Amsterdam, May 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Netherlands is not only one of India's important trading partners but also serves as a gateway to Europe, India's Ambassador in Amsterdam, Kumar Tuhin, said on Thursday, ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the country.

In an interaction with IANS, Tuhin said PM Modi and his Dutch counterpart Rob Jetten are expected to discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including trade and investment, technology, education, health, maritime cooperation, and the current international situation.

Here are the excerpts:

IANS: What are the key objectives of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the Netherlands?

Ambassador Tuhin: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Netherlands is very important for several reasons, especially because this will be the first interaction at this level between the two leaders after the formation of the new government in the Netherlands.

We expect the leadership to review the progress made across diverse sectors, consolidate the gains achieved so far, and provide fresh strategic direction to the bilateral relationship. I also expect significant progress in areas such as new technologies, semiconductors, and sustainable energy.

IANS: Which major agreements or deals are expected to be signed during the visit?

Ambassador: When meetings take place at this level, leaders discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, including trade and investment, technology, education, maritime cooperation, and the current international situation.

At this stage, it would be difficult for me to specify which agreements or Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) may be concluded, as that will depend on the discussions between the two leaders.

IANS: How important is the India–Netherlands partnership in areas like trade, technology, semiconductors, and clean energy?

Ambassador: The Netherlands is not only an important trading partner for India but also serves as a gateway to Europe. We expect that with the India–EU Free Trade Agreement likely coming into effect later this year, the role of the Netherlands will become even more significant.

In the energy sector as well, the Netherlands is home to many globally renowned energy companies, several of which already have strong partnerships with India.

Considering our PM Modi’s focus on Mission LiFE and the transition to clean energy, there is tremendous scope for building a mutually beneficial and synergistic partnership.

IANS: How can this visit strengthen investment opportunities between India and the Netherlands?

Ambassador: As mentioned earlier, trade and investment ties are already strong. A large number of Indian companies are present in the Netherlands, while several Dutch companies operate in India. These companies already have exposure to Indian talent, professionals, and skilled manpower.

There is significant potential not only for increased investment but also for partnerships in projects, capacity building, and stronger institutional collaboration.

IANS: What role can Dutch companies play in India’s manufacturing and green energy ambitions?

Ambassador: At the government level, the Netherlands is already partnering with India in multiple ways. The country is a member of the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). India is also a member of the Global Commission on Adaptation.

Given this strong foundation between the two governments, along with growing private-sector partnerships, we believe this relationship can lead to greater exchanges and collaborations.

This is truly a complementary partnership that the Netherlands has technological strength and expertise, while India offers scale and market size. Along with shared values, these complementary strengths create enormous potential.

IANS: How significant is the Indian diaspora in strengthening bilateral ties between India and the Netherlands?

Ambassador: The Netherlands is home to one of the largest Indian diasporas in Europe.

The diaspora community is highly active, contributing professionally to the local economy and politics while also promoting Indian culture through festivals and cultural activities.

At the same time, they help bring Dutch expertise and cultural elements to India. They truly act as a living bridge between the two countries.

I feel privileged to be posted here, as it gives me the opportunity to interact with such a vibrant, dynamic, and diverse Indian diaspora.

IANS: Will the visit include discussions on education, innovation, and student exchange programmes?

Ambassador: As mentioned earlier, when leaders meet at this level, no subject is excluded. These areas will certainly be discussed.

Excellent work has already taken place in education and academic collaboration. Last year, for example, a Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between six IITs in India and the University of Twente and TU Eindhoven.

Similarly, important collaboration is underway with the University of Groningen. I believe this visit will help take cooperation in education, innovation, and student exchanges to new heights.

IANS: What work has been done between India and the Netherlands in the health sector?

Ambassador: As mentioned earlier, health is one of the important sectors in our bilateral partnership, alongside water and agriculture.

Last year, two MoUs were signed in the pharmaceutical sector. In addition, cooperation in healthcare is ongoing through Joint Working Group meetings, with several more meetings planned soon after the visit.

The Netherlands is home to advanced healthcare technologies, while India has a vibrant and innovative healthcare ecosystem. This creates an excellent opportunity for collaboration, especially in healthcare innovation, pharmaceutical partnerships, and professional exchanges between doctors and researchers.

I believe that after this visit, cooperation in the health sector will grow significantly.

IANS: Are there discussions with the Netherlands on energy cooperation amid West Asia tensions?

Ambassador: Like India, the Netherlands is also an energy-importing country. Therefore, the impact of the current situation in West Asia affects them as well.

There will certainly be discussions on this issue. However, I would not like to prejudge the specific details of what the leaders will discuss.

The broader global situation, including developments in the Gulf region and energy security concerns, will naturally form part of the discussions.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, May 3 (SocialNews.XYZ) The successful launch of Pakistani satellite Electro-Optical Satellite (EO-3) by its Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) from Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre, a strategic base in China, led to public celebrations as people rejoiced over nation's expansive space ambitions.

However, the circulation of an archival photo of the satellite, presented as an "after-launch" picture, dented the public mood with many questioning the sanctity and success of the satellite launch.

The satellite, called PRSC-EO3, lifted off from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in northern China and rode into the orbit aboard a Chinese Long March-6 rocket on April 25.

The satellite carried high-resolution imaging capability.

Though SUPARCO didn't release any official specifications, a viral image linked to the satellite, shared on Pakistani social media raised many eyebrows.

According to a report in Eurasia Review, the image was widely shared on Pakistani social media after the launch and it was presented as EO-3's first captured photograph -- showcasing satellite's inaugural transmission from orbit.

The image whipped up national pride as well as public sentiments.

Soon after, official reports disputed the image's originality and said that it was an archival image, posted on SUPRACO's website months before its launch in 2025.

The photo stoked national pride and whipped up public sentiments but in absence of any official acknowledgement, the photo only created confusion and doubts, eventually faded through the social media.

Taking note of controversy, the report highlights Pakistan's duplicity saying, "The juxtaposition -- real satellite, fake photo -- is not accidental. It reflects something structural about how Pakistan's information environment operates, particularly around moments of genuine achievement that are not considered sufficient on their own terms."

The report also sheds light on Pakistan's clever and clumsy attempt to fan public sentiments despite the fact its satellite was pushed into orbit by Chinese rocket, an infrastructure that the nation doesn't possess.

It also went to dig out multiple incidents of the Operation Sindoor aftermath, when Pakistan's communication wing went overboard in circulating fake videos, fabricated images and also false advisories purportedly to show destroyed Indian air defence systems, damaged airfields, and burning weapons facilities -- claims that remained far from truth.

The report points to Pakistan's penchant for pushing false rhetoric and propaganda by manipulating details and images.

In one incriminating incident, one piece of footage circulated as evidence of destruction on Indian side was traced to an army simulation video game.

The report further states, "Pakistan has a documented history in this domain. Paksat-1 was acquired in 2002 -- the satellite itself had been in orbit since 1996, originally launched as Palapa-C1 for Indonesia. When former Presidentr General Pervez Musharraf promoted it as evidence that Pakistan had surpassed India in space technology, the indigenous capability claim was false."

"The satellite was third-hand -- originally bought by Indonesia, later sold to Turkey, and then hurriedly purchased by Pakistan to occupy its only remaining orbital slot," it added.

The EO-3 is placed in its orbit and will perform its work as specified over the next few days.

But, what stands exposed is Pakistan's dubious and fake information drive.

The image which else could have symbolised its cosmic prowess, instead went to create doubts over its overrated claims.

Source: IANS

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Washington, March 31 (SocialNews.XYZ) US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Tuesday said that Washington has already taken steps to “set the conditions” to keep the Strait of Hormuz operational, even as military operations against Iran continue.

“There are many more vessels flowing through today than there were,” Hegseth said told reporters at a Pentagon news conference here, adding that the US had made clear to Iran to “open it for business or… we have options.”

He stressed that the Strait of Hormuz is “an international waterway” and should not be seen as solely a US responsibility.

“The world ought pay attention… it’s not just the United States Navy,” he said, noting that other powers should be prepared to contribute to securing maritime traffic.

Hegseth also pointed to the broader military effort underway, including targeting Iran’s naval capabilities such as mine-laying systems, coastal cruise missiles and unmanned aerial systems.

“We’ve been focused from the beginning on degrading and defeating those capabilities and limiting their options,” he said.

US officials indicated that both visible and undisclosed measures are being implemented to safeguard the waterway, which remains a key transit route for global energy supplies.

“There’s lots we’re doing… some of which is known, some of which is not known to set the conditions,” Hegseth said.

The Pentagon’s emphasis on burden-sharing reflects growing calls for allied participation in securing international shipping lanes, particularly as tensions with Iran raise risks to commercial vessels.

The Strait of Hormuz, linking the Persian Gulf to global markets, is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. Any disruption could have immediate implications for oil-importing countries, including India.

