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World cannot afford military confrontation between India & Pakistan: Guterres UN monitors in Kashmir safe: Spokesperson
United Nations, May 7 (IANS)
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains “very
concerned” about India’s military operation against Pakistan, saying “the world cannot afford a confrontation between the two countries”, according to his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
“He calls for maximum military restraint from both countries”, Dujarric said shortly after India announced missile strikes into Pakistan and territory it occupies in Kashmir.
“The Secretary-General is very concerned about the Indian military operations across the
India-Pakistan conflict is ‘none of our business’, says US Vice-President Vance
Washington, May 9 (IANS) US Vice-President J.D. Vance has said that the conflict between India and Pakistan is "fundamentally none of our business," though he and President Donald Trump are encouraging both the countries to de-escalate.
"What we can do is try to
encourage these folks to de-escalate a little bit, but we're not going to get involved in the middle of war that's fundamentally none of our business and has nothing to do with America's ability to control it. You know, America can't tell the Indians to lay down their arms. We can't tell the Pakistanis to lay down their arms. And so, we're going to continue to pursue this thing through diplomatic channels," Vance, who has been a proponent
Line of Control and international border”, he said.
“The world cannot afford a military confrontation between India and Pakistan”, he added.
India's Ministry of Defence said on Wednesday that it launched “Operation Sindoor” hitting nine places in Pakistan and the part of Kashmir it occupies.
“Focused strikes were carried out on nine #terrorist infrastructure
United Nations, May 8 (IANS) UN ceasefire monitors in Kashmir and in the Pakistan-occupied area are safe and accounted for after the Indian missile strikes
on "terror infrastructure" and the Pakistan shelling, according to a UN spokesperson.
"We checked with our colleagues in peacekeeping, and they said everybody was accounted for, and everybody was safe," Stephanie Tremblay, the UN Secretary-General's associate spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Formally known as the UN
on
UNESCO renews call for enhanced protection of Africa’s heritage sites
Nairobi, May 7 (IANS) The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has renewed its call for enhanced protection and recognition of Africa's heritage sites, given their contribution to cultural pride and tourism. Louise Haxthausen, UNESCO Regional Director for Eastern Africa, told an international
New Zealand lawmaker proposes social media ban for under-16s
Wellington, May 6 (IANS) A New Zealand lawmaker is pushing
for legislation that would ban children under 16 from accessing social media in a move that could see the country follow Australia's lead in tightening regulations on digital platforms.
New Zealand National Party MP Catherine Wedd has introduced a member's bill that would require social media companies to verify users' ages and block minors from creating accounts, according to Xinhua news agency. Platforms could face financial
penalties for non-compliance and would be obligated to take "all reasonable steps" to ensure users are at least 16 years old, Radio New Zealand (RNZ) reported on Tuesday.
"My Social Media AgeAppropriate Users Bill is about protecting young people from bullying, inappropriate content and social media addiction by restricting access for under
Australian govt to make case that US tariffs on foreign films ‘unjustified’
Canberra, May 6 (IANS)
Australia's re-elected Labor Party government will make the case that US tariffs on foreign-made films are "unjustified," a senior minister has said.
Amanda Rishworth, the minister for social services, said on Tuesday that the government's "whole team," including Prime
Minister Anthony Albanese, would present a "very strong case" to the United States against the new tariffs following Labor's landslide victory in Saturday's election for the 48th parliament.
"These are just unjustified tariffs," Rishworth, who is also a member of Albanese's cabinet in the 47th parliament but whose role in the 48th has not yet been announced, told Nine Network television.
US President Donald Trump announced a 100 per cent tariff on films produced outside the United States on Monday, reports Xinhua news agency.
Addressing reporters in Canberra on Monday local time, Albanese said that he had spoken to Trump following the election and that they had discussed tariffs.
Minister for Foreign Affairs
Penny Wong said on Tuesday that the US administration would be made aware of the re-elected government's opposition to the film tariffs.
"We obviously will be pressing views about this to the US administration," Wong, who is set to continue in the foreign affairs portfolio, told Nine.
conference on cultural heritage in Africa, taking place in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, that the continent is a repository of world-famous archeological sites and priceless artifacts that should be preserved for future generations.
Haxthausen said that a sound policy and legal framework is required to boost the protection of Africa's heritage sites amid threats posed by climate change and human activities.
A more inclusive approach involving policymakers, local communities and multilateral partners is required to enrich discourse related to the conservation of heritage sites
on the continent, Haxthausen said, noting that the Africa Union Agenda 2063 champions for safeguarding the health of historic sites and monuments in the continent, given their intrinsic value to indigenous communities.
According to UNESCO, Africa accounts for 12.26 per cent of World Heritage Sites globally, but the sites' future is uncertain given the threat of rapid urbanization, weak protection laws and climatic stresses.
Attendees at the May 6-9 conference, convened by UNESCO, the Kenyan government, and the
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Iran, EU voice readiness to hold political talks on mutual concerns
Tehran, May 6 (IANS) Iran and the European Union (EU) have voiced their readiness to hold political talks over their differences and mutual concerns, according to a statement released by the Iranian Foreign Ministry.
In a phone call on Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas discussed the latest regional and international developments, as well as the progress of indirect nuclear talks between Tehran and Washington, said the statement. Araghchi emphasised Iran's "responsible" approach of choosing diplomacy to resolve what he described as "fabricated concerns" about its "peaceful nuclear program," stressing that advancing the path requires the other side's serious determination and realism, reports Xinhua news agency. He noted that if the US concern
was solely about the likelihood of Iran acquiring nuclear weapons, reaching an agreement on that issue would be entirely feasible. However, he added, this would require avoiding "unreal and illogical" positions.
Araghchi pointed to the talks between Iran and the E3 group of Germany, France and Britain over the past months, expressing Iran's readiness to continue interactions with the European sides either within the framework of the EU or through the E3.
He also voiced Iran's readiness to have political talks with the EU on mutual security concerns.
Kallas, for her part, expressed the EU's readiness to hold political talks with Iran and welcomed the exchange of views on existing concerns with Tehran.
She expressed hope that the two sides deputies would discuss ways to start bilateral talks and prepare the ground to that end.
In September last year, Iran and the E3 initiated their talks on a number of issues, including Tehran's nuclear program and the removal of sanctions, on the sidelines of the annual session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Since then, they have held four additional rounds of talks, the most recent of which took place in Geneva in late March.
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World cannot afford military confrontation between India & Pakistan: Guterres
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sites” in a “precise and restrained response to the barbaric #PahalgamTerrorAttack”, it said in a post on X.
Earlier, the Indian Army said that it has hit nine locations deep inside Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack.
“A little while ago, the Indian Armed Forces launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India
have been planned and directed,” the army in a press release said.
The Indian Army also posted on its official X handle, “Justice is Served. Jai Hind.”
“Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and the method of execution,” the army said.
The Resistance Front, an
offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba, took responsibility for the massacre of 26 people in the Kashmir tourist spot.
On Monday, Guterres reiterated his strong condemnation of the attack and said, "Targeting civilians is unacceptable – and those responsible must be brought to justice through transparent, credible, and lawful means."
He spoke before the Security Council met for closed consultations at the request of Pakistan on the looming conflict.
UNESCO renews call for enhanced protection of Africa’s heritage
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African World Heritage Fund, include senior policymakers, scholars and cultural enthusiasts, Xinhua news agency reported.
They will explore policy, scientific and community-driven
interventions that could boost the resilience of Africa's heritage sites.
Kenyan Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage Hanna Wendot Cheptumo called for sharing of best practices, technology transfer and policy harmonization
sites
to strengthen the protection of historical sites on the continent. Empowering local communities to become custodians of heritage sites will avert erosion of Africa's rich and diverse cultures, while generating revenues through tourism, Cheptumo said.
New Zealand lawmaker proposes social media ban for under-16s
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16-year-olds," RNZ quoted Wedd as saying.
The bill is backed by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, who said he is open to adopting it as a government bill, a move that would fast-track its progress through parliament.
"It's not a political issue. It's actually a New Zealand issue," Luxon said, adding he is seeking bipartisan support. The proposed law is modelled on
legislation currently being implemented in Australia. If passed, it would allow the responsible minister to classify specific platforms as age-restricted and require a formal review three years after coming into force to evaluate their impact.
The Australian bill of social media ban for children under 16, the first in the world, passed the Senate in November 2024.
Social media companies that fail to prevent Australians younger
than 16 from using their service will face fines worth tens of millions of dollars under worldfirst laws.
Under the legislation, the onus to enforce the minimum age limit will fall on social media companies rather than children, parents, or guardians.
Social media companies that systematically fail to enforce the age limit will face fines of up to Australian $50 million ($32.5 million).
Australian govt to make case that US tariffs on foreign films ‘unjustified’
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In a separate interview on Tuesday morning, Wong told Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio that restarting talks with the European Union (EU) on a free trade deal would be an "important part" of Australia's trade diversification.
"If we're a trading nation, we
don't want to be part of trade barriers because it's not good for us. It's an act of economic selfharm, so of course, we'll engage with the EU and others," she said.
Negotiations on the trade agreement with the EU collapsed in 2023 when both sides could not reach an agreement on Australian agricultural exporters' access to the European market.
Labor said in April that it would reopen talks with the EU if victorious at the election.
News Corp Australia newspapers reported on Tuesday that Albanese is prepared to abolish Australia's tax on luxury car imports from the EU in return for better access to agricultural exports.
Guterres encourages efforts to de-escalate India, Pakistan conflict as diplomatic efforts afoot
United Nations, May 8 (IANS)
As attacks were reported across the India-Pakistan borders, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Thursday encouraged efforts to de-escalate the confrontation there, according to his Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq. "Certainly, we encourage all efforts to de-escalate the situation, and encourage both
India and Pakistan to exercise maximum restraint," Haq said.
International diplomatic efforts were afoot to douse confrontation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio speaking to Pakistan Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, while Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel al-Jubeir were in New Delhi on a diplomatic mission.
Haq reiterated: "The world cannot afford another conflict between India and Pakistan, and he (Guterres) has offered his good offices" to help de-escalate
UN monitors in Kashmir safe: Spokesperson
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Military Observers Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has 44 military personnel and 75 civilian staff posted on both sides of the Line of Control (LOC) in Kashmir.
Now headed by Mexican Major General Ramon Guardado Sanchez, UNMOGIP began operations in 1949 monitoring the fragile ceasefire in Kashmir under a UN Security Council mandate.
India has called the UNMOGIP redundant and called for its termination.
The Resistant Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkare-Toiba (LeT) terrorist organisation, owned responsibility for the religiously targeted massacre of 26 people in Pahalgam, a tourist spot in Kashmir.
India launched a missile attack in retaliation, hitting nine places in Pakistan and Kashmir territory it occupies that New Delhi identified as terrorist locations. Pakistan shelled India across the Line Of Control killing at least 10 people, and downing three Indian jets, according to media reports.
On Tuesday night, Pakistan served notice that it was preparing for further attacks on India, telling the UN Security Council that it reserves the right to hit back.
Earlier on Wednesday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres remains "very concerned" about India's military operation against Pakistan, saying "the world cannot afford a confrontation between the two countries," according to his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric.
India-Pakistan conflict is ‘none of our business’, says US Vice-President Vance
... continued from page 1
of US disengagement from international conflicts, said in an interview with Fox News.
"Our hope and our expectation is that this is not going to spiral into a broader regional war or, God forbid, a nuclear conflict," Vance added. "Right now, we don't think that's going to happen."
The remarks by Vance came as Pakistan made a failed attempt to attack military establishment in Jammu, Pathankot and several other cities.
India's air defence system intercepted and neutralised at least eight missiles launched by Islamabad.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump said he wants India and Pakistan to "stop" what he described as "tit for tat" actions, saying if he can do anything to "help", he will be there.
"Oh it's so terrible. My position is I get along with both. I know both very well and I want to see them work it out. I want to see them
stop and hopefully they can stop now. They have gone tit for tat, so hopefully they can stop now. I know both, we get along with both the countries very well."
"Good relationships with both and I want to see it stop. And If I can do anything to help, I will be there," Trump said in response to a question on the "war" between India and Pakistan.
Trump's remarks came after the Indian military carried out strikes against terror targets in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and Pakistan's Punjab province on Wednesday. Pakistan army carried out artillery and mortar shelling targeting forward villages along the Line Of Control in Jammu and Kashmir.
India launched Operation Sindoor early Wednesday hitting nine terror targets in Pakistanoccupied Kashmir (PoK) and Punjab province of Pakistan in retaliation for the April 22 terror attack that killed 26 people in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
American prelate Robert Prevost elected New Pope
the situation.
On Thursday, the conflict was spreading as Pakistan widened attacks beyond the Line of Control to other areas of India.
Aerial attacks by Pakistan targeting Jammu as well as several military stations near the western border were successfully foiled by India’s air defence systems on Thursday night.
The attempted strike, involving drones and missiles, triggered blackouts and sirens across several areas in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Authorities urged residents to remain indoors and vigilant as emergency protocols were activated.
Rome, May 8 (IANS) American prelate Robert Francis Prevost was elected the new Pope on Thursday.
The Chicago-born Prevost, 69, a member of the Augustinian order and who had served extensively in Peru, was Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and President of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America since 2023. He was appointed to the posts by Pope Francis, who elevated him as a Cardinal. He will take the pontifical name of Leo XIV.
Significantly, he is the second successive Pope from the
Americas after the Argentinianborn Pope Francis.
There was eager wait to find who was the new Pope would be, as trademark white smoke billowed out of the chimney high above St Peter's Square in the evening to signify the conclave of the Cardinals had selected the successor to Pope Francis, who passed away last month.
Joy erupted among the clergy and laity awaiting a decision, and all eyes were on the balcony, awaiting the first appearance of the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Addressing the cheering crowd in Italian, the new Pope said: "Peace be with all of you."
"Brothers and sisters dearest, this is the first greeting of Christ resurrected. I would like to offer a greeting of peace to reach your families, all of you, wherever you are. May peace be with you," he said, the BBC reported.
MCCGC workshop teaches emotional wisdom through insight & self-awareness
Brisbane, April 9 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) recently hosted an insightful and empowering workshop, led by Peter Clark from Brahma Kumaris, and inspired by Mike
George’s book Don't Get Mad, Get Wise. The session, delivered by MCCGC’s Community Participation and Capacity (CPC) team, welcomed 20 enthusiastic participants keen to explore new ways of managing emotions. The workshop focused on
practical techniques for understanding, accepting, and transforming emotional responses, especially in challenging situations. Emphasizing self-awareness and staying future-focused, participants were introduced to the powerful
principle: “Don’t suppress, repress, or express… learn to transform.”
Through guided reflection and group discussion, the session encouraged deeper emotional intelligence and resilience, empowering attendees to make
wiser, more thoughtful choices in moments of stress or conflict.
MCCGC’s CPC team continues to create opportunities for community members to grow personally and emotionally, supporting mental well-being and positive social connection.
Ipswich Youth Festival brings community together with music, Fun & connection
Brisbane, April 14 (MCCQ
Newsdesk)
Multicultural Australia marked Queensland Youth Week with a high-energy celebration at the Ipswich Youth Community Festival, held at Brighton Homes
Arena, recently. Organised in partnership with the Queensland Police Service and the Youth Justice Ipswich Youth Co-Responder team, the event brought together young people and families for a day filled with
Shweta Goyal
Brisbane, April 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) has announced Shweta Goyal as the 2025 Cleo Xynias Woman of the Year scholarship recipient. In a
wins ECCQ’s
unity, fun, and cultural pride. The festival featured engaging activities, entertainment, and giveaways by 4KHQ, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere for everyone in attendance.
A major highlight of the day
was the surprise appearance by popular Ipswich artists Lisi and Nokz, whose performance thrilled the crowd and added a memorable touch to the celebration.
With strong support from local
Facebook post, ECCQ described Goyal as “a true embodiment of resilience, leadership, and compassion,” praising her efforts to uplift women through education, mentoring, and personal development.
A researcher and mentor, Goyal advocates for women in STEM and champions equitable access in regional universities. Her coaching work supports women recovering from domestic violence, mental health challenges,
services and the community, the event was a powerful reminder of the importance of connection and celebration in empowering youth and building a stronger, more inclusive Queensland.
and major life transitions. As a self-care strategist, she integrates ancient wisdom with modern psychology to promote emotional well-being, financial independence, and personal growth. Her writing
and advocacy use storytelling to inspire change and healing. ECCQ called her “a powerhouse of change,” saying her journey reflects leadership through service, healing, and hope.
2025 Cleo Xynias Woman of the Year scholarship MCCGC hosts morning tea event to support multicultural seniors on Gold Coast
Brisbane, April 22 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) Care Finder team recently brought together community members and service providers for a special morning tea and information session at New Life Church (NLC), Robina.
In collaboration with Aged and Disability Advocacy Australia, Relationships Australia (Qld), and Queensland Police Service Community Liaison Officers, the event offered attendees a welcoming space to enjoy
refreshments while gaining valuable insights into aged care navigation, advocacy services, relationship support, and community safety. The NLC team served a delightful morning tea, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere for participants to engage and ask questions. The session aimed to empower multicultural seniors and their families with information and resources to access the support they need.
