MCCQ February 2025

MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY CONNECT QUEENSLAND MONTHLY PUBLICATION

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Trump takes oath as 47th US President, returns to White House for second term

Washington, Jan 20 (IANS) Business mogul and Republican Party member Donald Trump returned to the White House on

Monday for a historic second term by taking the oath as the 47th President of the US. The oath was administered by Chief Justice John Roberts at the Capitol Rotunda.

Earlier, outgoing President Joe Biden and Trump rode together to the US Capitol for the latter's oath-taking programme after a traditional tea ceremony at the White House along with their wives, Kamala Harris and her

‘I’m fine with legal immigration’, need more of it: Trump

Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has said he is fine with legal immigration and that the nation will need more of it as manufacturing is going to expand because of his tariff policies.

“I'm fine with legal immigration. I like it. We need people, and I'm absolutely fine with it. We want to have it”, he said on Monday at his first news

conference as president.

He ran the news conference while signing executive orders at the Oval Office, which he had just entered.

As he signed orders to stop illegal migration and tighten visa procedures to stop terrorists, he gave assurance on legal immigration.

“We need it (legal immigration) because we're going to have a lot of companies coming in to avoid tariffs,” he said. “You know, if you don't want tariffs all you have to do is build your plant in the US. So we're going to have a lot of workers coming in. We have to have continued on pg. 3

successor J.D. Vance and their spouses.

Jill Biden and Melania Trump rode together to the Capitol in a separate car as did Kamala Harris and her successor J.D. Vance.

This is only the second instance of the swearing-in taking place indoors -- the last time was in 1985 when President Ronald continued on pg. 3

Maputo, Jan 28 (IANS) The potential suspension of financial aid from the US to Mozambique has raised concerns about its impact on critical sectors, particularly health, according

Warsaw, Jan 27 (IANS) Auschwitz survivors and global leaders gathered at the site of the Auschwitz concentration camp in southern Poland to commemorate the 80th anniversary of its liberation.

The ceremony drew an array of international dignitaries, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Ukrainian President

to appoint and swear in the new police chief, Joaquim Sive.

She noted that the government is prepared to tackle the challenge despite the significance of the support previously provided.

"We have faced other worrying situations before and managed them successfully. I believe this time will be no different, as we will use our internal resources to navigate through." continued on pg. 3

SADC to hold extraordinary summit on eastern DR Congo situation

Harare, Jan 30 (IANS) The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will hold an extraordinary summit in Harare, Zimbabwe's capital, on Thursday to discuss the security situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the SADC Secretariat said in a statement. www.mccq.org.au

The extraordinary meeting of heads of state and government, which will be chaired by SADC Chairperson and Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, will be preceded by the meetings of the SADC Standing Committee of Senior Officials and the SADC Council of Ministers, the statement said.

The SADC is a regional economic community of 16 member states, including the DRC. The other members are Angola, Botswana, Comoros, Eswatini, Lesotho, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa,

Over 400,000 people displaced in 2025 in Congo: UN

Kinshasa, Jan 25 (IANS) Over 400,000 people have been displaced since the beginning of 2025 in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), as conflict intensifies and rebellion

advances toward major townships, the United Nations refugee agency said.

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) on Friday said in a release that it is "gravely concerned" about the safety and security of civilians and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in eastern Congo, reports Xinhua news agency. continued on pg. 3

World leaders, survivors gather in Poland to commemorate 80th anniversary of Auschwitz liberation

US aid suspension poses challenge to Mozambique’s health sector: PM Levy to Mozambican Prime Minister Maria Benvinda Levy.

Speaking on Monday in Maputo, the country's capital, Levi emphasised the importance of the aid while expressing optimism about the government's ability to manage internally.

"If the suspension of external aid from the US is confirmed, the health sector will be one of the most affected," Levi told the press during an event in Maputo ahead of the official ceremony

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Feb 2025 - Vol 1 Issue 13

Tanzania, and Zambia, Xinhua news agency reported.

The extraordinary summit comes after recent attacks on United Nations and SADC peacekeeping missions by armed groups in the eastern DRC. Mnangagwa on Monday condemned the armed groups for the attacks, which resulted in several deaths and injuries, and vowed that the SADC will take action to deal with the deteriorating security and humanitarian situation in the eastern DRC. In November 2024, the SADC extended the mandate of its continued on pg. 2

Volodymyr Zelensky, King Charles III of the United Kingdom, French President Emmanuel Macron and Polish President Andrzej Duda, along with representatives from approximately 60 countries and international organizations.

The main commemoration took place at 4 pm local time in a large tent erected near the iconic main gate of Auschwitz II-Birkenau, the largest of the extermination camps. Around 3,000 attendees, including Holocaust survivors, their families, and world leaders, joined to honor the victims and reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust.

Polish President Andrzej Duda paid tribute to the victims during

the ceremony, emphasizing Poland's role in preserving these historical sites.

"Poland takes care of those sites to protect the memory, to keep it alive, so people always remember," he said.

Duda also highlighted that Jan. 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, established in 2005 by the United Nations General Assembly.

He added, "Today, we commemorate all those who were murdered during the Holocaust, including over 3 million Polish citizens of Jewish nationality who were killed by the Germans during World War II," Xinhua news agency reported.

African leaders call for AU reforms to improve efficiency

Nairobi, Jan 28 (IANS) Five African leaders called for reforms of the African Union (AU), focusing on peace and stability, funding, the PanAfrican Parliament, and the African Court of Justice, to make it efficient and responsive to effectively serve its members and the people of Africa.

The leaders, who attended a retreat in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, said a reformed African Union, which is key to unlocking the continent's full potential, will serve as a bridge to prosperity for all African people.

Kenyan President William Ruto, who spoke at the conclusion of the high-level Extended Bureau Retreat on AU Institutional Reforms he chaired in his capacity as the champion of the institutional reforms, said reforms involve revitalising the structure, functioning, and focus of the AU Commission, AU organs, and specialised agencies, which aim to boost the effectiveness and efficient management of the AU programs.

"A fit-for-purpose African Union is a necessary imperative at this

point if the AU has to play the role of speaking for 1.4 billion Africans," Ruto said.

The retreat was attended by presidents John Mahama of Ghana, Azali Assoumani of the Comoros, Taye Atske Selassie of Ethiopia, and Umaro Sissoco Embalo of Guinea-Bissau. Also present was AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat.

Ruto also announced that they had agreed on the need to establish a committee of five presidents to complement efforts by the AU's champion of institutional reforms. The committee, he said, will help to advance the implementation of agreed reforms of various agencies, institutions, and organisations.

Ruto, who was given the mandate to champion reforms of the AU by fellow heads of state last year, said reform of the African peace and security architecture is necessary to ensure lasting peace and stability.

The retreat recommended the establishment of a panel of experts to propose ways for strengthening Africa's conflict response and financing mechanism.

The leaders also proposed the financing of the AU to make it continued on pg. 3

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Multicultural Community Connect Queensland

Publisher Dr. Noel Kannagaraj Editor Dr. Ram Mohan & Pushpa Vaghela Maria Judith Guillergan

Feb 2025 - Vol 1 Issue 13

Associate Editor Dr Devashish Chakraborty

Contributors Rabindra Mukherjee Deepika Banerjee Website Design & Updates Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Designing Cosmos Media (www.cosmosmedia.info) Editorial secretary@mccq.org.au Advertising adverts@mccq.org.au Multicultural Community Connect Qld Unit 49, 391, WICKHAM TERRACE, Ground Floor, Spring Hill, Brisbane, QLD – 4000 CALL NOW +61 466 985 497

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Trump takes oath as 47th US President, returns to White House for second term ... continued from page 1 Reagan took the oath for his second term.

Earlier, Biden welcomed Trump to the White House for a traditional tea ceremony with two words: “Welcome home”, according to media reports.

Guests for the swearing-in had begun arriving at the Capitol Rotunda where the ceremony took place; indoors instead of the traditional venue outside.

This was only the second instance of the swearing-in took place indoors; the last time was in 1985 when President Ronald Reagan took the oath for his second term.

Trump’s return to the White House is also only the second time for an American President to serve two non-consecutive terms. The first was Grover Cleveland at the end of the 19th century.

The swearing-in was attended

by Trump’s nominees to the cabinet such as Marco Rubio, for secretary of state, who is expected to be the first to be confirmed, as early as Monday.

Trump started Monday’s inauguration proceedings by attending a private service at St John’s Church with the incoming first lady Melania Trump, J.D. Vance and wife Usha Vance and

some members of the cabinet.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Amazon’s Jeff Bezos, Apple’s Tim Cook, Tesla and Space X’s Elon Musk, and Google’s Sundar Pichai also attended the swearing-in ceremony.

Former President Bill Clinton and his wife Hillary Clinton, former President George W Bush and his wife Laura Bush, and former President Barack Obama minus his wife Michelle Obama attended the oath-taking ceremony as is the tradition, which was broken by President Trump who skipped Biden’s inauguration in 2021.

US aid suspension poses challenge to Mozambique’s health sector: PM Levy ... continued from page 1 Acknowledging that the US support has been crucial, particularly in the health sector, Levi said other areas, with less significant dependence on external aid, might also be impacted.

"We will have to redirect some

of our resources to ensure these critical areas can continue their activities without disruption," she added.

The US Department of State has frozen nearly all foreign assistance worldwide effective immediately days after President Donald Trump issued a sweeping

executive order on January 20 to put a hold on such assistance for 90 days.

In Mozambique, more than $400 million could be affected, which are earmarked annually for the health sector, including $250 million for the HIV program, according to a Sunday report by the local newspaper O Pais.

SADC to hold extraordinary summit on eastern DR Congo situation ... continued from page 1 peacekeeping mission in the DRC by one year amid continued fighting between the Congolese army and armed groups, which has resulted in over 400,000 people being displaced since the

start of 2025.

Earlier UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres talked over the phone with the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda to discuss the escalating conflict in

the DRC, a UN spokesman said.

The M23 rebels occupy portions of Goma, the largest city of eastern DRC, while Rwanda has been denying allegations its troops were in the DRC, supporting M23.

Trump says he will announce 25 pc duties on steel, aluminum imports; threatens more to come

New York, Feb 10 (IANS) US President Donald Trump has said that he will announce a 25 per cent duty on all steel and aluminum imports, a long-standing contentious category of trade for India and the US. President Trump said on Sunday that he will announce the tariffs on Monday covering imports from all countries.

“Any steel coming into the United States is going to have a 25 per cent tariff, aluminum, too”, Trump said while flying to New Orleans for the Superbowl.

He said that reciprocal tariffs would also be coming for all countries.

“Very simply, if they charge us, we charge them”; he said.

Those tariffs will be announced on Tuesday or Wednesday and take effect immediately, he added.

The tariff threat came ahead of www.mccq.org.au

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington this week.

India exported steel worth $4 billion and aluminum worth $1.1 billion during 2023.

Steel and aluminum trade has been a contentious – and complicated issue – for India and the US with Washington accusing New Delhi of subsidising those exports.

During PM Modi’s visit to Washington in 2023, the two countries agreed to settle six disputes before the World Trade Organisation involving the metals.

However, in October, the US slapped duties of as much as 39.5 per cent on some categories of aluminum imports.

It was not clear how the 25 per cent tariff Trump announced will apply to these.

In the last days of former President Joe Biden’s

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administration in January, the US agreed to waive additional tariffs imposed by Trump’s first administration ranging between 10 per cent and 25 per cent, with a joint mechanism to monitor the exports.

In return, India agreed to reduce tariffs on apples, walnuts and almonds.

India’s total exports to the US were $87.4 billion, while imports from the US were $47.8 billion last year, with a large balance in India’s favour, according the the US Census Bureau.

Trump has focussed on the US trade deficits and has vowed to reverse them through tariffs.

During his first term, he made the 100 per cent duty on Harley Davidson motorcycles an example of why he considers India a “Tariff King”.

India this month symbolically reduced the duties already reduced on heavier Harley Davidson models from 50 per cent to 30 per cent and from 50 per cent to 40 per cent for other models.

But in more substantial categories like satellite ground equipment and some scrap and waste, it scrapped duties, while reducing them in some other groups.

‘I’m fine with legal immigration’, need more of it: Trump ... continued from page 1 legal immigration.”

Trump declared a national emergency at the US southern border allowing for deploying the National Guard and other forces, expediting the building of the border wall, and requiring asylum-seekers to remain in Mexico.

Some categories of children born in the US will also not get automatic citizenship, under his orders.

Another order declares drug cartels terrorist organisations.

Trump said this may allow the use of the military to go after drug cartels within Mexico.

He threatened the BRICS nations with 100 per cent tariffs if they developed an alternative currency to the dollar.

India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has already rejected the idea of a BRICS currency. India is the second biggest economy in the group comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa

as original members and five newer members.

Asked about his assertions that he would end the Ukraine War on his first day, Trump quipped that only a half day had passed.

He said that Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky was ready to make a deal, but Russia’s President Vladimir Putin wasn’t.

He said, “I have to speak to President Putin”.

“He's destroying Russia by not making a deal. I think Russia's gonna be in big trouble,” he said.

Trump said that he had received an invitation to visit China and the trip could happen this year.

He said he would consider an across-the-board 10 per cent tariff on all imports because the US had trade deficits with all but two countries and was being taken advantage of.

The threatened 25 per cent tariffs on Canada and Mexico for allowing illegal migration and drugs to come to the US, he said would go into effect on February 1.

Over 400,000 people displaced in 2025 in Congo: UN ... continued from page 1 According to the statement, persistent clashes between belligerents in these areas continue to worsen the protection environment for civilians in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces, which are already home to 4.6 million IDPs. Violent clashes have been ongoing since Friday morning between government troops and the March 23 Movement (M23) rebels in the town of Sake and its surrounding areas in North Kivu province. Loud explosions were heard around the town, which is the last barrier for the government to defend Goma, the capital of North Kivu province.

All humanitarian routes between Goma, Sake and Kalehe, three zones experiencing intense violence, have been cut off due to ongoing hostilities, the UNHCR reported on Friday. The report also noted that an influx of

injured individuals has overwhelmed hospital emergency capacities.

A widespread sense of panic has gripped displaced residents in Goma and its surrounding neighbourhoods amid ongoing shelling by the M23. Several foreign embassies have issued alerts, advising their citizens to leave North Kivu while airports and borders remain operational.

Guillaume Njike Kaiko, spokesperson for the DRC military in North Kivu, said on Friday that the effort to liberate Sake, now occupied by the M23, is still underway.

"We have already halted the enemy's advance toward Goma, and at this moment, we urge the population to remain calm because our armed forces are fully engaged on the front lines against the enemy. We assure you that the army will restore order on the ground," he told Xinhua over the phone.

African leaders call for AU reforms to improve efficiency ... continued from page 1 more financially autonomous.

Ruto said they have recommended the operationalisation of the African Court of Justice and the appointment of judges, which will ensure that the continent has a mechanism for conflict resolution in Africa, especially on disputes.

Selassie called for regular and comprehensive dialogue on issues affecting the continent, emphasising the importance of fostering strong political will to achieve the continent's transformation agenda. He also advocated the formation of an AU Peace Support Directorate similar to that of the United Nations. "We have to put in place a structure that reflects the UN Security Council, particularly the peace support operation," he said.

Mahama said the 55-member continental organization requires bold and transformative reforms to address emerging challenges effectively. He said the AU must evolve to become more efficient and impactful by streamlining its decision-making processes to ensure they are timely and results-oriented.

He reckoned that overlapping mandates hinder effective decision-making, noting that bureaucratic inefficiencies undermine the confidence of citizens and international partners.

Embalo pointed out that reforms of the pan-African bloc are essential for the common good of the continent to drive it to an era of peace and global influence.

"We face many challenges, but the opportunities available on our continent are immense," he said.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

MHF partners with ECCQ announces hosts for Ultra Events for new International Women’s Day 2025 fundraising challenge

Brisbane, January 24 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) has revealed Jenae Tien Jenkins as the Master of Ceremonies and Anna-Liza Mopio-Jane as the keynote speaker for International

Women’s Day 2025 (IWD2025).

Jenae, an award-winning producer, author, and social entrepreneur, is renowned for redefining allyship through her storytelling and educational initiatives. From her Bloodlines to Country podcast to

collaborations with ABC Kids and Play School, she has become a prominent advocate for empathy and inclusion.

Anna-Liza Mopio-Jane, a former Olympian and sports industry veteran, brings over 20 years of experience as a speaker, counsellor, and advocate for mental health and well-being.

An accredited counsellor and breathwork expert, her journey as an elite athlete has inspired her dedication to wellness and personal growth.

Together, Jenae and Anna-Liza embody the spirit of diversity, empowerment, and resilience that defines IWD2025.

ECCQ’s Acting CEO praises Senator Paul Scarr’s commitment to multiculturalism

Brisbane, January 10 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) has teamed up with Ultra Events to offer an exciting opportunity for individuals to challenge themselves, learn new skills, and raise money for mental health.

Ultra Events, known for their unforgettable experiences in White Collar Boxing, MMA, and stand-up comedy, will host a series of events designed for beginners. Participants will have the chance to train for free

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with experienced professionals over an 8-week period, building confidence and getting active in a supportive, welcoming community.

Whether participants are looking to grow their fitness, boost their confidence, or step out of their comfort zone, the program offers a unique chance to make a positive impact on both personal health and mental health advocacy. The series is designed to raise funds for mental health initiatives, combining fitness, fun, and charity in one impactful experience.

Brisbane, January 17 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) Gary Taylor has commended Senator Paul Scarr for his dedication to supporting multicultural communities in Queensland.

In a recent Facebook post, Taylor

highlighted Senator Scarr’s role as a vital link between citizens, parliament, and the government, ensuring public policy reflects the needs and priorities of diverse communities. "Senator Scarr excels in understanding and addressing the opinions and challenges of the communities he serves," Taylor wrote.

Taylor also shared insights from their recent meeting at ECCQ’s Berlasco Court Caring Centre, where they discussed the unique needs of multicultural communities and ways to collaborate with the Federal Government to address emerging issues.

Quoting Senator Scarr, Taylor reiterated ECCQ’s support for his vision: “One of the driving reasons I sought election to this place was to make it easier, not harder, for Australians to pursue opportunity and create wealth through their own initiative, enterprise, and spirit.”

The post underscores ECCQ’s commitment to fostering partnerships that promote inclusivity and opportunity across Queensland.

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Governance training for multicultural communities on February 8

Brisbane, January 16 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) is teaming up with Baringa Community Centre to offer a training session aimed at empowering multicultural communities with essential governance and government navigation skills.

Scheduled for February 8, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the session will take place at Baringa Community Centre, located at 20 Edwards Terrace, Baringa, Caloundra West.

Participants will gain practical

knowledge in key governance areas such as strategic planning, risk management, and financial oversight. Additionally, the session will provide insights into navigating government systems, including the Australian Tax Office (ATO), Australian Business Register (ABN Registration), and other vital agencies.

This initiative underscores ECCQ’s commitment to equipping community organizations with tools to thrive and better serve Queensland’s multicultural population.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Karen community marks New Year 2764 with cultural celebrations

Brisbane, January 13 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Karen community in Queensland recently celebrated the Karen New Year 2764 with vibrant cultural festivities and heartfelt calls for peace.

Hosted by the Australian Karen Organization’s Queensland branch, the event featured

traditional dances, community choirs, and recognition of community leaders. A key theme of the celebration was the community’s desire for an end to the ongoing conflict affecting many Karen people.

The celebration was supported

by Senator Paul Scarr, Ariana Doolan MP, Multicultural

Australia, the Queensland Program of Assistance to Survivors of Torture and Trauma, the Karenni community, and Rev. Emil Rahimov.

The event highlighted the Karen community’s resilience and unity while promoting cultural heritage and advocating for peace.

MHF announces ‘Community’ theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2025

FECCA’s ‘Clay & Narrative’ workshop promotes well-being in multicultural communities

Brisbane, January 14 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) has unveiled its theme for Mental Health Awareness Week 2025, which will be held from May 12-18. The chosen theme, 'Community,' underscores the vital role that being part of a supportive, positive community plays in promoting mental health and wellbeing.

The Foundation emphasizes that individuals thrive when they are connected to others, particularly within communities that offer www.mccq.org.au

safety, support, and a sense of belonging. These connections are crucial in difficult times, providing not only emotional support but also a sense of purpose.

For this year’s Mental Health Awareness Week, the Mental Health Foundation aims to celebrate the power of community and its profound impact on mental health. The initiative will highlight the importance of strong, connected communities in fostering resilience and wellbeing.

Canberra, January 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) recently hosted the 'Clay & Narrative'

workshop in partnership with Embrace Multicultural Mental Health and Mental Health Australia. This event was part of FECCA’s CALD Community Engagement Project

(CCEP), designed to promote mental health and build stronger community connections.

The workshop brought together volunteers from the Shingal Community Garden and the STARTTS team to engage in storytelling, craft ceramic tiles, and reflect on their personal journeys. The creative activity aimed to enhance well-being and foster a sense of belonging among participants, allowing them to share experiences and support each other in a positive environment.

