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Dear ST reader,
We hope you’ve been keeping well.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi this week bolstered his image as a strong nationalist leader of the nation’s majority Hindus, when he led the consecration ceremony for the new Ram temple in Ayodhya.
It will take another four years before construction is completed, but analysts tell bureau chief Nirmala Ganapathy that the temple ceremony unofficially kicked off the 2024 election campaign for Mr Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party. The upcoming polls have also unleashed a wave of competitive religiosity amongst BJP’s rivals, notes associate editor Ravi Velloor.
In politics elsewhere, Thai opposition figure Pita Limjaroenrat was cleared to return as a Member of Parliament after a court ruled he had not contravened rules barring lawmakers from holding shares in a media company. His Move Forward party however faces another legal hurdle next week, when a court will decide if the party’s bid to amend the lese majeste law amounts to an attempt to overthrow the monarchy.
We also look at Myanmar this week – with Debarshi Dasgupta reporting on the controversy over India’s decision to fence up the border with its eastern neighbour, and Lim Min Zhang assessing China’s role and interests in maintaining peace in Myanmar.
For a change of pace, read Jonathan Pearlman’s piece on killing trees for a view, and Walter Sim’s story on the lengths people go to for a decent night’s shut-eye.
Temple consecration gives Modi campaign a boost
Can Taiwan party Kuomintang revive its fortunes?
Indonesia’s poll candidates use Israel-Hamas war to score points
High heels and new hairdo: Kim Jong Un’s daughter’s new look fuels succession talk
India’s move to fence Indo-Myanmar border draws opposition
It’s complicated: What’s behind the Iran-Pakistan strikes
Sleep-starved Japanese pursue quality slumber
Listen to a Letter from the Bureau podcast:
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/asian-insider-new-temple-boosts-modi-s-re-election-bid-sleepless-in-japan
| 2024-01-25T13:19:33Z
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SINGAPORE - Five foreigners suspected of drug trafficking were arrested in Cambodia on Jan 22 during a drug bust that netted 1.51 tonnes of narcotics.
In a statement on Jan 24, the Cambodian Anti-Drug Department identified one of the suspects as a 59-year-old Singaporean.
But it issued a clarification the next day, saying the man was using an alias, and was actually a 62-year-old Chinese national.
The drugs – brought into the country from Laos – were believed to be heading to Taiwan.
The suspects – all men – were arrested during simultaneous raids in three places at 3.15am on Jan 22, the statement added.
The three spots were the Steung Hav International Port in Preah Sihanouk province in the south-west of Cambodia, an unmarked house in Sihanoukville, the capital of Preah Sihanouk province, and a residential address in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh.
Of the five arrested, two others are Chinese nationals, while the remaining two are Taiwanese.
The Anti-Drug Department said it seized 980kg of ketamine and 532kg of methamphetamine, also known as Ice.
It also seized two fishing boats, a car and motorcycle, as well as nine mobile phones.
Cambodia is not viewed as part of the Golden Triangle – the region where the borders of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar meet – but the kingdom has become a “key transit” and production hub for the regional drug trade, according to a 2023 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Criminal syndicates, the report added, have set up bases elsewhere in the region as insurance, with Cambodia being one of the prime spots.
The Straits Times has contacted the UNODC for more information.
Editor’s note: This article has been edited for accuracy.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/5-foreigners-arrested-in-cambodia-for-suspected-drug-trafficking-15-tonnes-of-drugs-seized
| 2024-01-25T13:19:35Z
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MANILA – The Philippines and Vietnam will agree to boost coast guard cooperation during a visit to Hanoi next week by Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr, a move that risks angering China.
The two South-east Asian countries have competing claims over swathes of the South China Sea, an important waterway for fishing and global trade that China claims almost in its entirety.
The two countries will sign a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between their coast guard forces, the Philippine Coast Guard said on Jan 25.
It is unclear what the agreement will entail, but coast guard cooperation is crucial to reducing the risk of clashes between fishing vessels that encroach into foreign waters, a step that could help ease bilateral territorial disputes.
China, with its vast claims to the South China Sea, tends to view progress in the resolution of border disputes among other claimants with scepticism.
After Vietnam and Indonesia recognised the boundaries of their respective exclusive economic zones in the South China Sea in December 2022, China’s coast guard repeatedly sailed close to those strategic areas, triggering angry reactions from both Jakarta and Hanoi.
China’s response, however, could be muted in this case because the deal is not about recognition of maritime claims, said Mr Phan Xuan Dung, researcher on Vietnam at the Singapore-based Iseas think-tank.
Mr Marcos will meet Vietnamese leaders on a two-day visit starting on Jan 29, Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Jan 25, noting the Philippines and Vietnam have close ties in multiple fields, including defence and security.
In November, Mr Marcos said the Philippines approached Vietnam and other neighbours to discuss a separate code of conduct for the South China Sea, another move that would irk China, which has been promoting a broader regional pact for years without success.
The two countries are also expected to boost their cooperation on rice supplies, according to a Philippine official, with the Philippines being already the largest market for Vietnam’s exports.
“The two most promising areas of cooperation between the Philippines and Vietnam are food security and maritime security,” Mr Alexander Vuving, of the Hawaii-based Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Centre for Security Studies, said.
“But Vietnam is far more cautious than the Philippines about not angering China” on maritime security, he added. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-vietnam-to-sign-coast-guard-deal-risking-china-s-ire
| 2024-01-25T13:19:35Z
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SINGAPORE - A lesser mousedeer has died after it was rescued from a drain in Mandai on Jan 17.
A video of the rare animal and its rescue was uploaded onto the Singapore Wildlife Sightings Facebook group on Jan 19 and garnered a few hundred views.
The lesser mousedeer, listed as endangered here, is the smallest known hoofed mammal that is widely distributed across South-east Asia. They are generally reddish-brown in colour with white underparts.
In response to media queries, Mandai Wildlife Group said it received the mousedeer from animal welfare charity Animal Concerns Research and Education Society (Acres) on Jan 17.
Estimated to be a female juvenile, the animal was “in poor condition and exhibited signs of stress”, said Mandai’s deputy vice-president for veterinary healthcare, Dr Abraham Mathew.
“Hoof and leg injuries were present, and the animal showed reluctance to move. Trauma, shock, and myopathy were suspected,” he added. Myopathy generally refers to any disease that affects the muscles that control voluntary movement in the body.
The mousedeer died overnight despite Mandai’s attempts to stabilise the animal’s condition.
“A post-mortem examination further revealed the severity of its condition, confirming emaciation, pressure sores and broken hooves,” Dr Mathew said. “The species is known to succumb to prolonged stress, and as myopathy was suspected, it exacerbated the condition.”
Earlier, Facebook user Mamat VesPapa said on the social media platform that he had spotted the shivering mousedeer stuck in a drain while he was on a hike on his birthday.
He then wrapped the animal in a thermal sheet after rescuing it from the drain and called Acres.
Mandai’s Dr Mathew advised the public to promptly call Acres’ hotline on 9783-7782 or the National Parks’ Board’s 24-hour animal response centre helpline on 1800-476-1600 for assistance, if they see injured animals.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/lesser-mousedeer-dies-from-trauma-and-injuries-after-being-rescued-from-mandai-drain
| 2024-01-25T13:19:37Z
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SINGAPORE – German carmaker Porsche picked Singapore to launch its first electric sport utility vehicle on Jan 25 – the first time an international model unveiling has been held here.
The battery-powered Macan retains the name of its combustion-engined predecessor, the first-generation Macan that was launched in 2014. It is slightly bigger, and like most electric vehicles, significantly heavier.
It will be available in two variants initially. The lesser Macan 4 starts from $254,888 before certificate of entitlement (COE) and options, and promises a driving range of 613km. The more powerful Macan Turbo starts from $388,088 before COE and options, and has a claimed range of 591km.
Combustion-engined Macans, which will continue to be sold alongside the electric newcomer indefinitely, range from $269,088 to $389,588 before COE and options.
The German company that is part of Volkswagen Group announced in early 2022 that it was aiming for electric models to account for more than 80 per cent of its new car sales by 2030. The Taycan saloon, Porsche’s first electric model launched in 2019, accounted for around 13 per cent of sales in 2023.
However, Porsche vice-president (overseas and emerging markets) Matthias Becker would not say if this target was still realistic in the light of governments pulling back on EV subsidies.
“It may be a little more, or it may be a little less. The customer will decide whether he wants an EV or ICE car. We’re flexible,” he told The Straits Times on Jan 25, but added that he was convinced that “the world is getting electrified, because of (environmental) regulations”.
Dr Zafar Momin, an adjunct associate professor at the National University of Singapore Business School, said the new Macan “looks like a winner”, but its commercial success will be influenced by pricing and the price difference compared with the combustion engine version.
The former Boston Consulting automotive expert added: “The current Macan is the biggest seller in the Porsche portfolio and this new EV model could potentially grow that slice of the portfolio.”
The Macan has been Porsche’s bestselling model since it was introduced 10 years ago. In 2023, 87,355 were sold around the world, accounting for 27.3 per cent of total Porsche sales. The percentage share is higher in Singapore, which has one of the highest per capita population of luxury cars.
The Macan contributed to 35.4 per cent of sales here in 2021, when Porsches were still being sold through Stuttgart Auto, its dealer here for more than 30 years.
Porsche has since taken over as its own retailer in Singapore. Along with the launch of the electric Macan, the company officially opened its Guoco Midtown showroom in Bugis. The only car showroom in the area, the Porsche Studio spans 8,500 sq ft over two levels, and can display around six cars at a time.
Like many car showrooms today, it has an F&B outlet. Cafe Carrera is run by bakery chain Baker & Cook, and is open to the public.
In an adjacent block, the Porsche office occupies the sixth floor, where staff from Porsche Singapore, the regional office and the company-owned financing arm are housed.
The open-concept office has 66 desks shared by around 100 employees, facilitating hot-desking and hybrid work arrangements.
Porsche would not say how much it had invested in the new facilities, but said it has taken up long-term leases.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/porsche-picks-singapore-to-unveil-electric-macan-suv-to-world
| 2024-01-25T13:19:54Z
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England will take on Japan in the final match of their 2024 November series at Twickenham as Steve Borthwick's side face former head coach Eddie Jones for the second time this year.
The RFU announced the series fixtures on Thursday plus a game that is yet to be confirmed.
It begins with England playing New Zealand on Nov. 2, Australia the following weekend and then South Africa before finishing against Japan on the weekend of Nov. 23.
England will also visit the Brave Blossoms in June in the first Test match between the two teams in Japan.
England last played Japan in Pool D at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, winning 34-12 on their way to topping the table. Japan finished third in the group, ensuring qualification for the next World Cup, with wins over Chile and Samoa.
Jones was named Japan head coach in December, having resigned from the Australia job after their worst ever Rugby World Cup campaign as they exited at the pool stage for the first time.
Borthwick, who took over as England head coach after Jones was sacked in December 2022, had been his assistant with England and in the Australian's first term with Japan from 2012-2015. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/england-to-host-japan-in-november-series
| 2024-01-25T13:20:05Z
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BERLIN - Surprise Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen are counting on the efficiency of midfielder Alejandro Grimaldo to help them stretch their winning run in 2024 with a home victory over Borussia Moenchengladbach in the Rhine derby on Saturday.
Xabi Alonso's team have won their two league games this year and have made it 12 wins in their last 14 Bundesliga matches to take control of the title race on 48 points and open up a four-point gap over second-placed champions Bayern Munich.
Leverkusen have so far found attacking solutions despite the absence of their top scorer Victor Boniface, who was ruled out for months following surgery for an adductor muscle injury earlier in January during the winter break.
One of the keys to Leverkusen's success this year has been Spaniard Grimaldo, whose skills and versatility have seen him orchestrate their midfield while also scoring.
The 28-year-old has bagged seven goals while also setting up a further eight for his team mates, including their last-gasp winner in a 3-2 success at RB Leipzig last week when he floated a corner to the far post for Piero Hincapie to slot in.
Striker Patrik Schick, who is expected to start once more, is set to make his 100th Bundesliga appearance and could score his 50th league goal, having netted in each of his four matches against Gladbach so far.
But Leverkusen, often derided as a team lacking a winning mentality and nicknamed 'Neverkusen' for their inability to win titles, are now unbeaten in 27 consecutive matches across all competitions this season.
Title rivals Bayern, chasing a record-extending 12th consecutive league crown, cut Leverkusen's lead with a 1-0 win over Union Berlin in their postponed encounter on Wednesday.
For much of the game they looked somewhat sharper than in Sunday's shock 1-0 home loss to Werder Bremen but were still far from their best, wasting chances before scoring at the start of the second half through Raphael Guerreiro.
"I feel our performance (against Union) was completely different form the one on Sunday against Werder," Bayern coach Thomas Tuchel said after Wednesday's win. "Werder had counter attacks from the start."
Bayern will, however, not have an easy task at their Bavarian rivals Augsburg on Saturday with the hosts having won their last two matches on home soil against the champions.
Third-placed VfB Stuttgart, who on 34 points are 10 behind Bayern, host RB Leipzig, in fourth on 33.
The pair, along with fifth-placed Borussia Dortmund also on 33, are locked in a battle for a top-four finish that brings Champions League football next season. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/bundesliga-leaders-leverkusen-count-on-grimaldo-to-extend-winning-run
| 2024-01-25T13:20:15Z
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PARIS - The Olympics cannot be expected to solve armed conflicts, but it can pacify relations and open the door for dialogue, Paris 2024 president Tony Estanguet told Reuters as the Games prepares to deal with issues arising from the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.
Sports authorities have been criticised for allowing some Russian and Belarusian athletes to compete in this year's Olympics following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, for which Belarus has been used as a staging ground.
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) in December ruled that Russians and Belarusians who qualify in their sports for the Paris Games can take part as neutrals without flags, emblems or anthems, angering Ukraine who had demanded a ban.
The war in Gaza has also affected the build-up to Paris 2024, raising questions about the safety of the Israel delegation, 52 years after 11 sportsmen, coaches and a referee were killed in an attack by Palestinian gunmen on the Israeli team's quarters in the Olympic village in Munich.
Estanguet said that all athletes taking part in the Games should be guaranteed safety and respect, but the Olympics could not be expected to provide solutions to global conflicts.
"It's hard to know six months down the line whether things are going to get worse or calmer," Estanguet, who won Olympic canoeing gold at the 2000, 2004 and 2012 Games, told Reuters.
"You have to stay in your place, not think that the Games are a magic wand that will solve all the problems and armed conflicts in our world, but with the deep conviction that they have a tendency to pacify relations and leave a space for dialogue and positive expression, and that each delegation, each qualified athlete must be respected."
Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo last year said she was opposed to Russian competitors at the 2024 Games, calling their participation "obscene".
Yet only the IOC decides who can take part in the Olympics, not the hosts, which Estanguet believes is how it should be.
"I find it reassuring to see that, on such a complex subject, it's not the organising country that decides which countries can take part in an event," he said.
"In 2014 in Russia (Sochi) and in 2022 in China (Beijing), at no time were these nations able to influence which countries could take part in the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and I think that's healthy."
Estanguet, Hidalgo and French President Emmanuel Macron received an open letter from 192 Ukrainian athletes asking them to exclude Russians from the Paris Olympics.
ISRAEL CLOSELY WATCHED
Estanguet suggested the Israeli delegation was likely to receive special attention during the Games.
Israel unleashed a campaign to eliminate Iran-backed Hamas after militants burst into Israel on Oct. 7 and rampaged through southern towns and bases, killing 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and taking 253 hostages back to Gaza.
The Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said over 25,000 Palestinians - many of them women and children - have been killed in Israeli strikes since Oct. 7.
"We are taking a very strict approach to all the delegations, with the Prefecture of Police and the State working with the intelligence services," he said.
"I've been to the Games (four times as an athlete), and we know that this is a delegation that, given what happened at the Munich Games in particular, is extremely closely watched and accompanied to guarantee its security at the time of the Games.
"The threat level is regularly updated so that the police and security services can guarantee that every participant in the Games and every spectator who comes to experience the magic of the Games will be in complete safety."
The security budget for the Paris 2024 Games has been estimated at around 300 million euros ($326.55 million) but is likely to be much higher.
"Security remains a priority at the Olympics, and we expect that there will be demonstrations and demands. We are a free country where people can put forward their ideas, but we want them to be peaceful and respectful of all those who want to enjoy the festivities," said Estanguet.
"We will manage the situation as it arises, and we need to be able to react immediately as best we can, respecting the integrity of everyone involved, not overreacting, and guaranteeing the continuity of the Games' operations. We want to welcome the athletes in the best possible conditions." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/games-cannot-be-magic-wand-amid-global-conflicts-says-paris-2024-boss
| 2024-01-25T13:20:26Z
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PARIS - Transport and security are the main two challenges Paris 2024 will face at this year's Olympics, and organising committee president Tony Estanguet is confident everything will go smoothly when the Games start on July 26.
The extravaganza will kick off with a dazzling opening ceremony on and along the River Seine, with up to 500,000 spectators expected to attend the athletes' parade.
Paris is a dense, compact city with most of the sporting venues within a 30-minute commute from the Olympic village.
Security is a top priority and organisers and the government will need to liaise to make it work.
"We've contracted 70% of our needs in terms of private security at the end of 2023," Estanguet told Reuters.
"We have a last series of tenders that are ongoing to cover the remaining 30% in the first trimester, which will give us visibility and we'll take it from there to see how we can develop private and public security to make the Games safe."
Last year Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo said the transportation network was "not ready" to cope with the demands of the Olympics.
Sources told Reuters she was not happy with the lack of cooperation from the regional authorities, who manage the Paris Metro.
Estanguet, however, believes operations will go smoothly thanks to better staffing and increased number of trains during a usually calm period.
"We have a very precise forecast of what we will need in terms of transport and security day-by-day," he said, flagging up that the Games were within budget.
France is acutely aware how the 2022 Champions League final, hastily arranged in Paris after being moved to France from St Petersburg following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, turned into a fiasco and Estanguet said lessons had been learnt. He was confident there would be no repeat of the crowd troubles that marred that event.
"France has a real expertise in big event organisation and the (2023) Rugby World Cup was a great success that swept aside the doubts triggered by the Champions League final that was organised at very short notice," Estanguet said. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/olympic-paris-ready-to-deliver-successful-games-says-estanguet
| 2024-01-25T13:20:36Z
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MELBOURNE - Coco Gauff will take plenty of positives out of her last Grand Slam campaign as a teenager once the pain of her loss to Aryna Sabalenka in a thrilling Australian Open semi-final fades.
The American went toe-to-toe with the powerful second seed for 102 minutes on Thursday but was unable to replicate her victory in last year's U.S. Open final and get a shot at landing a second major title as she went down 7-6(2) 6-4.
"Tough match for me tonight. Overall a positive tournament. I had chances in both sets, but she played better tonight," said Gauff. "I think it just came down to a couple of points, and that's tennis.
"At this stage in any tournament, but especially a Grand Slam, whether I lost 6-1 6-1, or like I did today, or in a third-set tiebreak, I still think it would hurt just as much."
Gauff said she thought she had played better in Thursday's clash than at Flushing Meadows last September when she clinched her first Grand Slam title in three sets.
The 19-year-old world number four made such a big impression on the sport's biggest stage at such a young age that it seems remarkable that her teens will only come to an end in March.
Although she was generally quite hard on herself, Gauff said she was proud of her achievements in the 4-1/2 years since she reached the fourth round of Wimbledon at the age of 15.
"Overall, this stage of my life, it was obviously a successful time," she added.
"I did want to win a Slam as a teenager, and I did that. Obviously today I was hoping to get number two, or at least give myself a chance to get number two. It didn't happen, but I feel like I'm there. So hopefully I can go only upwards from here."
Most importantly, perhaps, Gauff said she was still enjoying her tennis, even in defeat.
"I watched these matches growing up and watching Serena (Williams) and watching (Maria) Sharapova lose these matches," she said.
"When you're in it, it feels like the end of the world but then when you look at history, they didn't let one match define their career.
"I'm going to dwell on it tonight but ... the sun is going to rise tomorrow. Tomorrow, I don't know, I'm going to try to go to the movies or something, be proud of myself." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/tennis/gauff-hurting-but-proud-of-teen-achievement-after-melbourne-semi-loss
| 2024-01-25T13:20:46Z
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ANKARA - Turkey is considering opening new border crossings with eastern neighbour Iran, President Tayyip Erdogan said late on Wednesday after talks with his Iranian counterpart, as they seek to revive sagging economic relations.
Erdogan, speaking at a Turkish-Iranian business council meeting alongside Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi, blamed international sanctions on Tehran and the COVID pandemic for a decline in trade volumes.
Trade between Turkey and Iran peaked in 2012 at nearly $22 billion but has since fallen. It stood at $7.4 billion in 2023, according to Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat, down from around $10 billion a year earlier.
"The issue of opening new border gates with Iran is also on our agenda. Efforts to establish trade centres in border (areas) to increasing the economic development of our border provinces continue," he said.
Turkey, a NATO ally, and Iran currently have four border crossings between them. One of those gates, between the Gurbulak-Bazergan regions, has been under construction since 2021.
"While we have left behind the pandemic, the restrictive effect of sanctions lingers," Erdogan said, adding that Turkey would not cut its economic ties with Iran because of the international measures.
"In the current state, sanctions are causing problems in our business ties with Iran, especially issues caused by the banking system," Erdogan said.
Full implementation of a preferential trade agreement between Ankara and Tehran is the best way to improve commercial ties, he added.
Erdogan said he expected Raisi's support in ensuring that obstacles to Turkish firms' operations in Iran, such as fuel price issues and frequency limits for airlines, were resolved, adding that Ankara would then encourage companies to invest more in Iran with a "win-win understanding".
Iran's economy has been crippled by the sanctions, imposed over its nuclear programme. Tehran denies Western assertions that it aims to build a nuclear weapon.
Turkey, which has also been hit with U.S. sanctions for acquiring Russian defence systems, opposes what it calls unilateral economic sanctions as a policy. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/erdogan-eyeing-more-trade-with-iran-says-turkey-weighing-opening-new-border-crossings
| 2024-01-25T13:20:56Z
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LONDON - Britain is returning a selection of Ghanaian gold regalia looted from an Asante king in the 19th century, in a historic loan deal set out on Thursday.
Some 32 artefacts from the British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London will be loaned to the Manhyia Palace Museum in the Ghanaian city of Kumasi, 150 years after they were stolen, the museums said in a statement.
The objects, including a gold peace pipe and a sword of state, "are of cultural, historical and spiritual significance to the Asante people," the statement said.
"They are also indelibly linked to British colonial history in West Africa, with many of them looted from Kumasi during the Anglo-Asante wars of the 19th century."
Britain is at the centre of an impassioned debate over the repatriation of priceless objects appropriated in colonial times. Nigeria and Ethiopia are among a number of countries seeking repatriation of looted artefacts.
However, some museums say they are banned by law from permanently returning contested items in their collections.
A dispute over the Parthenon sculptures, housed at the British Museum, escalated last year when Britain's Prime Minister Rishi Sunak cancelled a meeting with Greek premier Kyriakos Mitsotakis in a row over discussing their status.
Greece has repeatedly called on the museum to return the 2,500-year-old sculptures that British diplomat Lord Elgin removed from the Parthenon temple in the early 19th century.
The museum's trustees have said they would consider a loan to Greece if Athens acknowledges its ownership of the sculptures, which Greek governments have refused in the past.
The partnership with the Ghanaian museum comes after Asante King Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, known as the Asantehene, visited London last May to attend the coronation of King Charles.
He met the leaders of the London museums, opening discussions which were followed by months of negotiations over the potential return of Ghana's "crown jewels".
The gold peace pipe and gold discs worn by officials responsible for cleansing the soul of the king are among 17 items V&A plans to lend to the Ghanaian museum.
Objects selected from the British Museum consist mostly of royal regalia looted from the palace in Kumasi during the Anglo-Asante wars.
The items will be loaned under two separate three-year agreements and are due to form part of an exhibition planned for the Ghanaian king's silver jubilee celebration later this year, according to the statement.
Asante kings grew powerful on local gold deposits and the palace in Kumasi became the focal point for a lucrative international gold trade from West Africa, the statement said. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/britain-to-return-looted-royal-regalia-to-ghana-in-loan-deal
| 2024-01-25T13:21:07Z
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BERLIN - Hundreds of thousands of Germans have been demonstrating against right-wing extremism and the nationalist Alternative for Germany (AfD) in the country's biggest wave of protests for years.
Here's what we know about the protests as they enter their third week:
WHAT SPARKED THE PROTESTS?
The protests began after a report that some senior AfD party officials discussed policies such as the mass deportation of citizens of foreign origin at a meeting with right-wing radicals in Potsdam, just outside Berlin.
The proposals for "unassimilated citizens" to be deported to "a model state in north Africa", reported by the media outlet Correctiv, horrified many Germans. Some have compared the proposals to the Nazis' initial plan to deport European Jews to Madagascar and the meeting to the 1942 conference of Wannsee - near Potsdam - where Nazi officials plotted the Holocaust.
Many say they can no longer stay silent about the rise of Germany's most successful far-right party since the Nazis.
The protests have also coincided with statements by business leaders fearing the impact of the rise of the far-right on Germany's image and attractiveness to investors and foreign skilled labour.
WHO IS ORGANISING THE PROTESTS?
Civil society groups and alliances together with mainstream parties, trade unions and churches, with names like "Together against the Right", "Cologne stands up" or "Live Democracy", are largely behind the protests.
According to "Together against the Right", protests are planned in some 160 towns over coming weeks.
HOW HAS THE AFD REACTED?
The AfD has sought to distance itself from the deportation proposal, saying it is not party policy. Co-leader Alice Weidel parted ways with an adviser who attended the talks in Potsdam.
But the report spotlighted extremist strands in the AfD that intelligence agencies have long warned about. The party is under government surveillance on suspicion of extremism.
AfD leaders have also sought to minimize the protests, saying images have been manipulated and the gatherings are an attempt by the government to distract from its failings.
WHAT ARE PROTESTERS CALLING FOR?
The protesters are looking to curb support for the AfD, which is polling in second place nationally and first in the three eastern German states holding elections this year.
One proposal being floated is a ban on the AfD, although the legal hurdles to that are high and many politicians fear it could backfire, allowing the party to depict itself as a victim and sparking even more anger at the political establishment.
More generally the protesters say they are looking to wake up society so it acknowledges the danger the AfD represents.
WHY IS THE AFD SO POPULAR?
Started originally in 2013 as an anti-euro party during the euro zone debt crisis, the AfD gained ground in 2015 as the only party to criticise then Chancellor Angela Merkel's open-door policy that let in hundreds of thousands of migrants.
It also gained supporters by campaigning against lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Latterly, it has won support as disillusionment with Germany's mainstream political parties took hold during a cost of living crisis and surging inflation. It has also benefited from some discontent with the country's push towards a green transition, which it says is too expensive.
It also opposes German support for Ukraine after the Russian invasion in 2022.
HAVE THE PROTESTS IMPACTED SUPPORT FOR THE AFD?
Two nationwide polls published this week showed a slight dent in support for the AfD but a separate poll on Thursday for the eastern state of Saxony showed it maintaining its position on 35%.
Analysts say the protests could affect the voting intentions of those who had hitherto been supporting the AfD simply out of frustration with other parties.
"People who do not share the AfD's ideological agenda will possibly question whether they want to really support such a political orientation," Ruediger Schmitt-Beck at Mannheim University told German broadcaster SWR.
For those who back the AfD out of conviction however, the protests will likely further entrench their position, contributing to the polarisation of society, he said.
The party still remains number two in polls, well ahead of all three parties in Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition.
HOW HAVE MAINSTREAM POLITICIANS REACTED?
Politicians from mainstream parties from across the political spectrum have welcomed the protests. Chancellor Scholz said in his weekly videocast it was clear Nazi race ideology could never again have any space in Germany.
Scholz, his foreign minister Annalena Baerbock and other senior politicians have attended protests.
The leader of the opposition Christian Democrats, Friedrich Merz, meanwhile has also softened his rhetoric on migrants, in an apparent attempt to distance himself from the AfD. REUTERS
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HELSINKI - Maintaining friendly relations with Russia used to be an important task for Finnish presidents, but Sunday's election of a new leader will mark an unprecedented hardening of their approach towards the old neighbour.
For the first time since World War Two, Finland's presidential hopefuls are competing to present the toughest stance against Russia during their campaigns, aiming to please voters who perceive Russia's behaviour towards its neighbours as hostile and aggressive, political analysts said.
Finns were angered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and are worried about a surge in migrants arriving in Finland via Russia, which led the Nordic country to close its entire 1,340-km (830-mile) border with Russia to passenger traffic.
"If previously the aim was to compete over who had the best relations with Russia and who was best able to negotiate and interpret Russian politics, now the competition has shifted more towards who has the toughest stance in relation to Russia and perhaps also in defence policy," University of Helsinki political scientist Johanna Vuorelma told Reuters.
Finland's president leads on foreign and security policy in close cooperation with the government and represents the country at NATO meetings, while also acting as a Commander-in-Chief of the Finnish Defence Forces.