The US has repeatedly warned that threats to the Strait would trigger a strong response, underlining its central role in global energy security and maritime stability.

Source: IANS

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Athens, March 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pakistan's ranking as the worst affected country in the 2026 Global Terrorism Index, despite a global decline in terrorism, exposes its deep-rooted internal challenges. The data in the index underscores both the immediate impact of violence and the long-term repercussions of structural and strategic policy choices, a report has highlighted.

According to a report in Greek City Times, this represents a statistical reality positioning Pakistan at the centre of the global terrorism landscape, shaped by patterns that have evolved over the years and continue to influence its present.

"In a year when much of the world recorded a decline in terrorism, Pakistan moved sharply in the opposite direction. The Global Terrorism Index 2026 presents a stark statistical portrait: Pakistan now ranks as the most terrorism-affected country in the world. The figures are not abstract," the report detailed.

"In 2025 alone, the country recorded 1,139 deaths, 1,045 attacks, 1,595 injuries and 655 hostages. Its score of 8.574 places it above all other nations on the index, marking its deadliest year since 2013. This reversal stands out against a global backdrop of improvement," it added.

The report noted that violence in Pakistan remains geographically concentrated, with the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan accounting for 74 per cent of all attacks and 67 per cent of total deaths in 2025.

These regions, it said, defined by persistent instability and limited state control, continue to serve as the epicentre of militant activity.

The analysis of the borderlands, the report said, attributes the pattern to decades of permissive conditions along the Afghanistan-Pakistan frontier.

The tribal belt in Pakistan, the report said, long partially governed, provided a safe haven for terror groups, including al-Qaeda, the Haqqani Network and, subsequently, domestic outfits.

“The continuity of ethnic and social networks across the Durand Line has further enabled cross-border movement, complicating enforcement and surveillance. These structural conditions, highlighted in the index, underscore a longstanding challenge: militant networks operating within environments where governance remains fragmented and contested," it mentioned.

The report highlighted that the Global Terrorism Index projects Pakistan’s present situation as the cumulative impact of long-term structural and policy decisions.

The identified factors — ranging from permissive border regions to ideological networks and evolving militant ecosystems — reflect patterns that have evolved over decades.

Asserting that the findings are based on consistent trends rather than isolated incidents, the report said, “The rise in attacks, the concentration of violence in specific regions, and the prominence of particular groups all point to a system under sustained pressure. Pakistan's position at the top of the index is not presented as an anomaly but as the result of an extended trajectory. The data suggests that the drivers of this trajectory remain active, continuing to shape the country’s security landscape.”

Source: IANS

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Washington, March 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) US President Donald Trump said that successive layers of Iran’s leadership had been “eliminated” during ongoing US military operations, saying the country was struggling to find new leaders amid sustained pressure.

Speaking at a roundtable on Monday in Memphis, Trump said US strikes had not only targeted military infrastructure but also senior figures within Iran’s system. “We eliminated their leaders. We had the first set of leaders; they’re gone,” he said.

He added that attempts to replace them had also been hit. “Then the second set, 88 people met to pick a new leader, and they’re now extinguished,” Trump said, describing a cycle in which new leadership groups were repeatedly targeted.

“And then they’re meeting again, but now nobody wants to be the leader,” he said, calling it “one of the few political jobs that nobody wants anywhere in the world”.

Trump said the operations were part of a broader effort to dismantle Iran’s ability to threaten the United States and its allies. “We’re systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America,” he said.

He linked the pressure on Iran’s leadership to what he described as significant military losses. “We knocked out their Navy. We knocked out their air force. We knocked out their anti-aircraft. We knocked out everything,” Trump said.

According to Trump, the campaign had also severely degraded Iran’s missile capabilities. “We’re destroying their ballistic missiles and drones’ programs, with launchers down by more than 90 per cent,” he said.

He argued that the strikes had shifted Iran’s negotiating position. “It’s only because of the great job that our military did is the reason they mean business,” Trump said. “They want to settle.”

At the same time, Trump said the United States had opened a short diplomatic window, indicating that planned strikes on certain targets had been postponed to allow for talks.

“We’re giving it five days, and then we’re going to see where that takes us,” he said, adding that Iran had “one more opportunity” to end its threats.

Trump reiterated that the central US objective remained unchanged. “We’ll ensure that Iran never obtains a nuclear weapon,” he said.

He also said Iranian officials had previously signalled their nuclear capability in talks. “Its own negotiators bragged to our representatives about having enough material to make nuclear weapons,” Trump said.

Trump suggested that Iran’s actions in the region had backfired. “They started shooting all of their neighbours,” he said, adding that “their neighbours then turned against them”.

He said the situation had left Iran weakened both militarily and politically. “They’re not threatening us anymore,” Trump said.

The remarks present a picture of a campaign aimed not only at military assets but also at leadership structures, suggesting an effort to destabilise decision-making within Iran while forcing it towards negotiations.

Source: IANS

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Washington, March 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) An influential Republican senator has raised concerns over the Trump administration’s lack of clarity on its objectives in the Iran conflict, warning that the approach could strain ties with key allies even as he backed aspects of President Donald Trump’s policy.

In an interview on ABC News' This Week with George Stephanopoulos, Senator Thom Tillis said the US strategy in Iran remains unclear.

“I don’t know, and I think it’s a real problem,” Tillis said when asked about the objective of the war.

He said the initial military action appeared effective. “I thought the initial bombing raid a while back was very successful,” he said, adding that limited follow-up operations could be justified.

However, he cautioned that the broader strategy remains undefined. “Now, it’s very ambiguous. I don’t know what our long-term strategic goals are,” he said.

The remarks come as the Pentagon prepares a potential request of up to $200 billion to fund the war effort, a move that would require bipartisan support in Congress.

Tillis said lawmakers need clarity before approving such spending. “We need to know how that money is going to be spent,” he said.

He added that securing funding would require political consensus. “We’re going to have to figure out how to accomplish that,” he said, noting the need for Democratic support.

At the same time, Tillis warned against a shift towards isolationism following US intervention in the region.

“We can’t, all of a sudden, go out there and intervene the way we have and then suddenly become an isolationist in the back end of it,” he said.

He stressed that global supply chains and allied economies depend on stability in the Strait of Hormuz. “Our allies, our partners and the people we rely on to stabilise the Middle East… rely on it,” he said.

Tillis also pushed back against criticism of NATO after Trump described allies as unwilling to support efforts in the region.

“I don’t think that they’re cowards,” Tillis said, adding that allies were not consulted before military action, which affected their response.

“I think they’re people that weren’t consulted on a major military operation,” he said.

He warned that US actions could damage long-term partnerships. “You just can’t have it both ways,” he said, referring to intervening militarily and then expecting allies to manage the consequences.

Tillis, a senior member of the Senate NATO Observer Group, said relationships with allies remain critical to US security.

“American lives have been saved by the NATO alliance,” he said, warning that weakening it would carry “enormous risk”.

Despite his criticism, Tillis reiterated support for the President’s broader approach. “I generally support what the President’s doing in Iran,” he said, while calling for greater clarity and coordination.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, March 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Canada is facing fresh calls to take firm action against Khalistani extremist elements operating from its soil, amid concerns that separatist networks continue to use the country as a base for anti-India activities.

The issue has remained a persistent irritant in ties between India and Canada, with New Delhi repeatedly raising concerns about pro-Khalistan groups organising events, spreading propaganda and targeting Indian diplomatic missions.

An opinion piece published by Khalsa Vox argued that Ottawa can no longer ignore the activities of extremist elements advocating the creation of Khalistan and must move decisively against networks promoting violence and intimidation.

The commentary said the problem is not about restricting legitimate political expression but about confronting individuals and organisations that glorify violence, issue threats, and attempt to radicalise sections of the diaspora.

It noted that extremist rhetoric and campaigns directed at Indian diplomats and institutions have continued in recent years, raising questions about the effectiveness of Canada’s response to such activities.

The article also emphasised that the vast majority of Sikhs living in Canada do not support separatist extremism and that conflating the broader community with fringe elements would be both inaccurate and harmful.

According to the commentary, failure to act against extremist groups risks allowing them to exploit democratic freedoms to promote divisive and violent agendas while damaging bilateral ties.

India has on several occasions conveyed its concerns over the activities of pro-Khalistan organisations abroad, urging Canadian authorities to take stronger action against groups and individuals linked to separatist propaganda and violence.

The opinion piece argued that decisive steps against extremist networks would not only help protect democratic institutions but could also contribute to rebuilding trust in relations between India and Canada.

It added that addressing the issue firmly would send a clear signal that advocacy of violence and intimidation has no place in democratic societies.

Source: IANS

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Seoul, March 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) The presidential Office of South Korea's National Security denounced North Korea's launches of ballistic missiles on Saturday as violating UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions, calling for a halt.

The office issued the message after holding an emergency security assessment meeting shortly after North Korea fired around 10 ballistic missiles toward the East Sea.