MCCGC continues to lead efforts in building culturally responsive connections across the Gold
Coast, ensuring no one is left behind in navigating life’s later stages.
ECCQ empowers multicultural Queenslanders
Empowerment through health, language access & youth engagement initiatives
Brisbane, April 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) has been at the forefront of empowering multicultural communities through a series of impactful initiatives across Queensland during the first quarter of 2025. On March 22, ECCQ’s Chronic Disease Program hosted a well-attended Community Education Session on COVID-19 and flu prevention at the Northlake Community Centre. Partnering with Queensland
Guangxi Multicultural Communities, the session featured in-language health education and a Taichi activity that promoted both physical and mental wellness. The event underscored the importance of staying informed to protect individuals and communities from ongoing health threats. In mid-April, ECCQ launched its first Interpreter Employment Success Program (IESP) information sessions at the Centacare FNQ Hub in Cairns. Aimed at bi-cultural workers
and participants from the Multicultural and Faith Leaders Networking Event, the sessions introduced a 10-module program designed to enhance interpreting skills in community and freelance contexts. Special focus was placed on working in sensitive environments such as healthcare and social support. ECCQ expressed gratitude to Centacare FNQ for hosting and facilitating dialogue on interpreter workforce development and cultural competency.
Between January and April,
ECCQ also partnered with the Australian Electoral Commission to deliver voter education sessions in seven community languages—Arabic, Cantonese, Italian, Mandarin, Punjabi, Tagalog, and Vietnamese. Led by ECCQ’s John Bosco and coordinated by Mumtaza Mazher, the project saw strong engagement across diverse cultural communities, ensuring better access to democratic participation. As part of Queensland Youth Week, ECCQ’s Youth Ethnic Network (YEN) kickstarted the year with
“From Resume to Reality,” a dynamic forum designed to inspire young multicultural Queenslanders. The event featured stories of resilience and success from emerging leaders. Additionally, in collaboration with the Banyamulenge Youth Culture (BYC), YEN held a youth empowerment workshop focused on positive decision-making, further encouraging confidence and leadership in the next generation. Through health, language access, civic education, and youth leadership, ECCQ continues to demonstrate its commitment to inclusive and culturally responsive community development across the state.
FICQ joins ANZAC Day parade to honour Indian soldiers’ legacy
Brisbane, April 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) participated in the ANZAC Day Parade, joining members of
the India Australia War Memorial Association in paying tribute to those who served and sacrificed for freedom. Representing the wider Indian diaspora, FICQ’s participation
aimed not only to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces but also to raise greater awareness of the significant role played by Indian soldiers during World Wars I and
II — particularly their contribution to the ANZAC legacy. Walking alongside fellow Queenslanders in solemn remembrance, FICQ members paid their respects and stood
in solidarity, reflecting on the values of courage, mateship, and resilience that continue to unite all Australians.
Multicultural Australia partners with QPS to strengthen cultural capability in policing
Brisbane, April 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
In an important step towards fostering inclusive and culturally responsive policing, Multicultural Australia is working closely with the Queensland Police Service (QPS) to build cultural capability across the force. The initiative aims to equip police officers with the tools and understanding needed to serve Queensland’s diverse
communities more effectively. Police officers play a vital role on the frontlines of community safety, tasked with protecting life and property, preserving peace, and responding to and preventing crime. As part of QPS’s rigorous recruit training program, Multicultural Australia delivers specialised Cultural Capability Training to new recruits. This training is designed to develop officers who are not only ethical, efficient,
and effective, but also attuned to the cultural needs and lived experiences of the communities they serve. The training helps officers improve cross-cultural communication, increase awareness of diverse community dynamics, and apply culturally appropriate approaches in day-to-day policing. Multicultural Australia also collaborates with QPS leaders to tailor training modules and develop case studies that
reflect real-world scenarios and challenges relevant to officers in the field.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening community trust, reducing barriers, and ensuring equitable treatment for all Queenslanders—regardless of cultural background.
FICQ co-hosts historic ANZAC Day commemoration dinner honouring Indian soldiers
Brisbane, April 27 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ), under the leadership of president Dr Preethi Suraj, recently co-hosted a special ANZAC Day Commemoration Dinner in collaboration with the Consulate General of India,
Brisbane, with support from the Indian Soldier War Memorial Organisation.
For over 27 years, FICQ has been a driving force in uniting the Indian diaspora in Queensland.
This dinner marked a historic moment, being the first time an event of its kind was hosted by the Indian community in
Queensland. It served not only to commemorate ANZAC Day but also to highlight the significant contributions of Indian soldiers during World Wars I and II, especially their role at Gallipoli and their connection to the ANZAC legacy.
Consul General Neetu Bogatiya and other distinguished speakers
paid tribute to the bravery, sacrifice, and brotherhood displayed by Indian soldiers, sharing powerful stories that deserve greater recognition within Australian history. FICQ reaffirmed its commitment to continuing partnerships with community organisations and veterans’ groups to ensure
that the contributions of Indian soldiers are acknowledged, preserved, and taught to future generations. The spirit of ANZAC, they emphasized, lives on not just in ceremonies but through shared remembrance and ongoing dialogue.
FICQ engages in dialogue with Minister Fiona Simpson
Women’s economic security & multicultural inclusion discussed
Brisbane, April 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Federation of Indian Communities of Queensland (FICQ) recently hosted a significant meeting with Fiona Simpson
MP, Queensland’s Minister for Women and Women’s Economic Security, Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, and Minister for Multiculturalism.
The dialogue focused on a broad range of issues affecting women, Indigenous populations, and multicultural communities across the state. FICQ committee members and Minister Simpson
shared insights and explored potential collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s economic opportunities and fostering greater inclusivity in Queensland’s diverse society. The meeting served as a platform for productive exchanges,
reinforcing the commitment of both the government and community leaders to work together toward common goals of equity, empowerment, and social cohesion. FICQ representatives praised the minister’s openness and expressed optimism about building ongoing partnerships to support community-driven progress.
MCCGC’s Mosaic Crafting workshop inspires mindfulness and creativity for women
Brisbane, May 7 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) recently hosted a heartwarming Mosaic Crafting for Mindfulness workshop, bringing together 12 women for a creative and empowering experience focused on mental wellbeing.
Held as part of MCCGC’s ongoing commitment to community
wellness, the workshop encouraged participants to explore mosaic art while practicing mindfulness meditation. The session offered a calming environment where women could express themselves, reconnect with their inner selves, and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hands-on creativity. The response from participants was overwhelmingly positive.
One attendee shared, “It makes my day wonderful. I really loved this workshop, and I am waiting for it every month. I cannot wait to see everyone from your organisation.”
Another participant praised the welcoming environment, saying, “Great activity and fun! Everyone was very supportive and welcoming. The materials were very well organised.”
For many, it was also a moment of meaningful connection. “Had a wonderful time. The ladies were friendly and professional. I look forward to the next session,” said another.
With the success of this workshop, MCCGC continues to foster community connection, self-expression, and mental wellbeing through inclusive, creative programs that leave lasting impressions on participants.
Indian soldiers honoured at ANZAC Day in WA ceremonies
Perth, April 29 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
In a historic moment of remembrance, Indian soldiers who fought in Gallipoli during the First World War were officially honoured for the first time at ANZAC Day ceremonies in Western Australia.
The Acting Consul General of India paid tribute at the dawn service held at Kings Park, Perth, and later at the Commemorative Service in Mandurah, marking a significant step in acknowledging the contributions of Indian
troops in the ANZAC legacy.
Adding to the solemnity of the occasion, the Indian Veterans Contingent and the Sikh Ex-Servicemen Contingent proudly participated in the ANZAC Day Parade in Perth. Their presence paid homage to
the Indian soldiers who served bravely alongside Australian and New Zealand forces during the Gallipoli campaign of 1915.
The WA Sikh Band also took part in the parade, lending a musical tribute that resonated with the spirit of unity, sacrifice, and
shared history.
The recognition of Indian soldiers at ANZAC Day has been widely welcomed by the Indian diaspora and veterans' communities, with many hoping this becomes a regular feature in future commemorations.
MCCGC celebrates cultural diversity, digital literacy & community wellness
Canberra, April 22 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) has hosted a series of vibrant and meaningful events throughout April, showcasing its ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering the region’s diverse communities.
From festive lunches and emotional wellness workshops to digital training and visa information sessions, MCCGC’s recent initiatives have brought together individuals from a wide range of cultural backgrounds in celebration of diversity, learning, and connection.
On April 3, students from MCCGC’s Certificate III in
Individual Support course came together with Guess Education and MCCGC’s Employment and Training team for a multicultural lunch, where each participant brought a dish from their culture. The celebration featured traditional dances, heartfelt speeches, and reflections from students on their learning journey, creating a memorable day of unity and joy. In the spirit of emotional wellbeing, MCCGC’s Community Pathway Connector team partnered with Brahma Kumaris to host a transformative workshop based on Mike George’s book Don’t Get Mad, Get Wise. Led by Peter Clark, the session explored emotional awareness and offered
tools for responding wisely in difficult situations.
Digital inclusion also took centre stage through the Digital Sisters workshop, where settlement clients gained essential skills for online safety and connectivity. With the help of language support workers, participants received personalised guidance and training in their own languages.
Harmony Week was marked with a special multicultural lunch hosted by the Coffee, English and Friends Group in Palm Beach. Students from across the globe— including Peru, Syria, Chile, and Australia—shared traditional dishes and stories, deepening their cultural appreciation and
friendships.
MCCGC also empowered women through creativity in the Exploring Self Through Art workshop, where participants engaged in expressive drawing to reconnect with themselves in a safe and supportive space. At a well-attended Migration Pathway workshop, over 50 community members gained practical advice from experts on skilled and family visas, as well as English language test requirements, thanks to engaging presentations from migration agent Ben Naday and IELTS/PTE specialist Michele Sanders.
Community leaders Kyzzy and Maria Camila from MCCGC’s Employment and Training
team were also recognised for their exceptional service at the Latino Women’s Awards, a proud moment for the organisation. Meanwhile, MCCGC’s Chinese Club at the Cura Wellness Centre continued to offer seniors a lively mix of exercise, digital learning, games, and music—creating a welcoming environment to reduce loneliness and promote mental wellbeing.
With support from the Queensland Government and the Multicultural Seniors Program, MCCGC remains a pillar of inclusion and engagement, uplifting communities across the Gold Coast through connection, compassion, and celebration.
Source: MCCGC April Newsletter
Palm Beach English students explore Anzac Day traditions and symbols
Brisbane, April 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk)
Students from the Palm Beach English class, run by Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC), recently took part in a heartfelt lesson on Anzac Day and its rich symbolism. The class explored the story behind the iconic red poppies—among the first plants to bloom on the Western Front during World War I—and their significance as a symbol of remembrance for those who served and sacrificed in war. In a culturally engaging session, the students learned not only about poppies but also other meaningful traditions associated with Anzac Day:
Dawn Service – a solemn event marking the time of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli.
Anzac Biscuits – sent by wives to soldiers due to their long shelf life.
Parades – honouring both veterans and active service members.
Rosemary – worn on the day, symbolising remembrance and found growing wild in Gallipoli.
The session was a reminder that language learning is deeply intertwined with cultural understanding. For MCCGC’s students, it was a chance to not only build vocabulary but to also connect with the values and history of Australia in a meaningful way.
PM Modi congratulates Anthony Albanese on re-election as Australian PM
New Delhi, May 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday congratulated Anthony Albanese on being re-elected as the Prime Minister of Australia as well as his "resounding victory" in the general election.
PM Modi also said that he was looking forward to working together with Albanese to further boost the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and to advance the shared vision between the two countries for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Taking to Social media platform X, PM Modi wrote: "Congratulations @AlboMP on your resounding victory and re-election as Prime Minister of Australia! This emphatic
mandate indicates the enduring faith of the Australian people in your leadership. I look forward to working together to further deepen the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and advance our shared vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific."
Albanese claimed victory in the polls earlier on Saturday. In a post on X, he said, "Thank you, Australia."
Anthony Albanese has become the first Australian Prime Minister to win a second consecutive three-year term in 21 years.
Albanese won the country's federal election and is all set to retain his majority government as his centre-left Labour Party swept the polls, local media reported.
Albanese's return to office is historic as this made him the first Australian Prime Minister to win a second term since 2004. The incumbent Prime Minister
walked into the election day, expressing confidence in his party's return to power with a majority, having performed better than Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, during the five-week campaign. Meanwhile, Albanese addressing supporters in Sydney, struck a defiant and independent tone in his victory speech.
"Australians have chosen to face global challenges the Australian way, looking after each other while building for the future," he said.
"We do not need to beg or borrow or copy from anywhere else. We do not seek our inspiration overseas. We find it right here in our values and in our people."
His center-left Labor Party appears to have increased its majority in the 151-member House of Representatives, defying the historical trend of Australian governments losing seats in a second term. If confirmed, it would bolster Albanese's ability to pass key legislation.
Relationship between Australia and India ‘never been stronger’, says Albanese after speaking with PM Modi
Canberra, May 6 (IANS)
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday said that the relationship between Australia and India has never been stronger and said that he is looking forward to working with Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the coming years to build a prosperous future for the region.
Earlier in the day, PM Modi had dialled Albanese, congratulating him on his party's landslide victory in Saturday's General Election.
"Thank you for the call Prime Minister Narendra Modi and for your warm congratulations. The
relationship between Australia and India has never been stronger. I look forward to working with you over the coming years to build a prosperous future for our region," Albanese said in a post on X.
During the telephone conversation, Prime Minister Modi congratulated Albanese on his historic re-election as the 32nd Prime Minister of Australia. "Spoke with my friend Anthony Albanese to personally congratulate him on his party’s historic victory. We agreed to work together with renewed vigour to advance the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore new areas of cooperation," PM Modi posted on X after the phone call.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both Prime Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) between the two countries. They noted that in its five years, the CSP has seen
robust cooperation developing across a diverse range of sectors. They stressed on the role played by the vibrant Indian origin diaspora in cementing bilateral ties.
The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global matters of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to working together in promoting a free, open, stable, rules-based and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
"Prime Minister invited PM Albanese to visit India including for the Annual Summit and the QUAD Summit to be hosted in India later in the year. The leaders agreed to remain in touch," the MEA stated.
PM Modi had also congratulated Albanese on Saturday immediately after Labor's resounding win which saw the party bagging a haul of 92 lower house seats, only the third time in the history of the country that a party has won more than 90 seats.
Dalai Lama greets Australian PM Albanese for winning second term
"It has been a privilege for me to have been able to visit Australia several times over the years," the
Lama wrote in a letter to Albanese.
"The friendship and affection that Australian brothers and
sisters have shown me have touched me deeply. I have also been encouraged by their enthusiasm and interest in my efforts to promote the human values of loving kindness, compassion, a sense of oneness of humanity and closer inter-religious harmony. I take this opportunity to express my deep gratitude to the Australian government and its people for their interest in and support for the Tibetan people’s freedom and dignity. I wish you every success in meeting the challenges that lie ahead in fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of the Australian people," he said.
The Dalai Lama ended his letter by offering his prayers and good wishes.
Left-leaning PM Albanese claimed victory in the general
PM Anthony Albanese’s Labor Party wins landslide victory in Australian election
Canberra, May 4 (IANS) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's centre-left Labor Party has won a second term in power in Australia's federal election. Labor Party on Saturday night retained power in a landslide election victory that is set to deliver the party its most seats in the lower house of the federal parliament, where the government is formed, in history, according to projections from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).
It makes Albanese the first leader of either major party to win consecutive elections since 2004, Xinhua news agency reported.
Delivering his victory speech at a Labor event in his native Sydney, Albanese described serving as Prime Minister as the "greatest honour" of his life.
"Australians have chosen to face global challenges the Australian way, looking after each other while building for the future," he said.
Albanese pledged to "govern for all Australians" and said that the re-elected government would spend "every day" of the next three years repaying voters' trust.
"We take out this task with new hope, new confidence and new determination. Together we are turning a corner and together we will make our way forward," he said.
"This is a time of profound opportunity for our nation. We have everything we need to seize this moment and make it our own, but we must do it together."
As of 10:45 p.m. local time, the ABC projected that Labor Party was likely to win at least 87 of the 150 seats in the lower house of the 48th Parliament, surpassing
the party's record-high of the 86 seats it won in the 1986 election. The official count conducted by the Australian Electoral Commission put Labor ahead of the conservative Coalition of the Liberal and National Parties 56.4-43.6 on a two-party basis as of Saturday night, with voters swinging towards the government across the country.
Among the seats won by Labor was that of Dickson in Brisbane's north, which had been held by Opposition leader Peter Dutton since 2001.
It makes Dutton the first Opposition leader to lose his seat at a federal election in Australian history.