The Nordic country was admitted to the Western defence alliance last year, ending seven decades of military non-alignment and drawing threats from Moscow of "counter measures".
The new president will replace retiring Sauli Niinisto, nicknamed the "Putin Whisperer" for his previous close connections with the Russian leader.
BORDER CONCERNS
The frontrunner in polls, centre-right Alexander Stubb of National Coalition said the next president will not only be the first Finnish NATO president, but also "a Western president in many ways".
"The way in which I see it is that the leaning is very much towards the West," Stubb said in a Jan. 12 interview with Reuters.
Nationalist candidate Jussi Halla-aho of the Finns Party, who is third in polls and rising, has adopted the toughest stance towards Russia as he tries to catch up with Stubb and liberal candidate Pekka Haavisto.
Halla-aho, an EU critic and an anti-immigration hardliner, has publicly called Russia "a rogue state" and wants to revoke Finnish citizenship from dual Russian-Finnish nationals.
Pro-European former prime minister Stubb joined Halla-aho and two other right-wing candidates in supporting the idea of revoking dual citizenships in a recent election debate.
Halla-aho has also called for harsh measures in responding to what Helsinki calls the funnelling of migrants to Finland's border by Moscow in retaliation for Finland's NATO membership and its increased defence cooperation with the US.
The Kremlin has rejected the accusations but Finland fears Russia will start ushering migrants through the vast forests that cover most part of the huge border the countries share, similar to what has happened on the Polish-Belarussian border.
"We must be prepared to enforce pushback at the border, that is, to refuse to accept asylum applications from people who most likely are not in acute need of international protection," Halla-aho said on Tuesday during a TV debate, in a loose reference to the Polish border guards' practice of pushing migrants back across the border to Belarus.
Poll leaders Stubb and Haavisto did not mention pushbacks but expressed support for protecting the border by forcible means if necessary.
The president's role in leading Finland's participation in NATO is uncharted territory which the election winner will shape and define, Helsinki University Professor of Political History Juhana Aunesluoma said.
"There are genuine concerns about what is the so-called parliamentary cover for Finland's NATO policy. That is, to what extent the Parliament will be able to oversee Finland's NATO policy," he said. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:21:28Z
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ATHENS - Greece's Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis on Thursday repeated calls for the return of the Parthenon Sculptures to Athens from the British Museum, months after a diplomatic spat with Britain over the 2,500-year-old pieces.
In his first public statement on the issue since November, Mitsotakis said his government has been in talks with the Chair of the British Museum about a deal to bring them back to the Acropolis Museum in the heart of the Greek capital.
"Let me be clear, we will insist on their reunification for many reasons. But one, in my mind, is the most important: Only by being seen together, in situ, in the shadow of the Acropolis, can we truly appreciate their immense cultural importance."
Athens has repeatedly called on the British Museum to permanently return the 2,500-year-old sculptures - known in Britain as the Elgin Marbles - that British diplomat Lord Elgin removed from the Parthenon temple in 1806, during a period when Greece was under Ottoman Turkish rule.
About half of the 160-metre frieze that adorned the Parthenon in Athens is in the British Museum, while 50 metres of the carvings are in the Acropolis Museum.
In November, during an interview with the BBC in London, Mitsotakis compared the separation of the sculptures to cutting the Mona Lisa in half, a characterisation rejected by the British government.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak later cancelled a planned meeting with Mitsotakis accusing him of breaking a promise not to use his trip as an opportunity to advocate for the return of the sculptures.
Greece has said it would be willing to loan antiquities to the British Museum in return for being able to temporarily exhibit the sculptures in Athens.
The British Museum has said it would consider loaning the sculptures to Greece if it acknowledged the British Museum's ownership of the sculptures.
Separately, the British Museum and London's Victoria and Albert Museum announced on Thursday that under a long-term loan deal they would send gold and silver artefacts looted by British soldiers from the Asante royal court in West Africa during the 19th Century back to Ghana for display. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:21:38Z
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ROME - Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is set to introduce a new welfare subsidy for the low-income elderly, according to a draft decree seen by Reuters on Thursday, as part of a broader plan worth more than 1 billion euros ($1.09 billion) over two years.
Ageing population and low birth rates are a major worry for the euro zone's third-largest economy, leading to falling productivity and higher welfare costs in a country where more than a third of residents are expected to be over 65 by 2050.
The government was set to present the package at the end of a cabinet meeting later on Thursday.
Among several measures, the scheme envisages a so-called monthly "universal benefit" of 1,000 euros to support poor people over 80 with "very severe welfare needs," the draft said.
The benefit will be paid starting from Jan. 1 2025, and will remain in place until Dec. 31 2026, the document added.
With a median age of 48, Italy is the EU's oldest country, and also has the highest old-age dependency, defined as the ratio of people aged 65 and over to those of working age, according to statistics agency Eurostat.
Pensions already eat up more than 15% of gross domestic product (GDP), and the Treasury expects spending to reach 17% of output in 2042.
This makes it harder for Rome to reduce its public debt, which at around 140% of GDP already is the second highest in the EU and drains resources from other areas such as education and childcare.
In its 2024 budget, the government earmarked around 1 billion euros for several measures aimed at addressing Italy's demographic crisis. One temporarily removes social contributions paid by working mothers with at least two children. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:21:49Z
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MOSCOW/KYIV - A senior Russian lawmaker said Ukrainian military intelligence had been given a 15-minute warning before a Russian military transport plane carrying Ukrainian prisoners of war entered an area where it was shot down on Wednesday.
Russia accuses Ukraine of downing the plane, killing all 74 people on board, including 65 captured Ukrainian soldiers en route to be swapped for Russian POWs. Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied Russia's assertion, but has demanded an international investigation.
"The Ukrainian side was officially warned, and 15 minutes before the plane entered the zone they were given complete information, which they received and the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Armed Forces confirmed receipt of," Andrei Kartapolov told fellow lawmakers, according to the ruling United Russia party.
"We all know very well what happened next," added Kartapolov, a former general with close links to the defence ministry who now heads Russia's parliamentary defence committee.
His assertion directly contradicted a statement by Ukrainian military intelligence that Russia had not informed it about the flight arrangements.
Conflicting narratives from both sides are a daily feature of a war now nearing the end of its second year. But the stakes are especially high in relation to Wednesday's incident, the deadliest of its kind to take place on Russia's own internationally recognised territory.
Moscow has framed the downing of the Ilyushin-76 military transport plane in Russia's southwestern Belgorod region, near the border with Ukraine, as a Ukrainian "terrorist act".
INVESTIGATION
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Wednesday that greater clarity was needed about what happened, particularly when it came to who was on board, and he accused Russia of "playing with the lives of Ukrainian prisoners".
He called for an international investigation, an appeal echoed on Thursday by Ukraine's ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets.
"Regarding an international investigation, I believe that we will do our part to make it happen. But I am convinced that... the Russians will make loud statements but will not allow anyone in. They will not hand over any materials for analysis and will simply blame Ukraine," Lubinets told national television.
Russia has sole access to the site of the crash, where TV pictures showed debris scattered over snowy fields. Its state news agency TASS said the plane's black boxes had been recovered and would be flown to Moscow for examination at a defence ministry laboratory.
Ukraine's GUR military intelligence agency confirmed on Wednesday that a PoW swap had been due to take place, but said it had not been told how Russia would bring the prisoners to the handover point.
It also said Ukraine had not been asked to ensure airspace security around Belgorod - unlike the arrangements for previous swaps.
The United Nations Security Council was due to convene at 2200 GMT on Thursday in response to a Russian call for a meeting to establish "the reasons behind the Ukrainian criminal act". REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:21:59Z
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ST PETERSBURG, Russia - A young Russian woman was jailed for 27 years on Thursday for delivering a bomb that exploded in the hands of a pro-war military blogger last year and killed him on the spot.
Darya Trepova, 26, was convicted by a St Petersburg court of charges, including terrorism, in connection with the death of blogger Vladlen Tatarsky.
Tatarsky was killed by a bomb concealed inside a statuette in his likeness that Trepova had presented to him as a gift during a talk he was giving in a St Petersburg cafe.
Trepova said she had been set up, and had thought the statuette contained a listening device, not a bomb. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:22:10Z
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Slovakia's parliament will fast-track debate on government plans to scrap a special prosecutor's office fighting corruption and lower sentences for financial crimes after ruling lawmakers approved the move on Thursday despite objections.
Opposition parties had delayed the vote on whether to fast-track the criminal law reforms for weeks, looking to slow Prime Minister Robert Fico's changes that they argue will afford impunity for politicians and business leaders linked to him.
Pushing the reforms on a faster track has also raised warnings from the European Union and United States.
Opposition parties have led near weekly protests drawing tens of thousands, with another string of rallies planned for Thursday evening.
The leftist government led by four-time Prime Minister Fico says the changes are necessary to end what it calls excesses at the Special Prosecution Office (USP) which he has accused of bias against his party.
Fico has also argued that sentences are too harsh compared with many European countries.
Putting the bills in a fast-track procedure shortens the time between debates and the time legislation sits in committees for debate, making it possible to have a vote within days.
President Zuzana Caputova has said speeding through such changes is unprecedented.
The European Commission and the United States have also raised objections to hasty reforms, worried about their impact on the rule of law - an issue that has pitted central European neighbours Hungary and Poland against Brussels in recent years.
Slovakia's special prosecutor's office, around for two decades, has been in Fico's sights since he won a September election and returned to power. Fico had resigned in 2018 amid mass street protests that followed the murder of a journalist investigating public corruption.
The USP opened a number of cases against business leaders, members of the judiciary and police following a 2020 election victory by parties promising to fight graft. While in opposition, Fico himself faced police charges, later dropped.
The proposed reforms would allow suspended sentences for many more financial crimes, and shorten the statute of limitations, which Caputova said would exonerate many suspects of crimes under investigation or on trial now. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:22:20Z
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STOCKHOLM - Sweden's Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has offered to meet his Hungarian counterpart Viktor Orban in Brussels next week to discuss the Swedish NATO application and other bilateral issues, the government said on Thursday.
In a letter to Orban, Kristersson said he would also accept an invitation received earlier this week to meet in Budapest "at a time convenient for both of us".
"I agree with you that a more intensive dialogue between our countries would be beneficial," Kristersson said in the letter.
Sweden applied to join NATO in 2022 after Russia's invasion of Ukraine, but its application has been held up by Turkey and Hungary.
On Tuesday, Turkey's parliament gave the green light to Sweden's application and President Tayyip Erdogan is expected to add his signature in the coming days.
That will leave Hungary as the only NATO member not to have ratified Sweden's membership.
On Tuesday, Orban invited Kristersson to Budapest to negotiate his country joining the bloc. Hungary's parliament is in recess until around mid-February.
Hungary's parliamentary speaker said on Thursday there was no urgency in approving Sweden's NATO membership bid.
Turkey and Hungary maintain better relations with Russia than other members of the U.S.-led North Atlantic Treaty Organization. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:22:31Z
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Kyiv reiterated it received neither a written nor verbal request from Russia to secure airspace around the area of Belgorod where a Russian military transport plane crashed, Ukrainian military intelligence spokesperson Andriy Yusov told Radio Svoboda.
Russia said the Ilyushin Il-76 military plane was carrying 65 captured Ukrainian soldiers. Yusov said Kyiv does not have enough evidence to believe that.
Yusov added that two other Russian military transport planes An-26 and An-72 were simultaneously in the airspace.
"Unfortunately, we can assume various scenarios, including provocation, as well as the use of Ukrainian prisoners as a human shield for transporting ammunition and weapons," he said.
Yusov reiterated that Belgorod airfield was actively used by Russia for military supplies.
During the last prisoner exchange, when air transport was used, Russia asked Ukraine to secure air space, he added.
"This time, the aggressor state did not make such requests either in written or verbal form," he said. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:22:42Z
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HATSAV, Israel - Rather than stretch out under the Caribbean sun, Mark Landsman has been spending his vacation picking tomatoes in Israel, unpaid and in striking range of Palestinian rockets.
The New Jersey man, among thousands of foreigners who have come to southern Israeli farms emptied of labourers by more than three months of war in the Gaza Strip, sees volunteering as an act of solidarity at a crucial time.
"People are saying, 'Where are you going for vacation? I'm sure you're going to go to Florida, maybe the Bahamas, maybe on a cruise.' And I said, 'No, I'm going to Israel,'" he told Reuters while pacing along the trellises in Hatsav, a farming community 36 km (22 miles) from the Palestinian enclave.
"Why would you want to go to a warfront? ... I just feel like I want to be part of this and help out and just do my part."
Farmers and their mostly Thai and Nepalese labourers were among the victims of the Oct. 7 killing and kidnapping rampage by Hamas-led Palestinian gunmen from Gaza that triggered the war. Overnight, stretches of cultivated Israeli desert abundant in produce were abandoned, their harvests looking likely to rot.
Civil society groups within Israel mobilised online, with one app directing people with free time to farms based on location and preferred type of activity. Shuttered universities offered students financial aid in return for agricultural work.
Such initiatives soon resonated abroad, where the Gaza war has polarised an already intense debate over the fates of Israelis and Palestinians after decades of intractable feuding.
ISRAELI FARMERS NEED HELP
About 1,200 people were killed and around 240 hostages were seized on Oct. 7, Israel says. Palestinian health officials say at least 25,700 people have been killed in Gaza in Israel's retaliatory military campaign to wipe out Hamas.
According to the U.S. office of the non-profit Jewish National Fund (JNF), Israel has drawn more than 145,000 foreign volunteers during the war.
"The farmers could not survive without the help of the volunteers. The volunteers are there filling the gap," said the JNF's Gil Macklaine. "Without them, the many farmers would collapse."
Israel's Agriculture Ministry has said that there is a shortfall of some 30,000 workers and was trying to bring in people from Sri Lanka, India and Vietnam to help.
According to the latest parliamentary data from 2021, 73,500 people worked in the agriculture sector - 44% Israeli, 33% foreigners, mostly Thai, and 23% Palestinian.
Farmers interviewed by Reuters have privately described the volunteers as useful for simple jobs such as crop-picking, but not for operating machines. Many volunteers come for a day or two, meaning that they are unlikely to build skills, but their high turnover means more hands soon come along, the farmers say.
Volunteers can opt for the Gaza periphery or farms in the north, which have been similarly hobbled by rocket attacks from Lebanon. They are shown the nearest bomb shelter or instructed to lie down in the dirt and cover their heads if sirens sound.
"We chose to come to Israel to help because it's hard to sit at home in Los Angeles and watch what's happening and not want to do something," said Lisa Liner, of Los Angeles, as she boxed tomatoes in Hatsav.
