body
stringlengths 6
42.2k
| labels
int64 0
6
|
|---|---|
The event, which included a joint fly-past of fighter jets from two countries representing military collaboration in the Middle East and other regions, followed a series of meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron, a tour of Paris for the first ladies, and a dinner for the four individuals at a restaurant in the Eiffel Tower. Trump tweeted about the enjoyable evening and expressed that the relationship between the US and France is stronger than ever. These ceremonies mark the conclusion of Macron's visit, which was aimed at bolstering France's global reputation and potentially helping a US leader who may be lacking international allies due to his positions on free trade and climate change. Trump, who is also facing an investigation into potential Russian interference in the 2016 US election, hinted on Thursday that he may consider further discussions on the Paris accord, which he withdrew the United States from earlier this year. Macron arrived at the event in a military jeep surrounded by cavalry, echoing a similar display during his inauguration two months prior and emphasizing France's military strength. The event also underscored a recent dispute between Macron and General Pierre de Villers over defense budget cuts. During the parade, both leaders sat together, applauding and gesturing as military aircraft flew overhead. Trump saluted as soldiers, some in World War One uniforms, marched past with the Arc de Triomphe in the background. This year's Bastille Day holds special significance for France as it marks the first anniversary of one of the deadliest Islamist militant attacks in recent years. Following the parade, President Macron will travel to Nice to participate in a ceremony honoring the 86 individuals who lost their lives when a Tunisian man drove a truck into a crowd on the waterfront last year. | 1 |
The United Nations will be observing its annual World Day to Combat Desertification on Sunday, known as 'World Desertification Day'. The focus this year is on the theme ''desertification and climate change—one global challenge'' in order to raise awareness about the dangers of desertification and the importance of prevention. Experts have warned that nearly a fifth of the world's population is directly or indirectly threatened by desertification. Countries such as China, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Argentina, Brazil, and Chile are particularly at risk. In Bangladesh, some non-governmental organizations are planning to observe the day, as government initiatives to address the issue have been lacking. Abu Sumon, who serves as the director of the Wetland and Coastal Biodiversity Project within the Department of Environment, has highlighted the alarming impact of global warming this year. He has also identified desertification as a side-effect of global warming, noting the discovery of plants growing in harsh environments as evidence of desertification in the northern region of the country. Sumon has pointed out the Barindra land as having the hardest soil in the country and emphasized the decreasing underground water level as a recent phenomenon directly linked to the issue. The United Nations has issued a warning that global warming is contributing to the spread of dry, barren land, potentially displacing millions of people in the future. The UN's leading authority on global warming has highlighted the harsh impacts of rising temperatures on rainfall patterns, snowmelt runoff, and river flows in many countries already facing water scarcity. By 2080, an estimated 80 to 200 million more people could be at risk of hunger due to climate change, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) reports that 70 percent of the world's agricultural drylands, totaling 5.2 billion hectares, are currently degraded and under threat from desertification. These vulnerable lands are increasingly susceptible to overgrazing, deforestation, and other forms of exploitation, exacerbated by the impacts of climate change. The United Nations body stated that desertification is growing rapidly and, despite being aware of the severe environmental and social impacts for some time, this problem has not been given the appropriate amount of attention at national, regional, and international levels. | 1 |
Mitch McConnell, the Majority Leader, stated that the Senate will not consider any nominee to replace Justice Antonin Scalia until after the next president takes office in January. McConnell, who has been a vocal opponent of President Obama, said he would not even meet with the nominee chosen by Obama. According to the US Constitution, the Senate has the authority to approve or reject a president's Supreme Court pick. Republicans are hoping to delay the nomination process until after the presidential election in November, in the hopes that a Republican will be elected and able to fill Scalia's vacancy. McConnell stated that the nomination for the Supreme Court vacancy will be determined by the winner of the presidency in the upcoming fall election. He also mentioned that Senate Republicans overwhelmingly believe that the current president should not fill the vacancy. If Obama's nominee is approved, it could shift the court's balance to the left for the first time in many years. Scalia's passing has left the court evenly split between liberals and conservatives. The intense battle over a Supreme Court vacancy has not been seen since the controversial nominations of Robert Bork in 1987 and Clarence Thomas in 1991 by Republican presidents. Obama has not yet revealed his pick for the nomination. The White House and Senate Democrats criticized McConnell's position, with Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid calling it "obstruction on steroids" and lamenting the lack of compromise. McConnell and other congressional Republicans have consistently opposed various Obama initiatives, such as the healthcare law, Iran nuclear deal, immigration policy, and climate change efforts. McConnell referenced a previous statement by Vice President Joe Biden to support the Supreme Court's decision not to act. McConnell pointed out that Biden, while serving as Senate Judiciary Committee chairman in 1992, suggested delaying action on Supreme Court nominees during an election year. Biden later clarified that he was speaking hypothetically because there was no Supreme Court vacancy at the time. McConnell's decision came after Chairman Chuck Grassley and other Republican members of the Judiciary Committee informed him in a letter that the panel would not hold confirmation hearings, despite Grassley previously considering the possibility. Republican senators emphasized the importance of allowing the American people to engage in a thorough debate before the Nov 8 presidential election on the type of judge who will decide crucial issues. If the Senate delays consideration of a nominee until a new president is in office, it is unlikely that the Supreme Court will have all nine justices until early 2017. This would leave the court understaffed for over a year, hindering its decision-making process. In cases where there is a tie vote, lower court rulings stand and no national precedent is established. Reid believes that the Republican party's strategy is influenced by its right wing, specifically mentioning Donald Trump and Ted Cruz as examples. Reid stated that Senate Democrats would not block legislation, such as appropriations bills, in retaliation for Republican inaction, in order to avoid becoming known as the "obstruct caucus." White House spokesperson Josh Earnest expressed concern that denying a hearing for Obama's nominee would subject the Supreme Court to unprecedented political influence. Earnest pointed out that since 1875, a president's nominee has never been denied a hearing unless the nomination was later withdrawn. McConnell emphasized that while presidents have the right to nominate, the Senate also has the right to provide or withhold consent, and in this case, the Senate will withhold it. Schumer, a Senate Democratic leader, believed that Republican opposition would weaken as voters pressure vulnerable Republican Senate incumbents up for re-election to consider Obama's nominee. Schumer criticized Senate Republicans for their risky and ultimately unsuccessful strategy, while Senator Orrin Hatch defended their stance, emphasizing the importance of standing for a principle that should be resolved by the next president. The Democrats are at a disadvantage in the Senate with only 46 seats compared to the Republicans' 54 seats. | 1 |
Finance leaders from the top industrialised nations came together in Tokyo and expressed solidarity in the face of an economic slowdown. They acknowledged that the situation could worsen due to the deteriorating US housing market. Despite a communique stating that economic growth prospects had declined since their last meeting in October, they maintained that the fundamentals were strong and the US economy was likely to avoid a recession. Italian Economy Minister Tommaso Padoa-Schioppa noted a higher level of pessimism and concern compared to the previous meeting. The finance ministers and central bankers from Japan, the United States, Canada, Britain, Germany, Italy, and France agreed that economic growth in their countries was expected to slow to varying degrees in the short term. They highlighted the serious risks posed by the US property market downturn and the resulting credit tightening, which has hampered the flow of money to consumers and businesses that drive the global economy. Banks burdened with debt are reducing their lending due to increasing losses, mainly from failing U.S. home loans exceeding $100 billion. This has led to concerns about a harmful cycle as consumer spending decreases, causing businesses to downsize and lay off employees. Glenn Maguire, Asia Pacific chief economist at Societe Generale in Hong Kong, pointed out that the G7 did not provide much detail on coordinating efforts to support the economy. He stated that the economic crisis and downturn are mainly due to domestic issues in the U.S. and cannot be solved with a globally coordinated plan. U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson warned that global markets may experience a lengthy period of instability. In prepared remarks issued after the meeting, Paulson stated that the current financial crisis is severe and ongoing. He also mentioned that as the financial markets recover from this stressful period, there may be continued volatility due to the repricing of risk. The G7 leaders urged banks to disclose their losses fully and strengthen their balance sheets in order to help restore the normal functioning of markets. German finance minister Peer Steinbrueck estimated that writeoffs could amount to $400 billion. The leaders stated in their communique that they will closely monitor developments and take appropriate actions, both individually and collectively, to ensure stability and growth in their economies. Promises to collaborate in order to revive the financial system were met with disagreements regarding fiscal and monetary policies leading up to the G7 meeting. Concerns arose in Europe about the U.S. Federal Reserve's drastic interest rate cuts and fiscal stimulus package, which raised fears of a split between the U.S. and its allies. However, tensions eased after the European Central Bank indicated its willingness to potentially lower rates, aligning with other central banks. French Economy Minister Christine Lagarde praised the ECB's move but expressed a desire for further actions. European leaders were especially worried about the euro's strength against the dollar, as it reached a new high following the Fed's rate cuts in September. However, the currency's value decreased after the ECB changed its stance. Foreign exchange issues were not a priority at Saturday's meeting due to more urgent economic concerns. The communique echoed the October statement, emphasizing the need for China to allow its currency to appreciate. Some G7 leaders believe that China's undervalued currency gives them an unfair advantage in trade, and are urging Beijing to increase domestic investment to help rebalance the global economy. The announcement also encouraged oil producers to increase their production levels following a brief period where oil prices exceeded $100 per barrel last month. Despite a subsequent decrease, prices rose by 4 percent to $91.77 on Friday, marking their largest increase in almost two months, due to supply disruptions and the approaching cold weather in the United States. | 1 |
Ministers stated on Saturday that the European Union is not likely to increase its commitment to reducing carbon emissions by 30 percent from 20 percent unless other countries demonstrate a greater willingness to do the same. The EU has a target of cutting carbon dioxide (CO2) by 20 percent from 1990 levels over the next decade. Prior to climate talks in Copenhagen in December, the EU pledged to deepen those cuts to 30 percent if other countries also agreed to do so. The United Nations has set a deadline of Jan. 31 for countries to commit to emissions cuts, but the EU does not see any indication that major economies will establish comparable targets by that time. Spanish Secretary of State for Climate Change Teresa Ribera stated to journalists after a meeting of EU environment ministers in Seville, Spain, that it is unlikely that the 30 percent commitment will be achieved. The decision was widely anticipated and the EU, responsible for 14 percent of global CO2 emissions, is eager to take the lead in climate talks following its marginalization at the previous year's meeting in Copenhagen. Environmentalists had urged the EU to set a more ambitious target to set an example. The possibility of a 30 percent cut in emissions is not off the table, pending concessions from other countries. The nominee for European climate commissioner, Connie Hedegaard, expressed hope that the EU's conditions for increasing the target would be met before the upcoming meeting in Mexico. Before the Copenhagen talks, the United Nations had requested that affluent countries decrease their emissions by 25-40 percent by 2020 in order to limit the average increase in global temperatures to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. | 1 |
Bhupesh Baghel, the chief minister of Chhattisgarh, a state in eastern India, stated that the government's plan is to train local women in the production and sale of clean energy, as the state aims to move away from coal. Baghel acknowledged the global shift towards green energy and emphasized the importance of finding alternative energy sources while still recognizing coal's role in meeting the state's energy needs. He mentioned that the decision to transition away from coal was made with the future of the people, particularly the indigenous population, in mind, as well as the protection of forests and biodiversity. India is a major player in the coal industry, being the world's second-largest importer, consumer, and producer of coal, with significant reserves located in Chhattisgarh. India announced at the COP26 climate summit last year its goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and increase the proportion of renewables in its energy mix to 50% by 2030. To address poverty in Chhattisgarh, the government implemented a circular economy plan in 2020 which aims to create jobs, raise incomes, and establish a sustainable rural economy through initiatives such as industrial parks and supporting women's groups in producing and selling natural products. Recently, cow dung was included as a source of energy in this program, with villagers receiving payment for collecting dung which is then processed into various products like organic compost, fuel, and herbal colors for local festivals. Baghel stated that the initiatives in Chhattisgarh address various issues such as reducing stray cattle, creating livelihood opportunities, and promoting environmental sustainability. The government has established 8,000 gouthans in villages where cow dung is processed into products and plans to use it for power generation. Despite India's reliance on coal until 2024, Baghel has refused to open new mines in the Hasdeo Arand region, emphasizing the need for a long-term plan. The state has partnered with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre to set up 500 biogas plants in gouthan spaces, each capable of powering over 2,500 homes daily. Depending on the amount of cow dung collected, the plants will either be permanent installations or small mobile units. Baghel stated, "We will essentially create power right at their doorstep." While awaiting approval for proposed solar power projects, the state plans to generate energy from cow dung round-the-clock. Women will be trained to operate and maintain the digesters that convert animal waste into biogas. This gas will be used for cooking and electricity production, which will be distributed through a micro-grid to the local area. The generated power will be supplied to rural industries and households, used for street lighting, and any excess will be added to the state electricity grid. Baghel stated that by decentralising power generation and distribution, it would allow easy access to everyone, including indigenous communities who typically struggle to access electricity. He also mentioned that this approach would create green jobs and improve lives. Baghel's ultimate goal is to generate cash from cow dung, drawing inspiration from Hindu scriptures and his childhood in a village. Self-reliance and giving back to nature are key components of his plan. G V Ramanjaneyulu, executive director of the Centre for Sustainable Agriculture, supported this approach, noting that it would expand energy access and address agricultural waste. He emphasized that decentralised energy is beneficial and using dung as a source is practical and profitable. In accordance with the initial plan of the Indian government to transition away from coal in regions where mines have closed, Baghel's administration aims to assist workers in developing new skills for eco-tourism or fish-farming enterprises. Baghel stated, "We are demonstrating the profitability of alternative employment opportunities to people. By providing incentives, they are embracing these changes, and progress will ensue." | 1 |
Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda will meet with Russia's outgoing and incoming presidents on Saturday to seek support for a new global initiative to reduce greenhouse gases. The meeting will briefly touch on a territorial dispute over four islands in the Pacific, but the main focus will be on finding a replacement for the Kyoto Protocol on climate change. Fukuda's visit aims to establish a personal relationship of trust with President Putin and president-elect Medvedev, and to prepare for the upcoming G8 summit in Japan. Tokyo is optimistic that the G8 summit will facilitate the creation of a climate change agreement that includes major polluters like the United States, China, and India, none of which have agreed to the emissions limits outlined in the Kyoto Protocol. Russia, a member of the G8, was one of the largest emerging economies to commit to the Kyoto Protocol. Japanese officials are hopeful that Russia will endorse a new agreement in Hokkaido. The disputed islands, referred to as the Southern Kuriles in Russia and the Northern Territories in Japan, are located near the venue of the G8 summit in Hokkaido. Personal relationships between Russia and Japan have been strained since Soviet troops seized disputed islands in the final days of World War Two. The issue of sovereignty over the islands has hindered the two countries from signing a treaty to formally end wartime hostilities. Prime Minister Fukuda plans to urge Russian leaders to speed up negotiations to resolve the territorial dispute, emphasizing the importance of advancing talks in order to improve bilateral relations. While Russia has expressed willingness to discuss the issue, they have not shown any indication of being willing to relinquish control of the islands. A Kremlin official stated that their position remains unchanged and they are not anticipating any progress in the discussions with Fukuda. Trade between Russia and Japan reached $20 billion in 2007, driven by companies like Toyota Motor Corp establishing factories to access the growing Russian market. However, trade volume is much lower compared to Russia's trade with the European Union. Japan sees itself as a suitable partner to assist Russia in developing its Far East region, which is rich in energy resources and is largely underpopulated. Japanese companies have invested in extensive oil and gas projects on Russia's Sakhalin island in the Pacific, and there is currently a pipeline being built to transport oil from eastern Siberia to the Pacific coast. | 1 |
Ian Shippen, a 42-year-old former rice farmer with spiked hair, is considered a rural prophet in the arid salt plains located 1,000 kilometres west of Sydney. He believes that the ongoing drought in Australia's food bowl will bring about permanent changes in agriculture in the driest settled continent in the world. Shippen predicts a return to traditional farming methods from a century ago, focusing on growing broadacre areas and raising sheep. He expressed his concerns about large areas of land becoming unproductive, with one sheep needing 5 to 6 acres to graze. Shippen believes that the current drought will have a significant impact on agriculture in the region. Shippen, along with many others, is trying to find solutions to overcome the drought by taking a risk and transitioning from irrigated cropping. Nine years ago, he cultivated rice on 2,000 acres of previously dry land that was irrigated with water from the eastern Australian alps, a long drive away. Shippen and his wife, Camilla, who is the daughter of a city doctor, predicted a shift in conditions as a prolonged dry period began and water prices started to rise, altering the economics of irrigation. Shippen believes that the increasing cost of water has transformed it from an asset to a liability. Shippen explains that farmers who sell their water will end up with a large area of land that is dry. He is a respected local councillor among other farmers, who are observing his method of selling water licenses to purchase more land. Shippen initially owned a few thousand acres but now possesses over 180,000 acres, supporting 45,000 sheep and lambs, 8,000 cattle, and holds A$10 million ($8.2 million) in bank debt. This debt requires annual interest payments of A$900,000, putting pressure on incomes during the drought. Shippen emphasizes the impact of debt, stating that it forces them to work tirelessly to meet the demands of the bankers. He discusses this while speaking to Reuters on the porch of his large home surrounded by white flowers. Shippen sees opportunity in the midst of drought despite the nervousness about the upcoming summer and the potential loss of crops and stock sales. He believes that there will be cheap farms available for those who can hold on, highlighting the competitive nature of farmers. Shippen identifies the shift in water politics as the most significant change, as Australian governments recognize the importance of conserving water in the face of a possible permanent climate change. Shippen laments that due to the current boom in commodities and the sale of Australian resources to China, farmers have lost their political influence to advocate for national projects such as redirecting coastal rivers westward to potentially mitigate future droughts. He expresses his frustration by stating that farmers, who make up only 2 percent of the population, feel irrelevant and expendable. Shippen explains that as a result, they are forced to sell livestock, use wheat for hay, sell crops for food, reduce their workforce, and hope they can endure the challenging circumstances. | 1 |
The United States has issued a travel alert warning Americans about the risks of traveling to Kenya due to a recent surge in political violence following the disputed re-election of President Mwai Kibaki. The State Department highlighted that the situation in Kenya is volatile and can change quickly, with protests and clashes leading to fatalities. As a precaution, some U.S. officials have been relocated from Kisumu to Nairobi. The State Department emphasized the potential for spontaneous violence in Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Naivasha. The warning advised American citizens to refrain from traveling to specific cities and areas outside of Nairobi. It also cautioned them to be ready for potential conflicts between law enforcement and protesters or rival groups of protesters. The alert emphasized that even peaceful demonstrations could escalate into violence, and advised Americans to steer clear of any protests, demonstrations, or large public gatherings. | 1 |
Shehabuddin Kislu reports from New York that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina presented a five-point plan to achieve a hunger-free world at a seminar on food security at the United Nations Headquarters. Hasina emphasized the need for the UN to offer more effective assistance to member countries facing natural disasters such as floods and droughts. She called for support in improving health and education services to better cope with these challenges. Hasina expressed her backing for the food security proposal put forth by the UN Task Force. The prime minister's recommendations for achieving food self-sufficiency include implementing operations with integrated planning, securing multinational funds, fulfilling financial commitments, and ensuring fair food distribution nationally and internationally. She also proposed initiating and managing food security initiatives involving various organizations, including the private sector and civil society. The prime minister noted that Bangladesh achieved food self-sufficiency in 1996 under the Awami League government and aims to do so again. She emphasized that ensuring food security for all is a top priority for her administration. The prime minister highlighted that recurrent droughts, tidal surges, and tropical storms due to climate change continue to pose challenges to achieving food security goals. She mentioned that the government is working hard to guarantee food security by offering various subsidies. She also pointed out that Bangladesh has received recognition from the UN for achieving food self-sufficiency. Ban emphasized in his speech that there are a billion hungry people in the world today, and the distribution of food is uneven globally. He stressed the importance of showing support to nations and communities facing food insecurity by building on existing principles and creating a plan of action to achieve concrete results. The situation was described as highly deplorable by the UN chief, who expressed hope that the task force would effectively address the issue. Clinton welcomed the gathering at the UN as an opportunity to exchange ideas and work together against a major challenge, noting that "this is an issue that affects all of us." She mentioned that the US has pledged at least $3.5 billion over the next three years to enhance agriculture worldwide, with efforts guided by five principles including addressing the root causes of hunger and improving coordination at various levels. She emphasized the interconnectedness of global food security and peacekeeping. | 1 |
Less than a month after an independent inquiry commissioned by the World Bank found that she had a significant role in tampering with the 2018 Doing Business survey, a decision was made regarding her leadership of the IMF. The inquiry raised concerns about her judgment and ability to lead the organization, but the IMF's executive board ultimately decided that there was not enough evidence to prove she had acted improperly. The board reaffirmed its confidence in her leadership and ability to perform her duties effectively, citing her commitment to upholding high standards of governance and integrity. Despite the controversy, Georgieva, a Bulgarian economist, had strong support from many IMF shareholders, including France, who had advocated for her appointment in 2019. The United States, as the largest shareholder of the fund, did not publicly support Kristalina Georgieva after allegations were made against her, but did not call for her removal. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen had a conversation with Georgieva, acknowledging concerns raised by the World Bank investigation into her actions. Yellen stated that without further evidence of Georgieva's involvement in data manipulation, there was no reason to change leadership at the fund. This decision may have political consequences for the Biden administration, as both Republicans and Democrats in Congress had urged Yellen to ensure full accountability following reports that Georgieva had instructed staff to prevent China's ranking from dropping in a report on national business climates. The Biden administration and lawmakers from both parties have expressed concerns about China's increasing economic power and influence in international organizations. Officials at the Treasury Department have been discussing the seriousness of the situation for weeks, maintaining publicly that the investigation into Georgieva's actions at the World Bank should proceed as planned. The World Bank's Doing Business report evaluates the business environment in countries worldwide, with developing nations relying on their rankings to attract foreign investment. During the time of the alleged manipulation, World Bank officials were preoccupied with negotiations for a capital increase and were under pressure to avoid upsetting China, which was ranked 78th in 2017 and was expected to drop in the 2018 report. The investigation revealed that Jim Yong Kim's staff, including Georgieva, worked to boost China's ranking without negatively impacting other countries. Georgieva was actively involved in these efforts, even reprimanding the bank's China director for mishandling the relationship. The IMF's executive board recently interviewed officials from WilmerHale, the law firm behind the investigation, as well as Georgieva herself, who defended her actions and criticized the investigation process. Georgieva stated that the WilmerHale Report does not accurately represent her actions in relation to Doing Business 2018, nor does it accurately reflect her character or her conduct throughout her lengthy professional career. She expressed gratitude to the IMF board for their confidence in her leadership after a thorough review of the allegations. "Trust and integrity have been the foundation of the multinational companies that I have dedicatedly worked for for over forty years." © 2021 The New York Times Company. | 1 |
The embassy in Dhaka stated that Sweden would be increasing aid to the Palestinians after recognizing their state, a move that was praised by the Palestinian president and criticized by Israel. Sweden is the first long-term EU state to recognize Palestine, following their Prime Minister's announcement of support for a two-state solution. The decision was made based on international law criteria being met, with the aim of facilitating peace talks and creating a future where Israel and Palestine can coexist peacefully. The Palestinians have long sought statehood in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem and Gaza, with previous recognition from about 100 countries. The UN upgraded their status to a "non-member observer state" in 2012. The Swedish Foreign Minister stated that the decision was made to bring a new dynamic to the stalled peace process, with hopes that other EU countries would follow suit. Additionally, Sweden adopted a five-year aid strategy with increased support for Palestinian state-building and humanitarian assistance, aiming to empower women, promote democracy, human rights, and gender equality in Palestine. | 1 |
Italian authorities in Sicily made numerous arrests of Mafia suspects on Tuesday, as part of a continuing effort to dismantle the organized crime group. Interior Minister Giuliano Amato stated that the government's actions are making a significant impact in Sicily, disrupting the criminal clans. Among the 70 individuals being arrested is Enzo Santapaola, the son of a notorious mob boss in Catania, Benedetto "Nitto" Santapaola. The suspects are facing charges of extortion, drug trafficking, and other offenses. This operation is the latest in a series of crackdowns on the Sicilian Mafia, including the recent capture of Salvatore Lo Piccolo, the "boss of bosses," who had been evading authorities for nearly 25 years. Judges think that Lo Piccolo took control of the Cosa Nostra after Bernardo Provenzano was caught in 2006. Another significant Mafia boss, who was among Italy's top 30 most wanted criminals, was fatally shot by police on Monday while attempting to evade arrest. | 1 |
The key themes of the 193-member General Assembly agenda include trade wars, migration, energy supplies, climate change, and poverty eradication. The Trump administration's actions have become a common topic of discussion, with some expressing disdain for international institutions like the United Nations. Veteran US diplomat Jeffrey D Feltman noted that many major topics at the Assembly are related to US policy. Notable absences include Presidents Xi Jinping of China, Vladimir Putin of Russia, Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel, and Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela, who is considered illegitimate by the Trump administration and about 50 other governments. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine is the only prominent figure attending the event, and he plans to meet with President Donald Trump amidst concerns that Trump pressured him over US domestic political issues. The biggest moments and confrontations may occur early in the week. A group of like-minded leaders, including Bolsonaro, Trump, El-Sissi, and Erdogan, will be speaking. Trump, known for his bombastic and controversial style, will be joined by Bolsonaro, who is often compared to him and shares similar views on climate change and social media criticism. Following Trump is President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi of Egypt, a former general known for his role in suppressing the Arab Spring uprisings. President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey, who has been criticized for his authoritarian tendencies and crackdown on journalists, comes next. The United States and Saudi Arabia are expected to continue their campaign against Iran, with hopes of presenting evidence linking Iran to the recent attack on Saudi oil facilities. The possibility of a meeting between Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani has diminished in light of the attack. Iran has denied the accusation made against them. Yemen's Houthi rebels, who receive support from Iran in their fight against a Saudi-led coalition that has been bombing their country for over four years, have claimed responsibility. President Rouhani is expected to speak on Wednesday and is likely to argue that Trump initiated the conflict by pulling out of the 2015 nuclear agreement and imposing harsh sanctions that are damaging the Iranian economy. The United States is working to form a coalition to deter Iran, although it is uncertain what form this deterrence would take. The General Assembly provides an opportunity for the administration to focus on coalition-building and applying political and economic pressure rather than quickly resorting to military action, according to Aaron David Miller, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Washington will not be present at a climate change meeting where about 60 heads of state will speak at the Climate Action Summit to discuss initiatives such as net-zero carbon emissions in buildings. Despite the United States' withdrawal from the Paris Agreement on climate change in 2017, some state governors from the US Climate Alliance will attend the summit and engage with other delegations. Additionally, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is set to meet with Chinese officials on the sidelines, indicating efforts to improve the atmosphere for future trade negotiations between the US and China. Recently, the two governments halted their increasing tariff dispute. However, certain administration officials are advocating for Trump to tackle other topics that are seen as delicate by China. These include the pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong, the suppression of Tibetans, and the detentions of over 1 million Muslims, predominantly ethnic Uighurs. An official suggested that Trump should at least condemn China for attempting to intimidate Uighur-American activists. Trump has not been vocal about human rights issues and has openly admired Xi and other authoritarian figures. Nonetheless, lawmakers from both parties in Congress are urging Trump to take action. The bills concerning the Uighurs, Tibet, and Hong Kong are designed to push Trump and his administration towards taking stronger stances. The leaders of Japan and South Korea are currently not speaking to each other due to a long-standing feud stemming from Japan's wartime occupation, which has resulted in decreased trade relations and the termination of an intelligence-sharing agreement. It is unlikely that Prime Minister Shinzo Abe of Japan and President Moon Jae-in of South Korea will meet. It is uncertain if Trump will be able to bring them together for a three-way conversation. Additionally, progress on the shared goal of North Korea's nuclear disarmament may be limited. During the upcoming General Assembly, Moon is anticipated to encourage Trump to once again prioritize diplomacy with North Korea's leader, Kim Jong Un. However, it is noted that no high-ranking North Korean official will be in attendance. In another matter, pressure will be placed on Europe to impose sanctions on Venezuela's government. Foreign ministers from 18 Western Hemisphere nations, including the United States, are set to meet to discuss potential actions against Maduro, who has overseen a significant economic collapse in Venezuela and a crisis marked by the departure of millions of citizens. The focus will be on urging the European Union to increase economic sanctions on Maduro's supporters, such as freezing their assets in Europe. Additionally, there may be a push for penalties against those involved in smuggling Venezuelan gold into Europe. Despite facing months of calls to step down from an opposition movement led by Juan Guaidó, the president of Venezuela's Parliament, Maduro has managed to hold onto power after claiming victory in disputed elections last year. Negotiations between rival factions in Venezuela came to a halt last week, causing tensions between the United States and Turkey. President Trump and President Erdogan are set to meet, but the results are uncertain. Various challenging issues have caused friction between their governments. The Trump administration is contemplating imposing sanctions on Turkey, a fellow NATO member, for purchasing a Russian S-400 missile defense system instead of American-made Patriots. Erdogan is also increasingly displeased with the United States over their joint operations in northern Syria, which borders Turkey. He states that the Americans have not been successful in creating a secure zone big enough to prevent Kurdish fighters from entering Turkey, who view them as terrorist rebels. Erdogan issued a warning on Saturday that his troops would take independent actions along the border if the United States did not intervene by the end of the month. Afghanistan is the last country to address the General Assembly this year, following the breakdown of talks between the Taliban and the United States to end the long-standing war. President Ashraf Ghani, who is facing national elections next Saturday, was not anticipated to be present. Afghanistan's delegation will be headed by Hamdullah Mohib, the national security adviser to Ashraf, rather than someone else. Mohib angered the Trump administration earlier in March by suggesting that the peace talks would not result in a peaceful resolution. | 1 |