The ABC said that the opposition Coalition was likely to win at least 39 lower house seats, with 12 going to minor parties and Independents and the remaining 12 still in doubt.
Addressing supporters at an election night event in Brisbane earlier, Dutton said that he had called Albanese to concede defeat.
"We didn't do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious tonight, and I accept full responsibility," he added. Dutton's defeat in Dickson means that members of the Liberal Party, the senior partner in the coalition, will have to elect a new party leader to serve as the Opposition leader in the 48th Parliament.
On Saturday, polls opened at more than 7,000 locations across Australia, with voters set to decide if Albanese's centre-left Labor Party will govern for a second term or if the conservative Coalition of the Liberal and National Parties, led by Dutton, will win power.
Voting in the election is mandatory for all Australian citizens aged 18 years and over who are registered on the electoral roll maintained by the Australian Electoral Commission, with those who fail to do so facing small administrative fines.
Study finds everyday habits boost mental well-being
election on Saturday. He vowed to steer the nation through global uncertainty.
"Couldn't do this without the support of my incredible local community in Sydney’s Inner West. Grayndler, thank you for everything. We’ll keep working every day to make you proud," PM Albanese wrote on X.
Opposition leader Peter Dutton conceded defeat and had called Prime Minister Albanese to congratulate him on the win.
"We didn't do well enough during this campaign, that much is obvious tonight, and I accept full responsibility for that," Dutton said. There is no indication at this stage whether he will form a majority government or need to rely on minor parties and independents.
Sydney, May 5 (IANS) Simple, everyday behaviours like chatting with friends, spending time in nature, and mentally engaging activities can significantly improve mental health, according to research.
The study, which surveyed over 600 adults in Western Australia, found that people who engaged in daily conversations with others scored 10 points higher on a standard mental well-being scale than those who rarely did, Xinhua news agency reported.
Daily exposure to nature was linked to a five-point increase, while regular social catchups, physical activity, spiritual practice, and helping others also contributed to improved
mental well-being, according to Australia's Curtin University researchers.
The findings, published in the British journal of SSM-Mental Health, highlight the power of accessible, low-cost actions in maintaining mental wellness, said the study's lead researcher, Prof. Christina Pollard from Curtin's School of Population Health.
"These aren't expensive programmes or clinical interventions -- they're behaviours that are already part of many people's lives and can be easily encouraged through public health messaging," Pollard said.
"Regular connection with others, even a daily chat, can make a measurable difference to how people feel. Similarly, spending time outdoors or doing something that requires thinking and concentrating, like doing crosswords, reading, or learning a new language, provides an important mental reset," she said.
Dharamsala, May 4 (IANS) Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Sunday congratulated Anthony Albanese on his re-election as Prime Minister following his party's victory in the Australian parliamentary elections.
Dalai
OUR TAKE
Remembering the Holocaust
The UN Security Council must curb Pakistan’s state-supported terrorism
The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) exists to safeguard global peace and security. However, its credibility is increasingly being questioned as it hesitates to take firm action against nations that enable terrorism. Among the most pressing examples is Pakistan, a country whose ongoing support and tolerance for terror groups within its borders poses a long-standing threat to regional stability and international security.
Pakistan’s links to terrorism are well-documented. For years, extremist organisations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), and the Haqqani Network have operated with relative freedom in the country. Many of these groups have direct or indirect ties to elements within Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies, particularly the InterServices Intelligence (ISI). These organisations have orchestrated violent attacks across South Asia—from the Mumbai terror attacks of 2008 to the Pulwama suicide bombing in 2019. Yet, despite strong evidence and global condemnation, Pakistan has largely escaped serious consequences.
The international community has made attempts to pressure Islamabad. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which monitors terrorist financing, placed Pakistan on its grey list for multiple years due to inadequate efforts to curb terror funding. Though it was eventually removed from the list in 2022, questions remain about the genuine effectiveness of its counter-terrorism measures. Banned organisations continue to operate under different names, and notorious individuals remain at large without meaningful prosecution.
This issue is not just South Asia’s burden. In today’s interconnected world, terror networks are not limited by geography. The ideology and operations of terrorist groups can inspire violence across continents. When a state like Pakistan shelters and aids extremist groups as part of a strategic policy, it creates a breeding ground for instability far beyond its own borders.
India, as Pakistan’s immediate neighbour, has endured decades of suffering due to cross-border terrorism. Pakistan has consistently used extremist proxies to pursue political objectives in Kashmir and elsewhere. These activities violate basic principles of international relations and severely undermine the norms the UN stands for—sovereignty, peace, and diplomatic resolution of conflicts.
The Security Council, entrusted with protecting peace, has tools at its disposal to address this threat but has shown reluctance
PM Albanese must now strengthen Australia’s multicultural foundation
to use them effectively.
Geopolitical alliances and the power of veto among permanent members—particularly China’s repeated blocking of terror-related sanctions—have prevented consistent and forceful actions against Pakistanbased terror operatives. This selective enforcement damages the Council’s reputation and weakens the global fight against terrorism.
What is needed is not just symbolic condemnations or temporary watchlists. The UNSC must adopt a more assertive stance. First, it should insist on transparent investigations into Pakistan’s links to terror outfits. Second, specific sanctions should be imposed on individuals and organisations proven to be involved in terrorist activity. Third, Islamabad must be required to dismantle terror infrastructure in a verifiable and time-bound manner—not just make superficial declarations.
Additionally, the UNSC must ensure no country provides diplomatic protection to those supporting terrorism. The repeated blocking of sanctions on known extremists due to political interests undermines the very purpose of the United Nations. When certain countries shield offenders from international action, they enable the continuation of violence and instability.
Pakistan often presents itself as a victim of terrorism, and while it has indeed faced domestic attacks, this does not excuse its duplicity. A nation cannot claim to fight some terrorist groups while backing others for strategic gains. This double standard has led not only to regional unrest but also internal volatility that endangers its own citizens.
If the UNSC fails to act decisively, it risks enabling further violence. Terrorism does not respect borders. Delays and diplomatic inaction only embolden those who seek to spread extremist ideologies. The time has come for the Security Council to live up to its mandate and apply pressure on Pakistan to abandon its use of terrorism as a state policy. Holding Pakistan accountable is not about punishing a nation—it is about defending peace, justice, and international order. If the world is serious about eradicating terrorism, it must stop turning a blind eye to those who enable it. The people of South Asia—and indeed, the world—deserve a future free from the fear of terror. The UN Security Council must rise to the occasion.
Following the recent federal election victory, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has not only retained political power but also renewed the promise of a more inclusive, united Australia. This is a critical juncture for the nation—a moment that demands tangible support for multicultural communities that have long enriched the social, economic, and cultural fabric of Australia. The Albanese government has a clear opportunity to move beyond rhetoric and deliver meaningful reforms that strengthen the foundations of our multicultural society. Australia has been shaped by waves of migration that span continents, histories, and cultures. Almost half of its population is either born overseas or has a parent who was. This reality is no longer peripheral—it lies at the core of what it means to be Australian today. But the success of multiculturalism cannot be taken for granted. For it to flourish, it needs active support in policy, fair representation in institutions, and consistent investment in community development. Too often, multicultural Australians are applauded during symbolic celebrations like Harmony Week, but are under-supported throughout the year when it comes to real issues such as employment, education, health care, and security.
Prime Minister Albanese campaigned on values of fairness, opportunity, and inclusion. With this renewed mandate, his government must now channel those ideals into strategic action, particularly for communities that have been historically underserved. A genuine national effort is needed to build trust, ensure equitable participation, and respond to the pressing concerns of multicultural Australians. Their challenges are not isolated—they are embedded in the broader national context and addressing them will uplift the entire country.
A key reason to prioritise multicultural engagement lies in the pursuit of national unity in an increasingly diverse society. The face of Australia is rapidly evolving. Strengthening connections with cultural communities through properly resourced programs, accessible services, and representative leadership can prevent divisions and strengthen civic trust. When people feel included and heard, they are more likely to contribute positively and feel a genuine sense of belonging. Equally, there is a powerful economic argument. Migrant communities are essential contributors to the Australian economy. From running small businesses to playing vital roles in health, hospitality, construction, and academia, these communities drive innovation and productivity. However, many still face roadblocks such as non-recognition of overseas qualifications, language barriers in employment services, and systemic bias. Removing these obstacles would unleash immense economic potential, increase workforce participation, and create a more equitable
economy. The COVID-19 pandemic laid bare the vulnerabilities faced by multicultural groups. Many were disproportionately affected due to gaps in public health communication, lack of culturally appropriate services, and economic precarity. In some cases, migrants and refugees found themselves without adequate support or information. Building stronger, more resilient communities in the post-pandemic era requires better infrastructure—both physical and social—alongside support systems that are designed with cultural sensitivity at their core. One of the more urgent concerns is the under-representation of multicultural Australians in leadership and decision-making positions. While our cities and suburbs reflect a wide range of cultures and languages, this diversity is not mirrored in federal or state parliaments, government boards, or senior public service roles. Political representation must go beyond tokenism. It is essential that diverse voices are not just heard but given the power to shape policy. A truly healthy democracy thrives on inclusion and shared ownership of national decision-making.
Another critical priority is the fight against racism and discrimination, which have surged in recent years, particularly during the pandemic. Incidents of anti-Asian abuse, Islamophobia, and racially motivated attacks have created an atmosphere of fear and exclusion in many communities.
The Albanese government must take the lead in addressing these issues—strengthening anti-racism education, updating legislation where needed, and funding programs that promote
Support for multicultural media outlets is also vital. These platforms bridge the gap between government communication and community understanding, particularly in languages other than English. They played a vital role during the pandemic and deserve sustainable funding and partnership.
Further, the government should implement clear representation targets across public institutions. This would help in normalising diversity in the public eye and encourage younger generations from migrant backgrounds to step into leadership roles with confidence. Employment programs need to be tailored to the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse communities, with a focus on fairness, training, and long-term opportunities. And finally, settlement services for new arrivals must go beyond the basics. They should actively support integration, mental health, and the needs of women and youth, while helping migrants navigate the Australian system more easily.
It is also time for immigration and visa policies to reflect fairness and humanity. Delays in family reunification, burdensome visa conditions, and prolonged uncertainty can cause emotional and economic distress. A more compassionate and efficient immigration system would reflect Australia’s values and better support the social cohesion of migrant families.
Prime Minister Albanese has often spoken about his upbringing and the values of equity and inclusion that shaped him. These values must now be made visible in how his government governs for Australia’s multicultural population. This is about legacy. A leader is remembered not
intercultural understanding. Combating prejudice is not just about community welfare; it is about maintaining the values of respect, fairness, and equality that underpin Australia’s democratic identity.
To make meaningful progress, the Albanese government should roll out a comprehensive national strategy for multicultural communities. This would include a senior minister specifically tasked with multicultural affairs and empowered to act on policy reform. Funding should be directed towards locally run community organisations that understand on-the-ground realities better than any bureaucracy can. Language and translation services must be expanded across healthcare, education, and legal settings to ensure that all Australians, regardless of their background, have equal access to essential services.
just for managing budgets and delivering infrastructure, but for defining the cultural and moral tone of a generation.
The Albanese government stands at a crossroads. It can either maintain the status quo with occasional symbolic gestures, or it can boldly reset the agenda by making multiculturalism a core national priority. Investing in Australia’s diversity is not a cost—it is a long-term gain. It means a more unified, prosperous, and confident country. The trust multicultural communities have placed in this government must be met with action, not platitudes.
Australia's future is multicultural. Strengthening that future requires leadership, vision, and the political will to act. Prime Minister Albanese now has the mandate—and the moment—to lead the way.
South Africa calls for worldwide cooperation to address food insecurity
Johannesberg, April 24 (IANS)
Countries worldwide have to work together to address food insecurity, climate volatility, and systemic exclusion, which continue to threaten the stability of global food systems, said a South African official.
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen made the remarks on Wednesday in Durban at the G20 Agriculture Working Group meeting, running from Wednesday to Friday.
He said South Africa is facing rising input costs, unpredictable climate shocks, and constrained fiscal spaces.
Steenhuisen said the solution lies in technology and innovation transfer, particularly to bridge the gap between those who invent and those who need
access to those inventions.
Countries have to build systems that can feed the world without destroying the ecosystems that support them, he added.
Steenhuisen highlighted the urgent pressures that keep agricultural stakeholders awake at night, including the increasing frequency of devastating animal and plant diseases, the worsening impacts of climate change, persistent poverty and high levels of hunger.
"South Africa is committed to an approach that is inclusive, transparent, and focused on action. As the host country and chair of this working group, we are deeply committed to ensuring that this working group becomes a platform for collective ambition, practical collaboration, and long-term transformation," the Minister said.
The Minister said that no country could face these crises alone and called for strengthened global cooperation, built on the
principles of Ubuntu, which emphasise collective action, mutual respect and shared responsibility.
"South Africa's G20 Presidency has placed Ubuntu at the heart of its four agricultural priorities for 2025, reinforcing that only through unity can sustainable solutions be achieved," Steenhuisen added.
He highlighted four areas to attain this objective. The first is promoting inclusive market participation and food security through ensuring that no farmer, trader, or community is left behind.
"We believe that if we work together, we can build a future in which agriculture feeds not just stomachs, but economies, ecosystems, and futures."
Various working groups of the G20 have been holding meetings in South Africa since the country assumed the G20 presidency on December 1 last year.
South Africa will host the G20 Leaders' Summit in November.
6 killed in Kenyan capital in flash floods amid ongoing heavy rains
Nairobi, April 24 (IANS) At least six people have died in Kenya's capital, Nairobi, after flash floods triggered by heavy rainfall swept through several neighbourhoods over the past two days, authorities said.
Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah warned on Wednesday that the death toll could rise, as more people may have been swept away in the chaos that left behind a trail of destruction and damaged property, Xinhua news agency reported.
Among the victims were a mother and her two children who died in the Mathare slums when a boulder collapsed onto their home.
Preliminary investigations indicate that an overflowing river had undermined the soil, weakening the structure and causing the rock to fall onto the house while the family was asleep.
The incident prompted authorities to evacuate homes that are at risk from such disasters.
Three other deaths were reported, including one in the Mukuru Kwa Reuben slums after individuals were swept away by the floodwaters. One person was found dead after drowning in the Ngong River at Likoni Bridge in South B. The second body was retrieved from floodwaters along Jogoo Road.
In Dandora Phase 5, a young schoolgirl drowned while attempting to cross a flooded tributary of the Nairobi River using a makeshift bridge. A local rescuer who jumped in to save her also went missing. Dozens more have been reported missing, with teams actively
trying to locate flood victims.
Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja said that more than 60,000 people had been affected by the floods.
Floodwaters have inundated multiple homes, displacing more than 500 residents across the city.
The government has mobilised multiple teams for flood assistance, including teams dedicated to unclogging blocked drains to drain out the floodwaters.
In response to the floods, local authorities have begun evacuating residents whose homes are at risk of flooding or rockfalls.
The Kenya Meteorological Department has forecast continued heavy rains in the coming days and is urging residents to exercise extreme caution to prevent further loss of life.
Much of the country continues to experience rain, with forecasts suggesting that showers and thunderstorms could continue through the weekend.
Rwanda to introduce household testing strategy against malaria spread
said.
"This approach will help reduce malaria transmission among the population, and once transmission is lowered, it serves as a form of prevention," Epaphrodite Habanabakize, malaria prevention senior officer at the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), told national broadcaster Rwanda TV on Monday.
He said the strategy would initially be implemented in the capital, Kigali, before being expanded to other districts nationwide.
"If someone visits a health facility and is diagnosed with malaria, a health worker will visit their home to test all household members. Those who test positive but are not showing symptoms -- despite carrying the malaria parasite -- will still be given malaria medication," he explained.
"Even if you are not exhibiting symptoms, you may already be infected. Providing treatment in such cases helps prevent the onset of symptoms and further transmission," he said, noting that by treating asymptomatic cases, the strategy aims to
South African President calls for collective action to protect workers’ rights
Cape Town, May 5 (IANS)
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Monday reiterated the urgent need to drive inclusive economic growth and job creation, and to protect the rights and gains of workers across the country.
"At a time when our singular focus is on inclusive economic growth and job creation, we must continue to work together to improve the lives of every South African worker. Let us use the hard-won gains of workers to create new opportunities for all," Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter.
Reflecting on the country's history, Ramaphosa noted that under apartheid, black workers were systematically denied their rights and excluded from unionization.
While acknowledging the progress made since the introduction of employment equity legislation, he highlighted that
much more needs to be done to transform the racial composition of economic ownership, control, and management.
"That is why part of our G20 (Group of 20) presidency involves engagements with labor over the consolidation of worker rights. We have held fruitful discussions in this regard with the International Trade Union Confederation and others," he said.
The president pledged that South Africa will continue to use its progressive labor laws to correct the imbalances of the past and to ensure that these protections translate into tangible benefits for workers, Xinhua news agency reported.
He also called on businesses to take necessary measures to ensure that their workplaces reflect the spirit of the laws.