"This was something we could do - to come and help whoever needed help, and it's mostly farmers. So we are doing whatever we're asked to do." REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:22:52Z
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Lawyers were to make opening statements on Thursday in the trial of a Michigan woman whose teenage son used a gun she and her husband allegedly gave him as a Christmas present to kill four schoolmates.
Twelve jurors and five alternates were empanelled in Pontiac, Michigan, Wednesday afternoon, the court said, to hear a rare trial of a parent facing criminal charges in a school shooting.
Jennifer Crumbley, 45, and her 47-year-old husband James Crumbley, who will be tried separately next month, are each charged with four counts of manslaughter.
Their son, Ethan, who was 15 at the time of the 2021 shooting at Oxford High School near Detroit, pleaded guilty in 2022 to two dozen counts, including four of first-degree murder, and last month was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
In the past, Jennifer Crumbley's attorneys have said she could not have anticipated her son would carry out a school shooting, and that the weapon had been safely secured in the home.
She has asked Sixth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Cheryl Matthews to force her son to testify, according to documents filed this week with the Pontiac, Michigan, court by her attorney Shannon Smith.
Public defenders representing Ethan Crumbley as he appeals his life sentence are fighting any order that would compel him to testify, and say they will advise him to invoke his right to remain silent if he is called.
Gun safety experts have said they hope the Crumbley trials serve as a wake-up call for parents around the country to better secure weapons in their homes. About 75% of school shooters obtained the guns they used in attacks within their own homes, government research has shown.
Experts have said the parents' trials break new legal ground.
Prosecutors say James Crumbley purchased the 9mm handgun used in the Oxford High attack four days before his son carried it out on Nov. 30, 2021.
On the morning of the shooting, a teacher discovered drawings by Ethan Crumbley that depicted a handgun, a bullet, and a bleeding figure next to the words "Blood everywhere," "My life is useless," and "The thoughts won't stop - help me."
The Crumbleys were called to the school on the morning of the shooting, and told that Ethan urgently needed counseling and they needed to take him home, prosecutors have said. The parents resisted the idea of taking their son home and did not search his backpack nor ask him about the gun.
Ethan Crumbley was returned to class and later walked out of a bathroom with the gun and began firing, prosecutors say. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:23:03Z
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MOSCOW -Prominent Russian nationalist Igor Girkin was convicted by a Moscow court on Thursday of inciting extremism and sentenced to four years in a penal colony.
Girkin, who denied the charge, has accused President Vladimir Putin and the army top brass of not pursuing the Ukraine war effectively enough and had also publicly entertained ideas about running against Putin in an upcoming presidential election.
His case has been closely watched as an indication of how far the Kremlin will tolerate aggressive criticism of its war effort in Ukraine, something it calls a "special military operation".
Girkin was remanded in custody in July last year after setting up the "Club of Angry Patriots" to save Russia from what he said was the danger of systemic turmoil due to military failures in Ukraine and jostling in the elite to eventually succeed Putin.
In one of his most outspoken tirades, in a post on July 18 on his official Telegram channel, followed by more than 760,000 people, Girkin peppered Putin with personal insults and urged him to pass power "to someone truly capable and responsible".
A former officer for Russia's FSB security service and battlefield commander also known as Igor Strelkov, Girkin helped Russia to annex Crimea in 2014 and, soon after, to organise pro-Russian militias who wrested part of eastern Ukraine out of Kyiv's control - events that started Russia's war on Ukraine.
He was handed a life sentence in absentia by a Dutch court in 2022 for his alleged role in the shooting down of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over eastern Ukraine in 2014, with the loss of 298 passengers and crew. He denied wrongdoing at the time. REUTERS
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Donald Trump is calling friends, allies and donors to seek advice on who he should pick as a vice presidential running mate as he closes in on the Republican White House nomination, according to five close allies of the former president.
Trump has yet to make a final decision, the allies said, but it is a clear sign that he is already planning for a likely general election rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden in November.
"Every day, everywhere he goes, it's, 'What do you think of this person. What do you think of that person?'" one close ally said, describing the nature of Trump's phone calls.
The allies, two of whom have direct knowledge of the inner workings of Trump's campaign, spoke on the condition of anonymity to more freely discuss the issue.
In response to his queries, Trump is receiving an array of names, but many of them are either women or African American, which speaks to a broad agreement that Trump needs to improve his standing among both demographics to help him win back the White House.
That list includes South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem, South Carolina U.S. Senator Tim Scott, New York congresswoman Elise Stefanik, Trump's former White House secretary and current Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and Ben Carson, Trump's former Housing and Urban Development secretary.
Trump declared at a Fox News town hall in Iowa on Jan. 10 that "I know who it's going to be," when asked about a running mate, but allies say his calls for advice on a choice have continued since then.
A former Trump White House official who is still in touch with the former president said Trump has expressed a preference to choose a woman as he believes that would help his prospects, with Stefanik and Noem high on his list.
A fifth ally said Trump has already compiled a short list.
The Trump campaign did not respond to questions about who Trump is considering to be his running mate.
OPPOSITION TO HALEY
There also appears to be broad resistance to picking Nikki Haley, Trump's former U.N. ambassador and last surviving nomination rival, a donor close to Trump said.
Opposition to Haley among some of Trump's allies and within Trump's campaign have intensified in recent days as she has increased attacks on his age - he is 77 - and mental acuity.
Haley ruled out being Trump's running mate on Jan. 19, saying being anybody's vice president was "off the table." Trump said on Jan. 19 he would "probably" not pick her as a running mate.
When he first ran for president in 2016, Trump realized he needed a vice presidential pick who could help shore up support among Republican evangelicals and social conservatives, who were suspicious of the thrice-married reality TV star.
Trump picked Mike Pence, the then Indiana governor and fierce social conservative, a move that allayed fears about Trump on the right-wing of the party and solidified his Republican base.
This year, Trump's allies and Republican strategists say Trump needs help attracting suburban swing voters in a handful of battleground states, where November's election will likely be decided.
With an eye to that general election map, the donor said, "A woman on the ticket could be very helpful. An African-American on the ticket could be very helpful."
ON THE TRAIL FOR TRUMP
Noem, Stefanik, Scott and Carson have worked hard stumping for Trump on the campaign trail in Iowa and New Hampshire, the first two states to vote in the Republican primary. Party insiders and strategists see their appearances as auditions for the vice-presidential pick.
Stefanik has become a fiercely loyal Trump surrogate and is a rising star in the Republican Party.
She gained national prominence in December after embarrassing the heads of three top universities about antisemitism on their campuses during a congressional hearing, which prompted two of them to later resign.
Stefanik spoke at a New Hampshire rally on Friday, stopped by a diner on Saturday and later at the Trump campaign headquarters in Manchester.
As she made her way through the crowd to a bank of TV cameras, Stefanik was asked by Reuters if she had discussed with Trump or his aides the vice president role. She declined to comment on that, but added: "I'd be honored to serve in a future Trump administration in any way."
The question prompted a "VP, VP, VP," chant among Trump supporters in attendance.
On Sunday, at another New Hampshire rally, Trump praised Stefanik - but mispronounced her name.
Alex Degrasse, a spokesperson for Stefanik, said the congresswoman "does not discuss her conversations with President Trump."
Noem, serving her second term as South Dakota's governor after a landslide reelection victory in 2022, is close to Trump. She rose to national prominence after refusing to impose a statewide mask mandate during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Noem campaigned for and with Trump at several events in Iowa earlier this month, including three stops across the state on Jan. 3.
Before her final speech that day she was asked by CBS News about being Trump's running mate. "I think anybody in this country, if they were offered it, needs to consider it," she replied.
Noem's office referred Reuters to the CBS interview.
Scott, who is African American, was a onetime Republican rival to Trump, but dropped out of the race in November, and endorsed Trump on Jan. 19. Both Scott and Carson, who is also Black, have been on the campaign trail supporting Trump.
In Concord, New Hampshire on Jan. 19, Scott told a crowd that Trump would lower taxes and unite the country.
Andrew Hughes, a spokesman for Carson, said of Trump's potential pick as a running mate, "That is President Trump's decision and he will make it when he's ready."
A spokesman for Scott declined to comment.
LOYALTY TOP PRIORITY FOR TRUMP
Trump is looking for loyalty and deference in a running mate, the close Trump ally said.
"Remember whose name is on the side of the plane," the ally said.
Sanders is seen as fiercely loyal to Trump and frequently defends his record from the governor's mansion in Arkansas. Asked about being Trump's running mate by CBS News on Jan. 21, she said: "I absolutely love the job I have."
Other names popular with Trump's diehard supporters, judging by enthusiastic reactions to their appearances for Trump in New Hampshire in recent days, are Kari Lake, who narrowly lost a gubernatorial bid in Arizona in 2022 and is now running for the U.S. Senate there, and Georgia congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene.
Both are fiercely loyal to Trump and echo his false claim that he won the 2020 election against Biden. But allies view them as too polarizing for a presidential ticket.
Whit Ayres, a Republican pollster, says Trump is such a huge and polarizing figure himself, it may not matter who he picks.
"It's all about the top of the ticket, especially when the top of the ticket is so dominant a personality as Donald Trump, should he win the nomination," Ayres said. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-25T13:23:23Z
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From snoring to high temperatures and duvet hogging, there are a multitude of reasons why sharing a bed with your partner can be less than ideal.
So it comes as no surprise that some celebrity couples have taken their sleep quality into their own hands and chosen to doze off separately. See why David and Victoria Beckham, Donald and Melania Trump, and more have what is widely considered to be unconventional sleeping arrangements…
Why do couples sleep separately?
Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms.co.uk assured that sleeping separately is not necessarily a reflection of your intimacy. "Some assume that sleeping in separate beds means there is a problem in the relationship - but this is not the case," he said. "Sleeping separately helps improve quality of sleep, can make you feel more energised and inevitably prevent any arguments with couples blaming one another for a poor night’s rest."
Jessica Alderson, relationship expert and co-founder of the So Synchd dating app, agreed, stating it is "one of the biggest relationship myths." She continued: "Sleeping in separate beds as a couple can be a liberating experience and allows each person to have their own space.
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"When couples have separate beds, they can make their own choices regarding sleeping habits, such as preferences around temperature, bedding, and sleeping routines. It can lead to much better sleep quality for both people, which can positively impact all areas of their lives, including the quality of their relationship together."
Sleep experts at Loughborough University also found women need 20 minutes more sleep than men due to their 'complex' brains, so perhaps separate beds make more sense for those looking to have undisturbed sleep!
See who's leading the charge with their sleeping habits…
Donald and Melania Trump
During their time living in The White House, former US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania Trump reportedly slept apart. With 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and six levels, the famous US landmark allowed the couple to have their own space. In her book Free, Melania, Kate Bennett said that Trump slept in the White House master suite, while Melania had a two-room suite on the third floor.
Michael Wolff's book, Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White claimed Trump found the property a "little scary", adding: "He retreated to his own bedroom - the first time since the Kennedy White House that a presidential couple had maintained separate rooms."
Meanwhile, biographer Mary Jordan said their independent bedrooms made perfect sense. "I don’t know any couple that spends as much time apart. It’s easy to say that the Trumps have an odd relationship from the outside, but separate sleeping isn’t strange at all – it makes sense for two of the busiest people on the planet."
Cameron Diaz and Benji Madden
Cameron Diaz said she wants to normalise couples sleeping apart during an appearance on the Lipstick on the Rim podcast in December 2023.
The Holiday actress, who married Good Charlotte guitarist Benji Madden in 2015, said: "To me, I would literally, I have my house, you have yours. We have the family house in the middle. I will go and sleep in my room. You go sleep in your room. I’m fine.
"And we have the bedroom in the middle that we can convene in for our relations."
Will and Jada Pinkett-Smith
Jada Pinkett Smith dropped several bombshells about her marriage with Will Smith in her memoir 'Worthy'. The couple, who secretly separated in 2016, reportedly had a creative solution to keeping the spark alive after their children Jaden and Willow began sleeping in their bed "nightly for some years".
She explained: "To give us our own space, I had even built a separate, beautiful love nest for us two grown-ups in our bedroom, complete with a domed ceiling full of twinkling stars." However, the private space was short-lived, as she added wasn't long before "the kids hijacked that room as well". It's not clear if they ever chose to spend the night in separate beds – one with the kids and the other in the "love nest."
They did, however, confirm that they had been living "completely separate" lives following their separation, but they have no plans to divorce. After moving out of their Calabasas mansion and into a house nearby, Jada told You in 2023: "The best thing is I don’t need to say to Will, 'Are you OK with this couch?'. I got one that’s cream patent leather but with gold studs on it. That expresses the heavy-metal side to me."
Victoria and David Beckham
Not only do Victoria and David Beckham have their own beds, but they also reportedly have their own "his" and "hers" wings at their Cotswolds home!
After David and Victoria moved into the Soho Farmhouse-inspired country bolthole, the MailOnline reported that they submitted planning permission requesting "two distinct living quarters - of equal size - each with their own kitchen, bedrooms and a courtyard."
Although the couple have never addressed reports that they sleep apart, it wouldn't be the first time that they have installed separate living quarters. In their primary London home, a £31 million Grade-II Listed Holland Park townhouse, there was a separate wing where Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz stayed when they were dating.
Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk
Gwyneth Paltrow and Brad Falchuk's decision to hit the hay in different locations was driven by advice from their intimacy coach Michaela Boehm.
"Oh, all my married friends say that the way we live sounds ideal and we shouldn’t change a thing," she told The Sunday Times of their separate homes before they moved in together.
Kourtney Kardashian and Scott Disick
Before marrying Travis Barker, Kourtney Kardashian lived with her ex Scott Disick, but they didn't share a bed for long. On her website Poosh, The Kardashians star revealed they chose separate beds as their children Mason and Penelope slept best when they were in their parent's bed, which led to poor sleep for Scott.
"With two kids in my bed, Scott had begun sleeping in the guest room," she wrote. Scott later explained on X, formerly Twitter: "Just want to clear up the reason why we don't sleep in bed together. I'm not a good sleeper, and with Mason in bed I can't fall to sleep!"
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512037/celebrity-couples-unusual-sleeping-arrangements-victoria-david-beckham-cameron-diaz-benji-madden/
| 2024-01-25T13:56:49Z
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Lily James sparked a huge response from her following when she shared a gorgeous photo of herself rocking a swimsuit on the beach.
The Iron Claw actress is enjoying sunnier climes for her first on-location job of 2024 – and fortunately for Lily, it didn't look too challenging.
Taking to Instagram, the 34-year-old shared two black-and-white photos which saw her strolling along a sandy beach while wearing a bathing suit by celebrity-loved brand, Hunza G.
The first image captured Lily from side-on, with her turning her head slightly to give a sweet smile to the camera.