"The latest ballistic missile launches by North Korea constitute a provocation that violates UNSC resolutions, and we call for an immediate halt," the office said in a press release.

The office also reported details of the missile launches and Seoul's countermeasures to President Lee Jae Myung, it said.

Attended by officials from the defence ministry and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the meeting examined the repercussions of the latest missile launches on South Korea's security and necessary countermeasures, also calling for thorough contingency readiness at home, reports Yonhap news agency.

The North fired the missiles at around 1:20 p.m. from Sunan, near Pyongyang, with them flying some 350 kilometres. The South Korean military, together with the United States, is currently analysing the details about the missiles' specifications.

The launches mark the first ballistic missile test since the North's last launch on January 27. The rare launch of about 10 missiles at once appears to be a reaction to the annual springtime military exercise between Seoul and Washington, the Freedom Shield, which began Monday for an 11-day run.

Meanwhile, the South Korean and US militaries staged joint river-crossing drills in the border county of Yeoncheon on Saturday as part of their annual key springtime exercise aimed at enhancing interoperability between the allies.

The field training coincided with North Korea firing around 10 ballistic missiles toward the East Sea earlier in the day. The North's missile launch came in an apparent muscle-flexing against the Seoul-Washington joint military exercise.

The training took place on the Imjin River in Yeoncheon, located about 50 kilometres north of Seoul, involving some 200 pieces of equipment, including KM3 amphibious bridging vehicles and ribbon bridge systems, according to the armed services.

Source: IANS

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Washington, March 3, (SocialNews.XYZ) The United States has struck “over 1,700” targets across Iran in the first 72 hours of Operation Epic Fury, unleashing bombers, fighter jets and missile systems in one of the largest direct military actions in recent years, as the White House declared “America will win” and that “the terrorist Iranian regime will be defeated.”​

The operation began at “1:15 am, February 28, 2026,” according to a Pentagon fact sheet titled Operation Epic Fury — First 72 Hours. It said U.S. Central Command “commenced Operation Epic Fury at the direction of the President of the United States” and is striking targets “to dismantle the Iranian regime’s security apparatus, prioritising locations that pose an imminent threat.”​

The White House, separately, listed four objectives. It said the mission is to “Destroy the Iranian regime's missiles,” “Annihilate their Navy,” “Ensure their terrorist proxies can no longer destabilise the world,” and “Ensure Iran can NEVER obtain a nuclear weapon.” It added: “America will win. The terrorist Iranian regime will be defeated.”​

CENTCOM said the Iranian regime is “using mobile launchers to indiscriminately fire missiles in an attempt to inflict maximum harm across the region.” It added: “U.S. forces are hunting these threats down and without apology or hesitation, we are taking them out.”​

The Pentagon document listed “Target Location: Iran” and “Targets Struck: Over 1,700.” It said the operation is taking place within the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility.​

The assets deployed reflect the scale of the campaign. They include B-1, B-2, and B-52 bombers. Fighter aircraft include F-15, F-16, F-18, F-22 and F-35 jets. The U.S. also used A-10 attack jets, EA-18G electronic attack aircraft, and airborne early warning systems.​

Missile defences listed include Patriot interceptor missile systems and THAAD anti-ballistic missile systems. The fact sheet also cited MQ-9 Reapers, M-142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, guided-missile destroyers, and “special capabilities we can’t list here!”​

Targets struck include “Command and Control Centres,” “IRGC Joint Headquarters,” “IRGC Aerospace Forces Headquarters,” “Integrated Air Defence Systems,” “Ballistic Missile Sites,” “Iranian Navy Ships,” “Iranian Navy Submarines,” “Anti-ship Missile Sites,” and “Military Communication Capabilities.”​

Even as operations continued, senior House Democrats demanded detailed answers from the administration.​

In a March 2 letter to top national security officials, lawmakers wrote: “The decision to initiate or expand armed conflict is among the gravest responsibilities entrusted to our government.” They added: “A number of our brave service members have already lost their lives in this conflict.”​

The letter said Congress and the American people are owed “clear objectives, legal justification, and a defined strategy.” It said a classified briefing “must address strategy, intelligence, legal justification, and long-term consequences in concrete terms.”​

Lawmakers requested answers on “Imminent Threat Justification,” “Strategic Objectives and Victory,” “Regime Change,” “Nuclear Security,” risks to the “Strait of Hormuz and Maritime Security,” and the “Costs and Impacts on Munitions Inventories.”​

The United States and Iran have had adversarial relations since 1979. Tensions have centred on Iran’s nuclear programme, ballistic missile development, and support for armed groups in the region.​

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Any sustained disruption there can affect energy prices and markets worldwide.

Source: IANS

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Tel Aviv, Feb 28 (SocialNews.XYZ) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday confirmed that Israel and the United States had carried out a joint military operation, dubbed 'Operation Lion's Roar', against Iran, describing the action as necessary to remove what he termed an “existential threat” posed by the Iranian regime.

In a video message addressed to the nation, Netanyahu said the operation was launched to counter the danger emanating from Tehran.

"My brothers and sisters, citizens of Israel, just an hour ago, Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran," he said.

Netanyahu thanked US President Donald Trump for his support and leadership in the operation.

"I thank our great friend, President Donald Trump, for his historic leadership," he stated.

The Israeli Prime Minister accused Iran’s leadership of decades of hostility and violence.

"For 47 years, the Ayatollahs' regime has chanted 'Death to Israel', 'Death to America'. It has spilt our blood, murdered many Americans, and massacred its own people," Netanyahu said.

Emphasising Israel’s long-standing concerns about Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, he added, "This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity."

Netanyahu said the joint military action was also intended to create an opening for political change within Iran.

"Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands," he said.

In his address, the Prime Minister appealed directly to various ethnic groups within Iran, including Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Baloch and Ahwazis, urging them to rise against the ruling establishment and portraying the strikes as paving the way for a freer Iran.

"The time has come for all parts of the Iranian people -- the Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Baloch, and Ahwazis -- to cast off the yoke of tyranny and bring freedom and peace-loving values to Iran," Netanyahu said.

He also called on Israeli citizens to strictly follow official safety instructions amid the escalating conflict.

"I call on you, citizens of Israel, to heed the instructions of the Home Front Command. In the coming days, during Operation 'Lion's Roar,' we will all be called upon to show patience and strength of spirit," he said.

"Together we will stand, together we will fight, and together we will ensure the eternity of Israel," Netanyahu added, as tensions in the region continued to mount.

Source: IANS

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Tel Aviv, Feb 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Tel Aviv on Wednesday on a two-day State Visit, his first to the country since 2017. In a special gesture, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara Netanyahu welcomed PM Modi at the Ben Gurion airport.

Both leaders hugged each other warmly displaying their trademark camaraderie and friendship which taken the relationship between both countries to a new high over the last decade.

During his visit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Netanyahu, Israel President Isaac Herzog, address Israeli Parliament - Knesset - and take part in various other programmes.

PM Modi last visited Israel in 2017, a trip which opened new avenues in defence, agriculture, and water management cooperation between the two countries. Netanyahu had also welcomed PM Modi at the airport in 2017 also.

In his departure statement on Wednesday, PM Modi stated that he is looking forward to his engagements with Netanyahu, aimed at further strengthening cooperation in various sectors and discussing regional and global issues.

"India and Israel share a robust and multifaceted Strategic Partnership that has witnessed remarkable growth and dynamism in recent years. I look forward to my discussions with Prime Minister Netanyahu aimed at further strengthening our cooperation across various domains, including science and technology, innovation, agriculture, water management, defence and security, trade and investment, as well as people-to-people ties," he said.

During the visit, PM Modi will also meet Israeli President Isaac Herzog and hold talks with him on various bilateral issues.

"I will also have the honour of becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Israeli Parliament, Knesset, an occasion that would be a tribute to the strong parliamentary and democratic ties that bind our two nations," he said.

The Prime Minister said that he eagerly looks forward to interacting with the members of the Indian diaspora, "who have for long been nurturing the India-Israel special friendship".

"I am confident that my State Visit will further consolidate the enduring bonds between the two countries, set new goals for the Strategic Partnership, and advance our shared vision for a resilient, innovative and prosperous future," PM Modi added.

On Sunday, PM Modi warmly acknowledged Netanyahu's personal tribute during a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, where the Israeli PM described PM Modi as a "dear friend" and hailed his upcoming visit as a milestone in bilateral ties.

In his response to a video posted by Netanyahu on X, PM Modi stated, "Thank you, my friend, Prime Minister Netanyahu. I fully agree with you on the bond between India and Israel as well as the diverse nature of our bilateral relations. India deeply values the enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress. Looking forward to our discussions during my upcoming Israel visit."

Netanyahu had shared a video from the cabinet meeting on X. In his remarks to his cabinet, Netanyahu termed PM Modi's arrival in the country as a historic moment, underscoring the strength of the India-Israel alliance.