"Companies should go beyond compliance by actively fostering diversity and inclusion as envisaged in our constitution by addressing historical inequalities and creating opportunities for under-represented groups among their workers, such as women, the youth, and persons with disabilities," Ramaphosa added.
South Africa records eight per cent increase in cross-border travellers during Easter
Johannesburg, April 28 (IANS) A total of 1,057,063 people passed through South Africa's ports of entry during the 2025 Easter period, marking an eight per cent increase from the 2024 figures, a government official said on Monday.
break the chain of infection by preventing mosquitoes from biting infected individuals and spreading the parasite, Xinhua news agency reported.
Rwanda registered a significant reduction in malaria cases -- from 4.8 million to 620,000 cases between the 2016/2017 and 2023/2024 fiscal years.
Malaria-related deaths also dropped substantially during the same period. However, malaria remains a public health concern, with 802,428 simple malaria cases recorded in 2024, according to RBC data.
In 2020, Rwanda introduced drone-based larvicide spraying in swampy areas to complement indoor residual spraying efforts, targeting mosquito breeding grounds.
Michael Masiapato, Commissioner of the Border Management Authority (BMA), released the figures in Pretoria, the country's administrative capital, during a media briefing, noting that 974,729 individuals passed through the country's 71 ports of entry in 2024.
According to the commissioner, the authority managed to smoothly process the travelers during the period from April 15 to 24.
"This upward trend highlights the growing demand for cross-border travel in the post-Covid period. Despite the high volumes of travelers across all the three modalities of air, land, and sea, all measures and contingency plans implemented by the BMA and its stakeholders effectively managed the flow, ensuring operational stability and traveler safety throughout the entire Easter period," said Masiapato.
The Commissioner also noted that the BMA intercepted and arrested more than 6,000 people who attempted to enter the country without the required documents during the recent Easter holidays.
"Just in a period of 10 days, we have been able to intercept and apprehend a total of 6,253 persons who were attempting to either enter or exit South Africa illegally," he said, Xinhua news agency reported. "This is an increase of 61 per cent compared to the 2024 Easter interception of 3,841."
Masiapato attributed the rise in interceptions in the use of technology at some border gates, which included the use of drones.
"Out of these 6,253, about 4,795 were undocumented, about 1,055 were undesirable, and 403 were found to be inadmissible for various reasons, such as fraudulent visas, failure to produce a yellow fever certificate," he said.
Masiapato added that all those who were arrested while trying to enter the country illegally had their fingerprints taken, were declared undesirable for five years, and deported to their countries.
Kigali, April 22 (IANS) Rwanda will roll out a new malaria prevention strategy under which all members of a household will be tested if one person is diagnosed with the disease, a health official has
US military holds ‘nuclear weapon effects’ training in South Korea for first time
Seoul, April 23 (IANS) The US Army has held a training session in South Korea aimed at enhancing capabilities to operate effectively in a nuclear environment for the first time, the US Forces Korea (USFK) said on Wednesday.
The two-day course, held at South Korea's Strategic Command in Seoul between April 15-16, was seen as aimed at bolstering the allies' joint deterrence against North Korea's nuclear threats.
The training, led by the US Army Nuclear and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Agency (USANCA) tailored for the South Korean military, involved 13 personnel from South Korea,
including six Strategic Command staff members.
"This provision of Nuclear Weapon Effects Course - Korea highlights the vital role ROK forces play in advancing conventional-nuclear integration within the ROK-US Alliance," the USFK said in a release. ROK refers to the acronym of South Korea's formal name.
"The training content is also directly applicable to Alliance tabletop exercises and wargames focused on conventional-nuclear integration, and enhancing the combined joint force's strategic understanding," it said.
In August last year, the allies concluded their first-ever table-top exercise, "Iron Mace 24," on integrating nuclear and conventional capabilities, Yonhap news agency reported.
South Korea and the United States have been stepping up efforts to counter North Korea's evolving nuclear threats. In annual bilateral defence talks held in October last year, the
allies agreed to incorporate "realistic" scenarios, including a North Korean nuclear attack, in their future combined military exercises.
Over 28,500 US military personnel are stationed in the South Korea and work closely with the South Korea military and United Nations Command member countries to deter and defend against the threat from the North Korea and maintain the Korean Armistice Agreement.
To deter DPRK provocations and attacks, the US-South Korea Alliance maintains a strong defensive military posture which includes annual combined exercises, robust military sales, consistent reaffirmations of United States’ commitment to the security of the South Korea through an enduring combined command structure, and close, consultative relations between US and South Korea senior leadership on security issues.
Japan calls for global cooperation for nuclear disarmament towards 2026 UN conference
New York, April 29 (IANS) The Japanese Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi called on the world leaders for a "dialogue" and "cooperation" on nuclear disarmament towards an important United Nations conference in 2026.
He said this while delivering a statement on Monday (local time) at the General Debate of the Third Session of the Preparatory Committee for the 2026 Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), being held in New York.
"The cry that the tragedies of nuclear weapons must never be repeated and the call for achieving a 'world without nuclear weapons' are now louder than ever," Iwaya said.
According to Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Minister Iwaya introduced the
S. Korea’s
recommendations of the International Group of Eminent Persons for a World without Nuclear Weapons, which Japan launched back in 2022 as an "eloquent example" of how engaging in sincere dialogue and constructive discussion can create wisdom, even in this increasingly divided world.
"He appealed to all countries to fulfil their responsibility to find a common ground, to maintain and strengthen the NPT architecture, which is the only universal framework for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, and to advance toward the realisation of a world without nuclear weapons," the foreign ministry said in a statement.
Last month, the government faced criticism from atomic bomb survivors for not attending as an observer in a convention of signatories to a UN nuclear weapons ban treaty held in New York.
Iwaya's participation in this conference is aimed at establishing the efforts of the Japanese government to work towards promotion of nuclear disarmament, according to Japanese media, Kyodo News.
The report said that the Japanese
small satellite
government has aspired for a world free of nuclear weapons, as Japan is the only country to have suffered nuclear attacks in war.
The Japanese Foreign Ministry further affirmed that in his speech, Iwaya also discussed Nihon Hidankyo, Japan's leading group of atomic bomb survivors and winner of the 2024 Nobel Peace Prize.
He further pointed towards the work of the Hibakusha, the surviving victims of the atomic bombs that fell on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
"The Hibakusha have worked tirelessly, despite their deep emotional and psychological wounds and scars, to raise awareness of the devastation caused by nuclear weapons," the foreign minister said in the speech. The foreign ministry added that in the statement, Iwaya mentioned the "difficulties" the NPT regime is facing in light of North Korea's nuclear and missile development program and the "rapid buildup of nuclear capabilities in an opaque manner," adding that such moves run counter to the progress of nuclear disarmament or threaten nuclear non-proliferation.
to join US Artemis II moon exploration programme
AeroSpace Administration (KASA) and the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), signed in October last year, Yonhap news agency reported.
The K-RadCube, a Korean-made cube satellite, will be mounted on the Orion stage adapter, located between the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket and the crewed Orion spacecraft. The 19-kilogram satellite will monitor cosmic radiation and analyse its effects on astronauts as it passes through the Van Allen
Japan reports first outbreak of equine influenza since 2008
Tokyo, April 11 (IANS) Japan's Light Horse Quarantine Council has announced that equine influenza was confirmed at three horse breeding farms in Kumamoto prefecture. Preventive measures were currently underway, including isolating infected horses, suspending the movement of other horses, administering vaccines, and disinfecting facilities to contain the spread.
Equine influenza is a highly contagious viral respiratory disease that affects horses, donkeys, and other equine species.
The latest report of the disease marked the first outbreak of equine influenza in Japan since 2008, Xinhua news agency reported. A previous outbreak in 2007 led to the cancellation of central horse racing events. Equine influenza is highly infectious and spreads rapidly among naive horses. Outbreaks in susceptible horse populations are associated with considerable economic impacts. China, Japan, and Australia experienced devastating epidemics of equine
South
radiation belts, located more than 1,000 kilometers above Earth.
The Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute is leading the development project of the satellite in collaboration with a Korean space startup, Nara Space Technology.
KASA said it plans to deliver the satellite to NASA by July, ahead of its integration into the Orion spacecraft, which is scheduled to launch in April 2026.
influenza affecting tens of thousands of horses in 2007. Horses 1–5 years old are the most susceptible to infection, particularly when housed in large groups. Horses that are immunosuppressed for various reasons (traveling, training) may have an increased risk for infection and more severe disease.
Transmission is most commonly direct via inhalation of infective respiratory secretions from coughing horses. Indirect transmission via fomites (clothing, hands, shared water) should also be considered an important mechanism of disease transmission.
Shedding is longest in naive horses and lasts 7–10 days after the time of infection. Epidemics arise when one or more acutely infected horses are introduced into a susceptible group. Vaccinated horses can act as subclinical shedders. The epidemiologic outcome depends on the antigenic characteristics of the circulating virus and the immune status of a given population of horses at time of exposure.
Frequent natural exposure or regular vaccination may contribute to the extent of antigenic drift seen with specific strains of A/equine-2 virus in some parts of the world.
Korea, Australia vow stronger ties on energy, key minerals
Seoul, April 13 (IANS) South Korea and Australia have agreed to strengthen bilateral cooperation on key minerals and energy sectors as part of broader efforts to navigate deepening global economic uncertainties, Seoul's finance ministry said on Sunday.
The consensus was reached during a virtual meeting held Friday between South Korea's Finance Minister Choi Sangmok and Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers, according to the Ministry of Economy and Finance.
During the meeting, the two ministers shared the view that increasing uncertainty in the global trade environment could negatively impact their trade-dependent economies, reports Yonhap news agency.
To address such challenges, they emphasized the importance of mutually beneficial cooperation to ensure stable supply chains, particularly in the energy and critical minerals sectors, and agreed to pursue joint efforts through the Group of 20 (G20) and other multilateral cooperative frameworks.
"As long-standing close partners, South Korea and Australia have agreed to work together to overcome current challenges.
South Korea will continue to maintain close communication with Australia and other key
partner nations," the ministry said in a release.
Australia is rich in lithium, cobalt, liquefied natural gas and various other kinds of natural resources, and it has great potential in producing clean hydrogen and ammonia based on favorable weather conditions, the ministry said.
Meanwhile, volatility in South Korea's foreign exchange market surged to its highest level last week since the country extended trading hours for the won–U.S. dollar market, data showed on Sunday.
The weekly fluctuation in the won–dollar exchange rate reached 67.6 won during the second week of April, which marked the highest level since July 2024, when Seoul expanded FX trading hours from a 3:30 p.m. close to 9 a.m.–2 a.m. the following day.
When compared to records prior to the extended trading hours, last week's fluctuation was the largest since the second week of November 2022, when the weekly fluctuation reached 101 won.
The Korean won was quoted at 1,421 against the U.S. dollar in after-hours trading Friday, up 40 won from a week earlier. It marked the strongest level since Dec. 5.
The local currency dipped well below the 1,450-won level and has fluctuated near the mark since December amid heightened uncertainty stemming from U.S. tariff threats and a domestic political crisis triggered by then President Yoon Suk Yeol's shocking imposition of martial law.
Seoul, May 2 (IANS) South Korea's small satellite designed to measure space radiation will take part in the Artemis II mission, a US-led moon exploration programme, the Korean space agency said Friday. The mission is part of an agreement between the Korea
Russia to elevate Afghan diplomatic mission to ambassador level
Moscow, April 24 (IANS) Russia has announced that it will elevate the Afghan diplomatic mission in Moscow to ambassador level, a latest move to further strengthen bilateral relations with the Taliban authorities.
Moscow has taken steps to normalise relations with the Islamist Taliban administration since the group seized power in Afghanistan in 2021 after the withdrawal of US troops, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Russian Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday that Russian officials had held talks with Afghanistan's Foreign and Internal Ministers.
"Representatives of the Afghan leadership were informed that in support of the decision announced by the Russian
Supreme Court to suspend the ban on the activities of the Taliban movement, the Russian side has decided to raise the level of the Afghan diplomatic mission in Moscow to ambassador," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
Russian Special Presidential Envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov, has met with Afghan Foreign and Interior Ministers and informed them of the decision, the Ministry added.
The Russian side was represented by Zamir Kabulov, Russia’s presidential envoy for Afghanistan, and Dmitry Zhirnov, Moscow’s ambassador to Kabul, it said.
The Russian Foreign Ministry added that the Afghan side "expressed their deep gratitude for this step".
Russia sees a potential economic partner in the Taliban authorities, who praised Moscow for scrapping the "terrorism" label last week.
Taliban officials have visited Russia for high-profile events in recent years.
Russia's decision to suspend the ban on the group does not equal a formal recognition for the Taliban authorities, which are seeking international legitimacy.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Wednesday that "the new authorities in Kabul are a reality".
"We need to take this into account in order to carry out pragmatic, not ideologised policy," the Minister told journalists.
The Afghan government is not officially recognised by any country or world body and the United Nations refers to the administration as the "Taliban de facto authorities".
Last week, Russia removed Taliban from its list of terrorist organisations and suspended the ban on the activities of the Taliban in Russia.
The move came as Russian lawmakers voted in December last year to adopt a bill on introducing a mechanism to suspend bans on the activities of terror groups.
‘Terror will never win’, says former UK PM Rishi Sunak on terrorist attack in J&K’s Pahalgam
London, April 24 (IANS) Former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak on Wednesday condemned the "barbaric attack" in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, which he said had stolen the innocent lives of people and families seeking joy.
He affirmed that "Britain stands in solidarity with India in this moment of grief and sorrow" and added that "terror will never win".
Taking to social media platform X, Sunak wrote: "The barbaric attack in Pahalgam has stolen the lives of newlyweds, children, and families simply seeking joy. Our hearts break for them. To those mourning - know that the UK stands with you in sorrow and
solidarity. Terror will never win. We grieve with India."
The Peruvian Foreign Ministry wrote on X: "Peru expresses its strongest condemnation of the terrorist attack that occurred yesterday in the town of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead. It also expresses its deepest condolences to the victims' families."
The Ministry also added: "Peru calls on the international community to redouble efforts to combat and eradicate terrorism in all its forms and expresses its solidarity with the Indian government."
Margareta Cederfelt, a Swedish politician of the Moderate Party, wrote on X: "We, The Swedish-Indian Parliamentary Friendship Group, are deeply saddened and strongly condemn the brutal #TerroristAttack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. There can be no justification for such atrocities. We extend
our condolences to the victims' families #India."
In a decisive response to the deadly terror attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, India has taken a series of robust diplomatic measures to hold Pakistan accountable for its role in cross-border terrorism.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Wednesday evening discussed the implications of the attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, with several others sustaining injuries.
The CCS expressed deep condemnation of the attack and offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and wishing for the swift recovery of those injured. The attack, which targeted tourists in a popular destination, was attributed to Pakistan-backed terror groups, sources said.
Countries and organisations unite in condemning ghastly Pahalgam terror attack
New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)
Several Muslim nations and organisations continue to condemn and reject terrorism in all its forms and manifestations in the aftermath of the horrific terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
Based in Saudi Arabia, the Muslim World League (MWL) extended its condolences to the families of the victims of the heinous crime and wished a swift recovery for the injured.
The MWL Secretary General, Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa, had called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in
Jeddah during his visit to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday and strongly condemned the ghastly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and offered deepest condolences on the innocent lives lost.
The Foreign Ministry of Saudi Arabia also condemned the attack in the strongest terms.
"The Kingdom affirms its firm stance in rejecting all forms of violence, extremism, and targetting of civilians. The Kingdom also extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims, and the government and people of India," the ministry said in a statement.
Jordan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates affirmed the Kingdom's full support and solidarity with the "friendly nation" of India.
Macron, Albanese, Ramgoolam join global leaders in condemning Pahalgam terror attack
New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday extended his heartfelt condolences to the victims of the dastardly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam that has claimed dozens of lives.
"A heinous terrorist attack has struck India, claiming the lives of dozens of men and women from all walks of life. We share the profound sorrow of the victims' families, to whom I extend my heartfelt condolences," Macron posted on X.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot also took to social media and extended unwavering solidarity in the face of a barbaric attack.
“India is struck by a violent terrorist attack. Our thoughts are with the whole Nation mourning dozens of victims and with their families. In the face of such barbarity, our solidarity is unwavering," he said.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called PM
Narendra Modi and strongly condemned the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, expressing solidarity with the people of India in this hour of grief and extending all support in the fight against terrorism.
Albanese also took to social media and termed the terror attack an act of senseless violence that has shocked the world.
"This afternoon I have spoken to my friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi to offer my condolences on behalf of Australia following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir. The horrific loss of life of innocent civilians is an act of senseless violence which has shocked the world. Those responsible must be held to account. Australia and India are great friends and we stand with India at this difficult time," Albanese posted on X.
Prime Minister of Mauritius, Navin Ramgoolam also called PM Modi, condemning the cowardly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir and offering deepest condolences on the senseless killing of innocent people.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Ramgoolam expressed support and solidarity with the people of India in this hour of grief and stated that the two countries remain united in the fight against terror.