Her exposed back could be seen in the brand's classic swimsuit, which boasts a scoop back and high-cut leg which no doubt made Lily's look never-ending.
The second photo was of Lily from behind and her smooth skin was on full display as she looked out on her picturesque surroundings.
The Cinderella star appeared to be makeup-free and wore her hair pulled up into a messy bun on top of her head, accessorizing with a pair of small, hooped earrings.
Captioning the gorgeous photos, she simply penned: "First job on location 2024 Captured By @halleybrisker."
Her fans were quick to react with many blown away by her natural beauty, leaving comments like "Beautiful", "So stunning", and "Gorgeous photos".
Lily's appearances often cause a stir thanks to her effortless style – but none have sparked quite the reaction as her transformation into Pamela Anderson for Hulu's Pam & Tommy series in 2022.
For her role, the British-born actress turned to personal trainer Matt Bevan to help her emulate Pamela's unforgettable physique in her iconic red Baywatch swimsuit, and as you can see in the video below, Lily looked just as incredible.
"With Lily playing such an icon, there was always going to be a huge pressure to look as much like Pamela as possible," Matt previously told British Vogue.
"But what I always feel is equally important is getting my clients to a place where they can perform their absolute best – that meant embodying Anderson's inner confidence and strength, as well as getting Lily as aesthetically close to accurately portraying her as possible."
The duo worked together for four months to achieve the goal, but because of lockdown restrictions at the time, they were forced to train virtually.
"We had to get creative and made use of light dumbbells, resistance bands, sliding discs, and towels,” he said. "Then we adjusted variables, such as the tempo of each exercise, stability, and range of motion.
"After that, we moved into full body strength, circuit-based workouts, increasing her strength and aerobic conditioning."
It wasn't just the four or five weekly sessions that altered Lily's physique – she had to make changes to her diet too.
"I worked out her calorific needs and then sent her a couple of weeks of sample menus with some recipes in, and Lily took ownership," Matt explained.
"We stuck to three meals a day and a couple of snacks. I don't like anyone to be limiting what they love, so she was allowed to have a treat or two weekly."
Lily was so impressed with her transformation; she told Matt that she went from "zero to hero" when it comes to exercise.
He added: "It can be difficult to change physically without real commitment – particularly with a goal like Pamela Anderson! But we trained consistently, and that’s exactly what we did."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512036/lily-james-wows-swimsuit-gorgeous-beach-photos/
| 2024-01-25T13:56:55Z
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Nicole Kidman looked almost unrecognizable as she posed with a snake in risqué lingerie for one of her most daring photoshoots yet.
The 56-year-old graces the cover of Vogue Australia's February issue and she proved she is a fan of the reptile as she let one wrap around her neck while she held it against her cleavage for the bold cover image.
Photographed by renowned photographer Steven Klein, Nicole looked incredible wearing a red latex dress that boasted a plunging black lace neckline as she suggestively placed one perfectly manicured hand against her chest.
In another image, Nicole stands side-on while wearing a knee-length, nude-colored latex skirt with a black strapless latex bra.
Her statuesque frame is evident with her long legs taking center stage in a pair of metallic heels, while she poses with her hands on her hips.
Her blonde hair has been styled in voluminous waves and gives off serious bed-head vibes but in a chic way, only Nicole can do.
Keeping with the grunge aesthetic, the Big Little Lies star rocks heavy black eye makeup with a nude lip against her porcelain skin.
Her followers were left in awe over the photos, with one responding: "I just don't understand how you keep getting better!"
A second said: "She's an icon, she's a legend, and she is the moment." A third added: "Brave, bold, and provocative."
The magazine also shared a behind-the-scenes video from Nicole's shoot, which you can see below, and she modeled a variety of stunning looks – all of which included the black snake wrapped around some part of her body.
One, in particular, saw Nicole wearing a lace bralette that barely contained her with a long black skirt that featured a clear, structured panel across her hips. While the snake started around her neck, it eventually made its way down to wrap around her tiny waist.
While working with a live snake might make some people queasy, the Expats star wasn't fazed at all – in fact, the snake was her idea.
"I think they're very beautiful," she told the publication, admitting she has never done a photoshoot with one before.
Speaking about her love for the reptiles, Nicole revealed she finds them "alluring" and is fascinated by the way "they slither and move" and shed their skin. “You can become and try different things, all the time, which is what excites me,” she explained.
During the accompanying interview, Nicole was asked if she feels like she is "reinventing herself", even though she has enjoyed a successful career spanning four decades.
"I don't even see it as reinvention," she said. "I think it's more like different facets that you discover that are in existence, but you are attuned to the discovery of them.
"Yes, I remain very open and still very passionate about what I do, and curious. And those elements haven't been dampened."
She added: "You can either become more rigid as you become older, but you can also become more free."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512049/nicole-kidman-wows-latex-lingerie-posing-with-snake-best-photos/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:09Z
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Duchess Sophie stepped out for a royal outing to champion menstrual health issues and was turned out immaculately. The royal, 59, arrived at a workshop around menstrual health issues put on by the Wellbeing of Women charity, showing off her ability to rock a power suit as elegantly as Princess Kate.
The Duchess wore a pair of belted wide-leg trousers by Emilia Wickstead that created a leg-lengthening silhouette. She paired the garment with an open-neck silk shirt in a sky blue hue by Vince that added a touch of glamour to her understated look.
The finishing touch was the ’Cleo’ clutch bag in black by her go-to designer Sophie Habsburg that can take any look from casual to smart.
The royal popped on a pair of ‘Manzoni 85’ Black Suede Ankle Boots by Aquazurra to further lengthen the silhouette and tied the trousers into the look with a coordinating slim-fit single-breasted blazer by Helmut Lang.
Her hair was worn in a soft updo with plenty of volume at the root and her makeup was characteristically natural with definition on the eyes thanks to lashings of mascara. A pair of dainty drop earrings were an understated touch.
The mother-of-two added an extra special accessory. As she arrived at the workshop Sophie was seen with a beige and grey striped scarf around her neck – the charcoal and beige merino wool scarves from Highgrove Garden and Johnstons of Elgin in collaboration with The Prince's Foundation which was conceived by her brother-in-law King Charles.
Princess Anne and her husband Sir Timothy Laurence wore the same special gift from her brother King Charles during a matching moment at the annual Christmas Day church service at Sandringham.
Sophie joined the myth-busting workshop at Harris Girls Academy in East Dulwich on Wednesday as a patron of the Wellbeing of Women charity. The royal is an advocate for normalising the conversation around periods and said that period products should be on display at home rather than locked in a cupboard, adding: "Let’s get them out of the closet."
The royal also praised three boys for sitting in on the workshop, telling them that they were "very brave" for agreeing to talk about periods and adding: "I think bringing boys into the conversation is very important. I’ve been to many countries around the world and other countries seem to be more progressive."
Dame Lesley, the government’s ambassador for the Women's Health Strategy and chair of Wellbeing of Women said: "The Duchess was very helpful on our campaign on the menopause two years ago and now with our campaign Just a Period we hope to make it something that everybody talks about – over the dinner table, the breakfast table, in the petrol station, even. The Duchess demonstrated that she is really open, receptive and, of course, she has a daughter, too."
Duchess Sophie was seen in another leg-lengthening power suit moment when she paid a visit to Community Projects at Burwell Hall in Walton-on-Thames last week. The Prince's wife rocked a forest green suit by Victoria Beckham that she styled with a black and white patterned shirt also by the iconic British designer and a white leather belt by Mulberry.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/512034/duchess-sophie-stunning-silhouette-enhancing-silk-look/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:10Z
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Tom Hollander has become a surprise topic of conversation on the internet recently after revealing that he was once accidentally given Tom Holland’s paycheck - and being shocked to see a seven-figure sum. The Pride and Prejudice actor is hugely successful in his own right but joked about how he is regularly mistaken for the Spider-Man star thanks to their very similar names. So forget Tom Holland, here’s everything you need to know about Tom Hollander…
Who is Tom Hollander - and what movies and TV shows is he best known for?
Tom is a British actor - and you are almost guaranteed to have loved one TV show or movie the highly prolific star has done at some time or another! The 56-year-old played Mr Collins in 2005’s Pride and Prejudice, Cutler Beckett in Pirates of the Caribbean, Gary in Bird Box and most recently, as Quentin, Tanya’s new friend who she suspects wants to murder her, in The White Lotus.
He will also star as Truman Capote in the upcoming drama Feud: Capote Vs. The Swans - which looks at the true story behind the famous author’s fallout with the ladies of New York’s high society.
What’s the story behind the paycheck?
Chatting on Late Night with Seth Myers, he explained: “I went to see my friend who was doing theatre in England for 300 pounds a week, you know, but doing great work, Chekhov, and I sat smugly in the audience having just done a BBC show for 30 grand or something which was going to get me through the next year or so.
“I was thinking, 'Well this is marvellous. I'm very prosperous, but my good friend Peter is doing this great play and I'm going to go afterwards and see him and slightly patronise him and say how wonderful it was. I thought I'd check my emails, and I got an email from the agency saying, 'Payment advice slip: Your first box office bonus for The Avengers,’ And I thought, 'I don't think I'm in The Avengers.’
"It was an astonishing amount of money. And it was not his salary, it was his first box office bonus. Not the whole box office, the first one. And it was more money than I've ever — it was a seven-figure sum. He was 20 or something. So my feeling of smugness that you remember I had in the first half disappeared very quickly.”
Is Tom married?
Tom is in a relationship with his long-time girlfriend Fran Hickman. The pair were engaged back in 2010, before splitting and reportedly rekindling their relationship in lockdown. In August 2023, it was confirmed that Tom and Fran had welcomed their first child together, as the actor was spotted going for a stroll with their bundle of joy in a baby carrier.
The Mail of Sunday revealed that Tom was “beyond thrilled” to be a dad. He previously opened up about becoming a parent back in 2011, saying: “I’d love to be a dad, it’s just that I’ve not managed to sort it out… And I do occasionally think, “How have I managed not to settle down when I came from such a settled-down family?”’ The couple have kept the baby’s name and gender private.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512044/tom-hollander-everything-to-know-actor/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:13Z
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As I sat down to write this article - ready to reflect on my early days of motherhood, I braved the utter shambles that is my bedside table and pulled out my old journal.
That lilac scribbled diary serves as a record of the chaotic, wonderful and often painful period after my daughter was born sixteen months ago.
As I scanned my words, those already distant moments that had previously been a blur in my memory instantly came flooding back. I was transported back to scrawling in the dark, running on minimal sleep, love, adrenaline and my newfound love for coffee, and it made me realise how far we’ve come together.
"I don’t know whether I’ll ever understand how it’s possible to feel so much darkness and so much love and joy simultaneously," I wrote in March last year, just six months in.
A joyful start
Having battled on and off with my mental health since a teen, the fear of postpartum depression had lingered for a long time even before I fell pregnant, overshadowing any concerns about the actual pregnancy or birth.
But despite a challenging birth experience, the initial weeks with my daughter were so positive. In contrast to what I feared, I felt an instant connection with that incredible little person and although it was of course daunting, it all felt so natural. I was fortunate enough to be cocooned in support from my husband and those close to me and any thoughts that tried to push their way in were treated as moments, or waves that I was able to ride and push back out.
For those first few weeks, months even, we lived in a sheltered newborn bubble of love and distraction. However, around three months postpartum, something changed. The world started spinning again as it always had, and although Pennie and I had found our own routine, there were fewer distractions.
Loneliness as a new mum
My days became more and more overshadowed by intrusive thoughts - of the birth and eventually new situations I played out in my mind. I struggled to manage daily tasks and started disassociating.
My usual bubbly, extroverted self became a mask I struggled to wear and I found myself recoiling from company, unable to engage in conversation or any sense of being present.
I was permanently around people (as well as never without one certain tiny person) but I’d never felt so lonely. It was as if my light had gone off. But I’d been here before, I’d made it through a bought of depression six or so years before and I knew what to do.
READ: Why you really need to schedule some alone time this month
Seeking help
I decided to seek professional help, reaching out to therapists and opening up to my husband. But unlike before, this time they struggled to get through. I remember feeling like I must be past the point of help. I wondered, 'Maybe I’m too far gone this time or I’m just not cut out for this'.
I felt like a failure and so ashamed. As an online content creator who used to have 'no such thing as TMI' in her bio, I’ve never shied away from subjects that some would see as taboo. I’ve always been open about even the unglamorous parts of physical health and talk candidly about mental health. However, this felt different.
I knew how unbelievably lucky I was to have this tiny baby, and to be bringing her up in a safe, warm home with support around me. I knew others had it way worse, so what was wrong with me? Why couldn’t I just pull myself together and crack on like the millions of women before me?
NEED TO KNOW: Is this the reason we're all so exhausted right now?
Breaking point
That guilted comparison, shame and silence is what floored me. As I left my fourth trimester, I reached breaking point and became convinced that my family would be far better off without me.
One afternoon, desperate for help, I contacted PANDAS perinatal mental health charity. The validating space and listening ear they offered is what led me to a 111 appointment and eventually a diagnosis of PTSD as well as a prescription for medication.
Despite my initial resistance, the medication became a crucial tool, providing a stepping stone to implement additional strategies - even the more simple ones like getting outside.
With each week I was able to respond more and more to therapy, start slowly re-engaging with life, and crucially, talk about what I was going through.
I’d left my online work abruptly to prioritise my health, but as I returned, I tried articulating what I could from the reality of my postpartum struggles in the bid to help rid some of the shame I, and perhaps others, felt.
The response, both online and from those in my personal life, was overwhelming. I was suddenly part of a hidden network of shared experiences and nurturing hugs from those whose stories had also been steeped in silence.
Self-compassion
It helped me realise that what I was still lacking in my recovery was self-compassion. Understanding that what I was experiencing is so common - that it doesn’t make me a terrible parent or person, and it’s why talking and being part of a community is so important.
Despite NHS statistics indicating over 10 per cent of women, along with fathers and partners, struggling with postnatal depression, stigma is still rife even in 2024.
The romanticised, outdated notion that motherhood is the pinnacle of a woman's existence fuels feelings of failure when, for whatever reason, that is not reality. The absence of a traditional 'village' around new parents coupled with the fast pace of modern life, exacerbates the challenges of those early days.
We’re tribal creatures living in isolation. And that glass screen is often the place we seek regulation, education and community - both a blessing and a curse.
One year on
Now, nearly a year since asking for help, I find myself in a starkly different place. While I wish the early days weren’t how I once described as 'robbed from me', they paved the way for the indescribable joy I now feel in even the smallest moments, liberated from the suffocating fog in my mind.