In a statement shared on Facebook, FECCA expressed its pride in collaborating with Embrace on this vital project, which focuses on mental health and suicide prevention for individuals from multicultural communities. The workshop highlights the ongoing commitment to addressing mental health issues and promoting resilience within these communities.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

FECCA launches aged care awareness initiative Canberra, January 14 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA), in collaboration with the Australian Chinese Women’s Federation Inc. (ACWF), recently launched a culturally sensitive awareness campaign to help individuals from diverse communities access My Aged Care Services. The initiative aimed to assist people in staying at home with their families for as

long as possible, focusing on the Gold Coast, Robina, Southpoint, and Nerang areas in Queensland.

The campaign was conducted in Mandarin and Tagalog to cater to the local multicultural population. Activities included three face-to-face workshops, with one held during Queensland Senior’s Month in October and another as part of the ACWF’s Chong Yang Festival. In addition to the in-person workshops, information was shared through

popular Chinese social media platforms like WeChat and Little Red Book, as well as WhatsApp groups.

The project reached 156 individuals in person and over 2,700 people online, highlighting the importance of culturally appropriate information in promoting access to vital services. FECCA has proudly supported 18 Small Grants Projects like this one across Australia, working to address the needs of multicultural communities.

Gold Coast hosts transformative meditation workshop for Latin women Brisbane, January 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast, in collaboration with Brahma Kumaris and Expats Ladies, recently hosted a transformative meditation

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workshop titled “Living Harmony No Matter What.” Led by Moira Lowe and conducted in Spanish, the event empowered Latin women to embrace inner peace and harmony.

The workshop focused on

overcoming stress, living without fear, and fostering positive thoughts—key tools for migrant women navigating the challenges of adapting to a new environment. Meditation was highlighted as an essential practice for improving mental

health, helping reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Participants engaged in meaningful conversations with Moira and shared their experiences as migrant women, creating a supportive and uplifting atmosphere. One attendee described

the event as “a deep feeling of peace and gratitude.”

This initiative reflects the commitment to supporting the well-being of migrant communities and fostering resilience through mindfulness and connection.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Youth Representative Report 2024 highlights key issues for Young Australians

Brisbane, January 19 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Youth Representative Report 2024, released by UN Youth Australia, identified education, climate change, mental health,

and financial security as the most pressing issues for young Australians. The report, which gathered insights from over 2,000 young people during the annual 'Listening Tour,'

includes perspectives shared

by Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast’s (MCCGC) Youth Advisory Group (YAG) in July.

The 'Listening Tour' brought together youth from across Australia, including both rural and urban areas, to discuss their experiences and challenges, as well as their hopes for the future.

These conversations revealed four key concerns that resonated strongly with young people nationwide.

Education emerged as a top priority, with young Australians advocating for an inclusive, equitable, and adaptable education system. The need for educational institutions to promote critical thinking, civic engagement, and social cohesion was emphasized, alongside a call for policies that prepare youth for the challenges ahead.

Climate change was also highlighted as an urgent issue, with a demand for immediate action to address environmental challenges. Young people called for increased investment in

sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels and improvements to recycling systems, including a nationwide soft plastics recycling initiative to reduce landfill waste.

Mental health was another significant concern, with young Australians stressing the importance of accessible care.

There was a particular focus on increasing access to mental health services for people with disabilities and ensuring that information on available support services, such as those for victims of domestic violence, is both accessible and transparent.

Concerns over poverty and financial security were also raised, with young people identifying job instability, affordable housing, and economic opportunities as key challenges.

They urged for improvements in education funding and student debt policies, which could ease financial stress and encourage more youth to pursue higher education.

A notable achievement of this year's report is the reintroduction of state and territory

sections, reflecting the increased number of participants. This addition provides valuable insights into regional issues, allowing for a more tailored approach to youth concerns. For instance, young Queenslanders highlighted education, mental health, and gender inequality as key areas of impact, while also expressing concerns about climate change, the rising cost of living, and poverty.

Queensland youth also voiced hopes for gender equality in pay, consistency in government policies for those with mental health disabilities, and the inclusion of practical education, such as civic education and online safety courses, in school curriculums.

MCCGC’s Youth Advisory Group’s participation in this important consultation reinforces the commitment to empowering young voices and advocating for meaningful change. Addressing these issues is a crucial opportunity for policymakers, educators, and communities to collaborate and build a better, more inclusive future for all Australians.

MCCGC attends empowering women event focused on gender-based violence

Brisbane, January 19 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Isabela from Community Development at the Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) recently attended

the Power Nadesiko Gold Coast event, organized by the Japan Community of Queensland. This empowering initiative aimed to support women in becoming independent and leading safe lives,

with a particular focus on raising awareness about gender-based violence and discrimination, especially among culturally diverse women, including those from the Japanese community in

ECCQ welcomes new Australians, acknowledges First Nations concerns

Brisbane, January 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) marked Australia Day by welcoming new citizens and acknowledging the

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day’s complex significance for First Nations people.

In a statement shared on Facebook, ECCQ celebrated those who received their citizenship on January 26,

writing, “We are honoured to welcome you as citizens and join us in upholding Australia's values of freedom, democracy, equality and respect.”

At the same time, ECCQ expressed sensitivity to the concerns raised by First Nations people regarding the celebration of Australia Day and its historical context. The council emphasized that Australia is a nation built on the foundation of its First peoples and enriched by migrants from diverse backgrounds.

This dual message highlights ECCQ’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and mutual respect in a multicultural society.

Queensland.

The event featured bilingual videos in English and Japanese, offering expert interviews that provided valuable insights on various topics related to

gender-based violence. After the video screenings, a panel discussion was held, featuring experts in workplace harassment, sexual assault, and domestic violence.

Panelists included Jess Malloy from the Gold Coast District Domestic and Family Violence and Vulnerable Persons Unit of QLD Police; Cassandra Mallett from the Gold Coast Community Legal Centre; Kellie Wilk, Counselling Manager at the Gold Coast Centre Against Sexual Violence; and Marica Ristic, Manager of the Sara Program MFO. During the panel, attendees had the opportunity to ask questions and gain practical advice on what to do in certain situations, as well as information on available support services. The event served as a valuable platform for connecting with experts and community members, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges surrounding domestic violence and discrimination, and promoting solutions for a safer, more inclusive future.

Saba Abraham honoured with OAM for empowering African communities

Brisbane, January 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Saba Abraham has been awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2025 Australia Day Honours, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the Eritrean and African communities in Australia. Abraham’s passion for women’s empowerment led her to establish Mu’ooz Eritrean

Restaurant and Catering in Brisbane’s West End. The restaurant has become a vital hub, employing and training African refugee and migrant women to build linguistic skills, understand Australian culture, and expand their professional networks.

Beyond serving traditional Eritrean cuisine, Mu’ooz provides a safe space for women to gain confidence, develop skills, and integrate into their new community. This initiative highlights Abraham’s unwavering commitment to fostering inclusion and opportunity for marginalized groups.

The OAM formally acknowledges Abraham’s dedication to empowering women and enriching Australia’s multicultural fabric.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

MCCGC hosts creative art session for kids in school holidays initiative

Brisbane, January 15 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) recently held an art session for children participating in its Settlement, Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP), and National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) services. This session, part of MCCGC’s school holidays initiative, was led by the

Settlement team and aimed to provide an engaging and creative space for kids.

The young participants explored their feelings and experiences through art, creating works inspired by four key themes: "I feel seen, I feel heard, and I feel safe," "I feel welcome, and I belong," "Australia looks like this to me," and freestyle.

The children’s artwork

featured beautiful landscapes, depictions of their favourite toys, representations of their home countries, and other imaginative creations. This initiative provided a meaningful outlet for self-expression while fostering a sense of belonging and community for children from diverse backgrounds.

MCCGC students kick off 2025 with vision board activity in Palm Beach

Brisbane, January (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) welcomed back their "Coffee, English & Friends" students for the first session of 2025 in

Palm Beach. To start the year on an inspiring note, the group engaged in a creative vision board activity, designed to help participants visualize their goals and dreams for the year ahead.

Students created collages with

images and words that reflected their aspirations, including improving their English, studying a course, building stronger relationships, reading more books, and traveling around Australia. The vision boards serve as a motivational tool,

keeping students focused on achieving their personal goals.

In addition to the inspiring activity, students were excited about the new class location at the Palm Beach Aquatic Centre, which offers a welcoming and vibrant space for connection and

learning.

The free course runs every Tuesday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, offering an opportunity for participants to improve their English while fostering a sense of community.

Queensland’s Peer Work Scholarship Program completes successful two-year run

Brisbane, January 21 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health’s project coordinator, Justine Bastow released the final report on the Peer Work

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Scholarship Program, marking the conclusion of two years of success in Queensland. The report offers valuable insights for stakeholders dedicated to the continued development of the

mental health sector workforce.

The program was designed to strengthen and expand the mental health and suicide prevention Lived Experience workforce by funding scholarships for individuals pursuing the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work.

Throughout 2023-2024, the initiative awarded 178 scholarships, ensuring diversity through targeted support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and individuals from rural and remote areas.

The Peer Work Scholarships Program is supported by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care, commissioned by the Queensland Mental Health Commission, and administered by the Queensland Alliance for Mental Health. This initiative has played a key role in enhancing the mental health workforce in Queensland, reflecting the growing recognition of lived experience in mental health care

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COMMUNITY NEWS

St Flannan’s School partners with Multicultural Australia to foster inclusion Brisbane, January 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Multicultural Australia recently conducted cultural capability training at St Flannan’s School, enhancing the institution’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and social justice.

Held in the school’s air-conditioned library, the training aimed to empower the leadership team, teaching staff, and support personnel with tools to build an inclusive school environment. With students from over 60 language backgrounds,

St Flannan’s is dedicated to creating a community where diversity is celebrated.

The training focused on understanding cultural perspectives, addressing unconscious biases, promoting self-awareness and respectful curiosity, and developing strategies for effective cross-cultural communication.

This collaboration underscores Multicultural Australia’s ongoing efforts to support schools in creating environments that embrace diversity and prepare students for a socially just world.

QAMH partners with QAMH partners to launch nature-based Third Sector for National mental health pilot program on Gold Coast Mental Health Forum

Brisbane, January 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health (QAMH) has announced its partnership with the Third Sector for the 8th National Social and Emotional Wellbeing Forum, set to take place in Melbourne on March 26-27, 2025.

The forum will bring together national leaders in mental health, including chief psychiatrists, mental health commissioners, and community advocates, to address pressing mental health challenges. Over the two-day

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event, presenters will focus on building resilience, fostering unity, and developing community-led, culturally responsive solutions.

Discussions will centre on evidence-based approaches to early intervention, prevention, and achieving sustainable mental health outcomes, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling the evolving mental health crisis. The forum is expected to be a significant platform for shaping future mental health policies and practices.

Brisbane, January 14 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Queensland Alliance for Mental Health (QAMH) is collaborating with PCCS, Outdoors Queensland, and ASPIRE to launch a pilot program on the Gold Coast aimed at improving mental health through social prescribing.

This innovative initiative will introduce a dedicated link worker to help connect individuals accessing mental health services with local nature-based activities and community groups. The program seeks to enhance well-being by fostering meaningful connections to both the community and the natural environment.

Chloe Jesson, QAMH Director of Operations, recently met with partners from Outdoors Queensland and PCCS to discuss the next steps following the NATURELINK (Networking Across Teams Using Referrals and Engaging in Link Worker Initiatives for Nature-based Knowledge and Activities) workshop held on the Gold Coast last

August. The workshop focused on improving the integration of mental health services with nature-based activities and local community groups.

This pilot program represents a

forward-thinking approach to mental health care, emphasizing the positive impact of nature and community engagement on overall well-being.

QAMH team completes mental health first aid training Brisbane, January 22 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Queensland Alliance for Mental Health (QAMH) team members Claire and Yumi recently completed their Mental Health First Aid training at Mental Health Services and Training.

The two-day course, facilitated

by QAMH member Leigh FraserGray, equipped participants with essential skills to recognize and respond effectively to mental health challenges within the community. The training focused on providing practical knowledge to assist individuals experiencing mental health issues and was designed to promote a more supportive environment for those in need.

The completion of this training highlights QAMH's commitment to enhancing mental health awareness and preparedness within the community, ensuring that its team is better equipped to respond to mental health concerns with confidence and care.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

QAMH explores workforce collaboration with South Korean Mental Health Organization Brisbane, January 13 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Queensland Alliance for Mental Health (QAMH) Project Officer Jun Song recently met with Youn Sun Hee, Secretary General of the Korea Association of Community Psychiatric Rehabilitation Centers, during his visit to South Korea. The meeting focused on workforce development issues and potential collaboration between the two organizations.

Youn Sun Hee expressed keen interest in connecting with QAMH and exploring opportunities for networking, including participation in future events and possibly establishing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two organizations.

The discussion highlighted the challenges faced by community mental health organizations in South Korea, particularly around the recruitment of trained mental health professionals. Social workers, psychologists, nurses, and occupational therapists are critical to their organizations, but difficulties in filling these positions persist despite stringent qualification requirements.

For example, social workers must complete extensive training before qualifying for advanced roles, but many organizations struggle to meet these staffing demands due to insufficient government funding.

Jun Song learned that the mental health workforce in South Korea, although highly educated, often

faces wage disparities and lacks benefits like salary sacrifice options, which are available in Australia. Many trained professionals are transitioning to public sector roles due to these challenges.

Discussions also covered the proposed introduction of a Level 3 mental health social worker qualification to address the growing demand for services.

Community welfare and disability organizations are increasingly expanding into the community mental health space to meet these needs.

This insightful visit is expected to inform QAMH’s ongoing work in workforce development, as Jun looks forward to integrating the valuable knowledge gained into QAMH’s future initiatives.

Chinese Art Exhibition celebrates the Year of the Snake at Robina Community Art Gallery MCCGC supports cultural showcase featuring talented Chinese artists Brisbane, January 29 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Year of the Snake - Chinese Art Exhibition, organized by the Australian Chinese Women's Federation Inc. (ACWF) and supported by the Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC), is now open at the

Robina Community Art Gallery, offering visitors a glimpse into the creativity of five talented Chinese artists.

The exhibition showcases an array of exceptional paintings, with one of the featured artists being a young person, emphasizing the importance of

engaging the younger generation in cultural expression. ACWF has also encouraged Australian children to participate in this enriching cultural experience, allowing them to connect with Chinese heritage through art.

MCCGC team members, including Emily Clauss,

the Head of Business and Stakeholder Development, were present at the opening ceremony, which also saw the attendance of key dignitaries, including the Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs and International Student Attraction, Hermann Vorster MP, and

Division 11 Councillor Dan Doran.

The exhibition highlights the vibrant and diverse artistic talents within the Chinese community, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

Vietnamese Lunar New Year 2025 celebrated with health awareness initiatives

ECCQ teams provide vital health www.mccq.org.au

services at Richlands event

Brisbane, January 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Vietnamese Lunar New Year 2025 celebrations at Richlands were not only a vibrant celebration of culture but also an opportunity for health promotion, with the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) playing an active role in the festivities.

Despite the scorching heat, the event saw a strong turnout of locals from diverse communities joining the Vietnamese

community in celebrating the Lunar New Year. The ECCQ's chronic disease and love health teams were on hand to offer essential health services to the attendees.

The chronic disease team conducted a series of health checks, ensuring that participants could monitor and maintain their health, while the love health team carried out rapid testing for Hepatitis B and C. These vital services were part

of ECCQ’s ongoing commitment to promoting health and wellness within ethnic communities.

The collaboration between the Vietnamese community and ECCQ not only provided an opportunity to enjoy the cultural significance of the Lunar New Year but also highlighted the importance of health awareness and accessible healthcare services for diverse communities in Queensland.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Community spirit shines at MCCGC via cultural exchange, skill building & celebration Brisbane, January 23 (MCCQ Newsdesk) In December, Multicultural Communities Council Gold Coast (MCCGC) hosted a vibrant series of events and collaborations, fostering cultural exchange and community development.

Among the highlights was a visit from representatives of the Gold Coast Community Malaysian and Singaporean (GCCMAS) group, who met with MCCGC’s community development team at their Southport office.

Deb-B Seven and Rofina from GCCMAS explored MCCGC’s services and discussed opportunities for future collaboration.

They also shared traditional Malaysian and Singaporean dishes with MCCGC staff, providing a taste of their rich cultural heritage. GCCMAS, a group dedicated to connecting Malaysians, Singaporeans, and their families through events and mutual support, sees partnerships like these as vital for building stronger, self-sustainable community networks.

Empowering new Australians with life skills training

MCCGC also hosted a twoday Life Skills workshop in December for clients under the Settlement Engagement and Transition Support (SETS) and Humanitarian Settlement Program (HSP). The sessions aimed to help newly arrived refugees and migrants navigate life in Australia, covering essential topics such as housing, public transport, employment, and Australian laws.

Language Support Workers were on hand to assist participants, ensuring they felt comfortable and engaged despite language barriers. By providing practical skills and guidance, the workshops empower individuals to make informed decisions and adapt to their new environment with confidence.

Celebrating Palestinian heritage through embroidery The Palestinian community hosted its final embroidery circle for 2024 in MCCGC’s Southport office, marking the culmination of months of creativity, connection, and cultural pride. These fortnightly gatherings provided a nurturing space for women

to practice tatreez (traditional Palestinian embroidery), share stories, and enjoy Palestinian hospitality with traditional cuisine and music.

The circles, open to women of all backgrounds, fostered cross-cultural connections and a deeper appreciation of Palestinian art and heritage. Participants expressed gratitude to facilitators Victoria and Brooke, as well as MCCGC, for their unwavering support. Through this initiative, women found a creative outlet and formed meaningful bonds while celebrating the richness of Palestinian culture.

Year-end celebrations and conferences December also saw MCCGC celebrating the achievements of its English Social Group in Palm Beach. Students expressed gratitude in English, adding personal touches by sharing words in their native languages, including Portuguese, German, Spanish, and Arabic.

Additionally, MCCGC played a significant role in the 2024 Break the Patterns Conference, hosted by the Multicultural Families

Organisation Inc.-SARA Program and the Domestic Violence Prevention Centre. As part of the planning committee, MCCGC contributed to discussions on improving systemic responses and addressing intersectional barriers faced by culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women and families experiencing domestic violence.

Milestones, creativity & digital skills December was a month of personal achievements and creative exploration. MCCGC’s Care Finder Navigator, Kim, was officially sworn in as a Justice of the Peace ( JP) at the Southport Courthouse. This milestone enables her to assist the community with legal processes, such as certifying documents and witnessing signatures, ensuring fairness and accessibility for all.

MCCGC also hosted a Christmas Terrarium workshop during the Women’s Social Group, offering participants a relaxed morning of meditation and creative expression. Attendees reflected on gratitude while designing festive terrariums, adding a

personal and seasonal touch.

Additionally, settlement clients participated in the Digital Sisters workshop, learning essential digital skills like navigating Google Maps, identifying online scams, and staying safe online through the eSafety website.

The initiative introduced the Be Connected Digital Sisters project, helping participants build confidence in navigating the digital world.

Building a stronger, inclusive community The diverse range of events and initiatives at MCCGC in December underscores the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusion, empowering individuals, and celebrating cultural heritage. From skill-building workshops to cultural exchanges, MCCGC continues to make a meaningful impact in the Gold Coast community, ensuring that every individual feels supported, valued, and connected.

Source: MCCGC Newsletter January 2025

New leadership for Queensland African Communities Council

Outgoing president Beny Bol praised for leadership, incoming team welcomed Brisbane, January 28 (MCCQ Newsdesk) The Queensland African Communities Council (QACC) ushered in a new era of leadership on January 26, 2025, with an official handover and inauguration ceremony for its new Executive Management Committee.

The event recognized the contributions of the outgoing leadership team, led by President Beny Bol, while welcoming incoming President Faysel Ahmed Selat and his team. The transition marks an important www.mccq.org.au

step in QACC’s ongoing efforts to advocate for and support African communities across Queensland.

Dr. John Bosco Ngendakurio, Acting Head of the Peak Body of Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ), commended Beny Bol’s leadership in a Facebook post, highlighting his self-awareness, credibility, and integrity. “His ability to empower individuals around him, build and retain relationships, has made a huge difference within the African communities and beyond, as expressed by several speakers during the event,” Dr.

Ngendakurio wrote.

Looking ahead, ECCQ reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside QACC under the leadership of Faysel Ahmed Selat, expressing confidence in the new team’s ability to build on past successes and further strengthen African community representation in Queensland.

The inauguration ceremony not only celebrated leadership but also reinforced the importance of collaboration between multicultural organizations in advocating for community needs and fostering social cohesion.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Brisbane welcomes 500 new citizens in Australia Day ceremony Brisbane, January 26 (MCCQ Newsdesk) Brisbane hosted its largest citizenship ceremony on Australia Day, welcoming 500 new citizens from 70 countries at City Hall. The event highlights Brisbane’s diversity and multicultural spirit, with India (88), New Zealand (63), China (33), South Africa (15), and Taiwan (15) being the top countries of origin for the new Australians.

The ceremony, the first of 11 scheduled for Brisbane City Hall in 2025, reflects the city’s ongoing growth as a global hub. Last year, more than 7,000 Brisbane residents became Australian citizens, underscoring its reputation as a welcoming and inclusive city. Each new citizen

will receive a certificate, a gift bag, and a native plant seedling as part of the celebration.

Attendees will also hear the inspiring stories of recipients of the 2025 Lord Mayor’s Australia Day Awards. Lynn Atkinson, named Citizen of the Year, was recognized for 40 years of service in youth development, founding three charities to support vulnerable young people.