Vance calls PM Modi, says US ready to provide ‘all assistance’ in joint fight against terrorism
New Delhi, April 23 (IANS) US Vice-President, currently visiting India, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday afternoon to strongly condemn the Pahalgam terror attack and convey that the United States is ready to provide "all assistance" in the joint fight against terrorism.
The Ministry's official spokesperson, Ambassador Sufyan Al-Qudah said that the Kingdom rejects all forms of violence and terrorism that seek to destabilise security and stability.
The Taliban regime in Afghanistan also issued a strong statement on the terror attack, stating that such incidents affect regional security and stability.
"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan categorically condemns the recent attack on tourists in the Pahalgam region of Jammu and Kashmir, and expresses our condolences to the bereaved families. Such incidents undermine efforts to ensure regional security and stability,” the Ministry’s spokesperson remarked.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Vance, who is visiting Agra on Wednesday, strongly condemned the dastardly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir during his phone call with PM Modi.
"He conveyed his deepest condolences on the loss of lives and reiterated that the United States stands with the people of India in this difficult hour. He expressed that the United States is ready to provide all assistance in the joint fight against terrorism. PM thanked Vice President Vance and President Trump for their messages of support and solidarity," the MEA stated.
On Tuesday, Vance had taken to social media expressing his shock over the cowardly terror attack.
"Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India. Over the past few days, we have been overcome
with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack," he had posted on X.
The US Vice President and his family had called on Prime Minister Modi in New Delhi Monday evening ahead of the Principals' and delegation-level bilateral meeting between the two leaders.
This is Vance's first visit to India and he and the accompanying US delegation visited Jaipur on Tuesday before arriving in Agra on Wednesday. Wrapping up his two-nation visit to Italy and India, he is scheduled to return to Washington on April 24.
Earlier in the day, US President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Narendra Modi to extend US support and condolences over the terrorist strike that killed dozens of tourists.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi told US President Donald Trump that he was determined to punish those responsible for the Pahalgam terrorist outrage foreshadowing retaliatory actions that have become the hallmark of his response to terrorism.
"President Donald Trump called PM Narendra Modi and conveyed his deepest condolences at the loss of innocent lives in the terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. President Trump strongly condemned the terror attack and expressed full support to India to bring to justice the perpetrators of this heinous attack. India and the United States stand together in the fight against terror," MEA
80 per cent of post-quake building clearance completed in Myanmar’s Mandalay
Yangon, May 4 (IANS) The clearance of buildings damaged by the massive earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 is approximately 80 per cent complete in Mandalay and about 50 per cent complete in Sagaing, state media reported on Sunday. In Mandalay, major roads affected by the earthquake have been cleared of debris to prevent obstacles and ensure the safety of commuters, stateowned daily The Global New Light of Myanmar reported, citing the Myanmar Fire Brigade Headquarters. Meanwhile, in Sagaing, cleanup
operations continue with the use of heavy machinery to remove debris from large structures, including Buddhist learning centres and religious buildings located on higher ground, reports Xinhua news agency, citing The Global New Light of Myanmar.
These efforts have so far resulted in a 50 per cent completion rate, the report added.
As of Tuesday, 52 people have been rescued, and 103 bodies have been recovered from the collapsed Sky Villa condo in Mandalay region, local media had reported.
The Myanmar Rescue Team, Mandalay Region Fire Services Department, and the Mandalay Region government personnel have been carrying out rescue and clearance operations since March 28 at the collapsed site of Sky Villa, it added.
The earthquake has caused the deaths of 3,759 people and injuries to 5,107 others, with 114 individuals still reported missing nationwide as of Tuesday, according to Global New Light of Myanmar.
Meanwhile, atotal of 653 survivors have been rescued by emergency teams following the 7.7-magnitude earthquake, the state-owned daily Myanma Alinn reported on Friday.
Both local and international rescue teams carried out search and rescue operations. They were also able to retrieve 779 bodies as of Thursday, the report added.
Myanmar has experienced a total of 157 aftershocks following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28. The aftershocks ranged from magnitude 2.8 to 7.5, the department said.
Singapore’s ruling Action People’s Party wins 87 of 97 seats in parliamentary election
Singapore, May 4 (IANS)
Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) won 87 of the 97 seats in Parliament in Saturday's general election, according to local media reports. The country's main opposition Workers' Party (WP) secured 10 seats.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, whose party won the election, thanked supporters.
A total of 209 candidates from 11 political parties and coalitions, along with two independents, contested 97 elected seats in the Parliament.
This election marks the first time
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has led the PAP into a general election, after succeeding Lee Hsien Loong in May 2024, following Lee's two-decade tenure.
About 82 per cent of the voters, 2,164,593 people, have cast their ballots by 5 p.m., CNA reported, citing the election authorities. Sample counts showed 10 seats for the Workers' Party (WP), according to The Straits Times.
A total of 211 candidates from 11
political parties are competing for 97 seats in Parliament.
Earlier, the polling began at 8 a.m. and continued till 8 p.m.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong also cast his vote at his constituency at Evans Road in the Bukit Timah area in the city.
The ruling People's Action Party (PAP) is aiming to extend its uninterrupted hold on power since independence in 1965. Voting is compulsory in the city-state where average turnout since 2001 has reached 94.2 per cent, according to official data.
The PAP, which has won all 13 general elections since independence, is the only party fielding candidates in all constituencies.
Myanmar hit by 154 aftershocks following deadly 7.7-magnitude quake
Yangon, April 23 (IANS) A total of 154 aftershocks have hit Myanmar since a devastating earthquake struck the country on March 28, according to the country's Department of Meteorology and Hydrology on Wednesday. These tremors ranged in magnitude from 2.8 to 7.5, according to the department, Xinhua news agency reported.
As of Tuesday, the earthquake has claimed 3,759 lives and injured 5,107 others, with 114 people still reported missing nationwide, official data showed.
On April 17, India, under Operation Brahma, had sent an additional consignment of relief material that was handed over by Indian Ambassador to Myanmar Abhay Thakur to Mandalay Chief Minister Myo Aung in the presence of diaspora leaders of Mandalay and Sagaing.
The relief aid included RO water plant, genset, rice, noodles, cooking oil, atta, sugar, dal, salt,
MREs, blankets and medicines for the needy, the Embassy of India in Yangon stated.
India had launched Operation Brahma to provide necessary support, including Search and Rescue (SAR), humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and medical assistance, following the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28.
Under Operation Brahma, India was the first responder to the earthquake-hit Myanmar and has provided relief supplies of over 750 MT including essential medicines, foodgrain, readyto-eat meals, tents, blankets, gensets, rapidly deployable surgical and medical shelters, water sanitation and hygiene services, drinking water, essential clothing, prefabricated office/residential structures, etc. Further, humanitarian assistance consisting of an 80-member NDRF Heavy Urban Search and Rescue Specialists Team and a 127-member Indian Army field hospital team were also deployed. The supply of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief material to Myanmar demonstrates India's willingness
Philippines slams China for spreading disinformation on Sandy Cay
Manila, May 3 (IANS) The Philippines on Saturday slammed China for resorting to disinformation activities around Sandy Cay, emphasising that the area was an integral part of its territory.
"The alleged seizure of Pag-asa Cay 2 (Sandy Cay), an integral part of the Philippine national territory in the West Philippine Sea, was a clear example of the disinformation activities of the Chinese government, where it made it appear that China has effective control of the cay by displaying its flag and conducting waste collection," National Maritime Council (NMC) of the Philippines said in a statement. It further stated that the Chinese government, through its state-controlled media, is sowing disinformation to "mislead its people and the international community about the continuing illegality of its activities in the West Philippine Sea".
"The Philippines is firm in protecting its vast maritime domain, and is unwavering in fighting false allegations that detract from the country's lawful exercise of its sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction," the NMC added.
The maritime council accused China of degradation of the environment around Pag-asa Island and its cays. It stated that constant illegal swarming of Chinese vessels in the area and
the damaging impact of China's massive artificial island-building in Zamora Reef (Subi Reef), a low-tide elevation that forms part of the territorial sea of Pagasa Island and its cays, caused environmental damages," state media Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.
"The Philippines will consistently pursue peaceful means for resolving disputes and constructive approaches to managing differences, while also continuing its lawful and routine activities in the West Philippine Sea, consistent with its maritime entitlements under international law," the NMC said.
The Philippines claims that Sandy Cay falls within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), while China lays claim to the maritime feature, calling it Tiexian Jiao.
Recently, countering China's narrative, the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National PoliceMaritime Group conducted a routine visit to Sandy Cay and the surrounding waters of Cay 1 and Cay 3, PNA reported.
Earlier this week, the Philippines condemned the latest Chinese activities around Sandy Cay, emphasising that the area is part of Philippine territory and no Chinese provocation will change that.
Chinese personnel reportedly raised a Chinese flag and conducted inspection activities on Sandy Cay.
Speaker of the House of Representatives in the Philippines, Romualdez, termed the Chinese actions "desperate and cheap stunts" designed to mislead and bolster illegitimate claims.
to stand with the people of Myanmar and support through this difficult time, the Ministry of External Affairs maintained.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also expressed deep sorrow over the disaster and conveyed India's condolences directly to Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and Prime Minister of Myanmar, reaffirming India's commitment to assisting Myanmar during this crisis.
On April 4, Prime Minister Modi met Hlaing on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok and discussed the situation in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake in the country, including India's ongoing efforts under Operation Brahma to provide humanitarian aid, disaster relief, and medical assistance to Myanmar. The Senior General had expressed his gratitude for India's assistance efforts. The Prime Minister conveyed that, as the first responder, India stands with Myanmar in this time of crisis and is ready to deploy more material assistance and resources.
Philippines slams China for spreading disinformation on Sandy Cay
Phnom Penh, May 2 (IANS) With India's assistance, Cambodia on Friday declared the Botum Sakor district in Koh Kong as mine-free, ensuring the safety and sustainable development of the region.
"Towards a Mine-Free Future: India Supports Cambodia's Progress! With grant assistance from India, Botum Sakor District in Koh Kong has been declared mine-free—enabling safer land use, improved livelihoods, and sustainable development," the Embassy of India in Phnom Penh posted on X. India and the Cambodia Mine Action and Victims Assistance Authority (CMAA) had signed an agreement in 2023 for making Botum Sakor, Srae Ambel, Thma Bang districts, and Trapeang Rung Commune in Koh Kong province mine-free with a total Indian grant of $426,709.
The Indian assistance was
announced by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar during his visit to Cambodia in November 2022 during a meeting with then Cambodian Prime Minister Samdech Hun Sen. The agreement was signed by India's Ambassador to Cambodia and Ly Thuch, Senior Minister and First Vice-President of CMAA. Thuch, in his speech, appreciated India for its contribution in demining activities in Cambodia to boost the mine clearance work and help Cambodia achieve its goal of becoming a mine-free nation by 2025. He had mentioned that India has been assisting in making four villages in Koh Kong Province mine-free under the Quick Impact Project with a grant of USD$ 50,000. Thuch said that CMAA is looking forward to working with the Indian Embassy for the successful implementation of the grant assistance projects in Koh Kong. Earlier this month, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Mane called for global support to work towards the national goal of making Cambodia mine-free by 2030.
Ukraine reaffirms commitment to peace efforts led by US at London meeting, says Foreign Minister Sybiha
Kyiv, April 24 (IANS) Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has said that the Ukrainian delegation reaffirmed Kyiv's commitment to the peace efforts led by the US side during a meeting with European national security and foreign policy advisers in London.
"We reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to peace efforts led by US President Donald Trump and our willingness to move forward toward a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace," Sybiha said on Wednesday in a statement released by the Foreign Ministry. He described as "meaningful" the conversation between the Ukrainian delegation, which also included head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, and national security and foreign policy advisers from the UK, France and Germany, Xinhua news agency reported. Peace efforts were also the centrepiece of the meeting
between Sybiha, Umerov and their British counterparts -Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey, the statement said.
The Ukrainian team also held talks with US Special Envoy Keith Kellogg, with the parties making a "constructive exchange of views on the path to peace," according to the statement.
"Today's meetings helped coordinate positions and reaffirm our strong commitment to lasting peace and security not only in Ukraine, but throughout Europe and the transatlantic space," Sybiha noted.
"Ukraine wants the war to end more than anyone else in the world. We are committed to working together to achieve this goal."The London meeting, originally intended as a ministerial-level summit involving the US, the UK, Germany, France, and Ukraine, was notably downgraded after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff declined to participate.
Rubio pulled out after Ukraine submitted a document to European partners on April 22 declaring it would not enter talks on territorial issues until Russia
agrees to a "full and unconditional ceasefire".
Following the meetings in London, Ukrainian Presidential Office head Andriy Yermak reiterated Kyiv's position, saying, "An immediate, complete and unconditional ceasefire should be the first step towards the start of negotiations on achieving a just and lasting peace."
Yermak also emphasised that Ukraine would defend its "principled positions," which form the basis of its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Despite the absence of Rubio and Witkoff, the UK Foreign Ministry said "significant progress was made on reaching a common position," and that all parties reaffirmed support for US President Donald Trump's stated commitment to achieving a just and lasting peace.
The meeting followed a summit in Paris on April 17, where senior Trump administration officials outlined a controversial peace proposal to Ukrainian and European delegates.
The plan reportedly includes recognition of Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and a ban on Ukraine's NATO membership -- two central demands by the Kremlin.
Trump says Zelensky’s statement ‘very harmful to the peace negotiations with Russia’
Washington, April 24 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has slammed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying the Ukrainian leader's statement on Crimea is "very harmful to the Peace Negotiations with Russia". This time the Trump-Zelensky clash was over Crimea, with the US President convinced that the region should be considered as Russian territory, while Zelensky refused to agree with him, reiterating that Ukraine will stand firm on its core principles, Xinhua news agency reported.
Trump wrote on Wednesday in a post on Truth Social that "Nobody is asking Zelensky to recognise Crimea as Russian Territory but, if he wants Crimea, why didn't they fight for it eleven years ago when it was handed over to Russia without a shot being fired?"
"It's inflammatory statements like Zelensky's that makes it so difficult to settle this War. He has nothing to boast about," wrote Trump, adding that "The situation for Ukraine is dire -- He can have Peace or, he can fight for another three years before losing the whole Country."
As negotiators met for the latest round of talks in London, reports suggest that the US proposal that was laid out had two key points in agreement with Moscow's stand -- the first being Kyiv officially recognising Crimea as Russian territory, and the second -- that Ukraine can never become a NATO member.
Both these points were rejected by Ukraine, which infuriated President Trump, who had already threatened to withdraw the US from negotiations over Kyiv's obstinacy.
Trump chided the Ukrainian President for not agreeing with him about Crimea now being a part of Russia.
"Crimea was lost years ago and is not even a point of discussion," President Trump asserted.
Trump also noted that the statement made by Zelensky would do nothing but prolong the "killing field" and "nobody wants that!"
"We are very close to a Deal, but the man with 'no cards to play' should now, finally, GET IT DONE," he noted.
Zelensky said on Tuesday that Kyiv is prepared to engage in talks in any format once a potential ceasefire with Russia is established, the government-run Ukrinform news agency reported.
But he stressed that Ukraine will not legally recognise the occupation of Crimea by Russia as it contradicts the nation's Constitution.
The exchange led to President Trump scolding President Zelensky, saying that the US is trying to stop the killing in his country.
"We are very close to a deal" for peace, Trump said, putting the blame on the Ukrainian President for being stubborn, as talks seem to be heading for a stalemate.
Poland FM outlines 2025 foreign policy priorities
Warsaw, April 24 (IANS) Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski presented the government's foreign policy objectives for 2025 in an address to parliament, reaffirming Poland's commitment to European defence, the transatlantic alliance, and the preservation of international order.
Speaking before the Sejm, the lower house of Parliament, in the presence of President Andrzej Duda and Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Wednesday, Sikorski described the global situation as increasingly volatile.
"The world is becoming less and less predictable," he said, citing ongoing geopolitical conflicts, shifting power dynamics, and economic instability, Xinhua news agency reported.
He added that "Polish diplomacy must focus on reinforcing these institutions rather than questioning their legitimacy" -- a nod to domestic criticism of EU
12 injured in Russia’s airstrike on Kyiv
Kyiv, April 24 (IANS) At least 12 people were injured in Russia's airstrike on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv early Thursday morning, Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.
In a post shared on Telegram, Kyiv's military authorities confirmed the attack and urged citizens to take shelter immediately, citing damage in at least two districts, Xinhua news agency reported.
"Sviatoshynskyi district suffered the most from the enemy attack," said the Mayor on Telegram, adding that all the victims have been hospitalised.
Debris from intercepted projectiles damaged non-residential buildings in the central Shevchenkivskyi district and western Svyatoshynkyi district, and rescuers have headed to the scene, the Mayor added.
The noise of flying drones accompanied the missile strikes, raising concerns over a possible combined aerial assault.
City Mayor Klitschko later confirmed that a three-year-old child had been taken to the hospital following the attack.