What I learnt in the first year of motherhood
2) Never feel guilty for being a human with real, messy human feelings
3) Healing is not a linear process
4) It's okay to grieve - whether that’s time, moments or your previous life
5) You’ve got this, and even when you haven't, you'll get it back again.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/512038/motherhood-darkness-joy-simultaneously/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:30Z
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Gigi Hadid shares all her glamorous escapades as a model at the top of her game with her 78.6 million Instagram followers but has broken the mold with a rare insight into life with her adorable daughter Khai, three, whom she shares with her ex-boyfriend One Direction singer Zayn Malik.
The Victoria's Secret model, 28, took to Instagram to share a carousel of recent updates from her life which included an unseen photo of little Khai who looks like Rapunzel with long locks like her mother.
Gigi was seen with her own hair in a ponytail peering out of a window around Christmas time in a festive jumper whilst Khai sat with her with her mid-town brown hair that had been crimped in two pigtails.
The three-year-old wore an adorable red padded coat and brown checked skirt to match her mother's festive energy. In another shot, she was seen doing some arts and crafts, sticking jewels and feathers to a piece of paper in pink, white, and grey borg jacket.
In a third rare insight, Gigi shared a snap of little Khai in a sweet snowsuit with a leopard print hat and pink mittens. The model has decided to keep Khai's face out of the limelight, as was the same when she shared an array of adorable photos to celebrate her third birthday last September.
Sharing photos of their life together, the doting mother wrote: "Have been celebrating our THREE YR OLD this week & just so honored to get to be her mama, to get to see life through her !!!! Happy Birthday to my sweetest, smartest, spunkiest bestie !!!!!!!! DREAM KID / love of my life."
The little one's singer dad, whom Gigi split from in October 2021, also honoured the special day with a dedicated Instagram post. He penned: "Happy birthday to my everything, you are the most amazing soul I’ve ever known. Every day I get with you is a blessing that I cherish beyond words. 3 already!! Where has that time gone? my beautiful little girl, I couldn’t live without you, thank you for all the love you bring to my life."
Khai's father has had a fractious relationship with Gigi's mother, former Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid, for almost three years. In October 2021 Yolanda claimed that Zayn "struck her" during an altercation which he denied before he pleaded 'no contest' to four counts of harassment.
Opening up for the first time publicly since the incident to Alex Cooper on her Call Her Daddy podcast the 'Pillowtalk' singer said: "I don’t tend to get involved when people say things online, whether it’s got something to do with me or whether it doesn’t. Because, for me, my most valuable thing that I have in life is time, and that takes so much time in a toxic environment, to explain yourself to people and justify this so I just kind of keep to myself."
"If anybody of a sane mind would look at the situation, I believe you could respect that I just didn’t want to bring attention to anything, you know?" he added. "I wasn’t trying to get into a negative back and forth with [Yolanda]."
DISCOVER: Bradley Cooper's A-list dating history: Renee Zellweger, Gigi Hadid, and more
Zayn was also keen to protect his close bond with his daughter and wanted to limit the impact the situation could have on her later down the line. "Any sort of narrative online where my daughter was going to look back and read that and be able to read into it and it would just be something that was…There was no point," he said, adding that he feels he dealt with it in "an amicable, respectful" manner.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/512045/gigi-hadid-daughter-zayn-malik-rapunzel-rare-photo/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:37Z
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Jennifer Garner picked the most adorable photo to pay tribute to her younger sister, Susannah.
On Wednesday, the Family Switch star, 51, took to her Instagram stories with a snapshot from her childhood.
In the image, Jennifer proved she already had the motherly touch as she held hands with her younger sibling as they played in a swimming pool.
Both girls were clad in their swimsuits and had smiles on their faces as they splashed around. Jennifer captioned the post: "Happy birthday to my friend best friend. I love you, Susie," and she added a heart emoji.
She has a close bond with Susannah and her older sister Melissa and occasionally shared photos with them on social media.
They had a wholesome upbringing in Charleston, West Virginia, and she previously joked that they were raised "practically Amish" because their parents wouldn't allow the sisters to dye their hair, wear makeup or paint their nails when they were teenagers.
In fact, Jennifer previously confessed she called her dad to ask him if she could get her ears pierced... at the age of 48.
"My dad is very strict and very conservative. Garner girls did not have their ears pierced, she told The Hollywood Reporter. "I just got mine pierced during the pandemic for the first time.
"I'm 48. I called my parents and said 'Dad I'm going to pierce my ears.' He said, 'OK Jennifer.' We didn't wear makeup, we didn't have our nails painted. We were very good girls."
The mom-of-three - she shares her children, Samuel, 11, Seraphina, 14, and Violet, 18, with her ex-husband, Ben Affleck - also spoke about her maternal instinct.
"I was one of those little girls who always had baby dolls tucked under the arm," she told the outlet. "My first job I was a babysitter, I had a babysitting company with a friend. It never occurred to me that I was not going to be a mom. I always knew I would."
Jennifer recently opened up about being a mom and how she is raising her children in a rare interview with Dr. Aliza Pressman on her podcast, Raising Good Humans.
During the conversation, Jennifer spoke about a recent task she'd given her kids, and reflected on just how different her daughters are in the temperament.
When Violet and Seraphina were asked to write some of their goals for the upcoming year, they couldn't have been more different. "It was interesting thinking about temperament. Their personal mission statements and value statements were as if they had never met," Jennifer explained.
During the chat, Jennifer also spoke about how her number one hope for all her children was for them to have a sense of humor. "Funny is number one. Please be funny, that's why I had you," she joked. Luckily, it appears she got her wish: "Check, check, check, that's one thing, thank god!" she concluded.
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletterand get them delivered straight to your inbox.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/512047/jennifer-garner-throwback-swimsuit-photo-lookalike-sister-birthday-surprise/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:43Z
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New year, same faces stepping out to attend the chicest parties in London.
This month may bring Paris Couture Week, but we'd argue the glitz, glamour and VIP guest lists are just as spectacular on home turf (well, almost).
MORE: Hello! Fashion Guest List: the most exclusive parties in November & December 2023
Here's what the fashion set has been up to this January 2024, and who was "on the Guest List" at the most fabulous soirées...
H&M x Raye
Raye has become the latest fashion icon to collaborate with high street brand H&M on a new activewear collection for its H&M Move range.
"This January, RAYE will be joining forces with H&M Move to introduce the new-season collection, seamlessly bridging the worlds of sports and fashion through the power of music," the brand explains on its website, "Her partnership with H&M Move perfectly aligns with the brand’s mission, to get the whole world and everybody moving."
In typical pop star fashion, the partnership was celebrated with a launch party with an exclusive live performance by Raye at Village Underground in East London.
Amongst the plethora of cool-girls in attendance was Mia Regan - the model, Gen-Z fashion muse and girlfriend of Romeo Beckham, who has a penchant for putting a Gen Z twist on her outfits. Case in point, she styled up loungewear pieces (apt for such an event) and showed us how to wear our indoor clothes for a party.
The 20-year-old stepped out in a sports bra with a grey hooded jacket left open and a pair of navy cuffed jogging bottoms that were giving 90s Beckham. Taking it from 'Sunday hangover-wear' to 'launch party cool', she paired the ensemble with black biker boots and layered her hoodie with a leather jacket. She finished the look off with the coolest denim shoulder bag.
Raye styled up her sportswear by pairing her grey unitard with silver barely there heels, whilst former Hello! Fashion cover girl Leomie Anderson opted for silver high-top trainers.
A fashion party where the dress code in a tracksuit? Yes please...
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/culture/512040/hello-fashion-january-guest-list/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:49Z
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Spotted yesterday giggling, hugging and looking chicer than ever, Florence Pugh and Kylie Jenner just hard launched their friendship on the world stage, and I believe we have Timothée Chalamet to thank.
Both of the A-list stars are currently in Paris for Haute Couture Week and made their debut together at the Valentino show. Flo has been an ambassador for the French fashion house for a while now, donning the brand's designs whenever she gets a chance. As for Ky, we can’t be sure if she was in attendance to gain inspiration for her newly released ready-to-wear label, or because she’s a known fashion phonetic. Whatever her reason, we’ve been watching her IG stories intently and in awe.
We’re unsure if the two planned their matching outfit ensembles or not, but for the sake of my sanity, I’m going to assume so. Florence chose to sport an all-black one-shoulder gown, paired with a statement pair of hoop earrings, her go-to diamond-encrusted septum piercing and a Valentino ‘V’ motif gold cuff bracelet.
MORE: Florence Pugh, Gwyneth Paltrow, Naomi Campbell: The Best Dressed Celebs at Paris Couture Week SS24
RELATED: Florence Pugh just entered her 'girlie era' in dazzling pink peplum dress
Kylie chose to don a similar ‘fit, debuting her post-baby figure in a fitted black strapless gown and accessorising with a black fluffy overcoat (very mob wife chic) and a pair of large gold earrings. Both stars chose to sport this year's most trending hairstyle- the side part.
MORE: Kylie Jenner trades in her Hermès Birkin for this 'timeless' British high-street bag
RELATED: Kendall Jenner just hard-launched the itsy bitsy floss bikini trend
As we all know by now, Miss Jenner is dating Hollywood heavyweight Timothée Chalamet who coincidentally starred alongside Florence in both Dune and Little Women. It’s no secret that Timothee and Flo have taken their on-screen friendship off-screen, often seen hanging out at football games and afterparties.
Now that Kylie is in the mix, we can only assume that Flo and Ky hang out extracurricularly, spending their Saturday nights in Beverly Hills playing board games and watching movies like any other regular gal pals would.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/fashion-trends/512033/kylie-jenner-and-florence-pugh-paris-fashion-week/
| 2024-01-25T13:57:55Z
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Three good friends of mine are getting married within the next 14 months (for reference, I’m in my late 20s and at the point where all my friends are either engaged, becoming dog 'pawrents', or having babies - I am currently none of the above). And as a bridesmaid for two and a good friend of the third, I'm fully in the loop when it comes to the dress drama.
Though they’ve all got differing colour schemes, wedding destinations and numbers of bridesmaids, the common issue between all three brides is affordability when it comes to chic bridesmaid dresses.
So, as their resident fashion friend, I'm the one they turn to ask for help looking for chic, stylish dresses that won't break the bank (when I say affordable, by no means do I mean dresses for £20 each, but ‘affordable’ in comparison to many brands where the dresses are £200 plus).
Bridesmaids dresses are often only worn once, but they don't have to be. For example, a simple satin slip dress can be worn underneath a jumper with a pair of knee-high boots for the winter. Or go for an embroidered number that will double up as an elegant black tie gown. "White has been popular ever since Pippa Middleton wore the hue to the wedding of her older sister, The Princess of Wales," explains Hello! Fashion's digital editor Natalie Salmon, "I loved seeing white on all the bridesmaids and flower girls at Kate Moss' wedding to Jamie Hince." And no colour is more versatile than black, and if Sofia Richie dressed her bridesmaids in noir at the 2023 wedding of the year, then you certainly can too...
MORE: 10 Registry office wedding dresses you’ll wear more than once
RELATED: 11 dresses that are perfect for the 'cool-girl' bride
How we chose:
Cost: As mentioned, these dresses aren't cheap. But I've found the chicest ones that start from £50.00 and do not cost more than £150.00
Style: I've chosen dress designs based on current trends, ones that are timeless, or taken inspiration from stylish celebrities. It's important to note that I have not tried on these dresses myself, though I have tried other clothes from some of the brands before. I have only chosen pieces from brands that have a good reputation and are UK-based.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/wish-list/512009/best-chic-affordable-bridesmaid-dresses/
| 2024-01-25T13:58:01Z
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The Princess of Wales has been quietly recovering in hospital since she underwent successful abdominal surgery on Tuesday last week.
And while members of the press were allowed to report from outside The London Clinic on the day that Kensington Palace announced Kate's health news, media have not been allowed to station themselves outside the Marylebone hospital since.
So much secrecy has surrounded the Princess' hospital stay and lengthy recovery.
This is unlike when Kate was expecting Prince George in 2013, and reporters and photographers spent weeks camping outside The Lindo Wing of St Mary's Hospital in Paddington, waiting for news of the royal baby's birth. The media frenzy was even dubbed the 'Great Kate Wait'.
The then Duke and Duchess of Cambridge learnt from this experience and for the following two births of their children, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, media were only invited down to the hospital once Kate was in labour.
"When the royal children were born it was a moment for celebration and there was a controlled arrangement in place for the media to be outside the Lindo Wing to report on it," Emily Nash, HELLO!'s royal editor, explained of the press presence.
And the reason for the secrecy surrounding Kate's hospital stay now is not only to protect her own privacy, but that of other patients at The London Clinic.
Explaining the lack of media presence outside the hospital, Emily added: "This is a different situation to the royal children's births, and you have to consider the privacy of other patients coming in and out for treatment as well as that of the Princess."
Kensington Palace announced Kate's surgery news last week, also calling for privacy. In a statement they said in part: "The Princess of Wales appreciates the interest this statement will generate. She hopes that the public will understand her desire to maintain as much normality for her children as possible; and her wish that her personal medical information remains private.
"Kensington Palace will, therefore, only provide updates on Her Royal Highness' progress when there is significant new information to share."
Kate is expected to remain at The London Clinic for a few more days, before returning home to Windsor to continue her recuperation. She has been keeping in touch with her children George, Charlotte and Louis via FaceTime, while William has been holding the fort at home.
The Prince has scaled back on his official engagements in order to look after his family and to be at his wife's side. Last week, he was pictured arriving at the hospital to visit Kate.
LISTEN to A Right Royal Podcast and find out why Prince William was 'really hurt' by Prince Harry's 'veiled criticisms of Kate':
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/512039/why-kate-middleton-hospital-stay-is-so-secretive/
| 2024-01-25T13:58:07Z
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Months before their own wedding, Zara Tindall (nee Phillips) and her husband Mike attended the Prince and Princess of Wales' nuptials.
Part of the celebrations included a pre-wedding dinner at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park on 28 April 2011, where guests dressed to the nines in black tie. Oozing glamour, Zara kept it classic in an elegant black floor-length gown featuring a figure-hugging silhouette and a one-shouldered neckline.
A patent leather clutch, gold platform heels and sparkly drop earrings were the royal's chosen accessories, ensuring they didn't outshine her bold beauty look. While Zara's makeup was classic, with pink lips and dark eyes, she chose a more daring hairstyle that channelled her mother Princess Anne.
Zara fastened her blonde locks in a French twist with the added volume of a beehive at the crown of her head. The Princess Royal has remained a loyal fan of the beehive through the decades, with Claudia Harrison (who plays Princess Anne in The Crown) telling Marie Claire: "It's like armour."