Michael Flanagan, Senior Citizen of the Year, was honoured for his 37 years as a Justice of the Peace, volunteering in hospitals, nursing homes, and assisting police investigations.

Jessica Hernandez, Young Citizen of the Year, was celebrated for her leadership in Scouts Queensland and volunteering

for causes like the Red Cross Emergency Services. Other award winners include Brook Monahan (Corporate Citizen of the Year), Ingrid James (Cultural/ Arts Award), and Glen Brown (Sports Award).

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner expressed his pride in welcoming Brisbane’s newest citizens, stating, “For many, this ceremony marks the culmination of a long road to becoming Australians.

It’s an absolute honour to see them choose Brisbane as their home for its lifestyle, hospitality, and embrace of diversity.”

The Australia Day Citizenship Ceremony took place on January 26, 2025, at City Hall in Brisbane CBD, celebrating unity and the contributions of the city’s vibrant multicultural community.

ECCQ joins GOPIO & Indian Consulate for soft launch of 2025 Convention Brisbane, January 30 (MCCQ Newsdesk) On 29 January 2025, the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO), in collaboration with the Consulate General of India in Brisbane, hosted a soft launch for the GOPIO International Convention/Conference 2025.

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The highly anticipated event, scheduled for 28-30 March at the Brisbane Marriot, promises to be a landmark occasion for the Indian diaspora and global communities.

The Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ) was part of this launch. ECCQ’s

involvement underscores its ongoing commitment to supporting multicultural initiatives and strengthening connections among ethnic communities in Queensland.

The upcoming conference will feature networking opportunities, workshops, and insightful

discussions with global leaders.

Topics will focus on shaping the future of both GOPIO and the wider Indian diaspora, aiming to foster growth, collaboration, and empowerment.

With an exciting lineup of prominent speakers, the conference will be a valuable

occasion for attendees to deepen their engagement with the Indian community and broader international networks. Organizers are encouraging everyone to show support by booking tickets online, as this event promises to be a defining moment for strengthening community ties.

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OCEANIA

Australian PM commits $1.2 billion to Australian PM promises incentivise green aluminum production cash incentives for con-

Canberra, Jan 20 (IANS) Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday announced a 2-billion-Australian-dollar (1.24 billion US dollars) plan to incentivise aluminium smelters to transition to renewable power.

The funding will be used for a scheme that will pay aluminium smelters for every ton of the metal produced using renewable electricity over a 10-year period

to 2036, reports Xinhua news agency.

He said that investing in the local aluminium industry is a "massive opportunity" to create jobs and set Australia up for the future.

"We've got the resources, the workers, and the know-how -- the only thing we don't have is time to waste," Albanese said. "We are building Australia's future, not taking Australia backwards."

The new scheme was announced at the smelter of Tomago Aluminium, Australia's largest producer of the metal and the country's largest electricity consumer.

According to Tomago, the company accounts for 10 per cent

of all electricity consumption in New South Wales, Australia's most populous state, and electricity consumption makes up about 40 per cent of its costs.

Tomago in 2021 announced it was aiming to transition to almost 100 per cent renewable energy by 2029, but chief executive Jerome Dozol said last November that the goal was not achievable.

The Australian Prime Minister has made renewable energy a key policy point ahead of the 2025 general election, which must be held by May. His Labor Party government has set a goal of 82 per cent of Australia's electricity coming from renewable sources by 2030.

Australia: Scientists advocate for tagging, monitoring program to reduce shark attack risk

Canberra, Jan 20 (IANS) Scientists have called for acoustic technology to track white sharks off the coast of South Australia (SA) to prevent attacks on humans.

Four people have died in shark attacks at South Australian beaches since May 2023, including 28-year-old surfer Lance Appleby who was killed by a suspected great white shark earlier this month, reports Xinhua news agency.

The spate of attacks has prompted scientists to advocate for deploying acoustic technology at

popular beaches across the SA coast to monitor tagged white sharks.

Over 200 white sharks have already been tagged in waters off the SA coast as part of a monitoring program for the diving industry.

The tags emit a unique sound pulse that is detected by underwater receivers, which in turn transmit the location data via satellite.

A small number of receivers have already been deployed along the coastline of Adelaide, SA's capital, for research purposes, but shark expert Charlie Huveneers from Flinders University said that they could be used more widely to reduce the risk of shark attacks.

He said the real-time receivers could be used to notify the public and authorities when a shark is nearby.

"This information can be used by the public to be better informed about the risk of shark bites and to leave the water when a potentially dangerous shark is nearby," he told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

Russ Bradford from national science agency the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) said the east coast state of New South Wales (NSW) spent approximately 20 million Australian dollars ($12.4 million) over the last 10 years tagging sharks and installing acoustic receivers.

He told ABC that a similar program in SA could be useful alerting water users to the presence of a shark.

According to the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, the state's shark tagging program is estimated to be the largest in the world. In 2023, the 37 acoustic receivers along the NSW coast recorded 62,835 shark detections, 34,929 of which were great white sharks.

A spokesperson for the state government of SA told the ABC that expanding SA's acoustic receiver program for the purpose of reducing the risk of shark bites would be inefficient and impractical due to the length of the state's coastline.

struction apprentices

Canberra, Jan 24 (IANS) Australia's Prime Minister has promised cash incentives for apprentices who work in residential construction as part of a push to build more homes.

Anthony Albanese announced the election policy in his first major speech of 2025 to the National Press Club on Friday, saying that it would aid the next generation of trades workers -- commonly known as 'tradies' in Australia - while providing a boost to the construction workforce.

Under the 626.9 million Australian dollar (395.4 million US dollar) policy, trades apprentices working in residential construction would receive 10,000 AUD (6,308 USD) in five installments over the course of their apprenticeship.

"We recognise the next generation of tradies, the people we're counting on to build the new homes we need, are under significant financial pressure," Albanese said.

"Too many leave training because they can't afford to stay. Our government wants to encourage more Australians to get on the tools - and stay in construction."

Albanese's Labour Party government in 2023 set a goal of building 1.2 million new homes in Australia over a five-year period to 2029 to ease the country's housing affordability crisis.

The industry body Master Builders Association on Wednesday said that construction began on 165,000 new homes in the 12-month period to September 2024, Xinhua news agency reported.

Denita Wawn, Chief Executive of the association, said that at the current pace, 825,000 new homes will be built over the five-year period.

An advisory group of industry leaders set up by Albanese's government said that achieving the 1.2 million goal would require an extra 90,000 residential construction workers.

Canberra’s Australia Day drone shows delayed due to risk to threatened bats

New Zealand’s annual inflation sees slower increase at 2.2 per cent

Wellington, Jan 22 (IANS) New Zealand's Consumers Price Index (CPI) increased 2.2 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2024, following a 2.2 per cent annual increase in the third quarter of 2024, both being slower increases, according to the statistics department Stats NZ on Wednesday.

"Prices are still rising, but not as much as previously recorded," Stats NZ prices and deflators spokesperson Nicola Growden said, adding the most recent peak was in the second quarter of 2022 when the annual inflation rate reached 7.3 per cent.

"This is the second consecutive

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quarter that the annual inflation rate has been within the Reserve Bank of New Zealand's target band of 1 to 3 per cent," Growden said, adding the annual inflation was above the target band between the second quarter of 2021 and second quarter of 2024.

Almost a fifth of the 2.2 per cent annual increase in the CPI was due to rent prices, which was up 4.2 per cent, the largest contributor to the annual inflation, she said, adding the annual rent inflation ranged between 4.2 per cent and 4.8 per cent between the fourth quarter 2023 and the fourth quarter 2024, continuing to grow at a consistent rate.

The 2.2 per cent annual inflation increase also included a 16 per cent contribution from local authority rates and payments, which increased 12.2 per cent in the 12 months to the fourth quarter of 2024, statistics show, reports Xinhua news agency.

Cigarettes and tobacco prices contributed 11 per cent to the 2.2 per cent annual CPI increase,

up 7.6 per cent in the 12 months to the fourth quarter of 2024, mainly due to the annual tobacco excise tax increase on January 1, 2024.

The latest rising inflation was offset by lower petrol prices, which were down 9.2 per cent, partially due to the removal of the Auckland regional fuel tax of 10 cents per litre on June 30, 2024, Growden said, adding petrol makes up about 4 per cent of the CPI basket.

"If petrol was excluded, the CPI would have increased 2.7 per cent in the 12 months to December 2024," she said, adding lower prices for vegetables, down 14.6 per cent, also offset the annual CPI increase.

Quarterly, the CPI rose 0.5 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2024, compared with the previous quarter, mainly contributed by prices for international air transport, which was up 6.6 per cent, according to Stats NZ.

Canberra, Jan 24 (IANS) Planned drone shows to celebrate Australia Day in the nation's capital have had their start time pushed back to prevent harm to a population of threatened bats.

The population of about 2,500 grey-headed flying foxes -- an endemic species listed as vulnerable to extinction by the federal government -- live in Canberra's Commonwealth Park on the shore of Lake Burley Griffin between October and June.

Each night at around 8:45 pm local time, the bats leave the park en masse to feed on fruit.

That nightly phenomenon has prompted authorities to delay the drone shows over the lake due to concerns for the welfare of the bats.

The first show in 2024 was delayed from its scheduled start time of 8:30 pm local time because there were too many flying foxes in the air.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Wildlife warned that a significant number of drones in the path of the bats could be dangerous.

Stephen Barton from ACT Wildlife told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on Friday that spectators reported seeing flying foxes hit drones during the 2024 shows but that no bats were killed.

As a precaution, the 2025 shows will run at 9 pm and 10 pm each night between Friday and Sunday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Each performance will feature 600 drones showing unique designs to celebrate Australia's native flora, fauna and the country's history.

Australia Day is celebrated annually on January 26 to mark the anniversary of the 1788 landing of the British First Fleet at Sydney Cove.

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OUR TAKE

Feb 2025 - Vol 1 Issue 13

Balancing the promise and peril of AI: Charting a path towards universal education

Remembering the Holocaust

A call for humanism and education against prejudice

January 27 stands as a solemn reminder of one of the darkest chapters in human history: the Holocaust. On this day, we commemorate the millions of victims who perished in Nazi concentration camps during World War II. More than a historical reflection, this day serves as a clarion call for humanity to unite against prejudice, racism, and the dehumanization that led to such atrocities. As the world faces a resurgence of hateful rhetoric, the lessons of the Holocaust are more urgent than ever, especially for younger generations.

This editorial is based on the article titled “We have a duty to stand against intolerance”: UN human rights chief, published on news.un.org on January 26, 2025. The piece highlights the importance of commemorating the victims of the Holocaust while addressing the persistent dangers of antisemitism and the need for proactive education in humanism and universality.

The Holocaust, with its systematic extermination of six million Jews and countless others deemed "undesirable," exemplifies the catastrophic consequences of prejudice and dehumanization. It is a stark reminder of what happens when diversity is perceived as a threat rather than a strength. As the UN rights chief, Volker Türk, recently pointed out, the world risks "sleepwalking into a grim future where human rights and dignity are denied, stripped away, or forgotten."

This warning is not merely rhetorical. Rising antisemitism, both online and offline, and increasing instances of intolerance worldwide signal a dangerous erosion of the values that form the bedrock of human coexistence. These trends reveal how easily societies can succumb to the same forces of hatred and division that fueled the Holocaust.

Holocaust education is indispensable in combating these threats. As Mr. Türk aptly noted, it remains "one of the best vaccines against dehumanization."

Educating young people about the Holocaust is not just about recounting historical facts; it is about instilling the values of empathy, tolerance, and respect for diversity.

Through deliberate teaching of humanism, schools and communities can help students understand the consequences of prejudice and the importance of standing against injustice. By sharing the stories of Holocaust survivors, educators can foster a personal connection to this history, ensuring that it www.mccq.org.au

resonates on a human level.

The lessons of the Holocaust extend far beyond the Jewish community. They underscore the universal need to protect human rights and dignity for all. This is why Holocaust education must emphasize the interconnectedness of humanity.

It should inspire individuals to celebrate diversity and reject any ideology that seeks to divide and dehumanize.

In today's globalized world, where cultural and religious differences are increasingly politicized, teaching the value of universality is critical. Youth, in particular, must be equipped with the tools to critically analyze disinformation and resist narratives that promote fear and hatred.

Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor and Nobel laureate, once said, "Silence encourages the tormentor." This poignant reminder underscores the importance of speaking out against all forms of hatred. Antisemitism, bigotry, and intolerance thrive in environments where they go unchallenged.

Leaders, educators, and individuals alike must take a stand.

Condemning acts of hatred is not enough; proactive steps must be taken to foster solidarity and compassion. The world must move beyond performative gestures and commit to tangible actions that promote inclusion and equality.

The relevance of Holocaust Remembrance Day is magnified by the challenges of our contemporary world. From the rise of neo-Nazi movements to the scapegoating of minority communities, the dangers of prejudice are far from eradicated. In fact, technological advancements have amplified the reach of hateful rhetoric, making it more insidious than ever before.

This underscores the need for a robust response rooted in education and policy.

Governments must implement curricula that prioritize human rights education and support initiatives that counter hate speech. At the same time, international organizations must work collaboratively to address the root causes of intolerance, including economic inequality and social polarization.

Holocaust Remembrance Day is not just a day for mourning; it is a call to action. It reminds us that the fight against hatred and prejudice is a collective responsibility. Every individual has a role to play in creating a world where such atrocities are unimaginable.

As the number of Holocaust

OPINION

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a revolutionary force in education, promising to bridge learning gaps and empower students and teachers worldwide. However, as with any transformative technology, it brings with it a dual-edged sword—one that must be wielded responsibly to harness its potential while mitigating its risks. The recent observations made by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UNESCO on the International Day of Education highlight this critical juncture in humanity's relationship with AI. On one hand, AI has the capability to revolutionize learning, making quality education accessible to millions. On the other, it poses profound ethical, societal, and human rights challenges that demand immediate attention.

The promise of AI in education is undeniable. In high-income nations, AI-powered tools are already supporting students in their learning journeys. These technologies enable personalized instruction, adaptive learning experiences, and real-time feedback. For educators, AI offers advanced tools for managing classrooms, evaluating student progress, and tailoring lessons to individual needs. Such innovations can make education more efficient, inclusive, and accessible. In regions where educational resources are scarce, AI could be a game-changer, bringing high-quality content and teaching to remote areas and underserved communities.

Yet, this promise comes with significant challenges. As Guterres emphasized, the alignment between human intentions and machine-driven impacts is not guaranteed. Without careful oversight, AI could exacerbate existing inequalities rather than diminish them. For instance, while two-thirds of secondary school students in high-income nations leverage AI tools, many in low-income regions still struggle to access basic educational resources. This growing digital divide risks creating a two-tiered educational system, where some benefit from cutting-edge survivors dwindles, the responsibility to preserve their stories and lessons falls to younger generations. This is a sacred duty, one that requires dedication and vigilance. The testimonies of survivors must continue to serve as a powerful reminder of what is at stake when humanity fails to uphold its moral and ethical principles.

The central theme of this year’s Holocaust remembrance—dignity and human rights—captures the essence of what January 27 should represent. It is a day to honor the victims, celebrate

technologies while others are left behind.

Moreover, AI's potential for misuse cannot be overlooked.

Without ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks, the deployment of AI in education could infringe on privacy, reinforce biases, and undermine human agency. UNESCO's survey revealing that only 10 percent of schools and universities have an official framework for AI use underscores the urgent need for governance in this area. Left unchecked, AI could inadvertently perpetuate discrimination, misinformation, and surveillance in educational settings.

A balanced approach is essential. First and foremost, AI's integration into education must prioritize human rights and ethical principles. As highlighted

by Audrey Azoulay, DirectorGeneral of UNESCO, AI should complement the human and social dimensions of learning rather than replace them. The role of educators remains irreplaceable; technology should enhance their efforts, not diminish their significance.

Investments in teacher training and awareness are crucial to ensure that AI is used responsibly and effectively in classrooms.

Furthermore, equitable access to AI-driven educational tools must be a global priority. Bridging the digital divide requires targeted policies and investments to provide infrastructure, internet connectivity, and devices to underserved communities. By democratizing access to AI technologies, we can help ensure that all children, regardless of their socioeconomic background, have the opportunity to benefit from innovative learning solutions.

Education professionals also need clear guidelines to navigate the complexities of AI in classrooms. The development of comprehensive frameworks, such as UNESCO's Competency Frameworks and the Global Digital Compact, offers a roadmap for integrating AI responsibly. These guidelines should address critical issues like data privacy, ethical considerations, and the prevention of algorithmic biases. Collaborative efforts between governments, educational institutions, and tech companies will be pivotal in crafting policies that balance innovation with accountability.

The broader context of education reminds us of the pressing challenges that still plague millions of children worldwide. According to UNESCO, 251 million children and youth remain out of school due to factors such as

gender inequality, conflict, and poverty. While AI alone cannot solve these systemic issues, it can play a significant role in addressing them. For example, AI-powered platforms can offer remote learning opportunities to children in conflict zones, personalized tutoring for marginalized communities, and language support for non-native speakers. When deployed strategically, AI can help fulfill the goal of universal education by overcoming barriers that traditional methods often struggle to surmount.

However, the integration of AI into education must also account for the well-being of students.

UNESCO's recent study revealed alarming statistics about violence and cyberbullying in schools, highlighting the urgent need for safe and inclusive learning environments. As educational systems incorporate AI, safeguards must be put in place to protect students from online harassment and ensure their mental health and security.

Ethical AI frameworks should include robust measures to prevent cyberbullying and promote digital citizenship.

The International Day of Education serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of learning as a fundamental human right. By leveraging AI's merits responsibly and addressing its demerits proactively, we can create an educational ecosystem that uplifts individuals and societies alike. However, this vision requires a collective commitment to keeping humanity at the center of technological advancements. Policymakers, educators, and tech innovators must work together to ensure that AI serves as a tool for empowerment, not exploitation.

In conclusion, the dangers of unbridled AI use in education are real and pressing, but so too are the opportunities it offers.

Striking a balance between these forces is imperative for shaping a future where every child, regardless of circumstance, can access quality education. As Guterres aptly stated, education is the foundation for individual and societal growth. By guiding AI's development with ethical principles and human rights at its core, we can fulfill the promise of universal education and create a world where technology serves as a catalyst for equality and progress. Let us commit to this vision with the urgency and determination it demands.

resilience, and reaffirm our commitment to building a future rooted in justice and equality.

To achieve this, we must go beyond commemoration. We must invest in education, promote policies that foster inclusion, and stand against any ideology that seeks to undermine the values of humanism. Only by doing so can we ensure that the horrors of the Holocaust are never repeated.

January 27 is a day of remembrance, but it is also a day of resolve. It calls on us to remember the victims of the Holocaust while committing to a

future where such atrocities are impossible. By educating youth about the importance of humanism and universality, we can counter the forces of prejudice and racism that continue to threaten our world.

In the words of António Guterres, the UN SecretaryGeneral, “Diversity is a richness, never a threat.” Let this be the guiding principle as we honor the memory of the Holocaust victims and work toward a just, compassionate, and inclusive world.

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African youth, driving force for development consumption is high due of world’s ‘youngest’ continent fuel to the mountainous roads. Her

Nairobi, Jan 19 (IANS) On a sleek train between Nairobi and Mombasa, young stewards warmly welcome passengers. In the bustling Sino-Uganda Mbale Industrial Park, young workers proudly produce goods stamped with "Made in Africa." In Nigeria, young employees efficiently manage parcel deliveries at a booming e-commerce logistics hub.

Across the continent, young people are not just participants, they are catalysts accelerating Africa's transformation, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the African Union (AU) and the African Development Bank, Africa is home to the youngest population in the world, with over 400 million people aged 15 to 35 and its youth population is expected to surpass 830 million by 2050.

This demographic, fueled by the digital revolution and a shift toward green energy, is unlocking new opportunities on the continent.

By collaborating with global partners like China, African nations are tapping into this demographic dividend, empowering their youth to shape a brighter, more innovative future.

According to Statista, an international data and business intelligence platform, Africa's total population exceeded 1.46 billion as of 2023 and is projected to reach about 2.5 billion by 2050.

In "AI and the Future of Work in Africa White Paper," Microsoft estimated that by the end of the 21st century, Africa will be home to almost half of the world's youth population, nearly twice the entire population of Europe.

The strong presence of young workers is invigorating traditional sectors such as agriculture, industry and services while accelerating the development of emerging sectors like the digital economy, and renewable energy and artificial intelligence (AI). Furthermore, these young generations serve as a major consumption force, contributing to the growing attraction of the African market.

Youth are a crucial driving force for Africa's socio-economic development, said Liu Tiannan, associate professor at the French Department of Foreign Languages Faculty and director of the African Studies Institute at the University of International Relations in China.

"The youth bulge in Africa could prove to be the regions' most valuable asset moving forward" as other regions of the world grapple with population ageing and labour shortages, said the International Labour Organization in its report titled "Global Employment Trends for Youth 2024."

At Yaxare, an herbal tea company based in the Gambian capital Banjul, 33-year-old founder Fatoumata Njie oversees the packaging of her products, which have gained popularity among local consumers largely due to the integration of digital technologies in her business management.

To enhance the quality and yield of local medicinal herbs, Njie developed a mobile application called "Happy Farm," helping farmers improve soil quality and boost harvests. Meanwhile, she regularly orders packaging and tea processing equipment from e-commerce platforms to deliver attractive, high-quality products to her customers.