Biden, 78, took the presidential oath of office with his hand on a family heirloom Bible, becoming the oldest US president in history. The inauguration ceremony, which was significantly smaller than usual due to the coronavirus and security concerns following the Capitol assault on Jan. 6, saw Biden vow to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. Outgoing President Donald Trump, who broke tradition by refusing to meet with Biden or attend the inauguration, did not mention Biden by name in his final remarks before leaving for his retreat in Florida. Top Republicans, such as Vice President Mike Pence and the party's congressional leaders, attended Biden's inauguration, along with former US Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Kamala Harris, Biden's running mate and the daughter of immigrants from Jamaica and India, made history by becoming the first Black person, first woman, and first Asian American to serve as vice president. She was sworn in by US Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina member of the court, and used two Bibles, one of which belonged to Thurgood Marshall, the first Black US Supreme Court Justice. Biden takes office during a time of national unease, facing multiple crises including the pandemic, economic downturn, climate change, and racial inequality. He has pledged immediate action, including a series of executive orders on his first day in office. The event on Wednesday took place at a heavily guarded US Capitol, where a group of Trump supporters broke into the building two weeks prior, following his baseless claims of election fraud. This violence led to Trump being impeached for a second time by the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives. After the attack, thousands of National Guard troops were deployed to the city, resulting in five deaths and lawmakers having to hide briefly. Instead of a crowd of supporters, the National Mall was adorned with flags and pillars of light to symbolize people from different US states and territories. Biden, who has promised to heal the country, will address the need for unity in his inaugural speech. His inauguration marks the peak of a fifty-year career in public service, with over thirty years spent in the US Senate and two terms as vice president under former President Barack Obama. Despite his extensive experience, he is now faced with challenges that would test even the most seasoned politician. The pandemic in the United States hit grim milestones on Trump's last day in office, with 400,000 US deaths and 24 million infections - the highest numbers globally. Many Americans are unemployed due to pandemic-related closures and limitations. Biden has promised to use the full resources of the federal government to address the crisis. His main focus is a $1.9 trillion proposal that would improve unemployment benefits and give direct cash payments to households. However, this plan will need to be approved by a Congress that is deeply divided, with Democrats holding slight majorities in both the House and Senate. On Wednesday, Harris was set to swear in three new Democratic senators, resulting in a 50-50 split in the chamber with her as the deciding vote. Biden will quickly move to move past the Trump administration, with advisers indicating that he will sign 15 executive orders on Wednesday covering various issues such as the pandemic, economy, and climate change. These orders will include requiring masks on federal property, rejoining the Paris climate agreement, and ending Trump's travel ban on certain Muslim-majority countries. Despite Biden's ambitious plans for his first 100 days, the Senate may be preoccupied with Trump's impeachment trial, which is set to proceed even though he is no longer in office. This trial could be an early test of Biden's commitment to promoting bipartisanship in Washington. Before leaving office, Trump granted over 140 pardons and commutations, including one for his former adviser Steve Bannon, who is facing charges related to an alleged scheme to defraud Trump supporters. Notably, Trump did not grant preemptive pardons for himself or his family members, despite speculation that he might. | 1 |
Iran is seeking significant changes to a UN nuclear fuel deal that it has largely agreed to, according to state media. This could potentially disrupt the plan and make Iran vulnerable to stronger sanctions. The European Union's foreign policy chief and France's foreign minister have stated that there is no need to modify the UN draft, and have warned that Iran may face tougher international sanctions if it tries to alter the plan. One key aspect of the plan that Iran opposes is the requirement to send most of its low-enriched uranium abroad for processing all at once, a measure intended to reduce the risk of Iran developing nuclear weapons. Iran insists that its uranium enrichment is for power plant fuel only, not for nuclear weapons, but its past nuclear secrecy and limited UN inspections have led to suspicions in the West that Iran may be covertly pursuing nuclear weapons capability. According to an unnamed official cited by Iranian state Arabic-language satellite television station al Alam, Iran will give its response to the proposed agreement within 48 hours, a week after the deadline set by UN nuclear watchdog chief Mohamed ElBaradei. Al Alam reported that Iran will accept the general framework of the draft proposal but will request some important amendments. The specifics of the changes Iran will seek were not provided. Lawmakers have suggested that Iran should import foreign fuel instead of sending abroad much of its low-enriched uranium stock by the end of the year, as specified in the proposal. Iran's foreign minister mentioned on Monday that they may consider both options, indicating they may ship out less uranium than requested by big powers in order to delay the potential weaponization of enrichment for at least a year. The proposed agreement involves Iran sending the majority of its low-enriched uranium to Russia and France for further processing, with the resulting fuel plates being returned to Tehran for use in a research reactor that produces radio-isotopes for cancer treatment. Key agreements on this plan and U.N. monitoring of a newly-disclosed enrichment site were reached during talks in Geneva on October 1 between Iran and six world powers. A team of U.N. inspectors recently visited the new site, which Iran was required to reveal to the IAEA after Western spy services discovered it. Iran was granted temporary relief from sanctions on its oil sector after making promises in Geneva, but Western powers are emphasizing that they will not wait indefinitely for Iran to fulfill its commitments. The agreements made in Geneva are seen as tests of Iran's stated intention to use refined uranium for peaceful purposes, and as a starting point for more extensive negotiations on limiting Tehran's enrichment activities to address the ongoing conflict over its nuclear goals. While there were plans to reconvene in October, delays in the fuel proposal and ongoing inspections have made fresh talks this week unlikely. French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner expressed concern about the ambiguous statements from Iran, stating that time is running out for them. The Middle East region is volatile and potentially dangerous. The situation is tense and the Iranians may not be able to delay action. This is a risky situation, according to Kouchner. If necessary, new sanctions could be implemented by the end of the year. EU ministers have already requested the EU to explore additional sanctions. ElBaradei stated that Iran must transfer the majority of its Low Enriched Uranium overseas in order to build trust. He emphasized the importance of this step in reducing tensions and building confidence. By removing this material, there would be a year of peaceful negotiations. This would give Iran the opportunity to prove that they are enriching uranium for peaceful reasons. Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki stated that Iran will reveal its decision on the pact within the upcoming days. Alaeddin Boroujerdi, who leads parliament's Foreign Affairs and National Security committee, suggested that if any Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) is sent abroad, it should be done in small, gradual amounts. However, this proposal is unacceptable to Western and UN officials as it would not result in a decrease in Iran's overall LEU supply. | 1 |
The state environment minister stated that no non-government organisation has received funding from the Climate Change Trust Fund. Although 53 NGOs have been approved in principle by the technical committee, the final decision has not been made yet. This information comes in response to a report in a national newspaper claiming that 53 NGOs would receive Tk 213.4 million from the fund. The minister mentioned that the technical committee's decision will be reviewed. Following an inter-ministerial meeting, the junior minister reported that Tk 5.48 billion has been distributed from the fund for 48 projects. He stated that the remaining Tk 2 billion will be distributed by the end of the year. Out of this fund, 1.2 percent will be given to NGOs. He mentioned that the majority of the 4,000 NGOs applying for the fund do not have any prior experience in climate change mitigation. | 1 |
The partnership will officially begin on Tuesday. Methane, the second most prevalent greenhouse gas after carbon dioxide, has a greater ability to trap heat than CO2 but dissipates more quickly in the atmosphere. Therefore, reducing methane emissions can quickly help in controlling global warming. The Global Methane Pledge, introduced in September, now has half of the top 30 methane emitters and represents two-thirds of the global economy. Brazil, one of the top five methane emitters globally, is among the new countries joining the pledge. China, Russia, and India, which are also among the top five methane emitters, have not agreed to the pledge. These countries were previously identified as targets to join the pledge. Since its initial announcement in September with a few initial signatories, the United States and European Union have been working to convince the largest methane emitters in the world to join the partnership. Just last week, around 60 countries had signed up after a final diplomatic effort from the US and EU before the COP26 summit. Even though it is not part of the official UN negotiations, the methane pledge could be one of the most important outcomes of the COP26 conference due to its potential impact in mitigating the effects of climate change. A report from the UN released in May suggested that significant reductions in methane emissions over the next decade could prevent around 0.3 degrees Celsius of global warming by the 2040s. Failure to address methane emissions would make it impossible to achieve the goals set out in the Paris Agreement to limit global temperature increases to 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and avoid the most severe consequences of climate change. The proposed 30 percent reduction in methane emissions would involve all sectors and be a collaborative effort among the countries involved. The main sources of methane emissions include leaky oil and gas infrastructure, old coal mines, agriculture, and landfill sites. Fulfilling this commitment is expected to have the most significant impact on the energy sector, as experts believe that repairing leaky oil and gas infrastructure is the most efficient and cost-effective way to reduce methane emissions. The United States holds the title of being the largest oil and gas producer globally, while the EU is the top importer of gas. This week, the United States is expected to announce new methane regulations for oil and gas. Later this year, both the EU and Canada are set to introduce methane legislation focusing on the energy sector. | 1 |
He has also urged for a "transformation" of the seven-nation BIMSTEC grouping, which includes Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand, from South Asia and Southeast Asia into a more dynamic body. This appeal was made at the 16th BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kathmandu, chaired by Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali. Foreign Minister Mahmood Ali highlighted the progress made since the last meeting in Myanmar in 2014 and the Leaders' pledge in India in 2016, reaffirming Bangladesh's commitment to BIMSTEC cooperation. He requested the foreign ministers of BIMSTEC to evaluate the organization's structure, with a focus on enhancing cooperation and strengthening the Secretariat. He also called for the swift completion of the BIMSTEC Free Trade Area and its related agreements for prompt implementation. Bangladesh emphasized the importance of collaboration in key areas like connectivity, energy, poverty reduction, climate change, and interpersonal relationships. The summit's agenda was also finalized during the meeting. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to depart for Kathmandu on Thursday morning to participate in the two-day summit. | 1 |
Barack Obama's first foreign trip as president will be to Canada, where he aims to address Canadian concerns about US protectionism. The discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper will cover trade, clean energy technology, the global economic crisis, and the war in Afghanistan, although time constraints will limit the depth of the talks. Trade issues, particularly the impact of the "Buy American" clause in the US economic recovery package, will be a key focus of the meeting, with both sides seeking to reassure each other that the policy will not harm Canadian firms. Obama has emphasized the importance of avoiding protectionist policies that could have negative consequences. The requirement of the "Buy American" provision is that any public works project funded by the stimulus package must use goods made in the United States. Obama has emphasized that the U.S. will adhere to its international free trade agreements, but Harper has expressed concerns about the provision. Canada is also worried about Obama's desire to renegotiate the North American Free Trade Agreement, fearing it could result in new tariff barriers. Obama aims to enhance environmental and labor provisions, and U.S. and Canadian labor unions have called for changes in various NAFTA provisions before Obama's meeting with Harper. In a joint letter to the two leaders, the AFL-CIO labor federation and the Canadian Labour Congress emphasized the need to address the worsening economic crisis in a coordinated manner. They also called for reopening and rectifying the flaws in the North American Free Trade Agreement, as well as implementing a variety of complementary policies related to energy, climate change, green jobs, industrial policy, migration, and development. Three-way trade between the United States, Mexico, and Canada has significantly increased since NAFTA was established in 1994, with Canada and Mexico combined purchasing over a third of US exports. Despite the positive aspects of the agreement, it has been criticized for contributing to job losses in the US, particularly in manufacturing states. US officials have indicated that while President Obama will discuss NAFTA with Prime Minister Harper, the current global economic situation means that a review of the agreement is not a top priority at the moment. Obama's foreign policy adviser has stated that the president will emphasize his commitment to enhancing trade between the neighboring countries, which currently have the largest trading partnership in the world, amounting to $1.5 billion per day. Obama plans to discuss clean energy technology with Harper, emphasizing Canada's importance as a key US energy supplier. Environmentalists are urging Obama to push Canada to address the environmental impact of their tar sands extraction in Alberta. Obama mentioned working with Canada on developing technologies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, acknowledging the US's reliance on Canada as a primary energy provider. Additionally, Obama will touch on Canada's involvement in Afghanistan during his discussions with Harper. However, with Canada set to remove its troops in 2011 and Obama indicating he had no plans to ask them to stay beyond that date, the discussions are anticipated to center on alternative ways that the Canadians can offer assistance. US authorities have described Thursday's meeting, scheduled a month after Obama assumed office, as a chance for Obama to strengthen his personal rapport with Harper, a conservative leader who shared a close connection with former President George W. Bush. | 1 |
The leaders of the United States, Mexico, and Canada, known as "the three amigos," are meeting for a summit in Mexico to discuss trade issues and the threat of drug gangs. President Barack Obama, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, and Mexican President Felipe Calderon are convening in Guadalajara for dinner on Sunday night, followed by trilateral talks on Monday. Their main focus is on boosting their economies, maintaining smooth trade, and addressing the issue of Mexican drug gangs operating across US borders into Canada. Jim Jones, Obama's national security adviser, does not anticipate any major agreements to be announced at the summit, but sees it as a step towards future agreements. Calderon is expected to pressure Obama to resolve a cross-border trucking dispute. According to the North American Free Trade Agreement, Mexican trucks are supposed to be able to enter the United States, but American trucking companies argue that Mexican trucks are not safe. This issue has been ongoing for years. In response to the cancellation of a program allowing Mexican trucks to operate beyond the U.S. border zone, Mexico imposed $2.4 billion in tariffs on US goods in March. US business groups have been urging the White House to resolve the dispute, as they believe the ban could result in the loss of thousands of American jobs. Mexico's ambassador to the United States, Arturo Sarukhan, stated that they are looking for a final solution to the issue of trucking. He stated his desire for an agreement by the end of the year. A senior White House official, Michael Froman, informed reporters that the Obama administration is highly focused on the issue and is collaborating with the US Congress to address safety concerns. Canadian officials are anticipated to express their worries about the "Buy American" components of a $787 billion economic stimulus bill that could potentially exclude Canadian companies from US construction contracts funded by the stimulus. Canada is the top trading partner of the United States. Froman mentioned that the Obama administration is in discussions with Canada and other countries to ensure that the "Buy American" provision is implemented in a manner that complies with the law and international obligations, while also minimizing trade disruptions. Obama addressed a potential concern before his trip by stating that he is not currently considering unilaterally reopening the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) to add labor and environmental protections, as some in his party would prefer. He acknowledged the difficult economic situation and expressed interest in improving the treaty in the future. Another important issue at the summit is how to address the escalating violence caused by Mexican drug gangs, despite President Calderon's efforts to combat them. Obama is supporting Calderon's actions in going after drug traffickers, praising his courage. During a visit in April, Obama promised full support to Calderon. However, Mexico is complaining that the anti-drug equipment and training are taking too long to arrive, and they hope the summit will help move things forward. The leaders also plan to address the H1N1 swine flu and climate change in preparation for international talks in Copenhagen in December. | 1 |
According to a report cited by state media on Thursday, China needs to reduce its carbon intensity by 4 or 5 percent annually in order to achieve a goal of low-carbon development by 2050. Chinese President Hu Jintao previously promised to slow down the country's carbon emissions, but did not provide a specific target at a UN summit. The China Council of International Cooperation on Environment and Development is expected to present a report to the central government on reducing carbon intensity. The report suggests that in order to achieve the emissions cuts of 4 to 5 percent each year, China must decrease energy intensity by 75 to 85 percent by 2050. The newspaper suggested that the manufacturing industry should decrease from 50 percent to around 30 percent of the national economic structure by the middle of the century. It also stated that by 2030, over half of new energy demand should come from low-carbon sources, and by 2050, all new energy should be clean. Additionally, the promotion of carbon capture and storage technology by 2030 was recommended. The report by a high-level think-tank was noted as the first time concrete proposals to reduce emissions had been made since Hu's September address. The think tank also proposed that China reform its environmental tax system. The report suggests that it is the right time for the country to start taxing companies that emit pollutants and carbon dioxide from burning fossil fuels. This recommendation comes before a significant UN climate conference in Denmark in December. The United Nations is pushing for a stronger, legally binding agreement from all nations to combat climate change at the Copenhagen meeting from Dec. 7-18, but negotiations have been slow and success seems uncertain. | 1 |
The almost certain approval of Judge Brett M Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court will mark the end of a week where the president also finalized a new trade deal with Canada and Mexico, fulfilling one of his key campaign promises. Additionally, the latest jobs report showed the lowest unemployment rate since 1969. While these events do not alter the core aspects of a tumultuous presidency that has faced controversies and defied traditional norms, they provide Trump with a new narrative to use on the campaign trail ahead of crucial midterm elections. With the investigation by Robert Mueller quieting down during the campaign season, Trump has the opportunity to shift the conversation to more favorable topics. David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to President Barack Obama, noted that from Trump's perspective, it has been a good week following many challenging ones. He has had some significant victories to boast about, despite claiming to always win. The positive aspects include job numbers, wages, and the post-NAFTA agreement. However, even in his aggressive approach to leadership, Trump's successes have come with consequences. His tough negotiation tactics have damaged the relationship with Canada, and the battle over Kavanaugh's nomination has fueled division and anger in both political parties. The impact of Kavanaugh's nomination is causing further division, which could either help Trump in the Senate or harm his position in the House. President Trump announced the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement in October 2018, with US trade representative Robert Lighthizer present. The New York Times reported that President Trump, who has never held public office or served in the military, has often struggled due to his lack of experience in government, legislation, and diplomacy. Despite efforts to achieve goals such as repealing Obama's health care law, toughening immigration regulations, building a border wall, and bringing peace to the Middle East, he has faced challenges. Trump has been more successful in exiting agreements, such as the Asian-Pacific trade pact, global climate change accord, and nuclear deal with Iran, rather than negotiating new ones as promised. His most notable accomplishment in terms of legislation was the tax-cutting package passed last year, largely due to the efforts of Republican congressional leaders. However, in recent weeks, Trump has also successfully negotiated a revised trade agreement with South Korea and replaced NAFTA with Canada and Mexico, achievements that seemed unlikely not long ago. The unemployment rate falling to 3.7 percent is partly due to the economic recovery he inherited from Obama, although he refuses to acknowledge this. The strong economy has become one of his key political advantages. Additionally, despite facing allegations of sexual misconduct, he managed to secure Kavanaugh's confirmation as a Supreme Court Justice, which many had predicted would fail. Overall, it has been a successful week for Trump. "We are very excited," stated Kellyanne Conway, his advisor, during an interview. She believes that his determination, persistence, and commitment to his campaign promises and beliefs are finally paying off. Some Republican supporters have acknowledged that Trump's success proves that going against traditional beliefs can be effective. "President Trump has taken many risks," said Ben Domenech, who runs The Federalist, a conservative news outlet. "Most of them have been successful. Even someone who isn't skilled at gambling can have a winning streak." A good gambler's true skill is revealed when the dice stop rolling. While the White House celebrates, his critics mourn as they believe he is appointing a man accused of sexual assault to the Supreme Court, damaging relationships with neighboring countries for a trade deal with exaggerated benefits, and taking credit for the economy while increasing the deficit. Despite some positive outcomes, such as the new trade agreement, many believe Trump's actions have been overshadowed by unnecessary drama. The upcoming campaign trail will determine if Trump's recent successes will garner support, as his approval ratings remain low and historically signal losses for his party before an election. Patti Solis Doyle, who served as Hillary Clinton's campaign manager in 2008, expressed that Independents are particularly fatigued by the chaos and uncertainty of the current political climate. Despite acknowledging the positive aspects such as a strong economy and conservative judges appointed by Trump, she questions the costs associated with his actions, including tariff wars, family separations, and a significant deficit. Trump intends to address these concerns through an upcoming series of campaign events. He will be traveling to Kansas on Saturday and will be on the road for six of the next eight days, primarily attending lively arena rallies where he energizes his conservative supporters with passionate speeches. The upcoming midterm elections are all about voter turnout, with Democrats showing more enthusiasm for months, aiming to take control of the House and possibly the Senate from Trump's party. Although conservatives were more engaged during the Kavanaugh confirmation battle, Democrats may now be more motivated to vote due to anger over the outcome, particularly women who are outraged that allegations of sexual assault were dismissed. It remains unclear whether Trump can effectively focus on his key political points, as he tends to digress to other topics even when highlighting significant achievements such as the new trade agreement, known as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). One constant during the Trump presidency is the rapidly changing narrative, with new stories of political drama, international conflicts, and investigative revelations constantly emerging. It is uncertain how these events will impact the upcoming election on Nov 6, as a lot can change in a month in the Trump era. | 1 |
India stated that its current energy policy would lead to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by over 25 percent by 2020. However, India also expressed concerns that being pressured to implement mandatory targets to combat global warming could hinder economic growth. Despite being a major contributor to global carbon emissions, India is not obligated under the Kyoto Protocol to reduce emissions. The country's environment secretary highlighted India's efforts in enforcing energy efficiency programs and promoting renewable energy as effective in reducing emissions. Ghosh mentioned that their modeling approaches indicate a significant decrease in greenhouse gas emissions by the year 2020 due to the combined impact of these policies. India and China, both experiencing economic growth, may face increased pressure at the upcoming Group of Eight summit in Germany to further reduce emissions. According to Ghosh, India is currently allocating 2.17 percent of its GDP annually towards addressing climate change impacts in various sectors. Experts predict that the Indian subcontinent will be heavily impacted by natural disasters, diseases like malaria, and food insecurity due to climate change. Ghosh argues that industrialized nations, responsible for the majority of global emissions, should take greater responsibility and set higher emission reduction targets for themselves instead of pressuring developing countries like India. Ghosh stated that developing nations such as India have not, are not, and will not be major contributors to emissions. He expressed concern that mandated emissions reduction measures could negatively impact GDP growth and hinder poverty alleviation efforts. Ghosh called on the West to assist developing countries in adapting to the effects of climate change, emphasizing that the poor will be most affected by these impacts. | 1 |
She delivered her remarks during her speech at the 76th session of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) through a video conference on Thursday. The session's theme was focused on promoting economic, social, and environmental cooperation on oceans for sustainable development. Originally, Hasina was supposed to attend the meeting in Bangkok and give the keynote speech, but due to the global COVID-19 pandemic, the session had to be conducted virtually for the first time. The Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand and Permanent Representative to the ESCAP, Nazmul Quaunine, was chosen as the chair of the 76th Commission of UNESCAP. In her address regarding the impact of the coronavirus crisis, Hasina expressed that the world is currently dealing with unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "The virus has had a significant impact on our economy, in addition to health concerns. Despite this, the pandemic has brought about some positive changes in global efforts to address climate change and competition for natural resources. It is important that we work together to combat this pandemic. Hasina emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in helping developing countries build their capacity for sustainable use of marine resources. She also emphasized Bangladesh's dedication to fostering the growth of the blue economy as part of their long-term national development strategy." The prime minister highlighted the importance of oceans and seas as an untapped resource that can help reduce poverty and create job opportunities. She emphasized the need for a global response to environmental pollutants affecting marine life, in order to promote sustainable and inclusive use of ocean resources. The government is focusing on promoting the blue economy as part of its national development strategy, implementing conservation programs and using eco-friendly technologies to protect freshwater and marine resources. The prime minister also mentioned key ocean issues that need to be addressed to enhance economic cooperation among ESCAP member countries. Hasina stressed the importance of receiving enhanced support for capacity building in the Blue Economy through the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and technology transfer from advanced countries. She also highlighted the necessity of collaborative research among member countries on fisheries development to increase regional fish production and establish a network to combat illegal fishing. Hasina called on ESCAP to lead efforts in mapping and managing resource identification, protecting coastal habitats, and biodiversity. Other leaders, including the Prime Ministers of Thailand, Fiji, and Tuvalu, also expressed their views through video messages during the session. The Asia Pacific nations agreed to work together to address the socio-economic impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and adopted a resolution. | 1 |
The UN Security Council will discuss climate change on April 17, marking the first time the issue has been included on the agenda of a body focused on war and peace. British Ambassador Emyr Jones Parry emphasized the potential for climate change to worsen traditional conflict triggers during a news conference outlining Security Council activities for April, when Britain holds the rotating presidency. Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett will oversee the debate, underscoring Britain's view of climate change as a critical global security issue. Other countries have been encouraged to send their foreign ministers to participate in the debate, in addition to their ambassadors. Britain announced in March its plans to address climate change in the Security Council, a decision that needed approval from all 15 council members, including the five permanent members with veto power. China and Russia, two permanent members, showed some resistance to the idea, according to diplomatic sources. The United States, which has not ratified the Kyoto Protocol, did not oppose the discussion. With support from Prime Minister Tony Blair and Beckett, a former environment secretary, Britain has been leading efforts to combat global warming in various international forums, such as the European Union, which recently agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2020. Britain anticipated that some UN members may argue that climate change should be handled by the General Assembly or environmental agencies, and circulated a concept paper highlighting the potential consequences of climate change, including conflict, border changes, energy disruptions, and mass migrations. The text outlines six potential areas where global security could be impacted by climate change: border disputes, migration, energy supplies, resource shortages, societal stress, and humanitarian crises. The melting ice and rising sea levels could change the world's physical landmass, potentially leading to shifts in political or maritime borders. There could also be mass migration as a result, with some projections suggesting that up to 200 million people could be displaced by mid-century. | 1 |