Hosted by the Queen’s cousin Lady Elizabeth Shakerley, the pre-wedding event was also attended by British royals and Heads of State such as then-Prince Charles and Queen Letizia, who went on to witness Prince William and Princess Kate's wedding on 29 April.
The guests of honour were not present, however, as they were enjoying a private evening before walking down the aisle in front of the eyes of the world. Kate spent the night at the five-star Goring Hotel in the Royal Apartment, which boasted a four-poster bed, a grand piano and a walk-in shower following a £150,000 makeover. The bathroom also reportedly had a flat-screen TV where the Princess-to-be could watch the build-up to the royal wedding from the bath.
Meanwhile, William had a less relaxing start to his nuptials, according to his brother Prince Harry. The Duke of Sussex claimed in his book Spare that William struggled to sleep the night before his big day, so turned to rum to calm his nerves.
"I was stunned when I went to pick him up in the morning and saw his haggard face and red eyes; It seemed that he had not slept at all," Harry wrote.
The couple tied the knot at Westminster Abbey before the newlyweds and 650 guests headed to a lunchtime reception at Buckingham Palace hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
The guest list was then reduced to 300 close friends and family for the evening reception at the Palace, which saw everyone change into evening attire, including Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, Lady Kitty Spencer, William van Cutsem and Chelsy Davy.
Three months later, members of the royal family gathered for another important occasion - Zara and Mike's nuptials. The couple travelled to Canongate Kirk in Scotland for their wedding in July 2011, with the location thought to be chosen because Zara had fond memories of spending time at Balmoral with her late grandmother.
DISCOVER: 12 best websites to buy wedding dresses online - with expert buying advice
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512031/zara-tindall-figure-skimming-wedding-guest-dress-beehive-hair/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:00Z
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Usher is set to perform at the iconic halftime show at the Super Bowl on February 11, following in the footsteps of giants like Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Beyoncé and Coldplay.
As he takes to the stage in the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, fans can expect the King of R&B's greatest hits - from "Yeah!" and "Nice & Slow" to "My Boo'" But as well as revisiting his incredible discography, it's a good time to take a little closer look at his personal life.
A long-time heartthrob, Usher has reportedly dated the likes of TLC's Chilli Thomas and Naomi Campbell. He was previously married to stylist Tameka Foster, with whom he had two sons, and his manager Grace Miguel who he filed for divorce from in 2018.
Since 2018 he has been in a relationship with Jennifer Goicoechea, with whom he shares two kids. But who is she? Here is everything you need to know about the "OMG" singer's latest love interest.
Who is Jenn Goicoechea?
Although publicly known as Usher's girlfriend, Jenn is successful within her own right as the Senior Vice President of A&R at Epic Records, a label owned by Sony Music Entertainment .
The music executive grew up in Miami and reportedly got her start by shadowing her mother, Barbara Goicoechea. Since 1988, Barbara has been the director operations at ACT Productions, a Miami-based event and multimedia production company.
It was while working for her mom that Jenn found work as an assistant to Ciara, which got her foot in the door of the entertainment industry.
How did Usher and Jenn meet?
Usher and Jenn have known each other for years, presumably as they run in the same industry circles.
The music executive even shared a photo of herself whispering in his ear back in 2016 with the playful caption: "Not sure what I'm saying or who I'm speaking too But my nails look good". It's clear that even before they were romantically involved, the two were friendly for a long time.
How long have they been together?
The couple were first linked in 2019 after being photographed together at mutual friend Keith Thomas' 40th birthday party. As such they will celebrate their 5th anniversary in 2024.
Do they have any kids?
Before Usher and Jenn started dating, the "Yeah!" singer already had two kids with ex-wife Tameka Foster. He has gone on to father two more children with his girlfriend.
Usher revealed on Good Morning America that the couple were expecting their first child in September 2020.
Not long after, Usher and Jenn welcomed their daughter Sovereign Bo on September 24th. The singer took to Instagram to share his joy with the world: "We are feeling blessed and full of love with the arrival of our beautiful baby girl, Sovereign Bo Raymond. 'Isn't She lovely' by Stevie Wonder on repeat".
In May 2021, as Usher hosted the iHeartRadio Music Awards, Jen showed off her baby bump as an announcement that they were expecting their second baby.
Four months later, Sire Castrello was born on September 29, which Usher announced on Instagram: "Hi my name is Sire Castrello Raymond … I am the newest addition to the Raymond crew. I was born Sept 29 2021 at 6:42pm weighing 7lbs 13oz. Hear me roar … A.K.A Ra Ra . Gang."
The family was struck with tragedy, as Jenn's grandfather Champ Castrello, had died aged 105 not long before she gave birth. She explained on Instagram that the name 'Castrello' was a way to "keep his name alive".
"Champ was the strongest, bravest, family oriented, funny and kindest man I know.. (other than my baby father lol) I couldn't ask for a better example of how a man should be! He was the definition … it was only right we keep his name alive."
What has Usher said about his girlfriend?
Usher couldn't be happier with Jenn, as he gushed over the music executive on the Angie Martinez IRL podcast: "I got an amazing partner in life, Jennifer Goicoechea." Apparently, his mom "like her and love her too. Hard to accomplish that too, those two things."
He told PEOPLE that they have an "amazing dynamic" where he is "able to be passionate still about what I do and have an incredible partner to work through some of the harder times as a young man dealing with children and dealing with the dynamic of how you communicate with them."
When discussing their family life, the King of R&B explained that Jenn is a great communicator with their kids where he isn't. He explained: "She's better at it than me in many lights. I'm a man-man, so I'm like, 'This is what we're doing,' and I might be a little bit more disciplinary at times."
But generally, it's clear Usher feels incredibly lucky. "I'm very happy, very fortunate to have an incredible friend, not just a partner, she's my best friend and I love her."
What has Jenn said about Usher?
Not long after giving birth to their second child, Jenn took to Instagram to wish Usher a happy birthday, penning an emotional tribute. She wrote: "Like I said in the beginning… We have the most potent version of THC! Trust, Honesty and communication…. I’m honored to have spent the last few years together and growing our family."
She continued: "You deserve your flowers everyday if I’m asked not just on your Birthday! Don’t nobody have heart like you…. You The Goat, The King … The Light and Love of my life! Can’t wait to spend many more with you!"
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512046/who-is-ushers-girlfriend-everything-there-is-to-know-about-jenn-goicoechea/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:06Z
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Savannah Guthrie held her future in her hands - quite literally - on Wednesday when she shared an update on her life with fans.
The Today host took to Instagram where she posted a series of photos alongside an exciting message.
The images were of Savannah holding a physical copy of her brand new book, Mostly What God Does, and it appears that it's the first time the author has seen it in the flesh.
"OK people we have an actual, real, honest to goodness book," she wrote. "Guess this is really happening! And how cute that the slipcover can double as a bookmark!! Thanks for all the kindness, encouragement and love.
"Preorder link in bio + stories + everywhere all over this feed until Feb 20 ;)."
Her fans were elated and said they couldn't wait to get their hands on a copy. The book has created a whirlwind of excitement for not just Savannah and her family but for her Today co-stars too.
Savannah has enlisted the help of Jenna Bush Hager to promote the publication when she goes on the road for a book tour which kicks off shortly after the book's release.
Jenna will join Savannah on the book tour on March 6, which takes place at her church, Good Shepherd New York. Savannah and Jenna go to the same church, with the NBC star opening up about their close bond outside of work during an interview with HELLO! back in 2022.
"I am so lucky to work with this group of extraordinary moms. We all have kids who are similar ages so it's been really fun and kind of wild," Jenna said. "It's great and I don't take it lightly. Even this weekend when I was gone, I had one kid, my husband had two, and Savannah [Guthrie] picked up my kids and took them to church."
Savannah's chat with Jenna has already sold out. However, she is going to also be joined by other Today co-stars, including Hoda Kotb, Craig Melvin and Carson Daly, on her tour.
Mostly What God Does is described by Amazon as being "centered on the essentials of God's love, a love that is needed now more than ever. Savannah Guthrie turns her journalistic eye toward the power of faith in everyday life "
The Christian literature will share reflections on faith and life and aims to be an inspiring read.
She has been vocal about her beliefs in an essay for Today which was adapted from a speech she gave at a Catholic luncheon, she said: "Motherhood and faith go together," she wrote. "I couldn’t do one without the other. You need faith to get through motherhood. Wine helps. But faith is crucial."
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletterand get them delivered straight to your inbox.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512032/today-savannah-guthrie-exciting-update-guess-this-is-really-happening/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:12Z
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Michael Weatherly has sparked a major reaction from NCIS fans after sharing a cryptic message on social media. The actor, who played Tony DiNozzo on the long-running drama until 2016, took to X on Wednesday, revealing that "so much has happened" recently.
Sharing a selfie showing the 55-year-old pointing to the side of his head, he penned in the caption: "I'm pensive… and so much has happened in the last little bit… can you hear my thoughts?"
Fans rushed to the comments section with their theories, with many speculating about his return to the CBS show.
One person asked: "Are you returning to NCIS sir?" while another wrote: "You have to be thinking 'I can't wait to return to NCIS with Ziva and Tali!'"
A third person commented: "I'm ready to return to NCIS," while a fourth remarked: "If your thoughts are 'get ready for DiNozzo round 2' then I hear you loud and clear."
Michael's latest post comes just over a week after he revealed his plans to reprise his NCIS role one day.
Responding to a fan on X who asked the actor to pick his favorite role out of Tony DiNozzo and his Bull character Dr. Jason Bull, Michael wrote: "There will be more DiNozzo someday because he is the one character that felt unfinished… that's my plan! We shall see…"
Fans of the show were delighted with Michael's reply and shared their opinions on a potential comeback in the comments section. Agreeing with the actor, one person penned: "Not only in his personal life but professionally DiNozzo also feels unfinished. He's so smart, competent, witty and more than capable of leading his own team. I would love to see Tony in a very important job position, like he deserves."
Many fans are hoping to see Michael return to the show in its upcoming 21st season, which will honor the late David McCallum, who played Ducky Mallard, with a special tribute in episode two.
NCIS co-showrunners Steven D. Binder and David North previously revealed that the second instalment will see Ducky help the team solve one last crime from beyond the grave. While they remained tight-lipped on potential cameos from returning stars, they did tell TV Line that fans can expect "a very touching and special moment you won't want to miss".
Michael left NCIS in 2016 after a 13-year stint on the show. At the time, the actor said he was "ready for a new challenge" and went on to star in the CBS courtroom drama, Bull, which ran for six seasons until 2022.
Opening up about his exit in a previous interview with TV Line, Michael revealed that he began to consider leaving the show after the departure of his co-star Cote de Pablo, who played his on-screen love interest, Ziva David.
Talking about Tony and Ziva's "will-they-won't-they" romance, which was a long-running storyline in the series, Michael said: "Their great dynamic, the badinage and sparring and flirting between those two characters and how they would swing from siblings to near lovers and back to buddies, that was gone. Then I got to the point where I felt I'd stayed at the party for too long."
He went on to say: "The show was a huge success, but I just suddenly realized that I probably had other things that I should be doing," adding that he wanted to spend more time with his family.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512041/michael-weatherly-sparks-huge-reaction-ncis-fans-cryptic-post/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:18Z
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Dua Lipa has one of the most versatile style agendas on the planet.
Alongside her deleting her entire Instagram feed and resurfacing with completely new hair and a brand new dress code, she has the ability to go from cool-girl indie to popstar glam at any given moment. And her latest showstopping look perfectly combined the two.
The Dance The Night Away singer and fashion designer stunned in a custom Gucci gown at the premiere of Argylle - the latest film to add to the acting roster.
The dark plum-ish-hued dress featured a corset bodice, a strapless sweetheart neckline with a black trim and was adorned with iridescent sequins.
Dua isn't shy of wearing a sultry glitzy dress (notably her internet-breaking backless mini), but this custom maxi designed by Sabato De Sarno possessed an air of grungey glamour, complimenting the singer's newfound edgy aesthetic.
The flattering silhouette is also bang on trend as proven by the SS24 runways. "The emphasis is firmly on the hourglass silhouette and for this season, " says Hello! Fashion's Orin Carlin, "designers are favouring a more structural approach. Steeped in history, keep an eye out for boning and criss-cross lace-up styles."
Argylle, the latest instalment in the Kingsman movies directed by Matthew Vaughn - was supposed to be Dua's debut on-screen role before starring in Barbie, but the 2022 release date was pushed back to this year.
Argylle is set to hit cinemas in the UK on 2 February, it features a cast that includes Henry Cavill, Catherine O'Hara, Dua Lipa, Ariana DeBose, John Cena, and Samuel L. Jackson, to name a few.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/fashion-trends/512015/dua-lipa-strapless-corset-dress-argylle-premiere/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:24Z
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Anyone who is starting to get their head around finance will be met with the same confusing words cropping up regularly. To help you get a better understanding, here’s the ultimate guide to some of the key financial terms you should have on your radar.
Sarah Coles, Head of Personal Finance at Hargreaves Lansdown, says one of the most annoying phenomena is that people have created lots of confusing words to describe the same simple thing. You might hear people talking about shares or stocks or equities, leaving you wondering what any of them are... but they’re all the same!
1. Asset
An asset is anything you own that adds financial value. This is opposed to a liability, which is money you owe. Examples of personal assets include your home and shares as well as other property, such as rental homes, commercial properties, or a savings account.
2. Bonds
Bonds are issued by governments and corporations as a means of raising money. Unlike stocks, they do not provide ownership to the issuer. Instead, a bond purchaser makes a loan to the issuer that must be paid back at a predetermined time. The issuer pays periodic interest to the purchaser while it has use of their money, generally twice a year.
3. The Bank of England Base Rate
The base rate is the charge placed on banks for lending and savings and is set by the Bank of England. This is important to variable-rate customers, as it can either influence, or in the case of a tracker rate, directly impact your mortgage interest. It does also influence fixed-rates, but not directly.
4. Capital Gains
A capital gain is an increase in the value of an asset or investment above the price you initially paid for it. If you sell the asset for less than the original purchase price, that would be considered a capital loss.
5. Compound Interest
This refers to “interest on interest”. Rather, when you’re investing or saving, compound interest is earned on the amount you deposited, plus any interest you’ve accumulated over time. While it can grow your savings, it can also increase your debt; compound interest is charged on the initial amount you were loaned, as well as the expenses added to your outstanding balance over time.
6. Cryptocurrency
Cryptocurrency is any form of currency that exists digitally or virtually and uses cryptography to secure transactions.
Cryptocurrency is a recent phenomenon with a whole new word salad to digest – from Blockchain to Altcoin and Cold Wallets. Sarah explains: “You could spend a great deal of time investigating, but the key with crypto is that this is gambling. There’s no real underlying value, so prices could rocket or plummet for no real reason. You might want to gamble, but need to know that you could lose everything.”