Thanks to digital transformation, the daily lives of many young Africans like Njie are undergoing a significant shift. Across the continent, e-commerce and digital finance are making impressive strides, while mobile payments are rapidly expanding.

As communication infrastructure continues to improve, new job and entrepreneurial opportunities are increasing for Africa's youth.

Meanwhile, more young Africans are increasingly engaging in the energy transition, particularly amid the escalating threat of climate change. They are driving innovation in energy technologies and supporting the electrification of rural areas, helping steer the continent toward a green economy.

Doreen Orishaba, managing director at BasiGo, a Kenyan company specializing in new-energy vehicles, has spent over a year promoting Chinese electric buses in Rwanda, where fuel imports are expensive and

efforts have raised awareness among local bus operators about the environmental and economic benefits of these vehicles, prompting their order of more than a hundred electric buses.

"For every bus BasiGO puts on a Rwandan road, we are helping mitigate up to 30 tons of CO2 emissions," she said.

Liu said that for Africa's youth potential to become a true demographic dividend, it is essential to improve the education system, enhance skill development, expand employment opportunities and promote entrepreneurship among young people.

Henok Amanuel Emiru, a 26-year-old Ethiopian student, never imagined he would win the highest distinction among African candidates at the Belt and Road International Skills Competition hosted in southwest China's Chongqing Municipality last June.

This success is the result of training at the Ethiopian Luban Workshop, designated by the AU Headquarters as a high-quality skill-training centre for the entire African continent.

Through the shared expertise of his instructors, Emiru gained a mastery of techniques at the vocational training workshop.

The Luban Workshop is just a microcosm of Sino-African cooperation in youth education.

Over the next three years, China will continue implementing Future of Africa, a project for China-Africa cooperation on vocational education, building schools of engineering technology with African countries, establishing or upgrading 10 Luban Workshops and 20 schools, and providing training opportunities with programs for youth development.

African countries are also making efforts to empower youth through tailored development programs, such as Morocco's government plan to invest 14 billion Moroccan dirhams (1.4 billion U.S. dollars) in youth employment, Senegal's National Youth Development Program 2025-2029, and Zambia's digital and green skills training projects until 2027.

"Together, we can build a continent where young people are at the forefront of innovation, governance and sustainable development," said Chido Mpemba, the AU youth envoy.

71,000 deaths related to Somalia’s 2022 drought: Report

Mogadishu, Jan 22 (IANS) An estimated 71,000 people may have died between January 2022 and June 2024 due to the devastating drought that affected large parts of Somalia in 2022, according to a report released Wednesday in Somalia's capital, Mogadishu.

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The report, launched by Somalia's Ministry of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), revealed that about 40 per cent of these "excess" deaths were children under the age of five.

The study, titled "From Insight to Action: An Update on Mortality Patterns in Somalia," noted that most of the excess deaths occurred in the south-central regions of the country, while the northeast regions experienced relatively low mortality despite high food insecurity.

This report offers a comprehensive analysis of the impact of droughts on population mortality over a 30-month period, which includes the 2022 drought that affected 7.9 million people, nearly half of Somalia's population, and brought the nation to the brink of famine.

UNICEF Representative in Somalia Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef emphasised the severe and lasting impact of climate change on vulnerable Somali families.

"Given the recurring nature of climate-induced crises, we must also scale up investments in community resilience to future shocks, anticipatory action, and prevention of disease outbreaks," Saeed said.

AFRICA

1.8 million Kenyans face food insecurity as arid areas bear brunt

Nairobi, Jan 21 (IANS) The number of Kenyans facing food insecurity and requiring humanitarian assistance remains alarmingly high at 1.8 million, with arid regions continuing to bear the severe effects of climate change, the National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) said Tuesday.

The NDMA said in a report released in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, that those affected are mainly in the 23 arid and semi-arid counties of the East African nation.

"The counties of Wajir, Garissa, Turkana, Marsabit, and Mandera have the highest proportions of food insecure populations," said the government agency responsible for mitigating drought effects.

The institution noted that the number of affected people has leveled at 1.8 million since November 2024, with levels of acute malnutrition remaining elevated in several arid counties, including Mandera, Marsabit, Samburu, Baringo, and Turkana.

Some 479,498 children aged six to 59 months as well as 110,169 pregnant and breastfeeding mothers were currently acutely malnourished and in need of

urgent treatment, according to the NDMA, Xinhua news agency reported.

NDMA observed that the worsening nutrition trend in affected counties resulted from inadequate and unbalanced food intake due to high poverty and disease prevalence.

According to NDMA, the number of people in need of humanitarian assistance in Kenya stood at 1.8 million in December 2024.

In a report issued in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, the NDMA said that the figure increased from a million in July 2024, following a "drought phase" especially in the 23 arid and semi-arid regions of the East African nation.

The agency noted that some 39 per cent of the arid counties reported a nutrition situation worse than usual at this time of year, which could be attributed to the limited number of outreach activities delivering essential nutrition services coupled with the high morbidity rates.

Among regions with cases of malnutrition are Baringo, Turkana, Kitui, Laikipia, Lamu, Makueni and West Pokot, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier, a report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development showed that the number of food-insecure people in the Horn of Africa stood at 64.8 million as of November, with climate shocks being the primary drivers.

UN provides 33.3-mln-USD humanitarian support to Somalia in 2024

Mogadishu, Jan 21 (IANS) The United Nations (UN) relief agency said Tuesday that 33.3 million US dollars have been allocated for life-saving humanitarian assistance in Somalia in 2024.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the funds allocated by the Somalia Humanitarian Fund (SHF) have focused on life-saving interventions targeted at underserved and hard-to-reach areas.

The OCHA said the funds have enabled 58 humanitarian partners to provide immediate response to predicted flooding, devastating drought conditions, and the need to enhance safety, security, and coordination.

The OCHA said the SHF had allocated funds through three reserve allocations and one standard allocation, complemented by three Central Emergency Response Fund allocations amounting to 10 million dollars that offered critical resources to respond to the cholera outbreak, provided urgent response to displacement, and helped

mitigate the impact of projected below-average rains and La Nina conditions. According to the OCHA, the 25-million-dollar standard allocation piloted the Integrated Response Framework and implemented multi-sectoral responses to prevent the deterioration in the severity of needs.

It added that the inclusion of women and girls and people with disabilities is ensured in every allocation, noting that 90 percent of the projects contribute in various ways to gender equality, Xinhua news agency reported.

The SHF is a multi-donor, country-based pooled fund, established to support the timely allocation and disbursement of donor resources to address the most urgent humanitarian needs.

Earlier this month, the World Food Programme (WFP) announced that it requires $254.7 million in net funding to enhance humanitarian assistance in Somalia until May, with roughly 5.98 million people forecast to need aid by then. "The humanitarian situation remains critical due to anticipated poor rainfall, drier conditions, and persistent armed conflict," the WFP said in its humanitarian report, highlighting an urgent funding gap of $242.4 million for life-saving humanitarian relief and nutrition assistance.

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Seoul shares turn lower amid rising woes over US protectionism

Seoul, Jan 21 (IANS) South Korean stocks turned lower on Tuesday after new US President Donald Trump ordered his administration to address unfair trade practices globally.

Opening some 1 per cent higher, the benchmark Korea Composite Stock Price Index had lost 9.26 points, or 0.37 percent, to 2,510.79 as of 11:20 a.m, reports Yonhap news agency.

After the inauguration ceremony, Trump said he plans to enact tariffs of as much as 25 per cent on Mexico and Canada at the beginning of February.

He also vowed a change in electric vehicle policies in his

inauguration address.

Later, he signed executive orders to review free trade deals, likely including the Korea-U.S. free trade agreement.

In Seoul, battery and chemical shares traded in negative territory.

Leading battery maker LG Energy Solution tumbled 5.4 per cent, and POSCO Future M plunged 10.33 per cent.

Top oil refinery SK Innovation slumped 4.4 per cent, and LG Chem sank 5.35 per cent.

However, chipmakers were strong as chip giant SK hynix advanced 1.42 per cent and Hanmi Semiconductor, a chip equipment producer, gained 2.22 per cent.

The local currency was trading at 1,439.35 won against the greenback at 11:20 a.m., up 11.25 won from the previous session.

Meanwhile, Trade Minister Cheong In-kyo will seek close consultations with

his counterparts on ways to respond to trade policies under the second Donald Trump administration during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

Cheong will participate in the annual meeting of government and business leaders under the theme of "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age" from Wednesday to Friday (local time) to discuss pending global issues, according to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy.

More than 350 government leaders and officials, as well as business leaders, are expected to attend the five-day event that began Monday, the ministry said in a release.

With President Trump taking office, the trade minister will meet with his counterparts from countries that share similar concerns over their trade relations with the United States to discuss ways to collaborate, it added.

South Korea: Military commanders linked to martial law case dismissed from positions

Seoul, Jan 20 (IANS) The South Korea military on Monday approved the official dismissal of four senior commanders suspected of taking part in impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived martial imposition from their positions.

The decision made at disciplinary committees of the defence ministry and the Army, respectively, affects Lt. Gen. Yeo In-hyung, head of the Defence Counterintelligence Command; Maj. Gen. Moon Sang-ho, head of the Defence Intelligence Command; Lt. Gen. Lee Jin-woo, head of the Capital Defence Command; and Lt. Gen. Kwak Jong-keun, chief of the Army Special Warfare Command, according to the ministry.

The commanders are suspected

of taking part in martial law operations during Yoon's botched martial law bid on December 3.

The move is expected to go into effect on Tuesday, when the ministry will officially notify the four commanders of the decision.

The ministry is currently conducting a legal review of possible disciplinary measures for Army Chief of Staff Gen. Park An-su, who served as martial law commander.

All four commanders, alongside Park, have been suspended from their duties and indicted with physical detention over their alleged connections to the martial law bid.

Moon is suspected of sending troops to the National Election Commission's office in

Gwacheon, south of Seoul, on the night of December 3, and discussing martial law operations in advance, while Yeo is also suspected of the same charges as well as ordering the arrest of key politicians.

Lee is accused of ordering the deployment of troops to the National Assembly and ordering them to enter the National Assembly building and drag out lawmakers, Yonhap news agency reported.

Kwak is similarly accused of sending special operations forces to the National Assembly under orders from Yoon to secure the building and prevent lawmakers from passing a motion to reject martial law.

Earlier in the day, South Korean Police made another unsuccessful attempt to search the Presidential Security Service (PSS) and a presidential safe house as part of their investigation into President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law bid.

China unveils logos for three space missions in 2025

Beijing, Jan 20 (IANS) The China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) on Monday unveiled logos for three key missions in China's manned space programme this year.

The logos were for the launches of the crewed spaceships Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21, and the cargo craft Tianzhou-9, Xinhua news agency reported.

According to the CMSA, these new logos symbolise the courage and determination of Chinese astronauts and their commitment to exploring the mysteries of the universe. A logo has been designed for each manned mission since China's first

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manned spaceflight Shenzhou-5 in 2003.

The CMSA has opened logo solicitation for the country's space missions since 2023 and has maintained this approach since then. As per the CMSA, crews for the Shenzhou-20 and Shenzhou-21 missions will consist of three astronauts each.

Shenzhou-20 is set to dock with the radial port of the space station's core module, while Shenzhou-21 will dock with its front port.

The main tasks of the astronauts will include extravehicular activities, cargo outbound deliveries via the station's cargo airlock module, and the conducting of space science experiments and technology tests. In the second half of 2025, China plans to launch the Tianzhou-9 cargo spacecraft from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in its southern

Hainan Province.This mission will deliver supplies for astronauts, propellants to ensure the space station's operation, various types of payloads, and more.

China's manned space station project has entered its application and development stage -- with two manned spacecraft missions and one to two cargo missions planned annually.

Meanwhile, the Shenzhou-19 crew members, currently onboard China's space station will conduct their second extravehicular activities (EVAs) within the next few days, the CMSA said recently. Since completing their first spacewalk on December 17, 2024, the crew has undertaken a series of tasks, including inspections and maintenance of the space station's equipment, sytem-wide pressure emergency drills, and preparations for the second EVAs.

EAST ASIA

Japan urges continued caution on potential tremors, tsunamis

Tokyo, Jan 20 (IANS) The Japan Meteorological Agency ( JMA) has called for continued caution over potential tremors and tsunamis despite a gradual decrease in seismic activity a week after the magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck the Kyushu region.

The earthquake caused a tremor measuring 5 Lower on the Japanese seismic intensity scale in Miyazaki City and other areas, generating a tsunami with a height of 20 centimetres.

Since the January 13 earthquake, 12 aftershocks measuring 1 or higher on the seismic intensity scale have been recorded by 11 am local time on Monday, national broadcaster NHK reported.

The JMA stated that seismic activity was highly active for three days following the initial quake but has since decreased.

While the likelihood of another tremor with a similar intensity of 5 Lower has diminished, residents are urged to maintain preparedness for both earthquakes and tsunamis, Xinhua news agency reported.

Last week, Japan's Aerospace Exploration Agency ( JAXA) signed an agreement with Kumamoto prefecture to further develop a programme that estimates building damage caused by earthquakes using satellite imagery, local media reported.

Under the partnership announced on Friday, JAXA will utilise approximately 200,000 data on building damage from the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake to refine and enhance the accuracy of its technology, which is expected to be deployed nationwide, Kyodo News reported.

The programme will compare satellite images taken before and after an earthquake to assess

the extent of structural damage within 2-3 hours of observation.

The programme can function effectively during nighttime and adverse weather conditions, according to the report.

JAXA anticipated the programme will be operational within a few years.

Last month, Japanese media reported that the Cabinet Office's disaster management division plans to assign designated officers to each prefecture starting next fiscal year as a preparation for possible major disasters such as a Nankai Trough megaquake or a Tokyo metropolitan earthquake.

The Cabinet Office is moving forward with plans to deploy approximately 50 officers across prefectures to focus on promoting stockpile management and volunteer collaboration in normal times while taking charge of assessing damage and organising evacuation shelters during disasters, Xinhua news agency reported.

To support the initiative, the Cabinet Office plans to double its current staff of 110 and seek a corresponding increase in its budget for the upcoming fiscal year, according to national broadcaster NHK, citing interviews with government officials.

The latest initiative is part of the broader goal of establishing a 'Disaster Management Agency' by fiscal year 2026. Recent disasters, such as the Noto Peninsula earthquake, revealed challenges such as limited supplies in municipal stockpiles and delays in setting up evacuation shelters in Japan. The Japanese Government has an emergency broadcasting system called 'J-Alert'. This system ensures that critical information reaches people in affected regions during various crisis, such as earthquakes, tsunamis, civil protection, and more. J-Alert employs various methods to communicate with the public. Besides, since 2007, smartphones have been installed with an earthquake early warning system that sounds an alarm immediately before an earthquake strikes.

North Korea condemns Japan’s opening of NATO mission as escalating regional military tension

Seoul, Jan 20 (IANS) North Korea on Monday denounced Japan's recent opening of a new diplomatic mission to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), accusing the country of dangerously escalating the military tension in the region.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) issued the criticism in an article attributed to an international security analyst, following Japan's formal inauguration of an independent mission to NATO last week to bolster cooperation.

"Japan set up its independent mission in NATO at a time when the security environment in the Asia-Pacific region is more

seriously threatened due to the US provocative military hegemony," the KCNA said. "This is a dangerous act of adding new instability to the regional situation."

The KCNA also accused Japan of "extremely escalating the military tension in the region" by tightening military cooperation with NATO, "pursuant to the US strategy for world domination to expand NATO's sphere of influence into the Asia-Pacific region."

It also called Japan "a war criminal state" and "an anti-peace force," accusing it of threatening the Asia-Pacific region and the rest of the world through its "admission to aggressive military blocs, undisguised arms buildup and ceaseless war drills."

"The tightened nexus" between Japan and NATO is a serious threat to international peace and security, Yonhap news agency reported quoting KCNA.

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SOUTH ASIA

10 pc richest in UK extracted wealth from India Nepal hikes climbing worth $33.8 trillion between 1765-1900: Oxfam

New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) Between 1765 and 1900, the richest 10 per cent in the UK extracted wealth from India alone worth US$33.8 trillion in today’s money -- enough to carpet the surface area of London in the 50-pound notes almost four times over, an Oxfam global report said on Monday.

According to authors Utsa Patnaik and Prabha Patnaik, of the US$64.82 trillion extracted from India by the UK over a century of colonialism, US$33.8 trillion went to the richest 10 per cent.

In the UK, a significant number of the richest people today can

trace their family wealth back to slavery and colonialism, specifically the compensation paid to rich enslavers when slavery was abolished, the report stressed.

“The modern multinational corporation is a creation of colonialism. It was pioneered by such corporations as the East India Company, which became a law unto itself and was responsible for many colonial crimes,” said the Oxfam report.

In 1750, the Indian subcontinent accounted for approximately 25 per cent of global industrial output. However, by 1900, this figure had precipitously declined to a mere 2 per cent.

“This dramatic reduction can be attributed to Britain’s implementation of stringent protectionist policies against Asian textiles, which systematically undermined India’s industrial

growth potential. US$64.82 trillion was drained from India

by Britain over 200 years,” the report’s findings showed.

In 2024, globally total billionaire wealth increased by $2 trillion, with 204 new billionaires created. This is an average of almost four new billionaires per week.

“Total billionaire wealth grew three times faster in 2024 than in 2023. Each billionaire saw their fortunes grow by $ 2 million a day on average.

For the richest 10 billionaires their fortunes grew by US$100 million a day on average,” the report showed.

Last year, Oxfam forecasted a trillionaire within a decade. If current trends continue, there will now be five trillionaires within a decade, it added.

Pak parliament approves controversial PECA bill that opposition and media claim curbs free speech

Islamabad, Jan 23 (IANS) The National Assembly of Pakistan on Thursday passed the controversial Prevention of Electronic Crimes (PECA) Amendment Bill 2025 amid a massive protest by the main opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the country's media community.

The controversial bill was tabled in the Parliament on Wednesday by law minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and later referred to the standing committee for review.

On Thursday afternoon, the bill was introduced in the National Assembly under a supplementary agenda by Federal Minister Rana Tanveer.

As per the new PECA bill provisions, strict action would be taken against anyone who shares, publicly exhibits or transmits any false or fake news through any information system.

During the proceedings, political parties including PTI and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl ( JUI-F) opposed the bill and staged a walkout in protest, terming the bill as an "open license" for the government to imprison anyone who opposes it, even on social media.

"The PECA Act Amendment Bill

introduces harsh penalties for social media users who criticise the government. Are you (the government) trying to silence everyone in Pakistan and not allow anyone to speak against the government? You want to label every activist as anti-state? It is clear that no one can express views or criticise the government anymore now. This law will backfire on the government. We reject it completely," said PTI's National Assembly member Zartaj Gul. The politician questioned the government's intentions behind rushing the bill through the legislative process.

"The bill was proposed yesterday and referred to the standing committee. And today, it was forced through the parliament without any proper briefing or explanation. This is not how a country should be run, by silencing everyone," she stated.

Spokesperson and Information Advisor to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government, Barrister Saif also slammed the government for passing the PECA amendment bill.

"The grave that they are digging for the media will eventually be their own. These new laws are being introduced to eliminate media, judiciary and political opposition," he said.

The bill has also been strongly opposed by the journalist bodies, who staged a walkout from the press gallery of the National

Assembly in protest of the bill's passing on Thursday.

"The amendments are a deliberate attempt to suppress the media, social media and the journalist community," said Afzal Butt, President of Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ).

"The KUJ protests any attempt to suppress freedom of expression under any circumstances and demands immediate withdrawal of this black law," read a statement issued by the Karachi Union of Journalists (KUJ).

According to the Section 26(A) of the new PECA Act, whoever intentionally disseminates, publicly exhibits, or transmits any information through any information system, that he knows or has reason to believe to be false or fake and likely to cause or create a sense of fear, panic or disorder or unrest in general public or society, shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend up to three years or with a fine which may extend to Rs two million, or both.

The bill allows establishment of a Digital Rights Protection Authority (DRPA), with the power to identify and remove any online content that falls under fake news or false propaganda and is judged illegal. In spite of the huge criticism, the government maintains that the bill is critical to safeguard the public at large from what it terms as "harmful and illegal" content.

Pakistan’s trade deficit with neighbouring Bangladesh, Sri countries rises by 43.22 pct Afghanistan, Lanka, India, Iran, Nepal, Bhutan

Islamabad, Jan 19 (IANS) Pakistan's trade deficit with nine neighbouring countries expanded by 43.22 per cent during the first half of the current fiscal year from July 2024 to June 2025, www.mccq.org.au

according to the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).

The data presented at the SBP website on Sunday showed that the widening trade deficit is attributed primarily to imports from China, India and Bangladesh, Xinhua news agency reported.

On the other hand, Pakistan's exports to Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka posted a notable increase, partially offsetting the decline in exports.

The value of Pakistan's exports to nine countries, including China,

and the Maldives, increased by 7.85 per cent to 2.40 billion dollars in the July-December period from 2.23 billion dollars over the same period a year ago.

The data revealed that Pakistan's imports from the regional countries also surged by 29.97 per cent, reaching 7.73 billion dollars in the first half of the current fiscal year, compared to 5.95 billion dollars in the corresponding period last year.