The extent of the injuries has not been disclosed.
This marks the second major missile strike on Kyiv in April, following a previous attack on April 5, which left at least three
people wounded.
Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, Kyiv has faced intermittent but destructive missile barrages, targeting both military and civilian zones.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of staying in shelters during air raid alerts and avoiding outdoor activity during drone or missile warnings.
While no official death toll has been announced from Thursday's attack, the psychological and infrastructural toll continues to mount, with residents facing constant fear and uncertainty.
The renewed attack adds to growing concerns about a possible escalation in Russian military actions, especially as Ukrainian forces brace for counter-offensives in contested regions.
At least nine people were killed and 30 others injured on Wednesday in a Russian drone strike in the city of Marhanets in Ukraine's Dnipropetrovsk region, according to oblast governor Sergii Lysak.
Lysak wrote in a post on Telegram that a kamikaze drone hit a bus carrying workers of a local enterprise.
Ukraine's prosecutor general's office has launched an investigation into the attack.
There was no comment from Russia yet.
With the war now in its third year, the international community remains on edge, watching closely as Kyiv continues to endure relentless assaults.
Greek PM eyes third term, dismisses early elections talk
Athens, April 24 (IANS) Greek
Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis has reaffirmed his intention to seek a third term in office, contingent on securing continued public support.
In an interview with the "Direct" vidcast of online news provider protothema.gr, Mitsotakis on Wednesday dismissed speculation surrounding early elections or potential changes to the electoral law.
creditors.
Over the next four years, tax burdens were eased, and while the Covid-19 pandemic wiped out Greece's vital tourism revenues, the country has since bounced back strongly with growth of 8.3 per cent in 2021 and 5.9 per cent last year.
That was helped in part by more than 57 billion euros ($62 billion) dished out by the government to cushion the impact of the health crisis and inflation.
policies from the Opposition. Sikorski emphasised that the greatest danger facing Poland would be the fragmentation of the Western alliance. "We cannot afford illusions or inaction. We cannot afford to be alone," he said, underlining that Poland's future hinges on the strength of its international partnerships. Key priorities outlined in the speech included bolstering European and EU defence capacities, maintaining cooperation with the US, defending the global order based on the UN Charter, and fostering constructive relations with the Global South.
Looking ahead to his policy address at the Thessaloniki International Fair in September, the Prime Minister said the government's focus would be on delivering further tax relief for the middle class, Xinhua news agency reported.
He cited recent economic initiatives -- including rental subsidies and pension support -- as examples of his administration's reform-oriented approach.
Mitsotakis first assumed office in 2019 with a decisive majority and was re-elected in 2023.
That election was the first in the EU nation's post-bailout era, at a time when businesses and workers were ailing under the burden of heavy taxes imposed by Syriza to build a budget surplus demanded by international
Mitsotakis also had licence to spend more under the EU's more relaxed pandemic-era rules. He has played up Greece's newfound economic health in his re-election bid, saying his conservatives have cut 50 taxes while increasing national output by 29 billion euros and overseeing the largest infrastructure upgrades since 1975.
The message appeared to have gone down well with voters weary of Greece's debt years that were awash with job losses, rising payments and companies going bankrupt.
Although inflation remains a key concern for voters, Alexis Tsipras's of the leftist Syriza party call for wage hikes failed to garner momentum.
He remains for many the Prime Minister who nearly crashed Greece out of the euro, and the leader who reneged on a vow of abolishing austerity to sign the country on to more painful bailout terms.
Merz fails to secure majority in vote for German Chancellor
Berlin, May 6 (IANS) Friedrich Merz, the Christian Democratic Union's candidate for German Chancellor, failed to secure the required majority in Tuesday's Bundestag - Germany's Lower House of parliament - vote, falling six votes short of the 316 needed to be elected Chancellor. Multiple German media suggested that there won't be another round of voting Tuesday. Christian Democratic Union (CDU)/Christian Social Union (CSU) and center-left Social Democratic Party (SPD) signed a coalition agreement on Monday, paving the way for the formation of a new federal government. Under the coalition pact finalized in April after weeks of
negotiations, the parties pledged to enhance Germany's economic competitiveness, strengthen national defence, and tighten migration policies.
The CDU/CSU, unofficially the Union parties or the Union, is a conservative political alliance of two political parties in Germany.
The Bundestag, Germany's lower house of parliament, was supposed to elect Merz, leader of the CDU, as Chancellor on Tuesday. Once Merz would have been elected, his government could have taken office, ending the current administration led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. SPD's co-leader Lars Klingbeil was scheduled to take the post of Vice Chancellor.
According to SPD's announcement of key positions in the new cabinet on Monday, Klingbeil will also take the helm of the Finance Ministry. Boris Pistorius will be retaining his post as defence minister. Baerbel Bas, former president of the Bundestag, had been nominated as minister of
Labour and Social Affairs. Other nominations included 35-year-old Reem AlabaliRadovan as minister for Economic Cooperation and Development.
Speaking at a press conference before the signing on Monday, Merz said the coalition aims to advance Germany with reforms and investments. Highlighting the capabilities of the new government, Merz had vowed to implement reform from day one, build essential infrastructure, and make a strong contribution to Europe.
"I am very confident that starting tomorrow, we will succeed in governing our country with strength, planning, and trust," Merz said on Monday, Xinhua news agency reported.
At the press conference, Klingbeil said the new government will start its work swiftly to stimulate growth in Germany and attract future-oriented industries to Germany.
EU not to be pressured into unfair US tariff deal, says trade chief
Strasbourg, May 6 (IANS) The European Union (EU) doesn't feel pressured to yield to an imbalanced trade agreement with the United States, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security Maros Sefcovic said Tuesday at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France.
"We do not feel weak. We do not
feel under undue pressure to accept a deal which would not be fair for us," Sefcovic told the European Parliament, emphasising that the EU had already tested and put forward proposals to the United States.
"As you can imagine, it's not easy," he noted, adding that despite the EU's sincere efforts, the negotiations with the US may ultimately fail to reach a successful outcome.
The EU is currently subject to 25 percent US tariffs on steel, aluminum, and automobiles, along with 10 per cent reciprocal tariffs on most other exports.
The bloc has been preparing for the possible end of a 90-day
tariff truce, after which these levies could rise to 20 per cent when the pause expires on July 8.
Sefcovic reiterated that the EU is prepared to reintroduce rebalancing measures if negotiations fail,Xinhua news agency reported. "We are preparing for the possible and might-be-needed rebalancing," he said, referring to retaliatory tariffs the EU had initially suspended to allow room for talks.
Sefcovic also signaled that the EU may pursue legal action against US tariffs through the World Trade Organisation, describing the tariffs as "simply unjust, unfair, and in total breach of international commercial law."
Russia adds 21 British lawmakers to sanctions list
Moscow, April 23 (IANS)
Russia has imposed retaliatory sanctions against 21 British parliamentarians, the country's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday.
"In response to London's ongoing confrontational policies, which include efforts to demonise our country, fabricate many anti-Russian narratives with the aim to reduce Moscow's influence on the international stage, and continue funneling weapons to the neo-Nazi regime in Kiev, a decision has been made to include a number of members of the UK Parliament in the Russian stop list," said the statement,
which lists 21 lawmakers.
"Work to expand the Russian stop list will be continued," the Ministry said.
It said the decision was taken in response to London's "confrontational course," its efforts to fabricate anti-Russian narratives, undermine Moscow's international influence, and its continued supply of weapons to Ukraine, Xinhua news agency reported.
In response, Russia has added 21 British lawmakers to its "stop list," the Foreign Ministry said, adding that the officials will be banned from entering the country.
The anti-Russian sanctions imposed by Britain and aggressive rhetoric from British officials show that London is committed to open confrontation with Russia, it said.
The Foreign Ministry said that London's hostile statements undermine bilateral cooperation, adding that Moscow will closely monitor the situation and draw appropriate conclusions.
Poland advances plan for first nuclear power plant
Warsaw, April 28 (IANS) Polskie Elektrownie Jadrowe (PEJ), the state-owned company responsible for overseeing the construction of Poland's first nuclear power plant, signed a new Engineering Development Agreement (EDA) on Monday with the American consortium Westinghouse-Bechtel to advance the next phase of the project.
The EDA, which replaces the previous Engineering Service Contract that expired in April, covers detailed design work, the securing of administrative approvals, and the advancement of geological surveys at the Choczewo site in northern Poland.
Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who attended the signing ceremony alongside US Secretary of Energy Chris Wright, noted that key terms of the new agreement were renegotiated across 16 areas to strengthen investment security, Xinhua news agency reported.
"This initial investment has been secured through a new and improved agreement," Tusk said after the meeting.
He added that the deal had been renegotiated under his government -- which came into power in late 2023, after the nuclear plans had been announced -- so
that it was more beneficial to Poland.
"Thanks to modifications across 16 areas, this investment is becoming more secure, and the guarantees provide us with a sense of safety for this investment," Tusk said.
The EDA sets the framework for continued cooperation between PEJ and the consortium following the expiry of the current Engineering Service Contract. It covers design work, securing administrative decisions, licenses and permits, as well as additional geological studies at the project site in LubiatowoKopalino, northern Poland.
The two sides are also preparing to sign a construction contract, pending the European Commission's approval of a 60 billion zloty (€14 billion) government financing package earmarked for PEJ.
"I believe that this will also mark the beginning of many years of collaboration in this area between Poland and the US, and we will build more such nuclear reactors, both in Poland and in other countries across Europe, as we possess the appropriate skills, which Polish workers will gain through cooperation with American partners," US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. PEJ, the project investor and future operator, plans to use Westinghouse AP1000 reactor technology.
Construction of the plant is scheduled to begin in 2028, with the first reactor expected to become operational by 2035 and full integration into the national power grid planned for 2036.
EU to strengthen governance of Schengen border-free zone
According to the Ministry, Russophobia and the desire to destroy Russian statehood remain inherent elements of UK foreign policy, which is fully subordinated to the goal of inflicting as much damage as possible to Russian national interests.
"Hostile statements and unsubstantiated accusations coming from members of the UK Parliament, including public statements in favour of seizing Russian assets that are 'immobilised' in Western jurisdictions, not only condone London's hostile policies, but are also used by opponents of mutually respectful dialogue with Russia to undermine the foundation of bilateral cooperation," it said.
"The comprehensive nature of the anti-Russian sanctions imposed by the UK and hysterical statements by officials of that country, in which threats are interspersed with lies and outright rudeness in our address, indicate that London does not intend to step back from its choice in favour of open confrontation with Russia," the Ministry added.
Brussels, April 24 (IANS) The European Union (EU) is set to reinforce its Schengen border-free zone as previous efforts have resulted in a significant decline in irregular crossings in 2024, the European Commission said.
"Intensified EU efforts have led to a decline in irregular crossings at Schengen's external borders, with around 240,000 detections (in 2024) - the lowest since 2021," the report said on Wednesday. This also represents a 38 per cent drop in irregular crossings since 2023, Xinhua news agency reported.
The EU will continue to strengthen the political and operational governance of Schengen, accelerate the implementation of digitalisation to prevent security risks, enhance cooperation among law enforcement authorities, and deepen relations with partner countries to improve border protection.
It also plans to improve the effectiveness of measures to return those who do not have a legal right to stay in the EU, after
a nearly 12 per cent increase in returns of third-country nationals in 2024.
"Schengen will continue to evolve, adapt to new realities and respond to the shifting geopolitical landscape," the report said.
The Schengen area, which was created 40 years ago, covers a population of nearly 420 million people and includes 29 countries. These include most EU members and all members of the European Free Trade Association: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
However, in recent years, 10 Schengen countries have reintroduced temporary border controls at internal borders, claiming that this was necessary to curb illegal migration. According to the Commission, Schengen was "once again the world's most visited destination in 2024, welcoming more than half a billion visitors and driving economic growth across the Union".
The Schengen area is one of the pillars of the European project. Since its creation in 1995, when passport controls were abolished inside this zone, EU citizens have enjoyed the right to freedom of movement. This means that they can live, study, work and retire anywhere in the EU. Tourists and businesses also benefit from these rights.
Israel starts commemorating Holocaust victims with wreath-laying ceremony
Jerusalem, April 24 (IANS) Israel has started commemorating its annual Holocaust Martyrs' and Heroes' Remembrance Day with an official wreath-laying ceremony here at the country's Holocaust memorial Yad Vashem. The ceremony began at nightfall. Holocaust survivors lit six torches in memory of the six million Jews who died at the hands of Nazi Germany and its collaborators during World War II, Xinhua news agency reported. Addressing the gathering, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu drew a connection between the Holocaust and current geopolitical threats. He said that Israel would continue exerting "military pressure on Hamas," destroy all of its capabilities, and "prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons".
The ceremony saw remarks by
Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog, who noted the difficult commemoration as the country continues to fight a war and hostages are still held in Hamas captivity.
Released hostages sat in attendance at the ceremony as Herzog prayed for the return of those still captive and for the soldiers and their families who sacrificed in the fight on their behalf.
“This day, Holocaust Remembrance Day, is not only a day for looking backward. I speak here not only 80 years after the Holocaust but also a year and a half after the greatest massacre our people have endured since the Holocaust – when we are still wounded and bleeding, reeling and anxious," said Herzog. Remembrance activities will continue through Thursday.
At 10 a.m. local time, a nationwide two-minute siren will sound, bringing the country to a standstill in honour of the victims.
Other memorial events are
scheduled to take place in schools, workplaces, and public institutions across Israel.
Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics announced on Monday that there are about 120,000 Holocaust survivors and victims of anti-semitic persecution during World War II currently living in Israel, 62 per cent of which are women.
Netanyahu noted the successes of the military since the October 7 massacre, crippling Hezbollah and Hamas, and noting the fall of the Bashar al Assad regime in Syria. He threatened Iran with a similar fate if they continued down the path of nuclear weapons.
@No one will prevent us from defending ourselves," said Netanyahu, recalling the previous year's commemoration when Israel was threatened with arms embargoes.
"If we need to stand alone, we shall stand alone. If we need to fight with our fingernails, we shall fight with our fingernails, but we will not relent."
151 injured due to panic, jumping incidents in Istanbul’s earthquake: Governor’s office
Istanbul, April 23 (IANS) The Istanbul Governor's Office reported that 151 people were injured due to panic and incidents of jumping from heights during the 6.2-magnitude earthquake on Wednesday.
The injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in hospitals, and their conditions are not life-threatening, the office said, adding that no deaths were reported as of 3:30 p.m. local time, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Governor's office confirmed that no residential buildings across the city collapsed, except for one abandoned building in the Fatih district.
There have been no disruptions to energy supply, natural gas distribution, or drinking water and sewage infrastructure that
would impact daily life, and field assessments are ongoing, according to the office.
Many residents flocked to parks, school yards and other open areas to avoid being near buildings in case of collapse or subsequent earthquakes. Some people pitched tents in parks.
Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, at an event marking the National Sovereignty and Children's Day holiday, said: "Thank God, there does not seem to be any problems for now.
"May God protect our country and our people from all kinds of calamities, disasters, accidents and troubles."
The Turkish President received information about the earthquakes from the Interior Minister, Environment Minister, and Health Minister, as well as the head of AFAD and the Governor of Istanbul, according to the Communications Directorate.
The earthquake occurred at a depth of nearly 7 km (4.3 miles), and it lasted 13 seconds, said
Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya. Transport Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said initial inspections showed no damage to highways, airports, trains or subways. Earlier in the day, the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency announced that the earthquake epicentre was located in the Silivri district on the European side of Istanbul in the Marmara Sea, at a depth of 6.92 km. Earthquakes are frequent in Turkey, as it is crossed by two major fault lines.
In February 2023, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, and a second powerful tremor, left more than 53,000 dead and destroyed or damaged hundreds of thousands of buildings across southern and southeastern Turkey. A further 6,000 people were killed in the northern parts of neighbouring Syria. While Istanbul largely avoided the devastation wrought by that quake, it heightened fears of a similar, equally destructive episode in the future.
Yemen’s Houthis take responsibility for pre-dawn attacks on Israel
Sanaa/Jerusalem, April 23 (IANS) Yemen's Houthis on Wednesday claimed responsibility for the "missile and drone attacks" on "vital targets" in Israel's cities of Haifa and Tel Aviv, which reportedly triggered sirens across northwestern Israel earlier in the day. It is the first time the Houthis have targeted Haifa, in far northwestern Israel.
"We launched a hypersonic ballistic missile on Haifa, targeting a vital target," Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Sarea said in a televised statement aired by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV.
"The hypersonic missile hit the target in Haifa as the enemy (Israeli) defence systems failed to intercept it," he said.
For another military operation, Sarea said it was carried out against a "vital target" in Tel Aviv, using a bomb-laden drone.
"We will continue our military operations until the Israeli aggression on the Palestinian Gaza Strip stops and the blockade on it is lifted," the Houthi military spokesperson added.
