counterpart. Additionally, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with the deputy prime minister, acting speaker, and minister for justice and migration. She will also meet with the chief executives of several Swedish companies. Sweden was among the first European countries to support Bangladesh in 1971, and February 4, 2017 marked the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Bangladesh sends $5 billion worth of garments to Sweden annually, particularly to the popular brand H&M. The foreign minister stated that this visit would enhance bilateral cooperation, attract investment, and strengthen connections in various areas such as migration, climate change, UN peacekeeping, and counter-terrorism. All of Bangladesh's products enter Sweden duty-free. The prime minister is scheduled to depart for Dhaka on June 16 and will arrive on Saturday. | 1 |
The European Union's executive leader stated that the United States needs to demonstrate more ambition in addressing global climate change during the upcoming meeting of major industrialized nations in Japan. While there has been some progress in aligning views on the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, significant differences remain between Brussels and Washington on the approach to achieving this goal. EU officials emphasized that without the United States taking a step forward, progress on a new U.N. climate change agreement is unlikely until the following year. The next round of U.N. climate talks is scheduled for December in Poland, but with the United States undergoing a presidential transition, significant developments may have to wait until a new leader takes office in January. Barroso stated that the world is expecting more from a major economy like the United States and he anticipates that the U.S. will agree to a more ambitious conclusion at the upcoming G8 summit than the one reached last year. The EU is pushing for the G8 to establish a global goal of halving greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and to also agree on a target for cutting emissions by 2020, although it is unlikely that the Bush administration will support the idea of a near-term goal. Barroso believes that a 2050 target would not be credible without a closer goal as well. He stated that he anticipated the upcoming U.S. president to further support the change in Washington's stance towards measures already approved by the EU. The EU, consisting of 27 nations, has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 20 percent from 1990 levels by 2020. They are currently developing regulations on emissions from industry, cars, aircraft, and other legislation in order to achieve this goal. The U.S. has expressed its dedication to combating climate change but is not willing to agree to mandatory emissions reductions until major developing countries like China and India also agree to enforceable limits. | 1 |
During her speech at the Bangladesh Development Forum 2018 in Dhaka, Hasina emphasized the importance of developed countries providing financial and technical assistance to achieve development goals. She also highlighted the need for global focus on the world trade system to combat climate change and promote overall development, poverty alleviation, and job creation. Hasina expressed optimism in achieving Bangladesh's socio-economic targets, including becoming a developed and prosperous country by 2041 through the implementation of Vision 2021 and the UN sustainable development goals 2030. She expressed hope that the forum would contribute to the creation of strategies for a poverty-free and prosperous Bangladesh. Bangladesh has immense potential as a country and is confident in its ability to showcase itself as a dynamic economy to the world. Currently, Bangladesh ranks 44th in terms of GDP and 32nd in purchasing power parity, according to the prime minister. International financial analysts predict that by 2030 and 2050, Bangladesh will become the 28th and 23rd largest economy respectively based on GDP and purchasing capacity. Bangladesh is on track to graduate from the LDC category at the United Nations Committee for Development Policy’s three-year review meeting in March. However, as an LDC, Bangladesh currently enjoys various benefits that will be discontinued post-graduation. This can be offset by increasing economic mobility and workforce readiness. Hasina stated that Bangladesh is prepared to face the impact of global challenges, with a focus on economic activities that prioritize regional communication, infrastructure, efficiency, employment, technology, and institutional strengthening. She emphasized the importance of economic and social equality, women's empowerment, and equal opportunities for all. She highlighted the significance of private partnerships, including international organizations, in the country's ongoing progress, such as the establishment of 100 economic zones. Hasina noted that increased productivity could help overcome investment limitations, and the Bangladesh Development Forum aims to bring government and development partners together to discuss financing for sustainable development goals to help the country graduate from the least developed countries' group. The conference at the Sonargaon Hotel will span two days and cover topics such as agriculture and extreme climate conditions, promoting foreign direct investment, reducing inequality, enhancing education and ICT, addressing violence against women, empowering women, and improving urban services. The final day will focus on sessions related to women's empowerment, violence prevention, and urban service delivery. | 1 |
The Obama administration introduced a new national security doctrine that combines diplomatic engagement, economic discipline, and military power to enhance America's global position. The strategy, a departure from the Bush era, aims to form partnerships with not only traditional US allies but also emerging powers like China and India. Recognizing economic challenges, the administration emphasized the importance of economic growth and fiscal responsibility as key national security priorities. The policy statement highlighted the need to strengthen the economy as a source of American power. Obama's official declaration of national security goals omitted the pre-emptive war policy of his predecessor, George W. Bush. The document laid out a plan for maintaining the safety of America during wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, emphasizing Obama's preference for multilateral diplomacy over military force in reshaping the global order. The administration also stressed Obama's commitment to engaging with hostile nations while warning Iran and North Korea that they would face isolation if they disregarded international norms. The National Security Strategy, a required document for every president, is significant as it can impact budgets and legislation and is closely monitored worldwide. Obama, facing a severe financial crisis upon taking office, highlighted the connection between America's domestic economic health and its international standing, emphasizing the need for sustainable fiscal policies and reduced reliance on foreign oil. The report did not discuss the growing concern in foreign policy circles about the national security implications of heavy US indebtedness to countries like China. However, it did acknowledge the complicated relationship between Washington and Beijing, commending China for its increased involvement in global affairs while emphasizing the need for responsibility. The report also expressed apprehension about China's military expansion, stating that the US would take necessary measures to protect its interests and allies. In 2002, President Bush asserted the right to unilateral and pre-emptive military action against perceived threats following the 9/11 attacks. In contrast, Obama's approach distanced his administration from the Bush Doctrine, which had supported the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The doctrine laid out on Thursday reaffirmed the commitment of previous presidents to maintain US conventional military superiority, officially marking Obama's departure from what critics called "cowboy diplomacy" under Bush. The document acknowledged the strengths and weaknesses of international institutions, emphasizing that the US cannot simply walk away but must instead focus on strengthening these institutions and encouraging collective action to address common interests such as combating violent extremism, preventing the spread of nuclear weapons, promoting economic growth, and finding cooperative solutions to climate change. Obama's message also emphasized that the US cannot act alone in the world, urging current and emerging powers to take on their share of responsibilities. Obama has been recognized for improving the tone of US foreign policy, but still faces challenges such as unfinished wars, nuclear standoffs, and sluggish Middle East peace efforts. Critics question his reliance on "soft power" and whether it compromises American interests. Obama's strategy includes goals to combat al Qaeda while upholding human rights and rejecting torture. He has also worked to repair the US image in the Muslim world damaged by previous administrations. Preventing the danger of domestic terrorism was identified as a key focus. This decision was made following the unsuccessful Christmas Day attack on a US plane and the failed Times Square car bombing attempt that occurred recently. | 1 |
Jill Biden has become known for her reluctance to engage in fashion diplomacy like Michelle Obama or use high fashion tactics like Melania Trump. Despite this, she has shown that there are different ways to be successful, as evidenced by her recent trip to the Tokyo Olympics where she represented the American industry by wearing a variety of local designers. She also embodied the theme of the Olympics, which focused on sustainability, with the motto “Be better, together — For the planet and the people.” Biden wore mostly recycled outfits from her closet during her trip to Japan, only wearing a new Ralph Lauren navy jacket and pants as part of the official US Olympic Team uniform. Worn during a visit to a Florida vaccination site with Anthony Fauci in June was a floral Tom Ford outfit, while a polka-dot Brandon Maxwell was worn at the opening ceremony and the same outfit was also worn under the famous "Love" jacket at the G-7 summit in Britain in July. Additionally, the floral Tom Ford outfit was worn to dinner with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga of Japan and his wife Mariko. The white Michael Kors dress was worn in Tokyo with a Team USA jacket, and had also been worn earlier with a navy jacket during a G-7 appearance in Britain by President Joe Biden and the first lady. Jill Biden also wore a lilac dress in Honolulu that had been seen before on the trip. Recycling wardrobe choices may not seem significant, but it has been rare in the world of image-making and celebrities since the early 2000s. The constant need for new content is often associated with new outfits for red carpet events, premieres, and state occasions. It has been entertaining to see and guess the designer behind the outfits. However, it has also unintentionally reinforced the disposable nature of fashion, contributing to the abundance of material possessions that many people now lament. The idea that every occasion requires a new outfit has been perpetuated. Biden's decision to reject this cycle is a significant departure from recent norms, similar to her choice to continue working as a professor while serving in the White House. This decision may be just as influential as it is important, especially if people take notice. Biden is not dismissing fashion altogether - each outfit she wears contributes to the narrative of New York Fashion Week, showcasing both established and emerging American brands. By doing so, she is actively supporting local businesses on a global platform. Instead of constantly buying new clothes, she emphasizes the importance of reusing her wardrobe to highlight their worth. The belief that when you discover a piece of clothing that boosts your confidence and makes you feel your best, you should hold onto it. If it made you feel great once, it will continue to do so in the future. Such a garment is deserving of being worn for a long time, not just discarded after a few uses. It is just as much for the person wearing it as it is for others to see. It is not disposable. It is possible for anyone to do what she did. This is a relatable experience, regardless of our awareness of sustainability. It could be a coincidence that she repeatedly wore the same outfit, as she was busy with the Olympics and did not have time to plan her wardrobe. However, considering it was her first solo trip and the controversial nature of the Olympics, it seems unlikely that it was just a coincidence. Due to the lack of audience members in the arena caused by pandemic restrictions, Biden was aware that she would stand out. While her words may not be heard, her clothing choices would definitely be noticed. Her tendency to recycle styles during various events in the first 100 days of her husband's administration, which aligns with the climate-focused aspect of the Biden agenda, was most evident on this trip. This indicates that this may become a defining feature of Biden's time in the East Wing and how she progresses in her role. Ultimately, this benefits everyone involved. Copyright 2021 by The New York Times Company. | 1 |
President Barack Obama reassured Canada, his country's top trading partner, that he would not pursue protectionist policies. The two countries also agreed to work together on cleaner energy technology. Obama, on his first trip abroad as president, addressed Canadian concerns about a "Buy American" clause in a U.S. economic recovery plan. He emphasized the importance of avoiding protectionism and promoting trade for the benefit of all countries. Obama stated that the United States would fulfill its international trade commitments and expressed his desire to expand trade relationships. Harper expressed his confidence that the United States will uphold its obligations and maintain its leadership in advocating for globalized trade. He mentioned his willingness to enhance the environmental and labor aspects of the North American Free Trade Agreement, a goal also shared by Obama. However, Harper emphasized that he does not endorse renegotiating the agreement, which has increased trade between Canada and the U.S. Both sides agreed to work together on eco-friendly technologies for a cleaner electricity grid and to extract fossil fuels with reduced pollution, although the technology is currently not economically viable. Obama emphasized the importance of how we generate and utilize energy not only for economic recovery, but also for national security and environmental sustainability. He acknowledged the complexity of these issues and the need for a comprehensive approach. Environmentalists are urging Obama to push Canada to address the environmental impact of its oil sands production in Alberta, which emits significant greenhouse gases. Despite criticism, Obama highlighted the significance of Canada as a major energy supplier to the United States, especially during a severe economic downturn. The majority of oil sands output is intended for U.S. markets, according to Harper. Although there is an agreement to promote the development of green energy, Harper stated that it was premature for the two countries to discuss a shared strategy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Obama, who recently took office, ran on a promise to decrease U.S. emissions to 80 percent of 1990 levels by 2050. Unlike his predecessor, George W. Bush, Obama is proactive in addressing global warming, but he believes that climate change efforts need to be balanced with economic considerations during a global recession. A White House official mentioned that the U.S.-Canadian green energy initiative would focus on areas such as carbon capture and sequestration, as well as the smart grid. Carbon dioxide is identified as the primary greenhouse gas responsible for Earth's warming, according to scientists. Carbon sequestration, a process that is currently not economically feasible, involves capturing the gas and storing it underground to prevent it from entering the atmosphere. In Afghanistan, where Canada has 2,700 troops as part of a NATO-led force combatting a growing insurgency, President Obama stated that he has not requested additional military assistance. This week, Obama authorized the deployment of 17,000 new U.S. troops to Afghanistan to address the insurgency. Prime Minister Harper announced that Canada, which plans to withdraw its troops by 2011, will increase economic aid to Afghanistan, the largest recipient of Canadian foreign aid. | 1 |
Now, he has just returned from a summit in Hanoi with North Korea that fell apart, causing the cloud over his presidency to darken. Despite the much-anticipated meeting with Kim Jong Un ending in disagreement over sanctions related to North Korea's nuclear weapons program, the testimony from his former lawyer Michael Cohen, accusing him of illegal actions while in office, poses a serious threat to the president domestically. Trump is also facing challenges on multiple fronts, including delicate negotiations with China on trade, a crisis unfolding in Venezuela, tensions between India and Pakistan, and an effort in Congress to block his emergency declaration for border wall funding. Additionally, U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller is expected to conclude his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election soon, ensuring continued speculation about Trump's involvement. Before leaving for Vietnam, Trump expressed frustration that Democrats would proceed with the Cohen testimony, breaking an unofficial rule against criticizing the president while he is abroad. He also expressed a desire for the Mueller report to be completed. A source who attended the meeting stated that he was displeased that the hearings were taking place while he was out of the country and that the Mueller investigation had not yet concluded, leaving him feeling like there was a cloud hanging over him. During the summit, Trump ended discussions on North Korea's denuclearization prematurely, leading to differing reports on the outcome and casting uncertainty on one of his key initiatives. The White House had initially planned a signing ceremony for a deal in Hanoi, but ultimately canceled it. Trump’s Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, criticized reporters for being overly focused on what he deemed as unimportant details and labeled them as “radically uninformed.” Despite the time difference, Trump stayed updated on Cohen’s testimony while at a hotel in Hanoi. Trump’s inner circle believed the president emerged from the week unscathed, as they felt Cohen’s testimony did not reveal anything new and Trump was praised for walking away from a potentially unfavorable deal with North Korea. Christopher Ruddy, a conservative media mogul and close friend of the president, stated that there were no surprises during the week, as they were aware of the challenges with North Korea and expected Cohen to make negative remarks. Ruddy told Reuters that he believes the Cohen testimony does not significantly impact President Trump's political standing. However, Trump allies are concerned about the effectiveness of his re-election campaign in responding to these issues. Former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie questioned why there has been a lack of defense for the president. Trump is expected to receive support when he speaks at the Conservative Political Action Conference on Saturday. During the CPAC event, Republican National Committee Chair Ronna McDaniel defended Trump's handling of the Vietnam summit. She received applause when she mentioned that he left for the right reason, stating that they would not lift sanctions unless there was a commitment to denuclearization. | 1 |
The Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation, organized a rally in the city to celebrate World Food Day on Friday. The theme for this year is 'Achieving Food Security in Times of Crisis'. Agriculture minister Matia Chowdhury kicked off the day's events with the rally, which was followed by a procession starting from Khamar Bari. The event was attended by agriculturists, scientists, officials, and members of the public, as well as hundreds of school children carrying colorful banners and festoons. The program received support from Telefood, a FAO project aimed at ending hunger, bdnews24.com, and Channel i. A seminar to mark the occasion is taking place at Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, with the presence of agricultural minister Matia Chowdhury, food and disaster management minister Mohammad Abdur Razzaque, and minister of fisheries and livestock Abdul Latif Biswas. The seminar will also be attended by FAO Bangladesh representative, AD Spijkers. Additionally, a children's painting competition is set to take place at 3pm at Bangladesh Shishu Academy. Furthermore, a three-day fair centered around 'Agriculture and Food' will be launched at the Krishibid Institution premise at noon. Another fair with a similar theme will also be held at Depasai village in Somobhat union under Dhamrai upazila. Channel i will broadcast the program live. In the afternoon, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will unveil postage stamps and envelopes in honor of the day. Additionally, districts and upazila administrations nationwide are marking the day with discussion meetings and rallies. President Zillur Rahman emphasized the importance of ensuring food security in a changing climate on the eve of World Food Day, stating that research and technological innovation can help increase food production. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina emphasized that agriculture, which is the most affected and vulnerable sector due to climate change, must be prioritized to ensure food security. She noted that Bangladesh achieved self-dependency in agriculture during the previous Awami League government's tenure in 1996-2001, but the succeeding government did not maintain this success. The current government is committed to regaining self-dependency and ensuring food security for all. In his statement, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon emphasized the importance of food and nutritional security in ensuring a decent life, quality education, and the success of all Millennium Development Goals. He expressed concern over the increase in the number of people facing food insecurity due to various factors such as volatile food prices, economic crisis, climate change, and conflict. Ban Ki-moon called for coordinated efforts by all nations to address these challenges and ensure vulnerable populations, especially women and children, have access to adequate food for their well-being. FAO representative in Bangladesh AD Spijkers warned that the goal of eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, as outlined in MDG 1, is at risk of setbacks. "The economic crisis and sudden increases in prices have led to a decrease in incomes and access to food for the poor, especially those in the poorest regions of the world," he explained. Spijkers expressed confidence in the government's commitment to achieve self-sufficiency in food by 2012 and maintain it. He encouraged farmers in Bangladesh to strive towards reaching this goal, believing that they are capable of doing so. | 1 |
Unemployment remains low, inflation is minimal, and economic growth has been steady for almost a decade. As a college professor who often grades, I would rate the US economy as an A- overall, but with the caveat that a more equal distribution of economic gains could warrant a higher grade. However, Trump's policies, not the economy itself, should also be taken into consideration when evaluating his performance. To provide an unbiased assessment, I have examined surveys conducted by the University of Chicago involving around 50 economists from various political perspectives. Surprisingly, these economists overwhelmingly agree that Trump's policies are harmful. This is why many economists are concerned about his presidency, despite the economy doing well. Trump's trade policy, particularly his protectionist tendencies and imposition of tariffs on products like aluminum and steel, goes against economic wisdom. These tariffs have harmed the competitiveness of US manufacturers and have not been seen as beneficial to Americans' welfare by any of the economists surveyed. Additionally, global supply chains have made these tariffs more expensive than they would have been in the past. The United States initiated a trade war with China, leading to China retaliating by increasing tariffs on American goods. Trump caused unnecessary confusion by suggesting he would terminate the North American Free Trade Agreement, leading to a new deal that may not be much different from the original. There is uncertainty about whether Congress will approve the new deal. Many economists criticize Trump's protectionist tendencies, as seen when he declared himself "Tariff Man" on Twitter and financial markets reacted negatively. Even the president's Council of Economic Advisers has determined that his tariffs will harm economic growth. Even according to Trump's own preferred measure, the trade balance, his policy has not been successful as the trade deficit is now at a 10-year high. In terms of fiscal policy, Trump's approach has not been effective as well. The idea behind fiscal policy is that during good times, the government should reduce spending so that during bad times it can increase spending and decrease taxes to support the economy. Trump's $1.5 trillion tax cut, his main accomplishment, provided stimulus when it was arguably not necessary. Due to the unusually high budget deficit in a strong economy, the increasing government debt will hinder fiscal policy's ability to provide economic stimulus during the next downturn. Although Trump may argue that the tax cut was intended to promote long-term economic growth rather than short-term stimulus, economists believe it will fail to achieve that goal as well. Most experts surveyed before the bill was passed predicted that the tax cut would not significantly increase the gross domestic product in the long term. While some argue that simplifying the tax code could be beneficial, the regressive nature of the tax plan would likely outweigh any potential benefits. Recent data suggests that the promised investment boom from the tax cut has not materialized. Despite economists' strong support for Trump's infrastructure spending plans, they have not been implemented despite the potential for bipartisan backing. Monetary policy should be straightforward for a president: appoint competent individuals and allow the Federal Reserve to carry out its duties. Trump has succeeded in choosing Jerome Powell as Fed chairman, who has received positive ratings from economists. Trump's other Fed appointments have also been conventional, resulting in a group of policymakers that Jeb Bush might have selected if he had become president. Trump's interference in the Federal Reserve's decision-making process has negatively affected his grade in this category. Most developed countries, including the United States, typically keep monetary policy separate from political influence to ensure stability and low inflation. However, Trump has publicly criticized Fed Chairman Powell for not lowering interest rates and has even hinted at potentially removing him from his position. This behavior undermines Powell's ability to make independent decisions and could ultimately harm the economy. Trump's actions are counterproductive and create unnecessary complications for the Federal Reserve. His program goes against the commonly accepted beliefs of both Democratic and Republican economists. Despite this, the economy is performing well, raising the question of whether this success is due to luck rather than sound decision-making. Trump's fortunate timing allowed him to inherit an economy that had been steadily improving since around 2010, as evidenced by various economic indicators. Even though Trump may not be responsible for the current economic trajectory, he should be acknowledged for not derailing it. It is possible that the president may not have a significant impact on economic outcomes. However, there is concern that the negative consequences of Trump's policies may not have fully materialized yet. The uncertainty caused by the chaotic policy process of his administration may have deterred some investors, even though their absence is hard to quantify. Furthermore, Trump's tax cuts that are not funded are leading to a debt burden that will need to be repaid by future generations. By weakening the independence of the Federal Reserve, he may have diminished its ability to combat inflation. Additionally, easing regulations in the financial industry may benefit large banks in the short term but could raise the risk of future financial disasters. Removing environmental regulations likely boosted profits for certain businesses but accelerated climate change. Restricting immigration may have decreased job competition, but economists fear it could stifle innovation and economic growth in the long term. It is also possible that Trump's approach is correct, and economists are mistaken. As someone who is officially recognized as an economist, I personally do not agree with this, but it appears that Trump also does not trust the opinions of economists. This was reported by the New York Times News Service in 2019. | 1 |
Officials in London and Washington have stated that the British government was instrumental in forming a three-way alliance with the United States and Australia to deploy nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific. This significant agreement was made shortly after Australia terminated a $66 billion deal for diesel-electric submarines with France, causing anger in Paris and satisfaction in London. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson sees this as his first real success in establishing post-Brexit Britain as a key player on the global stage. Since leaving the European Union 18 months ago, Britain has been searching for its place in the world, with the term "Global Britain" being used as more of a marketing slogan than a clear foreign policy. The agreement made on Wednesday between the United States, Britain, and Australia, in which submarines would be supplied to Australia, reaffirmed Britain's position as a military power with nuclear capabilities and a reliable ally of the United States. This agreement also supported Prime Minister Johnson's efforts to establish a British presence in Asia, a move that initially seemed like a return to its imperial past. However, Britain has since negotiated trade deals with Australia, Japan, and South Korea, and deployed an aircraft carrier to assist the United States in monitoring China's activities in the South China Sea. Former British ambassador to Washington, Kim Darroch, stated that this is the first step in establishing a stronger presence for Global Britain in the defense and economic sectors in that part of the world. Darroch also mentioned that the economic benefits of the deal, such as job creation and financial gains for British factories, still need to be determined through further discussions with the United States. Joining a distant security alliance brings costs and expectations for Britain, despite its military downsizing and financial struggles post-pandemic. However, the alliance is seen as a way for Britain to regain importance after feeling overlooked in the recent Afghan withdrawal by Biden. British officials view the deal as a demonstration of their agility in a post-Brexit world, even if it comes at the expense of a European neighbor. Australia initially approached Britain for help in deploying nuclear-powered submarines, as they believed diesel models from a French deal would not be sufficient in facing the growing threat from China. The longstanding relationship between Britain and the United States in nuclear technology stems from a defense agreement established in 1958. It was inevitable for the two allies to collaborate on this matter. The United States will supply the highly enriched uranium needed for the submarines’ reactors. British and Australian officials worked together to persuade Washington, with Prime Minister Johnson and President Biden discussing the matter at the Group of 7 meeting in Cornwall in June. Britain had to defend its position against American officials who questioned why Australia couldn't just purchase submarines directly from the United States. Britain argued that their military protocols closely align with those of Australia, making it easier for them to operate vessels equipped with British technology. A Biden administration official clarified that the White House never considered excluding Britain from the alliance. Bates Gill, a senior research fellow at the Royal United Services Institute in Sydney, described it as a technical decision with possible implications for trustworthiness. The submarine deal was seen as compensation for Prime Minister Johnson after President Biden disregarded his views on Afghanistan, with Johnson emphasizing the importance of the "special relationship" with the United States. Despite some tensions, Johnson has affirmed that Britain will support Biden on his priorities. One main focus is the rivalry with China, as stated by Thomas Wright from the Brookings Institution. He commended the British strategy, but some in the UK may question if the potential consequences are worth the advantages. Theresa May, Johnson's predecessor, cautioned about the possibility of being drawn into a conflict with China over Taiwan. Johnson previously argued that exiting the EU would enable Britain to have more autonomy in its dealings with China. Before Beijing imposed strict measures on Hong Kong, a territory that was once under British rule, Britain's approach to China appeared to be very similar to that of the United States. Prime Minister Johnson is aiming to enhance Britain's reputation by hosting a productive United Nations conference on climate change in Glasgow, Scotland in November. However, it is uncertain how much support he will receive from President Biden. Britain is urging the United States to increase its funding to a $100 billion annual fund aimed at assisting countries in dealing with the effects of climate change. Analysts say Britain has yet to benefit from having a new foreign secretary, Liz Truss, who was praised for negotiating trade deals in Asia in her previous role. Despite criticism, Truss is seen as capable of adding substance to the idea of Global Britain. However, Britain still faces significant geopolitical challenges. The submarine agreement is expected to further strain France's relationship with Britain, which is already tense due to disagreements after Brexit regarding fishing rights and migrant crossings. The French government's disapproval of Britain was evident in its reaction to the news: it recalled ambassadors to the US and Australia but not to Britain, indicating that it sees Britain as a minor player in global politics. Some analysts believe France is upset because it feels the US is rewarding Britain for leaving the EU. However, Prime Minister Johnson may also face challenges with the US over issues in Northern Ireland related to post-Brexit trade agreements. During a visit to London on Friday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi repeated a warning that Congress would not approve a trade agreement between the United States and Britain if the peace in Northern Ireland was put at risk. Analysts noted that President Biden's casual treatment of Britain in regards to Afghanistan and the lack of notice given to France before announcing a security alliance showed that the United States prioritizes its own interests over maintaining strong trans-Atlantic relationships. Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the US and the Americas program at Chatham House, emphasized the disparity in how much Americans are discussing these issues compared to the British, highlighting the unequal nature of the "special relationship." | 1 |
The main concern for the world in 2010, as highlighted in a report by the World Economic Forum, is the potential for government finances to deteriorate and lead to full-blown debt crises. Major economies have responded to the financial crisis by increasing deficits through stimulus packages and backing private debt, which has raised worries among financial markets. Developed nations are particularly at risk, as many emerging economies have already taken steps to address their fiscal issues. The unprecedented levels of debt being accumulated by governments in an effort to combat recession are increasing the possibility of sovereign defaults, according to the report. He warned that increased unemployment could result from higher levels of unemployment, leading to social and political risks. The report identified unsustainable debt levels, the financial crisis, underinvestment in infrastructure, and rising health costs due to chronic diseases as top risks. Other threats included potential asset price collapse, risks related to Afghanistan, and a possible slowdown in Chinese growth impacting employment, social unrest, and exports. The report also highlighted the danger of developed nations accumulating unsustainable levels of debt, which could lead to full-blown debt crises with significant social and political consequences, including higher unemployment. Hofmann stated that government debt levels exceeding 100 percent of GDP, as seen in the United States and the UK, are clearly unsustainable. Investors face a risk of being scared and questioning the sustainability of high debt levels, which could lead to sovereign debt crises and defaults. Dubai and Greece serve as early warnings that should be taken seriously, as worries over these countries have affected global markets. The United States and United Kingdom also face tough decisions on when to withdraw fiscal stimulus to ensure recovery without causing fear of sovereign debt deterioration. The report also pointed out a "governance gap" between short-term pressures and the need for long-term decisions on issues like health, pension reform, and climate change. The report emphasized that not enough was being done to tackle the problem of underinvestment in infrastructure, warning that this could have negative impacts on food and energy security. According to the World Bank, global infrastructure investment needs over the next 20 years are estimated at $35 trillion. Additionally, the report highlighted the growing financial burden of chronic diseases due to increased life expectancy and unhealthy lifestyles, urging both developing and developed nations to address this issue through prevention campaigns promoting healthier habits. The report also pointed out that the greatest risks facing the world today may come from slow failures or gradual risks, as their long-term impacts are often underestimated. | 1 |
Officials in New York City decided to postpone the scheduled clean-up of the downtown Manhattan park where anti-Wall Street protesters had been camping for a month. The private owner of Zuccotti Park, Brookfield Office Properties, made the decision to delay the cleaning, which was supposed to start at 7 a.m. EDT. Deputy Mayor Cas Holloway did not provide a reason for the postponement. Protesters were happy about the news and celebrated at the park, but several arrests were made when a large group marched through the downtown financial district. A representative from the New York Police Department confirmed that there were arrests, but did not specify how many or provide any further information. Many protesters were concerned that the cleaning operation would be used as a way to shut down the movement, which has inspired solidarity protests in over 1,400 cities. According to Occupy Together and United for Global Change, there were plans for global rallies in 71 countries on Saturday. Protesters are frustrated that U.S. banks, which received billions of dollars in bailouts during the recession, have been able to make significant profits while the average American continues to struggle with high unemployment and job insecurity. Additionally, they believe that the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans are not paying their fair share in taxes. Approximately 1,000 demonstrators gathered at a New York park on Friday morning, with many staying up all night to clean the park themselves. Brooms and mops were placed in large buckets throughout the park, as protesters prepared to clean up after themselves. Bailey Bryant, a 28-year-old bank employee who visits the camp after work and on weekends, stated, "We clean up after ourselves. It's not like there's rats and roaches running around the park." Some people at the park were worried that the postponed clean-up was just a tactic to force them to leave. Sofia Johnson, a 17-year-old high school student from Brooklyn, expressed skepticism about the situation, saying that it seemed too good to be true. She believed that there was still a possibility of eviction and advised against letting one's guard down completely in such a climate. Brookfield had cited unsanitary and unsafe conditions at the park, including a lack of toilets and garbage cans. They also mentioned complaints from neighbors about lewd behavior, drug use, harassment, and offensive smells coming from the protesters. Brookfield did not respond to requests for comment on Friday morning. Brookfield representatives, along with police, notified protesters on Thursday that the park would be cleaned in three stages and would reopen in accordance with park regulations. These regulations prohibit camping, tents, lying down on the ground, placing tarps or sleeping bags on the ground, and storing personal property, all of which the protesters have been doing since September 17. The deputy mayor announced that Brookfield has postponed the cleaning of the park and has withdrawn their request for police assistance. Brookfield hopes to reach an agreement with the protesters to ensure the park remains clean, safe, and available for public use while also being respectful of residents and businesses downtown. They will continue to monitor the situation. Hundreds of individuals have been detained at protests in New York, with dozens more arrested in recent weeks across various cities including Boston, Washington D.C., Chicago, Austin, and San Francisco. Solidarity demonstrations have also emerged at over 140 college campuses in 25 states, as reported by Occupy Colleges. | 1 |