The economy of Pakistan is categorised as a developing economy.

fees for Mount Everest

Kathmandu, Jan 22 (IANS) The Nepali government has significantly increased climbing permit fees for Mount Everest or Mount Qomolangma, an official said on Wednesday.

The climbing fee for foreigners was hiked to $15,000 from $11,000, an increase of 36 per cent.

"The new rate will be effective on September 1, 2025," said Madhav Adhikari, an official from the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation.

"Those aspiring to scale Mount Qomolangma this spring will not have to pay the increased fee," he told Xinhua.

Meanwhile, those planning to scale the world's tallest peak, which straddles Nepal and China in the fall season, will have to pay $7,500, up from $5,500.

The cost for winter and monsoon seasons has risen from $2,750 to $3,750.

For Nepali climbers, the fee has been doubled from 75,000 Nepali

rupees (about $545) to 150,000 rupees (about $1,090).

Nepal last revised the climbing permit fees on January 1, 2015.

Mount Everest, known locally as Sagarmatha or Qomolangma, is Earth's highest mountain above sea level, located in the Mahalangur Himal sub-range of the Himalayas. The China–Nepal border runs across its summit point. Its elevation (snow height) of 8,848.86 metres was most recently established in 2020 by the Chinese and Nepali authorities.

Mount Everest attracts many climbers, including highly experienced mountaineers. There are two main climbing routes, one approaching the summit from the southeast in Nepal (known as the "standard route") and the other from the north in Tibet.

While not posing substantial technical climbing challenges on the standard route, Everest presents dangers such as altitude sickness, weather, and wind, as well as hazards from avalanches and the Khumbu Icefall.

Nepal is an ideal destination for adventure tourism because of its variegated, often formidable geography, inherently replete with rich, refreshing nature.

Once in Nepal, one can enjoy a number of outdoor activities from Paragliding near the mountains to spotting the Bengal tigers in the dense forest of Chitwan.

After India, Sri Lankan President Dissanayake to visit China

Beijing, Jan 10 (IANS) At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, Sri Lanka's President Anura Kumara Dissanayake will pay a state visit to China from January 14 to 17, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying announced here on Friday.

The visit, the first one to China

by President Dissanayake since taking office, is of great significance to the development of China-Sri Lanka relations, Guo Jiakun, also a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, told a news briefing on the same day.

During the visit, President Xi Jinping will hold talks with President Dissanayake. Premier Li Qiang and Chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee Zhao Leji will also meet with him respectively, Xinhua news agency reported.

Dissanayake had last month visited India, his first official foreign visit since assuming office in September.

After returning home, the Lankan President had labelled his three-day India visit as quite "successful", emphasising that he had "productive discussions" with the Indian leadership and business community during the trip.

The delegation that accompanied

Dissanayake also included Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism Minister Vijitha Herath, as well as Labour Minister and Economic Development Deputy Minister Prof. Anil Jayantha Fernando.

The Lankan President asserted that his visit has paved the way for further development of cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

"We faced an unprecedented economic crisis two years ago and India supported us immensely to come out of that quagmire.

It has also helped us immensely after that, especially in the debt-free structuring process.

I know that Sri Lanka secures a very significant place in the foreign policy of India. PM Modi assured us full support and he also assured us that he will always protect the territorial integrity and sovereignty of Sri Lanka," said Dissanayake.

He had also reiterated Sri Lanka's stated position of not permitting its territory to be used in any manner inimical to the security of India as well as towards regional stability.

"I have given an assurance to the Prime Minister of India that we will not allow our land to be used in any way in a manner that is detrimental to the interest of India. The cooperation with India will certainly flourish and I want to reassure our continued support to India," the visiting Lankan President stated during the joint press conference.

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Multicultural Community Connect Queensland

Feb 2025 - Vol 1 Issue 13

SOUTHEAST ASIA

Singapore expects heavy traffic at land Singapore tightens screen checkpoints during Chinese New Year time rules for children

Singapore, Jan 20 (IANS) Singapore's Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) on Monday warned of "very heavy traffic" at its land checkpoints with Malaysia during the upcoming Chinese New Year period.

In a statement, the ICA advised

travellers to "expect delays and factor in additional time for immigration clearance" from January 24 to February 2, citing ongoing enhanced checks.

The authority highlighted the surge in travel experienced during the recent year-end school holidays when more than 24 million travellers crossed the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints, a 20 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.

On December 20, 2024, a record-breaking 562,000 crossings were recorded in a single day, surpassing the previous high of over 553,000 on December 13, 2024. "Car travellers departing during peak periods had to wait up to three hours for immigration clearance, due to traffic tailback from Malaysia," the ICA noted.

The ICA also provided a list of recommendations to ensure smoother journeys, including

checking that passports have at least six months' validity and avoiding prohibited or controlled items, Xinhua news agency reported.

Singapore is holding a floral display 'Spring Blossoms' to welcome the Chinese New Year, or Spring Festival, in the Flower Dome of Gardens by the Bay, inviting people to enjoy the festival that symbolizes renewal and family unity.

The display kicked off last Friday and will last until February 23.

The 2025 Lunar New Year falls on January 29. It coincides with the date of new moon and signals the start of the Year of the Snake.

The Chinese New Year celebration, also known as Spring Festival, has been officially inscribed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Cambodia’s trade with ASEAN rises to $15.69 billion in 2024, up 12.4 pct

Phnom Penh, Jan 21 (IANS) Cambodia's trade volume with its fellow ASEAN member states reached $15.69 billion in 2024, up 12.4 per cent from 13.96 billion dollars in the year before, said a Ministry of Commerce's report on Tuesday.

The kingdom exported products total worth 5.07 billion dollars to other ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) countries last year, up 7.6 per cent from 4.71 billion dollars a year earlier, the report said.

Meanwhile, the country's total import from its fellow ASEAN countries amounted to 10.62 billion dollars, up 14.8 per cent from 9.25 billion dollars, it added.

Cambodia's trade volume with the ASEAN accounted for 28.3 per cent of the kingdom's total trade volume of 55.3 billion dollars in 2024, the report said.

Cambodia's top five trading

partners in ASEAN during the above-mentioned period were Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia, Xinhua news agency reported.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has said that the country stood as a vibrant partner within the ASEAN, adding that made-in-Cambodia products, such as garments and bicycles, were recognised in ASEAN and worldwide for their quality and competitive pricing.

"Cambodia's strategic membership in key regional and global trade agreements, including ASEAN and the World Trade Organization (WTO), positions it as a highly integrated player within the dynamic global market," he said.

ASEAN comprises Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Additionally, Cambodia exported garments, textiles, footwear and travel goods worth $13.92 billion in 2024, up 23 per cent over a year earlier, the ministry said.

Garments exports stood at 9.79 billion dollars last year, a

year-on-year increase of 24 per cent, the report said, adding that textiles worth 499 million dollars were shipped to international markets, up 17 per cent.

Also, 1.68 billion dollars worth of footwear was exported, up 23 per cent, while travel goods equivalent to 1.95 billion dollars were sold to international markets, up 19.6 per cent, the report added.

Hoe Ee Khor, chief economist of the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), said the garment, footwear and travel goods sector remained one of the key drivers for Cambodia's economic growth.

"Growth in the sector rebounded steadily in 2024, driven by stronger demand for consumer goods in major advanced markets," he wrote to Xinhua in a recent e-mail.

The industry is the largest foreign exchange earner for the Southeast Asian country.

The sector currently consists of about 1,538 factories and branches, employing approximately 913,000 workers, mostly women, according to the Ministry of Labor and Vocational Training's latest report.

Regional, bilateral FTAs help foster Cambodia’s growth, development: Ministry

Phnom Penh, Jan 22 (IANS) Regional and bilateral free trade agreements (FTAs) have promoted market diversification, helping foster Cambodia's growth and development, a senior commerce official said here on Wednesday.

Tekreth Kamrang, a secretary of state at the Ministry of Commerce, said Cambodia is www.mccq.org.au

a signatory to the ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) FTA, the ASEAN-plusone FTAs with its dialogue partners, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement.

Furthermore, the kingdom has a bilateral FTA with China, South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting Tekreth Kamrang.

"We continuously negotiate with other potential partners for new market access for our products," Tekreth Kamrang said in a speech at a CambodiaPhilippines business forum in Phnom Penh.

Kamrang said Cambodia's economy grew by 6 per cent in 2024 and is expected to reach 6.3 per cent in 2025. "These positive trends are paving the way for Cambodia to graduate from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) status in 2029 and to achieve our vision of becoming a high-income country by 2050," she added.Hong Vanak, director of the international economics department at the International Relations Institute of Cambodia under the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said RCEP and other FTAs have played a crucial role in supporting Cambodia's sustainable trade and economic growth in the long run.

Singapore, Jan 21 (IANS) Singapore has introduced stricter measures to regulate screen use among children in schools and preschools as part of a broader multi-ministry health initiative launched on Tuesday.

From February 1, preschools will enforce updated rules banning screen use for children under 18 months and limiting it to teaching and learning purposes for those aged 18 months to six years, according to a joint statement by the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Education, and the Ministry of Social and Family Development.

Educators will also be guided to prioritise "meaningful experiences" over sedentary activities such as prolonged screen time and sitting, Xinhua news agency reported.

Primary and secondary schools have implemented similar measures, requiring students to store their phones in designated areas during lessons and restricting device use to specific times and locations, such as during recess or after school.

The Ministry of Health has also revised its recommendations

for parents, advising less than one hour of screen time per day for children aged three to six and less than two hours for those aged seven to 12, excluding schoolwork. Parents are urged to limit children's access to mobile devices and social media.

These measures are part of Grow Well SG, a new national health promotion strategy launched by the three ministries. The initiative focuses on promoting healthier lifestyles and preventive care for children, emphasizing improved nutrition, sleep habits, learning experiences, and physical activity.

Research shows that excessive screen time can harm children's cognitive development, language skills, mental well-being, and physical health, the statement said, noting that while most children in Singapore are healthy, prolonged screen use and sedentary lifestyles pose significant risks to their overall development.

For now, the initiative focuses on children aged 12 and under, with plans to expand to older age groups in the future.

20 kg of Ice, over 300,000 stimulant tablets seized in Myanmar

Yangon, Jan 21 (IANS) Myanmar's authorities have seized 20 kg of Ice (methamphetamine) and 366,000 stimulant tablets in the Yangon region, the state-run media reported on Tuesday, citing police sources.

Acting on a tip-off, anti-narcotics police searched three people in Hlaing township and confiscated 20 kg of methamphetamine on January 14, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting the state-run daily The Mirror.

Additionally, 366,000 stimulant tablets were seized from two suspects in Hlegu township on January 16, the report said. The owner of the stimulant tablets was apprehended in Zabuthiri township in Nay Pyi Taw on January 17, it said.

The seized narcotics were approximately worth 866 million kyats (about $412,380), the report

said.

The suspects were charged under the country's law, and further investigations were ongoing.

Earlier on Monday, police seized 966,000 stimulant tablets in Myanmar's Shan state, the official Global New Light of Myanmar reported.

Acting on a tip-off, a joint anti-narcotic task force intercepted a vehicle in Kengtung township of Shan state on January 16 and confiscated the drugs.

The seized drugs had a street value of over 380 million kyats (about $0.18 million), it said.

Investigations showed that the seized stimulant tablets were intended to be trafficked from Mong Ping township to Tachileik township in Shan state.

The suspects who were involved in the case were charged under the country's law, and further investigations are ongoing, the report said.

Earlier on January 4, Myanmar authorities had seized 60 kg of ICE (methamphetamine) in Shan.

The seized drugs were valued at 480 million kyats (about $228,571) on the black market, and a suspect was arrested in connection with the case.

Investigations revealed that the drugs had been transported from Mong Ping township to Tachileik township in Shan state.

The suspect was charged under the country's law, and further investigations were ongoing.

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EUROPE

resumes partial parGlobal tourism almost return to Russia ticipation in Arctic Council pre-pandemic level in 2024

Madrid, Jan 22 (IANS) International tourist arrivals rose by 11 per cent in 2024, with 1.4 billion people travelling internationally, according to the World Tourism Barometer published by UN Tourism.

The data published just before the FITUR international tourism exhibition in Madrid on Wednesday indicates that tourism numbers have recovered to 99 per cent of the levels seen in 2019, just prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to reports from the Xinhua news agency.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili welcomed

the results. "In 2024, global tourism completed its recovery from the pandemic and, in many places, tourist arrivals and especially earnings are already higher than in 2019," he said.

Growth is expected to continue throughout 2025, he said, "driven by strong demand contributing to the socio-economic development of both mature and emerging destinations."

Madrid-based UN Tourism reports that Asia and the Pacific region saw 316 million international travellers in 2024, 33 per cent (78 million people) higher than in 2023 and 87 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

While Europe saw 747 million international arrivals in 2024, one per cent up on 2019 and 5 per cent higher than in 2023, the Middle East witnessed the biggest growth compared to 2019, with a 32 per cent rise in

arrivals to 95 million.

Africa also performed strongly, with a 12 per cent increase in international tourists compared to 2023.

One reason for the growth is that international air capacity and air traffic returned to pre-pandemic levels over the previous 12 months, UN Tourism said.

The rise in the number of travellers was also reflected in spending, with receipts reaching 1.6 trillion US dollars in 2024, a 4 per cent increase from 2019 and 3 per cent higher than in 2023.

The outlook for the future also seems bright. UN Tourism predicts a growth between 3-5 per cent in 2025 compared with 2024 and a "continued recovery of Asia and the Pacific and solid growth in most other regions" should global economic conditions remain stable and geopolitical conflicts not escalate.

Russia ready for equal dialogue with US: Kremlin

Moscow, Jan 23 (IANS) Russia is open to equal dialogue with the United States and is waiting for a signal from Washington, Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Thursday.

In a post on Truth Social Wednesday, US President Donald Trump said he does not want to hurt Russia, and called for an immediate end to the Ukraine crisis.

Trump said he would impose new sanctions and taxes on all Russian goods if he couldn't reach a deal with Russia.

"If we don't make a 'deal', and soon, I have no other choice but to put high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the US, and various other participating countries," Trump said on his Truth Social network.

The US President said he was "not looking to hurt Russia" and had "always had a very good relationship with President Putin," a leader for whom he has expressed admiration in the past.

"All of that being said, I'm going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOUR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT'S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE." "Settle now, and stop this ridiculous war! It's only going to get worse. If we don't make a "deal," soon, I have no other

choice but to put high levels of taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States, and various other participating countries.

Let's get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with! We can do it the easy way, or the hard way - and the easy way is always better. It's time to 'make a deal.'

No more lives should be lost," Trump added.

Asked about Trump's comments, Peskov said "We are closely monitoring all the rhetoric, all the statements."

"We remain ready for dialogue, as President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly said," he said, adding that Moscow is anticipating potential dialogue to be equal and mutually respectful, Xinhua news agency reported.

Peskov also said Russia was still waiting for signals from the US side.

Ukraine claims drone attacks on oil facilities, microelectronics plant in western Russia

Kyiv, Jan 24 (IANS) Ukrainian forces launched drone attacks on oil facilities and a microelectronics plant in western Russia overnight Friday, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed on Facebook.

The attack sparked fires at the production facilities of the Ryazan oil refining company and the Ryazan oil pumping station, it said.

Besides, drones hit Kremniy El microchip plant in the Bryansk region, which produces components critical for Russia's production of weapons.

According to the report, these components are used in the Topol-M and Bulava missile systems, the S-300 and S-400 anti-aircraft missile systems, and various combat aircraft.

www.mccq.org.au

The drone attacks were conducted by the Security Service of Ukraine and the Special Operations Forces in collaboration with other units, it said, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier in the day, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote on his Telegram channel that Moscow's air defence systems were actively engaged in repelling a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks in the early hours of Friday.

Drone attacks occurred in multiple locations surrounding Moscow, including the Kolomna and Ramensky urban districts, southeast of the capital, where air defence forces successfully intercepted the drones, Sobyanin wrote.

Preliminary reports indicate no significant damage or casualties from falling debris. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the affected sites, he wrote.

In the Podolsk urban district, two additional drones were shot down by air defence systems as

they approached Moscow.

Russian forces also neutralized a drone in the Troitsky Administrative District and another in the Shchyolkovo urban district of Moscow, according to the Mayor.

As a precautionary measure, temporary restrictions on aircraft arrivals and departures were imposed at Moscow's Vnukovo, Domodedovo and Zhukovsky airports.

Earlier this week, Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Centre for Countering Disinformation at Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council claimed that Ukraine's military had attacked a Russian aviation plant in Smolensk region in western Russia.

Kovalenko said on Tuesday that the plant participates in the production of military aircraft, particularly Su-25 attack aircraft, and is also involved in the overhaul and maintenance of aviation equipment.

Moscow, Jan 24 (IANS) Russia has partially resumed its work in the Arctic Council, the spokeswoman of the Russian Foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova was quoted by RIA Novosti as saying on Friday.

She noted that under Norway's chairmanship, virtual meetings of all six council working groups were held in the second half of 2024. These groups focus on sustainable development, climate, environmental protection, and emergency prevention and response.

Zakharova said the "process of resuming the Arctic Council's work will continue, taking into account the interests of all Arctic states" and "based on the current realities of the format and the tasks facing our country in this area," Xinhua news agency reported.

The Arctic Council's activities have been largely frozen for the past two years following the suspension of participation by Western countries in March 2022 due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Last year, Russia had suspended the payment of annual contributions to the Arctic Council until the practical work resumes with the participation of all member states.

The work of the council includes the implementation of joint projects affecting such important issues for all Arctic states as the preservation of the fragile ecosystem of the Arctic, the conduct of polar research, including marine scientific expeditions, the development of humanitarian ties, and improving the quality of life and well-being of the population of the Far North, including indigenous peoples.

The Arctic Council, established in 1996, is a high-level intergovernmental forum that facilitates cooperation in the region, especially in the field of environmental protection. The council comprises Denmark (including Greenland and the Faroe Islands), Iceland, Canada, Norway, Russia, the United States, Finland and Sweden. The chairing countries rotate every two years.

Russia held the chairmanship in 2021 and, in May 2023, the Council chairmanship was passed to Norway.

Resilience is key to thriving in today’s volatile world: WEF CEO

Davos, Jan 21 (IANS) As global volatility and compounding risks intensify, organisations must continuously adapt to complex macroeconomic and geopolitical dynamics, World Economic Forum (WEF) president and CEO, Borge Brende, said on Tuesday.

The 55th WEF Annual Meeting kicked off with the theme "Collaboration for the Intelligent Age", at Davos in the Swiss Alps.

Mentioning ‘The Resilience Pulse Check: Harnessing Collaboration’ report by the WEF and McKinsey & Company, Brende said that resilience is the key to thriving in today’s volatile world.

“The report highlights the need for collaboration and proactive strategies in areas like sustainable investment, workforce preparedness, and macroeconomic stability,” he noted.

According to the white paper, as volatility and compounding risks rise, leaders are learning first-hand that the ability to navigate and adapt continuously to complex macroeconomic and geopolitical dynamics is crucial for shaping resilient strategies.

To build resilient strategies, organisations are channelling greater investments into proactive future preparedness (or ‘offence moves’).

As companies concentrate on

addressing immediate risks, long-term resilience often takes a back seat, revealing a critical gap in sustained preparedness.

“This gap presents an opportunity for the public sector and international organisations to step in and support efforts to build enduring resilience,” it noted.

Collaborative initiatives can tackle key challenges, focusing on themes such as access to capital, macroeconomic stability, sustainable investments and workforce preparedness.

“A resilient approach relies on both defensive and offensive strategies. Yet, our findings reveal a predominant focus on short-term actions, reflecting a tendency towards defensive measures over proactive ones,” said Bob Sternfels, Global Managing Partner, McKinsey & Company.

According to Kristalina Georgieva, Managing Director, International Monetary Fund (IMF), amid rising volatility and compounding risks, organisations face higher-stakes decisions, necessitating a strategic, integrated approach to resilience.

“As we learned over the past few years, we operate in a world in which we must expect the unexpected,” Georgieva added.

On the geopolitical front, escalating trade tensions between the US and China have forced organisations to rethink and diversify their supply chains to mitigate exposure to global uncertainties.

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- Vol 1 Issue JulyFeb 20222025 - Vol 1, Issue 1 13

EUROPE COMMUNITY NEWS

says Russia prepared Hungarian FM says ready to Putin for talks on Ukraine issue supply gas to Slovakia

Budapest, Jan 23 (IANS) Hungary is prepared to provide its full transit capacities to supply Slovakia with gas via the southern TurkStream pipeline, Hungarian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Peter Szijjarto said here on Thursday.

It is Hungary's sovereign right to decide about its energy sources and routes, rejecting any external pressure, Szijjarto said during a press conference in Budapest.

He criticised the recent suspension of gas transit through Ukraine, calling it "unacceptable" and a threat to regional energy security.

Ukraine stopped the transit of Russian natural gas to Europe on January 1, following the expiration of a five-year transportation agreement.

Hungary has increased the annual capacity of its interconnector with Slovakia by 900 million cubic meters to strengthen the neighbouring country's energy security, he added, Xinhua news agency reported.

He also noted that Hungary imported 7.6 billion cubic meters of gas through the TurkStream pipeline last year, leaving an additional 900 million cubic meters of free capacity for further transit.