Australia's former anti-immigrant politician, Pauline Hanson, is planning to become an immigrant herself by moving to Britain in order to escape ongoing controversy surrounding her previous remarks about Asians overwhelming Australia. Hanson, who transitioned from owning a fish-and-chip shop to founding the One Nation party and making it a significant political entity over ten years ago, disclosed to Australia's Woman's Day publication that she is selling her residence in Queensland and relocating to the UK in search of tranquility. "I am going to be gone for an unspecified amount of time. It is essentially a permanent goodbye," she stated. "I have reached my limit." I desire tranquility and satisfaction in my life. That is my goal. Hanson gained recognition in 1996 when she entered the national parliament as an independent, advocating for reductions in Aboriginal welfare and immigration from neighboring countries. Her nationalist One Nation party garnered a million votes at its peak in 1998, but she eventually lost her seat and was convicted of electoral fraud, serving a brief jail sentence. After her conviction was overturned in 2003, Hanson, a red-headed mother of four, retired from politics and became a minor celebrity, even participating in a TV dancing competition at one point. Hanson expressed her dissatisfaction with the changes in Australia, despite speculation that the country's mood is once again aligning with her views ahead of upcoming elections. She mentioned that the concept of Australia being a land of opportunity no longer applies. The increase in asylum seekers has caused division among Australians and may become a significant issue in the upcoming elections, which Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is expected to win. Immigration is projected to increase Australia's population to 35 million by 2050, with Rudd supporting a "big Australia" for economic sustainability, though critics argue it may struggle with climate change and aging infrastructure. | 1 |
On Monday, the outgoing Director General of CIRDAP, Dr Durga P Paudyal, stated that ideas that do not receive support from donors are not of interest to policymakers. Dr Paudyal reflected on his eight-year term in Bangladesh, where the institute is based, and mentioned the challenge of convincing policymakers to act on new policies and ideas without sufficient funding. He made these remarks while discussing the upcoming 33rd founding anniversary celebration of CIRDAP with journalists. CIRDAP was established on July 6, 1979 through collaboration between countries in the Asia-Pacific region and the UN's FAO, with the initial goal of promoting cooperation in rural development and poverty alleviation. Since its inception, the organization has grown to include 15 member states, with Fiji being the most recent addition in 2010. The member countries include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Iran, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, and Fiji. Dr. Paudyal highlighted the organization's focus on south-south cooperation, emphasizing the importance of learning from neighboring or developing countries rather than developed ones. Regional dialogues and meetings are organized to facilitate the sharing of best practices among member states. He stated that CIRDAP has assisted governments in various ways, whether visible or not, especially in relation to climate change and rural development across multiple countries, not just Bangladesh. He emphasized that CIRDAP's programs in different countries may not be well-known in Bangladesh, as they focus on policy-level work rather than grassroots initiatives. The Director General also mentioned that CIRDAP is involved in developing Bangladesh's poverty monitoring system, while praising the current government for its support of CIRDAP as a form of regional cooperation. He mentioned that they received more than USD 2 million from Bangladesh to construct an international conference center. The Director General stated that they would hold a 'Founding Day' lecture, as they do every year, with former Indian President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam speaking about sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region. Dr Cecep Effendi from Indonesia will take over for Dr Paudyal on July 6, according to CIRDAP's official announcement. | 1 |
The Prime Minister of Denmark stated that China is determined to achieve a climate change agreement at upcoming key talks, despite the global economic crisis. He emphasized the importance of not using economic issues as an excuse to delay the deal. Danish Prime Minister Anders Fogh Rasmussen, who is currently in Beijing for an Asia-Europe meeting, has been actively engaging with China, a major contributor to carbon dioxide emissions, in preparation for the climate change negotiations in Copenhagen next year. Following discussions with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, Rasmussen announced that China is committed to reaching an agreement during the Copenhagen conference in December 2009. The negotiations, scheduled to conclude late next year, are aimed at developing a treaty based on the current Kyoto Protocol climate agreement, which expires in 2012. Denmark's significant role in hosting the negotiations has placed it in a unique position to seek consensus. Despite the global focus on the financial crisis and the resulting divisions between wealthy and developing nations on addressing climate change, Denmark's Prime Minister, Rasmussen, sees China's commitment as a positive signal for others. He urged countries not to let the economic downturn hinder progress on a new climate agreement, suggesting that increased investment in green technology could actually help spur economic recovery. Rasmussen warned against using the financial crisis as an excuse to weaken efforts to combat climate change. European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso emphasized the importance of continuing efforts to combat climate change, despite the financial crisis. He highlighted that delaying action on climate change is not acceptable, and urged China to participate in the fight. Barroso also pointed out that while there is a cost to reducing emissions, the cost of climate change will be much higher in the long run, especially for China. Currently, under the Kyoto pact, China and other developing nations are not required to set limits on their greenhouse gas emissions. China's rapidly increasing emissions, surpassing those of the United States, have prompted other nations to urge for stricter limits. This week, EU environment ministers suggested that developing countries should aim to reduce emissions by 15 to 30 percent compared to current levels. The EU proposal does not impose an absolute cap on emissions for poorer countries but requires them to take measurable actions. This approach could encourage China and other developing nations to make commitments to reduce emissions. According to Rasmussen, contributions from industrialized countries alone will not suffice, and engagement from major emerging economies is essential. During the opening of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on Friday, the European Union member states and the European Commission will engage in discussions about climate change policy with Japan, China, India, and 13 other Asian countries. Rasmussen expressed hope that the meeting will result in an agreement to aim for a pact in Copenhagen. | 1 |
Foreign Minister AH Mahmood Ali announced that Hasina will hold discussions with her Austrian counterpart during the upcoming conference in Vienna. Leaders from various continents will be in attendance at the "International Conference on the Technical Cooperation Programme: Sixty Years and Beyond – Contributing to Development". Hasina and her team will depart from Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on a special Biman Bangladesh flight at 9am. Ali stated that Hasina's presence at the conference will demonstrate Bangladesh's dedication to global peace and enhance the country's reputation, as Bangladesh prioritizes the peaceful utilization of atomic energy. Bangladesh joined the IAEA in 1972 with the assistance of late nuclear scientist Dr. MA Wazed Miah, the husband of the prime minister at the time. The current prime minister is expected to discuss in her speech the benefits of the IAEA's technical cooperation program in improving Bangladesh's atomic energy capabilities, socio-economic development, and sustainable development. Additionally, she will emphasize the importance of science and technology in advancing towards a 'digital Bangladesh'. The foreign minister noted that Austria was among the first countries to recognize Bangladesh in 1972. The former Austrian Federal Chancellor Bruno Kreisky showed support for Bangladesh, and in 2012, Hasina presented him with the 'Friends of Liberation War Honor Award'. In 2014, Bangladesh established a resident mission in Vienna. As part of the government's strategy to strengthen ties with Europe, steps were taken to improve relations and cooperation with Austria. Hasina is scheduled to hold a one-on-one meeting with Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Kern. Foreign Minister Ali stated that during the upcoming visit, the prime minister will discuss areas such as agriculture and livestock cooperation, starting direct flights, and holding regular diplomatic consultations, in addition to trade, investment, and sustainable development. They will also address international issues including global terrorism, migration, refugee crisis, climate change, and the post-Brexit Europe situation. A memorandum of understanding on foreign office consultations will be signed during the visit. Prime Minister Hasina will also meet with Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen for a courtesy call. Ali expressed hope that the visit will further strengthen bilateral relations. The prime minister is scheduled to depart Vienna on Tuesday evening and return to Dhaka on Wednesday morning. Other than the foreign minister, the minister in charge of science and technology will be accompanying the prime minister on her visit. | 1 |
In Tokyo on Sunday, anti-G8 summit protesters marched through the streets in heavy rain, accusing the Group of Eight rich nations of causing poverty and instability in the world. The protests, a common occurrence at G8 summits, took place as Japan increased security measures ahead of this year's gathering in Hokkaido. Over 1,000 people participated in two separate rallies in Tokyo, including anti-capitalists, labor union members, and protesters from countries like Spain and South Korea. The streets were heavily guarded by anti-riot police as protesters carried signs with messages such as "shut down G8 summit" and "G8=hunger," and some scuffles broke out between protesters and police. Japanese TV station TV Asahi reported that two individuals had been arrested, although police were unable to verify this information. Yu Ando, a 31-year-old working for a local government in western Japan, expressed frustration with the G8 governments, attributing issues like environmental destruction and poverty in Africa to their actions. Ahead of the summit at Lake Toya, located about 760 km north of Tokyo, various domestic and international NGOs, such as Oxfam, planned to protest on various issues including globalization, the food crisis, and wars. There are expected to be protests near the summit venue, with protesters gathering at three camp sites as well as in Tokyo and Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido. However, tight security and the high cost of travel to the remote summit site may decrease the turnout. Human rights lawyers have raised concerns about Japanese immigration authorities making it difficult for activists to obtain visas by complicating the application process, with reports of some activists being detained for hours at immigration. During last year's G8 summit in Heiligendamm, Germany, approximately 30,000 protesters gathered in the area, entering a restricted zone set up for the summit and blocking land routes. At Lake Toya, leaders from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States will discuss issues such as rising food and oil prices, climate change, and African development. Japan has extended invitations to eight other countries, such as Brazil, China, and India, to engage in discussions about climate change during a separate event. | 1 |
The extra paperwork, fees, and safety checks required for goods to enter Britain are especially challenging for businesses that deal with small quantities. This is a particular concern for specialty food importers in London who source products from small suppliers across Europe. Yannos Hadjiioannou, the owner of Maltby & Greek, has faced difficulties importing unique products from Greece due to these new regulations. Customers can find rare items like goat-milk butter, Mastelo cheese, mountain tea, and Gigantes beans at his shop under the arches on Saturdays. The process of importing these goods has become more complex in recent weeks. After a delay of one year, Britain began enforcing stricter customs requirements for goods arriving from the European Union on January 1. In 2020, half of all imports into the country came from the EU. Now, all goods must be accompanied by customs declarations, whereas last year British importers had a six-month reporting delay. Additionally, businesses importing animal and plant products, such as food, must notify the government in advance of shipments. The implementation of these new rules at the border has been relatively smooth. DFDS, a Danish logistics company that operates ferry services to Britain, stated that some customers had incorrectly completed paperwork, resulting in some food shipments being halted. Shipments from the Netherlands had to be temporarily suspended on one day to address a backlog from the previous day. Chief executive Torben Carlsen mentioned that all parties involved made an effort to learn from the issues that occurred a year ago. Last year, the European Union implemented customs regulations immediately after Brexit, leading to delays in deliveries, disruptions in trucking services to Ireland, and food spoilage in ports. It took over a month to resolve most of these problems. Britain faced financial constraints due to import issues this year. Approximately 25% of the nation's food is brought in from the European Union, with the amount increasing significantly during the winter months for fresh produce. Despite this, there are obstacles beyond the border that are not immediately apparent. Some UK companies are absorbing the export expenses of their European partners in order to retain their business, while others are opting to import fewer products, resulting in fewer options for consumers. Others are choosing to only make bulk purchases and are avoiding experimenting with new products. The decrease in imports was already evident before the new import regulations were implemented. According to the Food and Drink Federation, food and drink imports dropped by approximately 11% in the first nine months of 2021 compared to 2019. Despite continuing business as usual after Britain's departure from the EU customs union at the beginning of 2021, Hadjiioannou stated that within six months, the extra customs expenses and resulting price hikes became unsustainable. He has stopped receiving weekly shipments of anthotyro, a soft fresh sheep's milk cheese from Crete, as well as traditionally strained sheep or goat yogurt, resulting in these popular products frequently being out of stock. The sausages from Crete are now being delivered frozen instead of fresh in larger, less frequent shipments. According to Hadjiioannou, many perishable products have been affected, especially those that were small in volume but important to many restaurants and delis. The main impact of Brexit has been the loss of flexibility. Maltby & Greek's warehouse is located at Spa Terminus, which is a row of railway arches home to food producers, wholesalers, and wine importers. During this season, the fresh products available at the markets include Sicilian citrus, Italian leafy greens, and French root vegetables. Rachel Sills, who sells cheese from Switzerland and the Netherlands, has experience exporting from Switzerland, which has helped her navigate Brexit's trade rules. However, she is still facing additional costs. Sills purchases cheese from four small producers in the Netherlands, some of which do not even have email addresses. Now, each producer is required to have an Economic Operator's Registration and Identification number, customs agents for export and tax paperwork, and more detailed invoices with tariff codes. Sills mentioned that she had covered the additional expenses for export clearances on behalf of the cheesemakers. Recently, she managed to consolidate the orders and pay just 65 euros ($74.50) for each invoice, in addition to her own import fees. Sills pointed out that the cheesemakers have not yet started paying the actual costs of the export charges, as she has been covering them herself. While Sills acknowledged that the paperwork and costs are not overly burdensome, she noted that for companies with numerous suppliers, the cumulative cost can become overwhelming, particularly when purchasing small volumes. And for these businesses, Brexit has ultimately resulted in additional expenses. While there are no longer extreme shortages, trade policy expert David Henig warns that the impact will be gradual but significant, likening it to a "slow boiling frog." The extra costs are expected to harm Britain's economy, with forecasts predicting a long-term GDP shortfall of around 4%. According to Henig, customers may have fewer choices as a result. Furthermore, Brexit continues to reduce the motivation for companies to invest in Britain. Franco Fubini, the founder of Natoora, stated that the company has become less focused on the U.K. in recent years. Natoora, which was established in London in 2004, now supplies fresh produce from numerous small farms in Europe and North America to around 1,600 restaurants worldwide and various shops, including Selfridges and Whole Foods in the United States. The company restructured its internal processes so that the British branch no longer directly imports from farms in Italy, France, Spain, and Greece. Instead, more staff were hired in Paris and Milan to purchase the produce, which is then sold to the London office. This consolidation has resulted in only one invoice, saving money on transportation and customs. Despite finding a solution, Fubini mentioned that Brexit has negatively impacted Britain's global reputation, causing him to reassess his company's future. He said that for the first time in 15 or 16 years, he began to question the level of investment in the U.K. When Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new trade deal with the European Union on Christmas Eve 2020, he stated that the agreement would enable companies and exporters to increase business with European partners. However, in reality, the deal has made business more difficult. Brexit may release Britain from rules set by Brussels, but it has created new complications for businesses. While Brexit was expected to bring benefits such as access to new markets and less regulation, supporters are frustrated by the slow progress in realizing these advantages. Elena Deminska, who runs the fresh produce market at Spa Terminus, Puntarelle & Co, believes Brexit could offer British farmers the opportunity to produce more of the food currently imported from the EU. The nation has the right weather for growing winter lettuce or broccoli raab, or even apricots with some effort, according to Deminska. However, she is frustrated with the inflexible farmers. Deminska wisely outsourced her customs work to an external company four years ago, but she is still struggling with the additional paperwork brought on by Brexit. She finds it unhelpful and believes there is already too much paperwork. These businesses will face more challenges in the future. Starting in July, health certificates signed by European Union inspectors will be required for food imports and may be subject to random checks at the border. These new regulations will increase complexity and costs, according to Fubini. The changes are seen as disruptive. | 1 |
The European Union and the United States agreed on Monday that addressing global warming is a pressing issue, with President George W. Bush acknowledging the necessity of convincing Russia about the importance of a missile shield in Europe. During a White House summit, Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso reaffirmed their commitment to finalizing a global trade agreement as part of the Doha round of talks. They continued to urge Iran to abandon its nuclear weapons program, despite Tehran's refusal to halt uranium enrichment. Merkel, on her first visit to Washington since assuming the EU presidency, emphasized the importance of addressing global climate change ahead of the upcoming Group of Eight summit in Germany in June. During a press conference held together in the Rose Garden, the European representatives expressed satisfaction with the progress made on the issue, even though no specific actions were decided upon for the EU and the United States to tackle the problem together. Barroso stated that he was pleased with the progress made during the meeting, highlighting the shared understanding that there is a significant global threat posed by emissions and the importance of working together to reduce them. Bush, who was criticized for being slow to acknowledge climate change as a problem, emphasized that any agreement between the United States and Europe would not have a significant impact unless developing countries like China were included. He pointed out that even if the United States completely stopped emitting greenhouse gases, China could easily surpass that level of emissions in a short period of time. In response, Merkel argued that it is essential for developed countries with advanced technologies to take the lead in reducing carbon emissions. She stated that without action from developed countries, it would be difficult to convince others to follow suit and global CO2 emissions would not decrease. The leaders of the US and EU met amidst Russian criticism of US plans to deploy a missile shield in Eastern Europe. Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to take 'appropriate measures' to counter the system. President Bush mentioned that German Chancellor Angela Merkel had previously raised concerns about the missile shield and suggested that he should explain his vision to Putin. In response, Bush sent Defense Secretary Robert Gates to Moscow to offer Russia the opportunity to be involved in the shield, which is intended to counter terrorist threats rather than revive the Cold War. Bush emphasized the importance of starting a dialogue to clarify intentions and show Russia that the US is not an antagonistic force but a friendly one. | 1 |
The revision of section six of the Church's Code of Canon Law, which began in 2009, is the most comprehensive since the code was approved by Pope John Paul in 1983. The aim of the revisions is to reduce the discretion of authorities in imposing penalties and to ensure bishops follow the law. The new section, consisting of around 80 articles on crime and punishment, includes changes made to Church law since 1983 and introduces new categories. Monsignor Filippo Iannone, who led the project, noted a need to address leniency in penal law and the prioritization of mercy over justice. Sexual abuse of minors has been reclassified under a new category called "Offences Against Human Life, Dignity and Liberty" instead of the previous category of "Crimes Against Special Obligations." This new section now includes additional crimes such as grooming minors or vulnerable adults for sexual abuse and possessing child pornography. | 1 |
A senior US diplomat stated that the Obama administration aims to expand on the US-India nuclear power deal to collaborate with India in strengthening the global non-proliferation system. The 2005 agreement allowed India to import nuclear technology after a long freeze, and both countries now have a responsibility to enhance the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty system. The diplomat emphasized the importance of creating a stronger NPT regime to promote safe and affordable nuclear power for global energy needs while preventing the spread of nuclear weapons. Despite not being a signatory to the NPT, India is urged to consider making commitments to participate in an international approach. The Nuclear Suppliers Group recently lifted a ban on nuclear trade with India, which was imposed in response to its first nuclear test in 1974 and its refusal to join the NPT. Washington faced significant opposition but ultimately succeeded in obtaining the NSG waiver to move forward with the nuclear cooperation pact, a crucial goal for the United States in terms of strategy, clean energy, environment, and commerce. India, Pakistan, and Israel are the only three countries that have never signed the NPT. India's special envoy for nuclear issues and climate change emphasized that the nuclear deal and NSG waiver have elevated India to a recognized partner in the global nuclear arena. The envoy, Shyam Saran, expressed gratitude for the civil nuclear agreement, stating that it has opened up new opportunities for engagement on previously sensitive and contentious issues. Addressing the challenge of integrating India and Pakistan into the NPT framework is deemed a critical issue by Steinberg. It was mentioned that the details of how Washington and New Delhi would collaborate on non-proliferation matters would be discussed in talks after the Obama administration appointed key officials and after India's general elections in April and May. | 1 |
The global financial crisis could actually accelerate efforts to develop 'green growth' industries by restructuring the financial system, according to the UN climate chief. It is crucial for governments to prioritize helping poorer countries address their environmental challenges rather than focusing solely on rescuing the financial sector. The recent market downturns may impact UN-led climate change discussions, but there is also an opportunity to use the crisis as a catalyst for promoting green economic growth worldwide. "The credit crunch presents a chance to reshape the financial system to support sustainable growth. Governments can now implement policies that encourage private investment in clean industries. De Boer believes that a successful outcome in climate change negotiations could lead to new markets, investments, and job opportunities. However, he cautions that focusing global capital on saving the financial sector could harm the most vulnerable populations. He hopes that the credit crunch will not delay progress for developing countries." De Boer stated that in order to make progress on the environmental agenda, it is crucial to support developing countries. Environment ministers will convene in Poznan, Poland in two months to prepare for the Copenhagen summit, where a new global-warming agreement will be discussed to replace the Kyoto Protocol. Ministers must show their commitment to providing financial resources and necessary structures for developing countries to participate in global efforts for mitigation and adaptation. De Boer emphasized that funding can also come from sources other than governments and suggested utilizing market mechanisms. Despite the financial crisis, the Clean Development Mechanism under the Kyoto Protocol has not been impacted. | 1 |
Kamran Reza Chowdhury reports that the 16th summit of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation will commence on Wednesday in Thimphu, Bhutan, marking the organization's 25th anniversary since its establishment in Dhaka in 1985. Various leaders including Afghan president Hamid Karzai, Maldivian president Mohamed Nashid, Sri Lankan president Mahinda Rajapaksha, Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Indian premier Manmohan Singh, Nepalese prime minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, and Pakistan's prime minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani are scheduled to deliver speeches during the opening session. Bhutan's Prime Minister Lyonchhen Jigmi Y Thinley, serving as the chair of the session, will oversee the summit, which will focus on the Thimphu declaration as well as a statement on climate change. Despite being in existence for 25 years, critics argue that SAARC has not made significant progress in reducing poverty and improving the lives of over 1.5 billion people in the region. The common belief among member countries is that SAARC is a platform for annual meetings of top leaders who make ambitious promises but do not follow through. According to Bhutanese foreign secretary Daw Penjo, the summit allows South Asian leaders to interact face to face in a setting without media or bureaucrats, which helps improve relations. The upcoming 16th SAARC summit will focus on creating a 25-year roadmap based on the region's people's aspirations. Additionally, SAARC foreign ministers have completed drafts for two agreements - one on environmental cooperation and another on trade in services - for approval at the summit. The Thimphu declaration and the Thimphu statement on climate change were prepared by the council of ministers and the standing committee for the 16th summit. A common SAARC position on climate change will be announced by member states, but there will be no text on legally binding emission cut targets for polluters. Bangladesh proposed including a SAARC charter for democracy in the declaration to promote democracy in all eight countries, according to foreign secretary Mohamed Mijarul Quayes. All heads of states and governments, except Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh, have arrived in Thimphu, a picturesque hilly city. Singh is expected to arrive Wednesday morning before the summit begins at 2.30 pm. The summit will also mark the opening of the headquarters of the SAARC Development Fund in Thimphu. | 1 |
Dr David Nabarro wrapped up his brief visit to Dhaka on Sunday as part of his worldwide campaign. During his time there, he met with health minister Mohammed Nasim, senior government officials, and a group of journalists, including bdnews24.com, at the British High Commission in Dhaka. The election for the WHO’s eighth director-general will be held in May during the annual general meeting of the World Health Assembly in Geneva, where 194 member states will convene. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, former Ethiopian foreign minister and health minister, and Dr Sania Nishtar, former health minister of Pakistan, are the other two finalists in the race to replace Dr Margaret Chan, whose second term ends on June 30. The candidates are addressing global issues such as recent outbreaks like the Ebola virus, health challenges from climate change, an aging population, non-communicable diseases, and the scarcity of new drugs. The WHO faced strong criticism for its handling of the Ebola virus outbreak, with experts questioning the organization's effectiveness during that time. The outbreak in West Africa in 2014 resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 individuals. Dr. Navarro, who has been serving as the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Ebola since September 2014, has been guiding the international response strategically and policy-wise. When asked why Bangladesh should vote for him, the British doctor highlighted his past experiences and expressed confidence in his ability to steer the WHO in the right direction. Due to his time working in South Asia, specifically Bangladesh, he has a good understanding of the health and healthcare challenges in the region. He mentioned that his recent work as a special envoy for the UN Secretary on SDGs and climate change is also applicable to Bangladesh. He expressed his fondness for the country, having worked there in 1982 with Save the Children and witnessing many positive initiatives. He expressed his desire for Bangladesh to vote for him, emphasizing that if Bangladesh supports him, it will garner attention from others. With over 30 years of experience in public health, nutrition, and development across national, regional, and global levels, he has held various positions in NGOs, universities, national governments, and the UN system. Additionally, he has served as Senior Coordinator for Avian and Pandemic Influenza, Coordinator of the Movement to Scale Up Nutrition, and Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Food Security and Nutrition, a role he will continue to fulfill. When the Ebola outbreak occurred, he was brought in by the UN Secretary General due to the virus rapidly spreading. After assuming the responsibility, he observed that there was an issue, but with the support of everyone, they were able to assist WHO in getting back on track. After a few months, WHO was able to fulfill its intended role. This experience highlighted the need for changes within WHO to detect potential outbreaks faster, respond efficiently, and raise alarms more effectively. In the second half of 2015, the Director General of WHO asked him to lead a group to advise on reforming the organization to better assist countries in responding to outbreaks. The advisory group provided recommendations to enhance response capabilities, prompting him to pursue the position of Director General to see these changes implemented, as he strongly believes in the cause. David Nabarro. It is essential to have the World Health Organization (WHO) in place to handle outbreaks, as there are no other alternatives. The speaker has experience dealing with avian influenza, SARS, cholera, and managing outbreaks. He believes his past experiences have equipped him with the expertise, courage, strategic skills, and management ability needed to lead WHO effectively. He aims to make WHO reliable and efficient in handling outbreaks. He has a proven track record in various areas such as food, nutrition, infectious diseases, climate change, and sustainable development goals. He believes these experiences make him a suitable candidate for the role at WHO. He stated that WHO, under his leadership, will be an organization that is completely transparent and accountable to everyone, as that is the most effective way to manage public services in the modern age. The process of electing the next Director-General began on September 23 of last year, with the announcement of the nominated candidates by Member States. This was followed by interactions between member states and candidates in a password-protected web forum on the WHO website. In November, a live forum took place where candidates presented their visions for the WHO Member States and answered questions about their candidacy. In January, the WHO's Executive Board selected a shortlist of five candidates. The Board members conducted interviews with multiple candidates and then chose three of them to participate in the final voting process at the World Health Assembly in May. The new Director-General will officially start on July 1 of this year. Among the candidates are individuals representing Africa, Asia, and Europe. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus from Ethiopia received the highest number of votes from executive members and is endorsed by the African Union. His campaign page describes him as a visionary leader who has successfully led Ethiopia and various global health organizations to achieve significant results and expand their influence. He expressed his vision for a world where all individuals, regardless of their identity or location, can live healthy and productive lives. Dr. Sania Nishtar from Pakistan outlined 10 pledges in her campaign that focused on addressing issues to revitalize the World Health Organization. She emphasized the need for swift reforms, transparency, accountability, efficiency, and a results-driven culture. | 1 |
Kim Jong Un provided guidance for steps to increase interaction between North and South Korea following a visit by his younger sister, Kim Yo Jong, to the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. The specifics of these instructions were not disclosed. The United States has indicated support for enhanced engagement between the two Koreas post-Olympics, potentially leading to discussions between Pyongyang and Washington. South Korean President Moon Jae-in stated that the United States is willing to engage in dialogue with North Korea, as confirmed by Moon's spokesperson. Moon informed Latvian President Raimonds Vējonis that the United States views inter-Korean talks positively and is open to negotiations with North Korea. US officials are calling for strong international sanctions to be increased in order to pressure North Korea to abandon its nuclear program. This view was echoed by Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who stated that it was important to maintain maximum pressure on North Korea. North Korea has continued to conduct missile launches and nuclear tests in violation of UN resolutions, with the goal of developing a nuclear-armed missile capable of reaching the US. Japanese officials emphasized that there is unity among Japan, the US, and South Korea in their approach to dealing with North Korea. The US remains committed to the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, according to a senior Japanese diplomat briefing lawmakers. A senior military official stationed at the border between North and South Korea stated that the goal is denuclearization through dialogue and action. If North Korea does not take action, the United States and Japan will not change their policies. The official also mentioned that North Korea has reduced the volume of its border propaganda broadcasts since the Olympics’ opening ceremony on Feb. 9. Moon, who was offered a meeting with Kim Jong Un in Pyongyang, is pushing for a diplomatic solution to the conflict over North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. Seoul plans to proceed with reunions of family members separated by the Korean War in order to maintain the dialogue initiated by the North Korean delegation’s visit. Meanwhile, the White House stated on Monday that Trump has encouraged Russia to increase their efforts in persuading North Korea to abandon its nuclear program, with the goal of escalating the pressure on Pyongyang. The possibility of an inter-Korean summit, the first since 2007, has been discussed following months of tensions among Pyongyang, Seoul, and Washington. Despite the lack of mention in North Korean media over the weekend, KCNA's report expressed Kim Jong Un's appreciation towards Seoul for their dedicated efforts in accommodating the delegation's visit, which he found to be very impressive. Moon and his administration organized numerous meetings and meals for the delegation during their stay at the presidential Blue House and luxury five-star hotels, with Moon personally accompanying Kim Yo Jong to various events at the Olympics and an orchestra concert. Furthermore, apart from the prominent delegation, South Korea has also welcomed hundreds of North Koreans, including an orchestra and cheer squad, to attend the Winter Olympics. The cheerleading team will be present at the united women's ice hockey team's last game in the Olympics on Wednesday, where they will face long-time rival Japan in the final match of the preliminary round. | 1 |