When Hillary Clinton traveled abroad as secretary of state for the first time, she stated that the US could not allow human rights issues to interfere with working with China on global challenges. Now, with Chinese dissident Chen Guangcheng reportedly under US protection in Beijing, the US will see if China follows the same principle. Chen's escape, after being under house arrest for 19 months, comes at a delicate time for both countries, as they prepare for economic and security talks and China deals with a political scandal. US officials believe it is unlikely that Chen would be handed over to China against his will, leaving China with a decision to either let the relationship with the US suffer or seek a compromise. Experts suggest that a compromise is likely, but not guaranteed. A senior official from the Obama administration expressed doubt that the relationship between the US and China would be severely damaged. He believed that the current situation was not as serious as past incidents such as a spy plane clash or the Tiananmen Square massacre. The official anticipated that both countries would make efforts to handle the situation. In 2001, tensions between Beijing and Washington escalated due to a collision between a Chinese fighter jet and a US surveillance plane. The relationship between the two countries had also been strained in 1989 following the violent suppression of pro-democracy demonstrators in Tiananmen Square by Chinese troops. The United States has not officially confirmed reports that Chen fled from house arrest in his village in Shandong province into the US embassy. China has also not directly commented on the dissident's reported escape. According to Texas-based ChinaAid, Chen is under US protection and high-level talks are ongoing between US and Chinese officials regarding his status. This incident could complicate the upcoming visit of US secretaries of state and treasury to Beijing for their Strategic and Economic Dialogue. Chen's escape follows the incident where a Chinese official fled into the US consulate in Chengdu, sparking the Bo Xilai scandal months before a leadership handover in the ruling Communist Party. Chris Johnson, the former top China analyst for the CIA, believes that the current state of Sino-US relations is becoming increasingly tense due to recent events such as the Bo Xilai case, Chen's escape, and the potential sale of new F-16s to Taiwan. Johnson suggests that these developments may be seen by some in Beijing as part of a US containment strategy aimed at hindering China's growth. The resolution of these issues will depend on how China's leadership balances nationalist sentiments with a desire to maintain stability during the upcoming party leadership succession. Shi Yinhong, an expert in US-China relations at Renmin University, believes that China is likely to seek a quick and quiet resolution to avoid negative impacts on foreign relations and domestic politics. He also notes that both countries have too much at stake to cancel their upcoming meetings. "I do not believe that the United States will use this tactic to shame China. They are still interested in exerting influence over China's actions regarding North Korea and Syria. They are looking to minimize the repercussions of this situation, as they are aware that it is already embarrassing for China." The US and China have previously managed to resolve complex issues. For example, on April 1, 2001, a collision between a US Navy EP-3 signals intelligence aircraft and a Chinese fighter near Hainan island resulted in the death of a Chinese pilot and an emergency landing of the US plane on Hainan. The 24 US crew members were held in custody until April 11, when they were released following a letter from the United States expressing regret for the death of the Chinese pilot and acknowledging that the EP-3 had entered Chinese airspace without permission. In February 2009, Hillary Clinton stated that while the US would continue to address issues such as Taiwan, Tibet, and human rights with China, these concerns would not overshadow global economic, climate change, and security crises. Despite the implication that human rights might be given less priority, experts believed that the US could not betray Chen for both moral and political reasons. Tom Malinowski, a former White House official, emphasized that it would be morally wrong for the US to hand over Chen against his will. Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney has accused Obama of being weak on China, which would be further emphasized if Obama were to abandon Chen. Analysts and rights activists have outlined two potential solutions for Chen's case: either he is released in China with assurances of safety for himself and his family, or he goes into exile despite his reluctance to leave China. Kenneth Lieberthal, director of the John L. Thornton China Center at the Brookings Institution in Washington, stated that they would only force him out of China if they were very confident that he would not suffer for his actions. He mentioned that it is difficult to be confident about his safety if he remains in China. Lieberthal also expressed that there is a high likelihood that he will eventually be escorted to the airport with assurances that he will be able to leave on a plane. He believes that he will not be allowed back into China, possibly never or at least not in the near future. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called on weather-vulnerable countries to come together and raise their concerns collectively at the upcoming UN climate conference in South Africa. She emphasized the economic cost of climate change, which is currently $130 billion and could rise significantly without appropriate and timely action. Hasina made these remarks while inaugurating the Climate Vulnerable Forum 2011 at a hotel in Dhaka on Monday. The Climate Vulnerable Forum has emerged as a significant player in the climate change discourse since the UN summit in Copenhagen two years ago. Hasina stated that climate change is a serious injustice that must be acknowledged by the global community, highlighting that countries like Bangladesh are suffering the consequences despite having minimal or no contribution to the problem. The initial Climate Vulnerable Forum took place in Malé, Maldives in 2009, followed by the second one in Kiribati the following year. This forum brings together small island nations at risk of extreme weather and rising sea levels, countries with extensive low-lying coastlines like Vietnam and Bangladesh, and arid nations in East Africa. Hasina expressed disappointment that there had been no significant support for the adaptation efforts of vulnerable countries. She highlighted the lack of access to funding and technology, as well as uncertainty about how the global community would raise funds for the Green Climate Fund between 2012 and 2020. The prime minister urged vulnerable countries to unite and voice their concerns before the COP17 conference in Durban. She stated the importance of collaborating with global partners to address climate change. United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon, who was in Dhaka for a three-day trip, emphasized the need to launch the Green Climate Fund in Durban. He stressed that Durban must fulfill the agreements made in Cancún, Mexico, and that an empty shell of a fund is not enough. He stated that Durban needs to develop a plan of action on loss and damage to assist countries like Bangladesh that are severely affected by extreme weather events. He emphasized that the most vulnerable should not have to bear the financial burden. The UN Secretary-General expressed hope for a compromise on the Kyoto protocol to pave the way for a more comprehensive climate agreement in the future. He gave an example of how the death toll in a cyclone in Bangladesh decreased significantly from 1991 to 2007, attributing it to the success of the Bangladesh Cyclone Preparedness programme which involved volunteers using bullhorns and bicycles to evacuate over three million people. Bangladesh is known as one of the most at-risk countries in terms of climate change. If sea levels rise by two meters, approximately 30 million people in Bangladesh could lose their homes. The Dhaka declaration on climate change will be officially adopted at 4:30pm. | 1 |
The protest involving over 1,000 people caused traffic congestion in the Brazilian capital near the Mané Garrincha National Stadium, which is the most expensive stadium constructed for the upcoming 32-nation sports event starting in 16 days. Adding to the tension, individuals in traditional tribal attire with bows joined the protesters from the Homeless Worker's movement. The group argues that building stadiums for the World Cup was excessively expensive, leading to a rise in real estate prices and displacing lower-income families. Brazil is working against the clock to complete stadiums and urban transport systems in time for the event amidst escalating civil disobedience by various Brazilian groups aiming to disrupt the event due to its high cost for a developing nation. The World Cup has become a platform for advocating various causes, with bus drivers in Rio de Janeiro announcing a 24-hour strike and professors in Sao Paulo marching for a pay raise. Local soccer fans in Brasilia were disappointed as authorities canceled the Fifa World Cup Trophy display and closed the stadium due to the protest march. This protest follows a previous peaceful protest in Sao Paulo, raising concerns about potential disruptions and violence during the World Cup. Military police spokesperson stated that they attempted to contain the protest peacefully but would intervene if the demonstrators approached the stadium. The cost of Brasilia's stadium is expected to be 1.9 billion reais ($849.26 million) once the surrounding landscaping is completed, nearly three times the initial budget. While Indians have not previously participated in anti-World Cup protests, they have staged demonstrations in Brasilia against changes in rules regarding Indian reservation boundaries. President Dilma Rousseff has assured the Homeless Worker's movement that squatters around some stadiums will be provided with affordable government housing. However, her administration has cautioned that they will deploy troops if needed to ensure that protests do not interfere with the soccer matches. Approximately 600,000 international soccer fans are anticipated to visit Brazil for the World Cup. | 1 |
Ahead of next week's crucial ministerial trade negotiations, officials and diplomats are addressing various issues such as banana imports and protecting product names. Trade experts emphasize that the significance of the upcoming Doha round talks extends beyond tariff and subsidy cuts, highlighting the international community's ability to tackle major challenges like the food crisis. World Trade Organisation Chief Economist Patrick Low warned that failure to reach an agreement in trade negotiations could raise questions about governments' ability to address issues like climate change in the coming years. WTO Director-General Pascal Lamy has convened the Geneva meeting, scheduled to begin formally on Monday and last a week, in a push for progress in the protracted Doha round aimed at promoting global trade and assisting developing countries in overcoming poverty. Negotiators are expressing a new sense of urgency and even some optimism. Ministers from approximately 30 countries are aiming to finalize the key aspects of a deal in agriculture and industrial goods next week, in order to avoid the talks being overshadowed by the U.S. elections and the upcoming change in the White House. Indian Commerce Minister Kamal Nath, who arrived late on Thursday for the discussions leading up to the meeting, emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges related to finance, food, and fuel in any agreement. World leaders, including U.S. President George W. Bush and Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, have all called for a deal to be reached. An agreement will involve wealthy countries such as the United States, Japan, and members of the EU reducing farm tariffs and subsidies to allow for more open markets for food. In exchange, countries like India and Brazil will lower tariffs on industrial goods and services to increase access to markets. After ministers reach an agreement on the framework, negotiators will work on the details for thousands of tariff lines and address other issues like fisheries subsidies and rules for imports with unfair pricing. The main challenge now is bridging the gap between developed and developing countries. France, the largest food producer in the EU and the current president, stated that the EU has made all the concessions it can in agriculture. "We share a common goal of achieving a rebalancing of the concessions already made by the EU," stated French Trade Secretary Anne-Marie Idrac during a news conference in Brussels. EU trade chief Peter Mandelson expressed his belief that EU governments had bolstered his position in pushing for more concessions from other parties in the WTO negotiations. In the consensus-based WTO system, each of the 152 members (soon to be 153 with the addition of Cape Verde) has the power to veto decisions. Developing countries, citing the Doha round's focus on development, argue that they should be required to open their markets to a lesser extent than wealthier nations. However, they are being pressured to expose subsistence farmers and emerging industries to competition while affluent countries maintain protections for their own agricultural sectors. Wealthy nations believe they need to show significant improvements in market access in countries like India and China in order to gain support for a deal that requires significant sacrifices in farm protection domestically. They suggest that South-South trade, or trade between developing countries, would result in the largest benefits. While the common belief is that free trade leads to increased prosperity, some non-governmental organizations argue that the current Doha proposals could actually lead to more poverty for farmers and workers in poor countries, as well as perpetuate dependence on wealthy nations. "It contradicts the proposals made by communities and social movements and hinders developing countries from implementing measures to address the crisis," stated Anuradha Mittal, executive director of the U.S.-based think tank Oakland Institute, during a briefing. However, Lamy, a strict Frenchman and former EU trade chief, strongly argues for the potential benefits of a Doha agreement in reducing distortions in the global trading system to help poor countries. He believes that in the long term, this could increase food supplies and in the short term, boost confidence. "We can send a rare signal that there is some positive news in the system. I don't see any other area where this is possible," he said. | 1 |
According to official figures released on Tuesday, India's greenhouse gas emissions increased by 58 percent between 1994 and 2007. This growth was largely driven by the coal-reliant power sector, which almost doubled its emissions during this period. In 2007, total emissions reached 1.9 billion tonnes, compared to 1.2 billion tonnes in 1994. The industry and transport sectors also saw an increase in emissions, solidifying India's position as one of the top five carbon polluters globally. Despite this significant growth, India still has relatively low per-capita emissions, about one-tenth of the United States. The power sector was responsible for 719.30 million tonnes of emissions in 2007, up from 355.03 million tonnes in 1994, while the transport sector's emissions increased from 80.28 million tonnes to 142.04 million tonnes during the same period. Industrial emissions increased by more than 30 percent during the same period, while emissions from the agriculture sector decreased slightly from 1994 to 2007. The report emphasizes India's growing importance in U.N.-led climate negotiations to replace the Kyoto Protocol, stressing the need for major developing nations to be included in global efforts to combat climate change. Figures from the government report, released by Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh in New Delhi, reveal that India is nearing Russia as the world's third largest greenhouse gas emitter, with nearly 2.2 billion tonnes emitted in 2007. China remains the largest emitter of greenhouse gases. The United States is ranked second in emissions, with Russia's emissions increasing at a slower rate than India's. India's economy is growing rapidly at about 8 percent a year as it works to bring millions out of poverty, leading to investments in various industries including coal-fired power stations, steel mills, cement plants, mining, and renewable energy. In 2007, the emissions of the United States and China were nearly four times that of India. India's GDP energy intensity decreased by over 30 percent from 1994 to 2007 due to proactive efforts and policies. He stated that this is a trend they plan to keep going. Energy intensity is the measure of energy used per unit of gross domestic product. India has a goal of reducing carbon intensity by 20 to 25 percent by 2020 compared to 2005 levels. The most recent official report on India's emissions to the United Nations is from 1994, as developing countries like India are not required to report emissions annually like wealthier nations. The latest data on emissions from industrialized nations is from 2007. Despite India's new climate plan focusing on renewable energy like solar power, coal remains the primary source of energy in a country where almost half of the 1.1 billion population lacks access to electricity. India holds 10 percent of the world's coal reserves and plans to increase power generation by 78.7 gigawatts by March 2012, with most of it coming from coal, currently making up 60 percent of the nation's energy mix. While developing nations are responsible for over half of global greenhouse gas emissions, India is expected to see a rise in emissions despite efforts to embrace renewable energy and improve energy efficiency. A government report predicts India's greenhouse gas emissions could reach between 4 billion and 7.3 billion tonnes in 2031, but per-capita emissions would still be below the global average. | 1 |
With the rising prices of wheat and rice, the once overlooked potato is now being recognized as a valuable and nutritious crop that could provide affordable food for a world facing increasing hunger. Potatoes, originally from Peru, can thrive in various climates and elevations, from the cold slopes of the Andes to the warm plains of Asia, requiring minimal water and maturing quickly. They have the potential to yield more food per hectare compared to wheat or rice. Pamela Anderson, director of the International Potato Center in Lima, emphasizes the importance of potatoes in addressing the challenges of food scarcity. The potato is being recognized for its potential to alleviate hunger due to factors such as rising food prices, population growth, increased costs for fertilizer and diesel, and more land being used for biofuel production. The United Nations designated 2008 as the International Year of the Potato to draw attention to its importance, calling it a "hidden treasure". Governments, including Peru, are promoting the use of potato flour in response to skyrocketing wheat prices, with programs distributing potato bread to various groups in hopes of popularizing the trend. Supporters claim that potato bread tastes equally as good as wheat bread, but there is a shortage of mills producing potato flour. Ismael Benavides, the agriculture minister of Peru, believes that people's eating habits need to change as they became accustomed to consuming wheat when it was affordable. Despite the potato originating in Peru 8,000 years ago, Peruvians eat fewer potatoes compared to Europeans. Belarus is the top consumer of potatoes worldwide, with each person consuming an average of 376 pounds per year. India has expressed its desire to increase potato production in the next five to ten years. China, a country known for its history of devastating famines and high rice consumption, has now emerged as the largest potato producer worldwide. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the potato industry is experiencing significant growth compared to other crops. In Latvia, rising bread prices have led to a decrease in sales, with consumers opting to buy more potatoes instead. The developing world is seeing a surge in potato cultivation, providing an opportunity for impoverished farmers to increase their income. Anderson stated that countries are considering the potato as a viable option for enhancing food security and generating income. Despite being the world's third most essential food crop, potatoes are often associated with the plain Idaho variety in the United States. In reality, there are approximately 5,000 different types of potatoes available. Peru is contributing to a gene bank for food crops by sending thousands of seeds to the Doomsday Vault near the Arctic Circle. Potatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, textures, and sizes, offering chefs the opportunity to create visually appealing dishes. Juan Carlos Mescco, a 17-year-old potato farmer in Peru, enjoys eating potatoes in different ways throughout the day. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, releasing energy slowly, and have a low fat content compared to wheat. Boiled potatoes have more protein and calcium than corn, and are also rich in vitamin C, iron, potassium, and zinc. Speculators are not interested in potatoes because they are not a global commodity like wheat. Wheat production is much higher than potato production, and a small percentage of potatoes are traded internationally. Local tastes drive potato prices, and the heavy and perishable nature of raw potatoes has limited global trade in them. They can also be easily infected by pathogens, which hinders their export to prevent the spread of plant diseases. However, the drawback is that the prices in certain countries are not high enough to incentivize farmers to cultivate them. Vendors in Peruvian markets believe that the government should intervene to increase demand. Juana Villavicencio, who has been planting potatoes for 15 years and now sells them for very low prices in a market in Cusco, Peru, expressed, "Prices are low. It's not profitable to work with potatoes." Science is progressing rapidly, with German company BASF working on genetically modified potatoes that can resist "late blight," a disease which caused famine in Ireland in the 19th century and still results in around 20 percent of potato harvest losses globally. Researchers suggest that using clean, virus-free seeds can increase yields by 30 percent and allow for export clearance. This could lead to higher incomes for farmers and promote increased production, as companies could sell unique potato varieties internationally instead of just as frozen french fries or potato chips. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama spoke at a meeting in Singapore with Asia Pacific leaders, where he expressed optimism about the world economy's recovery. However, he also cautioned that if the global economic system is not rebalanced, it could lead to more crises. The Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum released a statement endorsing stimulus measures to prevent another recession and urging a successful conclusion to trade talks in 2010. The final communique did not include any mention of market-oriented exchange rates, after disagreements between the US and China on the topic. An unnamed official from an APEC delegation mentioned that the debate between China and the United States regarding exchange rates had caused a delay in the statement at the conclusion of two days of talks. This highlighted the tensions that are expected to arise when Obama visits China after imposing tariffs on Chinese tires for the first time. Beijing is concerned that this may lead to more tariffs on Chinese products that are becoming more popular in the US market. Obama expressed to APEC leaders that the world cannot go back to the same economic cycles that caused the global recession, emphasizing the need for different policies to avoid imbalanced growth. "If we don't change course, we will keep moving from one crisis to another, which has already harmed our citizens, businesses, and governments," stated Obama. "We are at a crucial moment in history where we can choose a new direction - one that focuses on creating jobs and sustainable growth. This strategy includes saving more, spending less, reforming the financial system, and reducing deficits and borrowing." Washington is also pushing for key exporters like China to increase their domestic demand. Chinese President Hu Jintao has faced pressure to allow the yuan to strengthen, but he has focused on addressing what he views as unfair trade restrictions on developing countries instead. When Obama visits China, the yuan will be a major topic of discussion, as it has been tied to the US dollar since 2008 to protect the Chinese economy. The US believes that an undervalued yuan is contributing to trade imbalances. China is advocating for the US to recognize it as a market economy and make it more difficult for Washington to take action against Chinese products in trade disputes. Last week, China's central bank announced that it will take into account major currencies when guiding the yuan, indicating a shift away from the peg. Obama arrived in Singapore late on Saturday, missing most of the day's formal discussions where leaders criticized the US for hindering free trade with policies like "Buy America" campaigns. APEC is the final significant meeting of global leaders before the UN climate summit in Copenhagen, aimed at increasing efforts to combat climate change. While negotiations for the summit have stalled, a US official stated that Obama supported a two-step plan proposed by the Danish prime minister to work towards an operational agreement first before addressing legally binding details. The APEC statement did not include any references to emissions reductions that were present in earlier versions. | 1 |
The family of the accused shooter in the Arizona shooting spree expressed sadness on Tuesday about the "terrible events," while the congresswoman who was shot in the head showed signs of getting better. In their first public announcement, relatives of Jared Lee Loughner, 22, mentioned it was a challenging time and requested privacy. The statement, credited to "The Loughner Family," expressed that there are no words to convey their feelings and wished they could make things better. The eight-sentence statement did not mention the young man facing charges in the shooting at a Tucson shopping mall that resulted in six deaths, including a federal judge, and 14 injuries. The shooting resulted in Representative Gabrielle Giffords being in critical condition, but she was able to breathe on her own despite a bullet passing through her brain. The family expressed confusion and regret over the tragic events, stating that they wish they could change what happened and expressing deep sympathy for the victims and their families. Giffords, a 40-year-old Democrat, was in critical condition at a Tucson hospital but is "holding her own," responding to simple commands and breathing without the aid of her ventilation tube, her doctor said. Dr. Michael Lemole, head of neurosurgery at the University Medical Center, expressed hope for her recovery, stating that it will be a gradual process. President Barack Obama is planning to travel to Arizona on Wednesday to attend a memorial service for the deceased, which tragically included a 9-year-old girl. In Washington, the House of Representatives had a vote scheduled to condemn the violent attack that nearly claimed the life of one of their own and sparked discussions about the heated politics of recent campaigns. The accused shooter, Loughner, is currently in custody and is set to have a preliminary hearing on January 24 for five federal charges, including the attempted assassination of Giffords. Two young men came out of the gunman's house in a middle-class Tucson neighborhood and handed out a statement from the family to the waiting media. A neighbor had previously mentioned to local media that Loughner's parents, Amy and Randy Loughner, were devastated by the events. Neighbor Wayne Smith, with tears in his eyes, emphasized that the son is not Amy and Randy, and it is important for people to recognize that. He expressed how devastated they are and questioned if others would feel the same if it were their child. The CBS News poll revealed that a majority of Americans do not believe that heightened political rhetoric played a role in the recent shootings in Arizona. The survey revealed that 57 percent of participants believed that the violent political atmosphere was not connected to the shooting, while 32 percent believed it was. Republicans were most likely to reject any correlation, with 69 percent dismissing the idea of harsh rhetoric playing a role in the attack. Although the motive behind the attack was unclear, some politicians and analysts have suggested that a culture of intense language and ideological divide could have been a contributing factor. Former President Bill Clinton advised caution among public officials when choosing their words, noting the powerful influence of the internet and the echo-chamber effect it creates. Lawmakers from both political parties have emphasized the importance of civility in politics, with members of Congress planning to attend a bipartisan prayer service. Following the shootings, Giffords' colleagues in Congress halted much of their work to review their security measures. The House, led by Republicans, delayed a vote on repealing Obama's healthcare reform, which Giffords and other Democrats supported. Loughner allegedly used a semi-automatic Glock pistol to shoot Giffords and others while she was meeting with constituents in a supermarket parking lot. Arizona Governor Jan Brewer expressed in a speech in Tucson that in a brief moment, six loved ones were lost and a sense of well-being was taken away. She mentioned that the impact of this loss on Tucson and Arizona cannot be quantified. Over 600 mourners attended a memorial service at St. Odilia Catholic Church for the shooting victims. Legislation was passed by Arizona state lawmakers to prevent members of a fundamentalist Christian church from picketing at the victims' funerals, a bill that Governor Brewer promptly signed into law. The small church's members have become well-known for attending military funerals and claiming that the soldiers were punished by God due to the acceptance of homosexuality in the United States. They also made an appearance at the funeral of Elizabeth Edwards, the wife of former presidential candidate John Edwards. | 1 |
Xi's address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, which was the first by a Chinese leader, signaled a potential shift in the global political landscape amid the struggle of western democracies with populist nationalism. China, a communist state with strict limits on foreign investment, may seem an unlikely advocate for free markets at an event associated with global capitalism. However, with Trump's protectionist stance and Europe dealing with issues like Brexit and terrorism, China sees an opportunity to step into a possible void in global economic leadership. Xi, speaking to a diverse audience that included U.S. Vice President Joe Biden, compared protectionism to isolating oneself in a dark room and emphasized the negative consequences of a trade war. Real estate mogul and former reality TV star Trump, who is set to become the U.S. president on Friday, ran his campaign promising to take a tougher stance on China in trade negotiations and reconsider or terminate multilateral trade agreements. Trump's team has accused China of engaging in economic warfare against the U.S. However, Xi refuted these claims of unfair trade practices and stated that China would not manipulate its currency for competitive advantage, as Trump has alleged in the past. Xi also encouraged all countries that signed the Paris climate deal to uphold their commitments, which was seen as a direct message to Trump, who has criticized the agreement and hinted at withdrawing from it. China's growing influence was highlighted as over half a dozen senior Chinese government officials accompanied Xi to Davos in Switzerland, a larger and more prestigious delegation than in previous years. Many panels at the WEF are focusing on Asia, including one called "Asia Takes the Lead". Klaus Schwab, founder and chairman of the WEF, mentioned the world's interest in China due to uncertainty and volatility before introducing Xi Jinping. Former Swedish Prime Minister Carl Bildt commented on Xi's speech on Twitter, noting Xi's attempt to fill the void in global economic leadership. Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group, tweeted that the reaction to Xi's speech at Davos was successful in all aspects. Xi's appearance marks a significant departure from previous Chinese speeches. Tensions are rising between Beijing and Trump, particularly after Trump's recent phone call with the president of Taiwan. Trump's comments about renegotiating America's "One China" policy have angered Chinese officials, prompting warnings of a stronger response if his rhetoric does not change. Despite Xi's portrayal of China as an open economy, criticism has been mounting over its restrictions on foreign investments while state-run firms are actively acquiring European companies. As a response to these criticisms, China's cabinet announced plans to relax investment limits in financial institutions ahead of Xi's speech. No additional information was given, and there was no set timeline for when the plans would be put into action. Some officials, speaking anonymously, suggested that China may be trying to benefit economically from the growing rift between the United States and Europe. Bob Moritz, global chairman of PricewaterhouseCoopers, expressed uncertainty about China's future direction and negotiation tactics, stating that it is something to monitor closely over the next year. Concerns about a severe economic downturn in China caused disruption in global markets at the previous year's WEF meeting. While these worries have lessened, the IMF cautioned on Monday about persistent threats to the Chinese economy, such as heavy dependence on government expenditures, extensive lending by state-owned banks, and a booming real estate sector. President Xi attempted to provide confidence by stating that the economy was transitioning to a "new normal" driven by consumer spending. Despite a sluggish global economy, he projected that China's economy had likely expanded by 6.7 percent in 2016. However, some economists at Davos remained cautious about the situation. Kenneth Rogoff, an economist at Harvard University, stated that China remains a major concern and the only reason it is not the top priority is due to the high level of uncertainty in the United States. | 1 |
The World Health Organization (WHO) has significantly lowered its previous estimate of the number of people who contract malaria each year. This decrease is attributed to rapid urbanization in Asia, which has led to the destruction of the forest habitats of mosquitoes that spread the disease. According to a report released by the WHO, in 2006, 247 million people worldwide were infected with malaria, a significant decrease from the previous estimate of 350 million to 500 million. The global death toll from malaria has also been reduced by about 10 percent compared to the WHO's previous report issued three years ago, primarily due to improvements in calculation methods. The World Health Organization stated that it is unclear whether cases and deaths decreased between 2004 and 2006. A report revealed that 881,000 people died from malaria in 2006, which was lower than previous estimates of over 1 million annual deaths from the disease, which primarily affects infants, children, and pregnant women. Malaria has received significant amounts of public funding in recent years, with organizations such as the WHO, the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Clinton Foundation channeling funds towards prevention and treatment efforts. The Roll Back Malaria Partnership of the WHO has called for an increase in funding for malaria to $3.4 billion annually, up from $1.2 billion, in order to improve access to artemisinin-based drugs and insecticide-treated bed nets to prevent infection. Estimating the global burden of disease is a challenging task, and public health experts often need to make significant adjustments to their estimates. Last year, the World Health Organization (WHO) reduced its estimate of AIDS virus infections to 33 million from 40 million due to new data from India. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also increased its estimate of yearly HIV cases in Americans by 40 percent by using more accurate reporting methods. WHO Director-General Margaret Chan stated that less than one-third of the WHO's member states have reliable disease monitoring systems, making it difficult to accurately document diseases like malaria, which has symptoms similar to the flu. Chan announced that the malaria report will now be issued annually to provide decision-makers with current information on the disease, emphasizing the importance of reliable information and analysis due to increased funding efforts to reduce the malaria burden. Novartis AG's drug Coartem is used to treat malaria, and other pharmaceutical companies like Austria's Intercell are also working on developing malaria vaccines, but it will be some years before any are available on the market. Malaria is most commonly found in Africa, where the World Health Organization (WHO) uses climate data on heat and humidity to estimate the number of cases, taking into account mosquito breeding patterns and sample surveys. In 2006, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Tanzania had the highest number of malaria deaths according to the WHO. Outside of Africa, countries most affected included India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Indonesia. | 1 |
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd marked his first 100 days in office by releasing a booklet highlighting his accomplishments and addressing critics who claim there has been little change since he assumed power. The centre-left Labor Party, led by Rudd, won the elections 97 days ago on November 24, 2007, ending almost 12 years of conservative rule. Despite criticisms that Rudd's government has focused on establishing committees, reviews, and inquiries rather than making firm decisions, newspapers have begun reporting on his first 100 days in office. Sydney Morning Herald Political Correspondent Phillip Coorey expressed concern over the excessive use of committees by Rudd's government in a recent article. Rudd's 55-page book highlights his decision to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, deploy extra troops to East Timor, and plan to withdraw Australian combat forces from Iraq as significant accomplishments. However, Rudd emphasized that the most significant change during his tenure was the government's apology to Aborigines for past mistreatment. He stated that the apology was a valuable and lasting contribution to the nation. Critics have noted that Rudd has established numerous committees and inquiries since taking office, with some reports citing as many as 47 committees and a promise of 50 more during his election campaign. In response, Rudd defended his actions by pointing out that the previous conservative government had initiated 495 inquiries and reviews in just one year. Rudd stated that it is a responsible step for a new government to identify areas that require review for future direction. Nick Economou, a political analyst from Monash University in Melbourne, praised Rudd for his initial actions in government, noting that he sought national consensus for his agenda. Economou believes Rudd is performing well, particularly in his handling of the apology issue. He also commented that even if Rudd were to be removed from office tomorrow, he has already made a significant mark in Australian political history. He stated that Rudd's interest in committees and reviews, as well as his upcoming ideas summit involving 1,000 people in April, were all aimed at assisting the government in implementing its plans. He mentioned that Rudd has a clear agenda in mind but is open to involving others in the process, as he values consensus and wants to find the right path to achieve his goals. | 1 |