Earlier this month, in a Facebook post, Szijjarto had attributed the increase in natural gas prices to "artificially imposed reductions in supply" originating from political decisions and sanctions.

The European Union (EU)'s competitiveness has suffered significantly, said Szijjarto,

adding that higher natural gas prices than those paid by global competitors are to blame.

Data showed that in 2023, roughly 15 billion cubic meters of Russian gas were transported via Ukraine to Europe, accounting for around 5 per cent of Europe's needs. Following the halt of the Ukraine transit, the TurkStream pipeline under the Black Sea becomes the sole remaining route for transporting Russian gas to Europe.

The halt of the Ukraine transit is also dealing a major blow to Moldova, which imported about two billion cubic meters of gas annually from Russia via Ukraine.

In the more affluent Austria, public sentiments are more optimistic as the Austrian government has repeatedly assured its people that the country has built up adequate gas reserves and made thorough preparations for a switch to alternative suppliers.

Solar power overtakes coal in EU energy mix: Report

Brussels, Jan 23 (IANS) Solar power overtook coal in Europe's electricity mix for the first time in 2024 while gas declined for the fifth year in a row, energy think tank Ember said in a report on Thursday.

"Driven by expanding wind and solar power, renewables have risen from a share of 34 per cent in 2019 to 47 per cent in 2024," the report said, adding that fossil share declined to a historic low of 29 per cent in 2024, from 39 per cent in 2019.

It said solar power is growing in every EU country, while coal is becoming increasingly marginal.

EU's solar power electricity

generation increased by 21.7 per cent in 2024 from 2023.

Meanwhile, total EU gas consumption has fallen by 20 per cent in the past five years, with about a third of the decline occurring in the power sector.

At present, nuclear power accounts for 23.7 per cent of the EU's electricity generation, followed by wind with 17.4, gas with 15.7, hydro with 13.2, solar with 11.1 and coal with 9.8 per cent. The rest is covered by bioenergy and other sources.

Despite progress in its green transition, energy prices in the EU remain high. In 2024, the average wholesale gas price in EU countries was nearly five times that of the United States, while industrial electricity prices were approximately 2.5 times higher, Xinhua news agency reported.

The United States is EU's largest supplier of liquefied

natural gas. According to a report released by USAFacts last September, three-quarters of US energy production comes from fossil fuels as renewable energy, nuclear power, and natural gas liquids in combination account for the remaining quarter.

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday to announce the country's intention to withdraw from the Paris Agreement.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on her X account Tuesday that "All continents will have to deal with the growing burden of climate change. Its impact is impossible to ignore."

"The Paris Agreement continues to be humanity's best hope.

Europe will stay the course.

And we'll keep working with all nations that want to stop global warming," she said.

Moscow’s air defence repels Ukrainian drone attacks

Moscow, Jan 24 (IANS) Moscow's air defence systems were actively engaged in repelling a wave of Ukrainian drone attacks in the early hours of Friday, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin wrote on his Telegram channel.

Drone attacks occurred in multiple locations surrounding Moscow, including the Kolomna and Ramensky urban districts, southeast of the capital, where air defence forces successfully intercepted the drones, Sobyanin

www.mccq.org.au

wrote.

Preliminary reports indicate no significant damage or casualties from falling debris. Emergency response teams were immediately dispatched to the affected sites, he wrote.

In the Podolsk urban district, two additional drones were shot down by air defence systems as they approached Moscow. Russian forces also neutralized a drone in the Troitsky Administrative District and another in the Shchyolkovo urban district of Moscow, according to the mayor.

As a precautionary measure, temporary restrictions on aircraft arrivals and departures were imposed at Moscow's Vnukovo, Domodedovo and

Zhukovsky airports. Earlier this week, Andriy Kovalenko, head of the Centre for Countering Disinformation at Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council claimed that Ukraine's military had attacked a Russian aviation plant in Smolensk region in western Russia. Kovalenko said on Tuesday that the plant participates in the production of military aircraft, particularly Su-25 attack aircraft, and is also involved in the overhaul and maintenance of aviation equipment. "This plant is closely connected to other enterprises of the Russian defence industry, supplying components or participating in cooperation to create modern aviation systems," he said.

Moscow, Jan 25 (IANS) Moscow is open to talks on Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin said.

"We have always said this, and I would like to emphasise this once again, we are ready for negotiations on the Ukrainian issue," Putin said on Friday.

In the meantime, the Russian president said that certain issues require special attention. He recalled that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously issued a decree prohibiting such negotiations, Xinhua news agency reported.

"How can negotiations be resumed now when they have been banned?" Putin questioned, adding that if talks were to resume, they would be illegitimate under Ukraine's current legal framework.

Putin said that as long as the decree remains in place, it will be difficult to talk about whether these negotiations can begin, or whether they can be properly completed. He noted that while some preliminary discussions can happen, serious negotiations would be difficult given the existing ban from the Ukrainian side.

The Russian leader said Zelensky "was in no hurry" to lift the decree banning negotiations, and

follow the orders of his sponsors.

He said that those who are funding Kiev should pressure the Ukrainian leader to do so.

During his speech at the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos on Thursday, US President Donald Trump said US efforts to secure a peace settlement between Russia and Ukraine were "hopefully underway," adding that Ukraine was ready to make a deal.

Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Friday that Moscow is ready for nuclear disarmament talks with Washington, although it would be necessary to take into account the nuclear arsenals of US allies.

During his virtual address to the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, US President Donald Trump called for denuclearisation, adding that Russian President Vladimir Putin supported this idea.

"In the interests of the entire world and the peoples of our countries, of course, we are interested in starting this negotiation process as soon as possible," Peskov said.

"In the current conditions … it is necessary to take into account all nuclear potentials," Peskov stressed, adding that it would be impossible to discuss disarmament without addressing the nuclear potentials of France and Britain.

Peskov said that while such negotiations are important, time has already been lost, and the "ball" was currently in Washington's court.

Unemployment in Finland rises in 2024

Helsinki, Jan 25 (IANS) Finland's unemployment rate rose as employment weakened in 2024, announced Statistics Finland.

According to the statistical agency, the average number of employed people aged 15 to 74 was 2,602,000, while 238,000 were unemployed. There were 25,000 fewer employed and 34,000 more unemployed people compared to the previous year, Xinhua news agency reported.

In the 20 to 64 age group, the employment rate was 76.7 per cent last year, a drop of 1.2 per cent from 2023.

At the same time, the number of unemployed people in Finland increased from the previous year. The unemployment rate among 15 to 74-year-olds stood at 8.4 per cent in 2024, rising by 1.2 per cent from a year earlier.

"Unemployment remains at a

high level, and there are still no signs of a turnaround in the labor market," said Henna Busk, senior economist at Pellervo Economic Research PTT, commenting on the latest employment figures released by Statistics Finland.

In a press release issued by PTT on Friday, Busk said it is worrying that employment in the field of professional, scientific and technical activities declined the most in the fourth quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, indicating a weak employment trend among highly educated people.

The number of long-term unemployed people also continues to rise. "The larger the group of long-term unemployed, the harder it is to reduce unemployment," said Busk.

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Feb 2025 - Vol 1 Issue 13

NORTH AMERICA

Marco Rubio confirmed as Secretary of State, Trump threatens 25% tariffs first Trump Cabinet official to be approved on Mexico and Canada to building relationships in his "We've allowed them to get away raise prices for Americans party and across the aisle. with things, and frankly the

Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) The Senate voted on Monday to confirm Marco Rubio as President Donald Trump's Secretary of State, the first high-level Cabinet official for the new administration to be approved by the Chamber, media reported.

The confirmation vote took place just hours after Trump was sworn in as President, CNN reported.

Rubio has served as a Republican Senator from Florida since 2011, and his nomination drew strong support from several Senate Democrats, who called their colleague highly qualified for the role.

Rubio went from Trump's adversary to ally in recent years in a remarkable political turnaround. Now, he will play a key role as a high-ranking official in Trump's new administration, CNN reported.

After his failed GOP presidential primary bid in 2016, Rubio sharpened his foreign policy credentials as the leading Republican on the Senate Intelligence Committee, while

Florida Republican Governor Ron DeSantis has named state Attorney General Ashley Moody to fill the seat set to be vacated

by Rubio.

Rubio's nomination received a warm reception from many Senate Democrats. During his confirmation hearing, New Hampshire Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, called Rubio "well-qualified to serve as Secretary of State".

During questions from Senators, Rubio voiced his support for NATO -- as well as a bipartisan law he co-sponsored that states that the US cannot withdraw from the alliance without Senate approval or an act of Congress.

Rubio also talked about the need for the US to take a strong stance with respect to China during his confirmation hearing, calling the Chinese Communist Party a "potent" and "dangerous" adversary.

"They're a technological adversary and competitor, an industrial competitor, an economic competitor, geopolitical competitor, a scientific competitor now, in every realm, it's an extraordinary challenge and one that I believe will define the 21st century," Rubio said.

Chinese did what any country in the world would do given these opportunities, they took advantage of it, so now we're dealing with the ramifications of it," he said.

"Much of what we need to do to confront China is here at home.

It's not just abroad, it's also here at home," he said.

"We have to rebuild our domestic industrial capacity, and we have to make sure the United States is not reliant on any single other nation for any of our critical supply chains."

In response to questions about Russia's war against Ukraine, Rubio said it's "unrealistic to believe" Ukraine can push Russian forces back to where they were before the 2022 invasion and that the official US position should be that the war should end, CNN reported.

Rubio added he and Trump agreed that the war needed to end and criticised the Biden administration for not setting a clear "end goal" for the war.

"What (Russian President) Vladimir Putin has done is unacceptable, there's no doubt about it, but this war has to end, and I think it should be the official policy of the United States that we want to see it end," he said.

Unlike 2017, top stars, tech tycoons and politicians line up for Donald Trump’s historic inauguration

Washington, Jan 20 (IANS) As millions all over the world anxiously wait for Donald Trump's second inaugural address late Monday evening, India time, after he is sworn into office for another presidential term, several foreign leaders, tech billionaires and top celebrities have started arriving in the US capital to attend the ceremony that will take place inside the Capitol Rotunda.

As people queue up for the ceremony, Politico revealed that seven Democrats, who had boycotted Trump's first inauguration in 2017, are also going this time.

Breaking tradition, several foreign leaders will also be attending the high-profile ceremony.

"Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni will attend the inauguration ceremony of US President-elect

Donald Trump," stated the Italian Government Presidency of the Council of Ministers.

Argentina's President Javier Milei, who has already addressed a couple of events - including at the Milken Centre in Washington DC on Sunday - has called the inauguration of President Trump as a milestone event in "global crusade for freedom" and the "clearest evidence that a new era has begun".

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa, El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, former Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawieck have also been invited.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who may not be able to make it for the inauguration stated over the weekend that "everything will change" after Trump takes office.

"A different day will dawn over the Western world; four bitter, difficult, painful years, punctuated by failures, will come to an end: democratic governance," Orban said on Friday in a radio programme.

External Affairs Minister (EAM)

S. Jaishankar will be representing India at the swearing-in ceremony and will also have meetings with representatives of the incoming administration, as also some other dignitaries visiting the US on the occasion.

According to the New York Times, Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg and Jeff Bezos, three of the world's wealthiest men, are expected to be among the major tech executives who would sit in a "position of honour on the dais" at Trump's inauguration, possibly along with Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook.

Regular attendees would include President Joe Biden and Jill Biden, former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, former President George W Bush and Laura Bush, and former President Barack Obama.

While Team Trump had struggled to invite big celebs and performers in 2017, top stars are slated to perform at the inauguration ball this time.

It includes Grammy-winner Nelly, Lee Greenwood, Kid Rock, Billy Ray Cyrus, Christopher Macchio and many more big names.

Cuba condemns Trump’s decision to reinstate it on state sponsor of terrorism list Havana, Jan 21 (IANS) Cuba's President Miguel Díaz-Canel has condemned US President Donald Trump's decision to put the island back on the US list of state sponsors of terrorism, calling Trump's actions "an act of arrogance and disregard for the truth".

"President Trump, in an act of

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arrogance and disregard for the truth, has just reinstated the fraudulent designation of Cuba as a state sponsor of terrorism," Díaz-Canel wrote on Monday on X. "This is not surprising. His goal is to continue strengthening the cruel economic war against Cuba for the purpose of domination.""The result of the extreme

economic siege measures imposed by Trump has been to cause shortages among our people and a significant increase in the migratory flow from Cuba to the United States," the Cuban President said in a separate post.

Cuba's Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez also issued a scathing response to the decision.

Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) US President Donald Trump said in an Oval Office signing ceremony on Monday that his administration will impose 25 per cent tariffs on Mexico and Canada on February 1, an extraordinary change in North American trade policy that could raise prices for American consumers.

Trump still outlined his broader trade policy for his second term in an executive action on Monday. But that action -- described by sources as a "placeholder" -- doesn't institute the new global tariffs that Trump promised on Day One. As a candidate, Trump proposed sweeping and across-the-board tariffs: up to 20 per cent on imports from all countries, with a 25 per cent tax on goods from Mexico and Canada, plus a punishing 60 per cent levy on goods from China. He also pledged to use tariffs as a negotiating tool on other countries, including, for example, Denmark — putting pressure on the European nation to give control of Greenland to the United States.

Asked on Monday at an Oval Office signing ceremony about tariffs on China, Trump noted extensive tariffs he imposed during his first administration were still in effect after former President Joe Biden largely left them in place.

And on universal tariffs, Trump punted, saying, "We may, but we're not ready for that just yet."

Mexico and Canada are two of America's top three trade

partners. Last year, the US imported $475 billion worth of goods from Mexico and $418 billion from Canada, collectively accounting for 30 per cent of the value of all the goods the US exported last year, according to federal trade data.

Meanwhile, the US exported $354 billion worth of goods to Canada last year and $322 billion to Mexico, accounting for a third of the value of all goods the US exported last year. The tariffs Trump intends to place on both countries likely will raise the prospect that the two impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods, potentially hurting domestic businesses.

The executive action signed on Monday directed the secretaries of Commerce and Treasury and the United States Trade Representative to investigate the causes of America's trade deficits with foreign nations, to determine how to build an "External Revenue Service" to collect tariffs, to identify unfair trade practices and to review existing trade agreements for potential improvements.

It also directs the government agencies to analyse how the US-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (the USMCA) signed

by Trump in his first term is affecting American workers and businesses -- and whether America should remain in the free trade agreement.

Trump's action requires agencies to assess whether stricter US trade policy could successfully restrict the flow of fentanyl and the flow of undocumented migrants into the United States.

"Americans benefit from and deserve an America First trade policy," Trump's executive action said.

Trump slams China as he pulls US out of Paris climate accord

Washington, Jan 21 (IANS) President Donald Trump on Monday slammed China as the reason for his withdrawal of the US from the Paris Climate Accord in a significant departure from his announcement in his first term in 2017 when he also blamed India.

"I'm immediately withdrawing from the unfair, one-sided Paris Climate Accord rip off the United States will not sabotage our own industries while China pollutes with impunity," Trump told supporters at a sporting arena where they had waited for his speech all day.

They had come to the capital from all over the country to participate in the inauguration that has traditionally been held outdoors at the US Capitol.

This time, the event was moved indoors and the supporters were moved to the sporting arena to watch the event on giant TV screens.

"You know, China, and look, they use a lot of dirty energy, but they produce a lot of energy, and when that stuff goes up in the air, you know, it doesn't stay there.

It's not like you have a wall. We love walls that way. Not like you have a wall around and it just doesn't. It floats into the United States of America after three and a half to five and a half days, it floats across the oceans, and it comes right over your neighborhood, and it falls into your neighborhood. So they all say we have to fight for cleaner air, but the other dirty air is dropping all over us. So what the hell are they talking about? Unless everybody does it. It just doesn't work."

So the US is out of the Paris Climate Accord once again.

Trump announced the withdrawal as he got down to work even before the celebration had ended by signing executive orders rescinding a large number of regulations of the Biden administration in full view of cheering supporters who had waited all day for it at the sporting arena.

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MIDDLE EAST AND NORTH AFRICA

migrants rescued off Libyan Iranian army stages two-day 493 coast over past week: IOM drill in northeastern province

Tehran, Jan 20 (IANS) The Iranian army's ground force launched a two-day military drill on Sunday in the northeastern Khorasan Razavi province, said local authorities.

The exercise aims to enhance the troops' combat capabilities and showcase the Iranian armed forces' new weapons and gears, according to a press release from the army's public relations on Monday.

The first stage of the exercise, involving artillery, armoured, airborne, drone, electronic warfare and missile units, began in Torbat-e Jam County on Sunday night, it said.

In the first phase of the "offensive-security" drill, the ground force's special rapid reaction

units practiced capturing mock terrorist leaders and senior members before they could enter the country, carrying out specialised operations with drones, missiles, bombs, helicopters and armored vehicles, it added.

The Iranian armed forces have conducted several drills over the past few days and plan to hold more during the coming weeks to maintain and enhance their military preparedness against potential threats, Xinhua news agency reported.

Earlier this month, Iran's armed forces held a large-scale joint air defence exercise near the Natanz uranium enrichment facility in central Isfahan province.

The 'Eqtedar' (Power) 1403 exercise was launched in the first week of the year on the orders of Khatam al-Anbia Air Defence Base Commander Qader Rahimzadeh, IRIB TV said.

The first phase involved Aerospace Force units of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) conducting "all-out

point defence of the nuclear site against numerous aerial threats under tough electronic warfare conditions," according to IRIB. IRGC spokesman Ali-Mohammad Naeini said that the annual drills aim to maintain and improve military preparedness, counter potential military threats and acts of sabotage, and boost national morale.

Iran signed a nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action ( JCPOA), with world powers in July 2015, agreeing to put some curbs on its nuclear programme in return for the removal of sanctions. The United States, however, pulled out of the deal in May 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to scale back its commitments under the deal.

The talks to revive the JCPOA began in April 2021 in Vienna, Austria. Despite several rounds of talks, no significant breakthrough has been achieved.

Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange of three hostages

Tel Aviv, Jan 20 (IANS) The Israel Prison Service announced on Monday the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

On Sunday, Israeli authorities began transferring Palestinian detainees to Ofer Prison in the West Bank, preparing them for release.

The process coincided with the Red Cross meeting Hamas forces to secure the transfer of three Israeli hostages, who were later brought to Israel, reports Xinhua news agency.

The three women—Emily

Damari, 28, a British-Israeli, Doron Steinbrecher, 30, a veterinary nurse, and Romi Gonen, 23, abducted from the Nova music festival—were the first hostages freed after 471 days in captivity.

Their release marked the initial stage of the agreement, which outlines the release of 33 Israeli hostages by Hamas and 990 to 1,650 Palestinian prisoners by Israel.

As part of the deal, the first group of 90 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women and children from West Bank and East Jerusalem, underwent medical checks and identification procedures before being handed to the Red Cross.

Hamas, in turn, transferred the three Israeli hostages through the Red Cross to Israeli forces near the Gaza border, where they were reunited with their families.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu described the moment as significant, stating, "The three went through hell."

IDF Spokesman Daniel Hagari expressed gratitude for their return while emphasising that Israeli forces are prepared for any violations of the agreement.

Hamas spokesperson Abu Ubaida reiterated the group's commitment to the ceasefire, contingent on Israel's adherence. He described the October 7 assault, which killed 1,200 people in Israel and led to the kidnapping of 250 others, as a "turning point" in the conflict.

The ceasefire deal, which aims to halt hostilities after over 15 months of intense Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, marks the beginning of six weeks of calm.

The phased release of hostages and prisoners is seen as a critical step towards reducing tensions between the two sides.

Lebanese president, Spanish defence minister a separate discussion, meet on ceasefire progress, ties InLebanese Defence Minister

Beirut, Jan 21 (IANS) Lebanese President Joseph Aoun called for Israel's immediate withdrawal from disputed territories during a meeting on Tuesday with Spanish Defence Minister Margarita Robles.

The talks come amid rising tensions along the border, exacerbated by violations of a recent ceasefire agreement.

Aoun warned that Israel's potential failure to meet the deadlines set in the November 27 ceasefire accord would destabilise the region further and hinder reconstruction efforts www.mccq.org.au

in the border areas. Under the agreement, Israeli forces are required to withdraw by January 26.

The meeting, held at Baabda Palace, coincided with reports of Israeli military activity near the southern town of Bint Jbeil.

According to Lebanon's National News Agency, Israeli forces were demolishing property gates and firing in the area. Artillery fire also targeted the Sedana Heights near Shebaa earlier on Tuesday.

Robles reiterated Spain's support for Lebanon and stressed the importance of Israel adhering to the agreed withdrawal timeline. She also reaffirmed Spain's commitment to the UN peacekeeping force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), where Spanish troops serve under UNIFIL Commander Aroldo Lazaro Saenz, Xinhua news agency reported.

Maurice Slim expressed gratitude for Spain's military support, while condemning what he described as Israeli violations of Lebanese sovereignty and UN Resolution 1701.

On Monday, residents of the southern Lebanese border town of Bint Jbeil and the nearby village of Ainata returned home following the completion of Lebanese Army deployments in the two areas, which the five-member committee -- comprising the US, France, Lebanon, Israel, and the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) -- overseeing the ceasefire agreement has declared safe.

The agreement between Israel and Hezbollah, took effect on November 27, 2024, ending nearly 14 months of fighting between the two sides.