He spoke of a vision to forge a broader "axis of nations" in the Middle East -- an alliance of like-minded countries united "against radical forces" and committed to stability, security, and technological advancement.

Highlighting his personal rapport with PM Modi, the Israeli PM noted their frequent exchanges and mutual visits, calling the Indian leader not just a partner but a "personal friend".

Elaborating on PM Modi's engagements in Israel, Netanyahu said, "On Wednesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive. He will address the Knesset, and I am sure you will all be there. We will also hold an innovation event in Jerusalem and visit Yad Vashem together. I will also note something else, a special collaboration. We will advance cooperation in high-tech, AI, and quantum. I say AI and quantum not because it's not the future, it's the present, and we want to be among the world's leading nations in this field".

Source: IANS

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Mexico City, Feb 10 (SocialNews.XYZ) Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said that her government will continue providing humanitarian aid to Cuba, despite US sanctions targeting countries that trade with or send oil to the Caribbean nation.

"There will be more support. The Mexican people are always solidary. No one can ignore the situation that the Cuban people are currently experiencing due to the sanctions being imposed by the United States," Sheinbaum said on Monday at her daily press conference, Xinhua news agency reported.

The president called on the United States and the international community to recognize that the sanctions are unfair to the Cuban people.

Mexico has recently dispatched two navy ships carrying 814 tonnes of food supplies to Cuba.

Earlier on Friday, speaking from Michoacan, Sheinbaum said that her government would be delivering the aid imminently.

She said that she would also continue “diplomatic efforts” with the US to restore Cuba’s access to oil, a necessary fuel to power the country’s electrical grid.

But Sheinbaum acknowledged that the US has threatened to issue tariffs against any country that seeks to circumvent its energy blockade. “Obviously, we don’t want sanctions against Mexico,” she told reporters.

Her remarks come after Trump issued an executive order last week declaring that Cuba’s communist government constituted an unusual and extraordinary threat to the US, thereby requiring a national emergency declaration.

Source: IANS

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Washington, Dec 19 (SocialNews.XYZ) US President Donald Trump ordered the closure of federal executive departments and agencies on December 24 and December 26, granting government employees two additional days off around the Christmas holiday.

Under the executive order signed at the White House, “all executive departments and agencies of the Federal Government shall be closed and their employees excused from duty” on Wednesday, December 24, and Friday, December 26, the days immediately before and after Christmas Day.

The order allows agency heads to keep certain offices or facilities open and require employees to report for duty when necessary “for reasons of national security, defense, or other public need,” ensuring that essential services continue to operate during the holiday period.

The Director of the Office of Personnel Management has been directed to take the steps needed to implement the order.

Trump signed the order on December 18, formally directing the temporary closure of federal offices as part of the administration’s holiday schedule.

US presidents have traditionally used executive orders to provide federal employees with additional time off around major holidays, particularly Christmas, while maintaining exceptions for essential government functions.

Christmas Day is a federal holiday in the United States, when most government offices are already closed. By adding closures on December 24 and December 26, the order effectively extends the holiday period for federal workers, subject to operational requirements and public service needs.

Source: IANS

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Dhaka, Oct 8 (SocialNews.XYZ) Bangladesh's National Consensus Commission (NCC) announced on Wednesday that it will submit its final recommendations to the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government on October 10, aiming to enable political parties to sign the July National Charter 2025 by October 16, local media reported.

Vice Chair of NCC, Ali Riaz, made the remarks while presiding over the fifth meeting of the Commission with political parties on the implementation of the July Charter, on Wednesday afternoon at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.

"The Commission will hand over its final recommendations to the government by October 10. There is a target to complete the formal signing of the July National Charter by the political parties on October 15 and 16," Bangladeshi media outlet United News of Bangladesh (UNB) quoted Riaz as saying.

He noted that the issues raised as "notes of dissent" by political parties must also be considered.

"The issues that have come as 'notes of dissent' in the July National Charter need to be considered. We don't think all of them can be treated equally because those who have given such notes did so from their respective positions. We hope these reflect not only partisan interests but also broader considerations," Riaz added.

The NCC Vice Chair said the differing opinions should be clearly communicated to the public when seeking consent through a referendum.

"We have to make sure that when people give their consent, they do so knowing that some political parties have reservations on certain issues," said Riaz.

Around 30 political parties, comprising the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the radical Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami and National Citizen Party (NCP), participated in the discussions to finalise the implementation procedures of the July National Charter.

Earlier in July, the second phase of discussions involving 30 political parties and the NCC was launched as political uncertainty and instability gripped the country.

Several political parties, including Jamaat, NCP, and Islami Andolan, raised objections to the draft of the July National Charter.

The parties, particularly opposed to the provision to implement reform proposals within two years of forming the government after the national elections, demanded that the July Charter be incorporated into a legal framework to ensure its implementation.

The second phase of the discussions was aimed at completing the recommendations of various reform commissions set by the interim government and drafting the July Charter.

Source: IANS

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Moscow/New Delhi, Oct 7 (SocialNews.XYZ) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a telephone conversation with the Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he also congratulated him on his 73rd birthday and conveyed best wishes for his good health and success in all his endeavours.

The two leaders reviewed the progress in the bilateral agenda, and reaffirmed their commitment to further deepen the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia.

PM Modi conveyed that he is looking forward to welcoming President Putin to India, in December for the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

India and Russia marked the 25th anniversary of the Declaration of Strategic Partnership between both countries on October 3.

The Declaration on Strategic Partnership signed by former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Russian President Vladimir Putin on October 3, 2000, took the bilateral relations of India and Russia to a new level characterised by coordinated approaches towards ensuring international peace and security, addressing major global and regional issues, as well as close cooperation in economic, cultural, educational, and other areas.

"The year 2025 has already been rich with numerous bilateral exchanges and a particularly warm and substantial engagement of our leaders at the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Tianjin. Later this year, we look forward to the upcoming bilateral summit in New Delhi, which will coincide with the 15th anniversary of elevating our strategic partnership to the level of a ‘special and privileged’ relationship," stated Denis Alipov, the Russian Ambassador to India.

On the same day, Putin strongly backed India's decision to continue its oil trade with Moscow, while praising Prime Minister Modi's leadership.

Speaking at the Valdai Discussion Club in Sochi, Putin praised PM Modi as a "balanced and wise leader" and emphasised the unique bond between the two countries.

Putin dismissed any political motivation behind India's purchase of Russian crude oil, asserting that it is driven purely by economics.

"There is no political aspect here... If India refuses our energy supplies, it will suffer certain losses. Estimates vary; some say it could be around $9-10 billion. But if it doesn't refuse, sanctions will be imposed, and the loss will be the same. So why refuse if it also carries domestic political costs?" he said.

Putin had further expressed confidence in India's resilience and its refusal to bend under external pressure, saying, “Of course, the people of a country like India, believe me, will closely monitor the decisions made by the political leadership and will never allow any humiliation in front of anyone. And then, I know Prime Minister Modi; he himself would never take any steps of this kind."

Putin also underscored the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Russia and India, highlighting historical ties that date back to India's independence movement.

"In India, they remember this, they know it, and they value it. We appreciate that India has not forgotten it... We have never had any problems or interstate tensions with India. Never," he said.

Referring to Prime Minister Modi as a friend, Putin noted their comfortable and trustworthy relationship, calling him a "balanced, wise and nationally oriented" leader.

New Delhi and Moscow are actively preparing for Putin's planned visit to India in December to attend the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit.

Prime Minister Modi held a bilateral meeting with the Russian President on the sidelines of SCO Summit last month, citing that the close cooperation of both nations is important for the peace, prosperity and stability in the world.

During their meeting, PM Modi said that 1.40 crore Indians are "eagerly waiting" for the Russian President's arrival for the 23rd India-Russia Summit in December.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Sep 26 (SocialNews.XYZ) The recent meeting between National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie G. Drouin, reflected a carefully constructed rules-based compact to manage the India-Canada relationship’s most sensitive issues, a report cited on Friday.

Sanjay Kumar Verma, former Indian diplomat and the country's former Ambassador to Ottawa, stated that this illustrates the essence of the new normal: incremental, reciprocal, and deliberately modest, aimed at preventing disputes from undermining the wider relationship rather than resolving each one.

"When the National Security Advisors of India and Canada, Ajit Doval and Nathalie Drouin, met in New Delhi on September 18, 2025, the encounter marked something significant: the return of a structured channel to manage differences and anchor cooperation. After two years of rupture, the two sides are no longer trying to restore the past; they are cautiously constructing a new normal, grounded in reciprocity, rules, and operational trust,” Verma, the current Chairperson of the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), wrote in India Narrative.

“The meeting was presented as part of a standing security dialogue, less a dramatic restart than a methodical re-engagement. For India, the priorities were clear—countering terrorism, defending territorial integrity, safeguarding sovereignty, and fighting transnational organised crime. For Canada, the emphasis was on non-interference, rule of law, sovereignty, and transnational repression,” he added.