A draft statement seen by Reuters indicates that the European Union and United States will come to an agreement at a summit on Monday, acknowledging that climate change is a critical issue that demands immediate and ongoing global efforts. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, visiting Washington for the first time since becoming EU president, is pushing for the Bush administration to take specific actions to reduce the greenhouse gases linked to climate change. Merkel is hopeful that the joint statement will set the stage for a more comprehensive agreement on combating global warming at the G8 summit in June, which she will host in Heiligendamm. She expressed optimism about progress on climate and energy efficiency, and emphasized the importance of using this as a foundation for a broader agreement involving the G8 countries, as well as potentially India and China. The statement regarding energy security, efficiency, and climate change will be introduced alongside a wider "Transatlantic Economic Partnership" aimed at reducing expensive non-tariff barriers to trade between the EU and United States. Within this agreement, the parties will work towards aligning regulatory standards and collaborating in areas such as intellectual property, trade security, investment, and financial markets. A council, overseen by EU Industry Commissioner Guenter Verheugen and White House economic adviser Allan Hubbard, will be established to track progress in aligning regulations and provide annual reports to leaders of the EU and US. Apart from the established agenda, Merkel and Bush will also discuss various international issues, including Iran's nuclear program and Middle East peace. Recent comments by Russian President Vladimir Putin criticizing US plans for a missile defense system in central Europe and suspending Moscow's commitments under a major arms treaty have brought Russian relations to the forefront as well. Washington claims that the shield is necessary to defend against threats from countries like Iran and North Korea, while Moscow views it as a provocation and intrusion into its former sphere of influence. Merkel emphasized the importance of discussing this issue with Russia through the NATO-Russia council, although she stated that it would not be the main focus of her talks with Bush. German officials praised the joint declaration on climate change as a positive step for the Bush administration, but the statement does not include any specific commitments to take action. The draft emphasizes the commitment of the EU and US to reduce greenhouse gases and recognizes the findings of the IPCC regarding the impact of rising temperatures on the planet. It calls for the development and implementation of advanced technologies to reduce global emissions and promises cooperation to achieve results at Heiligendamm and in preparation for the U.N. meeting on climate change in Bali, Indonesia in December. During her fourth trip to Washington, Merkel has formed a strong bond with Bush, repairing strained relations that suffered under her predecessor Gerhard Schroeder's disagreements with the US president on the Iraq war. However, as the Heiligendamm summit approaches in less than six weeks, she faces a challenging task in convincing Bush to support comprehensive, enforceable global measures to combat climate change. German officials are also worried that the escalating tensions between Washington and Moscow over the missile shield and the impending conflict over Kosovo independence could overshadow the summit scheduled for June 6-8. | 1 |
He mentioned that receiving an invitation from the G7, a group known as influential figures in the world, is a source of pride for them. This was stated during an Iftar program for journalists covering foreign affairs in Bangladesh, organized by the ruling Awami League's central sub-committee on international affairs. The event was attended by party's General Secretary Obaidul Quader as the chief guest, Chairman Ambassador Mohammad Zamir, International Affairs Secretary Shammi Ahmed, and other members of the sub-committee like Barrister Shah Ali Farhad and Nadia Choudhury. The Prime Minister is currently in Canada to participate in the G7 outreach session, after being invited by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. This elite club has invited Hasina for the third time as a leader of a developing country, which Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali described as "unprecedented." Hasina previously attended meetings in Japan in 2016 and Italy in 2001. Ali stated that this recognition reflects the prime minister's strong contributions to world peace and development, as well as her efforts in addressing climate change, women and children affairs, and the blue economy. The other members of the grouping include France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US. The prime minister is set to discuss 'enhancing resilience through comprehensive adaptation planning, emergency preparedness, and recovery'. She will meet with Trudeau on Sunday before heading back to Dhaka on Tuesday. The Awami League's international affairs sub-committee presented themselves to journalists during the Iftar, as the committee is newly formed. Shammi Ahmed encouraged journalists to provide constructive criticism when discussing government activists. | 1 |
A wealthy supermarket tycoon is expected to win Panama's presidential election on Sunday as voters seek reassurance about their economy during the global economic crisis. Pro-business conservative Ricardo Martinelli, 57, is leading in polls over ruling party leftist Balbina Herrera, who has a history that some voters find troubling. President Martin Torrijos' party has lost support due to rising prices and crime. Frustrated voters like teacher Jose Cedeno are tired of unfulfilled promises and unstable prices. Fueled by the construction of luxury apartments, trade between the US and Asia passing through the country's famous canal, and a strong banking sector, Panama's economy, which uses the dollar, has been leading Latin America in growth with near or above double-digit rates for the past two years. However, analysts predict that growth will slow to 3 percent or less this year due to a decrease in credit availability, a drop in canal traffic, and a slowdown in activity in Panama's Caribbean free-trade zone. This is a concern for voters who are frustrated with high inflation and widespread crime. In a poll on April 23, Martinelli had a 14-point lead over Herrera, and he only needs to receive more votes than his rival to win, even if he doesn't reach 50 percent of the vote. If Martinelli wins, it would be a departure from the trend of leftward shifts in recent Latin American elections. Martinelli, who was educated in the US and is a self-made businessman owning Panama's largest supermarket chain, has also served as a former minister of Panama Canal affairs. He has promised to invest heavily in infrastructure to create jobs if he is elected. Martinelli stated his intention to implement a flat tax rate of 10 to 20 percent, with increased rates for the banking and insurance industries and decreased rates for small-business owners. His campaign was funded by himself and surpassed Herrera's budget. Martinelli's efforts to gain support from lower-income voters, who typically support the PRD, included images of him working at a banana plantation and participating in urban waste collection. Additionally, his charity that supports education also contributed to his appeal to voters. A 60-year-old cattle farmer, Ercilia Ramos, expressed confidence in Martinelli's integrity, stating that although he is wealthy, he is generous towards the less fortunate. The PRD's Herrera had a disagreement with the US when she protested against former President George H.W. Bush during his visit to Panama following the 1989 US invasion that removed Gen. Manuel Noriega. Despite facing challenges in distancing herself from her past connections to Noriega, who is currently serving a prison sentence in Florida for drug trafficking and money laundering, Herrera, 54, claims she would continue to maintain strong relations with the US and her campaign plans are comparable to Martinelli's. Both candidates have stated their intentions to address crime, inflation, and poverty through investments in education and infrastructure, without significantly increasing the budget deficit. Foreign investors believe that Panama's economy and investment climate will remain stable regardless of the election outcome, as Panama is known for being a favorable environment for business with minimal government interference. Roger Khafif, developer of the Trump Ocean Club, expressed confidence that the election results will not negatively impact business operations in Panama. An agricultural engineer who transitioned into politics, Herrera has experience serving as a mayor, lawmaker, and housing minister. She was raised in a tough neighborhood in Panama City by her single mother, who worked as a house cleaner. Voters like Maria Zuniga, a pedicurist, believe Herrera's tough stance on crime will bring about positive change. Former President Guillermo Endara, 72, is lagging far behind in polls with just 5 percent support. Panamanians will also be voting for a new legislature on Sunday. | 1 |
The European Union and Southeast Asian nations have agreed to strengthen their political and economic cooperation, with the exception of Myanmar, which is hindering progress towards a free trade agreement. During a meeting in Nuremberg, foreign ministers approved a declaration on Enhanced Partnership, pledging to collaborate on security, energy, environmental, and development matters. The agreement also includes commitments to combat terrorism, money laundering, cyber crime, and drug trafficking, as well as to address climate change. EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana expressed satisfaction with the growing relations between the two regions, emphasizing the shared values and goals between the EU and Southeast Asian countries. Analysts believe that ASEAN views closer relations with Europe as a way to counterbalance China's growing power and aims to replicate the success of the European Union by creating its own single market by 2015. The EU is interested in accessing the potential of a 10-nation region with a population of 500 million through a free trade agreement, but ASEAN has delayed the deal by insisting on Myanmar's inclusion. The EU has imposed sanctions on Myanmar since its military rulers disregarded a 1990 election won by the main pro-democracy party. EU External Relations Commissioner Benita Ferrero-Walder stated that the EU hopes ASEAN countries will push for human rights improvements in Myanmar, including the release of opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi. "We want to see a change in Burma/Myanmar," she emphasized. The EU is currently working on establishing bilateral cooperation agreements with several ASEAN countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and eventually Vietnam, while awaiting a full EU-ASEAN trade deal. Although the EU has expressed interest in a free trade agreement with the ASEAN bloc, they acknowledge the need to first work with individual countries. Finalizing an agreement with Indonesia is expected to happen soon, but issues still need to be addressed with Singapore and Thailand due to political instability. The EU also plans to pursue a similar agreement with Vietnam, focusing on human rights and trade issues. EU officials emphasize their ongoing human rights dialogue with Hanoi, contrasting it with the lack of such dialogue with Myanmar. | 1 |
Trump, a member of the Republican party, has accused the Nov 3 election of having widespread voter fraud, but has not provided any evidence to support this claim. Despite not accepting Biden's victory since the former vice president secured the Electoral College more than two weeks ago, Trump's statement on Monday marks the closest he has come to admitting defeat. The Trump campaign's legal attempts to challenge the election results in key battleground states have largely been unsuccessful, and a growing number of Republican leaders, business executives, and national security experts have advised the president to begin the transition process. Biden won 306 electoral votes, surpassing the 270 needed for victory, while Trump received 232. In addition, Biden is leading by over 6 million votes in the national popular vote. He has started announcing members of his team before receiving government funding or a concession from Trump. However, Democrats have criticized the president for not accepting the election results, saying it undermines US democracy. The General Services Administration informed Biden on Monday that he could officially start the transition process, giving him access to resources that had been withheld due to legal challenges. This decision followed Michigan officials certifying Biden as the winner in their state, making Trump’s attempts to overturn the election results even more improbable. Trump and his team are still pursuing legal avenues, but Trump's recent tweet suggests that the White House is starting to realize it may be time to move on. Despite continuing to fight strongly, Trump stated that, in the best interest of the country, he is recommending his team follow initial protocols. A Trump adviser compared this to candidates being briefed during a campaign and clarified that Trump's tweet was not a concession. The Biden transition team announced plans to start meetings with federal officials on the coronavirus pandemic response and national security issues. I express my gratitude to Emily Murphy at GSA for her unwavering dedication and loyalty to our nation. She has faced harassment, threats, and mistreatment, and I do not wish for the same to happen to her, her family, or GSA employees. Our case remains strong, and we will continue to push forward. The decision made by the GSA allows Biden's team to access federal funds and an official office for their transition period until he officially becomes president on January 20. This also enables Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris to receive the same national security briefings as Trump. According to two Trump administration officials, Biden's agency review teams may start engaging with Trump's agency officials as early as Tuesday. Biden recently announced his foreign policy team, with Antony Blinken as head of the State Department, John Kerry as special climate envoy, Jake Sullivan as national security adviser, and Linda Thomas-Greenfield as US ambassador to the United Nations. Biden aims to reverse Trump's "America First" policies. The 78-year-old Democrat is putting together a team from his home in Delaware to address the country's significant public health crisis. Additionally, he is considering appointing former Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen as the next Treasury secretary, according to two Biden allies who requested anonymity. Biden has also made a move to overturn Trump's strict immigration policies by selecting Cuban-born lawyer Alejandro Mayorkas to lead the Department of Homeland Security. | 1 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon called on the world to come together and agree on a new climate treaty by 2009. He stated that specifics on greenhouse gas reductions can be discussed after the UN talks in Bali. Ban highlighted the importance of reaching an agreement to start negotiations on a successor to the Kyoto Protocol during the meeting from Dec. 3-14. He emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change and its impacts on the environment, urging immediate action to prevent further damage. Ban urged ministers to act swiftly and overcome disagreements on the terms for initiating formal negotiations on a new global treaty to limit greenhouse gas emissions. The United States is among those opposing the inclusion of scientific evidence recommending significant reductions in greenhouse gases by 2020. Ban stated that negotiations will need to take place in the future, as echoed by Washington, with two years remaining before an international agreement can be reached. He emphasized the importance of countries honoring the U.N. climate panel's recommendation of a 25-40 percent reduction to prevent the severe effects of climate change. Ban called for an agenda and timeline to be set for a new climate deal by 2009, with the United Nations aiming to adopt a new pact at a meeting in Copenhagen in late 2009. The United States, with support from Japan, Canada, and Australia, believes that even a non-binding mention of a 25-to-40 percent range could influence the outcome of negotiations. US Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs, Paula Dobriansky, stated, "We don't want to be pre-determining what will come out of this process." However, the European Union argued that wealthy nations must demonstrate leadership by example to persuade developing countries like China and India to reduce their emissions from burning fossil fuels. German Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel emphasized the importance of knowing the starting point and destination when aiming for significant progress, stating, "If you want to go a long way you need to know the starting point and where you want to go." Ban urged all countries, including the United States, to be more adaptable and open-minded. He also mentioned that global warming, despite its threats, could have positive outcomes by sparking innovative solutions that could generate employment opportunities and alleviate poverty in developing countries across Africa and Asia. Recently, Australia's new Prime Minister Kevin Rudd formally endorsed the Kyoto Protocol, highlighting the United States as the only wealthy nation not committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions under the U.N. agreement until 2012. Rudd, whose Labor Party secured a significant election win last month, expressed concerns about Australia's current climate challenges, such as declining river levels and damage to the Great Barrier Reef. He warned that these issues were just a preview of what could happen in the future. The negotiations are expected to conclude by Friday or early Saturday, and traditionally, the annual U.N. climate meetings involve intense bargaining and overnight sessions. The United Nations aims to reach a deal by the end of 2009 to allow parliaments three years to ratify and guide investments in various energy sources. It took eight years for enough countries to ratify the Kyoto Protocol, which came into force in 2005 after Washington's refusal to sign up in 2001 delayed the process. Failure to agree on starting talks in Bali would jeopardize the chances of a successor to the Kyoto Protocol. Apart from Australia, 36 Kyoto nations have committed to reducing emissions by an average of 5 percent below 1990 levels by 2008-12. The United States is contending that the Kyoto Protocol would have a negative impact on its economy and is unfair in its exclusion of targets for major developing countries for the years 2008-2012. | 1 |
On Thursday, the government announced plans to reduce tax relief on pension savings for approximately 100,000 higher earners, with the aim of generating 4 billion pounds annually and assisting in lowering a significant budget deficit. This decision comes after the recent elimination of child benefits for higher earners, potentially giving the coalition government justification for its cuts as Chancellor George Osborne prepares to present the spending review on Oct 20. Additionally, the government revealed intentions to eliminate, combine, or restructure 481 semi-independent agencies, a move that is expected to result in the loss of numerous jobs. These actions, along with efforts to address government waste and increase university fees, are all part of a strategy to significantly reduce departmental budgets in light of challenging economic conditions, even prompting the queen to implement budget cuts. A representative announced on Thursday that the Queen has decided to cancel a scheduled Christmas celebration at Buckingham Palace due to the challenging circumstances the country is currently facing. The Treasury revealed in a statement on their website that they will be reducing the annual allowance for tax-privileged pension savings to 50,000 pounds starting in April 2011, down from 255,000 pounds. This change will impact around 100,000 individuals, with 80 percent of them earning over 100,000 pounds. Additionally, the lifetime allowance will be decreased to 1.5 million pounds from 1.8 million pounds starting in April 2012, resulting in a total annual revenue of 4 billion pounds. These pension reforms are likely to upset many higher-income earners, who typically support Osborne's Conservative Party, the main party in the coalition government that came into power in May. Numerous newspapers have already engaged in conflict with the government regarding its decision to eliminate child benefit for individuals earning more than 44,000 pounds. Treasury officials are adamant that the measures are just and necessary, and assert that this will become evident on Oct 20. Osborne is anticipated to significantly reduce the welfare budget. Business organizations have expressed support for the modifications to the law, stating that the situation could have been worse. "The recent announcement is not as negative as initially anticipated." John Cridland, Deputy Director-General of the CBI, stated that the government had thought about reducing the annual allowance to 30,000 pounds. However, the Labour Party criticized this decision, arguing that it would negatively impact families with low incomes. David Hanson, a Labour treasury spokesman, emphasized that under their proposed plans, individuals earning less than 130,000 pounds would not be affected. He criticized the government for taxing individuals based on their desire to save for a pension rather than their actual income level. | 1 |
Analysts believe that the assassination of Benazir Bhutto has set the United States back to square one in their efforts to find a stable, democratic partner in Pakistan to combat Islamic extremism. The potential consequences of her death include widespread street riots by her supporters and the fear of Pakistan becoming a nuclear-armed, unstable Islamic state. Financial investors, who are already aware of Pakistan's political risks, stated that while Bhutto's assassination was not unexpected, ongoing instability would increase the risk. Stephen Cohen from the Brookings Institution described Bhutto's death as a setback for the idea of a moderate Pakistan and expressed concern for the future of the country and its impact on neighboring regions, Europe, and the United States. Cohen stated that the United States had focused solely on supporting President Musharraf and had ignored Benazir's requests for communication until recently. The U.S. had invested significant resources in facilitating Benazir's return to Pakistan and negotiating a power-sharing agreement with Musharraf. However, according to South Asia expert Frederic Grare, the situation now presents multiple challenges, including a lack of progress towards democracy and increased risk of attacks by extremist groups, as evidenced by the assassination of mainstream party leaders. He stated that this weakens the political parties and does not bode well for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. President George W. Bush urged Pakistanis to honor Bhutto by continuing with the democratic process she fought for. U.S. officials hope that Pakistan will proceed with the planned elections on Jan. 8. Security analyst Anthony Cordesman believes Bhutto's death has exacerbated an already unstable political situation, as there is no other leader who can create stability, hold legitimate elections, restore the rule of law, and mend the divide between Musharraf and the Pakistani people. Analysts cautioned that in a country where conspiracy theories and intense politics are common, there would likely be blame and unrest following the assassination, potentially leading to violence. Lisa Curtis from the Heritage Foundation emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in Pakistan and advised against declaring emergency rule to achieve this. Some analysts also raised concerns about Musharraf's ability to effectively combat terrorism, questioning his ability to handle issues in remote tribal areas if he could not protect a prominent politician in a relatively secure city like Rawalpindi. Win Thin, senior currency strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co, inquired about the security of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal during crises. US officials reiterated last month's assessment that the weapons were secure despite the turmoil caused by Musharraf's emergency rule. Cordesman of CSIS mentioned that Islamabad had sought US assistance and studied other countries' policies to increase safety in its nuclear facilities. However, he raised concerns about the lack of transparency that would prevent anyone from making definitive statements about the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons. | 1 |
Russia's opposition expressed concern on Tuesday that Vladimir Putin may resort to using force to suppress their protests after riot police arrested hundreds of demonstrators who were challenging his victory in the presidential election. Despite three months of peaceful protests against Putin, over 500 people, including opposition leaders, were detained during unsanctioned protests in Moscow and St Petersburg on Monday. This police crackdown indicates that Putin is becoming less tolerant of demands for increased democracy, transparency, and political reforms. Opposition leaders such as Boris Nemtsov and novelist Boris Akunin believe that Putin's fear of losing power and reliance on the police's baton are becoming evident, and they are wary that future protests may also face similar repression. "It is evident that the time for peaceful protests and demonstrations has ended. I believe there is no reason to plan a march on March 10 as it will result in a forceful response from the authorities," he stated. The police stated that their actions were lawful, and Putin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, supported their intervention. "The opposition's activities included both legal and illegal components. In both instances, the police responded with professionalism and in accordance with the law," he commented. After serving as prime minister for four years, Putin returned to the presidency by winning nearly 64 percent of the votes in Sunday's election. He previously held the presidency from 2000 to 2008. Despite some officers forcefully handling protesters, there was a sense of restraint, indicating Putin's efforts to avoid being seen as a dictator willing to silence opposition. While some protesters suffered injuries, police appeared focused on minimizing casualties during the main protest at Moscow's Pushkin Square, a historic site for dissent. However, tougher tactics were reportedly used against a group attempting to protest at Lubyanka Square, the location of the Federal Security Service's headquarters. Protesters in St Petersburg, Putin's hometown, were forcibly removed, raising concerns among foreign investors about potential clashes between police and protesters. Investors fear that such clashes could harm the investment climate and hinder reforms necessary to reduce Russia's dependence on energy exports. Russian stocks experienced a significant drop in value on Tuesday following warnings from Fitch about the risks associated with confrontation. It seems that Putin is allowing limited protests as a way to release frustration among urban demonstrators after his long rule in Russia. He could also make conciliatory gestures to satisfy the opposition. One example is the Kremlin's decision to review 32 criminal cases, including the imprisonment of former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky and the denial of registration to a liberal opposition group. However, Putin, a former KGB agent, will take strong measures to prevent what he sees as extreme protestors from challenging his third term as president. Any dissent will be met with force. "We saw fear in the eyes of the dictator." Ilya Yashin, a leader of the opposition, spoke at the rally at Pushkin Square, expressing concerns about Putin's display of weakness and uncertainty, as well as questioning the presence of troops and riot police in the capital. The US ambassador to Russia, Michael McFaul, expressed concern about the arrests and emphasized the importance of freedom of assembly and speech as universal values. However, Russia's Foreign Ministry criticized him for his comments, stating that Russian police had shown more restraint than US officers when dealing with protesters in the US. The United States and several European countries have called for an independent and credible investigation into allegations of voting irregularities in the election. International monitors noted some improvements from a previous parliamentary poll but still found the vote to be unfair and heavily skewed in favor of Putin. Russia's Foreign Ministry responded to the observers' report, acknowledging some criticisms but not specifying them. Many Russians have become disillusioned with the electoral process and Putin's ability to bring about change. "I used to have affection for Putin, similar to any woman who appreciates a charming man. However, now I believe he is becoming senile. No one can remain in power indefinitely," remarked Vasilisa Maslova, 35, who is employed in the fashion industry, at Pushkin Square. | 1 |
She made a statement during a high-level meeting at the UN General Assembly in New York regarding the rehabilitation of refugees and migrants. She emphasized the importance of securing the rights of refugees and migrants in all circumstances, regardless of their status, and highlighted the need to protect and promote their rights for global harmony. She praised UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon for organizing the first-ever Summit on Refugees and Migrants, and urged countries to come to a general agreement on universal principles such as mutual trust, respect, shared responsibility, and inclusiveness to address the refugee crisis. The summit also saw the adoption of the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants by delegations from around the world. The text outlines a series of bold commitments aimed at addressing current issues and preparing for future challenges, including initiating negotiations for an international conference and the adoption of a global compact for safe and orderly migration in 2018. These commitments include protecting the human rights of all refugees and migrants, ensuring education for refugee and migrant children, preventing and responding to gender-based violence, supporting countries hosting large numbers of refugees, ending the detention of children for migration status determination, finding new homes for refugees in need of resettlement, and strengthening global governance of migration by incorporating the International Organization for Migration into the UN system. Sheikh Hasina emphasized the importance of seizing the historic opportunity to develop a robust, ambitious, and action-oriented plan for handling refugee movements within a broader development context. Migration should be seen as a reality and a means of enhancing freedom for the greater good, with the proposal of a Global Compact on Migration building on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. She stated that the proposed migration compact should include ambitious and enforceable elements while also being balanced and flexible. She emphasized the importance of promoting tolerance and understanding to accommodate migrants and refugees. Hasina also noted the need to consider protecting those displaced by climate change in the compact. As the current Chair of the Global Forum on Migration and Development, Bangladesh is willing to contribute to the agreement's development. Prior to addressing the plenary session, the prime minister met with Myanmar's State Counsellor and Foreign Minister Aung Saan Suu Kyi. Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Janet Scotland also visited her at the UN headquarters. | 1 |
Australian leader John Howard is facing the risk of losing his own seat in the upcoming election, which would make him the first prime minister to do so in 78 years. Changes in electoral boundaries have made his Sydney seat of Bennelong more vulnerable, with a small swing of around 4 percent enough to unseat him. The increasing number of Asian migrants, particularly Chinese and Koreans, in the area is also seen as a challenge for Howard as he seeks reelection for a fifth term. Some voters believe that Howard's previous use of the "race card" in elections, particularly regarding his stance on boatpeople, is not the type of leadership they want. In contrast to previous elections, the opposition Labor party has selected a well-known candidate, Maxine McKew, a former television and news magazine journalist, to run against Howard in the constituency he has represented since 1974. Despite McKew's recent move to the area, she is currently ahead of Howard in both opinion polls and with betting agencies. Howard, aware of the threat to his political career in his own constituency, has been actively engaging with voters by spending more time in Bennelong, attending community events, and meeting with residents. Last Saturday's Granny Smith Apple Festival, usually a quiet community event, became a lively election rally with the presence of both Howard and McKew. Carrying signs and balloons, numerous followers of both candidates engaged in a loud confrontation. John Booth, editor of the local newspaper The Weekly Times, noted that this was Howard's first appearance at the festival in 21 years. Booth believes that Howard is aware of the tough competition he is facing and predicts that he will lose his seat. According to Booth, even people who voted for Howard in the past are now calling for a change. Bennelong, named after a prominent Aboriginal figure in Australian history, encompasses some of Sydney's affluent northern suburbs. Initially a conservative, middle-class electorate, the area has evolved over time to include more working-class Labor suburbs to the west. Similar to national campaigns, key issues in Bennelong include economic management, the Iraq war, climate change, and new workplace laws. However, the electorate stands out due to its significant Asian-Australian population, with 12,000 Chinese and 5,000 Koreans. Immigration and Australia-Asia relations are crucial topics in Bennelong, where half of the residents have either been born overseas or have immigrant parents. Koh stated that Asian voters in Bennelong have not forgotten Howard's anti-immigration comments in 1988 and his government's efforts to appeal to supporters of Pauline Hanson in the 2001 election. According to Koh, Howard has a history of using divisive tactics which has made many people suspicious. On the other hand, Booth mentioned that Labor has emphasized its Asian connections by showcasing a former state politician and his Asian wife, as well as leader Kevin Rudd who is fluent in Mandarin. Rudd's ability to converse with Chinese President Hu Jintao at a recent summit in Sydney has gained him support among Asian communities. Koh also noted that the Korean and Chinese vote could play a significant role in determining the outcome between Howard and Maxine McKew in the election. | 1 |
Changes in Trump's campaign positions have pleased critics but upset some supporters. However, Trump has a history of altering his stances during the campaign, so it is possible that the president-elect could change his positions again before or after he is inaugurated on Jan 20. One example of this is his stance on prosecuting Hillary Clinton, as he initially promised to do so during his campaign but later stated that he wanted to move forward and not dwell on the issue. He stated that he does not wish to cause harm to the Clintons. Despite this, he did not completely rule out the possibility of investigating Clinton. Trump has denied the reality of climate change and expressed intentions to pull out of the 2015 Paris Agreement, opting instead to focus on utilizing inexpensive coal, shale, and oil. A source from Trump's transition team stated on November 12 that his advisers were exploring options to circumvent the four-year process for exiting the climate accord. In an interview with the Times on November 22, when asked about America's role in addressing climate change, Trump mentioned having an open mind and stated that they would be examining the situation closely. When asked about his beliefs regarding human activity causing climate change, he mentioned a potential connection but was not definitive. It all depends on the quantity. During his campaign, Trump stated his intention to repeal the Affordable Care Act implemented by President Barack Obama, which he referred to as a "disaster." He proposed replacing it with a plan that would grant states more control over the Medicaid health plan for low-income individuals and permit insurers to offer plans nationwide. Trump mentioned in an interview with the Wall Street Journal on Nov 11 that he was contemplating retaining certain aspects of the law, such as allowing parents to keep adult children up to age 26 on their insurance policies and prohibiting insurers from refusing coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions. Trump informed the Journal that either Obamacare would be revised or completely replaced. During his campaign, Trump promised to build a wall on the US-Mexican border to reduce illegal immigration and have Mexico pay for it. He also pledged to deport millions of illegal immigrants and suggested a temporary ban on Muslims to address terrorism concerns. Towards the end of the campaign, he modified his stance to propose a temporary suspension of immigration from regions associated with terrorism and lacking secure vetting processes. Trump confirmed his intention to build a wall in an interview with CBS' "60 Minutes," mentioning it could be a combination of wall and fence. He mentioned that he would prefer a fence for certain areas and a wall for others, stating that he is skilled in construction. When asked about deporting illegal immigrants, he stated that the focus would be on those with criminal records, estimating that there are possibly 2 to 3 million such immigrants. Trump also expressed his support for the use of waterboarding and other harsh interrogation tactics for terrorism suspects, despite it being considered torture and banned under President Obama. In an interview with the New York Times on November 22, Trump mentioned being impressed by Marine General James Mattis' response to a question about waterboarding. Mattis stated that he performs better with a pack of cigarettes and a couple of beers than with torture. Although Trump's opinion on waterboarding remained unchanged, he was impressed by Mattis' belief that it may not be as effective as some people think. | 1 |
Modi did not provide further details on these concerns during his virtual speech at the Sydney Dialogue, a conference focused on emerging, critical, and cyber technologies. However, authorities in India and other countries have raised alarm about the potential for cryptocurrencies to be used by terrorist organizations and organized crime, as well as the destabilizing effect they could have on national economies. While emphasizing the benefits of technological advancements in the digital age, Modi also expressed a cautious stance on digital currencies, highlighting the need for collaboration among democratic nations to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands and negatively impacting young people. According to a report from the Economic Times, Indian officials who are currently working on regulations are expected to suggest a ban on all transactions and payments in cryptocurrencies, but allow investors to hold them as assets similar to gold, bonds, and stocks. Prime Minister Modi recently led a meeting to discuss India's stance on cryptocurrencies, and it is anticipated that the draft regulations will be presented to his cabinet for review in the next two to three weeks. In China, regulators have already banned all cryptocurrency transactions and mining. The value of Bitcoin, the largest cryptocurrency in the world, has more than doubled since the beginning of the year and is currently around $60,000. India's digital currency market was valued at $6.6 billion in May 2021, compared to $923 million in April 2020, as per data from Chainalysis, a blockchain data platform. | 1 |
Paul Eckert, Asia Correspondent based in Washington, reported on the analysis of analysts who believe that Benazir Bhutto's assassination has set the United States back in its efforts to find a stable, democratic partner in Pakistan against Islamic extremism. The possible consequences of her killing include widespread street riots and the nightmare scenario of Pakistan becoming a nuclear-armed, unstable Islamic state. Financial investors, who already consider Pakistan's political risk, believe that ongoing instability will increase this risk. Stephen Cohen from the Brookings Institution expressed concerns about the impact of Bhutto's death on the idea of a liberal, moderate Pakistan and its potential effects on neighboring countries, Europe, and the US. Cohen stated that it is likely too late for the United States to make a significant impact, as they had previously supported President Musharraf over Benazir's requests for acknowledgment. The US had heavily invested resources and political influence in bringing the exiled former prime minister back to Pakistan and convincing Musharraf to step down from his military role. However, this has resulted in a situation of multiple failures, including dashed hopes for a democratic transition and increased risk of attacks by radical groups, according to South Asia expert Frederic Grare. Additionally, mainstream party leaders are being targeted for assassination. He stated that this weakens the political parties and is not a good sign for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. President George W. Bush urged Pakistanis to honor Bhutto by continuing with the democratic process she believed in. U.S. officials hope that Islamabad will proceed with the planned elections on January 8. Security analyst Anthony Cordesman noted that Bhutto's death has worsened an already unstable political situation in Pakistan. He expressed concerns about finding a leader who can bring political stability, uphold the rule of law, and bridge the gap between Musharraf and the Pakistani people. Analysts cautioned that in a country known for conspiracy theories and intense politics, blame would be directed in various directions following the assassination, leading to potential violence amid grief and anger. Lisa Curtis from the Heritage Foundation emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in Pakistan, advising against Musharraf imposing emergency rule. Some analysts also expressed doubts about Musharraf's ability to effectively combat terrorism, questioning how he could address issues in remote tribal areas if he couldn't protect a prominent politician in a relatively secure city. Win Thin, senior currency strategist at Brown Brothers Harriman & Co, questioned the security of Pakistan's nuclear arsenal during crises, with U.S. officials stating that there has been no change in the assessment made last month. Cordesman of CSIS mentioned that Islamabad has received assistance from the U.S. and has studied other countries' policies to enhance safety at its nuclear facilities. However, he also noted that there is not enough transparency for outsiders to confidently assess the security of Pakistan's nuclear weapons. | 1 |