Tripoli, Jan 14 (IANS) The International Organization for Migration (IOM) on Tuesday said that 493 migrants were rescued off the coast of Libya in the past week.

Between January 5 and January 11, "493 migrants were intercepted and returned to Libya," IOM said in a statement.

The migrants include 47 women and 17 children, IOM added, noting that three bodies of migrants were retrieved.

In 2024, 21,762 migrants were rescued and returned to Libya, while 674 died and 1,015 went missing on the Central Mediterranean route, including those departing from Libya and other countries.

Since the fall of late leader Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, the ensuing insecurity and chaos in Libya have prompted many migrants, primarily from Africa, to attempt to cross the

Mediterranean Sea to reach European shores, Xinhua news agency reported.

Last month, Libya deported a group of migrants to Niger by land, the first such deportation in years, according to the Libyan Illegal Migration Control Department.

The department said in a statement on its Facebook page that the deportation took place in the presence of Niger's charge d'affaires to Libya.

The migrants were deported across the land border with Niger "for violating applicable Libyan laws" after completing necessary procedures, the statement said.

It added that deportations of migrants from Libya to their countries of origin would continue.

Libya became a major transit point for migrants, mostly from Africa, seeking to reach Europe by sea after the 2011 overthrow of its late leader, Muammar Gaddafi, plunged the country into chaos.

The IOM estimates that there are 787,326 migrants in Libya, with 41 per cent of them reporting they experienced shocks such as environmental, political, or economic hardship before migrating to Libya.

All sectors in Gaza need full support: UN official

Gaza, Jan 21 (IANS) All sectors in the Gaza Strip require full support following the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel that took effect on Sunday, a UN official said on Tuesday.

"The role of the private sector in Gaza must be strengthened, and shelters in the Strip must be supported," Muhannad Hadi, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, told a press conference in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip.

Hadi also stressed the need to bolster the work of UN agencies in partnership with local community organizations, noting that sectors such as health, education, nutrition, and psychological support are in dire need of assistance.

He called for "providing the necessary assistance to the people of Gaza in the reconstruction process to return families to their homes," Xinhua news agency reported.

The ceasefire put a pause to 15 months of fighting that caused immense human loss and destruction in the besieged enclave. According to the UN, as of December 2024, approximately 69 per cent of the Gaza Strip, or 170,812 buildings, had been damaged or destroyed.

On Sunday, a long line of trucks, laden with humanitarian aid, snaked its way towards the heavily-guarded Rafah crossing,

hours after a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect.

The trucks, carrying food, clothes, medical equipment, tents, mobile toilets, and other relief materials, had been parked in several cities in Egypt's North Sinai Governorate, mainly Arish, Sheikh Zuweid, and Rafah, some of which had been waiting for months to reach Palestinians in need.

"I have brought in a lot of aid to the Gaza Strip since the beginning of the war in October 2023, until the entry of aid to the Strip became almost non-existent due to the harsh Israeli policies," said 65-year-old truck driver Ahmed Ibrahim Ahmed. "Today, I feel happy not only because I will be able to bring in this aid to the residents of the Gaza Strip, but also because the people of Gaza will be able to sleep without fear for the first time in more than a year after the ceasefire came into effect this morning," he told Xinhua. Ibrahim said his truck was carrying clothes and blankets, noting that "the residents of the Strip need them greatly due to the bitter winter cold they suffer from while living in tents." The ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, with its first stage spanning 42 days, was reached on Wednesday through the mediation of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. It began taking effect on Sunday.

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SPORTS

Jay Shah meets IOC prez to Arsenal hoping to capitalize on strong position in UCL, says Arteta give cricket at Olympics a push

London, Jan 21 (IANS) With only two match weeks remaining, the preliminary league stage of the Champions League is getting to the business end, and a win for Arsenal against Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday could prove pivotal. The Gunners currently sit third in the 36-team league table, behind only Liverpool and Barcelona, having amassed 13 points from the six group games so far to put them firmly in contention for a spot in the coveted top eight.

And those spots could prove crucial in the season’s final shakeup. As well as receiving a bye into the round of 16 and avoiding two extra play-off round games involving the clubs finishing ninth to 24th, the elite eight will receive home advantage in the second legs of those ties in March.

Mikel Arteta emphasised the importance of capitalizing on their home advantage and hopes his side puts on a strong

performance in the penultimate UCL league stage game. "So far we have done really well. We are in a strong position and now it's time to capitalise at home.

The work that we have done for many months, we need a strong performance against a really good side and we'll try to do that,” said Arteta in a press conference.

Dinamo Zagreb began their UCL campaign with a humiliating 9-2 loss against Bayern Munich - the club’s heaviest-ever defeat, following which the then head coach Sergej Jakirovic was dismissed.

Nenad Bjelica returned as manager four years after departing, but he would only last until December after only winning five of 15 matches, and one of his final seven, which was their last competitive match back on December 22 - a 3-2 success over Varazdin. The winter break saw former Italy captain Fabio Cannavaro installed as his successor, and he has overseen two friendly matches to prepare for their trip to north London.

Despite that mauling in Munich, Dinamo head into this match week clinging onto the 24th and final qualifying spot in the table with eight points to their

name. Only a last-minute penalty denied them a win against Monaco, before victories on their travels to Salzburg and Slovan Bratislava. A 3-0 loss to Borussia Dortmund followed, before holding Celtic to a goalless draw in their last continental outing.

If Arsenal do secure a top-eight berth, it would be a huge relief as it will result in two fewer games that the club will have to play in between heavy fixture congestion. The Gunners’ elimination from the FA Cup means Arteta’s side will get a much-needed break in their schedule. The Spaniard acknowledged the need for a break and recalled how a break helped his side in the long run last season.

"Let's do what we have to do first, which is always difficult because we are talking about the Champions League. If we manage to do that obviously we will have the best ideas on the table to make the right decision.

"Yeah, it was very helpful [a break last season] with the schedule that we have for the last three months. You can have a break and reset a little bit, work on things and rest some people but some people are back. That would be great,” he added.

Man City sign Vitor Reis from Palmeiras on four-and-a-half-year deal

Manchester, Jan 21 (IANS) Manchester City have announced the signing of Vitor Reis from Palmeiras. The 19-year-old Brazilian youth international moves to the Etihad Stadium on a four-and-a-half-year deal, keeping him at City until the summer of 2029.

A centre-back and regular captain on his journey through Palmeiras’ youth ranks, Reis made his senior debut in June 2024 and went on to be a key

part of the team as they finished runners-up in the Brazilian Serie A. Reis said it’s a ‘dream come true’ to join Manchester City. He is City's second signing of the January transfer window after joining from Palmeiras following the arrival of Uzbek enforcer Abdukodir Khusanov.

"The magnitude of Manchester City, its history and its structure,” he said when asked what he admired most about the Club. "I followed a lot in the last few years. All we watch on TV is Manchester City so every kid who loves football is certainly watching Manchester City. When the door knocked and it was Manchester City, I knew there wasn’t anywhere else to go," said Reis.

He played 22 times for his boyhood club, including 18 games in the league and two matches in

the Copa Libertadores.

At 19, Reis's journey in senior football is only just beginning.

But having captained Palmeiras and Brazil youth sides, he’s always been earmarked as both an outstanding defensive prospect and an innate leader.

Alongside his natural reassuring presence, his raw physical capabilities are what made him desirable for the defending champions. As a youngster seeking to develop, Reis will undoubtedly hope to grow his game under the tutelage of Pep Guardiola and be moulded into the kind of defender that has proved the backbone of the club's recent success.

Compatriots Fernandinho and Gabriel Jesus, who also moved from Palmeiras as a teenager, have previously excelled at City under Guardiola while Ederson and Savinho are still here.

Flame for 9th Asian Winter Games lit in Harbin

Harbin (China), Jan 20 (IANS) The flame for the Harbin 2025 Asian Winter Games was lit at the Sun Island Scenic Area here on Monday, with 18 days to go before the opening of the Games.

The flame was lit after a brief ceremony opened by a choir of 90 children.

The torch, measuring 735mm in height, features a top diameter of 115mm and a grip diameter of 50mm. Its design, themed "Surging," is inspired by the www.mccq.org.au

dynamic energy of nature and life. The design takes the form of a blossoming lilac, integrating colours such as China Red, Lilac Purple, and Snow White, symbolizing the sincerity, warmth, openness, and inclusivity of Heilongjiang Province and the characteristics of the host city, Harbin, reports Xinhua.

Wang Zheng, the chief director of the ceremony, introduced that the whole event emphasized the harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. The stage design was centred around respecting nature, blending the icy landscapes with rich cultural charm.

The event saw the launch of an online torch relay on the same

day, which allowed more people to take part in this grand sports and cultural event regardless of time and space. The offline torch relay will start on February 3.

The medals for the Asian Winter Games, titled "Spirit of Speed", were released on October 30, 2024. The front of the medals combines the streamlined shape of a racetrack with the emblem of the 9th Asian Winter Games, capturing the powerful and graceful motion of athletes in action. This design embodies the strength and beauty of competitive sports. The flowing curves of the racetrack incorporate the silhouette of the Harbin Grand Theatre, reflecting the city's unique aesthetic.

Mumbai, Jan 21 (IANS) With cricket set to make its debut in the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, International Cricket Council (ICC) Chairman Jay Shah met the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach to give the move further push.

Jay Shah has recently taken over as ICC Chairman while Bach is in the final stretch of his tenure as IOC President before the elections later this year.

But their meeting in Lausanne, Switzerland, will take forward the current cooperation between the two organisations till LA28 and beyond.

"Momentum continues to build around cricket’s inclusion as an @olympics

sport at the @la28games and beyond, with @jayshah220988 meeting International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach in Lausanne, Switzerland this week," the ICC said in a story on its Instagram page.

Cricket was included in the LA28 sports programme during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai along with Flag Football, Lacrosse, Squash, and Baseball/ Softball.

Cricket is already part of two of the other multi-sport extravaganzas, the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games. It was hosted in T20 format for women in the 2022 Commonwealth Games and in the Asian Games in Hangzhou, which was organised in 2023, for both men and women.

Being part of the Olympic Games will take it forward. Though the final format of how cricket will be conducted in the Los Angeles Olympics is yet to be finalised, it is likely to be in T20 format.

Australia clean sweep Sri Lanka 2-0 with nine-wicket win in Galle

Galle, Feb 9 (IANS) Australia clinched the second Test in Galle with a comfortable nine-wicket victory, securing a 2-0 series win over Sri Lanka. After dismissing Sri Lanka’s batting lineup early on Day 4, Australia needed just 75 runs to win. Travis Head, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne knocked off the target in less than 18 overs.

Nathan Lyon and Matthew Kuhnemann each picked up four-wicket hauls in Sri Lanka’s second innings, adding to their earlier successes in the first innings.

Australia took under six overs to finish off Sri Lanka’s batting on Day 4. Lyon struck first, getting one to spin and bounce awkwardly, forcing Kusal Mendis, the hosts' last hope, to top-edge a pull shot to short-fine leg.

Lahiru Kumara briefly fought back, smashing Kuhnemann for four. Lyon then bowled two overs, which included two unsuccessful reviews and a catch at second slip that was overturned after the ball bounced into the fielder’s hands. Beau Webster

wrapped up the innings with the first ball of his spell, dismissing Kumara.

In response, Nishan Peiris generated spin and bounce with the new ball, dismissing Head early with a delivery that bamboozled the Australian batter. However, Head responded by cutting one through extra cover for four.

Ramesh Mendis, at the other end, troubled Khawaja by turning the ball away from the left-hander. But Mendis overcompensated, bowling three full deliveries in his next over, which Khawaja dispatched for four each time. Sri Lanka's hopes faded when Prabath Jayasuriya got Head out, with the batter nicking behind to Kusal Mendis.

That was the only success Sri Lanka managed on the day.

Labuschagne and Khawaja held firm, guiding Australia to victory with ease, scoring the winning runs off Dimuth Karunaratne, who was playing his 100th and final Test.

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Brazil’s Central Bank signals further interest rate hikes in early 2025

Brasilia, Dec. 18 (IANS) Brazil's Central Bank indicated in minutes from its latest Monetary Policy Committee (Copom) meeting, released on Tuesday, that it anticipates two additional increases to the Selic benchmark interest rate at the start of 2025.

The Central Bank cited the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the US dollar, which recently surpassed 6 reals per dollar, as well as negative market sentiment surrounding the government's proposed fiscal package. These factors have significantly impacted both prices and future interest rate expectations.

At last week's meeting, Copom raised the Selic rate by one percentage point to 12.25 per cent annually, marking the third

consecutive hike, Xinhua news agency reported.

The bank emphasised that the worsening economic outlook requires a tighter monetary policy, driven by the exchange rate's depreciation and concerns over achieving inflation targets.

Copom will closely monitor how the real's devaluation and financial conditions influence prices and economic activity going forward.

The Central Bank highlighted that its decisions focus on inflation projections rather than current data, as changes to the Selic rate typically take six to 18 months to impact the economy.

Brazil is targeting an inflation rate of 3.0 per cent, with an allowable range between 1.5 per cent and 4.5 per cent.

On the global front, the Central Bank noted that external conditions remain "challenging," particularly amid economic uncertainty in the United States and potential fallout from protectionist policies under incoming US President Donald Trump, which could impact

exchange rates and interest rates.

Last Friday, Brazil's Central Bank had revealed that economic activity grew by 3.4 per cent over the past 12 months through October.

The bank's Economic Activity Index (IBC-Br) edged up 0.1 per cent in October from the previous month on a seasonally adjusted basis, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth.

The IBC-Br index, considered a preview of the GDP, also serves as a reference for the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee to adjust basic interest rates.

The committee has recently raised the benchmark Selic interest rate to 12.25 per cent, continuing its recent hikes aimed at controlling inflation.

Inflation reached 4.87 per cent for the 12 months ending November, exceeding the central bank's official target of 3 per cent, with a margin of error at 1.5 percentage points.

Xinhua news agency.

"For safety reasons, trails in the southern and central parts of the protected area have been closed," it said.

The report said that 46 firefighters were deployed to reinforce firefighting efforts in the rear section of the fire and improve escape routes to ensure the safety of the crew, and that poor visibility as a result of wildfire smoke has rendered aerial operations impossible.

According to local authorities, smoke from the wildfire "is already affecting the city of Bariloche," one of Argentina's top tourist destinations, known for its ski slopes in winter and lakes and mountains in summer.

In 2024, Argentina saw

significant outbreaks of wildfires primarily across Northern and Central Argentina that devastated large stretches of forests and farming land. The intensity and spread of the wildfires increased significantly in August and September 2024 due to drought conditions and elevated temperatures.

The climate and anthropogenic conditions leading to wildfires were widely present across several other South American nations such as Brazil and Peru, causing nations to suffer from devastating wildfire seasons.

As per the Argentine authorities, hundreds of wildfires had burnt at least 91,540 hectares (226,200 acres) of land this year.

Wildfire destroys 1,400 hectares of national park in Argentina

Buenos Aires, Dec 28 (IANS) A wildfire has destroyed around 1,450 hectares of the iconic Nahuel Huapi National Park in the southern Argentine province of Rio Negro, as per local authorities.

The fire broke out on Wednesday in the southern part of the park and has advanced towards the northern head of Lake Martin, reaching an area already devastated by wildfires in 2022, said a report from the park's administration on Friday, as per

Brazil’s Central Bank signals further interest rate hikes in early 2025

Brasilia, Dec. 18 (IANS) Brazil's Central Bank indicated in minutes from its latest Monetary Policy Committee (Copom) meeting, released on Tuesday, that it anticipates two additional increases to the Selic benchmark interest rate at the start of 2025.

The Central Bank cited the depreciation of the Brazilian real against the US dollar, which recently surpassed 6 reals per dollar, as well as negative market sentiment surrounding the government's proposed fiscal package. These factors have significantly impacted both prices and future interest rate expectations.

www.mccq.org.au

At last week's meeting, Copom raised the Selic rate by one percentage point to 12.25 per cent annually, marking the third consecutive hike, Xinhua news agency reported.

The bank emphasised that the worsening economic outlook requires a tighter monetary policy, driven by the exchange rate's depreciation and concerns over achieving inflation targets.

Copom will closely monitor how the real's devaluation and financial conditions influence prices and economic activity going forward.

The Central Bank highlighted that its decisions focus on inflation projections rather than current data, as changes to the Selic rate typically take six to 18 months to impact the economy.

Brazil is targeting an inflation rate of 3.0 per cent, with an allowable range between 1.5 per cent and 4.5 per cent.

On the global front, the Central

Bank noted that external conditions remain "challenging," particularly amid economic uncertainty in the United States and potential fallout from protectionist policies under incoming US President Donald Trump, which could impact exchange rates and interest rates.

Last Friday, Brazil's Central Bank had revealed that economic activity grew by 3.4 per cent over the past 12 months through October.

The bank's Economic Activity Index (IBC-Br) edged up 0.1 per cent in October from the previous month on a seasonally adjusted basis, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth.

The IBC-Br index, considered a preview of the GDP, also serves as a reference for the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee to adjust basic interest rates.

SOUTH AMERICA

Uruguay reports slower population growth

Montevideo, Dec 11 (IANS) Uruguay's 2023 national census counted 3,499,451 inhabitants, 2.5 percentage points higher than the 2011 one, the National Statistics Institute (INE) reported.

Despite the growth, the number of children per woman fell from 1.8 to 1.7, according to the census.

And there were 31,385 births registered in the country and

34,678 deaths last year, Xinhua news agency reported.

"We are with a negative population growth, unless immigration compensates, or we are already losing population," INE director Diego Aboal said, adding that Uruguay reported "a drop of 18,000 births" in the last eight years.

According to the census, the number of foreign residents settling in Uruguay has grown by 4 per cent since 2011.

Montevideo, the capital city, is still the most populous city with a population of 1,302,954, or 37 per cent of Uruguay's total.

Venezuelan FM condemns Blinken’s support for opposition figures

Caracas, Dec 31 (IANS) Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil has criticised US Secretary of State Antony Blinken for supporting "the worst opposition" in South America.

The Foreign Minister made the remarks on Monday on social media after Blinken voiced US support for two Venezuelan opposition figures.

Gil said that Washington has failed many times to "fight against" Venezuela during the past four years and this time it will be "no different".

He said that the Venezuelan people and government will overcome the obstacles made by the US and build a sovereign and independent country.

According to local media, Blinken pledged to "commit to a peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela" in a telephone with Venezuelan opposition figures on Monday.

The US Secretary of State praised the "resilience" of Venezuela's democratic opposition during a call with Venezuelan Opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and Opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, the State Department said on Monday.

In a statement issued by US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller after the call, Gonzalez was recognized as Venezuela's "President-elect".

According to the statement, Blinken "commended the democratic opposition's resilience and the Venezuelan people's commitment to democracy in the face of repression and adversity".

He also reiterated the US stands in solidarity with the international community in expressing condemnation of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's "anti-democratic actions".

"Secretary Blinken reaffirmed the United States' commitment to supporting the will of the Venezuelan people as expressed at the ballot box, the peaceful restoration of democracy in Venezuela, and the release of all unjustly detained political prisoners," Miller added.

Massive waves batter Ecuador and Peru, ports closed, fishermen rescued Lima, December 30 Massive waves reaching heights of up to 13 feet (4 meters) have pummeled the coasts of Ecuador and Peru, leaving ports closed and communities in distress, according to a Hindustan Times news quoring an AFP report. The extreme conditions, which began on Christmas Day, are expected to last until January 1.

Ecuador’s secretary for risk management, Jorge Carillo, described the event as an "extreme phenomenon" and cautioned that such occurrences may become more frequent in the future.

In Peru, almost all ports were shut down as waves battered the coastline, leaving public spaces submerged and residents fleeing to higher ground.

Enrique Varea, head of Peru’s naval Oceanographic Department, stated that the waves would begin to subside slightly by Monday and normalize in the first week of January.

Meanwhile, Larry Linch, head of Civil Defense in Peru’s Callao region, attributed the unusual wave activity to climate change, highlighting its growing impact on coastal regions.

The Peruvian navy explained that the waves were generated by winds along the ocean's surface off the US coast. Beaches along central and northern Peru were closed to protect lives, while Callao, home to the country’s largest port, banned tourist and fishing boats.

The disaster has severely impacted the fishing community.

A fisherman reported the loss of around 100 boats and called for urgent government assistance.

Thirty-one fishermen stranded at sea were rescued by the navy, while around 180 remain unaccounted for. Chile has also experienced similar wave activity along its central coast in Viña del Mar, prompting authorities to issue warnings.

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Los Angeles: A house is engulfed by the flames on the site of the Palisades fire in Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles County, California, the United States, on Jan. 7, 2025. Three major wildfires raging across Los Angeles County, the most populous county of the United States,

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Dubai: Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri meets Acting Foreign Minister of Afghanistan Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi in Dubai on Wednesday, January 8, 2025.

Male: India’s newly-appointed High Commissioner to the Maldives, G Balasubramanian, presents his credentials to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu in Male on Monday, January 6, 2025.