The seven-nation BIMSTEC group adopted a convention to combat terrorism and insurgency, which is expected to strengthen India's efforts against militancy in its northeast region. Foreign ministers from India, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Thailand, and Nepal signed the Convention on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism, Trans-National Organised Crime and Illicit Drug Trafficking at the 12th BIMSTEC Ministerial meeting in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar. Additionally, the ministers agreed to include climate change as a key area of cooperation for the BIMSTEC countries. Myanmar Prime Minister Thein Sein emphasized the importance of cooperation in combating terrorism and trans-national organized crime during the inauguration of the ministerial meeting. The Prime Minister of Myanmar highlighted terrorism in his inaugural address, making it a significant topic for discussion. Regional connectivity was a key focus at the BIMSTEC foreign ministers' summit, with plans to address connectivity issues in the region. Transport ministers of member countries will work on devising a route plan for connectivity in future meetings. The economic bloc was formed in 1997 by member states including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Its connectivity strategy aims to connect six South Asian nations with South East Asian countries like Thailand and Myanmar. This plan serves as an alternate method for integrating the South Asian region, excluding Pakistan and Afghanistan. | 1 |
Top tobacco companies are concerned that if Australia and Britain implement plain packaging rules for cigarettes, this trend may spread to other markets with higher growth potential, impacting their future profits. Health advocates are advocating for plain packaging with standard fonts and graphic health warnings to deter young people from smoking. Australia is set to enforce plain packaging by the end of the year, while Britain is currently discussing the issue. Analysts predict that if Australia succeeds, other countries like Britain, Canada, and New Zealand may follow suit, causing worry for tobacco companies whose stocks have been performing well in 2012. Analyst Martin Deboo from Investec Securities expressed concern about the potential impact of plain packaging on tobacco stocks, especially in emerging markets like Brazil, Russia, and Indonesia. He mentioned that the appeal of western cigarette brands, such as Marlboro and Lucky Strike, in these markets could be at risk if plain packaging regulations spread. However, analysts believe that smokers in mature markets like Western Europe and North America are less likely to switch brands due to packaging changes. Despite declining smoking rates in mature markets, the world's top tobacco companies are focusing on emerging markets for growth. Tobacco companies have seen growth due to creative packaging, but may struggle if plain packaging laws are implemented. The industry is fighting against this in Australia, where strict anti-smoking rules have reduced smoking rates. In Britain, smoking rates are higher and contribute to many deaths annually. Health Secretary Andrew Lansley has announced a consultation process that will last for 12 weeks until July 10. Lansley has emphasized that he is remaining open-minded throughout the process. | 1 |
After weeks of private discussions, Biden appeared before the media at the White House on Thursday, standing alongside both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, to proudly announce an infrastructure agreement worth $1.2 trillion over eight years. This deal could solidify his reputation as a bipartisan negotiator. Biden and his team had reached a preliminary agreement with centrist senators to focus on rebuilding roads and bridges, while also hinting to progressives that he planned to support a separate measure for spending on climate, education, child care, and other economic priorities. Despite his confidence in his ability to navigate legislative talks, Biden made a slip during a press conference, stating that he would not sign the compromise bill without the partisan one. He emphasized that he would need both bills to be presented to him. "I'm not just going to sign the bipartisan bill and move on," Biden's statement disrupted his moment of bipartisan pride. While it may have pleased liberals, it upset centrist senators and Republicans by suggesting he would only sign their plan if a larger bill was also passed. Senator Susan Collins, a key negotiator, expressed surprise at this linkage between the two bills, which had not been previously mentioned. The White House spent over 24 hours trying to address the fallout, with advisors contacting senators from both parties. On Friday, the president's spokesperson attempted to distance the administration from his remarks in a gentle manner. However, this was not sufficient. By Saturday, with lawmakers and aides still upset and the chance of a legislative victory diminishing, Biden acknowledged that he had misspoken. The controversy did not seem to have jeopardized the deal, but Biden confessed that his statements on Thursday gave the impression that he was threatening to veto the very plan he had just agreed to. This was not his intention, he clarified. The agreement that Biden had praised on Thursday initially appeared to be a significant success for a president who had pledged to pass legislation that was both progressive and bipartisan. It took weeks to put together a bipartisan framework involving Sens Rob Portman and Kyrsten Sinema and eight other centrist colleagues. They aimed to replicate the success of passing a $900 billion coronavirus relief bill in December. Sinema described the easy tasks as quick to complete, while the difficult ones required more time and attention. The possibility of liberal Democrats using reconciliation to bypass the filibuster threshold added tension to the meetings, which eventually led to inviting top Biden advisers Steve Ricchetti, Brian Deese, and Louisa Terrell to join the discussions. For several days, they moved back and forth across the Capitol, even Sinema, who had injured her foot while running a marathon and had to use crutches. They negotiated in private rooms, often having pizza, salads, and wine delivered. Portman's hideaway became so crowded with extra staff that an aide to Sen Mitt Romney had to go through Senate red tape to get a fan for the room. During a late-night session, Ricchetti decided to serve wine to each senator personally, according to two sources. Tensions rose as senators argued over how to fund the plan, with Republicans against raising taxes and the White House against driver user fees. On Wednesday, many centrist senators attended a funeral for former Sen John Warner of Virginia with Biden before returning to the Capitol for final meetings, with thoughts of bipartisan agreements in mind. Sen Mark Warner, who is not related to John Warner but considered him a friend, pondered what John Warner would do in a situation. He believed that most people in the room had also reflected on this. The 10 senators emerged around 7 pm with a unified message: they had a framework and planned to go to the White House the following day. The plan was to go in tandem after weeks of closed-door negotiations. This moment seemed to validate a president who was confident in his ability to navigate tough legislative negotiations, despite concerns from his own party that the talks were becoming difficult for his economic goals. Biden's team hoped that by achieving a bipartisan agreement, they could gain the support of centrist Democratic senators for a larger bill addressing various liberal priorities, funded by tax increases on corporations and the wealthy. Some Republicans, encouraged by business leaders, tried to halt the comprehensive bill by persuading moderate Democrats that the more limited infrastructure bill was sufficient. Lawmakers and Biden believed it was a crucial moment to demonstrate that the government could still operate effectively. Senator Jon Tester warned that failure would highlight the dysfunction within the government. Senator Mark Warner emphasized the importance of the message it would send to both Americans and international observers. Progressive lawmakers had concerns that the limited bill would prevent the passage of a larger bill. Senator Chuck Schumer addressed these concerns on the Senate floor, emphasizing the plan he and Speaker Nancy Pelosi had devised with the president. Schumer emphasized the connection between the two efforts and stated that Speaker Pelosi also agrees that both must be done together. It is understood by all parties involved that in order to pass either, there must be enough votes to pass both. Biden also expressed his commitment to working with Pelosi and Schumer to ensure that both initiatives progress through the legislative process together and quickly. Biden made it clear that he wanted both the bipartisan infrastructure measure and the bigger Democratic bill to be passed together. He stated that if only one bill was presented to him for signing, he would not approve it. "It's happening at the same time." Senators left Washington on Thursday afternoon for a two-week recess for Fourth of July, and it wasn't until later in the evening that some of the negotiators saw Biden's comments, which Republicans saw as an implicit veto threat. Senators and their staff members started texting and calling each other and the White House. Liberal Democrats dismissed the Republican frustration and accused them of looking for a reason to oppose the deal, even though the Democrats' pursuit of reconciliation had been public for a long time. On Saturday, Biden admitted his mistake as lawmakers and aides indicated they would continue with writing text and securing support. "The bottom line is this," he said. "I promised to back the infrastructure plan and I plan to follow through on that promise. I will push for the passage of the plan that both Democrats and Republicans agreed on with determination. This plan is beneficial for the economy, our nation, and our citizens. I wholeheartedly support it without any doubts or delays." (The New York Times, 2021) | 1 |
The prime minister expressed concern about how a party with leaders facing criminal charges and convictions could win an election during a media briefing on Monday. She questioned why people would vote for a party whose leaders are involved in corruption and criminal activities, and accused the opposition party of trying to undermine the election process due to lack of confidence in their ability to win. The press conference was initiated by the prime minister at 4 pm on Monday at her official residence Ganabhaban in Dhaka. Hasina had recently returned from a two-week visit to the US, marking her first trip abroad since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. During her visit, she participated in the UNGA and other significant events from Sept 19-23. Last year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the prime minister attended the UNGA virtually. On Sept 24, she delivered a speech at the UNGA urging the international community to work together on global issues and foster new partnerships and solutions to address emergencies. Hasina mentioned in her speech that the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the global response to emergencies' inadequacies and emphasized the importance of global solidarity and collaboration. She attended a meeting on climate change in New York on Sept 20 at the invitation of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Hasina planted a sapling at the UN Headquarters on the same day to commemorate the birth centenary of Bangladesh's founding father Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Additionally, she participated in a virtual event called 'Sustainable Development Solution Network' on the same day. On September 21, Hasina participated in the opening session of the general debate at the UN Headquarters. She also attended the 'Business Roundtable: US-Bangladesh Business Council' event on the same day. The prime minister delivered a speech at the 'White House Global COVID-19 Summit: Ending the Pandemic and Building Back Better'. Additionally, she took part in an event discussing sustainable solutions to the Rohingya crisis during the UNGA. Hasina engaged in bilateral meetings with Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Vietnam President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, UN chief Guterres, and various other leaders in New York. | 1 |
An online poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos this month asked 2,809 Americans to assess the level of threat posed by various countries, organizations, and individuals to the United States, using a scale of 1 to 5. Among Republicans, 34 percent viewed Obama as an imminent threat, surpassing Putin (25 percent) and Assad (23 percent). The poll results were not surprising given the intense political polarization in the United States, according to sociologist Barry Glassner, author of "The Culture of Fear: Why Americans are afraid of the wrong things." Glassner noted that demonizing the current officeholder is common in American politics, and predicted that fear-mongering would be a prominent feature of the 2016 presidential campaign by both the Republican and Democratic parties. He stated that the television media and American politics heavily rely on instilling fear. The Ipsos survey, conducted from March 16 to March 24, involved 1,083 Democrats and 1,059 Republicans. According to the survey, 27% of Republicans viewed the Democratic Party as a pressing danger to the country, while 22% of Democrats considered Republicans to be an immediate threat. The respondents expressed the most concern about potential terror threats, with 58% seeing Islamic State militants as an imminent danger and 43% feeling the same about al Qaeda. A survey found that 34 percent of respondents viewed North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un as a threat, while 27 percent saw Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as a threat. Cyber attacks were considered an imminent threat by 39 percent of respondents, while drug trafficking was seen as a significant threat by a third of those surveyed. Democrats were more concerned about climate change than Republicans, with 33 percent of Democrats viewing global warming as an imminent threat. Among Republicans, 27 percent believed that climate change was not a threat at all. The data was adjusted to represent the US population and has a credibility interval of plus or minus 2.1 percentage points for all adults (3.4 points for Democrats and 3.4 points for Republicans). | 1 |
Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna is traveling to China next week in order to strengthen the recently improved relationship between the two countries. This improvement has been driven by a surge in trade and collaboration on climate change, which has diverted attention away from a border dispute. Despite ongoing tensions between Beijing and Washington, Indian analysts believe that India and China stand to benefit from maintaining a positive relationship. The two countries have been able to move past the global financial crisis more quickly than developed nations, and are looking to capitalize on a decade of economic growth that has made China India's top trading partner. The turning point in their relationship appears to have been the climate conference in Copenhagen, where India and China were able to work together to reach a compromise despite facing criticism for obstructing a more ambitious agreement. In a recent article in the Business Standard, Sanjaya Baru, former media adviser to India's prime minister, observed that there has been a noticeable shift in China's attitude towards India, with a new warmth in their tone. Both China and India, as the largest and fourth-largest emitters of greenhouse gases, are urging wealthy nations to take the lead in combating global warming, while also prioritizing economic growth over stringent climate commitments. This shift comes as Indian Foreign Minister Krishna prepares to embark on a four-day visit to China, following recent tensions over border disputes and the Dalai Lama's visit to Arunachal Pradesh. Despite ongoing mistrust stemming from past conflicts, both countries are working to improve relations and address mutual concerns. China was upset when the Dalai Lama visited a disputed area in Arunachal Pradesh, which they see as evidence of his separatist intentions. Despite tensions in the past, both India and China now seem to be aiming for a more peaceful and practical relationship. India's Foreign Minister mentioned concerns about the border before his visit, and there is a feeling that both countries are trying to avoid escalating conflicts through verbal sparring. Trade Minister Anand Sharma has expressed concerns about the Chinese currency impacting Indian industry. However, unlike the United States, India has chosen not to pressure China to strengthen the yuan, despite China being the world's fastest growing economy. The increase in bilateral trade has had both positive and negative effects on India, with India now facing a trade deficit with China that has grown significantly over the years. While there have been disputes over tariffs and perceived protectionist measures, India has recently launched more anti-dumping investigations against China than any other country. Despite these challenges, both countries acknowledge that their trade and investment relationship has not reached its full potential and have agreed to work towards balancing trade flows. The World Trade Organisation projected a 9.5 percent increase in global trade volumes in 2010, with expectations that two countries will lead this expansion. However, there are concerns in India about China's increasing military power, highlighted by reports of Chinese hackers targeting Indian computers. Additionally, India is apprehensive about losing strategic influence in Afghanistan to rival Pakistan. | 1 |
Government officials announced on Thursday that Britain is urging the UN security council to address climate change to emphasize its potential threat to global stability. With Britain set to assume the presidency of the United Nations in April, Prime Minister Tony Blair and Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett are leading the initiative, as they believe the timing is appropriate given the topic's prominence at European Union and G8 summits. Downing Street confirmed that climate change is a top priority for the Prime Minister, while a Foreign Office official stated the goal is to integrate climate security into foreign policy discussions. "We believe that climate change has the potential to worsen many of the global insecurities that contribute to global tension and conflict," stated the official. They did not comment on reports in the newspaper that Britain, currently discussing the idea with other member states, faced opposition from the United States and South Africa. Many government ministers are pleased with the increasing recognition of the potential impact of climate change and the goals set for cutting greenhouse gas emissions at this week's EU summit. British Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett, a former environment minister, has warned that failing to address climate change could lead to famine, water shortages, and energy infrastructure failures, posing a threat to global security. Beckett emphasized the importance of developed countries taking action in the next 10 years in a speech to the UN general assembly last September. Experts are cautioning that climate change could lead to severe tensions in volatile regions like the Middle East by depleting resources. International Alert recently warned that global warming may trigger conflicts in various parts of the world as people move due to unviable habitats. This could further strain already fragile situations, as seen in fighting over water rights in Kenya's Rift Valley. Deforestation has caused disputes in various areas, such as South East Asia. | 1 |
China is urging wealthy nations to support a fund that will help accelerate the dissemination of technology aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in developing countries. China is emphasizing the responsibility of the West in addressing climate change and is advocating for increased financial support from rich countries to promote the adoption of clean technology. At global warming talks in Bali, China, as the world's largest emitter of carbon dioxide, is facing pressure to set emission targets, but is also pushing for financial assistance for technology transfer. Zou Ji from the People's University of China in Beijing, who is part of his country's delegation to Bali, expressed the need for a substantial fund for technology transfers and development. He emphasized the lack of progress in spreading clean coal-power and emissions-cutting technology, and called for developed countries to show their commitment. Ji suggested that this fund could be managed by a new body focused on promoting technology transfers but acknowledged that negotiations would take time. China is also seeking clear commitments on technology and increased funds for adapting to climate change impacts, such as droughts and rising sea levels. These demands align with China's strategy to stand with other developing nations and shift attention to wealthy countries, particularly the United States, which has not ratified the Kyoto Protocol. "The main challenge is the United States," Hu Tao from Beijing Normal University, who previously worked in a state environmental think tank, stated. "While China needs to be part of the solution, it is crucial for developed countries to take action to reduce their own emissions and assist us in reducing ours." China argues that it is unjust to expect them to adhere to emissions limits since global warming is largely the result of the long-standing pollution generated by wealthier nations. According to the United Nations, Americans emitted an average of 20.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide per person in 2004, compared to 3.8 tonnes per person in China. A senior Chinese official involved in climate change policy, Gao Guangsheng, recently expressed to Reuters that China has faced obstacles in acquiring clean power-generation technology due to concerns from foreign politicians and companies about intellectual property theft, lost profits, and sensitive technology. Zou, an advisor, suggested the creation of a technology transfer body that would combine government support with private investment to alleviate concerns about financial returns and protection of intellectual property. China has ambitious goals to improve energy efficiency and transition from coal to renewable energy sources, but it fell short of its efficiency target in 2006. Zhang Haibin, a climate change expert at Peking University, proposed that increased funding could support collaborative research projects and assist developing countries in creating their own energy-saving technologies. The emphasis is on not just purchasing technology, but on developing it domestically. Zhang expressed a desire to learn how to fish independently rather than rely on purchasing fish at high prices. | 1 |
Russian voters have significantly reduced the parliamentary majority of Vladimir Putin's ruling party in an election that highlighted a growing dissatisfaction with his control over the country as he prepares to return to the presidency. Initial results indicate that Putin's United Russia party struggled to secure even 50 percent of the votes in Sunday's election, a sharp decline from the more than 64 percent they received four years ago. Opposition parties have accused the government of inflating the results through fraud. Despite the likelihood of Putin winning the presidential election in March, the outcome of Sunday's election may weaken the authority of the leader who has governed for nearly 12 years through a combination of tough security measures, political skill, and public displays, but who faced public criticism after a recent martial arts event. United Russia had received 49.94 percent of the votes after 70 percent of voting districts had reported their results for the State Duma election. Exit polls also indicated that United Russia was below 50 percent. Vladimir Ryzhkov, a liberal opposition leader who was prohibited from running, stated that the elections were unique due to the lack of trust in Putin, Medvedev, and the ruling party. He believes that the upcoming presidential election in March will result in an even larger political crisis, with increased disappointment, frustration, and protest votes. Putin is known for restoring order in a country that was in chaos after the collapse of the Soviet Union, including crushing a separatist rebellion in Chechnya, regaining control over unruly regions, and overseeing an economic recovery. He has cultivated a tough guy persona by performing daring stunts like riding a horse shirtless, hunting tigers, and flying a fighter jet. However, the public seems to be growing tired of his antics and his popularity, while still strong, has decreased. Many voters, frustrated with widespread corruption, view United Russia as the party of dishonest individuals and resent the widening gap between the wealthy and the poor. Some are concerned that Putin's return to the presidency could result in economic and political stagnation. Putin and Medvedev, who took over the presidency in 2008 when Putin had to step down after serving two consecutive terms, briefly appeared at a subdued meeting at United Russia headquarters. Putin stated that the outcome was optimal. Medvedev stated that United Russia, previously holding a two-thirds majority, is willing to form alliances on specific issues in order to gain support for legislation. Putin, aged 59, called this result optimal and reflective of the country's current situation, ensuring stable development. However, with indications that voters feel deceived by Putin's decision to switch roles with Medvedev and disheartened by the idea of one man in power for over a decade, Putin's return to the presidency may be more challenging. Andrei Piontkovsky, a political analyst, stated that the recent election results signify the beginning of the end, indicating a decline in both the party's and the country's leaders' prestige. The Communist Party saw significant gains in the election, almost doubling their vote to around 20 percent, two decades after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Sergei Obukhov, a communist parliamentarian, mentioned that Russia now faces a new political reality, regardless of any attempts to alter the outcome. Many voters cast their ballots in protest against United Russia rather than in genuine support of communist ideals, viewing the Party as the only credible opposition force. Yulia Serpikova, a 27-year-old freelance location manager in the film industry, expressed her sadness at having to vote for the Communists despite promising her grandfather she never would. Opposition parties raised concerns about election irregularities across a vast area, with reports of hacking targeting Western-financed electoral watchdogs and liberal media outlets. Despite President Medvedev denying electoral fraud, protests occurred in St Petersburg and Moscow resulting in multiple arrests. Opposition parties are claiming that the election was biased from the beginning due to the authorities' backing of United Russia with financial support and television coverage. Independent political analyst Dmitry Oreshkin pointed out that United Russia's support decreased even more in urban areas, where they received 30-35 percent of the votes compared to the Communist Party's 20-25 percent. Oreshkin believes this is a challenging situation for Putin, as he is accustomed to having complete control but now faces a presidential campaign with United Russia alienating people against their leader. Putin still does not have any significant competitors as Russia's leader. He continues to be the main decision-maker between the groups that oversee the largest energy producer in the world. This situation is also a setback for Medvedev, who guided United Russia during the election. There may now be doubts about his legitimacy as the future prime minister. | 1 |
President Barack Obama will propose a significant increase in US auto fuel efficiency on Tuesday, which includes directly regulating emissions for the first time and addressing a dispute with California over cleaner cars. The proposal would raise average fuel standards for all new passenger vehicles by 10 miles per gallon to 35.5 miles per gallon between 2012-16, resulting in a 30% decrease in climate-warming carbon emissions. The initiative is expected to save 1.8 billion barrels of oil and require all companies to produce more efficient and cleaner cars. Major US and overseas automakers, such as General Motors Corp and Toyota Motor Corp, support the plan. GM's CEO Fritz Henderson believes that having more consistency and certainty in regulations will benefit both GM and the auto industry. Toyota's President James Lentz also supports the idea of a single national standard, stating that it will provide consumers with more vehicle choices. The new program, which will increase the cost of producing a vehicle by about $600 compared to current regulations, aims to achieve a fleet average of 35 mpg by 2020. US auto companies have resisted fuel efficiency standards for many years, but tighter targets were agreed upon in 2007. Some vehicles, particularly those made by overseas manufacturers, already meet or exceed the proposed standards. California previously wanted to have its own regulations for reducing auto emissions, but the Bush administration did not allow it. Auto companies also opposed this idea, fearing it would lead to different rules in different states. Now, California has agreed to follow the national standard proposed by Obama. Senator Barbara Boxer sees this as a positive step towards reducing global warming and decreasing America's reliance on foreign oil. The 30 percent decrease in emissions is more ambitious than what California and other supportive states have requested. In April, the administration shifted policies by recognizing climate-warming pollution as a threat to human health and welfare, allowing for the regulation of emissions. This new approach would allow automakers flexibility in meeting standards and consider the environmental impact of carbon-based fuels and emissions from other vehicle systems. David Friedman, research director at the Union of Concerned Scientists, believes this could be a significant step forward in promoting clean cars. The plan is based on an assumption of average gas prices reaching $3.50 per gallon by 2016, which officials hope will encourage consumers to choose more fuel-efficient vehicles. Automakers are actively working on improving hybrid and electric cars, but recent drops in gas prices have led to an increase in sales of less efficient pickups and SUVs. To boost the industry, Congress is discussing a proposal to give consumers up to $4,500 to trade in older, less fuel-efficient vehicles for ones with better gas mileage. Additionally, a US congressional committee started a week-long debate on climate change, with Democrats pushing for a bill to combat global warming and Republicans opposing a key aspect of the plan. | 1 |
At the world's largest ever summit on climate change in Copenhagen's Bella Centre, an oversight was pointed out by an attendee regarding the giant model of the earth hanging in the venue. Small, low-lying Pacific island nations like Tuvalu and the Cook Islands were not painted on the globe, and Antarctica was also missing. Scientists warn that rising global temperatures will result in higher sea levels by the end of the century due to melting polar ice caps. Despite pleas from island nations for major economies like China and the United States to reach a new climate agreement during the 12-day talks, the question remains: was this omission an embarrassing mistake on the part of the organisers? The UN climate talks concluded with a minimal agreement on Saturday, where delegates acknowledged an accord reached by the United States, China, and other emerging powers. This agreement fell short of the conference's original objectives, leading many to criticize the talks as a failure. The accord, which is not as strong as a legally binding treaty or even the anticipated 'political' deal, lacked specifics on how to achieve its goal of limiting global warming to 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. This has left much room for interpretation and a difficult path ahead. The text outlined the possibility of $100 billion in annual aid starting in 2020 for developing countries, without identifying the exact source of this funding. It deferred important decisions, such as reducing emissions, to be addressed later. The next round of climate negotiations is set for November 2010 in Mexico, with the goal of finalizing a new treaty to replace the Kyoto Protocol, though success is not certain. | 1 |
A press release announced that a three-member delegation from the European Parliament's Committee on Development will be visiting Bangladesh from Sunday to Tuesday. The delegation includes Al Svensson from Sweden, Franziska Keller from Germany, and Niccob Rinaldi from Italy. During their visit, they will focus on assessing the effects of climate change and the issue of food security. The delegation will meet with prime minister Sheikh Hasina, speaker Abdul Hamid, and various ministers responsible for food and risk management, environment and forests, and women and children affairs. They will also visit several climate change and disaster management projects. | 1 |
Ethiopia's prime minister stated that the increase in trade between China and India and their increased investment in Africa, along with greater tolerance from traditional partners, has had a positive impact on the continent's development. He emphasized that African countries now have more control over their own destinies. China's trade with Africa grew significantly from $364 million in 1978 to $40 billion in 2005, while India's trade rose from $613 million to $11 billion during the same period. This influx of money, along with the no-strings-attached trade and aid policies of China and India, has influenced Western donors to ease restrictions on funding in Africa. Meles noted a noticeable shift in the attitudes of traditional development partners, with a greater acceptance of alternative development approaches in Africa. He also highlighted the increased interest from India and China, which has brought new investment and technology to the continent, contributing to Africa's rapid economic growth. Despite this growth, trade among African nations remains low, making up only a small portion of total trade on the continent according to the African Union. Meles addressed development issues such as increasing food and energy prices and the impact of climate change on African economies at an African Union-UN Economic Commission for Africa conference. He mentioned that China and India's growing demand for food, raw materials, and commodities had both positive and negative effects on Africa, contributing to a rise in commodity prices and posing risks to African economies. The African Union and United Nations issued a statement on Monday warning that the rising cost of staples had caused social disruptions in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Senegal, and Mauritania in 2008. Abdoulie Janneh, who serves as U.N. under-secretary general and executive secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, expressed concern about the impact of high food and oil prices on the continent. He emphasized the need for Africa to find a balance between its role as a producer and a consumer in order to ensure that essential goods remain affordable without hindering the incentive for increased production. | 1 |