As prices for wheat and rice increase, the potato, once considered boring and fattening, is now being recognized as a valuable and nutritious crop that could help alleviate hunger worldwide. Potatoes, originally from Peru, can be grown in various climates and elevations with minimal water requirements and a quick maturation period. They have the potential to produce more food per hectare compared to wheat or rice. Pamela Anderson, director of the International Potato Center, believes that the potato could play a crucial role in ensuring food security amidst potential food supply shortages. The potato is being recognized for its potential in alleviating hunger caused by various factors such as increasing food prices, a growing population, rising costs for fertilizer and diesel, and more land being used for biofuel production. The United Nations designated 2008 as the International Year of the Potato to bring attention to this, calling the vegetable a valuable resource. Governments, such as Peru's, are also promoting the use of potatoes as a solution to rising wheat prices by encouraging bakers to make bread with potato flour. This potato bread is being distributed to various groups in the hopes of starting a trend. Supporters claim that potato bread tastes just as good as wheat bread, but there are not enough mills producing potato flour. Ismael Benavides, Peru's agriculture minister, believes that people's eating habits need to change because they became addicted to wheat when it was inexpensive. Despite the potato originating in Peru near Lake Titicaca 8,000 years ago, Peruvians consume fewer potatoes compared to Europeans. Belarus is the top consumer of potatoes, with each person in the country eating an average of 376 pounds (171 kg) per year. India has expressed its desire to double potato production within the next five to 10 years to food experts. China, a country with a long history of devastating famines due to its heavy reliance on rice, has now emerged as the leading producer of potatoes in the world. In Sub-Saharan Africa, potatoes are experiencing significant growth compared to other crops. In Latvia, rising bread prices have led to a decline in sales, with consumers opting to purchase more potatoes instead. The majority of new potato crops are being planted in developing countries, offering opportunities for poor farmers to increase their income as potato consumption continues to rise. Anderson stated that countries are considering the potato as a beneficial choice for ensuring food security and generating income. The potato is currently ranked as the third most significant food crop globally, following wheat and rice. Despite the common association of potatoes with the plain Idaho variety in the United States, there are approximately 5,000 different types available. This year, Peru is sending numerous seeds to the Doomsday Vault located near the Arctic Circle, which serves as a gene bank for food crops in case of a worldwide catastrophe. Potatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, textures, and sizes, giving creative chefs the opportunity to create visually appealing dishes. According to Juan Carlos Mescco, a 17-year-old potato farmer from Peru, potatoes taste great and he enjoys eating them in various forms throughout the day. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates, releasing energy slowly and containing only five percent of the fat found in wheat. They have fewer calories than bread, more protein than corn, and nearly twice the calcium when boiled. In addition, potatoes are rich in vitamin C, iron, potassium, and zinc. Speculators are not interested in potatoes because they are not a global commodity like wheat. Wheat production is almost double that of potatoes, and only about 5 percent of potatoes are traded internationally. Local tastes, not international demand, drive potato prices. The slow global trade of raw potatoes is also due to their weight and tendency to rot during transit. They are also vulnerable to being infected by pathogens, which hinders their export in order to prevent the spread of plant diseases. The drawback to this is that in some countries, prices are not high enough to incentivize farmers to cultivate them. Individuals in Peruvian markets are suggesting that the government should intervene to increase demand. Juana Villavicencio, who has been planting potatoes for 15 years and now sells them at a market in Cusco in Peru's southern Andes, expressed, "Prices are low. It is not profitable to work with potatoes." Science is progressing quickly, with German chemicals group BASF working on developing genetically modified potatoes that can resist "late blight." This disease, which caused famine in Ireland in the 19th century and still results in around 20 percent of potato harvest losses globally, is a major concern. Researchers suggest that using clean, virus-free seeds can increase yields by 30 percent and allow for export clearance. This could lead to higher incomes for farmers and potentially expand production, as companies would have the opportunity to sell specialty potatoes internationally, rather than just as frozen french fries or potato chips. | 1 |
German Chancellor Angela Merkel successfully persuaded her fellow leaders to support a single communique on trade, finance, energy, and Africa at a meeting in Hamburg, showcasing her mediation skills ahead of the German election. However, there was a clear divide between President Trump, who prioritizes "America First", and the other 19 members of the group. Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord caused further tension, with Merkel noting that negotiations on climate were particularly contentious due to the US's stance. Similarly, trade discussions were challenging due to the specific positions taken by the United States. The summit in Hamburg was marked by violent protests, resulting in burning cars and broken shop windows, and brought together a mix of leaders during a time of significant change in global politics. Trump's shift towards a more unilateral approach has created uncertainty in global leadership, causing unease among traditional allies in Europe and allowing rising powers like China to step into a larger role. Tensions between Washington and Beijing were a major focus leading up to the meeting, with the Trump administration pressuring President Xi Jinping to address issues with North Korea and threatening trade measures on steel. Trump's first meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Hamburg was highly anticipated, following promises of improved relations during his campaign that were hindered by accusations of Russian interference in the election and investigations into ties between Trump associates and Russia. Putin stated after the summit that Trump had questioned him about the alleged meddling during a two-hour meeting, and appeared satisfied with Putin's denial of involvement. Trump had previously accused Russia of causing instability in Ukraine and Syria, but at the summit in Hamburg, he took a more conciliatory approach, referring to it as an honor to meet Putin. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson indicated that Trump wanted to focus on future relationships rather than dwelling on the past. Tillerson described the meeting as very important, highlighting a positive chemistry between Trump and Putin. The final communique acknowledged the US withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement as irreversible, while the US added a controversial statement about working with other countries to use fossil fuels more cleanly and efficiently. French President Emmanuel Macron took the lead in efforts to moderate the language used by the United States. Thomas Bernes, a respected fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, noted that there is a general agreement among countries excluding the US, but raised concerns about the limitations of progress without the involvement of the world's largest economy. Jennifer Morgan, Executive Director of Greenpeace, praised the G19 for standing firm against President Trump's decision to pull out of the Paris Agreement. The leaders agreed to oppose protectionism and unfair trade practices, recognizing the need for legitimate trade defense instruments. They also vowed to collaborate on economic development in Africa, a key focus for Merkel. Merkel held the summit in Hamburg, her birthplace, to demonstrate Germany's openness and acceptance of peaceful protests. The event took place near a historic symbol of left-wing resistance, the "Rote Flora" theater, which was occupied by anti-capitalist squatters nearly thirty years ago. During the summit, violent protests erupted with radicals looting shops and setting fire to vehicles. Over 200 police officers were harmed, and approximately 143 individuals were arrested with 122 being detained. Significant destruction occurred while Merkel was entertaining other leaders with a concert and extravagant dinner at the Elbphilharmonie, a contemporary glass concert hall with views of the Elbe River. Following the summit, Merkel expressed gratitude towards the police and security forces and criticized the excessive violence displayed by some protestors. However, she faced challenging inquiries about choosing Hamburg as the summit location during the concluding press conference. | 1 |
The government's controversial proposal comes after significant pro-democracy protests last year, posing a major challenge to Beijing's Communist Party rule since the handover of the former British colony in 1997. Analysts believe that the blueprint, up for a vote in the summer, has the potential to reignite political tensions after a period of calm. Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying warned that the political climate in the city may become less favorable, stating that compromise seems unlikely at the moment and initiating political reform will be challenging. Leung mentioned that if the proposal is rejected, it may take a few years before another chance arises. A crowd of protesters, some holding Chinese flags in favor of the proposal, gathered outside the Legislative Council. Another group, holding yellow umbrellas as a symbol of the democracy movement, demanded true universal suffrage and urged Leung to resign. Democratic lawmakers, adorned with yellow crosses on their black shirts and some carrying yellow umbrellas, left the chamber after the government's presentation. Last year, tens of thousands of pro-democracy protestors occupied key districts in Hong Kong, calling for democratic reforms in the selection of the next chief executive. Despite their demands being ignored and protest sites being cleared by police in December, the government has not made any concessions to appease democratic lawmakers who are planning to veto the proposed plan for electoral reform. The opposition group has a significant veto power, but Leung, supported by Beijing, is optimistic that he can convince a few democrats to change their stance. Those who led the "Occupy" movement last year view a vote without open nominations as not true democracy. Hong Kong, although under China's authority, operates as a special administrative region with unique legal rights and freedoms not found in the rest of the country. | 1 |
Critics of the Bush administration's environmental program are increasingly targeting loose regulation, which is now being blamed for various problems such as the US financial crisis and tainted Chinese imports. As President George W. Bush's tenure comes to an end, there is growing criticism of the use of regulation rather than legislation to shape environmental policy. This critique has become more prominent as the presidential election approaches, with both John McCain and Barack Obama taking positions on the environment that differ from the current administration. While the environment is an important issue for US voters, it falls below the economy and jobs as their top concern, according to polling data. A CNN poll showed that 66 percent of respondents considered the environment important or very important in choosing a president, compared to 93 percent who said the same about the economy. Opponents, both within and outside of government, have criticized the White House for its handling of various environmental issues, including carbon emissions, protecting endangered species, clean air and water preservation, and toxic pollution cleanup. Senator Barbara Boxer and Frank O'Donnell from Clean Air Watch have both condemned the administration's actions, stating that the weakening of environmental regulations has negative consequences for public health and the environment. A Capitol Hill staffer who is knowledgeable about global warming legislation accused the Bush administration of actively trying to hinder efforts to limit greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change. According to the staffer, the administration was the main barrier to making progress and did everything possible to prevent any action from being taken. James Connaughton, the head of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, strongly disagreed with this accusation, stating that the Bush administration has achieved as much or more in terms of environmental accomplishments compared to previous administrations, sometimes through regulations and other times through incentives. Connaughton criticized states, particularly California, for setting high environmental standards but not meeting them. He criticized Congress for not reinstating the Clean Air Interstate Rule after it was rejected by a federal appeals court in July. Bush initially promised to regulate carbon emissions when he ran for president in 2000, but changed his stance once in office, citing job loss and unfair advantages to developing countries. The Supreme Court ruled in 2007 that the EPA could regulate greenhouse gases if they posed a health risk. The EPA delayed a decision on this ruling, leaving the regulatory action to the next president. Conservation groups have heavily criticized the Bush administration for its handling of endangered species designations. So far, 58 species have been listed under the Endangered Species Act during the current president's term, in comparison to 522 species under President Bill Clinton and 231 under President George H.W. Bush. The Bush administration waited until one day before a court-ordered deadline to list the polar bear as threatened by climate change. Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne stated that the listing would not directly address climate change, and he was taking steps to prevent the decision from being used to implement global warming policies. The decision was commended by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce as a sensible compromise between business interests and environmental protection. During a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing on September 24, Boxer criticized the Bush administration for allegedly attempting to weaken the EPA and Interior Department's efforts to safeguard public health and the environment. | 1 |
The Franco-German partnership, which has reached its 50-year milestone, has expanded beyond the European Union to Bangladesh. Construction of the first collocated Franco-German embassy in the world is currently underway in Dhaka. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier and French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius will visit Dhaka together on Monday to strengthen relations. Their visit precedes the November climate conference in Paris, and they will also participate in the topping-off ceremony of the joint embassy in Baridhara. German Ambassador in Dhaka Thomas Prinz told bdnews24.com that the upcoming embassy, jointly constructed and operated by France and Germany, would be the first of its kind worldwide. He explained that the building's design, featuring differently colored facade elements, would symbolize the close relationship between the two countries by hinting at a DNA structure. Foreign Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali described the visit as historic, as it would be the first joint visit of its kind. He also mentioned that he would be accompanying the two ministers on a trip to the Patuakhali district to observe projects addressing the impacts of climate change. The officials from the foreign ministry mentioned that they would participate in a working lunch organized by Ali at the state guest house Padma, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Ganabhaban. After attending the topping-off ceremony at the new joint embassy, they would depart from Dhaka at night. The German ambassador explained that the idea for this embassy project originated from the 'joint declaration' commemorating the 40th anniversary of the Elysée Treaty signing in January 2004. The declaration emphasized the decision to construct a joint embassy in order to enhance the diplomatic and consular services network of both countries. The foundation stone for the embassy was laid in 2013 during the 50th anniversary of the Treaty. The Elysée Treaty, seen as a symbol of reconciliation, outlined the future of a strong Franco-German friendship, cooperation, and partnership. Ambassador Prinz emphasized that Germany is a dedicated member of the European Union and believes in the shared values and principles of unity in diversity. The close friendship between France and Germany is vital to the success of the European Union. Both countries supported Bangladesh during the 1971 War of Independence from Pakistan, and Germany remains the largest single-country trading partner for Bangladesh in the EU, providing duty-free market access for all products. France and Germany both collaborate with Bangladesh on multiple international issues such as sustainable development, climate change readiness, culture, and human rights. The visit is important globally, as the German representative stated that challenges are becoming increasingly complex and often require international cooperation. For instance, he mentioned that in order to combat climate change successfully, it is essential for the international community to unite and negotiate a strong, all-encompassing, and legally binding agreement at the upcoming climate conference in Paris in December. | 1 |
The leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada pledged to combat the spread of the H1N1 swine flu and address climate change during their summit, but had differing views on trade issues. US President Barack Obama, Mexican President Felipe Calderon, and Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper met amid economic challenges in each country, with a US recovery being crucial for regional progress. Obama and Harper announced plans to share information to prepare for a potential increase in H1N1 cases in the upcoming months, while Calderon emphasized the importance of all three countries working together to minimize the impact of the virus on their populations. All three leaders pledged to uphold the North American Free Trade Agreement that links their nations in trade, although they had differences on certain issues. Harper brought up Canada's worries about the "Buy American" clauses in the $787 billion U.S. economic stimulus package with Obama, expressing concerns that Canadian businesses could be excluded. Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States. Obama emphasized the importance of recognizing that no broad protectionist measures have been implemented and that the "Buy American" provisions only apply to the stimulus and do not put at risk the billions of dollars in trade between the two countries. Calderon, who is pushing for a resolution to a cross-border trucking dispute to allow Mexican trucks into the United States, stated that all three leaders agree on the importance of adhering to NAFTA and addressing unresolved issues that hinder regional competitiveness. Obama informed Calderon that he was collaborating with the US Congress to address safety issues with Mexican trucks. He emphasized the importance of avoiding protectionism and instead expanding trade between the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The leaders also released a statement on their joint efforts to combat climate change in preparation for the upcoming global summit in Copenhagen. They stressed the urgency of taking aggressive action on climate change. | 1 |
LOS ANGELES, Mon Jan 26,(bdnews24.com/Reuters) - Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has expressed concern over California's $42 billion deficit during the current economic downturn, stating that the state is close to insolvency. California has seen more people leaving than any other US state due to issues such as heavy traffic, limited job opportunities, and high taxes. Despite the possibility of increased taxes and reduced public services, experts believe that California, the most populous US state and the world's eighth-largest economy, has the potential to recover and may undergo significant economic changes that will benefit the state in the long run. Economists and historians believe that California's abundant natural resources, strategic ports, access to the Pacific Rim, young workforce, entrepreneurial spirit, and focus on technology industries bode well for its future. Despite some challenges created by the government, such as the state's economic issues, experts like Jerry Nickelsburg from UCLA Anderson Forecast remain optimistic about California's prospects. Governor Schwarzenegger's recent somber message about the state's economy has garnered attention, but overall, the outlook for California is positive. "The state of California is currently facing a crisis," stated the former actor and bodybuilder, who will be finishing his second term next year. He emphasized the importance of addressing this crisis as the top priority for the people. The $42 billion deficit is a burden that is weighing heavily on the state and needs to be resolved urgently. Controller John Chiang then announced that $3.7 billion in tax refunds and other payments would be delayed due to the state running out of money. The current state of California is a stark contrast to the prosperous post-World War Two era, with rising incomes, ample land, affordable housing, and expansive freeways. The prosperous times abruptly ended during the 1973 OPEC recession, according to Dowell Myers, an urban planning and demography professor at the University of Southern California, and they have not fully returned. Economists point to California's heavy dependence on personal income taxes as a key issue, leading to fluctuating revenue levels. California, known for its entrepreneurial culture, faces challenges as entrepreneurs who thrive during economic booms may struggle during downturns. Proposition 13, a voter-approved amendment to the state Constitution, plays a significant role in the state's reliance on income taxes by limiting property tax increases and requiring a two-thirds legislative approval for any tax hikes. The 1978 measure is seen as the catalyst for anti-tax sentiment in other states and played a role in Ronald Reagan's election as U.S. president. Lawmakers have reacted by imposing high income and sales taxes on state residents. Economists believe the state has needed to address its revenue fluctuations for a long time and are optimistic that the current crisis will compel leaders to take action. They are not overly concerned about the number of people leaving the state, as California's large population makes comparisons with other states misleading. Additionally, California's population continues to grow due to immigration and births, and its young workforce may give it an advantage as baby boomers retire. According to some projections, California's population is expected to reach 60 million by 2050, which is six times the population in 1950 and 60 percent more than the current 38 million. Home prices in Southern California dropped by 35 percent in 2008 due to the mortgage crisis and foreclosures, making home ownership more attainable for young families. However, the state's unemployment rate reached a 14-year high of 9.3 percent in December, surpassing the national average of 7.2 percent. Despite these challenges, California remains a leader in industries such as green energy, biotechnology, and aerospace, which are expected to thrive in the global economy and create new job opportunities. Myers believes that in order to address the problems in California, drastic actions may be necessary to wake people up and force a reassessment. Jessica Gould, a graduate student at USC, is optimistic about the potential for change in California due to the current crisis. I am worried about the budget situation, to be honest. However, challenges can arise anywhere, and there are many other benefits of living here that I value. So, I consider it a minor inconvenience. | 1 |
Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan announced his new role as chairman of a green group funded by Bill Gates to address Africa's dwindling food production and aim to double output. Annan expressed his honor in taking on this important position and emphasized the need to address the challenges faced by millions of small-scale farmers in Africa. The Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, established with funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the Rockefeller Foundation, aims to support African farmers in increasing productivity and income sustainably. The group, headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, seeks to combat poverty and hunger among small-scale farmers and their families across the continent. Annan stated that the organization plans to collaborate with governments and farmers to enhance local and regional agricultural markets, improve irrigation, soil health, and farmer training, as well as support the development of new seed systems that can better withstand the challenging African climate. He emphasized that the organization will not promote the use of genetically modified seeds, which have sparked controversy in some African nations, but instead will focus on enhancing disease resistance in existing seeds. Annan made these remarks at the World Economic Forum for Africa in Cape Town, expressing hope that agricultural productivity could potentially double or even triple within the next 10-20 years through concrete actions rather than just wishful thinking. The Alliance expressed its support for the goals set forth in the African Union's Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), which aims for a 6 percent annual increase in food production by 2015. The group plans to implement changes in farming practices similar to those that have successfully increased agricultural productivity in Asia and Latin America. During his time at the United Nations, Annan frequently highlighted the connection between Africa's struggling agricultural systems and its ongoing issues with hunger and poverty. He noted that in the past five years, there has been a 12 percent increase in underweight children in Africa. Annan, who is from Ghana, completed a 10-year term as UN secretary-general last year. | 1 |
The UK government is preparing to announce measures on Thursday to address the country's low recycling rates and decrease its reliance on environmentally harmful landfill sites, according to Environment Minister Ben Bradshaw. Bradshaw mentioned that the government is considering various positive incentive programs for citizens, including financial rewards. The upcoming Waste Strategy, to be presented by Environment Secretary David Miliband, will detail how the government intends to adhere to stringent European Union regulations regarding reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills in England. A government proposal from last year suggested raising the recycling and composting rate of household waste from 27 percent to 40 percent by 2010 and 50 percent by 2020. Recent data from the Institute for Public Policy Research and the Green Alliance shows that Britain ranks poorly in terms of recycling compared to other European countries, with only Greece and Portugal recycling less. Campaigners are calling for the government to implement increasing charges for rubbish collections in order to promote more recycling among households. A recent consultation revealed strong public support for some form of variable charging, although there were concerns that higher costs could result in an increase in fly-tipping. According to Bradshaw, it is crucial for the government to boost recycling rates and decrease reliance on landfill, which has serious environmental consequences. He emphasized the importance of not wasting materials that could be recycled or converted into energy, as well as the harmful methane emissions produced by landfills. Despite this, Bradshaw believes that collection schedules should continue to be managed by local authorities. Some councils have angered residents by changing to fortnightly waste collections. Friends of the Earth believes there should be mandatory recycling targets for businesses and opposes the government's plan to build more incinerators, stating that they produce more carbon dioxide than gas-fired power stations. | 1 |
A series of anti-poverty targets established at the UN in 2000 were discussed by the secretary-general, who emphasized the importance of helping those most in need in order to achieve the Millennium Goals. He also stressed the need for the UN Human Rights Council to fulfill its role in promoting human rights globally. Ban expressed support for multilateralism as the best approach for addressing global challenges in an interconnected world. He stated that the only way to address them is through the UN. Over 190 speakers are set to take part in this year's general debate, with over 70 heads of State and nearly 30 heads of government expected to participate. The debate will run until October 3rd. The assembly's general debate follows recent high-level meetings on various global issues. Ban is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with more than 100 heads of State, government officials, or ministers in the next two weeks. | 1 |
Japan's prime minister, Yukio Hatoyama, began three days of talks in India on Monday with a focus on improving relations and increasing trade between the two countries. Hatoyama, who took office in September, aims to establish a new role for east Asia in global diplomacy. Despite a decline in popularity, he is working towards strengthening ties with India, which has been ongoing since Japan imposed sanctions on India following its nuclear tests in 1998. Hatoyama started his visit by meeting with Indian business leaders in Mumbai, including Ratan Tata and Mukesh Ambani, at a hotel that was targeted by gunmen in 2008. Later, he was scheduled to hold discussions with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. India, a long-standing recipient of Japanese aid, is interested in learning more about Hatoyama's foreign policy, particularly Tokyo's efforts to establish a more independent foreign policy and strengthen ties with China, India's historical rival. New Delhi is keen on understanding India's role in Hatoyama's proposed East Asian community with a single currency, modeled after the European Union. Siddharth Varadarajan, a senior editor at The Hindu newspaper, noted that Hatoyama's approach differs from previous Japanese leaders, offering India and Japan an opportunity to enhance their bilateral relations in a more stable manner. This contrasts with New Delhi's previous view of Japan as a counterbalance to a growing China. Boosting trade is seen as a way to strengthen the partnership between India and Japan, which has been highlighted by their recent military cooperation and Japanese support for the U.S.-India civilian nuclear deal. According to India's foreign ministry spokesman Vishnu Prakash, the two countries are currently in discussions to finalize a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with twelve rounds of talks already completed. Japan is currently India's sixth largest investor, and the goal is to increase bilateral trade from over $12 billion in 2008-09 to $20 billion by the following year. Hatoyama's discussions in India could also address climate change policies, as the two countries have differing views on expanding Japanese support for renewable energy projects in India. Additionally, talks will cover Japan's proposal to train former Taliban members as part of a $5 billion aid package for Afghanistan. India is cautious about involving the Taliban in Kabul's power structures. Hatoyama's administration aims to portray the visit as successful amidst growing domestic criticism. Recently, he approved a record trillion dollar budget, which will increase Japan's significant debt as the government grapples with economic challenges. Japanese voters are increasingly questioning Hatoyama's competence in making difficult foreign policy choices, and the recent arrest of two ex-aides has led to demands for further clarification on a scandal involving inaccuracies in political funding records. | 1 |
European leaders have been trying to avoid taking sides since Obama suggested the US should focus on Asia over its rivalry with China. They hoped for stability between the superpowers and to balance their own interests. However, the Trump administration's actions against China increased tensions, and now the Biden administration has announced an alliance with the US, Britain, and Australia to deploy nuclear-powered submarines in the Pacific, resulting in the cancellation of a $66 billion deal for Australia to buy French submarines. Thomas Gomart, director of the French Institute of International Relations, stated that Europeans are hesitant to make a decision between the United States and China, and the Biden administration is pushing for a choice. France was upset by recent events, including the cancellation of a defense deal, but it may have a positive outcome for their goal of achieving "strategic autonomy." French President Emmanuel Macron has been a strong advocate for Europe maintaining a balanced relationship with both the United States and China, as echoed by Josep Borrell Fontelles, the European Union's foreign policy chief. The French were embarrassed by the sudden announcement of the submarine deal by the Americans, which came after the chaotic situation in Afghanistan. European allies were angry at the lack of consultation from the Biden administration, leading to doubts about the US as a reliable security partner. Some experts believe that France may try to use this setback to push for strategic autonomy, but others think it may be seen as a self-serving move by the French. Europe's ability to balance its priorities is becoming increasingly challenging, according to Rosa Balfour, director of Carnegie Europe. She emphasized the importance of Europe reevaluating its position and actions, noting that increased defense spending and building security capacity are essential. Balfour also highlighted the significance of maintaining alliances with countries like Britain and the United States to enhance Europe's influence on the global stage. The recent formation of the AUKUS alliance aims to strengthen security efforts against China by integrating Australia and Britain into the broader American strategy. Analysts agree that the United States and Britain offer a stronger deterrent to China in the Indo-Pacific for Australia compared to the deal with France. Ian Lesser, from the German Marshall Fund, believes this sends a significant message to Beijing, particularly benefiting Australia. He also questions why American actions in the Pacific must be seen as diminishing Europe's importance. The European Union may struggle to find the political will for strategic autonomy, as noted by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen during her state of the EU address on the same day the new Asian alliance was revealed. France is moving towards autonomy, but it is uncertain whether the rest of Europe is interested in this and distancing themselves from the United States. There are concerns about France isolating itself as the US remains a critical partner in many regions where France has security concerns. Questions about America's reliability as a security partner, especially in a conflict with China, are being raised. In Poland, a strong American ally, the response to the new alliance was positive, focusing on the US, UK, and Australia uniting against China and defending the free world. However, there are also concerns about the Biden administration not consulting with European allies. He said that this time it was the French who were prioritized over us, similar to when Nord Stream 2 was completed for Germany instead of supporting Ukraine and Poland. The decision to allow the natural gas pipeline from Russia to Germany was seen as favoring strong alliances with Germany and Australia, at the expense of other allies. In terms of relations with China, Europeans would rather avoid angering Beijing, according to Balfour from Carnegie Europe. European allies have shown discomfort with more aggressive stances on China and are aware of the importance of engaging in conversations with China regarding climate and trade. The speaker suggested that if Europe can continue dialogue with Beijing without being seen as aligning with a security pact against China, it could be beneficial. The speaker also mentioned that it would be advantageous if the European Union can navigate this situation diplomatically and avoid polarizing the world into pro or anti-China factions, as Beijing is promoting. | 1 |
US technology and other companies submitted around 200,000 visa applications on Tuesday for highly skilled foreign workers, competing for just 65,000 H-1B visas. These visas allow U.S. companies to hire foreign workers for specialized jobs for up to six years. Last year, the government received 120,000 applications on the first day, leaving many applicants, including German national Sven, without a visa. Sven, who prefers not to disclose his last name for privacy reasons, will once again participate in the H-1B visa lottery this year despite knowing that his chances are slim. The 33-year-old, who spent eight years studying civil engineering at a German university, likened winning the visa lottery to hitting the jackpot. He was surprised by the number of applicants in just two days last year. Although his company has been supportive by covering legal fees and supplying necessary information to the government, Sven is disappointed that his fate of working in America is left to chance. This year, there is a possibility that it will be even harder to obtain an H-1B visa. Experts predict around 200,000 applications will be submitted on the first day that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) starts accepting visa petitions for the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2008. Jack Krumholtz, managing director of federal government affairs for Microsoft Corp, expressed concern that job offers are dependent on a lottery system. Last year, USCIS closed applications after two days and selected visa recipients through a computerized lottery to ensure equal chances for all applicants. However, technology companies argue that the high demand for visas highlights the necessity for the industry to utilize foreign talent. Heather Dickinson, a spokesperson for Cisco Systems Inc., stated that not being able to hire the most skilled workers puts U.S. companies like Cisco at a competitive disadvantage. Companies in STEM fields believe the current system creates a dilemma where there are not enough qualified American candidates and restrictions prevent companies from hiring foreign workers. Krumholtz emphasized the importance of finding a solution to maintain the U.S.'s competitiveness and economic well-being. Immigration lawyer Jacob Sapochnick described the current situation as a "bad joke" and mentioned he is processing numerous visa applications for employers and workers in various industries. Last year, Sapochnick filed around 200 applications for visas and approximately half of them were approved. This year, the situation is even more uncertain as the USCIS announced it will not be closing the application window for five business days. Sapochnick anticipates around 300,000 applications will be submitted during this time. He described the situation as almost comical. The National Association of Manufacturers is calling for a permanent solution to address the shortage of skilled workers in manufacturing and other industries. In 2000, the quota for H-1B visas was increased to 195,000 per year but as the tech industry declined, the quota was lowered to 65,000. Tech companies are pushing for an increase in the quota, while labor groups are against it, believing it would negatively impact job opportunities for American workers. Approximately one-third of Microsoft's U.S. employees have needed visa assistance, with the company submitting 1,200 H-1B visa applications last year and receiving 900 approvals. This year, Microsoft is increasing its chances in the lottery by submitting approximately 1,600 applications. Krumholtz stated that the company has 3,000 to 4,000 job openings that they are looking to fill. However, he mentioned that their immigration staff anticipates only getting about 40 percent, or 640 visas, approved. Attorney Bob Gaynor, who specializes in immigration law, expressed concerns from his clients applying for H-1B visas this year, especially in the computer selection process. Gaynor, who represents professionals from various countries, estimated that around 200,000 applications would be submitted on Tuesday. "It is unfortunate," Gaynor expressed. "These individuals truly make a significant impact on the economic environment of the nation." | 1 |