The seasoned diplomat emphasised that what emerged was not a grand strategy but a pragmatic alignment, highlighting a shared intent to manage the relationship through principles and mechanisms rather than political theatrics.

According to the report, the arrest of Khalistani extremist Inderjit Singh Gosal in Ontario following the NSA meeting exemplifies this emerging new normal. India had long flagged Gosal as a coordinator for the Khalistani outfit Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) - an organisation formally banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act since July 2019, for fomenting secessionism and promoting violence in the name of Khalistan.

"Gosal's detention on firearms charges followed years of Indian complaints about reactive Canadian enforcement. Ottawa's earlier posture under the gaze of the then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, framed by protections of expression and assembly, had fed perceptions of permissiveness. His September 2025 arrest, however, underscored that without political interference, logical enforcement can proceed within Canada’s own legal framework," the report detailed.

“For India, this was a sign that structured engagement can yield results. For Canada, it was an affirmation that such action was consistent with its laws and sovereignty, not a concession to external pressure,” it noted.

Source: IANS

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Tokyo, Aug 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung met former Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga and other lawmakers in Tokyo on Sunday to discuss ways to advance bilateral relations, the presidential office said.

Lee held talks with Suga and other members of the Japan-South Korea Parliamentarians' Association and briefed them on his Saturday summit with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said in a written briefing, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The Japanese lawmakers welcomed Lee's pick of Japan as his first destination for a bilateral summit since taking office in June and positively evaluated his meeting with Ishiba, vowing to work together for "future-oriented" ties, according to Kang.

Lee also met separately a delegation led by Yoshihiko Noda, leader of the Constitutional Democratic Party, and discussed ways to further develop bilateral relations through active parliamentary exchanges, she added.

On Saturday, the South Korean President urged Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba to forge closer cooperation to cope with a vortex of changes in global trade and the security order, in their first full summit before Lee is set to hold a high-stakes summit with US President Donald Trump.

Calling Japan a "neighbour that shares a front yard", Lee expressed hope for the two countries to work together to expand cooperation in a wide range of areas, while working to minimise unnecessary conflicts.

"As the international order in trade and security is fluctuating, I believe the Republic of Korea and Japan, which share similar positions in terms of values, order and ideology, must strengthen their cooperation more than ever," Lee said in his opening remarks, referring to South Korea by its official name.

Ishiba echoed the sentiment, underlining the importance of the closer bilateral ties and trilateral cooperation with the US.

"Strengthening cooperation among Japan, South Korea, and the United States is very important," Ishiba said. "Peace and stability will not come unless we make active efforts, and this is all the more true in such a turbulent era."

Ishiba also thanked Lee for choosing Japan as his first bilateral destination before visiting the US.

The Saturday summit with Ishiba comes before Lee will head for Washington for summit talks with Trump, in a rare diplomatic decision for South Korean Presidents, who typically choose Washington, a key defence ally, as their first diplomatic destination after taking office.

It was Lee's second in-person meeting with Ishiba, following their encounter on the sidelines of the Group of Seven summit in Canada in June, which Lee described as marking the resumption of "shuttle diplomacy" between the two nations' leaders.

Source: IANS

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New Delhi, Aug 24 (SocialNews.XYZ) Bangladesh is heading for a pivotal general election in February 2026, the first since the dramatic fall of Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule in August 2024.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who leads the interim government, announced that the Election Commission (EC) would finalise dates two months ahead of the polls.

Hasina's ouster came after a student-led uprising dubbed the "second liberation".

While her tenure delivered economic growth, poverty reduction, and landmark infrastructure projects like the Padma Bridge, it was marred by accusations of authoritarianism, corruption, and suppression of dissent.

Yunus' transitional government promised democratic renewal but has drawn criticism for banning Hasina's Awami League from contesting, echoing the same exclusionary tactics it condemned.

More than 420,000 people have been arrested in security crackdowns, and over 640 journalists have faced attacks or imprisonment.

The political landscape is further complicated by the re-entry of Jamaat-e-Islami.

Once outlawed, the Islamist party has been legally restored and is preparing for the polls. Its resurgence has coincided with rising attacks on religious minorities, particularly Hindus, during festivals such as Durga Puja.

Another emerging force is the National Citizen Party (NCP), born from the "Students Against Discrimination" movement.

Advocating for a "Second Republic", the NCP calls for a new constitution, decentralisation, judicial independence, and minority rights. However, its refusal to participate under the current Election Commission raises doubts about its parliamentary impact.

As elections approach, Bangladesh faces a defining test: whether Yunus' government will ensure inclusivity and transparency or slide into another cycle of divisive politics.

Observers stress that allowing all parties -- including the Awami League -- to participate is critical.

Notably, analysts warn of parallels with Pakistan's tumultuous military-backed transitions of the past.

The outcome of the 2026 vote will determine whether Bangladesh can consolidate its democratic aspirations or risk deepening political instability under the guise of reform.

Source: IANS

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Seoul, Aug 21 (SocialNews.XYZ) North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has met with ground commanders of the North's troops deployed to the front-line Kursk region and "highly appreciated" their role in aiding Russia's war on Ukraine, the North's state media reported on Thursday.

The meeting with commanding officers of the Korean People's Army's overseas operation unit took place on Wednesday (local time), as they returned home to attend a commendation ceremony, reports Yonhap, quoting the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Kim received a briefing on the military activities of North Korean forces abroad and "highly appreciated their feats of leading the combat units of our armed forces, which participated in the operations to liberate the Kursk Region of the Russian Federation, to victory," according to the KCNA report.

Kim said North Korea has assigned them to carry out the "most important duty" and conveyed "warm militant encouragement" to all commanders and combatants on the mission, the KCNA said.

The news agency also quoted Kim as saying: "Our army has fully demonstrated its unique qualities. Such a result has cemented its appellation and reputation as the most powerful army in the world.

"Our army is now doing what it ought to do and what needs to be done. It will do so in the future, too," he also said.

KCNA photos showed high-ranking officials of the military's General Staff at the meeting, including vice chief Ri Chang-ho, who were reported to have been deployed to the Russia-Ukraine war in its early stages.

The report said the first commendation awarding ceremony for service members who served in the overseas mission is scheduled to take place.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 16 (SocialNews.XYZ) US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin started their "high stakes" summit on Friday after a choreographed welcome ceremony at the airport.

Trump walked from Air Force 1 to the red carpet and clapped as Putin walked over to him and they shook hands warmly, and walked to a waiting limousine, talking directly without interpreters.

Later, they appeared in a conference room against a backdrop that read "Pursuing Peace", with officials, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russia's Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov present, instead of the earlier proposal of first having direct talks between themselves.

Before flying to Alaska, Trump cryptically posted on social media, "HIGH STAKES!!!", summing up the importance of the meeting to find an end to the Ukraine War.

"I want to see a ceasefire rapidly," he told reporters travelling with him on Air Force 1.

"I don't know if it's going to be today, but I'm not going to be happy if it's not today," he added a note of caution.

"I'm in this to stop the killing," he said, of the biggest war in Europe since the end of World War II eight decades ago.

He also reiterated his clarification, "I'm not here to negotiate for Ukraine. I'm here to get them at a table."

He also said that he would raise Russia's continuing attacks on Ukraine even as diplomatic efforts were on.

"It actually hurts him, but in his mind, that helps him make a better deal if they could continue the killing," he added.

He said it is in his genes to act like that.

Trump added sternly, "I'll be talking to him about it."

As they sat down for their meeting, reporters shouted out questions to Putin about the continuing carnage in Ukraine and he appeared to say something that was not audible on the video.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky, who will not be at the face-to-face talks between Trump and Putin, echoed Trump's characterisation of the talks, posting on X, "Indeed, high stakes."

He added, "The key thing is that this meeting should open up a real path toward a just peace and a substantive discussion between leaders in a trilateral format -- Ukraine, the United States, and the Russian side. It is time to end the war."

Trump said on Thursday that he expected there would be a quick second summit with Zelensky, Putin, and, possibly, some European leaders if there was progress in his meeting with the Russian leader.

But he has also warned Putin of "very severe consequences" if there were no ceasefire.

En route to Anchorage, Putin stopped at Magadan in Russia's far east, where he symbolically placed flowers at a monument honouring US and Soviet pilots ferrying supplies from the US to Russia during World War II, when the two countries were allies.

Putin said on Thursday that Trump has been making "fairly vigorous and sincere efforts to halt hostilities, resolve the crisis, and reach agreements that serve the interests of all parties involved in this conflict".

This will be Putin's first visit to the US after a decade. He was last in the US when he had met former President Barack Obama after a United Nations General Assembly meeting in 2015.

He had met Trump at least six times during his first term and this will be the first direct contact in Trump's second term.

A ceasefire hinges on two main factors: Land swap or re-drawing of borders that would give Russia some Ukrainian territories, and a security guarantee from Europeans and the US for Ukraine.