According to sources, Trump praised Erdogan to the German chancellor, who then informed him of Erdogan's recent criticism towards Germany and its allies. Trump seemed unaware of the tension between Ankara and Berlin over Turkish ministers campaigning in Germany. The White House did not provide a comment on the situation. The German government refused to make a statement, stating that the call was confidential. This conversation took place shortly after Chancellor Merkel visited President Trump in Washington, highlighting the difficulties she faces in establishing a relationship with a leader who European officials have described as unpredictable, unprepared, and prone to exaggerated statements. Six months after Trump's election and just over a week before his first trip to Europe as president, officials in Berlin and other European capitals are still uncertain about the Trump administration's stance on key issues. Despite this uncertainty, there is some relief that US foreign policy has not drastically changed as feared since Trump took office. Trump has since stopped calling NATO outdated. He has maintained distance from Russia's Vladimir Putin. With the exception of a recent comment linking an attack in Paris to far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Trump has not interfered in European affairs or tried to weaken the European Union. His National Security Adviser Mike Flynn was dismissed and replaced by H.R. McMaster, who is viewed as a competent and stable figure. The power of Steve Bannon, a White House adviser that concerns Europeans, may be diminishing. Peter Wittig, the German ambassador to Washington, stated that there is a positive working relationship currently. However, there are ongoing concerns about the president's character and his various policies. German officials are particularly worried about potential protectionist measures under Trump, despite his softer approach towards China and his decision to abandon plans for a border adjustment tax. European diplomats are also uneasy about the perceived lack of a clear U.S. strategy on Syria, with some expressing apprehension after the sudden dismissal of FBI director James Comey, which they believe demonstrates Trump's tendency to make impulsive decisions on significant matters. Reports that he shared extremely confidential information with the Russian foreign minister during a meeting in the Oval Office last week are expected to increase the level of distrust in European capitals. "Concerns about the competence of Trump's team, particularly in foreign and security matters, have diminished," noted one experienced German diplomat. "However, doubts about Trump himself, including his personality, maturity, and reliability, have only intensified." Another German official added, "The impact of Trump on his own administration should not be underestimated." German Chancellor Angela Merkel faces a particularly challenging situation due to her reliance on the relationship with Trump. Germany depends greatly on the United States for its security. A reciprocal protectionist escalation could put its export-driven economy at risk. In July, just before Germany's election, Merkel will host a challenging G20 summit in Hamburg, where Trump is set to meet Putin for the first time. Turkish President Erdogan and China's Xi Jinping will also attend. Merkel has been in conflict with Putin and Erdogan for more than ten years and has collaborated with two U.S. presidents prior to Trump. She developed a strong relationship with George W. Bush during his second term, which was more favorable towards Europe. Despite a rocky start with Barack Obama when she denied him a chance to speak at the Brandenburg Gate in 2008, they eventually formed a close bond. Prior to meeting with Trump in Brussels on May 25, she will be seen with Obama at the central Berlin landmark. Trump poses a distinct challenge due to his unpredictable nature and mixed feelings towards Europe. He is not well-liked in Germany, making it politically difficult for her to align too closely with him during an election year, as acknowledged by her aides. Despite previous tensions between Merkel and Trump, there is a sense of satisfaction in Berlin that they have started their relationship relatively smoothly. They have spoken on the phone four times since mid-March and both leaders have downplayed the incident where Trump did not shake Merkel's hand during her visit to the Oval Office. Trump has even mentioned that he has good chemistry with Merkel. German officials believe that Merkel is making a systematic effort to minimize tensions with Trump, as shown by her invitation to his daughter Ivanka to attend a G20 women's summit in Berlin. They observe that Trump has not withdrawn from the Paris climate agreement, NAFTA, or the nuclear agreement with Iran, despite his campaign promises to do so. Trump has stated that he will wait until after the G7 summit in late May to decide on the climate agreement, where Merkel and other European leaders are likely to strongly advocate for him to remain in the agreement. A senior French official remarked that there are indications that Trump's administration can be influenced, as they are receptive to input and may be more flexible and receptive to different perspectives than previously believed. During Merkel's visit in March, she took the time to explain to Trump and his team how the European Union operated. After four hours of meetings, which included a one-on-one session between the two leaders, a meeting with business executives, and a lunch, Trump abandoned his push for a bilateral trade deal with Germany and agreed that only a deal with the EU was feasible. While German officials believe that the chances of reviving TTIP, the transatlantic trade deal Europe attempted to finalize with Obama, are slim, they were pleased that Trump appeared willing to negotiate with the EU. They were also relieved that Trump was receptive to their concerns. At the end of a two-hour lunch, Trump's aides reminded him it was time to head to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida for the weekend, but he declined, stating that the discussion was going well and he needed to stay. German officials were pleasantly surprised when, 10 days after a visit, Trump called Merkel to congratulate her on a surprising win for her party in Saarland. However, one source mentioned that during the call, Trump complained about "fake polls". The White House did not respond to a request for comment, and the German government also declined to comment. In recent months, German officials have been actively reaching out to various officials in Washington, including those in the White House and Congress. German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble met with Trump's economic adviser Gary Cohn during the spring meetings of the IMF and World Bank last month. His deputy Jens Spahn visited the White House and met with Bannon and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner. German officials believe this outreach is crucial due to the vacancies in top policy positions at the State Department since Trump's inauguration. However, it is also a way to hedge their bets as no one can predict who Trump will be influenced by today or in the future. Robin Niblett, director of the London-based think tank Chatham House, emphasized the importance of not relying solely on one source of influence within the administration. Trump's behavior is inconsistent, with deals being made one day and then falling through the next. It is important to be cautious and protect yourself, as he can turn on you unexpectedly. | 1 |
Edison Research, the organization that made the announcement, also predicted that North Carolina, the only other closely contested state with votes still being counted, would be won by Trump, resulting in a final electoral vote count of 306 for Biden and 232 for Trump. This victory for Biden, a Democrat, over Trump, a Republican, in the Electoral College was considered a significant win, similar to the 306 votes Trump received in his victory over Hillary Clinton in 2016, which he referred to as a "landslide." Despite Trump not yet conceding, Biden's team confirmed they were moving forward with transition plans. Although the popular vote does not determine the election outcome, Biden was leading by more than 5.3 million votes, or 3.4 percentage points. His share of the popular vote, at 50.8%, was slightly higher than Ronald Reagan's share in 1980 when he defeated Jimmy Carter. Trump, a member of the Republican party, has alleged, without proof, that he was a victim of widespread election fraud and has refused to accept defeat. Election officials at the state level have not reported any major irregularities, and many of his legal challenges have been unsuccessful in court. In order to secure a second term, Trump would need to overturn Biden's lead in at least three states, but he has not been able to provide evidence that he could do so in any of them. States have until December 8th to certify their elections and select electors for the Electoral College, which will officially choose the next president on December 14th. A Michigan state court recently denied Trump's request to block the certification of votes in Detroit, where Biden received strong support. Lawyers representing Trump's campaign dropped a lawsuit in Arizona due to the final vote count making it irrelevant. Federal election security officials have confirmed that there is no evidence of any voting system tampering in any way, according to two security groups. Trump was scheduled to speak publicly on Friday for the first time since Biden was declared the winner of the election on Nov. 7. The White House announced that he would discuss the government and drugmakers' efforts to find effective treatments for the coronavirus pandemic. Biden officials stated they would continue with the transition process, focusing on legislative priorities, reviewing federal agency policies, and preparing to fill numerous positions in the new administration. "We are moving forward with the transition," said Jen Psaki, a senior adviser to Biden's transition team, during a conference call on Friday. She emphasized the importance of Biden receiving up-to-date information from the Trump administration to address the ongoing pandemic and national security risks. Psaki called on Trump's White House to provide Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris with daily intelligence briefings on global threats. She expressed concern that without access to this information, the national security team, president-elect, and vice president-elect are at a disadvantage. Psaki stated that Biden will be briefed by his own national-security experts next week. He once again met with transition advisers on Friday at his Delaware beach house to strategize his approach to the pandemic and select his top appointees, including Cabinet members. Trump's refusal to acknowledge defeat has caused a delay in the official transition process. The General Services Administration, the federal agency responsible for releasing funding to the president-elect, has not yet recognized Biden's victory, preventing him from accessing federal office space and resources. Trump reportedly indicated to Fox News correspondent Geraldo Rivera that he would adhere to the US Constitution and hand over his office once all votes are counted, calling himself a realist. Rivera stated in an interview with Fox that he was assured by the person that he would act in accordance with what is morally correct. Rivera did not perceive any intentions of overthrowing the elected government, but rather a desire for a fair competition. | 1 |
As wheat and rice prices continue to rise, the potato is gaining recognition as a cost-effective and nutritious crop that could help alleviate hunger worldwide. India aims to increase potato production by twofold within the next five to 10 years. China, traditionally reliant on rice and prone to famines, now leads in potato cultivation. In Sub-Saharan Africa, the potato is experiencing significant growth compared to other crops. Potatoes, originally from Peru, can thrive in a variety of climates and elevations, from the cold Andes Mountains to the tropical regions of Asia. They need very little water, can be ready in just 50 days, and can produce two to four times more food per hectare than wheat or rice. Pamela Anderson, director of the International Potato Center in Lima, warns of potential food shortages and believes potatoes could help address this issue. The potato is seen as a solution to hunger caused by factors such as rising food prices, increasing population, higher costs for fertilizer and fuel, and more land being used for biofuel production. The United Nations designated 2008 as the International Year of the Potato to raise awareness of its potential as a valuable resource. Peru's government has introduced a program promoting the use of potato flour in breadmaking in response to the rising prices of wheat. This initiative aims to provide potato bread to various groups, such as school children, prisoners, and the military, with the hope of popularizing this alternative. Advocates of potato bread claim it is just as delicious as wheat bread, but there is a lack of mills equipped to produce potato flour. Peru's agriculture minister, Ismael Benavides, believes that changing people's dietary preferences is necessary in order to address this issue. People became dependent on wheat due to its affordability. Despite the potato originating in Peru 8,000 years ago, Europeans consume more potatoes than Peruvians. Belarus is the top consumer of potatoes globally, with each person consuming an average of 376 pounds per year. In Latvia, rising bread prices have led to a decrease in sales and an increase in potato consumption. In the developing world, the majority of new potato crops are being planted, providing an opportunity for poor farmers to increase their income as consumption grows. Countries are recognizing the potato as a beneficial option for enhancing food security and generating income. Despite being the world's third most important food crop after wheat and rice, potatoes are often associated with the Idaho variety in the United States, but in reality there are around 5,000 different types of potatoes available in a variety of colors. Peru is providing numerous seeds to the Doomsday Vault near the Arctic Circle this year, contributing to a gene bank for food crops as a precaution against a global disaster. Potatoes come in a variety of colors, shapes, and textures, allowing creative chefs to make visually appealing dishes. Juan Carlos Mescco, a 17-year-old potato farmer in Peru's Andes, enjoys eating potatoes in different ways throughout the day. Potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates that provide slow-release energy and have a low fat content compared to wheat. Boiled potatoes have fewer calories than bread and more protein and calcium than corn, according to the Potato Center. They have vitamin C, iron, potassium, and zinc. The potato remains affordable because it is not a global commodity like wheat, so it has not attracted speculative professional investment. Wheat production is almost double that of potato output, with only about 5 percent of potatoes being traded internationally. Prices are mainly driven by local tastes rather than international demand. Raw potatoes are difficult to transport due to their weight and tendency to spoil, which has hindered global trade in them. Additionally, they are prone to diseases, making exporting them a challenge to prevent the spread of plant pathogens. This has resulted in unattractive prices in some regions, discouraging farmers from growing them. People in Peruvian markets believe that the government should intervene to increase demand for potatoes as prices are currently low. Juana Villavicencio, who worked with potatoes for 15 years, now sells them for very little money in a market in Cusco, Peru. However, there are new genetically modified potatoes being developed by BASF that are resistant to "late blight," a disease that caused famine in Ireland in the 19th century and still causes significant losses in potato harvests worldwide. Using clean, virus-free seeds can increase yields by 30 percent and allow for exportation, according to scientists. This would result in an increase in revenue for farmers and would also motivate companies to expand their production by selling specialty potatoes internationally rather than limiting sales to frozen french fries or potato chips. | 1 |
Vice President Jusuf Kalla stated that Indonesia has the potential to achieve a similar growth rate as economic powerhouses China and India, as long as it addresses its infrastructure issues and attracts more foreign investment. Despite experiencing its fastest growth in 11 years at 6.3 percent, Indonesia still trails behind China's projected 11.5 percent growth and India's anticipated 9 percent growth. Kalla expressed confidence in Indonesia's ability to reach this level of growth by improving infrastructure and implementing investor-friendly regulations. President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, who was elected in 2004, has focused on combating corruption, boosting growth, and creating jobs. Kalla highlighted the government's efforts to address obstacles to growth, such as corruption and labor laws that deter investors. The wealthy businessman from Indonesia's Sulawesi island described the current period as a transition phase, with a presidential election scheduled for 2009. Kalla is considered a potential rival to Yudhoyono rather than his partner in the upcoming election. When questioned about his intentions to run alongside or against Yudhoyono, Kalla stated that the decision would be made in 2009 and is not solely his own decision, but also a party decision. Despite leading the dominant Golkar party in parliament, Kalla did not dismiss the possibility of running for president. Kalla remained optimistic about the economy despite the recent decline in the rupiah currency, attributing it to concerns about high oil prices and government fuel subsidies. He expressed confidence in the central bank's ability to address the situation, noting that they typically intervene when the rupiah falls between 9,300 and 9,500 per dollar. The responsible for forests in the world, Kalla, expressed confidence in the economy meeting a government growth target of 6.8 percent next year. He stated that there are no plans to cut or reduce fuel subsidies, which are politically sensitive in Indonesia. Past cuts in subsidies have resulted in riots, and with elections scheduled for 2009, analysts believe the government is unlikely to make any cuts. Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati mentioned that energy subsidies could reach 88.2 trillion rupiah ($9.37 billion) this year, exceeding the 55.6 trillion rupiah allocated in the 2007 budget. Kalla also stated that nuclear energy is not a priority for Indonesia due to budget constraints, safety concerns, and the country's preference for other energy sources like geothermal and hydropower. Indonesia has plans to construct its first nuclear plant by 2016, but this has raised concerns among environmentalists about the risk of a nuclear accident given the country's frequent earthquakes. Kalla believes that Indonesia, with its significant portion of the world's tropical rain forests, is justified in asking wealthier nations to contribute financially to the preservation of forests in order to combat global warming. Indonesia, set to host a UN climate change conference in Bali with representatives from 190 countries, supports a program that would allow emission reductions from forests to be traded as carbon credits. It is estimated that Indonesia could potentially earn over $13 billion by protecting its forests if the plan is approved in Bali. Kalla emphasized the importance of global responsibility in preventing the exploitation of Indonesian timber by wealthier nations. | 1 |
According to travel firm ForwardKeys, international airline bookings to Southeast Asia had reached 38% of pre-pandemic levels by late March, a significant increase from less than 10% at the beginning of the year. Singapore and the Philippines saw a notable increase in bookings, with Philippines tourism minister Bernadette Romulo-Puyat stating that they were the first to eliminate bureaucratic obstacles for tourists, allowing them to freely explore upon arrival. These countries now mandate that vaccinated travelers only need to undergo a rapid antigen test before arriving, while Thailand's more complex requirements have caused it to fall out of favor as a top tourist destination. According to data from ForwardKeys, bookings in Singapore and the Philippines have reached 72% and 65% of 2019 levels, respectively, while Thailand is only at 24%. Marisa Sukosol Nunbhakdi, president of the Thai Hotels Association, noted that the cost of on-arrival PCR tests in Thailand, which can range from 2,000 to 2,500 baht ($60-$75), can be a significant expense, especially for groups, leading people to hesitate to travel. If another country has fewer entry requirements, travelers are more likely to choose that destination to avoid unnecessary hassle. It is important to note that bookings serve as a forward-looking indicator, and arrival figures also include returning locals. According to Brendan Sobie, an independent aviation analyst, Singapore and the Philippines have larger outbound markets compared to Thailand. Asia is experiencing a slower recovery compared to other regions such as Europe, which lifted restrictions months ago. The International Air Transport Association predicts that domestic and international air traffic in the Asia Pacific will only reach 68% of 2019 levels this year and not return to pre-pandemic levels until 2025, lagging behind the rest of the world by a year. In February, visitor numbers to Singapore increased significantly compared to the previous year due to eased entry restrictions, but this only accounted for 9% of arrivals in February 2020 and included a large number of work visa holders from Malaysia and India. According to the governor of Thailand's central bank, Thailand is expected to fully recover by 2026. In 2019, tourism made up approximately 12% of the country's GDP. Southeast Asia's travel and tourism industry, which is known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and warm climate, contributed $380.6 billion to the region's GDP in 2019, accounting for 11.8% of the total. Chinese tourists, who were once the largest group of international travelers in Asia, are currently unable to travel due to strict lockdowns. In 2019, over a quarter of the 40 million tourists who visited Thailand were Chinese. This year, Thailand is anticipating international arrivals from neighboring countries like Malaysia, with an estimated 5 to 10 million visitors. Japan, currently closed to tourists, has had minimal travelers to Southeast Asia, and Russian tourists have been deterred by the conflict in Ukraine. European travelers make up a third of visitors to Southeast Asia this year, up from 22% in 2019, while North American visitors have more than doubled to 21% from 9% in 2019. Asian travelers accounted for only 24% of visitors so far this year, down from 57% in 2019. Rabil Lian, a tour guide with a leading Singaporean travel agency, noted significant improvements in the tourism industry in Europe. After temporarily working for the government during the pandemic, Lian, 51, has returned to his job and has led five tour groups to Europe in the last four months. He mentioned that Australia is also gaining popularity as a destination, but many are eagerly awaiting for Japan and Taiwan to relax their travel restrictions. Additionally, foreign tourist numbers in Vietnam nearly doubled in the first quarter of this year compared to the previous year. The country recently removed almost all restrictions, but it is anticipated to only have about 25% of the number of international visitors it had in 2019. A Singaporean journalist named Justin Ong visited Vietnam last month and noticed that the famous food stores were still operating due to domestic demand, which made him feel like the absence of tourism over the past two years didn't create a significant gap. | 1 |
Four organizations, representing more than 100 insurers, have urged world leaders and governments to utilize insurance-linked products in order to protect developing countries from the effects of climate change. The Geneva Association, ClimateWise, the Munich Climate Insurance Initiative (MCII), and the United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative (UNEP FI) are advocating for the use of improved risk management and insurance strategies to reduce the vulnerability of developing nations to natural disasters. The insurance industry, including reinsurers who spread risk throughout the sector, has traditionally been a key method for mitigating the impact of hurricanes, floods, and other disasters. Insurers have also sought to transfer risks related to natural disasters to investors in the capital markets, such as through catastrophe bonds. For example, Swiss Re and the World Bank collaborated on a $290 million cat bond last year to provide coverage for earthquakes and hurricanes in a specific city. Vanessa Otto-Mentz, head of the strategy unit at Santam and a member of ClimateWise, warned at a news conference in London that if the developed world does not get involved, the risks faced by the developing world will also pose risks to them. Insurers like Munich Re and Allianz Insurance are calling on global governments to utilize the knowledge and expertise of the insurance industry to promote national risk management in developing countries, especially those most susceptible to the effects of climate change. They are also advocating for the creation of new insurance products to cover risks related to climate and weather events, such as human health, crop yields, and animal diseases. Walter Stahel, deputy secretary general at the Geneva Association, emphasized the potential to minimize human and economic suffering through loss prevention and risk transformations. He urged governments to invest in reliable risk data, establish public/private partnerships for catastrophe risk coverage, and promote micro insurance. He stated that the insurance industry has the necessary tools and knowledge, but it is crucial for government leaders to establish the framework and conditions for these tools to be effective. Munich Re, the world's biggest reinsurer, reported that over the past thirty years, global economic losses from natural catastrophes have averaged $90 billion per year, with 78 percent of these disasters being weather-related. Additionally, Munich Re noted that 85 percent of deaths related to natural catastrophes have occurred in developing countries. The four associations will advocate for world leaders and negotiators of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. | 1 |
The freezing cold air from the Arctic arrived after a winter storm in January brought over a foot of snow and sleet to the Northeast, which began melting on Sunday. In a Chicago suburb, a 12-year-old girl tragically died when a snow fort she had built collapsed on her after going to church on Sunday, as reported by the Arlington Heights Police Department. A 9-year-old girl she was playing with suffered from hypothermia after being rescued from the snow, but is expected to survive, according to the police. Temperatures dropped to single-digits Fahrenheit (-20 C) from New York City to Boston and northern New England, causing the melting snow to freeze late Sunday and early Monday, as stated by Marc Chenard at the National Weather Service’s Weather Prediction Center in College Park, Maryland. The strong winds reaching up to 30 to 40 miles per hour (48-64 kph) brought dangerously cold wind chills. According to Chenard, the weather is extremely dangerous and life-threatening, with temperatures in the negative 20s expected in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Boston will be around 3 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chills of minus 12 or lower, while New York City and DC will be in the teens later on. The National Weather Service has issued wind-chill advisories and warnings for over 10 states, spanning from North Dakota to East Coast cities. High temperatures for Monday are predicted to be 17 Fahrenheit for New York City and 12 Fahrenheit for Boston. A large number of Americans had the day off on Monday due to either the holiday or being furloughed federal government workers amidst the longest shutdown in US history. This shutdown is a result of a disagreement over funding President Donald Trump's plans for additional barriers on the US-Mexico border. Flight delays, particularly in New York and New England, decreased to over 7,500 flights on Monday from over 14,000 on Sunday, according to FlightAware.com. The weather on Tuesday is expected to be slightly warmer, with temperatures in the low 20s Fahrenheit in the Northeast, as stated by Chenard. | 1 |
China's chief negotiator for climate change talks expressed optimism about the UN climate talks in Cancun, stating that positive results are possible as long as all parties show sincere political will. Despite clashes between rich and developing nations over the future of the Kyoto Protocol, China believes that the talks will ultimately achieve positive and meaningful outcomes in line with the Bali road map. The negotiator emphasized the importance of compromise on minor issues while standing firm on key principles, such as the continuation of the Kyoto Protocol. China accused certain developed countries of attempting to sabotage the Kyoto Protocol, which is the main tool used by the United Nations to combat climate change and reduce global warming. This accusation comes after a dispute with Japan, Russia, and Canada. China, the world's largest emitter of carbon, has consistently stated that it will not give in to pressure to reconsider its stance on the Protocol. The first phase of the Kyoto Protocol, which requires around 40 wealthy nations to meet emission targets, will expire in 2012, causing concerns among investors who are seeking clarity on future climate policies and financing. While most affluent countries have committed to legally binding emission targets under Kyoto, the United States has not joined the agreement. Developing countries, like China, are expected to take voluntary actions to limit the growth of their emissions. The United States and other wealthy countries are pushing for a new international agreement to address the increasing greenhouse gas emissions coming from developing nations, which now account for over half of the world's annual emissions. However, countries like China and India have rejected the idea of committing to specific targets until they see stronger emission reductions from industrialized nations. | 1 |
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, known for his international role as a Middle East envoy, is now focusing on addressing climate change by proposing a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2050. Blair recently visited Tokyo to introduce his climate change initiative and plans to meet with officials in China and India to discuss his proposals. Blair emphasized the need for a new global agreement with significant emissions reductions, acknowledging the challenge of determining the specifics of such a deal. In a recent interview with the Guardian newspaper, Blair stated that he plans to suggest cutting emissions in half by the middle of the century. He emphasized the urgency of this goal and stressed that achieving a 50 percent reduction by 2050 should be a key focus. Blair also highlighted the importance of securing a comprehensive global agreement, which must involve major emitters such as America and China. Blair's spokesperson, Matthew Doyle, stated that although the United States and the European Union supported Blair's efforts to reduce greenhouse gases by 50 percent, they had not officially agreed to this target. Doyle mentioned that Blair had discussed the initiative with President George W. Bush, Prime Minister Gordon Brown, and Chancellor Angela Merkel. Blair emphasized the urgent need for a global agreement on reducing greenhouse gases within two years, warning that failure to take significant action by 2020 would result in focusing on adaptation rather than prevention. He also noted that simply telling people to consume less would not lead to progress, as countries like China and India are committed to economic growth. He stated that they have a large population of extremely poor individuals and they are planning to industrialize and improve their living conditions, which is appropriate. Blair has been working as an envoy for the Quartet, promoting economic development for Palestinians, since leaving office as prime minister last year. He has faced backlash for taking on profitable business, publishing, and public speaking opportunities. One of his business ventures includes assisting insurer Zurich Financial Services in creating insurance products to address the impacts of climate change. | 1 |
Leaders from the world's major industrialised nations are set to meet on the Baltic coast this week for a G8 summit, where they will attempt to address deep divisions on global warming and various foreign policy issues. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, hosting the event at the Kempinski Grand Hotel in Heiligendamm, has been working tirelessly to pave the way for progress in the fight against climate change. However, her efforts seem futile following US President George W. Bush's recent announcement of a climate strategy that diverges from the approach favored by Merkel and other Europeans. Merkel has expressed the belief that the United Nations, rather than individual countries or groups, should lead global efforts to combat climate change. She anticipates a challenging summit, stating, "We will wrestle with climate change until the very last minute." You will notice that there are conflicting opinions because some things may not make it into the final document. With no agreement on climate issues, the German hosts aim to shift the focus of the June 6-8 meeting to Africa. G8 countries, criticized for not fulfilling promises made two years ago to help combat poverty in Africa, are expected to reconfirm commitments to double development aid by 2010. Additionally, the group, consisting of Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States, will unveil plans to increase funding for AIDS prevention in Africa. However, disagreements on major global issues could overshadow areas of agreement, even if leaders manage to avoid public disputes. Disputes over foreign policy matters such as the US missile shield in central Europe and the push for Kosovo's independence have caused tension between the United States and Russia. However, recent efforts by President Bush to mend relations, including inviting Russian President Putin to his family home in Maine, suggest a desire to reduce conflict. Despite their disagreements, experts believe the two leaders will find ways to move forward. The Europeans understand that changes to US foreign and climate change policy will not happen until a new president takes office, so they prefer to avoid major confrontation. Bush, known for surprising Merkel with a backrub at the 2006 summit in St. Petersburg, still has 1-1/2 years left in office. However, Heiligendamm will be the final G8 summit for Tony Blair and likely Putin, who plans to step down next year. Newcomers to the summit include French President Nicolas Sarkozy and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The informal meetings of the world's top industrial powers began in 1975 with the G6 before Canada joined in 1976 and Russia in 1998. These meetings were initially convened in Rambouillet, France to coordinate economic policy in response to a global oil crisis and the collapse of the Bretton Woods system of fixed exchange rates. The club, which is responsible for nearly two-thirds of global growth but only represents about one-eighth of the world's population, is now facing accusations of irrelevance and is being pressured to adapt to a shift in the global economic balance. In response to these concerns, Merkel has invited the leaders of Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and South Africa to a meeting this year. The landscape has changed significantly since world leaders first gathered three decades ago, with events such as the Sept. 11 attacks, clashes between protesters and police at a 2001 summit in Genoa, and bombings in London during the 2005 summit altering the dynamics of these gatherings. German police had confrontations with hundreds of protesters on Saturday in Rostock, who were causing chaos by setting fire to cars, throwing bottles, and lighting bins on fire. This violence followed a larger peaceful demonstration. A total of 16,000 German security personnel will be working during the three-day meeting, with leaders being protected by a 12-kilometre fence from tens of thousands of demonstrators. | 1 |