A group of key emerging economies, such as China and India, have come together to exert pressure on developed nations at the upcoming climate change talks in Copenhagen. Following two days of discussions in Beijing, these countries have reached a consensus on important issues, including the necessity for the West to provide financial assistance and technology to aid developing nations in addressing global warming. The meeting involved high-ranking officials from China, India, Brazil, South Africa, and Sudan, the current leader of the Group of 77 developing countries. China, India, and Brazil are among the top greenhouse gas emitters globally, primarily due to deforestation, and have committed to reducing their carbon emissions. According to a statement released after the talks, steps taken by wealthy nations to combat climate change are not deemed sufficient. The purpose of the meeting in Copenhagen was to lay the groundwork for a positive, ambitious, and fair outcome. The negotiations were meant to lead to a stronger and more comprehensive climate agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. However, the discussions that began in Bali two years ago have not been successful in narrowing the gap between rich and poor countries on emission reduction efforts, measurement and reporting methods, and financial responsibilities. Denmark and several wealthy nations are supporting a plan to reach a comprehensive political agreement at Copenhagen and finalize the legally binding details in 2010. However, some developing countries are pushing for a more robust outcome. Developing nations are also concerned about attempts to replace the Kyoto Protocol with a new agreement or selectively incorporating its provisions into another agreement. The European Union has criticized the Kyoto Protocol for failing to reduce emissions from wealthy nations and has called for a new agreement. The Beijing statement emphasized the importance of keeping the Kyoto Protocol in place, with wealthy countries taking responsibility for reducing emissions in line with the protocol's second commitment period starting in 2013. Developing nations have agreed to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in exchange for assistance from developed countries. The negotiation strategy, personally outlined by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, was discussed by participants including Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh. Beijing's top climate negotiator, Xie Zhenhua, will present the strategy in Copenhagen. The statement from Beijing seems to reject Denmark's proposal for a political agreement in Copenhagen, according to the global conservation group WWF. WWF's leader, Kim Carstensen, expressed that it is not surprising that emerging economies are challenging developed nations in this way. The Danish proposal is very weak, to be honest, and it is clear that the governments of developing countries are not foolish. | 1 |
The Commonwealth expressed concern on Saturday about the impact of climate change on small island nations facing rising sea levels, but did not support mandatory goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The statement issued during the summit highlighted the serious threat climate change poses to some Commonwealth countries, particularly small island states. It emphasized that the cost of not taking action against global warming would be higher than implementing preventive measures early on. However, the declaration from the Commonwealth summit did not include specific targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, leading Greenpeace Executive Director John Sauvan to criticize it as insufficient. Sauvan pointed out the lack of urgency in addressing the need to control emissions causing climate change, especially considering the disproportionate impact on the poorest Commonwealth members. The agreement reached at the Commonwealth summit in Kampala, while praised by Secretary-General Don McKinnon as a significant step forward, did not meet the expectations of many countries who were hoping for a stronger statement. Despite Britain's calls for a clear message and binding commitments from developed nations before the Bali environment conference, the Kampala declaration fell short of these demands. However, it did emphasize that developed countries should take the lead in reducing emissions and that efforts to address climate change should not hinder the sustainable economic development of developing countries. The upcoming Bali summit will focus on negotiating a successor to the Kyoto protocol, which aims to reduce global warming emissions but is set to expire in 2012. Kyoto excludes developing countries, such as India and China, from greenhouse gas reduction commitments. Canada's conservative government stated it would not agree to a deal in Kampala unless all countries were required to reduce emissions. The Commonwealth typically reaches consensus, and the vague nature of the declaration on Saturday may be due to the need to compromise between Canada's stance and the demands of developing nations, particularly island states. The Commonwealth Climate Change Action Plan called for a post-Kyoto agreement on reducing greenhouse gases but only mentioned a "long term aspirational global goal for emissions reduction that all countries would contribute to." Environmentalists strongly criticized similar non-binding language used at recent G8 and APEC summits. A British official stated that the statement achieved their goal of building momentum before Bali, but questioned whether CHOGM was the appropriate place to commit to binding targets with Bali approaching. Some participants believed Bali was the right platform for discussing commitments. Despite Australia's previous reluctance to address climate change, Labor Party leader Kevin Rudd announced after winning the general election that Australia would now sign the Kyoto Protocol. The previous government's refusal to ratify Kyoto had upset Pacific island nations, including Commonwealth members at risk of being submerged by rising sea levels. | 1 |
The upcoming US president will be faced with numerous foreign policy challenges, including ongoing wars, the global financial crisis, and the need to improve the country's international reputation. While Obama and McCain have focused on domestic issues, the new president will have to address a multitude of national security concerns once in office. Lindsay, who is currently affiliated with the University of Texas in Austin, noted that the incoming president-elect will be faced with a significant foreign policy agenda, including decisions that will have major implications for American security. Approximately ten days after the election, Bush will host a summit in Washington to address the global economic crisis and initiate talks with other world leaders on financial reforms. The next president, who will be inaugurated on Jan. 20, will be tasked with managing ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as the escalating campaign against al Qaeda militants along the border of Pakistan and Afghanistan. Preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and ensuring that North Korea follows through on its pledge to dismantle its nuclear weapons program are also critical issues. Both candidates have pledged to renew efforts towards peace in the Middle East and to provide unwavering support for Israel. Mark Lippert, a foreign policy adviser to Obama, stated that combating terrorism, addressing militants along the Afghan-Pakistan border, and apprehending or eliminating Osama bin Laden are crucial national security priorities. Obama has committed to ending the Iraq war and strengthening the presence of US troops in Afghanistan. Lippert emphasized that effectively addressing the security situation in Afghanistan and pursuing militants is interconnected with progress in political reconciliation in Iraq and the reduction of troops there. McCain also supports the deployment of more troops in Afghanistan and is against setting a timetable for withdrawal in Iraq, advocating for US troops to stay as long as necessary. Obama's openness to direct communication with US adversaries like Iran and Syria is a significant point of contention. Obama believes that the Bush administration's reluctance to engage with enemies has hindered diplomatic opportunities, while McCain criticizes Obama's proposal for high-level dialogue as being naive. McCain has also called for Russia to be expelled from the Group of Eight due to their conflict with Georgia in August, a move that Obama does not support. Despite both candidates condemning the Russian invasion, McCain has been more outspoken in his criticism. One shared foreign policy goal of Obama and McCain is to mend relationships with old allies, particularly European nations, which were strained during the Bush administration. Despite Obama's popularity overseas, it may not be a cure-all for challenges like getting Europe to increase troop contributions in Afghanistan. Strengthening European alliances could also help in dealing with Russia, according to Lippert. Obama has emphasized the importance of the transatlantic relationship in advancing interests related to Russia, nonproliferation, terrorism, climate change, energy, and democracy promotion. While McCain has been tougher on Russia and distanced himself from Bush's approach to diplomacy, promising a departure from "cowboy diplomacy." Randy Scheunemann, a key foreign policy adviser to McCain, dismissed the idea that McCain would be more likely to use military force than past US presidents, emphasizing McCain's understanding of the consequences of sending troops into combat. The upcoming economic summit on November 15 will include leaders from the G20, a group that comprises major industrialized nations and growing economies like China, Brazil, and India. It is uncertain whether the president-elect will attend, but both McCain and Obama have highlighted the significance of the US economy in shaping the country's global position. Obama is more careful in his approach to trade, but they both vow to act promptly to enhance the financial regulatory system. | 1 |
Additional cities experienced flooding and crop damage due to the severe weather moving northward. The Xinhua news agency reported economic losses of 1.22 billion yuan ($189 million) as a result. The provincial weather bureau raised the storm alert for four cities in Henan to the highest level, red. Tragically, 12 individuals lost their lives in the flooded subway in Zhengzhou, with eight people still missing in the province. In Anyang, more than 73,000 people were evacuated due to over 600 mm of rainfall since Monday. Xinhua reported that Xinxiang, a small city located north of Zhengzhou, experienced a record-breaking 812 mm of rainfall between Tuesday and Thursday. This resulted in seven medium-sized reservoirs overflowing and causing damage to nearby villages and towns. Over 470,000 people and 55,000 hectares of crops have been affected by the heavy rain, leading the local government to deploy a search and rescue team of over 76,000 individuals. In Hebei, two individuals lost their lives due to a tornado in Baoding. The tragic flooding of the Zhengzhou subway has prompted the government to demand immediate improvements in urban transit flood controls and emergency responses from local authorities. Media images depicted commuters standing in water up to their chests inside dark subway cars. One subway station was completely flooded and resembled a large swirling pool. The Ministry of Transport urged local authorities to promptly reassess and address any hidden dangers on rail transit. In a statement released on Thursday, the ministry emphasized the need for emergency actions like halting train operations, evacuating passengers, and shutting down stations during extreme weather conditions such as heavy storms. Zhengzhou received a staggering 617.1 mm (24.3 inches) of rainfall from Saturday to Tuesday, nearly matching the city's average annual precipitation of 640.8 mm (25.2 inches). There has been increased attention on the promptness of weather updates from local meteorological services. The provincial weather bureau stated that they had issued a report about the upcoming heavy rains two days in advance. Starting from Monday evening, meteorological departments at various levels have sent out 120 million text messages to mobile phone users to alert them about the storms, according to the Henan weather bureau. | 1 |
The talks concluded at 8:15 p.m. local time (GMT) after a last-minute dispute over the wording regarding the phase "down" or "out" in relation to coal usage. Despite mixed reviews, a global agreement was reached with the aim of maintaining hopes of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius and preventing catastrophic climate change. Kaveh Guilanpour, Vice President of International Strategies at the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, stated that the success of COP26 will only be determined in the future, with Glasgow serving as a test of whether promises on paper will be translated into action. At 7:40 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma appeared on the verge of tears as India's environment minister Bhupender Yadav halted the adoption process for the Glasgow pact by proposing new language that suggested governments should "phase down" coal use instead of phasing it out. Despite expressing disappointment, several countries agreed to still support the deal to prevent the negotiations from failing. Sharma apologized to the plenary for the handling of the process and became emotional. At 7:23 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma officially began the formal plenary by stating, "It is now decision time." At 7:04 p.m., a deal was confirmed by Chinese climate envoy Xie Zhenhua, according to China. When asked on the plenary floor if the Glasgow pact was going to pass, Xie Zhenhua gave Reuters the thumbs up and stated "we have a deal" through his translator. However, he did offer a critique. "The voice of developing nations has not been given adequate attention," he expressed through his translator. Samuel Adeoye Adejuwon, a technical adviser on Nigeria's team, stated that his country supports India in resisting stringent language directed at fossil fuels in the Glasgow agreement. He emphasized that the debate revolves around unique circumstances and that it is unreasonable to expect them to abandon their development process. Adejuwon mentioned that the US dialogue with China and India regarding coal is an effort to reach a compromise. At 6:42 p.m., attendees at the UN climate talks became anxious when representatives from the United States and the EU met with their counterparts from China and India to discuss the language surrounding coal phase-out in the deal. The meeting lasted around 30 minutes before they emerged. A member of the Indian delegation confirmed to Reuters that the meeting indicated last-minute negotiations were taking place as the UK conference hosts pushed for an agreement. Just before the meeting, US special envoy John Kerry was overheard by Reuters reminding his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua that they had agreed to phase out coal in the next 20 years. At 5:36 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma announces that the meeting will resume soon after country delegations complete their speeches. A vote on the deal is expected to take place once they reconvene. Prior to this, at 4:40 p.m., US special climate envoy John Kerry observed that not everyone was pleased with the draft deal presented at the UN talks in Glasgow, stating that in a successful negotiation, all parties should feel uncomfortable. After a number of small and island nations expressed their dissatisfaction with the draft agreement for not providing enough support, one official stated that it may be too late for their country. Another official from India also criticized the draft deal for asking developing countries to phase out coal and fossil fuel subsidies before addressing their development and poverty eradication goals. At 4:08 p.m., Swiss Environment Minister Simonetta Sommaruga expressed her country's dissatisfaction with the deal, particularly regarding global carbon market rules, but stated they would accept it nonetheless. She emphasized the general sense of unhappiness among attendees at the COP. Gabon's Minister of Water, Forests, Sea and Environment Lee White also expressed some reservations about the deal and stated he needed more reassurance from developed countries before leaving the COP in Glasgow. At 3:58 p.m., he remarked, "It's not perfect." The common sentiment expressed by poor and small island nations during the plenary discussions about the draft climate deal was that more support was needed from rich nations. Despite this, each of these nations stated that they would still support the deal. These countries had been advocating for additional financial assistance to help them transition to clean energy and recover from climate-related disasters. While Marshall Islands climate envoy Tina Stege acknowledged that the existing deal was not sufficient, she saw it as progress and pledged her support because she could not return home empty-handed. Tuvalu's climate envoy Seve Paeniu, holding a photo of his grandchildren, expressed his hope that the promise made in Glasgow would secure their future upon his return to the low-lying island nation. "That would be the greatest Christmas present I could give to them." At 3:44 p.m., EU climate chief Frans Timmermans received enthusiastic applause for his remarks to the plenary, urging countries to come together for the benefit of "our children, our grandchildren." He emphasized that they would not forgive us if we let them down. Timmermans began by warning that the conference could falter near the end if country delegations insisted on making new alterations to the texts. At 3:30 p.m., he made these statements. In a potentially encouraging development, Chinese negotiator Zhao Yingmin stated during the plenary that although the current draft of the deal is not perfect, his team does not plan to reopen it. Representatives from Tanzania and Guinea expressed disappointment that the draft did not provide sufficient financial assistance for poor, climate-vulnerable nations like theirs to address global warming issues. COP26 President Alok Sharma initiated an informal plenary at 3:12 p.m. to assess the latest proposals, emphasizing that the conference had reached a critical juncture for the planet and future generations. Despite remaining differences on the final agreement, Sharma indicated that negotiations were running out of time and an accord needed to be finalized by 2:40 p.m. Before the official plenary session was scheduled to begin, US special envoy John Kerry and his Chinese counterpart Xie Zhenhua were seen together, carefully reviewing a document line by line. Just a few days earlier, the two men had surprised the summit with a joint declaration in which China committed to increasing its efforts to combat climate change by reducing coal usage, limiting methane emissions, and preserving forests. At 2:30 p.m., negotiators gathered behind closed doors to address any remaining obstacles to reaching an agreement, leaving delegates from three countries feeling unsure and out of the loop. One negotiator expressed frustration, calling the situation chaotic. China's representative was not mentioned specifically. As he arrived at his country's offices, negotiator Zhao Yingmin stated that he had no new information to share. Meanwhile, representatives from Brazil were observed entering a meeting of the G77 group of developing countries. At 1:45 p.m., after an hour and 45 minutes, Sharma returned to the microphone to inform everyone that they could leave but must return at 2:30 p.m. for the official plenary session. The delay was necessary to give parties time to finalize their negotiations, he explained, emphasizing that an agreement would be reached later in the afternoon. At 1:06 p.m., COP26 President Alok Sharma attempted twice to persuade delegates from other countries to take their seats in the plenary room, where he had arrived promptly at noon. Despite his efforts, an hour later, the delegates remained standing, engaged in intense discussions on one side of the stage. US climate envoy John Kerry was seen circulating among the groups, actively engaging with attendees. By 12:30 p.m., delegates were eagerly awaiting updates on the negotiations, but were handling the delays with patience. Axel Michaelowa, an advisor to the Honduras delegation, stated that it is typical for the COP to run overtime, so it was no surprise. Views in the cafeteria were divided on whether the delays indicated a strong or weak final deal. Emily Wright from Save the Children International believed that the delay showed commitment to a deal that benefits everyone, while Naja Moretro from the Norwegian Church Aid Youth Organization thought the texts were becoming weaker in terms of clarity. Danish Climate Minister Dan Jorgensen expressed his support for language in the final deal that promotes a phase-out of coal as he entered the summit's plenary room at 12:02 p.m. He stated that it is important to recognize that the issue is not about criticizing countries dependent on fossil fuels, but rather acknowledging that some countries require assistance in transitioning away from coal. He suggested that the text should now include reference to a "just transition." At 11:35 a.m., Nellie Dokie, 37, has been commuting two hours each way to the conference center to work as a chef. She has been cooking meals for VIPs and delegates and finally ventured into the main conference area to see what was happening. Dokie resides in Glasgow, although she hails from Liberia. She expressed her desire to be involved in historical events, stating, "I played a minor role." At 11:20 a.m., US Special Climate Envoy John Kerry seemed to be in a jovial mood. He remarked that it was a lovely day in Scotland as he walked with his top negotiators Sue Biniaz, Jonathan Pershing, and Trigg Talley, with reporters following closely behind. It was uncertain whether his positive outlook was influenced by the progress of negotiations at the conference or the uncommonly sunny weather in Glasgow. The focus of activity had moved to "bilateral" meeting rooms spread throughout the conference venue over the past day. Delegates gathered in windowless rooms under tight security. They were examining the preliminary text in preparation for the noon stocktaking session. At 8:53 a.m., a group of Greenpeace employees were gathered in the COP26 conference halls, working on a new statement regarding the latest draft revisions. Spanish Energy and Environment Minister Teresa Ribera was observed hurrying from her delegation's office, while the UK COP26 Presidency released what many hope will be the final draft of the Glasgow agreement. Technical crews were dismantling equipment and removing it from meeting rooms as they continued to break down parts of the venue. At 8:21 a.m., following intense overnight discussions, delegates were ready for the unveiling of another draft agreement. The pavilions where countries displayed their climate-friendly initiatives have been taken down, but the coffee stands are still open. Civil society groups are carefully examining documents released in the early morning for hints about the final agreement. The UK conference hosts announced on Friday evening that there will be no deal reached that night. Alok Sharma, the UK summit president, stated that formal plenary meetings will be held in the afternoon on Saturday to finalize decisions and close the session. Delegations and the media were seen returning to their hotels for some rest before the upcoming long day. By 8:40 p.m., the COP26 conference halls were quiet, with small groups of negotiators, including around a dozen EU delegates, moving between meetings. According to Costa Rica's carbon markets negotiator Felipe De Leon Denegri, this "shuttle diplomacy" of moving between rooms is how most of the work is accomplished in the final hours of climate negotiations. However, this year, much of the communication is done through the messaging app WhatsApp, making the process quieter than usual. De Leon noted that in the 21st century, shuttle diplomacy is sometimes conducted through WhatsApp, which he finds unusual. He believes that the pandemic and the trend towards virtual work have led to an increase in exchanges using the Facebook-owned app. Tuvalu's Finance Minister Seve Paeniu, who leads the island nation's delegation, spent most of the previous night negotiating the section of the draft agreement related to "loss and damage". Countries like Tuvalu, facing the effects of climate change, are pushing for wealthy nations with high emissions to provide compensation. He mentioned that his team is in the process of urging the United States and Australia to support a separate fund for loss and damage. Overall, he emphasized the importance of reaching a strong collective agreement in Glasgow to maintain the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5C. He expressed concern over the lack of commitment from countries to reduce emissions to reach the 1.5 degree target and the insufficient focus on additional financing for adaptation. Former UK Labour Party leader Ed Miliband took a moment to praise Paeniu for a speech he delivered earlier. At 7:38 p.m., the delegation offices at the summit complex were mostly quiet. Two prominent negotiators from China were spotted in their office, while nearby, a duo of US negotiators walked down the hall with sandwiches. It was anticipated that the night would be lengthy due to numerous significant disagreements regarding increasing emissions cuts commitments, handling carbon markets, and providing funding for impoverished nations. | 1 |
The Maldives, known as a top tourist destination, saw a change in leadership as the man who is credited with bringing democracy to the islands stepped down amidst military pressure following a police mutiny. His party labeled it as a bloodless coup. The streets of the capital island, Male, were peaceful the day after police and opposition protesters took over the military headquarters and state TV station. This political upheaval did not affect the daily lives of Maldivians or the tourists who visit the luxury resorts on the desert islands. Former President Mohamed Nasheed resigned on Tuesday and was released from military custody. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik, his deputy, was sworn in by the speaker of the People's Majlis, or parliament. United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed hope that the transfer of power, deemed a constitutional measure to prevent further violence and instability, would lead to a peaceful resolution of the political crisis that has divided the country. Nasheed's directive to the military to arrest a judge, whom he accused of obstructing corruption cases against former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's government, sparked three weeks of opposition protests culminating in a police revolt on Tuesday. Ultimately, the same military personnel escorted Nasheed to his office where he was pressured to resign, according to a close aide's account to Reuters. Roberts, a 32-year old British citizen, stated that Nasheed was taken to his office, introduced to his cabinet, and then appeared on television to announce his resignation. Roberts mentioned that Nasheed was pressured by the military to step down and could have resisted, but chose not to resort to violence. Amnesty International advised the new government to refrain from targeting individuals based on their political beliefs, as there were concerns about potential persecution of Nasheed's supporters and rumors that his close associates might be prevented from leaving the country. The incoming president, Waheed, was anticipated to lead a coalition national unity government until the presidential election in October 2013. He stated that labeling the change in leadership as a coup was incorrect and reassured that tourists were not in danger. Tourism plays a significant role in the Maldives' economy, accounting for approximately two-thirds of its GDP of around $1 billion. Despite some travel advisories, such as from Britain, advising against travel to Male, the majority of the Maldives' nearly 1 million annual visitors do not actually visit the capital. Instead, they are transported directly from the airport island to their resorts by speedboat or seaplane. Flights arriving on Wednesday were running as usual. Opposition parties with different views came together to criticize Nasheed amid the constitutional crisis and protests. They have started using harsh language to question his Islamic beliefs in the predominantly Sunni Muslim country. Analyst N. Sathiya Moorthy, in an article in The Hindu newspaper, noted that while Nasheed will be remembered as the Maldives' first democratically elected president, he will also be remembered for the political deadlocks he created. However, Moorthy praised Nasheed for his commitment to democratic principles by gracefully stepping down from office instead of allowing the situation to escalate into a political or military conflict. During the time period before Nasheed's presidency, the state broadcaster MNBC was renamed TV Maldives and featured numerous interviews with opposition figures. This name change occurred during the 30-year rule of former president Gayoom, who was known for his authoritarian leadership style. Nasheed, who had faced numerous arrests while fighting for democracy against Gayoom, eventually defeated him in a 2008 election - the first multi-party democratic election in the history of Maldives. Nasheed also gained recognition for his strong advocacy on climate change and the rising sea levels that pose a threat to the low-lying nation. | 1 |
One popular choice in the upcoming election is President Emmanuel Macron, 44, who has decided to wait until close to the March deadline to announce his candidacy, keeping his opponents guessing. Macron, comfortable in his centrist position, has observed the right and extreme-right parties attacking each other. Immigration and security have become key issues, overshadowing topics like climate change and France's growing debt from the coronavirus crisis. Far-right candidate Éric Zemmour has gained attention for his anti-immigrant views, claiming to be the only one protecting French civilization from Islam and American political correctness. Similar to former President Donald Trump, Zemmour relies on continuous provocation to remain in the spotlight, as seen in his recent conversation with Trump. Despite this, Macron maintains a significant lead in polls, with around 25% of the vote projected for the first round of the election on April 10th. Zemmour and two other right-wing candidates are polling in the 12%-18% range. On the other hand, left-wing parties are divided and currently appear to be mere onlookers for the first time since the establishment of the Fifth Republic in 1958. While France typically leans towards the right, this time it has taken a sudden shift. Pascal Bruckner, a writer and political philosopher, stated that the left lost support from the popular classes, who turned to the far right due to the left's lack of response on immigration and Islam. Macron, seen as unpredictable, is now facing off against the right. Macron, who is perceived to have successfully managed the COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges, is currently in a strong position. The economy grew by 7% in the last quarter, with unemployment at a low 7.4% in France. It is likely that COVID-19 measures, such as mask requirements in public places, will be lifted before the election, which would hold significant symbolic importance. It is challenging to attack Macron because he represents both the remaining aspects of social democracy in France and right-wing policies, such as his strong stance against "Islamist separatism." Some criticize Macron for shifting towards the right, while others praise his flexibility. The upcoming election has turned into a battle between right-wing candidates for a chance to face Macron in the runoff. Marine Le Pen has become a vocal critic of Zemmour, accusing him of supporting Nazis and trying to destroy her party. Zemmour, known for his extreme belief that Islam is not compatible with France, has criticized Macron for trying to differentiate between extremist Islamism and the religion itself. Zemmour has also criticized Macron for not accepting the idea of the "great replacement," a racist theory that suggests white Christian populations are intentionally being replaced by nonwhite immigrants. Despite Zemmour's ability to break taboos and attract conservative voters, the president remains confident in his chances against both Le Pen and Zemmour in the upcoming election. While France is facing economic struggles and pandemic fatigue, a disruptive choice like voting for Trump or Brexit would be unexpected. Some voters, like retiree Paulette Brémond, are undecided between Macron and Zemmour. She expressed concern about the immigration issue and is waiting to hear what Mr. Macron has to say about it. She believes Macron may not be as extreme as Zemmour, but if he seems effective, she may vote for him again. She feels like the campaign has not really begun until Macron officially declares his candidacy, which is a common feeling in France where political maneuvering can seem like a show. The president, however, is focused on important matters of state such as his diplomatic efforts to prevent a war in Ukraine and ending the French anti-terrorist campaign in Mali. If Mali has been a noticeable failure, though one that is unlikely to change many voters' minds, the Ukraine crisis has allowed Macron to appear as Europe's leader in seeking constructive engagement with Russia, as long as it does not result in war. Zemmour and Le Pen, who together make up about 30% of the vote, openly admire Putin. A member of Macron's potential reelection team, speaking anonymously as per government protocol, expressed more concern about a potential runoff against Valérie Pécresse, the centre-right Republican candidate, than facing Le Pen or Zemmour in the second round. Pécresse, who shares an educational background with Macron and has served competently as president of France's most populous region for two terms, is a centrist by nature. She may attract centre-left and left-wing voters who see Macron as a betrayer in the second round. However, Pécresse's chances may have been damaged by a poor performance in her first major campaign speech in Paris this month, although not necessarily beyond repair. One recent poll showed Pécresse with 12% of the vote, a decrease from 19% in December. Pécresse has shifted towards the right due to the prevailing climate in France, which has been heavily impacted by Islamist terrorism. She referenced "the great replacement" in her campaign speech and defended herself against criticism for using language associated with the extreme right. Pécresse expressed her reluctance to participate in a Macron-Zemmour showdown, stating that voting for Le Pen or Zemmour ultimately supports Macron. Macron's first term focused on modernizing the French state, including changes to labor laws, eliminating the wealth tax, and implementing measures to attract foreign investment and stimulate the economy. Then there was a rebellion in the form of the Yellow Vest movement, which opposed increasing inequality and wealthy financiers like Macron who were seen as ignorant of widespread social suffering. Shortly after that subsided, the coronavirus pandemic hit, causing the president to shift suddenly from a supporter of free-market reforms to a proponent of state intervention by proclaiming, "We have nationalized salaries." Macron did not hesitate to make this declaration. The consequences of these actions will eventually be significant, but for now, Macron, known for his habit of frequently changing his stance, appears to be enjoying the success of managing the pandemic. "He was fortunate," stated a member of his campaign team. "The COVID pandemic prevented him from having to implement more unpopular reforms." There are still unpredictable events that could occur, such as a European war, a new strain of the virus, a major terrorist attack, or a resurgence of social unrest. However, at the moment, Macron's strategy of staying above the fray and waiting it out appears to be successful. "Unless a major disaster occurs, I can't see how Mr. Macron won't be reelected," Bruckner commented. Nevertheless, the true campaign will only begin once the current leader fully engages in the tumultuous political arena. | 1 |