Source: IANS

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Dubai, Aug 14 (SocialNews.XYZ) India's general elections and the electoral process , often referred to as the largest democratic exercise on the planet, remains "one of the most trusted in the world" cited a report published in a leading English daily of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday. However, the term, it said, hardly does justice to the scale considering that approximately 980 million people were eligible to vote during the Lok Sabha elections held in 2024.

The elections were conducted across a record one million-plus polling stations, guarded and staffed by over 15 million officials and staff, the Khaleej Times said in a report. The nationwide election process is conducted every five years with almost clockwork precision.

"The institution at the heart of this mammoth operation is the Election Commission of India (ECI), an autonomous constitutional body that has earned international respect for its independence and efficiency. Established in 1950, it operates with a mandate enshrined in the Constitution, immune from political interference, and guided by a clear code of conduct," the report highlighted.

It further stated: "Its credibility rests on a relentless commitment to fairness - from monitoring campaign finance to enforcing the Model Code of Conduct that governs political behaviour, the ECI’s authority is both legal and moral. Working ceaselessly without fear or favour, it has a culture of accountability that has made India’s electoral process one of the most trusted in the world."

India was the first nation to use mass electronic voting for the first time in the world way back in 1982. In the report, Former Chief Election Commissioner TS Krishnamurthy, under whose tenure EVMs were used extensively, stated, "EVMs are a matter of pride for India as they cannot lie, and I have no doubts about the credibility of the machines."

Critics of technology in elections often highlight its vulnerabilities, Khaleej Times said in its report. However, India's use of technology has strengthened trust. Since 2004, India has used Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) across the nation, replacing the paper ballots that faced delays and manipulation. Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) systems were introduced enabling each voter to confirm their choice on a printed slip before it drops into a sealed box for possible cross-verification.

Biometric voter ID systems, GPS tracking of poll parties, and live webcasting from sensitive booths were conducted to form a multilayered defence against fraud. Observers from the Commonwealth to the United Nations have praised India’s ability to blend scale with security, even as they lauded the election process for its transparency, peacefulness, inclusiveness, and accessibility.

The most important feature of polls in India is their inclusivity, the report stated. The Election Commission of India ensures 100 per cent accessibility, creating polling stations in mountain hamlets, desert villages, and islands in the Sundarbans. Voters with disabilities, senior citizens, and those residing in remote conflict areas receive special facilities by ECI so that they can participate in the electoral process.

"For countries seeking to strengthen democratic institutions, the Indian example offers a simple yet profound lesson: integrity is not an accident; it is the product of vigilance, inclusivity, and a culture that places the voter - every voter - at the centre," the report detailed.

Source: IANS

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Kabul, Aug 3 (SocialNews.XYZ) A total of 400 individuals who had been struggling with drug addiction have made a full recovery and rejoined their families in Herat province, western Afghanistan, according to a statement issued late Saturday by the office of the Deputy Minister of Interior for Counter-Narcotics.

The recovered addicts, who were gathered from various districts of the province, underwent a three-month medical treatment and rehabilitation program before reintegrating into their families, Xinhua News Agency reported, citing the statement.

Earlier this week, another 516 former drug users in Herat and neighbouring Nimroz provinces also completed rehabilitation and reunited with their families.

As part of ongoing efforts to combat drug addiction, Afghan police have recently rounded up 125 drug users in the provinces of Farah, Balkh, Ghazni, Sari Pul, and Samangan. These individuals have been transferred to rehabilitation centres for medical care and support.

The Afghan interim government has banned the cultivation of poppy and the trafficking of narcotics as part of a broader initiative to eliminate drug abuse and its impact on society.

Earlier on July 27, Afghanistan's Ministry of Interior Affairs said that Afghan counter-narcotics police have discovered 57 kg of opium and arrested a suspected drug smuggler in Badakhshan province. The contraband was discovered during a series of operations conducted on the outskirts of the Argo district of the province, said the statement, adding that one individual was arrested in connection with the case.

On July 24, Afghan security forces seized 1,000 kg of illicit drugs and arrested two alleged drug smugglers in southern Afghanistan's Zabul province, the Ministry of Interior Affairs said in a statement. The opium was concealed inside a truck and discovered during a counter-narcotic operation in Shahjoy district, the ministry said.

Two individuals were arrested in connection with the drug trafficking, and their dossiers were referred to the judiciary for further investigation, the statement said.

Source: IANS

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Windhoek, July 9 (SocialNews.XYZ) Using cricketing analogy to underscore the vast potential for growth in India-Namibia bilateral ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said that both countries are only "warming up" and will "score faster, score more" in the years to come.

Addressing the Joint Session of the Parliament of Namibia in Windhoek during his one-day State Visit to the African nation, PM Modi said that both countries are part of the Global South and have people sharing similar hopes and dreams.

"Our bilateral trade has crossed $800 million, but like on the cricket field, we are just warming up! We will score faster and score more! We are honoured to support Namibia's youth through the Entrepreneurship Development Centre. It will be a place where business dreams can get mentorship, funding and friends, too," said PM Modi.

PM Modi began his address by mentioning that he stands before the Namibian lawmakers as "a representative of the Mother of Democracy", bringing with him the warm greetings from 1.4 billion people of India.

Highlighting that India and Namibia share strong democratic ideals and values, he also recalled the legacy of Dr. Sam Nujoma, the founding father of Namibia, stating that at the heart of this historic relationship are the people of the two countries.

Charting the goal for future of the India-Namibia partnership, PM Modi emphasised that India will walk hand-in-hand with Namibia and in solidarity with the Global South. He stated that India and Namibia have much in common with both countries having fought colonial rule.

"We not only value our ties from the past, but we are also focused on realising the potential of our shared future. We see great value in working together on Namibia's Vision 2030. And, at the heart of our partnership are our people. Over 1700 Namibians have benefited from scholarship and capacity-building programmes in India," he mentioned.

Both countries, he said, value dignity and freedom with the constitution guiding them to uphold equality, liberty and justice.

"It's the power of India's Constitution that a daughter from a poor tribal family is today the President of India. It's this very Constitution that gave someone like me the chance to become Prime Minister. Not once, not twice, but three times. When you have nothing, the Constitution gives you everything!" he said.

India, said PM Modi in his address, is not only progressing with its own development but also giving direction to the dreams of the world, with a special emphasis on the Global South.

"This is India's message: that you can achieve success by following your own path, with your culture and dignity intact," stated PM Modi.

He highlighted that Namibia is the first country to adopt India's UPI and soon, people of the African country will be able to send money faster than one can say "Tangi unene", or thank you very much.

"India is ready to supply Namibia with a Bhabhatron radiotherapy machine for advanced cancer care. This machine, developed in India, has been deployed in 15 countries and has helped half a million patients in different countries with critical cancer care.

"Our development partnership in Africa is worth over $12 billion. But its real value is in shared growth and shared purpose. We continue to build local skills, create local jobs and support local innovations. We also invite Namibia to join the Jan Aushadhi programme for access to affordable and quality medicines. Under this programme, the costs of medicines in India have been brought down by 50-80 per cent. It's helping more than one million Indians daily. So far, it has helped patients save nearly USD 4.5 billion in healthcare costs," said PM Modi.

As he began to address the Parliament, PM Modi received a standing ovation from lawmakers and chants of 'Modi, Modi' also reverberated in the air.

This was PM Modi's third address to a Parliament in a week.

On July 3, ​Prime Minister Modi addressed a special session of the Parliament of Ghana, becoming the first Indian Prime Minister to do so.

A day later, on July 4, PM Modi, at the invitation of the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House, addressed the Joint Assembly of the Parliament of Trinidad & Tobago (T&T). He was the first Prime Minister from India to address the T&T Parliament, and the occasion marked a milestone in India-Trinidad & Tobago bilateral relations.

Earlier, following their discussions on further strengthening bilateral ties, Prime Minister Modi and Namibia President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah witnessed the exchange of two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of health and entrepreneurship, in Windhoek.

The MoU on setting up of an Entrepreneurship Development Centre in Namibia and another on Cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine came on the occasion of PM Modi's one-day State Visit to Namibia, the first at the level of Prime Minister after 27 years.

In addition, it was announced that Namibia has joined the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and Global Biofuels Alliance.

The African nation is also the first country to enter into a licensing agreement to adopt UPI technology with the announcement on launching of Digital Payments system in Namibia later this year being an outcome of the signing of the UPI technology licensing agreement between NPCI and Bank of Namibia in April 2024.

Source: IANS

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Kathmandu, Oct 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) The Nepali government has decided to provide 200,000 Nepali rupees ($1,497) in compensation to each of the bereaved families, as the death toll from monsoon rain-induced floods and landslides hit 209.

A three-day national mourning starting from Tuesday was also announced following a cabinet meeting, Xinhua news agency reported on Monday.