Negotiators reconvened at the World Trade Organisation (WTO) on Thursday to address the remaining challenges in reaching an agreement in agriculture, a key component of the Doha free trade round. The landscape for the negotiations has shifted significantly since the round began in 2001, with record food prices alleviating the pressure on governments to provide subsidies to farmers and concerns about food security prompting some countries to reduce import tariffs. Furthermore, growing protectionism in wealthy nations is complicating efforts to reach a comprehensive agreement among the WTO's 151 member states. The nine-day talks, led by New Zealand's WTO ambassador Crawford Falconer, will focus on technical issues such as how to classify and handle sensitive products that countries wish to protect from tariff reductions. Diplomats have decided to leave the major headline figures, such as the extent of reductions in farm subsidies and tariffs, to be resolved by senior politicians at the end of the negotiations. One negotiator from a wealthy country stated, "That's ministerial work. We lay the groundwork and bring it as far as possible for the ministers to finalize." Special attention is being paid to agriculture in the Doha process as it is crucial for the development of developing countries, who are expected to benefit the most from the negotiations. Developing nations are calling for wealthy countries to reduce farm tariffs and subsidies while also opening their markets to industrial goods and services. A key issue in the Geneva talks is the treatment of "special products" in agriculture, with no agreement yet on how many can be designated or how they will be treated. The G-33, a group of 45 developing countries, insists that any deal must allow them to completely exempt some special products from tariff cuts, but this is being resisted by developing food exporters such as Brazil, Argentina, and Thailand, who are aligning with wealthy nations. Falconer is optimistic that the discussions happening this week and next will help to bridge the gaps enough for him to create a revised version of the negotiating document he originally made in July. Trade negotiators anticipate that the talks, involving thirty-six important delegations, will address various agriculture negotiations, starting with domestic support this week, then moving on to market access next week, and concluding with export competition. This will include topics such as food aid, export credits, and the sensitive issue of cotton. Falconer will update all members of the WTO on the progress of the talks next Friday. Before the holidays, Falconer distributed documents summarizing the past four months of discussions. They established a timetable for wealthy nations to reduce subsidies and suggested that new members of the WTO may be exempt from these reductions. | 1 |
Johnson, in an effort to minimize any disruptions caused by the cabinet reshuffle, swiftly appointed Rishi Sunak, the deputy of Javid and a staunch supporter of the prime minister, to take over. The reshuffle was carefully planned by the prime minister's team, framed as an opportunity to nurture new talent, especially women, and reward loyal supporters in order to advance his vision for post-Brexit Britain. However, Javid's resignation as finance minister, which some believe may have been encouraged by Johnson's team, following a disagreement over Javid's advisors, suggests that the prime minister does not tolerate dissent within his government. A source close to Javid revealed that he declined the position of Chancellor of the Exchequer after Johnson demanded he dismiss his advisors and replace them with individuals from the prime minister's office at Downing Street. The Chancellor stated that no minister with self-respect would agree to those terms. Sunak, who has a background at Goldman Sachs and is married to the daughter of an Indian billionaire, is viewed by many Conservatives as a reliable choice who will support Johnson's plans for a post-Brexit UK. The appointment of Sunak has led to an increase in the value of the pound as investors anticipate a more expansive budget in the upcoming month. Johnson aims to reduce the wealth and opportunity gap in different regions of the country by focusing on investment in northern and central England, where he gained support from traditional Labour Party voters. Johnson was not expected to make major changes in his government, opting to keep disruption to a minimum. However, even the minor changes in the lower levels of government provided some insight into his desire to strengthen his control over power. His dismissal of Northern Ireland minister Julian Smith, who had recently played a role in restoring a government in the British province, received criticism from politicians on both sides of the Irish border. Smith, who had previously overseen parliamentary discipline for Johnson's predecessor Theresa May, was the first minister to be removed in the reshuffle. He was accompanied by business minister Andrea Leadsom and environment minister Theresa Villiers. Alok Sharma, a former minister for international development known for his loyalty, was appointed as the new business minister and also tasked with leading the COP26 climate change summit in Scotland in November, which is expected to be attended by world leaders. Javid's decision to resign caused a significant disruption to Johnson's plans for maintaining the status quo. Despite initial efforts to downplay the possibility of major changes, Johnson's office indicated a desire for a reshuffle to lay the groundwork for both current and future government operations, with a focus on promoting new talent, especially women. Johnson's emphasis on loyalty was seen as crucial for implementing his agenda and fulfilling election promises. However, critics from opposing parties criticized the reshuffle as chaotic. John McDonnell, the finance spokesman for the main opposition Labour Party, described it as a historical record, pointing out that the government was in chaos just weeks after an election. | 1 |
In Bonn, Germany, a small mention in a massive UN scientific report about the need for deeper cuts in greenhouse gases by developed nations has become a major obstacle in reaching a new UN climate treaty. Developing nations at UN talks in Bonn are pushing for emissions cuts of 25 to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, which they see as crucial for a successful agreement in Copenhagen in December. However, many developed nations argue that such reductions would harm their economies. Yvo de Boer, head of the UN Climate Change Secretariat, described the 25 to 40 percent range as a guiding principle for measuring the success of the Copenhagen talks. The range of 25-40 was derived from a few studies and was not included in the "summary for policymakers" of the IPCC report, which involved 2,500 experts. Shyam Saran, special climate envoy to Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, noted that little progress has been made on setting targets during the Bonn talks. Developing nations like China and India believe that wealthy countries should aim for emissions cuts of at least 40 percent, citing worsening evidence of global warming since 2007. Additionally, small island states, facing the threat of rising sea levels, argue that rich nations should cut emissions by at least 45 percent below 1990 levels. Saran indicated that achieving a forty percent reduction by 2020 is a reasonable goal if the issue is as significant as believed. De Boer clarified that this percentage is not an agreed upon target, but rather a scenario to prevent the worst effects of global warming. Many developed countries, including the United States under President Barack Obama, believe this goal is unattainable. Obama aims to reduce U.S. emissions to 1990 levels by 2020, a 14 percent decrease from 2007 levels, and by 80 percent below by 2050. Japan recently set a 2020 target of just 8 percent below 1990 levels. Bill Hare from the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research stated that achieving a 25 percent reduction is still possible but will be challenging. He stated that recent scientific discoveries had supported the range. The omission of the 25-40 percent from the summary was due more to technical issues than doubts about its accuracy. The 25 to 40 percent became widely known in political circles after being referenced on page 776 and other findings were included as a footnote to a document starting discussions on a new treaty at a meeting of over 190 nations in Bali in 2007. Currently, wealthy nations have proposed cuts ranging from 8 to 14 percent below 1990 levels by 2020, according to Hare. The European Union has offered cuts of 20 percent, or 30 percent if other developed nations also participate. And on page 776, it is stated that developing countries need to make a significant change by 2020 in order to slow down the increase in their emissions compared to the usual business practices. This decision divides wealthy and poorer nations into two distinct groups rather than implementing a graduated system of reductions with the wealthiest nations making the most significant cuts. Alden Meyer from the Union of Concerned Scientists mentioned that both sides believe they are being asked to do too much. It is uncertain how this impasse will be resolved. The wealthy countries may offer greater reductions or the poorer countries may compromise, potentially in exchange for clean technologies and increased aid. Hare mentioned that Russia, a major country that has not yet established a greenhouse gas target, could have a significant impact as its emissions are already approximately 30 percent lower than 1990 levels since the Soviet Union's collapse. Setting a 2020 goal for Russia to maintain current emission levels would further reduce overall promised cuts to between 12 and 18 percent. However, some countries argue that emissions reductions do not necessarily have to fall within this range, especially if future reductions are more substantial. Jonathan Pershing, leader of the US delegation in Bonn and an author for the IPCC chapter that included the 25-40 percent range, mentioned during a recent briefing that there are other potential trends to consider. | 1 |
However, there is still a significant amount of information that remains unknown. Researchers, doctors, policymakers, and economists are all working to answer key questions about the new coronavirus as it continues to spread globally. One of the main questions being investigated is the level of contagiousness of the virus. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus is spread through small droplets from the nose or mouth via coughing or sneezing. It can also survive on surfaces for several days, meaning that in addition to airborne transmission, people can become infected by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their face. There is also some speculation about the potential for transmission through fecal matter, but this has not been confirmed. How many people have been infected and are asymptomatic? Over 550,000 cases have been reported globally, with over 127,000 recoveries and more than 24,000 deaths. Some experts believe that as many as 80% of those infected display mild or no symptoms, potentially leading to millions of unreported cases. However, further research and testing are necessary to determine a more precise figure. Are younger individuals at a lower risk of dying from the virus? Although younger people are less susceptible, they can still contract COVID-19 and require hospitalization. The extent of their safety is still uncertain. The World Health Organization suggests that older individuals with pre-existing conditions tend to experience more severe illness, while a US health official noted a higher mortality rate in males compared to females in all age groups. Health experts have warned that individuals with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems are at a higher risk. Can individuals become infected again? This is an important question that remains unanswered. While there have been some cases of potential "reinfection" in recovered patients, most scientists think these are more likely to be relapses. Even though a patient may feel better and test negative for the virus in their nose and throat, the virus could still be present in other parts of their body. Fully recovered patients have antibodies in their blood that are expected to provide protection against new infections, but the duration of this protection is still unknown. Some viruses cause antibodies to disappear more quickly, and even if they remain, SARS-CoV-2 could change slightly over time like the flu virus does, making antibodies ineffective. Many academic labs and medical companies are working on blood tests to identify those who have been infected and if some have gained immunity. These tests will also help to understand the true scale of the pandemic. It is uncertain when treatments or a vaccine will be available. As of now, there are no vaccines or antiviral medications tailored to the novel coronavirus. Current treatment primarily aims to alleviate symptoms, including providing respiratory support. Pharmaceutical companies globally are working diligently to create vaccines, with some already initiating early safety trials in humans. However, experts caution that it may take a year or longer to develop and thoroughly test a vaccine. An additional challenge is that viruses have the ability to mutate rapidly. Several scientists have noticed slight variations in the virus since it first appeared in Wuhan, China, in December as SARS-CoV-2. However, recent research indicates that the virus is fairly stable, indicating that vaccines should remain effective once they are developed. Some experts had speculated that the virus may spread more slowly in warmer climates, with hopes that the arrival of summer would naturally slow its spread. The European Centre for Disease Control stated that the virus is unlikely to decrease its spread. The World Health Organization also mentioned that the virus can be transmitted in various climates. The duration of the pandemic is uncertain and will depend on factors such as people's adherence to isolation measures and the availability of effective treatments or vaccines. President Donald Trump recently expressed his desire to "reopen" the U.S. economy by Easter Sunday on April 12, a move that has been met with concerns about the potential consequences of rushing the process. In Hubei province, where the coronavirus outbreak originated, life has slowly begun to return to normal after a two-month lockdown. However, there is uncertainty about whether this return to normalcy will trigger a new outbreak. It is still unknown whether the severity of illness from the virus is determined by the amount of exposure. Viruses invade the body and infect cells, using them as factories to replicate themselves in large numbers, meaning the initial amount of virus particles entering the body does not significantly impact the overall virus levels. However, repeated exposure does increase the likelihood of the virus entering the body. The International Monetary Fund predicts that the pandemic will lead to a global recession in 2020, potentially worse than the 2008 financial crisis. The severity and duration of the recession, as well as the type of recovery, are subjects of ongoing discussion. Economists believe that the impact of the lockdowns will largely depend on their duration and the extent of government support provided to individuals, businesses, and markets during the crisis. Central bank actions have aimed to keep financial markets functioning, which in turn supports the real economy by facilitating short-term cash flow for companies and funding for public projects. Government initiatives, like the $2 trillion US stimulus package, are expected to inject cash into the economy and provide additional support to small businesses and corporations. However, the effectiveness of these measures is still uncertain and it remains to be seen if they will be sufficient. Is now a favorable moment for investment? Some investors and bank strategists are considering the possibility of re-entering the global stock markets, which have dropped around 25% from their peak in February. Hedge fund manager Bill Ackman recently expressed a more positive outlook on stocks and credit, stating that he is reinvesting in companies he believes in at discounted prices that can weather the current crisis. However, due to the numerous uncertainties, a significant number of analysts and investors are hesitant to predict when the market will hit bottom. | 1 |
Chief adviser Fakhruddin Ahmed has asked G8 leaders to assist least developed countries in overcoming trade barriers in developed markets, specifically requesting market access for LDC products without discrimination. Foreign adviser Iftekhar Ahmed Chowdhury stated that Fakhruddin had sent individual letters to the heads of the G8 nations on behalf of the WTO LDCs Consultative Group, which Bangladesh chairs, advocating for equal market access benefits for all products from LDCs. | 1 |
In Geneva at the second Universal Periodic Review of member states held by the Human Rights Council, she defended Bangladesh's human rights record, as stated in a Ministry of Foreign Affairs media release. Moni emphasized her government's focus on educating agencies about their human rights responsibilities while on duty. She answered questions for three and a half hours from various countries regarding Bangladesh's recent advancements and challenges in human rights. She highlighted the importance of upholding the rule of law in all aspects of society and protecting the rights of vulnerable and marginalized groups. The minister reiterated the government's commitment to zero tolerance towards attacks on minorities, such as those that occurred in Ramu, Cox's Bazar, and against Hindu communities during recent political unrest. This marked the first time Bangladesh took part in the review with a delegation including prominent figures from religious and ethnic minority groups. The session saw 98 countries speaking and praising Bangladesh's progress in ensuring citizens' civil, political, economic, and social rights. The minister presented the government's efforts to enhance human rights and mentioned the significant changes made since the previous review in 2009. She discussed legislative and policy initiatives taken to improve human rights in the country. During the question-answer session, there was notable interest in Bangladesh's achievements in combating poverty, reducing child mortality, ensuring food security, addressing climate change impacts, and promoting the well-being of migrants and the rights of persons with disabilities. She appealed for international support in strengthening Bangladesh's democratic, secular, inclusive, and pluralistic socio-political environment. The Universal Periodic Review is a process where all UN member states' human rights records are assessed, with Bangladesh submitting its report in January. The National Human Rights Commission and civil society groups also presented reports for the review process. The review allows each state to outline the actions taken to enhance human rights and fulfill their obligations in this regard. | 1 |
In his series "9/12," Dan Taberski presents a unique and thought-provoking look at the events of September 11th. The show follows a group of reality show contestants on an 18th century-themed voyage just before the attacks, highlighting their initial disconnect from the tragedy. With a powerful score by Daniel Herskedal, Taberski explores lesser-known stories from the post-9/11 era to challenge common perceptions of the time. In contrast, Ian Coss' series "Forever Is a Long Time" delves into the complexities of long-term commitment in a deeply personal way. Motivated by concerns about the strength of his own marriage, he conducted interviews with divorced relatives and their former partners to understand the reasons behind their breakups. Each episode of his series depicts a different love story in its entirety, with the host gathering evidence and insights like a determined investigator. The revelations he uncovers are woven into original songs inspired by the couples, subtly reflecting the enigmatic nature of human relationships. "La Brega," which translates to "the hustle" or "the struggle," serves as a common thread throughout this collection of stories and tribute to Puerto Rico. Presented in both English and Spanish by a group of Puerto Rican journalists and led by Alana Casanova-Burgess, each episode of "La Brega" effectively transports listeners to a specific location. Rich and overlooked stories from American history can be found in the tales of pothole fillers, activists, and basketball heroes who face their own struggles, many of which can be traced back to the concept of a self-governing territory in the United States. "The Midnight Miracle" is a celebrity podcast hosted by Dave Chappelle, Yasiin Bey, and Talib Kweli, featuring a rotating cast of guests like David Letterman, Chris Rock, and Jon Stewart who engage in candid discussions on art, philosophy, and politics. The show's inventive sound design creates a dynamic and immersive listening experience, akin to being at the world's most fascinating dinner party. "One Year: 1977," hosted by Josh Levin, delves into a year in American history by examining its iconic figures, trends, and controversies with a meticulous and comprehensive approach. Just like any well-written history, the most chilling moments, such as a deadly trend involving a fake cancer treatment among celebrities and science doubters, still hold relevance today. Julie Salamon's podcast adaptation of her book "The Devil's Candy" delves into forgotten tape recordings to bring to life the doomed production of Brian De Palma's "The Bonfire of the Vanities." The interviews with De Palma, Tom Hanks, Bruce Willis, and others showcase the effort to blend high art with commercial success. "Resistance," which emerged after the global Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, focuses on smaller-scale revolutions. Saidu Tejan-Thomas Jr., along with producer-reporters Salifu Sesay Mack, Bethel Habte, and Aaron Randle, uncover compelling stories that delve into the struggles that push individuals outside their everyday routines. The podcast "Rough Translation: Home/Front" by Gregory Warner focuses on the "Civ-Mil divide" between civilians and the military, shedding light on acts of compassion and sacrifice on both sides. Quil Lawrence, NPR's veterans correspondent, introduces readers to characters such as Alicia and Matt Lammers, whose marriage faces challenges due to trauma, and Marla Ruzicka, an aid worker who influenced how the Pentagon deals with civilian casualties. Dan Pashman, the host of "The Sporkful," has spent years trying to create the perfect pasta shape, a task most people would not even think to attempt. His journey to design and manufacture this shape is chronicled in a captivating audio series reminiscent of popular podcasts like "Radiolab," "StartUp," and "Planet Money." The emotional ups and downs Pashman experiences are relatable to anyone who has tried to achieve success in any field. Natalia Petrzela's exploration of the rise and fall of Chippendales, the famous male strip show of the '80s, goes beyond the sensational topics of sex, true crime, and hidden history. The show stands out for its compelling mood, characters, and storyline. The tale of the troupe's founder, Steve Banerjee, is quite extraordinary. His journey from immigrant small-business owner to successful figure in the sex industry, and eventually a criminal, is a quintessential American story. Adapted from a 2021 article by The New York Times Company. | 1 |
Obama's visit to India is an attempt to strengthen the country's strategic partnership and build a friendship with Prime Minister Modi, who was previously not welcome in Washington. Obama will be the first US president to attend India's Republic Day parade, a display of military strength once associated with Cold War anti-Americanism. He will also appear on a radio show with Modi. This visit marks a turnaround in the relationship between the two largest democracies, which was strained just a year ago. Obama expressed optimism about India and America becoming true global partners in an interview with India Today. Modi welcomed Obama and his wife, Michelle, at the airport in New Delhi as they arrived on Air Force One. The two leaders embraced warmly instead of following protocol, which usually requires the prime minister to meet foreign leaders at a formal ceremony at the presidential palace. Modi's decision to break from tradition surprised many, including his own staff. As Obama's motorcade traveled to the welcome ceremony at President Pranab Mukherjee's residence, the streets were heavily guarded by armed police and soldiers as part of a well-planned security operation. Reports indicate that up to 40,000 security personnel will be on duty during the visit, with an additional 15,000 closed-circuit surveillance cameras installed in the capital. The two parties have been negotiating agreements on climate change, taxation, and defense cooperation in preparation for the upcoming visit. Discussions on a potential civil nuclear trade deal went down to the last minute with no clear resolution. The United States sees India as a valuable market and potential counterbalance to China in Asia, but is often frustrated by the slow progress of economic reforms and India's reluctance to align with the US on global issues. India is interested in a new approach from the US towards Pakistan, particularly in terms of security, and hopes for a better understanding with the US on regional matters, according to India's Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Modi, who was elected last May, has brought new life to the economy and foreign relations, much to the satisfaction of Washington. He has also started to counter China's increasing influence in South Asia. The current annual bilateral trade of $100 billion is considered to be far below its potential, and the US hopes it will increase by five times. Due to the passing of King Abdullah, Obama will be leaving India earlier than planned to visit Saudi Arabia instead of going to the Taj Mahal. Both Obama and Modi came from humble beginnings and made their way into the political elite, which is typically dominated by influential families. Their bond was strengthened during a visit to Washington in September when Obama took Modi to the memorial of Martin Luther King, who was inspired by India's Mahatma Gandhi in his fight for civil rights. The relationship between Modi and Obama is noteworthy due to their differing political ideologies, Modi's past controversies, and Obama's close friendship with Modi's predecessor. Despite personal chemistry, tensions between the US and India arose during Obama's presidency, leading to diplomatic issues. According to Ashley Tellis, there is still work to be done to solidify a strong geopolitical relationship between the two countries. Efforts are being made to revisit the 2009 nuclear deal, which did not meet expectations for US companies. Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes stated to reporters this week that there is remarkable possibility in this relationship. Rhodes emphasized the goal of transforming this potential into tangible advantages for both populations. | 1 |
Ugandan authorities discovered an unexploded suicide belt and made multiple arrests following the deaths of 74 soccer fans in two bomb attacks during the World Cup final. Al Qaeda-affiliated Somali Islamists claimed responsibility for the attacks. Uganda's opposition has called for the withdrawal of peacekeepers from Somalia. A government spokesperson announced that the unexploded suicide belt was found in a third location in Kampala, following the explosions at two bars on Sunday. Arrests were made after the discovery of the belt in the Makindye area. He did not provide details on the number or origin of the people who were arrested. Coordinated attacks, a common tactic of al Qaeda and groups associated with Osama bin Laden's network, have been observed. The al Shabaab militants have threatened additional attacks unless Uganda and Burundi remove their peacekeepers from the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia (AMISOM). The opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party in Uganda has called on President Yoweri Museveni to withdraw troops, stating that there is no peace to maintain in Somalia and Uganda lacks strategic interest in the region. FDC spokesman Wafula Oguttu expressed concern that children are being sacrificed for no reason, stating that their goal is to remove troops once in power. AMISOM stated that the explosions would not impact their mission in Somalia, where they protect the presidential palace and key locations. The FBI is investigating the coordinated blasts, marking the first time al Shabaab has extended its violent agenda internationally. Analysts warn that the group's threats should be taken seriously, as they have demonstrated the capability and willingness to launch attacks abroad. Foreign direct investment has increased in East Africa's third largest economy due to oil exploration near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Analysts believe that a sustained bombing campaign could harm Uganda's investment climate, but a one-time attack is unlikely to deter major companies like British hydrocarbons explorer Tullow Oil from investing. An American was killed in the attack, and the United States has offered to help with investigations by sending three FBI agents to collect evidence on the ground. Another FBI team is ready to deploy to the East African nation if needed. Opolot stated that there were no indications of the African Union summit, which was scheduled to be held in Uganda this month, being cancelled due to the bombings. | 1 |
Australia's newly elected prime minister has made signing the Kyoto Protocol a top priority, according to his deputy Julia Gillard. Kevin Rudd is set to quickly fulfill his campaign promise to sign the climate change pact, which would allow Australia to have a more significant role at an upcoming international meeting on environmental issues in Bali, Indonesia. This move would also leave the US as the only Western country not to ratify the pact, despite being the world's largest emitter of carbon dioxide, with Australia being the worst polluter per capita. Rudd's proposal to gradually remove Australia's 550 combat troops from Iraq may strain Australia's close relationship with the US. He received well-wishes from foreign leaders, including a phone call from US President George Bush, and plans to visit Washington next year. Rudd continued meetings with officials on Monday to prepare for assuming power after winning the recent elections. He will meet with newly elected Labor party members on Thursday to select his ministerial team, which is expected to be sworn in by Governor-General Michael Jefferey shortly after. The government is currently in caretaker mode. Rudd, who ended almost 12 years of conservative rule, has begun working on revising the country's labor laws as promised during his campaign. Uncertainty surrounds the leadership of the coalition that lost the election and is now the new opposition. Outgoing prime minister John Howard may lose his seat in parliament, and deputy Peter Costello unexpectedly announced that he does not want the job. Former environment minister Malcolm Turnbull and former health minister Tony Abbott have both expressed interest in becoming opposition leader. The process of counting ballots was still ongoing on Monday, with only the extent of Rudd's decisive victory to be confirmed and a few closely contested districts still to be determined. One of these districts is Bennelong in Sydney, which has been held by Howard for 33 years. This leaves Australia's second-longest serving leader in the position of possibly losing not just the government but also his seat in parliament. Howard admitted on Saturday that it is highly likely he will no longer represent Bennelong. Labor's Maxine McKew, a former television personality, is slightly ahead of Howard and the final outcome is expected to be determined by postal votes. | 1 |
Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras surprised creditors by announcing a referendum on austerity cuts in an aid package. He later went on television to declare capital controls to prevent bank collapse. This comes after a turbulent weekend for Greece, putting the country at risk of defaulting on IMF loans and potentially leaving the eurozone. French President Hollande urged Tsipras to return to negotiations, while German Chancellor Merkel expressed willingness to speak with him. Time is running out to reach a solution as Greece's bailout program is set to expire soon. Greeks, who are accustomed to prolonged negotiations with creditors before reaching a last-minute agreement, were shocked by the situation. An Athens resident, Evgenia Gekou, expressed disbelief and hoped that everything would be resolved soon. European officials were unclear about their future actions, adding to the uncertainty. A representative from the European Commission stated on French radio that Brussels would not be presenting any new proposals on Monday, which seemed to contradict previous statements made by EU Economics Commissioner Pierre Moscovici. Moscovici had mentioned that a new offer was on the way and that a deal was close. This caused European bank shares to drop significantly on Monday, with top banks in Spain, France, and Germany experiencing a decline of more than 6 percent. There were concerns among investors about the possibility of the crisis spreading to banks in other peripheral euro zone countries. In response to the situation, the Greek government decided to keep banks closed at least until after July 5, the day of the referendum. When the automated teller machines reopened at midday, withdrawals were limited to 60 euros a day. The stock exchange will remain closed as Greece's European partners have placed responsibility for the crisis on Tsipras. Creditors have demanded pension cuts and tax increases, which Tsipras has opposed, fearing it would worsen the economic crisis in a country with high unemployment rates. Emergency measures were announced by Tsipras on Sunday, leading to long queues at ATMs and petrol stations as people hurried to withdraw cash. On Monday, lines at ATMs continued with over a dozen people waiting. Plumber Yannis Kalaizakis, 58, mentioned that he had five euros in his pocket and decided to try his luck for some money at an empty cash machine in central Athens on Monday. He expressed frustration about the long queues in his neighborhood the day before, calling the situation a mess. Newspapers featured images of the long lines outside cash machines on their front pages. The Nafetemporiki daily's headline for Monday's paper was "Dramatic hours", while Ta Nea daily simply asked "When will the banks open". The conservative-leaning Eleftheros Typos newspaper criticized Tsipras for calling a referendum as a ploy to trigger early elections, accusing him of planning a euro exit in advance. According to the editorial, Tsipras has lost the trust of the citizens, as shown by the long queues at ATMs and petrol stations, and this will be evident in the upcoming Sunday's vote. As rumors spread, numerous elderly individuals lined up outside two National Bank of Greece offices on Monday hoping to withdraw their pensions, but were ultimately denied, according to Reuters photographers. One shop owner, collecting his wife's pension, expressed frustration at the unexpected turn of events. Despite the financial turmoil, some aspects of daily life continued as usual, with businesses operating and people gathering at cafes and restaurants to discuss their country's future. Tourists maintained their routine of watching the changing of the presidential guard outside parliament. A rally organized by Tsipras's Syriza party to protest austerity measures and encourage voters to vote "No" in the bailout referendum is expected to take place later on Monday. Officials in Europe and the United States have been busy making calls and arranging meetings in an attempt to resolve the situation. U.S. President Barack Obama contacted Merkel, and senior U.S. officials such as Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, who spoke to Tsipras, have urged Europe and the IMF to develop a plan to maintain the unity of the euro and keep Greece in the euro zone. Administrative Reforms Minister George Katrougalos stated on Antenna television that the Greek banks are not receiving the necessary liquidity, accusing Europe of trying to intimidate them. He also warned that a "yes" vote would result in pension cuts and the need to pay for medical care in public hospitals. When your children are unable to attend school, you will express gratitude while they may respond by saying that it was your decision. However, if you refuse, you have the power to advocate for a brighter tomorrow. | 1 |