Something occurred last year that caused a change in the job market. Signs started appearing in windows along the route Haner took to work, indicating that businesses like McDonald's, Walgreens, and Taco Bell were all looking to hire new employees. It was clear that there was a high demand for workers in Midland, Michigan. Haner started to question why work couldn't be centered around individuals like himself. He found it ridiculous and decided to leave his job at Applebee's to take a remote sales position at a tech company. He was willing to take a chance, knowing he could easily find another job if things didn't work out. Over 40 million people left their jobs in various industries last year, sparking what was termed the Great Resignation, as well as other phrases like the Great Renegotiation, the Great Reshuffle, and the Great Rethink. Despite leaving their jobs, people were not giving up on working altogether. They still needed to earn income. Many of the financial assistance programs from the pandemic ended in the fall, leading to a decrease in savings rates to 6.4% by January, the lowest in nine years. However, workers discovered that they could pursue better opportunities for earning a living, such as higher pay and stable hours. Flexibility was a key factor for employees, as they were starting to see more support from their employers. Applebee's emphasized the importance of safety for both workers and guests, with the chief operations officer stating that aggressive behavior would not be tolerated. Workers across the nation were finding more opportunities and were empowered to reject the mistreatment they had previously endured from strict supervisors or abusive customers. In order to keep businesses operational, employers had to begin listening to their employees. According to Nick Bunker, director of economic research for North America at Indeed's hiring lab, people saw the abundance of job opportunities as a way to pay their bills rather than a rejection of work. As vaccines and stimulus money became available, businesses faced a shortage of workers and employees used this opportunity to reevaluate their expectations from their employers. This did not result in millions permanently disconnecting from work and getting rid of their laptops. This meant that low-wage workers were leaving their jobs and going to other businesses that were hiring. It also meant that white-collar workers, influenced by the competitive job market, were asserting their preferences for how and where they work. Tim Ryan, US chair of PwC, stated that their employees now have more control, as PwC is undergoing a three-year transition to allow for more flexible work options, including a large portion of the workforce going permanently remote. This transition is a significant investment of $2.4 billion, with Ryan comparing it to a scene from the 2003 movie "Pirates of the Caribbean." Ryan continued by referencing Capt. Hector Barbossa's dialogue about ghost stories, emphasizing the current transformation of the workplace that many people are unaware of. Data from the Bureau of Labour Statistics and the census reveals that many of last year's job quitters are actually job swappers, particularly in the leisure, hospitality, and retail industries. The rate of workers quitting in leisure and hospitality has risen to nearly 6% from 4% since the start of the pandemic. In the retail sector, the quitting rate increased to almost 5% from 3.5%. While white-collar employers continued to have difficulty hiring, they experienced a decrease in resignations. In finance, the quitting rate dropped at the beginning of the pandemic and is now slightly below 2%, while in media and technology it remained relatively stable, also below 2%. Workers who changed jobs often received higher pay, with wages growing by nearly 10% in leisure and hospitality and over 7% in retail over the past year. Workers were able to extend their shift hours, with fewer people working part-time involuntarily. While a small number of individuals left the workforce, mostly older men retiring before age 65, some are now returning to work. The retirement of baby boomers and the smaller number of young people entering the workforce has led to a tighter labor supply. Overall, people are still actively working due to financial necessity. Instead of giving up, many are seeking new jobs with higher pay and more hours. Workers have not changed their feelings about work, but rather their expectations have changed. Rebecca Givan, an associate professor of labour studies at Rutgers, stated that most people work because they need to, not because they want to. Now, workers are demanding more from their bosses and holding them accountable. Porsha Sharon, 28, still remembers the rude behavior she experienced from customers while working at Buddy's Pizza in Troy, Michigan. For example, one customer became upset when asked which kind of pizza they wanted, despite the extensive menu available. “Are you thick?” Sharon was ridiculed by other customers for wearing a mask. After enduring eight-hour shifts that left her with burning pain in her swollen feet, she received an offer in March to work as an administrative assistant at a law firm, a job she had previously done temporarily in college. Last month, she decided to quit her job at the pizzeria. Sharon remarked, "The previous generation used to stay in miserable jobs because that was expected of them. We are different, and I appreciate that about us." Katy Dean, the chief operating officer of Buddy's Pizza in Michigan, expressed that she and her colleagues are feeling overwhelmed and physically unwell due to being overworked by demanding customers. She noted that abusive customers are a difficult aspect of the current food service industry. Dean stated that they have empowered managers to ask disrespectful guests to leave the restaurant. This situation has been seen as a discouraging one for career advancement, but many workers have used their frustration as motivation to demand better working conditions. This includes calls for promotions, more stable hours, sick leave, bereavement leave, maternity leave, retirement plans, safety measures, and vacation time. A viral TikTok featured a sign outside of McDonald's that read "No one wants to work anymore," highlighting the widespread dissatisfaction among workers. Former Secretary of Labor Robert Reich responded by stating that no one wants to be taken advantage of anymore. Last year, when millions of people decided to quit their jobs, the impact was felt beyond just the companies and industries involved. While white-collar workers were not quitting their jobs as quickly as those in hospitality and retail, they were still making bold demands of their employers. With low unemployment rates and fierce competition for talent, employees are realizing their bargaining power and are using it, especially when it comes to flexibility. The closure of offices resulted in employees feeling a sense of independence that they were not ready to give up. Even some high-ranking executives on Wall Street acknowledged that traditional practices were no longer sustainable. Companies like Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and BNY Mellon informed their bankers that their return to the office would be a mix of remote and in-person work, not requiring them to commute five days a week. Only 8% of Manhattan office employees have returned to the office full-time, according to recent data. Lyssa Walker White, 38, shared that her quality of life greatly improved during the shutdown, leading her to switch jobs when her old employer expected her to come back to the office. Some employers brought their employees back to the office for part of the week, despite facing resistance. Apple, for instance, mandated a return to the office three days a week, prompting workers to express strong opposition in an open letter. The workers urged the company to stop dictating their office attendance and allow them to choose the optimal work arrangement for themselves. Apple did not provide a response and has maintained its hybrid return-to-office policy. In other white-collar workplaces, newly established unions advocated for the issue of remote work. The Nonprofit Professional Employees Union, for instance, saw an increase in its membership from 12 organizations and 300 workers in 2018 to around 50 organizations and 1,300 workers this year. One organization within the union successfully negotiated for managers to cover travel expenses for employees who had to commute. Another organization convinced management to provide written justification for any employee required to return to the office. At a recent industry conference, Jessica Kriegel, who heads the people and culture department at Experience.com, a technology company, exchanged stories with fellow human resources colleagues about dealing with demands from a more empowered staff. There were stories of employees requesting salary increases four times the size of their current pay. There were also stories of company meetings that used to be exclusive retreats in Napa, California, but now included junior staff in town hall settings. Kriegel mentioned how she had given a significant raise to a top performer, and witnessed another employee advance through three promotions in a year, going from a contributor to a director to a vice president. Kriegel noted that some employees were requesting title changes without any financial promotion just to update their LinkedIn profiles. The human resources director finds it surprising when colleagues mention that employees are being overworked, as she sees her staff actively seeking out the type of work they want to do. She said that people are starting to feel more confident and less fearful, with a focus on great ambition rather than being against ambition. For example, Haner, who used to work at Applebee's, recently received a significant 16% raise at his new job, which pays him much more per hour than his previous job. He speaks highly of the meaningful conversations he has with his manager at his new job, and was pleasantly surprised when he was granted bereavement leave for his grandfather's funeral, something he believes would not have been allowed at Applebee's. Even though work is still work, the feeling of dread that used to accompany his morning alarm has been replaced by a new feeling: "They show us respect." | 1 |
China is getting ready to implement its first strategy to combat climate change, as stated by a senior policy adviser. The country is becoming increasingly concerned about global warming despite its focus on economic growth. Zou Ji, a climate policy expert at the People's University of China in Beijing, mentioned that the national plan will likely establish broad objectives for reducing emissions and addressing changing weather patterns. After several years of preparation and negotiations, the plan is expected to be unveiled this year. Zou emphasized that China is recognizing the growing international concern over greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on global temperatures and climate. He noted that the Chinese government is increasingly prioritizing this issue. "When it is approved and released, it will mark China's inaugural official and comprehensive document on climate change." A recent report from a U.N. panel of scientists warned that human activities are likely the cause of global warming. The group of experts provided a projected temperature increase of 1.8 to 4.0 Celsius (3.2 to 7.8 Fahrenheit) in the 21st century, leading to more droughts, heatwaves, and rising sea levels that could persist for over a millennium even with a cap on greenhouse gas emissions. China is rapidly advancing towards potentially becoming the world's third-largest economy by 2008, surpassing Germany and trailing only Japan and the United States. It is anticipated to become the top emitter of greenhouse gases by 2009, surpassing the United States, as per the International Energy Agency's prediction. Zou, who has been a member of the Chinese delegation to international climate talks since 2000, stated that Beijing's public response to the panel's findings has been subdued, but they are closely monitoring the numerous warnings. Pan Yue, a vice minister of China's State Environmental Protection Administration, acknowledged that wealthy countries bear the most responsibility for reducing emissions, but assured that China would also make contributions. He emphasized that China, as a responsible major power, will not shirk its duties in this regard. Zou mentioned that the program is currently awaiting approval from China's State Council after being reviewed by multiple ministries and agencies, but its release may be delayed due to preparations for an upcoming Communist Party congress. Alan Dupont, an expert on climate change and security at the University of Sydney, explains that President Hu Jintao faces the challenge of balancing economic growth and job creation with reducing fossil fuel use and greenhouse gas emissions in order to secure the stability and future of China. Despite the government's secretive nature, there are indications that Beijing is starting to realize the importance of addressing climate change in achieving its goals of prosperity, stability, and global influence. Zou stated that climate experts are getting ready to present information on global warming to China's top leaders. This will be the first time that one of their usual study sessions will focus on climate change, indicating that the issue is gaining importance in the political arena. | 1 |
The Small Island States group stated that more than half of the countries at the 192-nation UN climate talks in Copenhagen are in favor of stricter goals for limiting global warming compared to those preferred by wealthy nations. The group, which is concerned about the threat of rising sea levels, criticized the exclusion of many island states from a 5-meter globe displayed at the conference center. Dessima Williams, who leads the alliance of Small Island States, mentioned that over 100 nations have now committed to limiting temperature increases to 1.5 Celsius above pre-industrial levels, an increase from 86 nations in August. Williams emphasized that a significant portion of the United Nations is pushing for ambitious and precise targets at the December 7-18 meeting to establish a new treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol. The least developed nations, primarily in Africa, and small island states are all in support of the 1.5 Celsius goal, which would necessitate rich nations reducing their greenhouse gas emissions by at least 45 percent from 1990 levels by 2020. Any agreement reached in Copenhagen must be approved by all parties involved. The main challenges to reaching a deal in Copenhagen include determining the extent of greenhouse gas reductions by wealthy countries and the amount of financial assistance offered to developing nations. A majority of developed nations and key emerging economies, such as China and India, support the goal of limiting temperature increases to no more than 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Current temperatures have already increased by 0.7 degrees Celsius and are projected to rise further. Williams emphasized the urgent need for action on climate change, stating that AOSIS is advocating for a legally binding treaty to come out of Copenhagen rather than a non-binding political agreement favored by some developed nations. Despite the current warming trend, many islands are experiencing severe consequences such as significant damage, submersion under the sea, and depletion of fresh water supplies. Rising temperatures are also causing damage to coral reefs. Any potential divides within the developing nations' group over a proposal by Tuvalu for strong, legally binding agreements from Copenhagen were downplayed. While AOSIS members generally support Tuvalu's proposal, they are still in the process of establishing a unified stance. China and India are in favor of legally binding reductions in greenhouse gases for wealthy nations under the Kyoto Protocol, but they advocate for less strict obligations for poorer countries. Barry Coates, a representative for Oxfam, compared a political declaration from Copenhagen that lacks legal binding to a toothless shark. Antonio Lima, vice chair of AOSIS from Cape Verde, likened climate change to a looming disaster for the poor, similar to the volcanic eruption of Mount Vesuvius that buried Pompeii 2,000 years ago. Lima emphasized that now we are aware of the impending catastrophe, referring to it as the "planet Pompeii." | 1 |
During a recent climate protest event in Dhaka, Khalidi discussed the impact of people power in worldwide demonstrations. He pointed out the similarities between Gandhi and Bangabandhu in leading nonviolent movements against oppressive forces. Gandhi faced indirect violence post-1947 in India, while Bangabandhu encountered brutal military power from the Pakistani army in response to his peaceful protests. The resistance that followed, in various forms, led to victories for both of our heroes. Khalidi suggests that the ongoing climate protests organized by young activists worldwide show the influence of pioneering leaders like Gandhi and Bangabandhu. The recent #ShutdownDC protests brought traffic to a standstill in the US capital without violence, demonstrating the urgent need to address climate change. Khalidi emphasizes the protesters' call for action against the devastating impact of climate change on the planet and its inhabitants. Gandhi and Bangabandhu's work for fair and safe societies continues to inspire the fight for environmental justice. Khalidi mentioned that these climate protesters share a common goal during a seminar on the founding fathers of India and Bangladesh, which was organized by the Gandhi Ashram Trust to honor their birth anniversaries. The event at the National Museum in Shahbagh was attended by various dignitaries, including Agriculture Minister Dr Mohammed Abdur Razzaque, former minister Narayon Chandra Chanda, Indian High Commissioner Riva Ganguly Das, and Gandhi Ashram Trust’s Chairman Swadesh Roy. Razzaque spoke about the lives of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu, highlighting how they influenced the issues of their era. In the times of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu, religion had a significant impact on politics, but they never engaged in politics that were based on religion, as stated by the agriculture minister. Both leaders understood that religion should not be exploited for political gain. Bangabandhu was firm in his belief that religion should not be used in politics, a sentiment shared by Gandhi who considered those who used religion for political purposes as enemies of the people. The minister also highlighted the founding of the Awami Muslim League, which later removed the word "Muslim" from its name after breaking away from the Muslim League. At that time, the Muslim League was seen as synonymous with religion. Going against the Muslim League was considered going against religion. Bangabandhu took brave actions in opposition to the Muslim League, as stated by Razzaque, a member of the Awami League's presidium. The minister mentioned that Gandhi's words and tactics remain relevant today. Through his movement against the powerful British forces, Gandhi demonstrated the effectiveness of nonviolence and non-cooperation. High Commissioner Riva Das emphasized the importance of participation and inspiration in nonviolent resistance, stating that it is more effective. She highlighted Mahatma Gandhi's belief that strength comes from righteousness, power from truth, and victory from moral courage. Das pointed out that history shows that violence only begets more violence, leading to a cycle of hatred and revenge. She also mentioned Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King Jr as examples of leaders who achieved great things through nonviolence. Das encouraged everyone to embody the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu in their daily lives, rather than confining them to specific events. During a discussion organized to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, former minister Narayon Chandra Chanda urged the youth of Bangladesh to embrace the spirit of the Liberation War while progressing towards development. He emphasized the importance of honoring the sacrifices made by Bangabandhu and the freedom fighters by working towards creating a multicultural nation that celebrates diversity. Narayon highlighted that both Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu were steadfast in their commitment to advocating for the rights of the people through nonviolent means, and they upheld these principles in their personal lives as well. Despite facing allegations of corruption, Bangabandhu's integrity remained unblemished as he never wavered from his ideals. Professor Muntasir Mamun, a history professor at Dhaka University, spoke at a discussion organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust at the Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium of Bangladesh National Museum on Thursday to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. In his speech, Professor Mamun highlighted Gandhi's religious piety and his ability to keep politics separate from religion. He also referenced intelligence reports on Bangabandhu, which are being published as a book, stating that no evidence suggests Bangabandhu used religion in politics. Professor Mamun criticized the ruling party's use of religion in politics, even after Bangabandhu's death, including by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League. Journalist Swadesh Roy encouraged youth to follow the example set by the two great leaders in order to address global issues. Raha Naba Kumar, the Trust's Director, moderated the seminar and emphasized that both Gandhi and Bangabandhu led their countries' fights for freedom by utilizing their networking skills and ability to connect with people. Khalidi stated that the impact of these leaders extends beyond their lifetimes and their stories are still relevant in addressing contemporary injustices worldwide. He also noted that it is troubling that the wealthy and powerful individuals are often the main contributors to climate issues. The primary polluters are the advanced economies, highly mechanized societies capable of causing rapid destruction multiple times over, as stated by Khalidi. Both Mahatma Gandhi and Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman fought against the powerful during their lifetimes, teaching the world how to overcome them. It is believed that even in the afterlife, they continue to make a positive impact. At an event organized by Gandhi Ashram Trust to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the 100th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, bdnews24.com Editor-in-Chief Toufique Imrose Khalidi highlighted the significant financial burden faced by Bangladeshi households due to climate change. A British think tank revealed that households in Bangladesh are spending nearly Tk 158 billion annually on repairing damages caused by climate change and implementing preventive measures. Khalidi emphasized that this amount is significantly higher than the international aid received by Bangladesh and the government's own expenditure on climate change. As a result, rural families are being forced to redirect their resources towards combating the impacts of climate change, often resorting to borrowing from informal sources at high interest rates and falling deeper into poverty. The report comes from the International Institute for Environment and Development. Khalidi stated that Gandhi and Bangabandhu would have spoken up to help these families, but their influence continues even though they are no longer alive. For example, Bangabandhu's leadership from afar garnered international support despite resistance from powerful nations during Bangladesh's struggle in 1971. | 1 |
A fresh set of UN climate discussions will begin on Monday with nearly 200 countries gathering in Mexico in the hopes of reaching an agreement on key issues that divide wealthy and developing nations. The two-week conference in Cancun will focus on securing funds and strategies to protect rainforests and prepare for a warmer planet. Additionally, efforts will be made to formalize current targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This event is not expected to generate as much excitement as last year's Copenhagen summit, which aimed to establish a new climate agreement but ultimately resulted in a non-binding deal that was rejected by some developing countries. The ongoing UN negotiations have highlighted tensions between the top two emitters, the United States and China, as the US calls for China to reduce emissions, similar to pressure on trade and human rights issues. Mexican President Felipe Calderon emphasized the economic benefits of addressing climate change on the eve of the talks, in an effort to rebuild trust following the previous summit. He argued that the perceived conflict between environmental protection and poverty alleviation, or between addressing climate change and promoting economic growth, is not real. Calderon highlighted the importance of renewable energy by unveiling a wind turbine to power the conference hotel. He stated that the discussions would primarily focus on preparing for a warmer world, which is a significant concern for less affluent nations. However, his emphasis on adaptation instead of stricter emissions commitments, particularly from developing countries, unsettled European Union negotiators. "We will be searching for a limited number of decisions in Cancun. Our goal is to establish a path forward," said Artur Runge-Metzger, a senior EU negotiator, on Sunday. Peter Wittoeck, a senior negotiator from Belgium, which currently holds the rotating EU presidency, stated, "We can see the beginnings of a compromise." The main objective of the negotiations is to reach a more stringent climate agreement to replace the Kyoto Protocol, which will expire in 2012, in order to intensify efforts to combat global warming. Studies conducted on Sunday indicated that in the worst-case scenario of climate change, global temperatures could rise by 4 degrees Celsius (7.2F) by the 2060s, requiring an annual investment of $270 billion to mitigate rising sea levels. | 1 |
Vice President-elect Kamala Harris is expected to bring unique attributes to her leadership, according to Mahuta, the first woman representing the foreign affairs portfolio in New Zealand. Mahuta expressed her optimism for collaboration between their respective countries and hoped for shared interests. The excitement surrounding Harris reflects a global desire for a shift away from right-wing populism seen in leaders like Jair Bolsonaro and Victor Orban. New Zealand, led by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, is seen as a promising alternative model of government that emphasizes inclusion and competence, especially after Ardern's landslide reelection. Ardern and her team are now facing heightened expectations after their success in handling COVID-19. Despite three years of leading a coalition government with few notable policy achievements, Labour now has the votes and diversity to push through their agenda. Their majority includes mostly women, New Zealand's first African descent member, and a significant representation of LGBTQ+, Pacific island, and Maori members in Parliament. This Parliament is the most diverse in New Zealand's history, representing the country's demographics and its connection to the Pacific islands. Richard Shaw, a politics professor at Massey University in Palmerston North, described it as a significant development. Prime Minister Ardern's new executive council includes a mix of familiar supporters, with Grant Robertson becoming the first openly gay lawmaker to serve as deputy prime minister. She also selected individuals of Maori and Pacific island heritage for key positions. Mahuta, 50, was a surprising addition to Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's diverse cabinet, bringing a reputation as a fair mediator. She joined Parliament at 26 with a master's degree in social anthropology, having previously worked as a researcher for her Tainui tribe during historic treaty negotiations with the government. Her father led the negotiations and her aunt was the Maori queen. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand addressed the United Nations General Assembly in Manhattan on September 27, 2018. Nanaia Mahuta, the country's new foreign minister, is known for being an honest broker and has joined Ardern's diverse cabinet. Despite her reputation, Mahuta prefers to focus on briefing papers rather than seeking the spotlight, displaying a no-nonsense and measured approach. She was known for being honest as she transitioned through different positions. She handled negotiations between her tribe and the government on water rights as an associate environment minister. As a local government minister, she resolved disputes on various issues. In her role as customs minister, she collaborated with exporters and facilitated trade agreements with countries like Japan. In her new position, she is expected to focus on organizing safe tourism during COVID-19 in the region, as well as expanding economic ties with other Pacific Island nations and Australia. David Cunliffe, a former Labour Party leader who collaborated with Mahuta for almost twenty years, praised her promotion to foreign affairs as a wise decision. He mentioned that she is someone who works towards progress without seeking personal fame, and that her dedication has finally been acknowledged. In an interview on Thursday, Mahuta revealed that she had not actively pursued the foreign affairs role, although it was something she had considered. She was taken aback by the offer but eagerly accepted the opportunity to enhance New Zealand's global standing and collaborate closely with Pacific Island nations. The region has gained more attention in recent years due to China's growing influence and investments. US officials believe that Mahuta and her team, including defence minister Peeni Henare, will be embraced as cultural equals and a strong counterbalance to Beijing in the region. Mahuta's promotion is being celebrated within the Maori community, despite some old cultural tensions being revived. When Mahuta, the first woman in Parliament to display a moko kauae (a facial tattoo), was promoted in foreign affairs, some criticized her tattoo as inappropriate for a diplomat. However, many New Zealanders supported Mahuta, viewing her promotion as a victory for diversity, history, and politics. Mahuta, a prominent member of the Maori King Movement, has been appointed to New Zealand's foreign ministry, showcasing the progress the country has made since the 19th-century resistance movement against the government. However, government appointments are just the beginning, as Ardern's team faces various domestic and international challenges such as climate change, economic struggles, and housing affordability issues. According to Oliver Hartwich, executive director of the New Zealand Institute, Ardern must take bold steps such as reforming education and changing tax structures to address these issues effectively. "He stated that they are unwilling to take risks and make necessary changes. Many promises are made but not much is actually followed through," said Cunliffe, the former leader of the Labour Party. He emphasized the importance for both Ardern and President-elect Joe Biden to be transformative leaders while also winning over skeptics. Cunliffe believes that the only way to defeat populism is by delivering progressive results that benefit both supporters and critics. He added that simply winning at the ballot box is not enough, and that addressing the underlying causes of populism is crucial in preventing its resurgence in the future. Mahuta agreed with Cunliffe's viewpoint. She expressed her desire for ideas on how to redefine prosperity to be adopted from the Indigenous community, which prioritizes values such as caring for people and protecting the environment. She acknowledged that economic inequality is a major obstacle for many countries and emphasized the need to innovate and move away from traditional approaches. | 1 |
With polls indicating that Scott Morrison's conservative coalition is likely to lose the May 21 election, the coalition is emphasizing its national security credentials, particularly its tough stance on China. Morrison expressed concern about Chinese government influence in Australia, citing previous instances of foreign interference. This was in response to a question about a statement by Home Affairs Minister Karen Andrews regarding China's timing of revealing its recent deal with the Solomons as potential interference in Australia's election. China has denied any targeting of third parties and called on Australia to respect their sovereignty and decisions. The announcement of the security agreement with the Pacific nation raised concerns about the possibility of a Chinese military presence close to Australian shores, putting a spotlight on the national security efforts of Morrison's coalition. Following criticism from Australia's opposition Labor party, Morrison's government has responded by emphasizing measures such as a ban on foreign political donations and a register of foreign representatives to address concerns about Chinese interference. Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare of the Solomon Islands also stated that his country would not engage in militarization in the Pacific, signing the China deal as a security pact with Australia was deemed insufficient. | 1 |
Even though Ukraine successfully conducted a peaceful presidential election recently, the situation in the eastern region close to the Russian border remains unstable, with armed groups attacking Ukrainian government forces and occupying state buildings. The G7 stated that they are prepared to increase targeted sanctions and consider additional restrictive measures against Russia if necessary. German Chancellor Angela Merkel emphasized the need for Western powers to monitor Russia's actions to stabilize the situation, following the annexation of Crimea in March. Merkel warned that if progress is not made in resolving issues in Ukraine, heavy sanctions could be imposed. Despite minor sanctions already in place, further actions were threatened if the May 25 elections were disrupted. With the elections going smoothly, some believe that Russia may be more cooperative, reducing the likelihood of additional sanctions. However, the statement released on Wednesday indicates that the West is still not satisfied with President Vladimir Putin's efforts to reduce tensions. Russia denies involvement in the unrest in eastern Ukraine, where pro-Moscow militias have taken control of buildings, attacked Ukrainian forces, and declared independence. Despite being excluded from the G7 summit, Putin will meet with Merkel, Hollande, and Cameron at a D-Day event in France. The focus of the G7 summit will include discussions on economics, trade, and energy security, particularly in Europe where Russia supplies a significant amount of oil and gas. The leaders will emphasize the importance of ensuring the security of energy supplies and condemn the use of energy as a political tool. The crisis in Ukraine highlights the importance of prioritizing energy security and the need to significantly change our approach to diversifying energy sources. The economic discussions among G7 members, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Britain, Japan, and Italy, are not expected to introduce new ideas but instead emphasize the importance of sustaining economic recovery and implementing stricter regulations to avoid future banking sector issues. The leaders will also reiterate their commitment to completing financial reforms this year, including addressing the issue of "too-big-to-fail" banks. | 1 |
The euro and European stocks rose on Wednesday due to a positive German business sentiment report, while ongoing concerns about the US economy kept the dollar weak. This led to increased interest in commodities like oil and gold, as global demand remains strong despite uncertainties in the US. German corporate sentiment improved in March, according to the Ifo institute, which has helped boost optimism about the global economy. "It supports the idea that Germany is moving away from the euro zone as a whole," she stated, noting that it also indicates the ECB will not be lowering rates in the near future. The Ifo economic research institute reported an increase in its business climate index to 104.8 from 104.1 in February, which helped to reduce investors' flight to safety and decrease demand for safe-haven euro zone government bonds. This news came after reports of a decrease in US consumer confidence and a record drop in home values in January, leading to concerns about Americans spending less. The FTSEurofirst 300 index initially dropped but later recovered slightly, while Germany's DAX remained steady and London's FTSE 100 index decreased by 0.3 percent. Swiss mining company Xtrata experienced a significant decline of approximately 9 percent following the breakdown of takeover discussions with the world's largest iron ore miner Vale. Just the day before, European stocks had increased by about 3 percent, led by banks, after JPMorgan significantly raised its bid to acquire rival Bear Stearns, alleviating concerns within a sector impacted by the credit crunch. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei closed with a 0.3 percent decrease, while MSCI's evaluation of other Asian stock markets showed a 0.6 percent increase. The MSCI world equity index saw a slight 0.2 percent rise. The dollar showed weakness against a range of major currencies, reflecting ongoing worries about the state of the US economy. The dollar index decreased by 0.6 percent, with the euro gaining half a US cent following the Ifo report, reaching approximately $1.5646. The 10-year Bund yield remained relatively stable at 3.872 percent, while the 10-year yield for US Treasuries dropped by 2.4 basis points to 3.517 percent. US light crude for May delivery rose by 73 cents to $101.94, and gold saw a slight increase to $940.50 per ounce from around $934.60 per ounce late in New York on Tuesday. | 1 |
European Union leaders have made a decision to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition to renewable fuels. They are challenging other countries to follow their example in combatting climate change. German Chancellor Angela Merkel praised the bloc's ambitious decisions, which include a binding target for renewable energy to make up one-fifth of EU energy use by 2020. She stated that the EU is at the forefront of the fight against global warming and emphasized the importance of international cooperation. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso also urged other countries to join Europe in fighting climate change. The EU package established goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy sources, increase energy efficiency, and utilize biofuels. This will impact all 490 million citizens in the bloc, with a requirement for energy-saving lighting in homes, offices, and streets by the end of the decade. Barroso believes Europe can benefit economically by investing in green technology, but businesses are worried about potential costs and competition from cheaper, less environmentally friendly foreign companies. While the agreement set Europe-wide targets for reducing CO2 emissions and increasing renewable energy, individual member states must agree to specific goals, leading to potential conflicts between Brussels and national governments. Merkel successfully negotiated a legally binding target for renewable fuels like solar, wind, and hydro-electric power, which was a major point of contention. Leaders agreed to the 20 percent target for renewable sources in exchange for flexibility on individual countries' contributions. The United Nations, which has been coordinating global efforts to address climate change, praised the plan. Deputy UN spokeswoman Marie Okabe stated that committing to a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions in the next decade is ambitious but necessary to combat climate change, which is one of humanity's greatest challenges. British Prime Minister Tony Blair described the targets for the European Union as groundbreaking, bold, and ambitious. "They need to put in a lot of effort for Europe to achieve this, but it will give Europe a strong leadership position on this important global issue," he informed reporters. The summit statement pleased countries like France, Poland, Cyprus, and Malta by agreeing to respect their national energy sources. The leaders agreed to a goal of reducing EU greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020, with a possibility of increasing it to 30 percent if other major nations also comply. They also set a target of 10 percent for biofuels in transportation by 2020, to be implemented in a cost-effective manner. However, they did not support the European Commission's proposal to require large utility companies to divest their generation and distribution businesses. They agreed on the importance of separating supply and production activities from network operations, but did not mention breaking up energy giants like E.ON, RWE, Gaz de France, and EDF. Renewables currently make up less than 7 percent of the EU energy mix, and the bloc is not meeting its targets for renewable energy and reducing carbon dioxide emissions. French President Jacques Chirac argued that nuclear power, which accounts for 70 percent of France's electricity, should also be considered in Europe's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, some EU countries are against nuclear power, while others, like Germany, are phasing it out. Poland secured a commitment to solidarity among member states, hinting at western Europe supporting former Soviet bloc countries in case of energy supply disruptions from Russia. Many new ex-communist member states in central Europe were hesitant to agree to the renewables target due to concerns about the costs of transitioning to green energy. Merkel, as the chair of the Group of Eight industrialized powers, aims to lead the EU in setting the environmental agenda. The summit's decisions will influence the EU's stance in global discussions to replace the expiring UN Kyoto Protocol in 2012. Environmentalists, who typically criticize EU initiatives, praised the agreement as a significant advancement. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left for Switzerland on Tuesday to participate in the World Climate Conference-3. She took a regular flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines to London at 8:45am, accompanied by Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, State Minister for Environment Hassan Mahmud, Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad, and daughter Saima Wazed Putul. The delegation was seen off at Zia International Airport by cabinet ministers, military chiefs, and other high officials. Mahmud stated in the VIP Lounge that Bangladesh would request compensation from countries accountable for climate change. The theme of the five-day summit, which began on Monday and is organized by the World Meteorological Organization, is 'Better Climate Information for Better Future'. The summit, chaired by Bangladesh, will continue until September 4. The 50-member LDC Group, consisting of countries most susceptible to the adverse effects of climate change due to emissions from developed countries, is also participating. | 1 |
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed his deep shock at the attack on UN offices in Algiers, which killed 17 staff members. He condemned terrorism as unjustifiable and called for it to be denounced by humanity and the international community. Ban, who was visiting for one day, also expressed his shock at the twin bombings which claimed at least 37 lives in Algiers. This was the second major bombing in the capital of the OPEC member country this year, as it continues to recover from a devastating civil war in the 1990s. "I want to offer my heartfelt sympathies to the government and people of Algeria, as well as to the families of the victims and my colleagues at the United Nations." Ban was reportedly taken in a heavily guarded convoy to the Hydra district, where he surveyed the damage at the UN refugee agency and Development Programme offices. Journalists were not allowed to join him during this visit. The second car bombing on December 11 affected the Constitutional Court building in the Ben Aknoun district. The North African branch of Al Qaeda has claimed responsibility for the attacks, stating that they were targeting individuals they referred to as "the slaves of America and France." Ban met with President Abdelaziz Bouteflika and discussed collaboration between Algeria and the United Nations in the fight against terrorism. They also talked about climate change, illegal migration, and the situation in Western Sahara. The UN has confirmed that 14 Algerians, as well as one victim each from Denmark, Senegal, and the Philippines, were among the dead UN employees. Ban condemned the attacks as an assault on those working towards the UN's mission and called for increased security measures at UN offices worldwide, acknowledging the need for additional funding. | 1 |