Palestinian President calls for int’l peace conference
Ramallah, April 23 (IANS)
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Wednesday called for an international peace conference to be held under the auspices of the United Nations (UN), the US, Russia, China, the European Union, Japan, South Africa and Brazil, aiming to achieve a just, comprehensive and lasting peace in the region. During a speech in a Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) Central Council meeting hold in the West Bank city of Ramallah, Abbas stressed that the proposed conference must be based on UN Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, the International Court of Justice, the 2002 Arab Peace Initiative, and the signed agreements between the PLO and Israel.
He also talked about the creation of the position of Vice President of the Executive Committee of the PLO and the State of Palestine, noting that he has referred the matter to the PLO National Council and requested its President to take necessary legal steps to amend the PLO's basic law to establish the position.
The central council began its two-day meeting on Wednesday in Ramallah, Xinhua news agency
reported.
The meeting will discuss the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and the creation of the position of Vice President of the PLO, the first since its history.
Earlier on Wednesday, Hamas said that the PLO meeting could be an "opportunity to make a unified national position".
The movement stressed the need for the meeting to take "responsible and courageous decisions" to stop the war and restore the unified Palestinian position in defence of national rights.
The PLO is a coalition of parties that signed a peace treaty with Israel in 1993 and formed a new government in the Palestinian Authority with promises of statehood that never materialised. Both are dominated by Fatah, which Abbas leads.
Hamas was not party to the 1993 accords and does not recognise Israel.
While Abbas has never outright condemned the October 7 attack on Israel, he has criticised Hamas for it in the past and reiterated his general condemnation of attacks against civilians.
Abbas's speech laid out his vision to create a Palestinian state, calling for an end to the war in Gaza and renewed calls for a unification of Palestinian political factions under the umbrella of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO). His list of priorities also called for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Iran condemns US fresh sanctions amid indirect nuclear talks
a "bullying and illegal move, which is in explicit contradiction with the US claim of favouring dialogue and negotiations and indicative of Washington's lack of goodwill and seriousness in that regard.
Earlier in the day, Israel Defence Forces said in a post on social media platform X that sirens were sounded in the city of Haifa, the nearby Krayot region, and the Western Galilee, Xinhua news agency reported.
The Israeli military said, "An interceptor was launched toward the missile, and the missile was most likely successfully intercepted."
However, video footage posted on social media by Israeli residents, as well as live coverage by international television channels, showed that the Houthi missile struck the Israeli city, causing a huge explosion and fire.
Tehran, April 23 (IANS) Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Wednesday strongly condemned US fresh sanctions on a number of individuals and entities linked with the Iranian energy, oil, and gas sectors, as well as people involved in the country's "peaceful" nuclear programme. Baghaei made the remarks in a statement released by the Ministry a day after the US issued the new sanctions targeting individuals and entities for their role in exporting Iran's liquefied petroleum gas and crude oil to foreign markets, Xinhua news agency reported.
Baghaei said the US policy of imposing sanctions on the Iranian nation was a "clear indication of the American policymakers' hostile approach towards Iran's people and disregard for the rule of law and human rights".
He added, "The US administrations' structural dependence on imposing economic sanctions on developing countries as a tool of intimidation and political pressure violates the fundamental principles and regulations of the United Nations Charter and international law."
He noted that imposing sanctions on Iran's different economic and trade sectors was
The sanctions against Iran's economic and trade sectors are bullying and illegal measures that are in direct contradiction to the US' claim to be pursuing dialogue and negotiations and also indicate the US' lack of goodwill and seriousness, he said.
The spokesman held the US internationally accountable for imposing unilateral sanctions against the Iranian nation, saying Washington is held culpable for the egregious violations of human rights in the wake of its criminal measures.
The US Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) on April 22 designated Iranian national Seyed Asadollah Emamjomeh and his corporate network for their alleged role in shipping Iranian liquified petroleum gas (LPG) and crude oil to foreign markets.
The US has also designated Iranian national Meisam Emamjomeh.
The new sanctions are the seventh such action taken by the US government against Iran since February 4, when US President Donald Trump signed a presidential memorandum ordering a campaign of maximum pressure on the Islamic Republic.
Burnley appoint James Holroyd as CEO after securing PL promotion
Burnley, April 22 (IANS) Burnley Football Club has announced the appointment of James Holroyd as its new Chief Executive Officer, a day after the club enters an exciting era of transformation and growth following promotion to the Premier League.
The Clarets secured promotion to the top flight after their 2-1 win over Sheffield United on Monday.
James brings extensive strategic
leadership experience in global sport, including 14 years at Manchester United where he most recently served as Chief Commercial Development Officer. There he played a central role in the club’s record-breaking commercial success.
“I’m excited to be joining Burnley Football Club at such a pivotal time as we return to the Premier League. This is a club with a proud history and one of the most loyal, passionate fanbases in football.
"It’s a privilege to serve a club that means so much to its supporters, and I’m looking forward to working with everyone involved to build on what’s been achieved and shape an ambitious, exciting future together," said James.
Prior to joining Manchester United, James also spent 14 years at adidas driving business
innovation for one of the world’s most iconic sport brands. James will take up the role this summer, reporting to Chairman Alan Pace, where he will lead Burnley’s off-pitch ambitions including brand, commercial, innovation, fan engagement, and global growth.
Club Chairman Alan Pace added, “We are delighted to welcome James to the team.
"His track record speaks for itself, having been at the heart of some of the biggest commercial and cultural success stories in world football. But just as importantly, he shares our values, our hunger to innovate and our belief in football as a force for good.
"With James on board, we’re ready to accelerate our ambition, turning vision into impact and purpose into progress, at every level of the club.”
Sabalanka looking forward to Madrid but is keen to repeat 2023 rather than 2024
Madrid (Spain), April 23 (IANS)
Aryna Sabalenka is back at the Mutua Madrid Open hoping to rekindle memories of her title win from 2023, rather than her epic defeat in last year's final against Iga Swiatek. Sabalenka travels to Madrid in good form, despite a recent defeat in Stuttgart, but admitted in a press conference on Wednesday that the clay used in Madrid is not her
favourite surface.
"Playing on clay gives you more time to make your shots. But in the past, this has sometimes given me some confusion as I get a lot of ideas, and that leads to mistakes," she admitted. However, the Belarusian said the surface needed good "physical preparation" and "good tactical intelligence," and consequently, the surface is "the one that allows for improvement in all aspects of the game", reports Xinhua.
Last season saw her lose a dramatic final 7-5, 4-6, 7-6 to Swiatek, and she said that had been "an impressive spectacle," that showed she could perform on clay, but she also commented that her eventual defeat was "very upsetting" and she had "tried never to think about the final from last year."
Sabalenka said she preferred longer tournaments because "having a rest day between matches allows you to be more
relaxed, go out to dinner with your team, and explore the city." She also said that she preferred an automatic line-call system, even on clay, "because there are situations where chair umpires could make mistakes since visible marks don't always match the reality due to the ball's trajectory and speed."
Finally, the top seed addressed the issue of testing positive for contaminated substances, admitting that she was "much more cautious and aware of the dangers," following cases such as Jannik Sinner's suspension.
"I only drink and eat things that I have been able to control to the maximum and that my team provides me, and I am very careful about who I associate with, who I touch, and so on. Someone could have a cream with a banned substance, and it could transfer to my body, so... Yes, it's quite scary," she admitted.
Norwich City sack Johanne Hoff Thorup, Wilshere to take charge till end of season
Norwich, April 22 (IANS) A day after former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey took his first step in coaching during Cardiff City’s 1-1 draw against Oxford on Monday, his Gunners teammate Jack Wilshere will be taking charge of Norwich City till the end of the season after the club announced they will be parting
ways with head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup.
The club decided to pull the plug on Thorup’s tenure as head coach, after having appointed the Dane in May 2024, after the 1-3 defeat against Millwall on Monday. The Canaries currently sit in 14th place in the Championship, England’s second division, having won 13, drawn 14 and lost 17 of their 44 games this season.
“Norwich City have parted company with head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup with immediate effect. Assistant head coach Glen Riddersholm has also left his position with the club.
“Jack Wilshere, assisted by Tony Roberts and Nick Stanley, will take charge of the first team on an interim basis for our two remaining Sky Bet Championship fixtures of the season.
“The club will now progress with its plans of appointing a new permanent head coach in due course,” read the statement by
Rashford’s return to Man Utd under Amorim is unlikely: Report
New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)
Marcus Rashford is not ruling out a return to Manchester United at the end of his loan period at Aston Villa but it is unlikely he will play for head coach Ruben Amorim.
As per a report by the BBC, Rashford wants to play for a club in the UEFA Champions League next season, which United may still provide if they manage to win the Europa League, but will not make a decision until the end of the season. Although United may want to keep a player of his quality, his exit was of sour nature after being exiled by the new head coach.
Since joining Villa, Rashford has found the back of the net on four occasions and provided six assists in the crucial run-in towards the season.
Rashford had made 15 Premier League appearances for Man Utd this season, scoring in head coach Ruben Amorim’s first match - a 1-1 draw at Ipswich Town on 24 November - before adding two more in a 4-0 win over Everton a week later. He had not played since being left out of the squad for the Manchester derby on December 15, before signing for Aston Villa on loan in February.
The 27-year-old has scored 138 goals in over 400 appearances for the Red Devils having come through the ranks at Old Trafford and has lifted the Europa League, two FA Cups and two League Cups with his boyhood club. His most productive season came in 2022/23, when he scored 30 goals in all competitions - the first United player to reach that mark since Robin van Persie in 2013. He was named both the Sir Matt Busby Player of the Year and the Players’ Player of the Year that season.
“I am so happy with him. He is performing very well. His adaptation has been quick and his commitment to the process is really important for us and for him. He needs to keep going and on Saturday, hopefully he can help again,” said Emery after Villa's defeat against City, where Rashford scored.
‘He is a genius on the ball’: PSG’s Hakimi as Dembele returns for Arsenal clash
the club.
Wilshere, who worked as Arsenal’s Under-18 head coach before joining Norwich as a first team coach, will be in charge for the two remaining games this season which includes a home game against Ramsey’s Cardiff on the final day of the season.
Sporting director Ben Knapper said, “Whilst we made this appointment with a long-term focus and in line with our wider club strategy and direction, unfortunately recent results and performances have deemed it necessary for us to make a change.
“I’d like to place on record our sincere thanks to Johannes and Glen. They are both fantastic people who worked tirelessly to help improve and move our football club forward. We all wish the two of them the best in the next stage of their respective careers.”
Paris, May 6 (IANS) Paris Saint Germain head coach Luis Enrique confirmed Ousmane Dembele will be a part of the side that faces Arsenal in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Arsenal is currently trailing PSG by one goal after Dembele’s fourth minute strike from outside the box secured a 1-0 victory for the Ligue 1 winners in North London.
The French forward is Paris StGermain's top scorer this season with 33 goals in all competitions. Having gone off with a hamstring problem after scoring against Arsenal last week, he appeared to be moving well in the session on Tuesday morning.
"He's been training with us for
the last two days. You saw him on Tuesday - a normal training session for him. He'll be available on Wednesday," said Enrique in the pre-game conference. PSG’s attacking wingback Achraf Hakimi called Dembele a genius on the ball and was delighted on his return.
"He is the type of player who makes you want to go to the stadium to watch because he is a genius on the ball, even if he doesn't have many chances. He can change the course of the game so we are delighted to have him back in the team,” said Hakimi.
Arsenal and PSG are equally finely poised, with the French side holding a slender advantage. Dembele’s early strike in London has put Paris within touching distance of only their second-ever final.
Despite the lead, the French champions cannot afford to be complacent. Arsenal, known for their unpredictability and history of pulling off upsets in big games, could level the tie early and shift momentum. Enrique further elaborated on what could prove to be key for his side in the clash.
"Which means knowing that we will suffer at some point of this game, because the opponents doesn't have a favourable result. So it will be like in the first leg, a game balanced between both sides. I think we will need to put in a similar performance that in the first leg and most importantly stay true to our philosophy that led us to this point,” added the Spanish head coach.
Indian scientists develop optical sensing platform to detect cholesterol
New Delhi, April 23 (IANS)
A team of interdisciplinary researchers at the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST) in Guwahati, an autonomous institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has developed an optical sensing platform for cholesterol detection, based on silk fibre functionalised using phosphorene quantum dots, it was announced on Wednesday. A point-of-care (POC) device has been developed in the laboratory scale for detecting cholesterol using this, according to a Ministry of Science & Technology statement. It can sense cholesterol in trace amounts, even below the preferred range. It can be an efficient tool for routine monitoring of cholesterol levels in the human body.
The platform developed for cholesterol detection can help identify early symptoms of diseases like atherosclerosis, venous thrombosis, cardiovascular diseases, heart disease, myocardial infarction, hypertension, and cancer.
The project, led by Neelotpal Sen Sarma, a retired professor; Dr Asis Bala, an Associate Professor; and Nasrin Sultana, a DST INSPIRE Senior Research Fellow incorporated the material – the silk fibre -- into a cellulose nitrate membrane to create an electrical sensing platform for cholesterol detection.
The synthesised sensors were highly sensitive as well as selective for cholesterol detection. Furthermore, the electrical sensing platform generates no e-waste, a key advantage of the fabricated device.
Both sensing platforms respond similarly to real-world media such as human blood serum, experimental rat blood serum, and milk. The work has been
published in the “Nanoscale” Journal, published by Royal Society of Chemistry. Detecting fatal diseases at their earliest symptoms is essential, as abnormal biochemical markers may sometimes accompany such disorders. Therefore, reliable point-of-care (POC) detection of biomarkers associated with these diseases is necessary for personalized health monitoring. Cholesterol is an essential lipid in humans, produced by the liver. It is the precursor for vitamin D, bile acids, and steroid hormones. Cholesterol is necessary for animal tissues, blood, and nerve cells, and it is transported by blood in mammals.
There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein), often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol because it can accumulate in the walls of arteries and contribute to severe diseases, and HDL (high-density lipoprotein), known as 'good' cholesterol.
Middle-aged Americans more lonely than older generations: Study
New York, April 22 (IANS)
Middle-aged Americans demonstrated some of the highest levels of loneliness in a new study released on Tuesday, which assessed tens of thousands of 50 to 90-year-olds across 29 countries.
The peer-reviewed research, published in Aging and Mental Health, shows loneliness generally increases with age -- with only the US and the Netherlands representing places where middle-aged people feel more lonely than older generations. “There is a general perception that people get lonelier as they age, but the opposite is actually true in the US where middle-aged people are lonelier than older generations,” said lead author Robin Richardson, a social and psychiatric epidemiologist and assistant professor
at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health. Advocacy and interventions to address the loneliness epidemic have historically focused on older adults and adolescents. Middle-aged adults represent a critical population that is being overlooked, he mentioned. Loneliness is a significant public health concern, responsible for a wide range of physiological, cognitive, mental and behavioural health outcomes that decrease quality of life and increase the risk of disease.
Using data from 64,324 older adults in countries across Europe, North America, and the Middle East, Richardson collaborated with experts from Columbia University; McGill University in Canada; and Universidad Mayor in Santiago, Chile.
The team found that while loneliness generally increased with age, the size of the increase was greater in some countries than others. Adults in Bulgaria and Latvia reported the most substantial increase in loneliness
as people age. They found that adults in Cyprus and Greece had the highest prevalence of loneliness among adults aged 50–90 years. The US had a substantially higher prevalence of loneliness among middle-aged adults, a pattern shared with only one other country, the Netherlands.
Being unmarried, not working, depression and poor health were major reasons why loneliness varied with age, but the importance of these contributors and the combination of factors were different in each country. For example, in the US, not working was the top reason for a higher amount of loneliness among middle-aged adults, while in other countries it resulted in more loneliness among older adults.
The authors suggest this could be due to the unique social circumstances middle-aged adults face, such as highly constrained leisure time to socialise due to competing work, childcare, and aging parents’ caregiving demands.
Scientists link fatty, sugary diets with impaired brain function
Sydney, April 22 (IANS) In a significant study, researchers have linked fatty and sugary diets to impaired cognitive function.
The team from University of Sydney looked at the relationship between high-fat, high-sugar (HFHS) diets, particularly those high in refined sugar and saturated fat, and first-person spatial navigation.
Spatial navigation is the ability to learn and remember a path from one location to another, a process that can approximate the health of the brain’s hippocampus, said the study published in the International Journal of Obesity.
Dr Dominic Tran from the Faculty of Science’s School of Psychology led the research, which found HFHS diets have a detrimental effect on some aspects of cognitive function. It is likely those effects centre on the hippocampus, the brain structure important for spatial navigation and memory formation, rather than acting across the entire brain.
AI algorithm can help identify high-risk heart patients: Study
New York, April 22 (IANS A team of US researchers, studying a type of heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), on Tuesday said they have calibrated an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm to quickly and more specifically identify patients with the condition and flag them as high risk for greater attention during doctor’s appointments. The algorithm, known as Viz HCM, had previously been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the detection of HCM on an electrocardiogram (ECG).
The Mount Sinai study, published in the journal NEJM AI, assigns numeric probabilities to the algorithm’s findings.