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to declare a national emergency at the southern border at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Tuesday, January 21, 2025

Ethiopia: The site of a traffic accident in Sidama region, Ethiopia. Over 60 people were killed Sunday in a traffic accident in south Ethiopia’s Sidama region when a truck carrying passengers plunged into the Galana River while crossing a bridge, said the regional communication office. www.mccq.org.au

Seoul: A twin female giant panda cub, Rui Bao, plays with her mother, Ai Bao, at the Everland amusement park in Yongin, south of Seoul, on Jan. 7, 2025, following her birth to 9-year-old giant panda Ai Bao and her partner, 10-year-old Le Bao, on July 7, 2023.

Seoul: Conservative civic groups hold a rally against the impeachment of President Yoon Suk Yeol near Gwanghwamun Square in central Seoul on Jan. 4, 2025.

Washington: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Majority Leader of the United States Senate John Thune at the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony at the White House in Washington on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Muan: Firefighters carry out search operations at Muan International Airport in the southwestern county of Muan on Dec. 30, 2024, after a Jeju Air passenger plane with 181 people aboard crashed the previous day

WORLD IN PICTURES

Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance at the 60th Presidential Inauguration Ceremony at White House in Washington on Tuesday, January 21, 2025.

Caption: Muan: Mourners pay tribute to the Jeju Air plane crash victims at a memorial altar at Muan Sports Park in the southwestern county on Dec. 30, 2024

Cairo: Bangladesh Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the D-8 Summit in Cairo, Egypt, on Thursday, December 19, 2024.

Seoul: Acting President Han Duck-soo convenes the National Security Council in Seoul on Dec. 14, 2024, shortly after President Yoon Suk Yeol was suspended from his duties following his impeachment.

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HEALTH

Oyster blood protein helps Japan sees record surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases fight against superbugs: Study

Tokyo, Jan 21 (IANS) Japan is experiencing a significant rise in mycoplasma pneumonia cases, with patient numbers reaching the highest levels for this time of year in the past decade.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the weekly average number of mycoplasma pneumonia patients per reporting medical institution reached 1.11 as of January 12, an increase of 0.34 from the previous week and the highest for this period in a decade.

Mycoplasma pneumonia, a common infection among children, causes symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headaches, and persistent coughing. In severe

cases, it can lead to pneumonia and require hospitalisation. It can take 1 to 4 weeks for symptoms to appear after someone's been exposed to the bacteria.

Symptoms can last for several weeks.

Meanwhile, erythema infectiosum, which begins with cold-like symptoms followed by red rashes on the cheeks, is also on the rise.

Reports from approximately 3,000 medical institutions nationwide showed an average of 0.94 cases per facility in the same week compared with 0.78 from the previous week, Xinhua news agency reported.

Experts stressed the importance of infection prevention measures, including wearing masks, as influenza also remains widespread.

M pneumoniae is the pathogen most commonly associated with disease in humans. M pneumoniae is now considered a common

cause of community-acquired pneumonia and is transmitted from person to person via respiratory droplets during close contact. It has an incubation period that ranges between 2 to 3 weeks.

Like most respiratory pathogens, infection usually occurs during the winter months but can happen year-round. Estimates show that around 1 per cent of the population of the United States is infected annually.

Incidence may be much higher since infection can be subclinical or cause milder disease that does not require hospitalisation.

Outbreaks of mycoplasma infection occur in military recruits, hospitals, nursing homes, and other long-term care facilities. Only five to ten per cent of people infected with mycoplasma develop pneumonia.

It causes upper and lower respiratory tract infections in all age groups.

Study shows fatty muscles raise heart disease risk regardless of BMI

New Delhi, Jan 20 (IANS) People with pockets of fat hidden inside their muscles are at a higher risk of dying or being hospitalised from a heart attack or heart failure, regardless of their body mass index, according to research on Monday.

The new study, published in the European Heart Journal, adds evidence that existing measures, such as body mass index (BMI) or waist circumference, are not adequate to evaluate the risk of heart disease accurately for all people.

The study showed that people with higher amounts of fat stored in their muscles were more likely to have damage to the tiny blood vessels that serve the heart (coronary microvascular dysfunction or CMD). They were also more likely to die or be hospitalised for heart disease.

People who had high levels of intermuscular fat and evidence of CMD were at an especially

high risk of death, heart attack, and heart failure. "Knowing that intermuscular fat raises the risk of heart disease gives us another way to identify people who are at high risk, regardless of their body mass index.

These findings could be particularly important for understanding the heart health effects of fat and muscle-modifying incretin-based therapies, including the new class of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists,” said Professor Viviany Taqueti, Director of the Cardiac Stress Laboratory at Brigham and Women's Hospital, US. The study analysed muscle and different types of fat in 669 people to understand how body composition can influence the small blood vessels or 'microcirculation' of the heart, as well as the future risk of heart failure, heart attack, and death.

These were followed up for around six years. Besides checking how well their hearts were functioning, the team also used CT scans to analyse each patient's body composition, measuring the amounts and location of fat and muscle in a section of their torso.

Further, the team calculated the

ratio of intermuscular fat to total muscle plus fat -- a measurement they called the fatty muscle fraction. For every 1 per cent increase in fatty muscle fraction, there was a 2 per cent increase in the risk of CMD and a 7 per cent increased risk of future serious heart disease, regardless of other known risk factors and body mass index.

On the other hand, people with higher amounts of lean muscle had a lower risk. Fat stored under the skin (subcutaneous fat) did not increase the risk.

"Compared to subcutaneous fat, fat stored in muscles may be contributing to inflammation and altered glucose metabolism, leading to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

In turn, these chronic insults can cause damage to blood vessels, including those that supply the heart, and the heart muscle itself,” Professor Taqueti said.

The team is assessing the impact of treatment strategies including exercise, nutrition, weight-loss drugs, or surgery, on body composition and metabolic heart disease, to help lower the risk for people with fatty muscles.

Japan’s bird flu cases surge in January

Tokyo, Jan 22 (IANS) Japan is experiencing a surge of avian influenza outbreaks, with approximately five million chickens and other birds culled across five prefectures this month.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries confirmed new outbreaks at two poultry farms in Morioka City this week, prompting the establishment of www.mccq.org.au

an on-site response headquarters in Iwate Prefecture.

In total, 26 outbreak sites have been identified this month, with nearly 5 million birds impacted.

The ministry warned that the outbreaks showed no signs of slowing and the situation may worsen, potentially breaking past records.

The ministry also noted the impact on egg prices, reporting a 15-per cent increase since the start of the year, Xinhua news agency reported.

Some industry observers have raised concerns about potential supply shortages as the effects of avian influenza begin to take hold.

Japan reported first bird flu outbreak of the season in October 2024 after several chickens were found dead at a poultry farm in Hokkaido.

After the detection of the highly pathogenic strain of avian influenza, Hokkaido's authorities culled approximately 19,000 chickens at the farm as a preventative measure.

Movement restrictions were also implemented, banning the transport of chickens and eggs within a three-kilometre radius of the farm and prohibiting the transport of poultry products outside a 10-kilometre radius.

Sydney, Jan 21 (IANS) A protein found in the blood of Australian oysters could help in the fight against antibiotic-resistant superbugs, according to a study published on Tuesday.

The study led by a team from Australia's Southern Cross University (SCU) discovered that a protein in the blood of the Sydney rock oyster is capable of killing bacteria as well as increasing the effectiveness of some antibiotics against a range of bacteria, Xinhua news agency reported.

In laboratory tests, they found that the protein was effective at killing Streptococcus

pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes, the bacteria that cause pneumonia and strep throat, respectively.

When used with antibiotics, the protein made them between two and 32 times more effective at killing the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The researchers said that the study supported the potential use of natural products from oysters to treat bacterial infections.

They found that the protein is not toxic to human cells, indicating that it should be possible to optimise a safe antibiotic from oyster blood. Antimicrobialresistant (AMR) superbugs, bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that no longer respond to antibiotics designed to kill them, have been identified as a major threat to global public health.

Excess maternal weight in 1st trimester linked to foetal fat accumulation: Study

New Delhi, Jan 18 (IANS) Foetuses of women who gain excess weight in the first trimester of pregnancy are likely to have excess fat distribution in their body, according to a study.

The study, led by researchers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), showed that foetuses in the womb may have more fat in their upper arm and the abdomen.

The findings, appearing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, may be key to developing early intervention

strategies to prevent adult obesity associated with heavier birth weight.

Excessive weight gain early in life is a known risk factor for adult obesity and related conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. For the study, the researchers analysed data from an earlier study of more than 2,600 singleton pregnancies.

This included information on maternal weight before and during pregnancy and three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound scans (up to five) throughout pregnancy. The results showed that pregnant people with excessive weight gain -- defined as more than 2 kilograms (about 4.4 pounds) in the first trimester -- had foetuses with larger abdominal circumferences.

Compared to women with adequate weight gain in their pregnancy, these babies in the womb also had more abdominal area and larger foetal arm fat thickness.

Zoonotic infections threat to human health: WHO ex chief scientist

Kochi, Jan 24 (IANS) Highlighting major challenges to human health amid a series of issues, including climate change and anti-microbial resistance, Soumya Swaminathan, former Chief Scientist of the World Health Organisation (WHO), on Friday said that most of the emerging viral threats are zoonotic infections transmitted from animals to humans.

She was speaking after the launch of various initiatives undertaken as part of a major research project on water quality assessment of Vembanad Lake and waterborne infectious diseases at ICAR-Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI). Swaminathan, who is also the former Director General

of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), emphasised the critical role of integrated research, including data from weather, climate, health, and environmental sources, to predict and prevent future outbreaks. Most of the health threats today originate from environmental factors, she said and hence suggested establishing an Environmental Health Regulatory Agency in India.

Swaminathan further pointed to dietary risks as the number one health threat in the country.

"Half of Indians cannot afford a nutritionally sufficient healthy diet," she added. Kerala and Tamil Nadu are experiencing a concerning rise in obesity and non-communicable diseases, alongside persistent issues like malnutrition, anaemia, and micronutrient deficiencies, all stemming from unhealthy dietary habits, added the top scientist.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg to perform Chrissy Teigen says social at Paris Olympics closing ceremony media should shut off ‘be-

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usic icons such as Billie Eilish, Snoop Dogg, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers are expected to perform in the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics on Sunday, according to sources.

The three artists will be seen

from Los Angeles in a mix of pretaped and live performances, reports variety.com.

Producer Ben Winston is collaborating with French producers for the Closing Ceremony.

Tensions are high around live music events this week after

authorities in Austria thwarted a terrorist attack plot during singer Taylor Swift’s performance in Vienna with her “The Eras Tour.”

Two high-ranking individuals familiar with the planning for the surprise L.A. concert stunt said security and crowd control have been a point of concern for local officials even before the news from Vienna.

Representatives for the Olympics and the musical artists declined to comment.

At the Closing Ceremony, the musical performances from Los Angeles are expected to follow a much-hyped stunt from Tom Cruise. Cruise will jump on his motorcycle for an average day of death-defying tricks in France, before tossing to a prerecorded package that will see him parachute down next to the iconic Hollywood sign.

At the end of Sunday’s Closing Ceremony, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will accept the Olympic Torch and bring it back as she returns from Paris.

Halle Berry: There was a time when you were 40, you were kind of done H

ollywood star Halle Berry, who has been a part of showbiz for over three decades, said that she came along at the right time when women are having longevity in the industry.

"I never thought I’d be doing this as a career, and then at this age and stage still being able to work at the level that I work on,” Berry said.

“But I came along at the right time when women are having longevity. There was a time when you were 40, you were kind of done. So it’s so nice to be a part of Hollywood now," the actress told told E! News.

“The Moonfall” star is now starring opposite Mark Wahlberg in the thriller titled “The Union”, where a man is recruited by his high school sweetheart on a high-stakes US intelligence mission.

She explained that it was "fun" to get the chance to tell such a story because it made her think about her own younger days, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

tween 6 p.m. and 6 a.m’

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odel Chrissy Teigen, who is married to singer John Legend, has urged for social media services to be suspended between the hours of 6pm and 6am to give everyone a break because "life was awesome" before platforms like Facebook and Instagram.

In a post on her Instagram Stories, she said: "I personally think that one day there will be the most incredible rule, my first rule would be — I think the government or some kind of ethics committee, somebody, should shut off social media between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.”

"Leave it all up. Everyone gets to do anything they want but only between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Shut it off. Done."

Teigen went on to add: "I come from the days where we had nothing and then we saw something. Guys, life was great.

Life was awesome before this.

I know it’s hard to see it now, but it’s doable. It’s very doable.

This doesn’t have to be our lives. And I say this for myself as well because, obviously, I’m on here right now doing this! But it doesn’t have to define us or be

our whole lives."

Her post comes after TikTok was taken down in the US after lawmakers in the country ordered the platform's Chinese owners ByteDance to sell the firm or face a black out in America, reports femalefirst.co.uk.

However, the platform has since been given a reprieve thanks to US President-elect Donald Trump, who has vowed to work with the company to find a solution after he officially takes office on Monday.

A statement from TikTok posted on X explained: "In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service.

"We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive. It’s a strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship.

We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States."

Robert Downey Jr. reveals what his ‘SNL’ stint taught him

Robert Pattinson finally claps back at claims about ‘Twilight’ series damaging vampire genre

H

ollywood star Robert Pattinson has finally clapped back at long-standing claims from horror film fans who are convinced the ‘Twilight’ franchise damaged the vampire genre. www.mccq.org.au

In the film franchise, the 38-year-old actor found global fame playing Edward Cullen, the vampire protagonist of the ‘Twilight’ films alongside Kristen Stewart, who played Bella Swan in the movies.

He told GQ Spain about how he doesn’t believe claims the series damaged the horror genre: “I love that people keep telling me, ‘Man, ‘Twilight’ ruined the vampire genre.’ Are you still stuck on that? How can you be sad about something that happened almost 20 years ago? It’s crazy.”

The first ‘Twilight’ film in the franchise debuted in 2008, marking the start of a cultural phenomenon.

Over the years, Pattinson has frequently reflected on the impact

of the series and the polarising responses it elicited from audiences, reports femalefirst. co.uk. In a 2019 interview with Variety, he commented on how divisive the films were.

He said: “The people who don’t like it are generally people who haven’t seen it, and they’re like all judgmental and stuff, and cynical people. But I think I am a judgmental and cynical person who would just mindlessly hate it without ever having seen anything.” He also shared to finding the series’ storyline unusual, adding: “I mean, it’s a weird story, ‘Twilight’. It’s strange how people responded.

They are very romantic, but at the same time, it’s not like ‘The Notebook’ romantic.

H

ollywood star Robert Downey Jr. is well aware of his limits and how far he can stretch himself as an actor.

He also expressed his gratitude to the commedy sketch series saying how it added to his repertoire as a performer, reports 'People' magazine.

The 'Iron Man' star, 59, is featured in the new four-part docuseries 'SNL50: Beyond Saturday Night', which delves into the history and legacy of the iconic late-night sketch show

'Saturday Night Live'.

As per 'People', he was a cast member on season 11 of the show, which ran from 1985 to 1986. The actor, who was just 20 years old at the time, said he was appreciative of his brief stint on 'SNL' because it helped him better understand his lane as a performer.

“I learned so much in that year about what I wasn’t. But there’s not a more exciting 90 minutes you could have, whether you are any good or not”, he said.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Paris Hilton shares what her son Justin Bieber unfollows wants to become after growing up wife Hailey Bieber amid divorce rumours

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merican socialite Paris Hilton has shared that her son Phoenix wants to be a good samaritan when he grows up.

Speaking during a new interview, Hilton, 43, revealed that her 2-year-old son wants to be a firefighter in the future amid her losing her Malibu home in the Los Angeles wildfires, reports ‘People’ magazine.

She told TMZ, “He said he wants

to be a fireman”. The reality TV star went on to share that she was “heartbroken for everybody who has lost everything” following the devastation caused by the fires.

“The families, the children, the animals, it’s just been heartbreaking to see what’s happened to California”, she told the outlet.

As per ‘People’, Hilton also discussed fostering a dog named

Zuzu, whom she previously revealed she had taken into her home after the pooch’s family "unfortunately had to surrender her after their home was destroyed in the wildfires”.

“We love Zuzu”, Hilton told TMZ as she looked at her son Phoenix.

The mother of two shared that Zuzu’s owners lost their home in Altadena in the fires and she and her family have been fostering him for the past week.

“We’ve all just fallen in love with him”, she added, before revealing that the family is now going to adopt the dog. As for whether or not she is planning to rebuild her home, Hilton said her husband, Carter Reum, is “dealing with all that”.

Hilton’s comments come just over a week after she revealed the burnt remains of her Malibu home after it was destroyed in the Pacific Palisades fire.

I’m standing here in what used to be our home, and the heartbreak is truly indescribable”, Hilton wrote alongside the footage shared on Instagram. “When I first saw the news, I was in complete shock, I couldn’t process it. But now, standing here and seeing it with my own eyes, it feels like my heart has shattered into a million pieces”.

She added, “This house wasn’t just a place to live, It was where we dreamed, laughed, and created the most beautiful memories as a family”.

Hailey Bieber shares snap of sleeping hubby Justin after claims of him unfollowing her

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ailey Bieber is clearing the air after claims of husband Justin Bieber unfollowing her on Instagram. The couple are putting on a united front.

Recently, the model, 28, shared a defiant carousel post after her husband Justin Bieber, with whom she shares son Jack, 5 months, claimed someone unfollowed her on his Instagram account, reports ‘People’ magazine.

The post included a photo of Justin, 30, sleeping, a snap from

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their recent Aspen vacation and various images of her Rhode beauty line.

Earlier, Justin shutdown claims that he had unfollowed his wife on Instagram. “Someone went on my account and unfollowed my wife", he wrote on his Instagram Stories. "S*** is getting suss out here”.

As per ‘People’, the ‘Baby’ singer also shared photos on Instagram on Saturday, January 18, of the pair ice skating during a romantic evening on their recent

vacation in Aspen.

"The greatest woman I have and will ever know", he captioned the snap of his wife on his Instagram Stories. This came after Hailey was seen having a ski lesson during the trip.

Back in December, Hailey appeared to respond to critics who claimed her marriage was strained by resharing a TikTok of a user saying, “You’re not well, and it’s okay”.

S

inger-songwriter Justin Bieber has sparked concern among his fans with regards to his marriage to Hailey Bieber.

Justin has unfollowed his wife Hailey on Instagram. The couple had welcomed their first child last year, but have been at the centre of split speculations for months, reports ‘Mirror.co.uk’.

Social media users have been claiming "it doesn't look like things are going well" in the couple's romance, despite them recently welcoming son Jack Blues into the world over the summer.

As per ‘Mirror.co.uk’, when searching for Hailey's account under Justin's following list, it returns with "no users found".

Hailey, 28, is still following her husband Justin. The singer

previously unfollowed his fatherin-law Stephen Baldwin and recently shared snaps of a bong.

Fans were left confused by the move as one said: "What could be the reason? Does anyone have an idea”.

Another added, "Interesting".

Someone else commented, "She still follows him sooo hopefully it was a mistake by Justin”.

A fourth wrote, "Hopefully this was a mistake because they just had a child”.

One fan pointed out Justin had posted a sweet message about Hailey just two days ago. They said, "It's very clear it's a mistake as he posted a sweet message to her the other day, I know many people keep wishing on these two downfall and I think it's so pathetic”.

Bob Dylan’s ‘Mr. Tambourine Man’ lyrics sold for over $500, 000

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ob Dylan’s 'Mr. Tambourine Man' is one of the most iconic tracks, and a gift that keeps giving. Two pages of Bob's drafted lyrics to 'Mr. Tambourine Man' have been auctioned for over half a million dollars.

Recently, Julien’s Auctions hosted an auction to sell 60 items related to the celebrated singer, including photos, music sheets, his guitar, pencil drawings and an oil painting he created, reports 'People' magazine.

All but 10 of the items were from the personal collection of late music journalist Al Aronowitz, as per the auction house’s site.

The auction generated nearly $1.5 million in in-person and online bidding sales. The typewritten lyrics accounted for one-third of the sales, totaling $508,000.

As per 'People', the sheets included three drafts of Dylan’s 1965 song 'Mr. Tambourine Man' from his album 'Bringing It All Back Home'. The song first appeared as the album’s lead track on the acoustic side. The Byrds' 1965 cover topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the U.S. and the U.K. Singles Chart.

The yellow sheets of paper also included Dylan’s handwritten annotations.

The auctioneer said that Dylan wrote the original draft lyrics in Aronowitz’s New Jersey home after Dylan broke up with his girlfriend, Suze Rotolo, according to Aronowitz’s 1973 Sunday News article, 'Bob Dylan: The Champ Has No Contenders'.

As per Julien’s, Aronowitz wrote, "Bob Dylan wrote ‘Mr.

Tambourine Man’ one night in my house in Berkeley Heights, N.J., sitting with my portable typewriter at my white formica breakfast bar in a swirl of chain-lit cigaret (sic) smoke, his bony, long-nailed fingers tapping the words out on my stolen, canary-colored Saturday Evening Post copy paper while the whole time, over and over again, Marvin Gaye sang ‘Can I Get a Witness?’ from the 6-foot speakers of my hi-fi in the room next to where he was, with Bob getting up from the typewriter each time the record finished in order to put the needle back at the start". Aronowitz later wrote that he “found a waste basket full of crumpled false starts". He confesses he almost took the papers to the trash, but he was moved not to and “took the crumpled sheets, smoothed them out, read the crazy leaping lines, smiled to (himself) at the leaps that never landed and then put the sheets into a file folder".

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