The exact date when this large power plant will start providing electricity to France is unknown. The construction is delayed by ten years and has exceeded the budget by 12 billion euros. The initial plans to commence operations this year have been postponed until 2024. Similar issues have been experienced at other nuclear power plants, such as Finland's newest plant, which was expected to be finished in 2009. President Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine have prompted Europe to reduce its reliance on Russian natural gas and oil, leading to a resurgence in nuclear power as a source of homegrown energy and reliable electricity. Advocates believe that nuclear energy could help address Europe's upcoming power shortages, alongside a shift towards solar, wind, and other renewable technologies to meet climate change goals. However, the push for nuclear power is facing opposition in Europe, with pro-nuclear countries like France advocating for an expansion while Germany and others express concerns about the risks associated with radioactive waste. The recent European Commission plan to decrease reliance on Russia did not include nuclear power as a potential energy source to be considered. The challenges faced by the Flamanville-3 project, including delays and cost overruns, are indicative of the broader technical, logistical, and cost issues surrounding nuclear power expansion. Currently, a significant portion of the electricity in the European Union comes from nuclear power, generated by aging reactors mostly constructed in the 1980s. France, home to 56 reactors, contributes over half of this total. Plans for up to 13 new-generation nuclear reactors in France, with a different design than Flamanville-3, are not expected to be operational until at least 2035, making them ineffective in addressing the current energy crisis. Britain has announced plans for up to eight new nuclear plants, but the reality is less optimistic. Five of the six existing British reactors are set to be retired within ten years due to their age. Only one new nuclear station is currently under construction in southwest England, with a completion date of 2026. Other projects in Eastern Europe are not expected to be operational until after 2030. According to Jonathan Stern of the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, nuclear projects typically take at least a decade to complete. He stated that the main issue is decreasing dependency on Russian gas, which needs to be addressed now rather than in the future. Advocates believe that nuclear power could be a viable solution with the right political support. As Russia increased its aggression towards Ukraine, Belgium's government, in collaboration with the Green party, decided to extend the life of two nuclear reactors and postpone the phase-out of nuclear energy until 2025. This decision will help Belgium reduce its reliance on Russian gas while expanding renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power to meet European climate targets by 2035. Belgium's energy minister, Tinne Van der Straeten, stated that the invasion of Ukraine had a significant impact and led to a reversal in the government's stance on nuclear energy. In an effort to reduce imports from Russia, Germany, which heavily relies on Russian gas and coal, is facing challenges in considering nuclear power as an alternative energy source. The country is set to close its last three nuclear plants by the end of the year as part of a phased program initiated after the Fukushima disaster in 2011. Despite some energy companies being open to postponing the shutdown to decrease reliance on Russia, the Green party, part of the governing coalition, is against operating or reopening nuclear stations. Chancellor Olaf Scholz stated that Germany is committed to phasing out nuclear power and delaying the exit is not a viable option. However, even in countries where nuclear power is considered a valuable option, there are numerous obstacles to overcome. Mark Hibbs, a nuclear expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, a research organization, stated that President Emmanuel Macron's plans for a nuclear power renaissance in France will not happen quickly. The cost of implementing these plans is estimated to be 50 billion euros ($57 billion), a price that other European countries may be unwilling or unable to afford. Additionally, the industry will need to train a new generation of nuclear power engineers, further delaying the process. Other technologies are advancing rapidly and becoming more affordable, while nuclear power is not progressing and becoming more costly. Many of France's aging reactors, built in response to the 1970s oil crisis, are currently undergoing safety inspections, making it challenging for French nuclear power to assist with a Russian energy shortage. Anne-Sophie Corbeau from the Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University emphasized these challenges. She stated that nuclear production will decrease in France this year unless a miraculous solution is found, although there is no such solution. However, Moscow's aggression may potentially reverse the industry's decline. There have been optimistic announcements recently, including Britain's decision to increase its nuclear capacity and the Netherlands' plan to build two additional reactors alongside other renewable energy sources. In Eastern Europe, countries near Russia have been making plans to build nuclear reactors, a decision that now seems wise given Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Oregon company NuScale Power is promoting a new reactor design that they claim will be more cost-effective and quicker to build due to components being assembled in factories. They have secured preliminary deals in Romania and Poland, with the invasion in Russia reinforcing the idea of nuclear energy being part of the energy mix. Nuclearelectrica, the Romanian power company, is moving forward with NuScale and Canadian reactor projects to enhance energy security following the Ukraine crisis. Analysts believe that Russia's war may ultimately lead to greater energy independence in Europe. Text = © 2022 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
China, a member of the group, was initially expected to support the deal, but ultimately did not. Premier Wen Jiabao and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh discussed the issue during the East Asia Summit. | 1 |
US President Barack Obama faces political risks with his decision on a new strategy for the war in Afghanistan, as his Democratic Party prepares for challenging midterm congressional elections next year. Obama will announce the strategy at the West Point military academy, which will include increasing US troop levels in Afghanistan and potentially outlining an exit plan. Republicans are pushing for decisive action, while many Democrats are skeptical, creating a difficult situation for Obama as he tries to fulfill his political commitments. Obama is faced with a decision on whether to fulfill General McChrystal's request for 40,000 more troops in Afghanistan or to listen to advisers who suggest a smaller deployment of 10,000 to 20,000 troops with a greater role for Afghan forces. Influential figures in Obama's Cabinet and within the military support a troop increase of 30,000 or more, potentially reaching 35,000 with the inclusion of US trainers. This decision is crucial for the future of the US-led war in Afghanistan, where 68,000 US soldiers are currently part of a multinational force fighting against Taliban militants. The conflict is part of a larger effort against al Qaeda and poses risks for neighboring countries like Pakistan and for US allies like Britain. Additionally, the costly campaign in Afghanistan could impact Obama's domestic agenda and public opinion in the US. Opinion polls reveal that Americans are split on the issue of Afghanistan, with many feeling worn out from the Iraq war and facing economic struggles. A recent poll by the Washington Post-ABC News showed that 46 percent of Americans support a significant increase in troops for combat and training, while 45 percent prefer sending a smaller number of troops. The poll also indicated that 48 percent disapproved of how Obama was handling the situation in Afghanistan, compared to 45 percent who approved. Of particular concern for Democrats was the declining approval among independents, with only 39 percent showing approval - a group that had helped elect Obama in 2008. Concerns in the United States regarding high unemployment, government bailouts, the federal budget deficit, and healthcare reform are coinciding with uncertainty about Afghanistan. The upcoming elections in November 2010 could be affected by this anti-incumbent sentiment, potentially impacting the Democrats' legislative majorities. Some liberal Democrats are against further involvement in Afghanistan, with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi criticizing President Karzai and questioning the need for increased U.S. aid. Other prominent Democrats have advised President Obama to clarify the U.S. "exit strategy" for Afghanistan. General McChrystal recently indicated to a group of U.S. lawmakers that the number of American troops in Afghanistan could start to decrease after reaching a peak in 2013, and an upcoming international conference in London aims to establish conditions for gradually transferring security responsibilities to Afghan authorities. Some experienced Democratic lawmakers have even suggested implementing a "war tax" on wealthy Americans to fund the conflict, a move that is typically not considered during an election year. Democrats are hoping to distance themselves from an unpopular war with no clear path to success by urging Obama to scale back military involvement in Afghanistan. They also want to demonstrate their commitment to fiscal responsibility by curbing the escalating costs of the war, which could reach up to $40 billion annually. What do Republicans think? Republicans see Obama's dilemma in Afghanistan as a chance to emphasize their strong stance on national security and criticize the perceived indecisiveness of the Democratic president. Former Vice President Dick Cheney expressed concern that Obama's three-month review of Afghanistan options was taking too long, causing doubts among allies in the region and the troops. The Republican Senate leader, Mitch McConnell, encouraged Obama to continue pressuring the Taliban, as 14 House Republicans wrote a letter to endorse General McChrystal's request for 40,000 additional troops. Republicans aim to present themselves as vigilant in protecting the United States and regain support from disillusioned voters in swing districts. Democrats argue that Republicans are attempting to divert attention from the lack of success in defeating the Taliban during George W. Bush's presidency, despite his deployment of larger forces in Iraq. | 1 |
Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a decree stating that foreign buyers must pay for Russian gas in roubles starting on Friday or risk having their supplies cut. This move, which European capitals have rejected and Berlin has called "blackmail", could result in Europe losing more than a third of its gas supply. Germany, which is heavily reliant on Russian gas, has activated an emergency plan that may lead to rationing in the largest economy in Europe. Putin is using energy exports as a powerful tool to retaliate against the extensive Western sanctions imposed on Russian entities in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow refers to as a "special military operation". In his televised remarks, Putin stated that purchasers of Russian gas will be required to open rouble accounts in Russian banks for payments starting on April 1. Failure to make payments in this manner will be considered a default, leading to the termination of existing contracts. It is uncertain whether foreign firms will have alternative payment options, as the European Union and G7 have rejected the use of roubles. His choice to require rouble payments has strengthened the Russian currency, which had dropped significantly following the invasion on Feb. 24. The rouble has since regained a large portion of its lost value. Western companies and governments have refused to alter their gas supply contracts to accommodate a change in payment currency. The majority of European buyers utilize euros for payment. Executives have stated that renegotiating terms would be a lengthy process, taking months or possibly longer. Paying in roubles would lessen the impact of Western restrictions on Moscow's access to foreign exchange reserves. European countries are scrambling to find alternative energy sources, but with limited options in the tight global market. The United States has offered more liquefied natural gas (LNG) but it is not sufficient to replace Russia. Germany's Economy Minister Robert Habeck stated that Russia has failed to divide Europe and Western allies are committed to not being manipulated by Russia. Berlin announced it will keep paying for Russian energy imports in euros. France's economy minister Bruno Le Maire stated that France and Germany were preparing for the possibility of Russian gas flows being stopped. Le Maire did not comment on the technical details related to Russia's recent demands for payment in roubles. Putin's order allows for payments to be made through special foreign currency and rouble accounts at Gazprombank, with foreign currency being converted into roubles through currency auctions on a Moscow exchange. Putin argued that this switch would enhance Russia's sovereignty, as Western countries were using the financial system as a weapon against Russia. He stated that it no longer made sense for Russia to conduct trade in dollars and euros when assets in those currencies were being frozen. Putin questioned what was actually happening and had already occurred. We have provided European customers with our resources, specifically gas. They accepted it, paid us in euros, and then stored the money themselves. This situation leads us to believe that we essentially gave part of the gas to Europe for free," he stated. "This cannot go on. Putin emphasized that Russia still values its business reputation. "We will adhere and will continue to adhere to our obligations in all contracts, including gas contracts. We will continue to provide gas in the specified quantities - I want to stress this - and at the prices outlined in current, long-term contracts," he stated. Following Putin's announcement, several European companies with Russian contracts either remained silent or did not respond immediately, causing further anxiety in the market. European gas prices have surged in recent months due to escalating tensions with Russia, heightening the risk of a recession. The unprecedented rise in energy prices has already led to production cutbacks for companies in industries such as steel and chemicals. Poland's PGNiG, which is under a long-term contract with Gazprom, Russia's gas pipeline export monopoly, that is set to expire at the end of the year, had no immediate response to the news. The Polish Climate Ministry did not provide an immediate response. Poland's agreement with Gazprom is for 10.2 billion cubic meters of gas annually and is in dollars. Italian energy company Eni, another significant purchaser of Russian gas in Europe, also did not comment. Eni purchased approximately 22.5 billion cubic meters of Russian gas in 2020, with contracts with Gazprom set to expire in 2035. Buyers of Russian gas in Germany, including Uniper, RWE, EnBW, and VNG, did not respond promptly to requests for comment. | 1 |
Water in Bangladesh is crucial for survival. The country is known for its abundant rivers, extensive coastlines, and strong-willed population. However, 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges. Cyclone Amphan caused widespread destruction in the south-western regions, followed by monsoon rains that flooded one-third of the country, displacing many and ruining crops. Dealing with the aftermath of water-related disasters, such as pollution and disease, is incredibly difficult. In a year marked by the challenges of Covid-19, accessing clean water is even more difficult for sanitation and pandemic prevention. In Dhaka, the waters of the Brahmaputra and Padma basins are slowly receding, allowing people to resume their lives while still facing the threat of the coronavirus. Efforts are being made to evaluate flood defences and offer aid to those impacted, with plans being made to improve preparedness for future disasters in Bangladesh. The climate crisis is always present. I wish to caution nations and financial institutions that believe they are unaffected by the climate crisis that they are not exempt. The Covid-19 pandemic has proven that no country or company can thrive in isolation. It has also highlighted the importance of working together to address global challenges and the fact that prevention is simpler than finding a cure. This means that in 2020, it is crucial for us to prioritize listening to scientists. We are dealing with a global crisis involving climate change, public health, and environmental degradation. The loss of biodiversity is being worsened by climate change, and countries like Bangladesh are not the only ones suffering from the consequences of nature's fury. In various parts of the world this year, wildfires have caused destruction in places like the Amazon, Australia, California, and Siberia. Cyclones, hurricanes, and floods have caused significant damage in various regions such as the US, Caribbean, Asia, and the UK, which will host the COP26 climate summit next year. The increase in extreme weather events can be attributed to the unsustainable practices of human activities, leading to climate change. These events, including floods, rainfalls, cyclones, heatwaves, landslides, and droughts, have become more frequent and intense, posing a threat to food security. It is crucial to acknowledge the seriousness of these issues. A one-meter increase in sea level will submerge many small islands and coastal nations, while floods caused by melting glaciers will devastate mountainous countries. This will result in millions of people being displaced as climate refugees, overwhelming the world's capacity to accommodate them. The G20 nations are accountable for approximately 80% of emissions, whereas the bottom 100 countries contribute only 3.5%. The emitters carry a heavier burden and must provide more significant assistance in the efforts to limit global temperature rise to 1.5C. Bangladesh, as the current head of the Climate Vulnerable Forum, is calling for increased aid and technology access from the international community and G20 to accelerate adaptation for the most vulnerable countries. Among these nations, Bangladesh stands out for its strong preparedness for extreme weather events, including the construction of sea walls, planting of mangrove forests, and integration of resilience into all government activities. However, Bangladesh cannot tackle these challenges alone. Sixty-four countries and the EU have recently pledged to take action in response to the planetary emergency, representing approximately 1.4 billion people and a quarter of global GDP. The next steps involve building common political will at both domestic and global levels. The UK and Italy, as hosts of upcoming COP, G7, and G20 meetings, are responsible for driving this agenda forward, including providing support for nations most affected by the crisis. Business leaders, CEOs, CFOs, and investors at all levels also have a crucial role to play in this effort. You might think that the most important thing is your quarterly results, but what truly matters is our shared bottom line: if we continue to harm nature to the point where it can no longer sustain us, we will all face the consequences. Events in one part of the world can impact markets globally. Rising sea levels will affect everyone. The only solution is a fundamental change in how governments and businesses operate, moving towards low carbon practices and caring for the planet instead of exploiting it. A recent study conducted by Vivid Economics on the response to Covid-19 indicates that its effect on climate change has been varied. I commend the EU for placing emphasis on a sustainable recovery. We intend to follow suit in Bangladesh, and I sincerely hope that other government and business leaders will do the same. While creating jobs is important, we must also consider the future job market and establish strong foundations for the long term. Climate change, pandemics, and the depletion of nature are shared challenges that need to be addressed. They should bring us together to collaborate on finding a shared solution: a world that is cleaner, more environmentally friendly, and safer. In Bangla, we say: "Bhabia korio kaj, koria bhabio na" (think before you act, not after you've acted), meaning we should avoid irreversible actions. | 1 |
Australia's Prime Minister Kevin Rudd impressed China with his fluent Mandarin, but his complex, jargon-filled English language often confuses his fellow Australians. Australian newspapers criticized Rudd for being overly focused on policy and using too much diplomatic language and acronyms. The Sunday Age newspaper columnist Tom Hyland said that Rudd sometimes creates his own language and does not speak proper English. Despite this, Rudd received praise for delivering a speech in perfect Mandarin at a prestigious Chinese university, where he addressed human rights and Tibet. Australian newspapers reported that Prime Minister Rudd's message in Beijing was very different from his usual use of English. They highlighted a comment he made about climate change after a meeting with Britain's prime minister as an example of his complex language, which they referred to as "geek talk". Journalists were confused by Rudd's statement about the need for greater synergy between policy leadership and quickly delivering outcomes. The Sydney Morning Herald commented on Rudd's frequent use of acronyms like EWS, RTP, and CCS, suggesting that he still had a bureaucratic way of speaking despite leaving that world behind. | 1 |
The desire for change during the 2008 presidential campaign is also evident in U.S. House and Senate races, as Democrats are on track to increase their control of Congress. Polls indicate that voters prefer Democrats on various issues, such as the Iraq war, the economy, and energy, and believe the country is heading in the wrong direction as President George W. Bush's term comes to an end. However, Democrats are also facing challenges, with only one in five Americans approving of the closely divided Congress that Democrats took control of in 2007. Despite their minority status, Republicans have successfully blocked Democrats on several issues, including attempts to withdraw from Iraq. Stu Rothenberg from the nonpartisan Rothenberg Political Report, known for monitoring presidential and congressional elections, stated that the public desires change. When voters consider who is in power, they typically focus on the president rather than Congress. Rothenberg added that if voters are upset, they typically blame the president's party. Senator Barack Obama of Illinois gained momentum in the Democratic presidential race by emphasizing the themes of "hope and change" in Washington, which is frequently hindered by political conflicts. Obama's popular "change" message has been adopted by his Democratic rival, Hillary Clinton, as well as by the Republican presidential nominee, John McCain. In addition to choosing a new president in November, voters will also elect one-third of the Senate and the entire House of Representatives. Currently, Democrats hold a slight majority in the Senate and the House, and are expected to gain more seats in both chambers. There is a possibility of reaching the needed 60 seats in the Senate to overcome Republican filibusters. The most recent time either political party had a Senate majority that could not be filibustered was in 1977-78 when the Democrats were in power. Jennifer Duffy from the nonpartisan Cook Political Report stated that if everything goes well, Democrats could potentially reach 60 Senate seats, but she also mentioned that the likelihood of this happening is low due to the difficult political environment. There are 23 Senate seats up for election, with five currently held by retiring Republicans and several others facing strong opponents. All 12 Senate Democrats who are up for re-election are expected to win, according to Senator John Ensign from Nevada, who is the chairman of the Senate Republican campaign committee. Ensign mentioned that holding onto 47 or 48 seats would be considered a very good outcome for Republicans, down from the current 49. However, he expressed confidence that Democrats would not reach 60 seats. On the other hand, Senator Charles Schumer from New York, who is the chairman of the Senate Democratic campaign committee, stated that things are moving favorably for the Democrats. Despite Democrats outperforming Republicans in fundraising, having fewer congressional retirements, and experiencing more success in recruiting challengers, they are worried about potential negative effects from the intense Obama-Clinton rivalry during the Democratic nominating primaries for the presidential nomination. Rep. Chris Van Hollen expressed concerns about lasting wounds from the primary battles that could impact the November elections. While he doesn't believe it would result in Democrats losing control of Congress, it could hinder their efforts to gain more seats. Andrew Kohut of the Pew Research Center suggested that a strong performance by McCain in the presidential race could help Republicans prevent losses in Congress. Kohut emphasized the importance of the top of the ticket, noting that McCain performs well with independents who often determine election outcomes. Democrats aim to counter any notion that McCain and other Republicans represent change by linking them to Bush, who has low approval ratings. Van Hollen mentioned that even though Bush is not running this year, his influence is still felt in the elections. House Republicans must justify seven years of supporting failed Iraq and economic policies. Rep. Tom Cole, chairman of the House Republican campaign committee, dismissed concerns and believes their prospects are underestimated. Cole pointed out that Democrats gained control of Congress in 2006 by blaming Republicans for various issues such as the Iraq war and economic struggles. Now that Democrats control both the House and Senate, they also bear responsibility for the negative perception of Washington. | 1 |
European Union leaders have agreed to deploy administrators and police to Kosovo in anticipation of its declaration of independence from Serbia. They have also offered Serbia a quick path to EU membership once certain conditions are met. However, Serbia has rejected the idea that this offer is a form of compensation for losing Kosovo. The EU leaders have stated that negotiations on Kosovo's future have reached a standstill, the current situation is not sustainable, and there is a need to work towards a resolution for Kosovo. They did not fully support independence, but they made a political decision to send an ESDP mission to Kosovo, which shows the EU's commitment to leading on Kosovo and the region's future. The mission includes police, justice officials, and civilian administrators. When questioned about the EU's stance on recognizing Kosovo's independence, Socrates mentioned that discussions were ongoing at the United Nations. He emphasized that the EU was actively addressing the issue and not ignoring it. French President Nicolas Sarkozy acknowledged the EU's struggle with accepting Kosovo's inevitable independence. It was noted that Cyprus, Greece, Slovakia, and Romania were opposed to recognizing Kosovo's sovereignty without a UN Security Council resolution. "ON A PLANE"? The day following the signing of a treaty to resolve a long-standing institutional deadlock, EU leaders shifted their attention to the challenges presented by the Balkans, as well as by globalization and immigration, which will test the EU's ability to strengthen its foreign policy influence. Regarding Serbia's application to join the 27-nation bloc, the final summit statement expressed confidence that progress towards EU membership, including candidate status, could be expedited. Pro-EU factions in Belgrade are aiming for candidate status by the end of the coming year, a goal that EU Enlargement Commission Olli Rehn recently described as ambitious yet achievable. Typically, it takes about two years for Brussels to grant candidate status to an applicant country after signing a Stabilisation and Accession Agreement (SAA), the initial step on the path to EU membership. The delay in signing an SAA with Belgrade is due to their failure to hand over Bosnian Serb wartime general Ratko Mladic to a UN war crimes tribunal in the Hague for genocide charges. Outgoing chief war crimes prosecutor Carla Del Ponte has urged EU leaders not to go easy on Belgrade and to continue putting pressure on them to extradite indicted individuals. Del Ponte expressed surprise at France, Germany, and Italy's willingness to soften their stance, and is relying on Belgium and the Netherlands to maintain a tough approach. Dutch Foreign Minister Maxime Verhagen stated that Mladic must be sent to the Hague before he will agree to sign the SAA. According to diplomats, EU leaders have appointed former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez to lead a new "reflection group" to discuss the future of the EU in areas such as enlargement, climate change, and regional stability. Vaira Vike-Freiberga, former Latvian President, and Jorma Ollila, Nokia's chairman, were chosen as vice-chairs of the panel, which is expected to report in June 2010. The leaders also addressed concerns about European job markets being affected by immigration and cheap imports, issues that the EU plans to focus on following the signing of the Lisbon Treaty. The treaty, which replaced the failed constitution in 2005, aims to preserve key institutional reforms while eliminating symbols of statehood such as a flag and anthem. EU leaders believe the treaty will help streamline the bloc's structures to accommodate future enlargement after the inclusion of 12 ex-communist states in 2004 and 2007. Critics argue that it will limit the independence of nations and transfer more authority to Brussels. | 1 |
India could potentially be the first country to approve the British drugmaker's vaccine, as their medicine regulator is currently reviewing data from trials. India, known for being the world's largest vaccine producer, aims to begin vaccinating its citizens next month and is also considering emergency use authorization for vaccines developed by Pfizer Inc and local company Bharat Biotech. Distributing vaccines to India, which has a high infection rate, will be a significant step in combatting the pandemic. The AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine is seen as crucial for lower-income countries and those in warm climates due to its affordability, ease of transportation, and ability to be stored at regular fridge temperatures for long periods. The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization in India initially reviewed three applications on Dec. 9 and requested additional information from all companies involved, including the Serum Institute of India, which is producing the AstraZeneca vaccine. The world's largest vaccine manufacturer, SII, has now shared all the necessary data, according to two sources. Authorities are still waiting for more information from Pfizer and Bharat Biotech. Indian health officials are in communication with British officials regarding the AstraZeneca vaccine, with indications that approval may come next week. Recent data from AstraZeneca's trials in the UK and Brazil showed varying efficacy rates, with the Indian regulator only considering the two full-dose regimen despite the lower success rate. One of the sources confirmed that the serum is prepared and mentioned that initially, there could be approximately 50 million to 60 million doses available. The sources chose to remain anonymous as discussions were still in progress and the schedule could be subject to change. V.G. Somani, the CDSCO chief, did not immediately provide a response to a request for comment. Bharat Biotech and Pfizer chose not to comment, and SII did not immediately respond to an email asking for a comment. India has not finalized an agreement with any company for vaccine supply, however, the Serum Institute of India (SII) has already accumulated over 50 million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine and aims to produce a total of 400 million doses by July. | 1 |
The government is planning to announce a budget of around Tk 100,000 crore for the upcoming fiscal year, with a proposal to allocate up to 15 percent of the amount for subsidizing essential commodities, according to bdnews24.com senior correspondent Abdur Rahim Harmachhi. This will be the first time in history that a caretaker government has proposed a complete budget for two consecutive fiscal years. Finance adviser AB Mirza Azizul Islam stated that up to Tk 15,000 crore will be allocated for fuel, food, and fertiliser, which is three times more than the previous fiscal year's allocation for similar subsidies. While spending on non-development sectors will exceed Tk 70,000 crore, the overall budget deficit is projected to be kept under five percent. Mirza Aziz stated that there would be no tax rate increases in the upcoming fiscal year, but import duties on certain goods might be raised to support local industry. He identified fuel price hikes in the global market, the world food crisis, and climate change-induced natural disasters as the primary challenges for Bangladesh in budget preparation. Despite the significant pressure on the economy from soaring oil prices internationally, the government has not yet decided to raise fuel prices. Aziz explained that oil prices had reached $139 per barrel as the budget was being announced, increasing by more than $10 in a single day, but fuel prices were not increased considering the overall situation. According to the adviser, a barrel of fuel cost $62 on the global market when the government last raised fuel prices in the country in 2007. The overall deficit in the budget for fiscal 2007-08 was projected at 4.2 percent. The finance adviser mentioned that the budget deficit is expected to slightly increase in the upcoming year due to higher subsidies for sectors such as fuel, fertiliser, and food. He reassured that the deficit would not exceed 5 percent. The finance adviser also stated that efforts would be made to widen the tax net in order to increase revenue income. The estimated revenue income for the upcoming fiscal year is expected to increase by 17 percent. In the 2008-09 budget, Tk 43,850 crore was allocated from NBR-controlled sources. The adviser mentioned that the tax structure in the budget would be favorable for businesses. He also stated that the discretionary power of tax officials would be limited and the tax collection process would be simplified. The target growth rate for the gross domestic product is set at 6.5 percent, with an estimated annual inflation rate of around 9 percent. The target for GDP growth in the fiscal year 2007-08 was set at 7 percent, with an average inflation rate of 6 percent. The finance adviser explained that achieving 7 percent growth in the fiscal year that just ended was not possible due to floods and cyclones. Initially, it was expected that the growth rate for the current fiscal year would be below 6 percent. However, the most recent data from the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics reveals that the growth rate is actually 6.21 percent. In the previous fiscal year (2006-07), GDP growth was 6.5 percent. Mirza Aziz expressed that a significant worry for Bangladesh's economy is inflation. He emphasized that the point-to-point inflation rate dropped by three percentage points to 7.7 percent in April, according to data from the Bureau of Statistics. In March, the point-to-point inflation rate was recorded at 10.06 percent. Aziz highlighted that agriculture will be given top priority in the upcoming budget, with the sector receiving the highest allocation in the development budget. Mirza Aziz stated that the government had devised plans to create job opportunities for impoverished individuals in the upcoming fiscal year. As part of the scheme, one individual per family will be compensated for 100 days of work. Additionally, the number of recipients of various government benefits through the social safety net will be expanded. The advisor mentioned that efforts would be made to boost the buying power of those in fixed income brackets. Furthermore, there will be an announcement regarding an increase in the dearness allowance for government workers to alleviate the hardships brought on by rising prices. The finance adviser's budget speech will be aired live on government and private TV and radio channels at 3pm on Monday. Similar to last year, the government is encouraging public review of the proposed budget by sharing the budget speech, summary, and annual financial statement on www.mof.gov.bd. Printed copies will also be available starting at 3pm on Monday. Anyone can access and download the budget documents, provide feedback by completing forms, or submit written comments, recommendations, and criticisms until 5pm on June 16. All input will be taken into account and included in the final approved budget, allowing for public involvement in the process. The government has identified specific websites where the public can access the proposed budget, including www.bangladesh.gov.bd, www.nbr-bd.org, www.plancomm.gov.bd, www.imed.gov.bd, www.bdpressinform.org, and www.cao.gov.bd. Additionally, links to the documents will be provided on other government websites and on bdnews24.com. | 1 |
Australia, previously criticized for not ratifying the Kyoto Protocol, has now called for the agreement to be scrapped, stating that it should be left in the past. Despite warnings that Greenhouse Gas emissions are expected to increase, Environment Minister Malcolm Turnbull believes Australia will still meet its targets under the pact. Turnbull suggested that Kyoto should be replaced with a new global agreement that includes major players like India, China, and the United States. He expressed doubt that the United States would ever ratify the protocol in its current form. The first commitment period of Kyoto is soon becoming a thing of the past in terms of climate change history. The Kyoto Protocol, which places limits on emissions for wealthy countries but not for poorer countries like China, is set to expire in 2012. Australia, the largest exporter of coal in the world, has chosen not to ratify the agreement or enforce mandatory reductions in carbon emissions, citing potential negative impacts on the economy. Instead, Australia has announced plans to invest A$18.5 million in China to help reduce emissions by capturing methane from underground mining and using it for electricity generation. China, a member of a different climate pact along with the United States, Australia, Japan, India, and South Korea, has rejected emissions caps, fearing they could hinder economic growth. Australian Prime Minister Turnbull believes in practical measures to combat climate change rather than symbolic agreements like Kyoto, and criticizes the protocol for failing to address deforestation in countries like Indonesia and Brazil. "He mentioned that Kyoto's outcomes have been lackluster for a reason," said. The Climate Institute, an independent organization, recently reported that Australia, which is the top polluter per person globally, is set to exceed its limit of 108 percent of greenhouse emissions from 1990, a claim that Turnbull disputed with the latest data from 2005. Australian Greens Senator Christine Milne accused Turnbull of trying to hide the fact that energy and transport emissions have increased in the past two years due to the country's mining and export boom. Prime Minister John Howard, a conservative, argues that climate change solutions should be agreed upon globally rather than being restricted to industrialized European nations like the 'Old Kyoto' agreement. With the upcoming re-election and polls showing that 80 percent of voters consider climate change a significant issue, Howard has introduced various environmental measures to enhance his reputation in environmental matters. Australia is anticipated to prioritize taking action against climate change in the upcoming May 8 Budget, as the government has already indicated that it plans to spend A$10 billion on improving water usage in response to a prolonged period of severe drought. | 1 |
France's president-elect Nicolas Sarkozy will begin his journey into international diplomacy by meeting with British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who is set to leave office after a decade. Both leaders, in their 50s, have a good relationship and share similar views on various issues, such as proposing a revised European constitutional treaty following its rejection by French voters in 2005. Their discussions, scheduled to begin at 1530 GMT after Blair meets with outgoing President Jacques Chirac, will focus on upcoming important European Union and G8 meetings. Blair's spokesman mentioned that the talks with Sarkozy will address key international events like the EU treaty and G8 discussions on climate change and the Gleneagles agenda follow-up. Blair, who will step down on June 27, made a rare gesture by publicly welcoming Sarkozy's election in a French tribute video posted on YouTube. He stated that the success of the right-winger presents a great opportunity for Britain and France to collaborate in the future. Sarkozy is pushing for a less ambitious treaty to be passed by parliament and has rejected the idea of holding another referendum on the constitution. Blair's spokesman mentioned that he does not speak on behalf of Nicolas Sarkozy and that they will discuss this issue. The prime minister is in favor of an amended treaty rather than a full constitution. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who Sarkozy will meet with next week, has made reviving the charter a priority during her EU presidency. Sarkozy has emphasized his commitment to repairing the strained relations with the United States and Britain that resulted from France's strong stance against the Iraq war. He has prioritized improving ties with Washington and London, while also recognizing the significance of the traditional alliance with Germany, as evidenced by his upcoming visit to Berlin on the day he assumes office. According to German government spokesman Thomas Steg, this visit is seen as a strong indication of Franco-German friendship. | 1 |