"The national flag will be lowered to half-mast during the mourning period," said Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung, who is also the government spokesperson, on Monday evening.

He told the press that families who have members missing for more than 10 days in the disasters spelt by incessant rainfalls on Friday and Saturday will receive the same amount of compensation.

The Cabinet decided to allocate 1 billion rupees ($7.48 million) to the Prime Minister's Disaster Relief Fund, Gurung noted.

By Monday evening, 24 people remained missing and 130 others were injured, Nepal Police said in a statement, adding "the rescue efforts are ongoing".

The Nepal Police, Armed Police Force, and Nepali Army are working together in the ongoing rescue operations. However, efforts have been significantly hampered by damaged infrastructure, with key roads blocked due to landslides and flooding, complicating the transportation of essential supplies and aid.

In an advisory issued on Monday, Nepal Police urged the public to stay vigilant, especially those residing in high-risk areas. They recommended checking with local police stations for updates on road conditions before undertaking long journeys, as many routes remain dangerous or impassable.

Source: IANS

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Tunis, Sep 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) Tunisian coast guards have retrieved 12 bodies of undocumented immigrants, including three infants, after their boat sank off Djerba Island in southeastern Tunisia, Tunisian radio Mosaique FM reported Monday.

"A total of 29 immigrants were rescued during the operation, and the search for the missing, the number of whom was not specified, is still underway," Houcemeddine Jbabli, spokesperson for the Tunisian National Guard, told the radio.

"The boat set sail this morning at around 5:15 am local time (0415 GMT)," Jbabli said, adding that most of the immigrants were Tunisian nationals, accompanied by two foreign immigrants, Xinhua news agency reported.

Last week, the Tunisian maritime guards had found 13 bodies of undocumented immigrants in the coastal province of Mahdia in eastern Tunisia.

"Ten bodies were washed ashore on Tuesday night in Salakta, and three others were found in Chebba," said Farid Ben Jha, the spokesperson for the courts of Mahdia and Monastir, adding that the deceased were immigrants from sub-Saharan African countries.

He stated that the 13 bodies, which were in a state of decomposition, were transferred to a hospital for necessary procedures to determine their identities.

Ben Jha added that an investigation has been launched to determine the causes of death, Xinhua news agency reported.

Located in the central Mediterranean, Tunisia is one of the most popular transit points for illegal immigration to Europe.

Source: IANS

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London, Jan 6 (SocialNews.XYZ) After UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's wife Akshata Murthy wounded up her start-up investment firm, Catamaran Ventures in December last year, the country's main opposition has raised questions asking the impact of its closure on other companies.

Indian-origin Murthy became a majority shareholder in the investment company -- founded by the couple in 2013 -- after Sunak stepped down as its director in 2015 when he became an MP.

In a letter to Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, the Labour Party has asked what impact the closure of Catamaran Ventures could have on the government-backed business and any other companies it retained a stake in, the BBC reported.

The party's national campaign co-ordinator Pat McFadden also asked what the arrangement was for the payment of tax owed to HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs), and whether the firm would fulfil all its liabilities to the British taxpayer.

"It is vital that these questions are answered in the interests of, to quote the Prime Minister himself, 'integrity, professionalism and accountability'," McFadden wrote in the letter.

It was reported last year in the local media that Catamaran Ventures held shares in Study Hall -- an education start-up which received a government grant of almost 350,000 pounds.

According to the BBC, with the election expected in 2024, McFadden's move most likely signifies Labour's willingness to try to make Akshata and her wealth an issue in campaigning.

Denying that the Labour was trying to create "political capital" out of the issue, McFadden said his party just wanted to ensure that "everything is properly declared here, as this venture now winds up".

A spokesperson for Murthy said after the business was wound up, "a significant donation has been made to ShareGift, an independent UK-registered charity with experience accepting donations in the form of shares".

With the exception of one company, all the holdings of Catamaran Ventures have been transferred to ShareGift, the BBC reported.

Early last year, Sunak came under scrutiny after it emerged that his billionaire wife had shares in a childcare agency, which stood to gain from a new policy announced in the then budget.

It was reported that Koru Kids, which listed Murthy as a shareholder, was likely to benefit from a scheme announced by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt.

According to an October 2023 media report, Murthy earned more than the combined parliamentary salaries of all Labour MPs in the year.

The couple entered The Sunday Times Rich List in 2022 for the first time with their joint 730 million pound fortune.

Akshata Murthy is said to be wealthier than even King Charles III due to her 430 million pounds stake in her billionaire tycoon father Narayana Murthy's IT empire.

Source: IANS

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Amman, Oct 12 (SocialNews.XYZ) Jordan on Thursday dispatched a plane with humanitarian aid, including essential medical supplies to the Gaza Strip.

The relief plane will land in Egypt before making its way to the Gaza Strip through the Rafah border crossing, following coordination with Egyptian authorities, the state-run Petra news agency reported.

The aid is aimed at helping ensure medical treatments amid the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, Xinhua news agency reported.

The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) on October 7 launched a surprise attack on southern Israeli towns adjacent to the Gaza Strip, prompting Israel to launch retaliatory strikes on Gaza.

Both sides have suffered heavy casualties, with a death toll amounting to more than 2,600 as of Thursday.

Source: IANS

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New York, Aug 25 (SocialNews.XYZ) A 29-year-old Sikh man has been arrested and charged with murder after he allegedly shot at and killed his girlfriend at a parking garage in California. 

Simranjit Singh was arrested last week after police suspected him of killing his 34-year-old girlfriend at Galleria mall's five-story parking garage in Roseville city. 

"Singh appeared in the court on Wednesday and the Public Defender's Office was appointed to represent the defendant," the Placer County District Attorney's Office, which filed the charges against Singh, said, adding that the defendant did not enter a plea. 

The couple had arrived together at the mall, and after killing the woman at around 10.30 a.m. on Saturday morning, Singh tried to run away and left a gun inside the car, which was recovered by the police, CBS News reported. 

"The suspect was detained very quickly, that's kind of with eyewitness accounts, with the help of security," a police spokesperson said. 

"We were able to locate him very quickly across the street and not on the mall property," the police said, adding that a second person of interest was interviewed and released after questioning. 
"There is no longer a threat or safety concern to the mall or customers. Police will remain on scene to investigate the incident. We will provide more information after the investigation," the Roseville Police Department said. 

Singh has since been held at the Placer County Jail in California without bail. Police said they will release the victim's name once the next of kin has been notified. 

Source: IANS

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Istanbul, June 22 (SocialNews.XYZ) Turkish people are mostly preferring a brief vacation during the Eid al-Adha holiday because of the nearly 40 per cent inflation, local media reported.

To give a boost to domestic tourism, this year's Eid al-Adha holiday was extended to nine days in Turkey starting from June 24 instead of the traditional four days, Xinhua news agency reported.

But the majority of Turks are booking hotels for a five-night stay rather than the entire nine-day vacation, business daily Economy reported on Wednesday.

Bulent Bulbuloglu, a member of the board of the Turkey Hoteliers' Association (TUROFED), was quoted by the daily as saying that the rising prices are affecting demand from local tourists, and people who see their income erode tend to go on holiday less.

Hotel rates increased by 80 to 100 per cent this summer compared to last year, according to TUROFED.

Due to the rising cost of living, people would rather visit their relatives during the holiday or stay at friends' or relatives' summer houses but not book a hotel, according to Hamit Kuk, a member of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies.

In the meantime, some citizens are getting bank loans to go on a holiday during Eid.

In a statement to Xinhua, loan calculator HangiKredi, an online platform that enables users to compare and apply for banking products, said the search for bank loans ahead of the extended holiday increased by 20 per cent.

"During the Eid al-Adha holiday, which was extended to nine days, the advantageous interest rates and campaigns of banks in holiday loans increased the applications of citizens who look for budgets to meet their holiday needs," HangiKredi Director General Oray Durmazoglu said.

Turkey's annual inflation fell to 39.59 per cent in May after hitting a 24-year high of 85.51 per cent in October last year, according to official data.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Saturday said his government's priority would be to reduce inflation to single digits.

Turkey will raise the monthly minimum wage by 34 per cent to 11,402 liras ($484.08) starting July to protect the purchasing power of workers against inflation.

Source: IANS

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Tripoli, June 2 (SocialNews.XYZ) The UNHCR has said that more than 100 refugees, who will be resettled in Norway, have been flown out of Libya.

"Yesterday (May 31), more than 100 refugees left Libya for the Emergency Transit Centre in Romania, where they will be processed for their resettlement to Norway," the UNHCR said on Thursday in a statement posted on its Facebook page.

The evacuated refugees included individuals from Sudan, Eritrea, Syria, South Sudan, Somalia and Yemen, with several women and children at heightened risk, said the statement as quoted by Xinhua news agency report.

The UNHCR urged other states to "consider offering similar safe and legal pathways for asylum-seekers and refugees in need of international protection".