The Democrats are in a good position to increase their Senate majority in the upcoming elections, giving them more influence regardless of who becomes the next President. Due to Republican retirements, scandals, and the Iraq war, Democrats have a chance to gain up to nine seats in the 100-member Senate in the November 2008 elections. This would give them the crucial 60 seats needed to overcome Republican procedural obstacles and make changes to President Bush's Iraq war policies, including troop withdrawal plans. The last time Democrats had a significant majority in the Senate was during the 1977-1979 congressional session when they held 61 seats. Jennifer Duffy, who monitors Senate races for the nonpartisan Cook Political Report, believes that reaching 60 seats is a possibility. She stated that for things to go in their favor, everything would need to go perfectly. It is currently too soon to make any definite predictions. The upcoming elections are causing many Republicans to distance themselves from Bush, who has a low approval rating. Despite this, they are still associated with his unpopular decisions regarding the Iraq war. There is worry about what lies ahead, especially since Senate Democrats have raised more funds for their campaigns than Republicans. A senior Senate Republican aide is anticipating a loss of seats due to the unfavorable political climate. Currently, Republicans hold 22 of the 34 Senate seats up for re-election next year, while Democrats have 12. All Democratic incumbents plan to seek re-election and are expected to win, while five Republican incumbents have already declared they will not run in 2008. Last week, Senators Pete Domenici of New Mexico and Larry Craig of Idaho, along with fellow Republicans John Warner of Virginia, Chuck Hagel of Nebraska, and Wayne Allard of Colorado, announced they will not be seeking re-election. Domenici, 75, cited declining health as his reason, while Craig, 62, mentioned his disputed conviction in an undercover sex-sting operation in an airport men's room. The scandal surrounding Craig's conviction has brought embarrassment to the Republican party, which prides itself on conservative family values. Additionally, the party has been dealing with a political corruption investigation in Alaska that involves Senator Ted Stevens, the longest serving Republican senator in history. Stevens, who has been in the Senate since 1968, has denied any misconduct. However, the investigation has made the 83-year-old Alaskan more susceptible in the 2008 elections. The Democrats gained control of Congress last year partly due to the Iraq war, and they may be able to strengthen their majorities in the House of Representatives and Senate next year. Despite this, Republicans are optimistic because polls indicate that only one in four Americans approve of the Democratic-led Congress, which has been hindered by partisan conflicts. Rebecca Fisher, a spokesperson for the Democratic Senate campaign committee, stated that Democrats have not yet demonstrated their ability to effectively lead the country, and voters are noticing. She believes that Republicans will regain control of the Senate. Despite this, Democrats are dismissing these claims, pointing out that polls still show that Americans prefer Democrats in Congress. However, many are hesitant to predict their success in the upcoming elections. Duffy from the Cook Political Report stated that Democrats are trying to lower expectations for significant Senate gains because they are concerned it could energize the Republican base. Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid, who previously doubted his party's chances of winning the Senate in 2006, now focuses on maintaining a majority without making predictions for 2008. Similarly, Sen. Charles Schumer of New York, in charge of the Senate Democratic campaign committee, expresses confidence in their chances without disclosing potential seat gains. | 1 |
CEO Farzad Rashidi stated that all 45 of their workers are currently unemployed, with the male employees now working as taxi drivers and the female employees returning to their roles as housewives. Interviews conducted by Reuters with numerous business owners in Iran have revealed that hundreds of companies have halted production and thousands of workers have been laid off due to a challenging business environment primarily caused by new US sanctions. The Iranian rial has experienced significant depreciation and economic activity has significantly slowed down following US President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the nuclear deal with Tehran in May. In August, he implemented sanctions targeting the purchase of US dollars, gold trading, and the automotive industry. Iran's crucial oil and banking industries suffered a blow in November, resulting in a loss of around five billion rials ($120,000 at the official rate) in recent months. As a result, all activities have been suspended until the currency market stabilizes. Rashidi stated that it would be foolish to continue operating in such uncertain conditions. The country has already seen protests this year due to unemployment and high prices, and there are concerns that the economic crisis worsened by sanctions could lead to further unrest. Four days prior to being dismissed by parliament in August for not adequately protecting the job market from sanctions, labor minister Ali Rabiei warned that Iran would lose one million jobs by the end of the year due to US measures. Unemployment is currently at 12.1 percent, leaving three million Iranians jobless. A report from parliament in September cautioned that the increasing unemployment rate could jeopardize the stability of the Islamic Republic. The report indicated that if economic growth remains below 5 percent in the coming years, unemployment could rise to 26 percent. The International Monetary Fund has predicted that Iran's economy will shrink by 1.5 percent this year and 3.6 percent in 2019 because of declining oil revenues. Iran's vice president has expressed concern about the impact of sanctions on the country, highlighting the dangers of unemployment and reduced purchasing power. Eshaq Jahangiri emphasized the importance of job creation as a top priority to prevent productive firms from stagnating due to sanctions. However, business owners are facing challenges such as contradictory monetary policies, fluctuations in the foreign exchange market, rising prices for raw materials, and high-interest loans from banks, making it difficult for them to sustain their operations. As a result, many companies are struggling to pay wages or are being forced to lay off workers. For example, the Jolfakaran Aras Company, one of Iran's largest textile factories, is considering shutting down operations, putting hundreds of jobs at risk. The manager, who requested anonymity, stated that around 200 workers were laid off in August and the situation has worsened since then. There is a strong likelihood that the factory will close down. Ahmad Roosta, CEO of Takplast Nour, expressed optimism that a drought in Iran would benefit his newly established factory, which manufactures plastic pipes for agricultural use. Roosta informed Reuters that he would wait for one or two months, but would be forced to close down if the circumstances did not improve, as the farmers, who are the primary consumers of their products, could not afford them. The Iranian car industry has been impacted by sanctions, leading to the suspension of joint ventures with French and German companies. This has caused more than 300 auto parts makers to halt production, risking tens of thousands of jobs in the sector. The government's changing monetary policies have also contributed to problems in the industry, with the production growth not meeting planned targets. Youth unemployment in Iran is a significant issue, with economic pressures from Washington primarily targeting the government and its proxies, rather than the Iranian people. However, young Iranians are the ones most affected by the high unemployment rates. Maryam, a public relations manager at a food import company, recently lost her job due to a decrease in customers and halted imports. The remaining employees fear the company may shut down after selling off its inventory. In a country where 60 percent of the 80 million population is under 30, youth unemployment is at 25 percent. Official data shows that in some parts of the country, the unemployment rate among young people with higher education is over 50 percent. Armin, 29, who holds a degree in mechanical engineering, lost his job in the housebuilding industry due to the recession caused by the fall of the rial. He stated that the property market is slowing down because high prices have made houses unaffordable, and the situation is deteriorating day by day. Armin shared this information with Reuters from the city of Rasht in northern Iran. Nima, a legal advisor specializing in startups and computer firms, believes that sanctions have impacted many companies in the industry that relied on exports and had plans for regional expansion. He mentioned that even the gaming industry in Iran has been affected by the sanctions, leading to some development teams pausing their work due to limited access to international markets. Saeed Laylaz, an economist based in Tehran, expressed a more optimistic view, attributing youth unemployment to Iran's demographics and government policies, with sanctions exacerbating existing issues. Despite the challenges posed by sanctions and economic uncertainties, Laylaz predicted that the market would eventually stabilize. Laylaz, who recently met with Rouhani along with other economists to provide guidance on economic policies, expressed confidence in overcoming the current round of sanctions, just as they have successfully done in the past. | 1 |
The blimp, which is six meters (20 feet) high, will be flying above Parliament Square for two hours starting at 0900 GMT while Trump is scheduled to meet with British Prime Minister Theresa May in Downing Street. Trump and his wife Melania arrived on Monday for a three-day state visit, which included a banquet at Buckingham Palace. Ajuub Faraji, one of the organizers of the blimp, stated that they are sending a message of solidarity to those affected by Trump's politics and making it clear that he does not deserve special treatment. Later in the day, tens of thousands of protesters are expected to participate in a "Carnival of Resistance" in central London, including environmental activists, anti-racism campaigners, and women's rights protesters. Police will shut down the road outside of Downing Street in order to provide security for the president and his family. In the UK, President Trump's actions such as banning travel from certain Muslim-majority countries, pulling out of a global climate change deal, and criticizing British politicians have fueled opposition to his presidency. Several lawmakers, including Jeremy Corbyn, boycotted a state dinner held in the president's honor, leading to criticism from his supporters who viewed it as disrespectful to Britain's closest ally. Demonstrators have been supported by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has clashed with the president and allowed the flying of a blimp as a form of protest. The president criticized the mayor, calling him a "stone-cold loser," just before he arrived in Britain. He has previously accused the mayor of not doing enough to prevent deadly terror attacks in London. Despite facing protests, Trump claims he is well-liked in Britain. He emphasized his connections to the country, including his mother's Scottish heritage and the two golf courses he owns there. Trump stated in an interview with The Sun that he believes he is closer to Britain than any other American leader before him. I absolutely adore the United Kingdom. The protests are anticipated to escalate later in the day as demonstrators assemble at Trafalgar Square at 10:00 GMT. They will march via Embankment to reach Parliament Square in the afternoon due to the closure of the southern part of Whitehall by the police. Protesters from various regions of Britain will journey to London to participate in the demonstrations. Additionally, other protests against Trump's visit are scheduled in 14 other cities and towns. Trump's most recent visit in July cost police over 14.2 million pounds ($17.95 million), with 10,000 officers being deployed from various parts of Britain. According to Scott Lucas, a professor at the University of Birmingham, past US presidents like Ronald Reagan and George W Bush have also encountered significant protests during their visits to Britain. Lucas noted that protests for American presidents tend to be larger compared to leaders from other countries like China or Saudi Arabia due to the historic alliance between the UK and the US. Lucas emphasized the importance of being able to communicate with friends like the US in a certain manner. Typically, you tend to be more focused on individuals who are part of your household or live nearby, rather than those who are in a different village or town. | 1 |
Kim Yong Chol, vice-chairman of the North Korean ruling Workers' Party's Central Committee, will lead a high-level delegation at the Winter Olympics closing ceremony in Pyeongchang on Sunday. The delegation will also meet with President Moon Jae-in. Kim Yong Chol was previously the head of the Reconnaissance General Bureau, a top North Korean military intelligence agency that South Korea accused of being responsible for the 2010 sinking of the Cheonan. North Korea has denied any involvement in the incident. Despite the controversy, the South Korean Unification Ministry has stated that they are focusing on the potential for peace and improved inter-Korean relations through dialogue with the visiting North Korean officials, rather than dwelling on their past actions or identities. Kim's upcoming visit will coincide with Ivanka Trump's visit to South Korea as well. Ivanka is set to arrive later on Friday to have dinner with Moon and attend the Winter Olympics' closing ceremony. The Blue House has stated that there are no official plans for U.S. and North Korean officials to meet. South Korea's recent decision to allow Kim, who is currently under sanctions from the United States and South Korea, to cross the border has caused backlash from the families of the deceased Cheonan sailors and opposition parties. Members of the main opposition Liberty Korea Party held a protest in front of the Blue House, demanding the government reverse its decision. The party criticized President Moon's acceptance of North Korea's peace efforts, calling it a serious issue and a crime. A group of relatives of the victims of the Cheonan sinking has announced plans to hold a press conference to protest the decision on Saturday. Despite public concerns about Kim's upcoming visit, Baik emphasized that South Korea's position on the Cheonan sinking, which blames North Korea, remains unchanged. Baik also stressed the importance of working towards genuine peace on the Korean peninsula to prevent such provocations in the future. The government is committed to addressing the public's worries through various efforts. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has expressed a desire to enhance reconciliation and dialogue with South Korea following the Winter Olympics, while the United States is pushing for increased pressure on North Korea to abandon its nuclear weapons. Despite facing UN sanctions, North Korea conducted numerous missile launches and its largest nuclear test last year. It has been over two months since the last missile test was conducted in late November. | 1 |
Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh stated that India, now the third largest emitter of carbon after China and the United States, cannot sustain high economic growth while also experiencing a rapid increase in carbon emissions. Ramesh made these remarks during negotiations in Tianjin involving representatives from nearly 200 governments, aimed at determining the next steps after the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012. Despite India's relatively low per-capita emissions, the country's energy demand is on the rise due to an expanding middle class purchasing more cars, TVs, and improved housing, with much of this energy coming from coal, oil, and gas - all major sources of carbon dioxide emissions. Ramesh emphasized that India's pursuit of wealth should not come at the expense of the environment. According to officials, his remarks mark the first time a government minister has acknowledged that India has surpassed Russia as the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Ramesh stated that India will proactively transition to a low-carbon growth trajectory, rather than pursuing high-carbon growth alongside GDP growth of 8-9 percent. He outlined the objective of achieving 8-9 percent growth while maintaining low carbon emissions. Less wealthy countries are currently the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions, and many major developing nations are taking measures to limit the increase of their emissions. However, they are reluctant to agree to absolute reductions, fearing negative impacts on their economies. India managed to weather the global financial crisis better than most countries and aims for almost 10 percent economic growth in the upcoming years, despite currently growing at around 8.5 percent. India is the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases globally, following China and the United States. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy was previously considered politically risky in India due to the associated economic costs. In January, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh requested a panel to begin working on a plan for a more environmentally friendly economy, with the report expected by the end of the year. Despite India's new climate plan emphasizing renewable energy like solar power, coal remains the main source of energy in a country where almost half of the 1.1 billion population lacks electricity. Ramesh noted the significant gap in emissions between the top two and third highest emitters, but stressed the importance of India's contribution. The UN climate talks have faced challenges due to a lack of trust between wealthy and developing nations regarding climate funds, calls for more transparency on emission reduction commitments, and dissatisfaction with the emission cuts offered by wealthy nations. The United Nations has decided to stop encouraging nations to make stronger commitments to reduce carbon emissions due to the significant risk of the talks coming to a standstill. This decision was made out of fear that additional discussions could disrupt the already tense negotiations for a more ambitious climate agreement. | 1 |
President Mohamed Nasheed of the Maldives, who is widely recognized for bringing democracy to the secluded resort islands, stepped down on Tuesday following weeks of opposition protests that escalated into a police mutiny and what his aide described as a coup. Nasheed, the Maldives' first democratically elected leader, transferred authority of the Indian Ocean archipelago to Vice-President Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik, stating that remaining in office would mean resorting to force against the people. In a televised speech, he stated, "I am resigning because I do not want to govern through the use of force," and expressed concern about the potential for foreign influences if the government remained in power. It was not immediately clear which influences he was referring to, but Hassan Saeed, leader of the DQP, a party in the opposition coalition, and an Indian diplomatic source in Colombo stated that Nasheed had asked for help from India and was denied. In 1988, India had helped thwart a coup in the Maldives by sending soldiers to support the government. India's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Syed Akbaruddin, said that the rebellion was an internal issue for the Maldives to resolve. Nasheed won the election in 2008, promising to establish full democracy in the Maldives and advocating strongly for action on climate change and rising sea levels. However, he faced criticism for arresting a judge whom he accused of being influenced by his predecessor, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who had ruled for three decades. Protests following the arrest led to a constitutional crisis, with Nasheed facing allegations of behaving like a dictator. An official from Nasheed's office, speaking anonymously, described the situation as a coup, claiming that the police, supporters of Gayoom, and certain factions within the military had pressured Nasheed to resign. The new president stated that Nasheed was placed under protective police custody for his safety. Saeed of the DQP stated that they will push for Nasheed to be prosecuted for corruption and violating the rule of law, while also offering their full support to the new president. Vandals targeted the lobby of the opposition-affiliated VTV TV station, and mutinying police attacked and set fire to the main gathering place of Nasheed's Maldives Democratic Party before taking control of the state broadcaster MNBC and renaming it TV Maldives. The following day, soldiers used teargas on police and protesters who surrounded the Maldives National Defence Force headquarters in Republic Square. Demonstrators later gathered outside the president's office chanting "Gayoom." Gayoom's opposition Progressive Party of the Maldives accused the military of using rubber bullets on protesters, resulting in numerous injuries according to party spokesman Mohamed Hussain "Mundhu" Shareef. Despite an official close to the president denying the use of rubber bullets, it was confirmed that a group of police officers defied orders and attacked a ruling party facility. The official also mentioned that Gayoom's party had called for the overthrow of the Maldives' first democratically elected government and for citizens to launch jihad against the president. The protests and competition for power before the upcoming presidential election have led political parties to adopt extremist Islamist rhetoric and accuse Nasheed of being anti-Islamic. This situation has highlighted the ongoing rivalry between Gayoom and Nasheed, who was imprisoned for six years and arrested 27 times by Gayoom's government while advocating for democracy. The vice-president is expected to lead a national unity government until the presidential election. Despite these political tensions, the issue has not affected the approximately 900,000 affluent tourists who visit the Maldives annually to enjoy its picturesque islands and beaches. Most tourists are transported directly to their luxurious accommodations, where they can consume alcohol and receive spa treatments, shielded from the realities of everyday life in the Maldives as a strict Islamic state where alcohol is prohibited and revealing attire is disapproved of. Nasheed was well-known for his efforts to raise awareness about the threat of rising sea levels in his country. In 2009, he made headlines by holding a cabinet meeting underwater, with ministers wearing scuba gear. Despite the attention this event received, it is now largely forgotten, with many people instead remembering Nasheed's controversial decision to have a judge arrested. A diplomat in Male pointed out that while the underwater meeting has faded from memory, the arrest of Judge Abdulla Mohamed remains a significant event. In the midst of political turmoil, a Twitter user named Alexander Brown shared his observations of the situation in the Maldives, noting the surreal experience of witnessing a Vogue photo shoot while the government was being overthrown. | 1 |
India's prime minister and US President Barack Obama will meet next week to enhance their relationship, as India becomes more involved in global issues like climate change and trade. Manmohan Singh's three-day state visit, starting on November 23, is seen as a test of Obama's commitment to maintaining the strong relationship that developed under George W. Bush. India is also seen as an important player in promoting stability in a region affected by violence in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and attacks like the ones in Mumbai last year. Singh and Obama will discuss a variety of topics, including reducing carbon emissions, defense contracts, and expediting the civilian nuclear deal signed last year. This visit will be the first state visit of the Obama administration, demonstrating Singh's efforts to strengthen ties with Western nations and move India away from its history of mistrust with Washington. The success of the trip will be determined by whether the two leaders can address any concerns about Washington's commitment to New Delhi in a region where it competes with China and Pakistan, which are both important U.S. foreign policy priorities. According to Walter Andersen of Johns Hopkins University's South Asia Studies center, the relationship between the two countries is good but lacks a significant defining issue like the civilian nuclear deal that characterized the relationship during George Bush's presidency. The visit presents an opportunity for India and the U.S. to introduce new ideas to revitalize their strategic relationship. President Bill Clinton initiated efforts to strengthen ties with modern India after the Cold War, and his successor, Bush, further enhanced relations with the 2008 civilian nuclear deal that ended a longstanding embargo imposed in 1974 following India's nuclear test. Trade between the two countries increased significantly from $5.6 billion in 1990 to around 43 billion in 2008, representing a 675 percent rise. However, Obama's early focus on Pakistan for combating the Taliban and emphasis on relations with China upset some in India, who had hoped to continue building on the progress made during Bush's presidency. While trade, climate change, defense sales, and counter-terrorism efforts between the two countries are positive and may improve further, there is a divergence in strategic priorities. The U.S. strategy for Afghanistan, which includes a focus on Pakistan as a key ally, has been criticized for not adequately addressing the concerns of regional players like India, which is vying with Pakistan for influence in Kabul. India and Pakistan have engaged in three conflicts since gaining independence from Britain in 1947. India is concerned about China's growing influence on the U.S. economy, which it sees as leverage that Beijing holds over Washington. Additionally, India is uneasy about Chinese support for Pakistan. On the other hand, Beijing is worried about the presence of the Dalai Lama in India. Chintamani Mahapatra, a foreign policy professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, explains that India becomes anxious when it perceives President Obama's focus on China and Pakistan. The Obama administration needs to acknowledge India's growing role in the region and address concerns about New Delhi being marginalized. Despite this, Washington recognizes India's economic power, large market, thriving IT industry, military strength, and its potential as a counterbalance to China. Prime Minister Singh will address challenging issues such as the stalled nuclear deal and India's desire for a permanent seat on the U.N. Security Council during discussions with Obama. Consultant Frank Wisner, former U.S. ambassador to India, emphasized the importance of discussing strategy, economics, and global issues during the meeting. If we want to accomplish any of our goals, it is important for us to have the cooperation of India. | 1 |
Britain is encouraging world leaders to attend the UN climate deal meeting in Copenhagen in December to ensure its success. Australian and Indian representatives also discussed ways to reduce their greenhouse gases. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown emphasized the need for leaders to step in and break the negotiation deadlock, stating that he will personally attend the conference and urging others to do the same. Negotiations between industrialized and developing countries on how to distribute emissions reductions have stalled, with only one week of formal talks left before the Copenhagen summit. The UN talks that began in Bali in 2007 are particularly stuck on the issue of carbon cuts for rich countries and financial support for developing countries to combat global warming. Australian Climate Minister Penny Wong announced plans to reintroduce carbon trade legislation, with a vote expected before the end of November. The conservative opposition is calling for changes to the scheme to avoid a defeat that could prompt a snap election. The government, currently leading in opinion polls and potentially benefiting from an election, plans to implement carbon trading starting in July 2011. This initiative aims to put a price on greenhouse gas emissions and help reduce emissions in one of the world's highest per capita polluters. The Australian scheme will apply to 75 percent of Australian emissions from the largest 1,000 companies and will be the second domestic trading platform outside of Europe. Companies will be required to obtain a permit for each tonne of carbon they emit. According to an Indian newspaper, Environment Minister Jairam Ramesh has expressed willingness for New Delhi to accept limitations on the country's increasing carbon emissions, without insisting on new finance and technology from wealthy nations. Ramesh was quoted by The Times of India as writing to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, urging a pragmatic and constructive approach rather than an argumentative and polemical one. In an interview with Reuters on Friday, Ramesh indicated a readiness to compromise in order to secure a deal. Countries like India, China, and other large developing nations are concerned about the potential impacts of climate change, such as severe droughts, floods, rising sea levels, and melting glaciers that supply major rivers. The focus of the London talks at the Major Economies Forum is on how to translate various national policy plans into a comprehensive agreement, with countries accounting for 80 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions in attendance. Asad Rehman, a Climate Campaigner for Friends of the Earth, emphasized the need for wealthy countries in the Major Economies Forum to provide additional funding. Copenhagen is facing a major challenge because the United States, the only developed country not part of the Kyoto Protocol, is unlikely to pass laws to reduce carbon emissions by December. In Cape Town, South Africa expressed concern about the significant increase in emissions expected during next year's soccer World Cup, mainly due to the addition of air travel to the calculations. The Water and Environmental Affairs Minister Buyelwa Sonjica stated that the FIFA 2010 World Cup is projected to have the highest carbon footprint of any large-scale event, despite efforts to make it carbon neutral. | 1 |
Due to a geomagnetic storm caused by a recent solar outburst, 40 out of 49 newly launched Starlink satellites have been disabled and are currently reentering Earth's atmosphere to be burned up. This event underscores the risks that many companies face when launching thousands of small satellites into orbit to provide internet service from space. There is a possibility that future solar outbursts could also damage these orbital transmitters. The sun goes through an 11-year cycle of activity, fluctuating between hyperactive and calm periods. Currently, the sun is increasing in activity and is expected to reach its peak around 2025. Despite being a relatively mild solar event, experts like Hugh Lewis predict that the next cycle will bring more extreme conditions, which could pose a greater threat to satellite constellations like SpaceX's Starlink. SpaceX has already announced the potential loss of 40 satellites due to the recent solar activity. The company explained that the satellites were successfully placed in their planned orbit approximately 130 miles above Earth to avoid future collisions with other satellites. If these satellites experience issues at that altitude and cannot be moved to a safer orbit, they would quickly disintegrate in the atmosphere, which serves as a safety precaution. However, before the satellite launch on Jan 29, a powerful solar eruption occurred, sending energetic particles and magnetism towards Earth, resulting in a geomagnetic storm in Earth's magnetic field around Feb 2. The intense storm increased the kinetic energy of particles in Earth's atmosphere, causing it to expand and become denser. This increased drag on objects moving through the atmosphere, including satellites, causing their orbits to shrink and bringing them closer to the lower atmosphere where they burn up. During a recent Starlink deployment, SpaceX noted that the storm significantly increased atmospheric drag, resulting in a higher number of satellites being pulled down by gravity and perishing. There are currently 1,915 Starlink satellites in orbit, so losing up to 40 is not a significant concern for SpaceX, according to Jonathan McDowell, an astronomer at the Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. However, this loss could amount to around $100 million in hardware costs. The risks of solar outbursts and geomagnetic storms damaging objects in low-Earth orbit are well-documented, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration categorizing storms from minor to extreme. The effects of these storms can include changes in atmospheric drag that may impact satellite orbits. Given these risks, it raises the question of whether SpaceX considered this hazard during the deployment of Starlink satellites. Samantha Lawler, an astronomer at the University of Regina in Canada, expressed her surprise at the situation, stating "I'm just kind of dumbfounded." McDowell also found it unexpected, commenting "It's a bit of a surprise." A SpaceX media representative mentioned that the team was unavailable to answer questions due to a demanding time. Despite the satellites quickly entering the atmosphere, they do not pose a threat to anyone on the ground. Lewis stated that the system functioned correctly in terms of safety, with the satellites de-orbiting without putting anything else at risk. Satellites at higher altitudes can avoid the dangers of atmospheric expansion, but those at lower altitudes are still at risk. This raises concerns about whether SpaceX can safely continue deploying spacecraft at lower altitudes. Lewis explained that as the sun becomes more active, it releases extreme ultraviolet light, which is absorbed into the atmosphere. This will cause the atmosphere to expand significantly, leading to a predicted increase in atmospheric density by one or two orders of magnitude. Many astronomers have expressed concerns about Starlink and other satellite constellations reflecting sunlight and potentially disrupting telescope research on Earth. Some view this incident as representative of SpaceX's approach to issues in low-Earth orbit, with a focus on fixing problems after they occur rather than preventing them beforehand. The destruction of these satellites serves as a tough lesson for SpaceX, according to Lewis. Lawler stated that what occurs next is in their hands, expressing his desire that this situation will help them see things more clearly. | 1 |
UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon stated that negotiators from 190 countries meeting in Bali to discuss climate change have a political and historical responsibility to reach a deal. Ban emphasized the seriousness of not reaching an agreement, noting that it would have very serious consequences. He expressed confidence that all countries, including the United States, were interested in reaching an agreement, despite disagreements over emission reduction guidelines. Ban made these remarks while on a flight from Bali to East Timor's capital Dili. He cautioned countries against focusing solely on emission targets, stating that negotiations would need to happen in the future. Ban expressed his willingness to return to Bali on Saturday if the discussions remained at a standstill. He emphasized the importance of political and historical responsibility for negotiators, ministers, and senior leaders to successfully conclude the talks. Ban stressed that climate change and global warming affect everyone, regardless of their nationality. | 1 |
European Union countries are discussing the extent to which they are prepared to combat climate change, with the possibility of implementing the world's most ambitious plan to reduce global warming. A draft statement, obtained by Reuters, supports a proposal to decrease EU greenhouse gas emissions by a minimum of 20 percent by 2020 compared to levels in 1990. The bloc is also open to reducing emissions by 30 percent by 2020 if other industrialized nations follow suit and economically advanced developing countries also contribute. This stance is expected to guide the EU's stance in future negotiations for a global agreement on emissions reduction post-2012, when the initial period of the Kyoto Protocol ends. However, Hungary and Poland, new EU members since 2004, are against mandating the 20 or 30 percent targets. Finland, Sweden, and Denmark have differing opinions on a unilateral EU target, with Sweden and Denmark advocating for a 30 percent reduction from the beginning. Some states also suggest using a base year other than 1990 for calculating emissions cuts. Germany, as the current holder of the EU presidency, will work to resolve disagreements among ministers to gain unanimous support for the climate change strategy before the bloc's summit in March. The draft proposes that EU states commit to a 30 percent target, contingent on other developed countries making similar reductions and economically advanced developing countries contributing appropriately. The statement emphasizes the need for a 'differentiated approach' in allocating responsibilities among the 27 EU states. The Commission was urged to analyze how the targets would be distributed, emphasizing the importance of fairness and considering each country's circumstances and the Kyoto Protocol's base years. The 15 original EU member states have a joint goal to decrease greenhouse gas emissions by eight percent by 2012 compared to 1990 levels, with individual targets assigned under a burden-sharing agreement. | 1 |