For example, while the algorithm might previously have said "flagged as suspected HCM" or "high risk of HCM," the Mount Sinai study allows for interpretations such as, "You have about a 60 percent chance of having HCM," said Joshua Lampert, Director of Machine Learning at Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital.
As a result, patients who had not previously been diagnosed with HCM may be able to get a better understanding of their individual disease risk, leading to
a faster and more individualized evaluation, along with treatment to potentially prevent complications such as sudden cardiac death, especially in young patients.
“This is an important step forward in translating novel deep-learning algorithms into clinical practice by providing clinicians and patients with more meaningful information. Clinicians can improve their clinical workflows by ensuring the highest-risk patients are identified at the top of their clinical work list using a sorting tool,” said Lampert, Assistant Professor of Medicine (Cardiology, and Data-Driven and Digital Medicine) at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
HCM impacts one in 200 people worldwide and is a leading reason for heart transplantation. However, many patients don’t know they have the condition until they have symptoms and the disease may already be advanced.
“This study reflects pragmatic implementation science at its best, demonstrating how we can responsibly and thoughtfully integrate advanced AI tools into real-world clinical workflows,” said co-senior author Girish N Nadkarni, Chair of the Windreich Department of Artificial Intelligence and Human Health and Director of the Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Health.
Being omnivorous or vegan makes no difference to muscle building after weight training
New York, April 21 (IANS) Does the source of protein — plant or animal-based — make any difference to muscle gain? The answer is no, said researchers on Monday, adding that being omnivorous and vegan makes no difference to muscle building after weight training.
“But measurements taken after a single meal might not reflect the effects of consuming a balanced vegan diet over time,” Burd argued.
For the new study, the team recruited 40 healthy, physically active 20-40-year-old adults. The participants underwent a seven-day “habituation diet” to standardize their nutritional status prior to the clinical trial. Then they were randomly assigned to either a vegan or omnivorous diet.
“The good news is we think this is an easily reversible situation,” Dr Tran said. “Dietary changes can improve the health of the hippocampus, and therefore our ability to navigate our environment, such as when we’re exploring a new city or learning a new route home.”
The research team recruited 55 university students aged between 18 and 38. Each participant completed questionnaires capturing their intake of sugary and fatty foods. They also had their working memory tested in a number recall exercise, and their body mass index (BMI) recorded.
Also, the team from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the US refuted two more claims about if total daily protein intake is evenly distributed throughout the day and does a moderate but sufficient daily protein intake influence any of these variables. Their findings are reported in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise.
“The longstanding belief or the current dogma was that animal-based protein sources were better, particularly for the muscle-building response,” said Nicholas Burd, a professor of health and kinesiology at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
Previous studies that took muscle biopsies after a single feeding found that an animal-based meal provided more of a stimulus for muscle protein synthesis than a vegan meal.
Roughly 70 per cent of the protein for the omnivorous meals was obtained from animal sources: beef, pork, chicken, dairy, eggs. The vegan diet balanced the amino acid content of the meals, ensuring that participants consumed complete proteins.
All participants engaged in a series of muscle-strengthening activities in the lab every three days.
Burd was initially surprised to see that there were no differences in rates of muscle protein synthesis between those eating vegan or omnivorous diets.
He also was surprised to see that protein distribution across the day had no effect on the rate of muscle building given results from past studies of acute responses to dietary interventions and weight training.
Reason behind Millie Bobby Brown missing Broadway opening of ‘Stranger Things’ revealed
Actress Millie Bobby Brown missed the Broadway opening of ‘Stranger Things: The First Shadow’ at New York’s Marquis Theatre.
The actress, who has played Eleven in Matt and Ross Duffer’s hit since its 2016 debut, was busy filming one of her next projects, ‘Enola Holmes 3’, reports ‘People’ magazine.
The star-studded list of guests
supporting the team behind ‘The First Shadow’, which transferred from an acclaimed run in London’s West End, includes many of the Netflix series’ actors, Noah Schnapp, Natalia Dyer, Charlie Heaton, Jamie Campbell Bower, Cara Buono, Matthew Modine, Brett Gelman and Priah Ferguson.
Also not attending the event was original series actress Sadie Sink,
who did visit a preview of ‘The First Shadow’ on Monday. That was her day off from starring in director Danya Taymor and playwright Kimberly Belflower's ‘John Proctor Is the Villain’ just across the street at Broadway’s Booth Theatre.
As per ‘People’, Brown played the title character in 2020’s Enola Holmes, the story of Sherlock Holmes’ intrepid younger sister, and its 2022 sequel.
In addition to that and the ‘Stranger Things’ series, she has been busy in a variety of Netflix projects, including last year’s ‘Damsel and The Electric State’ this March. ‘Enola Holmes 3’ is bringing back Henry Cavill as Sherlock Holmes, Helena Bonham Carter as matriarch
Eudoria Holmes, Himesh Patel as Dr. Watson, Sharon DuncanBrewster as Mira Troy, Louis Partridge as Tewkesbury and more.
Director Philip Barantini helms the sequel, which, like its predecessors, is adapted by Jack Thorne from Nancy Springer’s book series of the same name. Barantini and Thorne have collaborated before, on the Netflix hit ‘Adolescence’.
“Adventure chases detective Enola Holmes to Malta, where personal and professional dreams collide on a case more tangled and treacherous than any she has faced before,” reads an official synopsis.
‘Stranger Things season 5’ is expected to premiere sometime in 2025.
This is what Katy Perry texted Luke Bryan about her space trip
Katy Perry, who joined an all-female crew on an 11-minute Blue Origin flight to the edge of space earlier this month, texted singer and her former 'American Idol' colleague Luke Bryan and told him it was “crazy”.
Luke told E! News: “I remember when I heard the news that she was going I was like, ‘Wow, that’s crazy that you’re getting to go. But now when she got back safe I was like, ‘Oh my god, wow. Awesome.’ " Explaining they had exchanged texts but not spoken properly,
Luke added: “I’ll be interested to hear her version of it. She was just like, ‘It was just totally crazy.’
She didn’t really elaborate more than that.
"But I’m just glad everybody made it home safe. I was sucked into the moment.”
'American Idol' host Ryan Seacrest praised Perry, who was joined on the flight by Gayle King, Lauren Sanchez, Aisha Bowe, Amanda Nguyen and Kerianne Flynn, for being "brave" and making the trip, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
He said: “I’m very, very happy
Khloe
Kardashian announces
‘exciting’ new reality show
Reality TV personality Khloe Kardashian revealed that she is working on a brand new reality show that will act as a spin-off to 'The Kardashians'.
The 40-year-old star featured alongside her Kardashian-Jenner family with the E! series 'Keeping Up with the Kardashians' in 2007, and they now all appear on 'The Kardashians', reports femalefirst. co.uk.
Speaking alongside Scott Disick at inaugural Get Real House, she said: "It's very exciting, very new, very excellent. We're excited to continue developing."
Khloe, who was initially married to Lamar Odom but is mother to True, seven, and two-year-old Tatum with former partner Tristan Thompson, did not reveal whether the likes of her sisters Kim and Kourtney or mother Kris would be involved.
all these people in the extended lives of the Kardashians? We're developing a show that we're actually, at least for now, calling 'Calabasas Behind the Gates'."
News of the reality show comes weeks after Khloe spoke of a newfound confidence she had developed since turning 40 last year.
She told UsWeekly: "With me being 40, I really wanted to do things that I had been thinking about doing, but was sort of too — either just my confidence was shot, or I just was too scared to try them.
that she did it and got back safely. She’s braver than I am.”
And while judge Lionel Richie wouldn't go into space if his "life depended on it", he knew Katy would have embraced the trip.
He said: “When she said she was going to space I said, ‘You go right on.' I’ll stay right down here. I didn’t give her any advice because you know Katy. She’s going to do exactly what she wants to do. But let me just say this to you. I’m not going anywhere. I told her, ‘I’ll wait here.’ God bless it, she came back.”
Carrie Underwood, who replaced Katy on 'American Idol', shared Lionel's lack of enthusiasm for going into space herself.
While she thought the experience was "crazy" and "amazing", she added: “I’m good on the ground.”
During the flight, Katy brought a symbolic memento into space – a small daisy, in tribute to her daughter – which she held up as she exited the capsule.
Speaking to reporters after the landing, Perry said: “This experience is second to being a mom.
That’s why it was hard for me to go because that’s all my love right there, and I have to surrender and trust that the universe is going to take care of me and protect me and also my family and daughter.
“I am full up from being able to get that gift of being a mom, and to go to space is incredible, and I wanted to model courage, worthiness and fearlessness.”
It was then revealed that the series has a working title of 'Calabasas Behind the Gates' and will take a look at the "extended lives" of the reality TV world. Rob Mills, executive vice president at Disney, said: "We all want to know what's happening behind the gates of Calabasas—who are
Bryan
"(With my 'Khloe In Wonderland' podcast), I was like, ‘You know what? Screw this.’ I’m gonna push myself, and I’m proud that I’ve done it. I’m doing it and I feel good about it. I found my rhythm. The only negative thing I would say is that you definitely feel like your body gives out a little bit more. I am like ‘Oh, my back hurts,’ like things I’ve never said before that I’m like, ‘Wow, OK'
"Other than that, everything is so perfect. I feel I’m just in a really great place in my life right now and I’m thrilled about it."
Adams announces new tour and new music
Legendary singer-songwriter
Bryan Adams is set to take the stage as he has announced his first tour as an independent artist.
And, there’s a new album under his own independent label to follow. The Roll with the Punches North American 2025 tour is a 40-date arena run and marks the first time Adams is doing things strictly his way, reports ‘People’ magazine.
The singer told ‘People’, "Everything seems a lot simpler. When you're completely responsible for everything going on,
there's something about that unity that I love, and the people come, and we have to discuss everything”.
He launched Bad Records, his independent label, in August 2024. In August 2025, he will release his first album under this label. "The best way to get your music out to people is to go on tour. I am excited to go and tell everybody about it”, he shared. "It's the first album I've ever released as an independent artist and it's also a time when I'm self-managing myself. It's all very new and exciting”.
Beyonce has a sweet family moment on stage during her tour
icon Beyonce had a sweet moment on stage with her family. The singer-songwriter invited her mum Tina on stage, alongside her daughters during her Cowboy Carter tour in America.
The 43-year-old was performing in Los Angeles when she decided to pay a heartfelt tribute to her 'mama', reports 'Mirror.co.uk'.
Making a special announcement, the Texas Hold 'Em singer told the crowd, "Today is a big day because my mother, who worked so hard on her book, has the Number 1 book on the New York Times bestsellers".
As per 'Mirror.co.uk', ahe then urged fans to congratulate her 71-year-old mom, who has just released her memoir Matriarch,
by shouting "Congratulations, Mama T".
Daughters Blue Ivy, 13, and seven-year-old Rumi were also on stage and proudly clapped along with the cheering audience as Beyoncé gave her mum a hug. And it's not the first time her daughters have appeared on stage with her during her latest tour.
Blue donned a newspaper print jumpsuit to dance with her famous mum to her track America
Has a problem. The teenager even did her own dance routine as Beyonce performed her hit 'Deja Vu'. While little sister Rumi also took to the stage to dance to the song Protector, which doting mum Beyonce dedicated to her. But there didn't appear to be any
sign of Beyonce's seven-year-old son Sir - who is Rumi's twin and the third child she shares with rapper husband Jay-Z. Her little boy seems to prefer to stay out of the spotlight for now, but her daughters look happy to shine and could follow in their famous mum's footsteps by having dance or music careers if their latest performances are anything to go by.
It's believed that Sir is kept in the wings because he's uninterested in the limelight that comes with his megastar parents' performances.
Lifting the lid on the twins' different personalities in 2019, grandma Tina said, "The girl (Rumi) is really just going to rule the world, and the boy (Sir) is kind of laid back and chills like the dad". She added that "(Blue Ivy) is the Queen B. The second Queen B".
Sir is said to prefer being quieter and is interested in "all of the numbers stuff, so he's not into fashion as much". In 2020, Sir's grandad, Mathew said of the youngster, "Sir, he just wants his world to himself". However, he said his twin sister, Rumi, reminded him more of Beyonce's sister Solange, who, while a performer like her sibling, prefers to keep more of a low profile.
Though Beyonce, who is thought to be worth an eye-watering £600 million, enjoyed a hugely successful Renaissance World Tour two years ago, it seems she is struggling to sell tickets this time round and empty seats covered with blankets have been spotted in some stadiums during her gigs.
Her latest album, Cowboy Carter, is taking her on a 32-city run across the US and Europe, visiting Los Angeles, Chicago, New Jersey, Paris, Houston, Atlanta, Washington, and Las Vegas.
Salma Hayek reveals what makes her really proud as a parent
and Augustin, from previous relationships, reports ‘Female First UK’.
Jenna Ortega, Robert De Niro signed for David O. Russell‘s ‘Shutout’
Things are looking exciting in the boulevards of Hollywood as Jenna Ortega and Robert De Niro are teaming up for David O. Russell‘s next feature film ‘Shutout’.
David is known for ‘American Hustle’ and ‘The Fighter’.
‘Shutout’ is based on a screenplay by Alejandro Adams, reports ‘Variety’.
The film is being produced by Russell, RK Films’ Joe Roth and Jeff Kirschenbaum and Mark Bomback. Black Bear will introduce the project to international buyers at the upcoming Cannes Film Market. CAA Media Finance is handling U.S. rights.
As per ‘Variety’, ‘Shutout’ follows Jake Kejeune (played by Robert De Niro), one of the last masters of a vanishing craft, the pool hustler. Having lived and lost by the roll of a ball in smoky backroom halls, Jake encounters Mia (Played by Jenna Ortega), a young prodigy whose raw, electrifying talent reignites a fire he thought long extinguished.
Tom
Francois and Mathilde's mother is Pinault's first wife Dorothee Lepere, while Augustin's mother is supermodel Linda Evangelista.
As per ‘Female First UK’, Salma insists seeing them all grow into fine young adults has made the decisions in her career, which saw her turn down many roles to ensure she was a present parent, to make her family her "priority" completely worthwhile.
Speaking to Italian publication IO Donna, she said, "All my children, not just Valentina, now they are all independent and I am happy about it. I have invested a lot of time in it. My family has always been a priority. You can see it in my career, in the last 18 years I have only chosen roles shot mostly in the summer and in Europe. I did not have to sacrifice anything, but only organise myself better”.
Salma now has more time for work now her daughter is 18 and she is as motivated as ever to continue to create new shows and films for Latin audiences via her own independent production company Ventanarosa, which provided viewers with hit series 'Ugly Betty'.
Sensing a rare opportunity to shape a legend, Jake takes Mia under his wing, honing her instincts and sharpening her natural gift. Together, they plunge into the ruthless world of high-stakes pool, where the line between unimaginable fortune and devastating failure is razor-thin. As Mia’s star ascends and her ambition grows, Jake must confront the ultimate question, can he steer her to greatness, or will her hunger for victory eclipse everything he has taught her?
“We’re delighted to be collaborating with the acclaimed director David O. Russell and the legendary Robert De Niro, and especially excited to see Jenna step into the spotlight alongside these two cinematic icons”, said RK Films’ Kirschenbaum. “It’s a rare and thrilling opportunity to support such a high-caliber team coming together to tell a compelling story — a lineup so precise, it feels like the perfect break”.
Cruise says he enjoys ‘hitting the keys’
Hollywood superstar Tom Cruise said that he unwinds by “hitting the keys” on the piano and takes dance lessons to understand body movement and "emotion".
"I wouldn’t say ‘play.’ I enjoy hitting the keys … I find it relaxing," he told People magazine, reports femalefirst.co.uk.
Cruise shared he likes to learn new skills and tries to use them all in his movies. He takes dance lessons to understand body movement and "emotion", reports femalefirst.co.uk.
The actor explained: "I will learn
on the piano
a skill, and I know eventually I’m going to use it in a movie... (I learn dance) because I’m interested in that art form. The teachers understand how to move a body, what the shape does and the emotion it can create in others…”
“(I'm) constantly training (in new skills) whether it’s the piano or having more time to dance. Or parachuting or flying airplanes or helicopters. The wonderful thing is you’re never there. It can always be better." The actor is returning to the big screen this month with his latest action movie 'Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning', reports femalefirst.co.uk. Alongside Cruise, the film features a star-studded cast, including Hayley Atwell as Grace; Ving Rhames as Luther Stickell, Simon Pegg as Benji Dunn, Vanessa Kirby as Alanna Mitsopolis, Esai Morales as Gabriel, Pom Klementieff as Paris, Henry Czerny as Eugene Kittridge and Angela Bassett as Erika Sloane.
Pop
Actress Salma Hayek has shed light on the greatest achievement in her life, and has shared that watching her children grow up and become independent is something that makes her really proud.
The 58-year-old actress has raised 18-year-old daughter Valentina with her husband, Kering CEO Francois-Henri Pinault, as well as being a stepmother to her spouse's three children, Francois, Mathilde