Since 2017, the UNHCR has resettled more than 3,400 refugees to Europe, Canada and Australia, the statement added.

Source: IANS

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Islamabad, June 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Pakistan has decided to negotiate a new programme with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) immediately after the budget as the coalition government is planning to conclude the $6.5 billion Extended Fund Facility (EFF) without completing all the pending review.

The coalition government has been negotiating with the Washington-based lender to revive its bailout programme since November, with the financing gap among the biggest roadblocks. There's about $2.5 billion left to disburse from the $6.5 billion programme that's scheduled to expire on June 30, Geo News reported.

The sources said that while negotiations on the ninth review were almost complete, a staff-level agreement is yet to be reached. Even after this review completes, the 10th and 11th reviews will remain pending.

"Completion of both reviews before June 30 seems impossible and the government has decided against seeking an extension," the sources said, adding that Ishaq Dar-led Ministry of Finance will approach the Fund for a new programme after budget - which is expected to be tabled on June 9, Geo News reported.

The sources further revealed that if the coalition government fails to complete the negotiations before its term ends in August, the caretaker government will hold talks with the Washington-based lender.

Disclosing some of the details of the new programme, the sources said that the economic team has begun working on the agreement "which is expected to be tougher" than the existing programme agreed in 2019 by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, Geo News reported.

Moreover, they said that the new bailout programme will likely be for more than three years. "Pakistan will desperately need an IMF programme in September as the country needs to pay around $9-11 billion dollars in repayments of external debt by December 2023," they added.

Source: IANS

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Firoz Koah (Afghanistan), May 1 (SocialNews.XYZ) Afghan counter-narcotics police destroyed a drug processing lab and arrested a person in Afghanistan's western Ghor province, said a statement of the Ministry for Interior Affairs released here.

Acting on a tip-off, the units of counter-narcotic police launched an operation in the Shahrak district on Saturday, discovered and destroyed a lab and arrested the person from the site, the statement added on Sunday.

The police forces also uncovered a huge quantity of materials used in manufacturing heroin, Xinhua news agency reported.

Afghan authorities have intensified their crackdown on illicit drugs and those involved in the underground business as security personnel arrested 13 alleged drug smugglers in Takhar, Farah, Ghor, Kapisa and Samangan provinces over the past couple of days.

In the fight against illicit drugs, the counter-narcotics police kicked off operations against poppy farms in the eastern Kapisa province on Saturday, and they were expected to destroy 160 hectare of poppy farms, provincial police said in a statement.

The supreme leader of the Afghan caretaker administration Mullah Hibatullah Akhundzada issued a decree on April 22 banning poppy cultivation and its processing. Since then, Afghan police have tightened the fight against illegal drugs.

Source: IANS

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Islamabad, Jan 30 (SocialNews.XYZ) UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyans day-long trip to Islamabad has been cancelled due to bad weather, the Pakistan Prime Minister's Office announced on Monday, local media reported.

"Due to weather conditions, President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's visit to the friendly Islamic Republic of Pakistan scheduled for today has been postponed to a later date," read the PMO statement, Geo News reported.

The UAE President was scheduled to pay a visit to Islamabad on Monday to discuss the friendship and cooperation between the Gulf state and Pakistan and ways to enhance them in various fields.

The UAE President reached Pakistan on January 25 on a private visit and held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif after he arrived at Rahim Yar Khan in Punjab province. He was scheduled to visit Islamabad on Monday, Geo News reported.

Sharif and members of his Cabinet were set to welcome the UAE President at the Pakistan Air Force's (PAF) Nur Khan Air Base on Monday.

The UAE leader was to be escorted by PAF's JF-17 aircraft to the airbase where he was supposed to be accorded a 21-gun salute.

Later, the UAE President was to be given a guard of honour by the armed forces of Pakistan at the Prime Minister's House, after which he was scheduled to have a one-on-one meeting with Sharif.

On arrival in Pakistan on January 25, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan had dropped clues that his government is planning to broaden its investment footprint in Pakistan - as the country drastically needs foreign inflows to prop up its deteriorating economy.

"Be prepared, the UAE will make huge investment in Pakistan," the sources quoted the UAE President as saying during a cordial meeting with the premier at the airport, Geo News reported.

Source: IANS

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By Vishal Gulati

Montreal, Dec 20 (SocialNews.XYZ) In Montreal at the fifth Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, the world has come together to land a historic deal to protect nature and biodiversity -- a major win for the planet, was the first reaction of Canadian Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault.

"The Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework is a major win for our planet and for all of humanity, charting a new course away from the relentless destruction of habitats and species," said Guilbeault, as the historic deal was adopted on Monday (EST time) by 196 countries under the UN Convention on Biological Diversity.

"Just as Paris produced an agreement to keep global temperatures below 1.5 degrees Celsius, in Montreal we have reached an agreement that commits to the protection of 30 per cent of global land and water by 2030."

"Canada, along with like-minded countries, said from the start that 30 by 30 must be our 1.5 degrees for nature."

"Science tells us this is the minimum needed to protect the future of our planet."

"This new framework sets up an unprecedented financial commitment of mobilising at least $200 billion per year from all sources to support the implementation of this ambitious, comprehensive package. Led by Prime Minister Trudeau, Canada made new financial commitments at COP15 that now put us over $1.5 billion in support of nature and biodiversity in developing nations."

The Canadian Minister said the framework also recognises the rights and role of indigenous people, something Canada strongly advocated for.

"For our part, we took major steps forward in partnership with indigenous communities, including support for new indigenous-led projects that will help us halting and reversing biodiversity loss and achieving 30 by 30 while advancing on the path of reconciliation."

"As we celebrate today's historic agreement, it is worth remembering that six months ago we didn't even know this conference would take place."

"Up until a week ago, Canada, as well as many environmental groups, could only dream of achieving the level of ambition reflected in the final framework text."

"This city, this province, and all of Canada, have stepped up to make this happen."

"Thanks are owed to the UN presidency, led by my counterpart, Minister Huang of China, and to the UN Secretariat, led by Executive Director Elizabeth Maruma Mrema. I was honoured to be entrusted with the role of co-facilitator for ministerial consultations to find the path to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework."

"The health of our forests, oceans, animals, and all biodiversity, underpins the very strength and stability of our societies. We cannot take that for granted any longer. Here in Montr?al, we have set a new course. Now it is time to deliver."

Just ahead of the conclusion of the COP15, Canada imposed the import and manufacture of single-use plastic checkout bags, cutlery, food service ware made from problematic plastics, stir sticks, and straws that are hard to recycle (with some exceptions) from December 20.

The ban on the manufacture and import of ring carriers will enter into force in June 2023.

Over the next decade, the ban on harmful single-use plastics will result in the estimated elimination of more than 1.3 million tonne of hard-to-recycle plastic waste and more than 22,000 tonne of plastic pollution, which is equivalent to more than one million full garbage bags.

The aim of the COP15, which has been delayed for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic, was to reverse the current trend of biodiversity loss by 2030 and to agree on a post-2020 global biodiversity framework, which is to replace the Aichi Biodiversity Targets that were unsuccessful and expired in 2010.

At the beginning of COP15, host Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced CAD $350 million for international biodiversity funding, and later Minister Guilbeault popped to the bank for another CAD $255 million, bringing Canada's grand total to CAD $1.5 billion.

Guilbeault also advocated for $100 billion as the number-rich nations should provide to developing countries for action on nature.

(Vishal Gulati can be reached at vishal.g@ians.in)

Source: IANS

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Washington, April 9 (SocialNews.XYZ) The US has called on North Korea to refrain from further provocations and instead return to dialogue.

Jalina Porter, principal deputy spokesperson for the State Department, made the remarks on Friday amid speculations that the North may be preparing to conduct its first nuclear test since September 2017, possibly next week when it will celebrate the 110th anniversary of the birthday of late founding leader Kim Il-sung, Yonhap news agency reported.

"The Biden-Harris administration has no change in our policy and we continue to urge the DPRK to refrain from further destabilizing activities, and ... instead choose to engage in serious and sustained dialogue," she said, referring to North Korea by its official name, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.

The spokesperson was responding to a question whether there has been a change in the US' North Korea policy after Philip Goldberg, nominee for new US ambassador to South Korea, said the US must push for comprehensive, verifiable and irreversible denuclearisation (CVID) of the North.

The term, CVID, had often been used under previous US administrations, but with the letter C standing for complete, instead of comprehensive.

Pyongyang had often strongly reacted to the term in the past, and the Joe Biden administration has been describing its objective as the complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula instead since taking office early 2021.

North Korea, however, remains unresponsive to US overtures, while being increasingly engaged in provocations.

The country has staged 12 rounds of missile launches so far this year, including seven rounds in January alone that marked the largest number of missile tests it conducted in a single month.

Recent reports said the North also appeared to be repairing underground tunnels at the Punggye-ri nuclear test site, indicating a possible nuclear test down the road.

Source: IANS

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