He stated that despite the United States withdrawing from the agreement, other countries remain committed to it. He also mentioned that a majority of US citizens believe that climate change is a significant issue and want their government to take action. The remarks were made during a press briefing at the foreign ministry regarding the upcoming "Dhaka Meeting of the Global Commission on Adaptation." President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement was also discussed, with hopes that the US will rejoin in the future. Marshall Island President Hilda Heine, former UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and World Bank CEO Kristalina Georgieva are set to arrive in Dhaka on Tuesday to attend a meeting inaugurated by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. They will also visit Rohingya refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar to witness the environmental degradation caused by the influx of people from Myanmar. Principal Coordinator Azad stated that they aim to demonstrate to global leaders involved in climate change mitigation efforts the impact on the environment due to the large number of Rohingyas. The President of Marshall Island will arrive early Tuesday, followed by Ban Ki-moon in the afternoon, and they will be welcomed by the foreign minister at Shahjalal International Airport. Hasina is scheduled to have a meeting with the president of the Marshall Islands and the former United Nations chief prior to the start of the conference at the Hotel Intercontinental. | 1 |
According to government data, the output from mines, utilities, and factories increased by only 0.5 percent year-on-year, a significant slowdown from the previous month. Retail inflation also decreased slightly to 7.8 percent in August, aided by lower fuel and clothing prices. While the economy experienced strong growth in the last quarter, high inflation may hinder efforts to stimulate consumer spending. The Reserve Bank of India is unlikely to lower interest rates due to inflation concerns. Despite positive sentiment surrounding India's economic recovery, potential interest rate hikes in the US and structural challenges within India could impact future growth. Prime Minister Modi's promises to boost economic growth and create jobs have attracted foreign investments, but structural reforms are needed to sustain this optimism. In July, there was a 7.4% annual decrease in production, with firms being hesitant to make new investments. Capital goods production also saw a decline of 3.8% compared to the previous year. Rohini Malkani, an analyst at Citi, mentioned that while the pro-business government has improved the investment climate and confidence, more action is needed to return to a period of high growth and low inflation. Photos from Reuters show workers inside a boiler spare parts manufacturing workshop in Kolkata and a steel factory in Jammu. | 1 |
During a ceremony commemorating Rokeya Day on Thursday, Hasina asked for Saima's assistance, recognizing her contributions to global child autism. Saima, born in Dhaka in 1973 and the granddaughter of Bangabandhu, serves on the National Advisory Committee for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders and the World Health Organization's global Expert Advisory Panel on Mental Health. Hasina highlighted the past discrimination faced by parents of autistic or disabled children, noting that mothers were often harassed and women were sometimes divorced by their husbands for giving birth to such children. Saima Wazed has made a significant impact by encouraging parents to openly discuss their autistic or disabled children, rather than hiding them. She is a licensed school psychologist in the United States and has been recognized for her work in autism and children's nervous complications since 2008. In 2014, she received the 'Excellence in Public Health' award from the WHO for her contributions in 11 Southeast Asian countries. Additionally, she was honored with the 'International Champion Award' in 2017 from the New York-based School and Center for Children with Autism. Saima, the daughter of nuclear scientist MA Wazed Miah, has also served as a thematic ambassador for the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF). In 1997, Saima completed her honours degree in psychology at Barry University in the US, followed by a master's in clinical psychology in 2002. Two years later, she obtained a specialist degree in school psychology. While at the university, she conducted a study on the development of Bangladeshi women, which was recognized as the best scientific presentation by the Florida Academy of Science. Saima's achievements also include being named one of the 100 Innovative Women Leaders in Global Mental Health by the Global Mental Health Programs Consortium in 2019. In 2011, she organized the first international conference on autism in Dhaka. Saima played a significant role in the creation of the Neurodevelopment Disability Trust Act 2013 in the country. She serves as the chairperson of the Shuchona Foundation, a organization focused on mental health issues. Additionally, she is a trustee and the vice-chairperson of the Centre for Research and Information (CRI), which is the research wing of the Awami League. | 1 |
Ugandan authorities discovered an unexploded suicide vest and made several arrests following bomb blasts that targeted two bars, resulting in the deaths of 76 soccer fans watching the World Cup final. The Somali al Shabaab group, affiliated with al Qaeda, claimed responsibility for the attacks, but later denied the involvement of suicide bombers. The vest was found in Makindye, a suburb of Kampala, and was similar to evidence found at the other blast sites. Ugandan police stated that the vest was meant to be planted, not worn, and used as an improvised explosive device. The attackers were praised by the group for their actions. A man who claimed to be Yonis, assistant to al Shabaab spokesman Sheikh Ali Mohamud Rage, told Reuters by phone that the presence of planted explosives indicates that there was no suicide bombing involved. Coordinated attacks are a characteristic of al Qaeda and affiliated groups connected to Osama bin Laden's militant network. If it is determined that al Shabaab is responsible, it would mark the first instance of the militants seeking power on an international level. Analysts have raised concerns about potential support or funding from individuals in Uganda or foreign militants within al Shabaab. According to Abdi Samatar, a Somalia expert at the University of Minnesota, whether they are Somalis or foreigners, the impact remains the same. He noted that foreign elements now have a dominant role in the al Shabaab project. Kayihura did not provide additional information on the number or origins of the suspects detained, but he did increase the death toll to 76 from 74. The al Shabaab militants have warned of further attacks unless Uganda and Burundi withdraw their peacekeepers from AMISOM, stating "NO PEACE TO KEEP." They have control over large areas in the southern and central regions of the chaotic country. Despite facing threats, the regional bloc IGAD stated that it will continue to support the government in Somalia, which is backed by Western powers. The executive secretary Mahboud Maalim announced plans to increase peacekeepers in Somalia to over 8,000, with hopes of deploying the additional troops by the second week of August. Last week, IGAD members Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Djibouti expressed their desire for 20,000 troops from the AU and United Nations to be stationed in Somalia. The opposition party in Uganda, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), called on President Yoweri Museveni to withdraw his peacekeepers and stated that they would do so if they won elections in 2011. FDC spokesman Wafula Oguttu told Reuters that there is no peace to maintain in Somalia and Uganda does not have any strategic interest there, resulting in the sacrificing of children for no reason. Analysts believe a continued bombing campaign would harm Uganda's investment climate, but a single attack would likely not deter major companies like Tullow Oil from investing. Foreign direct investment in Uganda has increased due to oil exploration along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. An American was killed in the attack, and the US State Department confirmed three FBI agents were on site collecting evidence. Opolot mentioned that there were extra team members ready to be deployed. He also stated that the African Union summit scheduled to be held in Uganda this month was not expected to be canceled as a result of the bombings. | 1 |
The cabinet approved the name change of the ministry during a meeting on Monday at the Secretariat, which was chaired by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Cabinet Secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam informed the media that the proposal for the name change had been previously submitted. The government decided to include 'Climate Change' in the name after reaching an agreement with neighboring countries. The ministry will now be known as 'Poribesh, Bon o Jolbayu Poribartan' in Bangla and 'Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change' in English. The decision to change the name was made at the 4th meeting of the National Environment Committee on August 6, 2017. After a notification signed by the president of Bangladesh is issued, the new name will become effective. Bangladesh is considered one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with global warming posing a significant challenge. Researchers warn that if global warming continues, a substantial amount of land could be submerged by water, potentially displacing around 2 billion people worldwide. Since assuming office in 2009, the Awami League government has established two distinct funds to address climate change issues. The names of the funds are Bangladesh Climate Change Trust (BCCT) and Bangladesh Climate Change Resilience Fund (BCCRF). | 1 |
A spokeswoman from the State Department confirmed that Rank has left his position, but stated that she could not confirm reports on Twitter claiming that he resigned because he was unable to formally notify China of the US decision to withdraw from the agreement. "He has retired from the foreign service," said Anna Richey-Allen, the spokesperson for the department's East Asia Bureau. "Mr. Rank made a personal decision and we thank him for his years of service." Iowa Governor Terry Branstad, who has been chosen by President Trump as the next US ambassador to Beijing, is expected to assume the role later this month. A tweet by China expert John Pomfret reported that an unnamed source stated that Rank had resigned because he could not support Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris agreement. Another tweet by Pomfret mentioned that Rank held a town hall meeting to inform embassy staff of his decision and explain that he could not deliver a diplomatic note to the Chinese government. A senior US official confirmed the tweets' account but also mentioned that Rank was instructed by the State Department to leave his post immediately after announcing his retirement in Beijing. The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, also stated that the US State Department accepted the resignation of its top personnel officer, who was one of the last senior political appointees from the Obama administration. Arnold Chacon, who held positions as the director general of the foreign service and director of human resources, resigned from his post when President Trump took office on January 20, along with all other presidential appointees. The acceptance of his resignation was reported by the DiploPundit website. It is uncertain if Chacon will be offered another position within the department. Currently, aside from Secretary of State Rex Tillerson and a few others, many senior positions at the State Department are either vacant or filled by acting officials. Chacon and Rank, a career foreign service officer who recently became deputy chief of mission in Beijing, were unavailable for comment. As a result, Jonathan Fritz, the embassy's economics councillor, will serve as chargé in Rank's absence. Rank has been with the department for 27 years and previously served as political councillor at the US Embassy in Afghanistan. President Trump's decision to withdraw from the Paris climate accord on Thursday, citing concerns about its impact on the US economy and job market, has sparked criticism from global leaders and industry heads. | 1 |
China has encouraged President Barack Obama to increase the U.S. offer to reduce carbon emissions, but their top climate envoy indicated a willingness to compromise at a U.N. conference in Copenhagen. Xie Zhenhua stated that China aims to play a positive role in the climate talks, emphasizing that a successful outcome relies heavily on an agreement between the United States and China, as they jointly account for 40 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Xie expressed hope that President Obama would make a concrete contribution to the Copenhagen conference, suggesting that it should go beyond the 3 percent cut proposed by Obama for 2020. Additionally, Xie mentioned that China would be willing to accept a target to halve global emissions by 2050 if developed nations increased their emissions reduction targets by 2020 and provided financial assistance to developing countries to combat climate change. We acknowledge the significance of having a long-term goal, but believe that a mid-term goal is more crucial in addressing the immediate issues. The deputy chairman of NDRC expressed interest in discussing an emissions target to reduce global emissions by 50% by 2050, with the hope that developed countries would reduce their emissions by 25-40% below 1990 levels by 2020. Earlier this year, during previous rounds of U.N. talks, China had advocated for a reduction of "at least 40 percent." Xie expressed a preference for a conclusive, legally binding agreement at the Copenhagen meeting, but stated that if this was not achievable, a deadline to finalize a comprehensive treaty by June would be acceptable. He dismissed a U.N. suggestion for expedited funding of $10 billion annually from 2010-2012 as inadequate. | 1 |
In Zanesville, Ohio, on Monday, Republican presidential nominee John McCain tried to distance himself from unpopular President George W. Bush, while Democrat Barack Obama attempted to link them together during a day of intense campaigning. McCain stated on NBC's "Meet the Press" that he has stood up against his party, including President Bush, and has the scars to prove it, despite sharing a common philosophy with the Republican Party. Obama responded to McCain's statement during a speech in Denver by highlighting their similarities with George Bush. Obama addressed a crowd of over 100,000 supporters in a downtown Denver park, vowing not to allow George Bush to pass the torch to John McCain. Despite trailing in the polls, McCain expressed confidence in his campaign, attributing a sense of tightening race just over a week before the Nov. 4 election. McCain also reflected on the 41st anniversary of being shot down in Vietnam and spending years as a prisoner of war, emphasizing his dedication to fighting for the country. Obama and his campaign have consistently tried to link McCain with Bush, pointing out that McCain has supported the president's policies 90 percent of the time. Despite having ample campaign funds, the Obama team released a TV ad showing McCain alongside Bush, claiming that McCain is lacking in new ideas and is disconnected from the people. McCain has stated that he respects Bush but has disagreed with him on various important issues, such as government spending, Iraq strategy, and climate change. McCain believes that the Bush-McCain approach has led the country in the wrong direction for the past eight years and does not want another four years to be the same. Obama declared his intention to run for president of the United States, stating that it was time for change in Washington. He is currently ahead of McCain in national opinion polls and in many battleground states, including Iowa, where a recent poll showed him leading by a significant margin. However, a different poll released on Sunday indicated that the race between Obama and McCain was getting closer overall. In this poll, Obama was ahead of McCain among likely U.S. voters by a smaller margin. The Illinois senator's lead in the poll has decreased over the past three days, dropping from a high of 12 points on Thursday. Some Republicans are concerned about McCain's campaign strategy, which they feel has been inconsistent and could jeopardize the party's chances of retaining the White House and congressional seats. McCain remains optimistic, stating that they have closed the gap in the last week and could potentially be leading on Election Night if the trend continues. He believes there is strong intensity and passion among supporters, making the campaign very competitive, and he is proud of the effort he has put in. McCain expressed strong support for his vice presidential running mate Sarah Palin, despite the criticism she has faced. While she has energized the Republican base, many Americans question her readiness to be president. Initially seen as a positive addition to his campaign, Palin has since been subject to intense scrutiny and some conservatives doubt her experience for the role of vice president. McCain stands by Palin, praising her rather than defending her. McCain praised Palin and defended her actions, stating that she does not need any defense. He addressed questions about the Republican National Committee's purchase of $150,000 in clothes for Palin and her family by explaining that a third of the clothes had been returned and the rest would be donated to charity. McCain also emphasized Palin's frugal lifestyle and commended her for igniting crowds and conducting herself admirably. | 1 |
The battle against climate change in the United States is no longer exclusive to Democrats. In the past, Democrats were known for prioritizing environmental issues and gaining votes from both party supporters and independent voters by emphasizing their strategies to combat global warming. However, this year, Republicans, traditionally associated with President George W. Bush, may also adopt climate change as a key election issue. This shift could help distinguish Republican presidential candidates from the policies of the Bush administration, which have led to the United States being isolated among major developed nations. Former Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman believes that climate change has the potential to garner support beyond party lines. Republicans are in need of assistance following their loss of control in Congress in 2006. Mehlman stated that independents deserted the party, which led to their defeat. He believes that regaining the trust of independents is crucial, and suggests that addressing climate change is a way to do so while staying true to conservative principles. Economic conservatives, who are typically Republicans, see technological advancements as a means to generate economic growth and employment opportunities. Some corporate leaders support a federal limit on carbon emissions to avoid conflicting state laws. Religious conservatives, often aligned with Republicans, view reducing carbon emissions as part of their responsibility to care for the environment. National security conservatives argue that cutting dependence on foreign oil would weaken funding for anti-U.S. entities in the Middle East and elsewhere. This differs from the current administration's stance, as the United States is the only major industrialized country opposing the Kyoto Protocol, which expires in 2012. Bush believes the Kyoto plan would disadvantage the U.S. if countries like China and India were not held to the same standards. Republican Sen. John Warner is leading efforts on Capitol Hill by co-sponsoring a bill to limit carbon dioxide emissions that contribute to climate change. Arizona Sen. John McCain, who is a top contender for the Republican presidential nomination, previously sponsored a climate change bill. There is bipartisan support for these efforts. Former Republican Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, who is now running for president and is also an ordained Baptist minister, has not provided many details on how to combat climate change but believes that humans must take action to address it. In contrast, former Massachusetts Gov. [Name] has a different approach. Mitt Romney emerged as the winner of the Republican primary in Michigan last month, where his father was once governor and the Big Three automakers are located. He criticized McCain's backing of increased fuel efficiency, arguing that it would harm the U.S. auto industry. In California, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger spearheaded an effort to implement stricter emissions standards for vehicles, a move supported by 16 other states. However, obtaining a waiver from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is necessary for this plan, and it has not yet been granted. During a candidates' debate, McCain, Huckabee, and Romney all expressed support for the waiver, although Romney later adjusted his stance. In the race for the presidency, candidates from both major parties have been emphasizing the importance of "change." Democrats Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have shown strong support for cap-and-trade plans to reduce carbon emissions, which is seen as a bipartisan effort to address climate change. While polls suggest that voters prioritize issues like the economy and the war in Iraq over climate change, some argue that environmental concerns are interconnected with other important issues such as national security and the country's energy future. Sandretti stated that it is impossible to tackle global warming without addressing the energy problem, as it impacts every aspect of America's political landscape. | 1 |
US singer Rihanna, climate change activist Greta Thunberg, and US lawyer and activist Meena Harris, who is the niece of Vice-President Kamala Harris, took to social media to highlight the struggles of farmers protesting against reforms for months. The Indian foreign ministry advised that before making comments on such matters, it is important to ensure the facts are verified and to have a thorough understanding of the issues involved. | 1 |
After a nine-month long Liberation War in 1971, Bangladesh emerged victorious and officially declared its independence as a country on the global map. To commemorate this milestone, Bangladesh recently celebrated the golden jubilee of independence and the birth centenary of Bangabandhu with a 10-day program. Author Selina Hossain, Education Minister Dipu Moni, and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam participated in a discussion at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka with the theme "Banglar Mati, Amar Mati" (Bengal's Soil, My Soil). Nepal's President Bidya Devi Bhandari joined Bangladesh's President Md Abdul Hamid and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the festivities, where Selina emphasized Sheikh Mujib's role in establishing the secular Bengali nationalist identity. She mentioned that Bangabandhu insisted on changing the name of East Pakistan to Purbo Bangla in his speech to the assembly on Aug 25, 1955. She quoted from Bangabandhu's speech after being released from a Pakistani jail, where he declared his pride in being Bengali and his love for his nation and language. Shahriar also quoted from Bangabandhu's address on Jun 7, 1972, where he expressed his identity as a Bengali and his connection to the land of Bangla. Despite his absence, his teachings continue to guide us. Dipu Moni expressed that Bangabandhu is a timeless source of inspiration, while Bhandari noted that he has not only captured the affection of Bengalis but is also a highly respected leader in the region. She praised Bangabandhu for his skills as a speaker, organizer, and fighter, which allowed him to win the support of the people and establish a new nation. Hamid urged politicians to unite and prioritize the well-being of the country's most disadvantaged citizens, following Bangabandhu's values of independence and compassion. In celebration of the twin occasions, Hasina urged world leaders to prioritize sustainable development and cautioned that efforts to adapt will not adequately protect the most vulnerable countries unless the current trajectory of climate change is reversed. The program's second session featured a performance by an orchestra, traditional Nepalese dance, and a Jatrapala folk theatre drama titled ‘Ma, Mati O Manush’. Following the drama, 100 folk singers performed in chorus. The President of the Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, and the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Mahinda Rajapaksa, have both traveled to Bangladesh to participate in the festivities. Additionally, the Prime Minister of Bhutan, Lotay Tshering, and the Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, have been invited to attend. | 1 |
In the upcoming local elections in Italy, Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi faces the risk of losing his stronghold in Milan to the left for the first time in twenty years. The fragile state of his centre-right coalition has been highlighted by these elections, with the focus on key battlegrounds in Milan and Naples. Results are expected in the evening after voting began on Monday morning. The government is under pressure to cut the budget deficit by 40 billion euros following a downgrade in Italy's credit rating. A defeat in Milan would be a significant setback for Berlusconi, who is already dealing with various challenges including sex scandals, corruption trials, and a slow economy. Italy has a high public debt, but it has not faced the financial market troubles that Greece and Portugal have. However, a recent warning from S&P serves as a reminder of the consequences of not taking action. The current government's ability to handle the situation is being questioned by the business daily Il Sole 24 Ore. Berlusconi's party did not perform well in recent elections, with the center left holding onto power in Turin and Bologna, and forcing run-offs in Naples and Milan for the center right. A defeat would likely worsen a divide with his key ally, the Northern League, and may lead to challenges to his strong leadership of the center right, even though senior ministers have stated there will be no changes before the next national elections in 2013. Defence Minister Ignazio La Russa, a loyal supporter of Berlusconi, stated that he does not see any chance of an alternative government and believes early elections are not desired by anyone. In Milan, where Berlusconi started his political career, incumbent center-right mayor Letizia Moratti is behind in the first-round vote against leftist Giuliano Pisapia. Residents of Milan noted a changing atmosphere in the city after voting. Issues at the regional level, such as transportation and the ongoing garbage crisis in Naples, have influenced voters' decisions. However, the struggling national economy has been the main focus during the elections. Italy has been experiencing slow economic growth for more than a decade, with high youth unemployment and a decrease in the average Italian's wealth compared to 10 years ago. Berlusconi's government recently had to revise its growth forecast for the year downwards, as well as for the following year. Despite concerns raised by S&P about Italy's debt and growth, the Treasury was able to sell bonds successfully. Berlusconi, who initially underestimated the significance of the elections, has shifted his focus to attacking his political opponents on television. He predicted that if the left wins, Milan will turn into an "Islamic gypsyland". He also stated that leftist voters lacked intelligence, leading to Internet spoofs and a lawsuit from an offended voter. A rant against Italian magistrates directed at US President Barack Obama during the Group of Eight summit in Deauville, France caused Economy Undersecretary Daniela Melchiorre, a former magistrate, to resign in protest. | 1 |
Three additional US congressmen have joined the Congressional Caucus for Bangladesh. Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Gifford and New York congressmen Mike McMahon and Scott Murphy made the announcement during a meeting of the newly formed alliance, the 'New Democratic Coalition Pact', on Monday. They have committed to advocating for Bangladesh's interests on issues such as climate change, the environment, and the proposed Indian construction of the Tipai Dam. Representatives from the Bangladeshi-American Public Affairs Front and US-based BNP leader Gias Ahmed were also present at the meeting. Congressman Joseph Crowley, who serves as co-chairman of the Bangladesh Caucus, stated that he is actively working towards securing duty-free access for Bangladeshi ready-made garments in the US market. He was also interested in ensuring that expatriate Bangladeshis have the legal right to live and work in the US. Currently, there are about 39 congressmen who are part of the Bangladesh Caucus. Patrick Kennedy, the son of the late Senator Edward Kennedy, who was a strong supporter of Bangladesh, recently joined the Bangladeshi Caucus in America. | 1 |
Labor has regained power after being in opposition for nine years, with strong support for the Greens and climate-focused independents helping to overthrow the conservative coalition in the recent general election. The newly appointed prime minister, Albanese, expressed his desire to lead a government that unites rather than divides Australians. Despite ongoing vote counting and government formation, Albanese was sworn in quickly so he could attend a meeting with the "Quad" security grouping in Tokyo. He acknowledged that Australia's relationship with China remains challenging, especially in light of the upcoming summit with the leaders of the United States, Japan, and India. Deputy Labor leader Richard Marles and three key ministers, Penny Wong in foreign affairs, Jim Chalmers as treasurer, and Katy Gallagher in finance, were all sworn in. Wong will be joining Albanese on the Quad trip. Labor's campaign focused heavily on Albanese's working-class background, being raised in public housing by a single mother on a disability pension, and his reputation as a unifier. The Centre-left Labor party is currently leading in 76 seats out of the 151 in the lower house, with some races still too close to call. Independents or the Green party are expected to win more than a dozen seats as postal votes are still being counted. "Teal independents" running in affluent, Liberal-held areas with a platform centered on climate, integrity, and equality, may have a significant impact. Independent Monique Ryan emphasized that climate change was the top concern for voters in her electorate of Kooyong in Melbourne, a sentiment echoed by outgoing Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Ryan stated that their platform was shaped by the values and desires of the people they listened to. Albanese expressed his hope for Labor to win enough seats to govern independently, but also mentioned agreements with some independents to not support no-confidence motions against his government. Upon his return from Japan, Albanese plans to quickly fulfill his election promises, which include establishing a national anti-corruption commission and a A$15 billion manufacturing fund to boost Australia's economy. The full ministry will be sworn in on June 1. Australian financial markets did not have a strong reaction to the election results on Monday, as the outcome was already anticipated and no major shifts in economic policies are expected. The economists at Commonwealth Bank of Australia stated that their economic forecasts and predictions for the Reserve Bank of Australia remain the same, despite the change in national leadership. | 1 |
While much attention is focused on the 2008 presidential campaign, Republicans are also aiming to regain control of the U.S. Senate, which they narrowly lost to the Democrats last year. The Democrats currently hold a 51-49 majority with 34 Senate seats up for election in November 2008. Experts believe that the Democrats are in a strong position to maintain their majority, as they only need to defend 12 seats compared to the Republicans' 22. Jennifer Duffy, who specializes in Senate races at the Cook Political Report, sees potential for the Democrats to succeed but is unsure if it will be realized. She stated that the majority is not likely to change, as the Republicans are focused on minimizing their losses. The control of the Senate will be important for the White House in the upcoming year, regardless of who replaces Bush. The Senate plays a crucial role in determining the fate of a president's policies, as many important bills require 60 votes for passage. Senate races will be influenced by issues such as the Iraq war, the economy, tax cuts, and climate change, according to government professor Anthony Corrado from Colby College in Maine. He stated that the upcoming election will put the Republicans in a defensive position, with discussions focusing on arguments for change. Duffy mentioned that it was not certain that Democrats would gain many seats. A recent poll indicated a 10-point decrease in support for Democrats since April, down to 44 percent. Democrats were elected in 2006 with a promise to withdraw troops from Iraq, but have not yet been able to fulfill that pledge. Congress will potentially reach a turning point in September when anti-war measures will be considered. A number of Republicans are being targeted by Democrats to increase their majority, including Norm Coleman in Minnesota, Susan Collins in Maine, John Sununu in New Hampshire, and the seat being vacated by Wayne Allard in Colorado. Democrats also need to defend seats held by Mary Landrieu in Louisiana, Mark Pryor in Arkansas, and Tim Johnson in South Dakota, who is recovering from brain surgery. The Republicans have not yet chosen a candidate for Landrieu's seat, leading to speculation about former Arkansas Governor potentially running. Mike Huckabee might consider abandoning his pursuit of the presidency and instead run against Pryor. According to Sen John Ensign, the head of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, the Republican party is expected to perform better than anticipated. Ensign believes that the Democrats' chances of winning the Senate were underestimated in the past and that running elections will ultimately determine the outcome. He also mentioned that the Democrats' stance on reversing tax cuts and their opposition to the Iraq war could benefit the Republicans, who lost Senate control in 2006 after losing six seats. Sen. Charles Schumer of New York, the Democratic counterpart to Ensign, argues that the Iraq war, now in its fifth year, would benefit his party. Schumer believes that Democrats, with a history of balancing the budget, will appeal to voters. He states, "Republicans have lost touch and we're going to sweep in on a mandate of change." The potential retirement of senators like John Warner of Virginia and Pete Domenici of New Mexico could make the fight even tougher for Republicans, putting more seats in play. Additionally, Democrats have raised twice as much money as Republicans during the first four months of 2007, with $18.3 million compared to $9.1 million. In a closely contested Minnesota election, comedian Al Franken, the top Democratic contender, has already collected $1.35 million in the initial quarter, which is a significant achievement compared to the $1.53 million raised by Coleman. | 1 |
Just prior to the start of new climate discussions in Glasgow, the G20 nations promised to cease funding for coal-fired power plants abroad. This announcement came after Chinese President Xi Jinping made a similar commitment to the United Nations General Assembly in September. Research from Boston University's Global Development Policy Center revealed that this pledge by the G20 means that nearly all development finance institutions are dedicated to reducing investment in coal and increasing support for renewable energy. According to Rebecca Ray, a senior researcher at the GDP Center and co-author of the study, if these institutions uphold their promises, it will be easier for developing countries to secure official funding for renewable energy and phasing out coal power plants instead of constructing new coal-fired facilities. The study identified only three major institutions - the Development Bank of Latin America, the Islamic Development Bank, and the New Development Bank - as "holdouts," although many of the primary shareholders in these institutions were part of the G20 commitment. Xi's September announcement that China will no longer participate in overseas coal projects has had a significant impact, as it has cut off major financial support for coal-fired power from institutions such as the China Development Bank and the Export-Import Bank of China. The decision prompted the Bank of China to also commit to ending new overseas coal mining and power projects. According to an expert involved in developing guidelines to reduce carbon emissions in China's Belt and Road investments, Chinese financial institutions were already aware of the declining demand for coal-fired power, making it easier to implement Xi's directive. The expert emphasized the seriousness of the commitment, noting that the institutions are actively seeking reasons to discontinue such projects rather than looking for excuses to continue them. Analysts said that China's decision to withdraw from coal projects is a significant alignment of political, economic, and climate interests, as coal struggles to compete with renewables and is forecasted to become "stranded assets" worth billions of dollars. Matt Gray, an analyst with TransitionZero, explained that the change in economics and negative experiences with financing coal through the Belt and Road Initiative have led to this decision. He also mentioned that this decision is a response to the political signals that China has been seeking. | 1 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.