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has suggested that Bangladesh and the Maldives collaborate in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, as both countries are highly vulnerable to the impacts of rising sea levels. The proposal was made during a meeting with Maldives ambassador Ahmed Fareer, who informed Hasina about the Maldives' plans to host climate change talks in Asia. Hasina urged leaders of the Maldives to work together with Bangladesh to address the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather and rising sea levels. Additionally, Hasina requested the Maldivian government to consider importing goods such as physicians, teachers, medicines, ready made garments, and ceramic products from Bangladesh. The prime minister guaranteed the envoy that Bangladesh would provide full support for establishing the 'Bangladesh-Maldives University' in the Maldives, according to Islam. The PM's principal secretary MA Karim, PMO secretary Mollah Wahiduzzman, and ambassador at large Ziauddin Ahmed were also in attendance. | 1 |
He assumed office with promises of cautious reforms, but critics now speculate that Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's true agenda may be to hold the Kremlin seat until Vladimir Putin's return. Despite being almost halfway through his term, there is little proof that Medvedev is following through on pledges to reform Russia's political system, modernize its oil-dependent economy, tackle corruption, and uphold the rule of law. The recent local elections were criticized as the most corrupt in Russia's history, with NGOs and business leaders echoing these concerns. Regional leaders with close ties to the Kremlin accused of misconduct have been re-appointed, further fueling doubts about Medvedev's intentions. Reports of police and court power abuses are common. Vladimir Ryzhkov, a former independent deputy in the Russian parliament, criticized President Medvedev for not truly reforming despite making small cosmetic changes. The Kremlin stated they would provide detailed information on Medvedev's achievements in May, focusing on political system reforms, improving the investment climate, pacifying the North Caucasus, and negotiating a nuclear arms pact with Washington. An analysis by the Interfax news agency found that state-run media has attempted to enhance the president's reputation, with more references to Medvedev than Putin in Russian media last year. However, pollsters note that Putin's popularity among ordinary people has increased due to the economic prosperity and stability experienced during his presidency from 2000-2008. This popularity continues in his current role as prime minister, with Russia's elite also showing greater respect for Putin. Chechen president Ramzan Kadyrov recently praised Putin as a "very strong leader of world stature" in a Reuters interview. He did not mention Medvedev, disappointing hopes among Western powers that Medvedev would be a more flexible partner than Putin. However, these hopes quickly faded when Medvedev led Russia into a conflict with Georgia in 2008. Last year, Moscow raised expectations of joining the World Trade Organisation, signing a nuclear arms reduction pact with the United States, and supporting tough sanctions against Iran for its nuclear program, only to fall short on all three. Officials say that Putin, not his superior Medvedev, had the final say in each of these decisions, revealing where power truly lies in Russia's ruling "tandem." Officials at the Kremlin and the White House (Putin's prime ministerial offices) publicly claim that the "tandem" is a strong and productive partnership between two equals who respect each other's areas of authority outlined in the constitution. For example, Medvedev recently held a meeting to discuss reforms to Russia's political system, which is heavily influenced by the Kremlin's United Russia bloc, leading some to compare it to the Soviet-era Communist Party. However, Putin had the final say, emphasizing the importance of carefully considering changes to the political system and avoiding any instability. According to a senior diplomat, Putin's message was straightforward: there will be no significant political changes in Russia. Investors are also aware of where the power is concentrated. When asked about the potential impact of Medvedev leaving on Russian markets, a chief strategist at a Moscow bank said it would have minimal effect. However, if the same question was posed about Putin leaving, the response was that it would cause chaos. However, the frequent discrepancies in public demeanor between Putin and Medvedev have caused some observers of Russia to speculate about disagreements between them, or even suggest that a power struggle could be happening within the elite. According to diplomats, supporters of Medvedev are particularly interested in spreading this message to enhance his image as a reformer. In this narrative, Medvedev's slow progress in implementing reforms is attributed to his cautious approach in order to avoid upsetting Putin. On the other hand, supporters of Putin argue that Medvedev will eventually take more decisive actions in the future. However, many individuals close to the centers of power dismiss these claims. Yulia Latynina, an opposition journalist, believes that there cannot be a true power struggle between Putin, who holds all the power, and Medvedev, who has none. Critics also argue that Medvedev, who has closely collaborated with Putin for 19 years, is unlikely to have a secret reform agenda. Experts predict that Putin will likely return to the presidency in 2012, taking advantage of a constitutional reform that extends the presidential term to six years. Putin, who is more popular and trusted than Medvedev, could potentially remain in office until 2024. "I have recently returned from a visit to the provinces, where the general belief is that Putin will return in 2012. This seems to be a popular opinion, and I personally agree with it. Putin has greater resources and support." | 1 |
The Netherlands, which has a surplus of irrigation resources, has shown interest in assisting Bangladesh in updating its irrigation system. Foreign adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury had separate meetings with the Dutch foreign minister and development cooperation minister in Amsterdam. During the meeting with development cooperation minister Bert Koenders, Chowdhury emphasized the importance of directing Dutch assistance through the government rather than NGOs and multilateral agencies. They discussed potential areas of cooperation such as modern irrigation systems, livestock and dairy, food processing, and agro-business development. Additionally, Chowdhury met with his Dutch counterpart Maxime Verhagen during the visit. The foreign ministry stated that Bangladesh views the Netherlands as a reliable partner in development. Iftekhar encouraged the Dutch foreign minister to broaden their imports from Bangladesh beyond ready-made garments to include other manufacturing sectors like small and medium-sized ships. They also agreed to collaborate on shared issues such as climate change. Verhagen pledged his assistance for the electoral process and was briefed by the adviser on preparations for the Jatiya Sangsad polls. Iftekhar highlighted the importance of a European Union Observer Mission during the upcoming elections while discussing the current government's reform initiatives with the Dutch minister. Bangladesh Ambassador to the Netherlands Mizanur Rahman, director general of the foreign ministry M Zulfiqur Rahman, and the Dutch envoy to Bangladesh Bea Ten Touscher were also in attendance during the meetings. | 1 |
The RBI stated that while the growth outlook and business climate have weakened, there are upward risks to inflation. The central bank is expected to keep interest rates unchanged and gave little indication of cutting the cash reserve ratio, which disappointed market expectations. The RBI has not changed interest rates since December, after raising them multiple times between March 2010 and October 2011. The key factors for future rate actions will be core inflation and exchange rate pass-through, according to the RBI's quarterly macroeconomic and monetary review released on Monday. Core inflation, which measures price changes in non-food manufactured products, has remained at or above 7 percent for 11 consecutive months, well above its long-term trend of around 4 percent. Contributing to inflationary pressures, the rupee experienced a 16 percent depreciation against the dollar in 2011, leading to increased costs for crucial imports like oil. Headline inflation, as indicated by the wholesale price index, decreased to a two-year low of 7.47 percent in December due to a significant drop in food inflation. However, inflation for manufactured products rose slightly compared to the previous month. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mentioned that risks to inflation remain high due to inadequate supply responses, exchange rate fluctuations, suppressed inflation, and a government fiscal policy that promotes spending. The RBI also stated that inflation is expected to decrease to its target of 7 percent by the end of the fiscal year in March. Investments in industrial capacity, which would alleviate supply constraints in India, have been hindered by slow decision-making in New Delhi. Meanwhile, initiatives aimed at boosting the purchasing power of rural Indians have led to an increase in demand for products like protein-rich foods. Could the hope for a CRR cut be over? Indian government bond yields and overnight indexed swap rates decreased on Monday, leading up to the release of the RBI's report, due to speculation that the central bank might reduce the CRR. Out of 20 economists surveyed by Reuters last week, 7 predicted a CRR reduction on Tuesday, while none anticipated a decrease in interest rates. The 10-year benchmark bond yield ended the day 1 basis point lower at 8.17 percent, the one-year swap rate dropped by 8 bps to 7.93 percent, and the five-year rate fell by 3 bps to 7.23 percent. However, some analysts believe that the central bank's review on Monday has reduced the likelihood of a CRR cut on Tuesday. The RBI recognized the significant liquidity tightening since November but stated that liquidity stress has been managed through open market operations (OMOs). This suggests that the RBI may continue to use OMOs to provide rupee liquidity instead of immediately reducing the CRR due to potential risks to inflation. A senior trader at a foreign bank noted that Monday's statement seemed to rule out a CRR cut, which could negatively impact bonds on Tuesday. Despite this, some still believe that a CRR cut on Tuesday is a possibility. The central bank stated that although open market operations have been its preferred method for dealing with tight market liquidity, it is willing to consider other measures if necessary. It emphasized the importance of ensuring that liquidity deficits are kept within acceptable limits to facilitate the smooth functioning of other markets. The RBI also noted that it anticipates an improvement in growth in the upcoming fiscal year, but cautioned that slow recovery may persist due to weak investment and external demand. It attributed the weakened growth outlook to unfavorable global and domestic factors. | 1 |
The president made the statement during a program in Dhaka on Sunday, following the recent killings of two foreigners in the country which were claimed by the radical group Islamic State. He was speaking at the opening ceremony of the 44th national council of Bangladesh Scouts, encouraging the scouts to instill patriotism in young people and promote the country's tradition of communal harmony. He emphasized the importance of rejecting zealotry, fundamentalism, extremism, and militancy in Bangladesh. The chief scout, Hamid, commended the organization for their efforts in disaster response and urged them to raise awareness about maintaining ecological balance to address climate change impacts. He also called for a social movement against drug addiction. The president awarded Silver Tiger to nine scouts, Silver Hilsa to 17, President's Rover Scout to two, and President's Scout to 122. The event was overseen by Bangladesh Scouts President Abul Kalam Azad, who is also the Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister’s Office. Additionally, the organization’s chief national commissioner, Home Secretary Md Mozammel Haque Khan, addressed the audience. | 1 |
Six months after the US invasion, Esam Pasha, a 30-year-old Iraqi artist and writer, proudly painted a mural titled "Resilience" over a large portrait of Saddam Hussein on a government building wall. Pasha, now living in the United States, is one of many Iraqis who have left the country since the war, including doctors, businessmen, academics, and other professionals whose expertise Iraq cannot afford to lose. Pasha fondly remembers spending time at a gallery in Baghdad, sipping tea and chatting all day, and expresses nostalgia for the sounds, birds, and tea of Iraq. His mural depicted a vibrant celebration of Baghdad life and what he called "the ever-shining sun of Iraq." Pasha explained in a phone interview from Connecticut that he did not use any black paint in the mural, as he believed Baghdad had suffered enough darkness in its history. The mural, located on a wall of the Ministry of Labour, is inaccessible to the public due to security measures. Pasha expressed hope that one day Baghdad would be safe enough for public art to be enjoyed by all. He envisioned a city where artists could contribute to its beauty and cleanliness, restoring it to its former glory. Abu Mina, a ceramic artist and university professor, continues to visit the gallery that Pasha remembers with affection. However, he mentions that there is no security in place, which is hindering any progress. Abu Mina explains that art sales have declined significantly, and he is contemplating leaving. Additionally, he reveals that he has not received his salary from the university for a month, and many of his students are not attending classes due to safety concerns. Abu Mina estimates that only three students will graduate this year, as the majority of the class has been absent. The Higher Education Ministry reports that 185 university teachers have been killed, 52 kidnapped, and 41 wounded since April 2003. A recent double bombing at a Baghdad university resulted in the deaths of 70 people, mostly students. Abu Mina's son is studying medicine, but classes are infrequent and many professors have relocated to Damascus for safety. Accessing medical care in Iraq can be difficult and lengthy, leading some to seek treatment abroad if they can afford it. Hospital emergency rooms dealing with a surge of casualties from bombings and shootings often face staffing shortages and overwhelming conditions. A recent United Nations report highlighted a concerning rise in attacks on professionals such as teachers, doctors, artists, lawyers, ex-military officers, and journalists. The report attributed these attacks to extremists promoting conformist ideology and militant/terror groups aiming to instill fear and intimidation. The report also noted a connection between a growing climate of Islamic extremism and attacks on academics. Asam Rifaat, a 38-year-old criminal lawyer in the affluent Mansour district of Baghdad, shared his decision to leave Iraq with his wife and two children due to the challenging conditions in the city. He stated that the city has become a place for deceased individuals, and he is not prepared for his kids to grow up without parents. He expressed his inability to work for justice in a country where militias operate outside the law, collaborating with the police to carry out numerous killings weekly. He believes they are living in a lawless society, where he fears for his safety every time he leaves his home, especially for the well-being of his children. His wife, a teacher, has decided to give up her job to care for their children. Salim al-Taie, a former army officer, 45, residing in Amriya in western Baghdad with his wife and three children aged five to 12, expresses his concern for his safety every time he leaves for work. He admits to becoming emotional and crying when he sees urgent news on television about bombs until he returns home. According to him, the last four years have brought significant negative changes to Baghdad, with a lack of respect for the law being a major issue. He mentioned that life in Baghdad resembles living in a city controlled by organized crime, where anyone can be murdered without cause. He recounted the deaths of two friends who were also former pilots, killed by gunmen. Despite his efforts to remain hopeful, the escalating violence and attacks in the city continue to prove him wrong. Consequently, he made the decision to relocate to Egypt, ceasing his children's attendance at school. Taie expressed that his daughters' tears upon learning they could no longer see their friends deeply affected him, prompting his decision to leave Iraq permanently. He emphasized that he no longer wants to see his children cry, even if it means never returning to Iraq. | 1 |
The initiative was started a decade ago and is expected to be completed by 2015. Although countries support the objectives of reducing global poverty, wealthy nations facing challenges such as high unemployment and increasing debt prefer to shift the discussion towards achieving the most effective outcomes from anti-poverty initiatives. | 1 |
German Chancellor Angela Merkel was successful in persuading her fellow leaders at a meeting in Hamburg to agree on a unified communique covering various topics such as trade, finance, energy, and Africa. However, there was a clear divide between US President Donald Trump, who prioritizes "America First", and the other 19 members of the group. Trump's recent decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord further highlighted this divide. Merkel noted that the negotiations on climate showcased disagreement, with all members except the United States opposing Trump's stance. Greenpeace activists protested at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany by displaying a large statue of US President Donald Trump in front of the Elbphilharmonie concert hall on July 7, 2017. The summit was marked by difficult trade negotiations, with the United States taking specific positions that caused challenges. The event brought together various leaders amidst a changing global political landscape, with Trump's shift to more unilateral diplomacy creating uncertainty among traditional allies in Europe and allowing rising powers like China to play a larger role. Tensions between Washington and Beijing were high leading up to the summit, with the Trump administration pressuring President Xi Jinping on North Korea and threatening trade measures on steel. During their first meeting in Hamburg, Trump and Putin discussed allegations of Russian interference in the election and Trump seemed to accept Putin's denials. Prior to the summit, Trump had criticized Russia's actions in Ukraine and Syria, but in Hamburg he took a more friendly approach, focusing on building future relations rather than dwelling on past issues. Russia's President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump had a significant meeting at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on July 7, 2017. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson described the meeting as important, with a positive chemistry between Trump and Putin. Trump seemed satisfied with Putin's denials of meddling in the US election. The final communique noted the US decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord, which the other 19 leaders declared as irreversible. The United States included a controversial line stating that it would work with other countries to access and use fossil fuels more cleanly and efficiently, prompting French President Emmanuel Macron to lead efforts to soften the language. Thomas Bernes, a distinguished fellow at the Centre for International Governance Innovation, pointed out that there is a clear consensus among all countries except for the United States. However, he also raised concerns about the limitations of moving forward without the participation of the world's largest economy. Jennifer Morgan, executive director of Greenpeace, commended the G19 for standing firm against Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the leaders agreed to combat protectionism and unfair trade practices while acknowledging the importance of legitimate trade defense measures. The leaders also promised to collaborate in promoting economic growth in Africa, which was a major focus for Merkel. Merkel decided to host the summit in Hamburg, her birth city, to demonstrate Germany's welcoming attitude towards the world and its acceptance of peaceful protests. The summit took place near the "Rote Flora," a former theatre that became a symbol of left-wing resistance after being taken over by anti-capitalist squatters almost thirty years ago. During the G20 summit in Hamburg, which lasted three days, violent protesters looted shops and set fire to cars and trucks. More than 200 police officers were injured and approximately 143 individuals were arrested, with 122 being taken into custody. A protester threw a bottle at riot police during protests at the G20 summit in Hamburg, Germany on July 8, 2017. The most significant damage occurred while Merkel was hosting other leaders for a concert and dinner at the Elbphilharmonie, a modern glass concert hall with views of the Elbe River. Following the summit, Merkel expressed gratitude to the police and security forces, denouncing the "unrestrained brutality" of certain protesters. However, she faced challenging questions during her closing press conference about the decision to hold the summit in Hamburg. | 1 |
She made these remarks during a discussion called "Leaders Dialogue: High Level Political Forum-From Vision to Action" at the UN Headquarters in New York on Tuesday. The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of world leaders recognizing and addressing key issues, providing visionary leadership, and committing to achieving common goals for the well-being of our world. She stressed the need for decisions that prioritize the welfare of all individuals and encompass all living species in order to create a sustainable world for future generations. Bangladesh, she said, is focused on the three pillars of sustainable development - economic, social, and environmental - through adaptation and mitigation programs, which are crucial for the country's survival, especially in the face of climate change. Bangladesh faces significant challenges due to its vulnerability to climate change, particularly global warming, which could lead to a rise in sea levels and displacement of millions of people. Sheikh Hasina highlighted Bangladesh's involvement in the Open Working Group for Sustainable Development and its efforts to submit nationally agreed targets for the Post-2015 Development Agenda to the UN. She also emphasized the importance of recognizing the specific needs of least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states in achieving sustainable development goals, as many of these countries are struggling to meet the Millennium Development Goals. According to her, expectations and commitments are both crucial for sustainable development. Bangladesh has achieved success in some MDGs due to its efficient use of resources, local leadership, indigenous capabilities, and innovations. It is important for developed nations to fulfill their pledge of providing 0.7 percent of GNP as Official Development Assistance (ODA) and 0.2 percent of GNP as ODA for the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), as well as transferring technologies to deprived groups. The Prime Minister emphasized how advancements in science and technology are driving socioeconomic progress and bringing states closer together, despite presenting challenges. She also highlighted the importance of making the right choices in utilizing natural and technological resources to address the new challenges of our time. | 1 |
The research will examine the financial benefits Cambridge may have gained from the slave trade and also explore how academic studies may have perpetuated race-based beliefs from the 18th to the early 20th centuries. Estimates suggest that between 10 million and 28 million Africans were transported across the Atlantic as part of the slave trade between the 15th and 19th centuries, with many perishing during the journey and those who survived facing a life of servitude on plantations. The trans-Atlantic slave trade was abolished in Britain in 1807, but slavery itself was not fully abolished until a generation later. Martin Millett, who heads the advisory group overseeing the Cambridge study, mentioned that it is uncertain what the investigation will uncover, but it is reasonable to believe that Cambridge had profited from the slave trade. Millett, a professor of archaeology, stated that it is likely that, like many other British institutions during the colonial era, the University had directly or indirectly benefited from and contributed to the practices of that time. The benefits could have been financial or in the form of other gifts. Additionally, the panel is interested in exploring how scholars at the University may have influenced public and political opinions, either supporting, reinforcing, or challenging racial attitudes that are considered unacceptable in the present day. The inquiry will be carried out by two full-time post-doctoral researchers based in the Centre of African Studies. The research will investigate specific donations, inheritances, and historical ties to the slave trade. It is uncertain what steps Cambridge University will take if it discovers that it benefitted from or supported slavery. Some of the leading universities in the Western world have been analyzing their history and the sources of their wealth. In the US, universities in the South have been facing controversies regarding the confederate flag. In 2017, Yale University changed the name of Calhoun College after protests argued that the school should no longer honor an alumnus who strongly advocated for slavery in the US. Grace Hopper College, named after the computer scientist, was formerly known by another name. In the UK, Oxford University is facing a debate over the removal of a statue of colonialist Cecil Rhodes from one of its colleges. Glasgow University has announced plans for a reparative justice program after discovering it gained a significant amount of money from historical slavery. The vice chancellor of Cambridge, Stephen Toope, believes that it is important to acknowledge and understand the university's role in the dark history of slavery, rather than trying to erase it. However, critics argue that such investigations are driven by a contemporary trend of revisiting past wrongs, often oversimplifying complex issues. Broadly applying these inquiries could call into question various aspects of the early history of ancient institutions. Gill Evans, an emeritus professor at Cambridge University, noted that in the current atmosphere of anti-colonialism, universities feel compelled to examine their historical connections to colonialism. She emphasized the importance of understanding the context of the time before assigning blame, as actions may have been perceived differently in the past. Evans stressed the need for nuance when considering culpability across different time periods. Cambridge University, one of the most ancient universities in the world, can trace its roots back over 800 years to 1209 when scholars from Oxford sought shelter in the city. Oxford University itself has a history dating back to 1096. | 1 |
Democrats are hoping to pass President Joe Biden's infrastructure plan, as well as initiatives for paid family and medical leave and expanded health care, potentially including Medicare. Senate Budget Committee Chairman Sanders expressed optimism about the possibility of new ruling from the parliamentarian opening up more opportunities for Democrats to advance their priorities in Congress. This could include multiple pieces of legislation protected from filibusters through reconciliation, making it easier for Democrats to pass significant budgetary measures despite Republican opposition. The process is filled with challenges, such as strict rules that limit what can be included. Democrats will still need to gather 50 votes for any proposal, which may be difficult for some of their more ambitious ideas. However, this newfound flexibility could make it easier for them to advance their most ambitious goals. It could allow them to break down President Biden's proposals, such as his infrastructure plan, into smaller, more manageable pieces. Activists are also pushing Biden to explore other options, like using reconciliation to provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants living in the United States. It is unclear when and how Democrats will take advantage of this opportunity. However, there is increasing pressure on them to test the limits of what the ruling party can achieve with control of both congressional chambers and the White House. In an interview on Tuesday, Sen Chuck Schumer, the majority leader from New York, described the decision as a significant development that strengthens their position. He did not reveal how this ruling would affect their legislative strategy moving forward, including the passage of President Biden's recent public-works plan. Schumer stated that the caucus would need to come together to discuss the best way to utilize this new opportunity. The initial guidance from parliamentarian Elizabeth MacDonough suggests that Biden and his allies in Congress may have another chance to use the reconciliation process before the end of the fiscal year on Sept 30, as well as in the following fiscal year. Lawmakers may need to seek further clarification from MacDonough on how to proceed. However, her choice has lifted the spirits of some activists who have been advocating for Biden and Democrats to be more forceful in using their power to push through significant policy changes. These activists are expected to increase the pressure on the White House and prominent Democrats in the coming weeks to utilize this new tool. Democrats believe that the ruling could immediately offer more flexibility in passing Biden's proposed $4 trillion economic investment plans, which include initiatives such as rebuilding electric grids, combatting climate change, reducing poverty, and supporting women in the workforce. Since Biden's election, his team has been focused on preparing for various scenarios to advance his agenda in Congress, which includes trillions of dollars in new government spending partially funded by tax hikes on corporations and wealthy individuals. Following the Democrats' victory in the Georgia runoff elections in January, reconciliation has become a central component of many of these plans. The Biden administration initially saw using reconciliation as a way to avoid Republican opposition to pandemic aid and to further his economic agenda. However, the process has not worked for all priorities, as the parliamentarian removed a provision to raise the minimum wage. Activists argue that legalizing some unauthorized immigrants could impact the budget, but it is uncertain if the parliamentarian would allow it. Schumer and Sanders have not decided on a strategy for reusing reconciliation, and Sanders acknowledges that prioritizing legislative goals is a challenging task. Despite this, White House officials maintain that Biden is dedicated to reaching a bipartisan agreement with Republicans on his infrastructure plan. Business organizations are also keen to negotiate an agreement on the matter, despite their and Republicans' firm opposition to Biden's suggested tax hikes. The White House press secretary, Jen Psaki, informed reporters on Tuesday that Biden still believes there is a possibility for a bipartisan solution. However, she did not rule out the option of moving the bill through a more partisan process, such as reconciliation, leaving the decision to Congressional leaders. Currently, less than a week after unveiling the American Jobs Plan, the focus is on engaging with both Democrats and Republicans, as well as staff and committee members, and inviting lawmakers to the White House next week. Lobbyists and congressional staff members anticipate that Biden will give Senate moderates a brief opportunity to try to reach a bipartisan agreement on the plan, with the understanding that if no deal is reached quickly, he will move on. Psaki stated that Biden hopes to see progress on Capitol Hill by May and a finalized package by the summer. Some administration officials privately acknowledge the challenges of passing Biden's agenda without using reconciliation, as any compromise would require at least 10 Republican votes to overcome a Senate filibuster. A group of that size has already begun negotiations with Biden on his proposed $1.9 trillion economic aid package. The Republicans responded with a $600 billion proposal, but Democrats rejected it as inadequate. Biden proceeded with his own plan, bypassing Republican resistance to pass a $1.9 trillion bill through reconciliation. | 1 |
The UN climate talks began in Poland with calls for immediate action to combat global warming despite the economic slowdown. There were warnings that failure to act could lead to water shortages for half the world by 2050. US President-elect Barack Obama was praised for his ambitious goals in fighting climate change. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of prioritizing environmental efforts regardless of economic conditions. The talks in Poznan mark the halfway point in a two-year push to reach a new climate treaty to succeed the Kyoto Protocol. Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen emphasized the importance of not letting the financial crisis detract from addressing urgent issues like climate change. He will be hosting a meeting in Copenhagen in late 2009 to finalize a UN deal. Head of the UN Climate Panel, Rajendra Pachauri, warned that many people are not fully aware of the potential risks of inaction, which could lead to irreversible changes. For example, he noted that the number of people living in river valleys with water stress could potentially increase from 1.1 billion in 1995 to 4.3 billion in 2050. Pachauri also highlighted the possibility of the Greenland icecap melting and the increasing risk of extinction for various species of animals and plants. Yvo de Boer, the leader of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, emphasized the urgency of increasing efforts to reach an agreement by the following year. He stressed that work needed to accelerate in order to meet the deadline. The WWF distributed walnuts to conference attendees, encouraging them to find a solution to the climate crisis. Greenpeace revealed a large sculpture depicting the planet in danger from a wave of wood and coal. Rasmussen commended Obama's policies, highlighting the contrast with previous disagreements with President George W. Bush. He expressed his pleasure in Obama's ambitious climate and energy policies as a way to address the economic slowdown. De Boer also praised Obama's ambitious policies on Sunday. Obama aims to reduce US greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, which are currently 14 percent higher than 1990 levels due to the burning of fossil fuels in factories, power plants, and cars. In contrast, Bush's policies only anticipate a peak in emissions by 2025. In Europe, concerns about the expenses associated with the EU's target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent below 1990 levels by 2020 have been brought to light by the economic slowdown. Poland, a country that heavily relies on coal for electricity production, and Italy are spearheading efforts to secure concessions in a deal that is expected to be finalized at a summit of EU leaders in Brussels on December 11-12. | 1 |
In Brussels on Friday, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urged the audience to see crises as opportunities for positive change, particularly in rebuilding economies in a more environmentally friendly way. She also criticized the use of energy as a political tool, highlighting Europe's concerns over potential gas export disruptions from Russia. Clinton emphasized the importance of seizing the moment during times of global economic turmoil to make positive impacts on climate change and energy security. Europe views the United States as a key partner in climate negotiations, especially with President Obama's commitment to addressing climate change in contrast to his predecessor. Europe has plans to reduce carbon emissions, while Obama has proposed a shift towards renewable energy and a cap and trade system for CO2 emissions. However, with numerous countries experiencing a severe recession, there are doubts about whether businesses can find the necessary funds to reduce carbon emissions, according to Clinton, who criticized the United States for not fulfilling its obligations. She believes that now is an opportune time to show a commitment to addressing this issue. Many politicians believe that the economic crisis, energy security concerns, and climate change can all be addressed through a "New Green Deal" that would involve replacing high-carbon infrastructure with green alternatives and creating jobs. Clinton emphasized the importance of addressing both energy security and climate change together. She criticized the use of energy as a political weapon, citing concerns in Europe following disputes between Russia and Ukraine that affected EU supplies. She expressed disapproval of using energy for intimidation, stating that it hinders the development of a more efficient energy system. Clinton is scheduled to have dinner with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in Geneva to improve relations after tensions during Bush's presidency. The reduction in Russian gas exports in January led to the shutdown of facilities and left many households without heating in Eastern Europe. A potential conflict between Ukraine and Russia was seemingly avoided on Thursday when Gazprom, a state-owned company, announced that Ukraine had resolved the payment issue that had caused tension. However, European leaders were concerned about the threat of supply cuts from Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. | 1 |
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou returned to China from Canada on Friday after coming to an agreement with US prosecutors to resolve the bank fraud case against her, a source of tension between China and the United States. Shortly after the deal was announced, the two Canadians who were detained following Meng's arrest were released from Chinese prisons and were heading back to Canada. Beijing had denied any connection between the arrests. White House press secretary Jen Psaki denied any involvement by the White House in brokering a "prisoner swap," stating that the deferred prosecution agreement with Meng was carried out by the independent Department of Justice. "This is a matter for law enforcement," she stated, clarifying that there is no connection. However, Psaki also verified that Xi Jinping of China mentioned Meng's case in a call on Sept 9, two weeks before the official announcements. During the call, US President Joe Biden advocated for the release of the two Canadians, Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig, who had been detained in China for over 1,000 days. Psaki emphasized that the leaders discussed the individuals' cases, but there were no negotiations. She mentioned that she was not aware if Biden was informed about the ongoing negotiations between Meng's lawyers and the Justice Department. Meng was arrested in Canada on a US warrant and faced charges of bank and wire fraud for allegedly deceiving HSBC in 2013 regarding the company's business dealings in Iran. The extradition drama that lasted for years had caused tension between Beijing and Washington, with Chinese officials suggesting that dropping the case could help resolve the diplomatic standoff. Psaki clarified that the recent deal does not mean the US is easing its concerns about China's actions. She stated that the US policy towards China remains unchanged, emphasizing that the relationship is one of competition and that China will still be held responsible for its unfair economic practices, coercive actions, and human rights violations. In September, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Biden's climate envoy John Kerry that the United States needed to take concrete actions to improve relations by addressing a list of demands, one of which was dropping the case against Meng. According to a Chinese statement, Wang stated that the United States now has the responsibility to respond. However, US officials have denied any claims that Kerry or other administration officials had discussed releasing Meng in exchange for other concessions with China. Earlier in the week, Xi announced at the United Nations that China would not construct new coal-fired power projects abroad, a commitment Kerry had been pushing for to help achieve the goals of the Paris climate agreement. A White House official emphasized that the United States had no involvement in China's decision-making process regarding this matter. "The primary reason for the movement on coal, according to the official, is China looking out for its own interests," he explained. "They likely understood that they wouldn't gain anything by holding onto it and using it as leverage." Meng received a warm reception upon her return to China, with the official media hinting that her release could potentially improve strained US-China relations. Despite some Republican senators condemning the Biden administration for bowing to Beijing's pressure, analysts argued that this criticism was unfounded. Bonnie Glaser, an Asia expert at the German Marshall Fund of the United States, believes that the agreement for Meng's release was discussed during the Trump administration. She stated that Meng had to admit to wrongdoing, which she eventually did. Glaser does not view this as capitulation. The Justice Department is currently getting ready for a trial against Huawei. | 1 |
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