7. Interest Rate
An interest rate is a percentage charged on the total amount you borrow or paid on the amount you save. If you’re a borrower, the interest rate is the amount you are charged for borrowing money. If you’re a saver, the interest is paid to you – because banks are paying to 'hire' your money.
8. Liabilities
A liability is something that a company or individual owes – typically a debt of money. Common liabilities can include accounts payable, loans, mortgages and more. Liabilities are sometimes contrasted with assets, something that a company or individual owns.
9. Liquidity
Liquidity means how quickly you can get your hands on your cash. In simpler terms, liquidity is to get your money whenever you need it. Liquidity might be your emergency savings account or the cash lying with you that you can access in case of any unforeseen happening or any financial setback.
10. Stocks/Shares
Stocks are portions/shares of ownership in a company. Companies sell shares or stocks to raise money for developing products, paying debts and growing their business. When individuals or entities buy a company's stock, they are investing in that company.
DISCOVER: Will my side hustle affect my tax bill? Warning for Etsy, Vinted and Depop users
Google can be an excellent place to get definitions of certain financial terms (like "what does ISA stand for" or "when should I start receiving the state pension"). It's very important to remember that taxes and financial rules change regularly so make sure what you're reading is up to date.
Sarah also reiterated that we should "take care" about who is providing this education, however. A newspaper or magazine, or a qualified and regulated professional or company, can be trusted. An online finfluencer could lead you astray – even if they have an enormous number of followers.
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| 2024-01-25T14:10:31Z
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Meghan Markle is always preened to perfection whenever she steps out into the limelight, and this week was no different. The former Suits star, who has travelled to Jamaica with Prince Harry, wowed on the red carpet when she attended the Bob Marley: One Love premiere in Kingston.
While all eyes were noticeably on Meghan's chic all-black ensemble, it seems the Duchess has made a subtle tweak to her fuss-free makeup - thicker eyebrows.
In the newly-released pictures, the mum-of-two was glowing as she sported more full and fluffy brows compared to the over-plucked eyebrow trend of the '90s which she has sported in the past.
Yana Gushchina, the founder of beauty hotspot Browfique, reveals the secret to Meghan's fuller eyebrow look and an alternative way how we can achieve them too.
"It appears that Meghan Markle has embraced a fuller eyebrow look, achieved through a technique known as powdering, a form of microblading," she said. "Ombre brows, with their gradual colour transition and soft powder finish, offer a natural and well-defined appearance.
"While Meghan Markle has achieved a fuller brow look with ombre brows and powdering, an alternative approach worth considering is henna tinting."
Henna tinting is another way to achieve eyebrow tinting – a regime that stains the skin giving you tinted hairs for up to six weeks.
"This technique involves using a henna product with the staying power on the skin, often enhanced with HD glue for longevity," explained the London-based MUA. "Combining henna tint with a touch of pencil or additional tint can provide a well-defined and lasting result.
"This method offers a versatile and customizable solution, allowing individuals to achieve the desired shape and fullness while ensuring a natural and enduring effect. Henna is available at Browfique, starting price is 26 pounds."
In recent years, Meghan has rocked a more minimal makeup look and has added feathery false eyelashes to her beauty style. Meghan has long been admired for her impeccable beauty choices, and her go-to makeup products have become staples in the beauty community. Among her past favourites is MAC's Eye Kohl eyeliner in the shade Teddy, a rich brown with subtle gold undertones.
The Duchess previously revealed that this eyeliner is essential to her "five-minute face" routine, telling Allure: "If I'm going to amp [my makeup] up for the night, then I use MAC ‘Teddy’ eyeliner, which is a really beautiful brown that has some gold in it."
Meghan’s former makeup artist Lydia Sellers once told HELLO!: "Meghan is the type of girl with many talents. She is someone that is 'in the know' when it comes to products, tips, tricks, and trends. Working with her was always a collaborative effort."
She continued: "Meghan is very self-assured when it comes to what she likes in a beauty routine and our time together very rarely ventured too far from her classic makeup look."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/512026/meghan-markles-face-transformation-missed/
| 2024-01-25T14:10:37Z
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NEW DELHI - Singapore’s CapitaLand India Trust (CLINT) has set up its first solar power plant in the country to power its energy needs in the southern state of Tamil Nadu.
The solar power plant is captive, to be used for the company’s needs as opposed to providing power to other users.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/south-asia/capitaland-india-trust-to-set-up-21-megawatt-solar-power-plant-in-tamil-nadu
| 2024-01-25T14:52:16Z
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BERLIN - German business morale unexpectedly worsened in January, declining for the second month in a row as Europe’s largest economy struggles to shake off a recession and short-lived optimism gives way to fears of another weak year.
The ifo institute said its business climate index fell to 85.2 from a slightly downwardly revised reading of 86.3 in December. Analysts polled by Reuters had expected the indicator to improve in January to 86.7.
“The German economy is stuck in recession,” said ifo president Clemens Fuest.
German gross domestic product (GDP) contracted by 0.3 per cent in 2023.
“The tentative revival of optimism last autumn has turned out to be very short-lived,” said ING economist Carsten Brzeski, forecasting another shallow recession this year of -0.3 per cent.
In 2023, Germany was plagued by persistently high inflation, high energy prices and weak foreign demand, and topped off with a budget meltdown that prompted deep subsidy cuts while rattling the nation’s fractious coalition government.
As trade disruptions caused by Houthi attacks on shipping in the Red Sea bring fresh concerns for Germany’s export industry, the closely watched composite PMI index fell for a seventh consecutive month in January.
However, ifo’s head of surveys Klaus Wohlrabe told Reuters that supply chains remained robust in the face of the Red Sea attacks.
“They have not yet led to supply bottlenecks for raw materials and primary products,” Dr Wohlrabe said.
2024 Recession Fears
The start of the new year also brought mass farmer protests and nationwide rail strikes, as discontent grows over Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s economic policies.
On Jan 24, the ifo revised down its growth estimate, with the economy now expected to rebound by a meagre 0.7 per cent this year.
Further highlighting Germany’s economic woes, particularly the outlook for its struggling property sector, other data released on Jan 25 showed incoming orders in the country’s construction industry fell 7.4 per cent month-on-month in November
“Most economists are still too optimistic,” said Dr Joerg Kraemer of Commerzbank, which is also expecting a 0.3 per cent decline in GDP this year.
The ifo’s current assessment and expectations components, based on a survey of around 9,000 managers, also dimmed in January.
“The business climate is keeping hopes for growth in the current quarter at zero,” said Mr Alexander Krueger of Hacuk Aufhaeuser Lampe.
“Unfavourable location conditions and unsettling economic policy are major problems,” he added. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/german-economy-limps-into-2024-as-business-sentiment-falls
| 2024-01-25T14:52:26Z
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SINGAPORE - Two teenagers were among four arrested for their suspected involvement in a recent spate of SMS banking-related phishing scam cases.
Two men, aged 23 and 52, and two male teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were arrested in an islandwide operation between Jan 22 and 24 by officers from the Commercial Affairs Department, the police said on Jan 25.
Preliminary investigations showed that they had allegedly facilitated the scams by relinquishing their bank accounts, Internet banking credentials or disclosing Singpass credentials for profit, the police added.
The police said they have received reports in January of SMS banking-related phishing scams, where scammers would impersonate DBS Bank or the bank’s employees through spoofed SMSes to phish for victims’ banking credentials.
In these cases, the victims received unsolicited SMSes – from both overseas and local numbers, or short codes – claiming to represent DBS Bank or POSB Bank.
The messages warned victims of possible unauthorised attempts to access their bank accounts and instructed them to click on URL links in the SMSes to verify their identities and stop the transactions.
The victims were directed to spoofed DBS Bank websites after clicking on the links, and were misled into providing their Internet banking credentials and one-time passwords (OTPs), which the scammers could use to make unauthorised withdrawals.
The 23-year-old man will be charged in court with abetting unknown persons to secure unauthorised access to the bank’s computer system.
First-time offenders can be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to two years, or both.
The man will also be charged with disclosing Singpass credentials.
First-time offenders can be fined up to $10,000, jailed for up to three years, or both.
The police urged the public to reject money-making opportunities that seem attractive, and promise fast and easy pay-outs for the use of their Singpass accounts or bank accounts.
“The police would like to remind members of the public that individuals will be held accountable if they are found to be linked to such crimes,” they added.
They also advised the public to download the ScamShield application on their mobile devices and enable security features such as two-factor authentication, or multi-factor authentication for banks, and transaction limits for Internet banking transactions.
The public should verify any claims with official bank websites or sources. Banks will never send clickable links via SMS, and neither will their employees call to ask for Internet banking credentials or OTPs.
The police encouraged the public to tell the authorities, family and friends about scams, as well as report any fraudulent transactions to the bank immediately.
For information on scams, visit www.scamalert.sg or call the Anti-Scam Helpline on 1800-722-6688.
Those with information about such scams can call the police hotline on 1800-255-0000 or visit www.police.gov.sg/iwitness
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/2-teens-among-4-arrested-in-islandwide-anti-scam-enforcement-operation
| 2024-01-25T14:52:37Z
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SINGAPORE - Despite the progress made by the Malay community, the five-year recidivism rate of former offenders is an area for concern, said Law and Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam on Jan 25.
He was speaking at the first Malay/Muslim Organisation Rehabilitation Network conference held at the Singapore Expo.
More than 50 organisations were in attendance at the conference organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Singapore Prison Service (SPS).
Mr Shanmugam noted that the two-year recidivism rate for Malay offenders fell from 34.1 per cent among those released in 2010, to 24.7 per cent for those released in 2020.
In the broader community, he also noted progress in education and jobs over the years.
He said it was “extremely significant” that 85 per cent of Malay households own their own homes and that more than 60 per cent live in four-room or bigger flats.
“What does four-room in Singapore mean? To me, four-room is a marker of middle class.”
He added that this is because those who retain such flats bought from the Government for some years, would likely have equity of between $150,000 and $250,000.
But Mr Shanmugam highlighted the five-year-recidivism rate as one of the challenges.
It is the proportion of inmates released from prison who ended up reoffending and getting detained, sentenced to jail, or given a day reporting order within five years of their release.
He said: “If we look at it over five years, and whether they reoffend, that remains quite high. That’s 50 per cent – one in two go back to jail within five years.”
Annual statistics released by SPS in 2023 showed the overall five-year recidivism rate was at 45.2 per cent.
Another challenge, Mr Shanmugam added, is the increasingly difficult battle against drug abuse, with the growing global supply of drugs, and liberal attitudes towards drugs in other countries that are influencing Singaporeans, especially young people.
Noting that inter-generational offending is also a challenge, he said: “These are problems that can be solved. Now, we know the statistics. We know who are the children at risk.
“We should be able to intervene and help them before they get into trouble. So, we need to work together to deal with these; learn from each other, tap each other’s experiences, skills and resources.”
When asked by The Straits Times about the five-year recidivism rate at the Jan 25 conference, Minister of State for Home Affairs Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim said the Malay/Muslim Organisation Rehabilitation Network can help to support inmates who are released from prison.
The network, formed in November 2021, comprises more than 20 organisations including mosques, social service agencies, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, self-help group Mendaki and Pertapis Halfway House.
MHA said the conference on Jan 25 served as a platform to inspire and galvanise Malay/Muslim organisations to collaborate more closely to serve the needs of Malay/Muslim inmates, former offenders and their families.
Mr Nassar Mohamad Zain, president of non-profit organisation 4PM, said the conference was useful to learn what other organisations were doing.
4PM focuses on helping the youth, including children from incarcerated families.
Mr Nassar, 40, said he had spoken with another organisation during the conference to see how it could support the families of the children 4PM was assisting.
Mr Lezan Ariffin, who is head of programmes at Goal Aspiration – a support group set up by former offenders to help their peers – said he spoke to representatives from other organisations about the programmes they have, and that he plans to find out more about those he found suitable for his beneficiaries.
Mr Lezan, 56, who is a former offender, has served nine sentences since he was 18, mostly for drug offences. He has not reoffended since his release in 2020.
He said: “Change can happen when you put in effort.”
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/despite-progress-long-term-reoffending-in-malay-community-still-an-area-for-concern-shanmugam
| 2024-01-25T14:52:47Z
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SINGAPORE – A man sent a forged letter of appointment to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) in his passport application in September 2022.
Winson Chua Xianwen also submitted documents including another forged letter to MHA’s national service (NS) portal in his application for a deferment of his in-camp training (ICT) period in 2023.
The 39-year-old Singaporean pleaded guilty to two counts of forgery for the purpose of cheating and was sentenced to 10 months’ jail on Jan 25.
For reasons not disclosed in court documents, Chua’s passport was earlier cancelled in 2015.
He later created a letter, purportedly from the managing director of a construction firm, and sent it via e-mail as part of his passport application on Sept 5, 2022.
This forged letter of appointment, dated Aug 1, 2022, bore the so-called managing director’s digital signature and the company’s letterhead.
The document stated that Chua had been offered a job as a project manager at the firm, and his job scope included liaising with Malaysia-based clients and suppliers.
Deputy Public Prosecutor Quek Lu Yi told the court that Chua forged the letter to intentionally induce MHA and ICA to approve his passport application.
The truth emerged when the authorities contacted the purported managing director and found out that he did not hold any position in the firm.
The man also told investigators that he did not draft the letter and was not even aware of its existence.
Court documents did not state when the authorities reached out to the purported managing director, but further investigations revealed that Chua had committed a similar offence on another occasion.
He had submitted documents, including another forged letter dated Dec 28, 2022, to MHA’s NS portal to support his application for a deferment of his ICT, which was slated to take place between March 27 and April 9, 2023.
This deferment letter also bore the construction firm’s letterhead. The digital signature of the same “managing director” was also appended to the forged document, which Chua created using Microsoft Word.
The prosecutor said: “The accused had forged the deferment letter intending to commit fraud by causing the MHA NS services branch to defer the accused’s ICT period on the basis that the accused had been appointed at the company and was needed... to run projects.”
Chua’s application for a deferment of his ICT period was approved on Jan 10, 2023.
On Jan 25, the DPP urged the court to sentence Chua to up to 11 months’ jail, stressing that his offences were premeditated.
Defence lawyer Raphael Louis, however, pleaded for his client to be given a shorter jail term. He said his client’s offences had caused no financial losses.
Chua’s bail had been set at $20,000, and he was told to surrender himself at the State Courts on Feb 19 to begin his jail term.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/jail-for-man-who-gave-forged-letters-when-applying-for-passport-in-camp-training-deferment
| 2024-01-25T14:52:58Z
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SINGAPORE – Singaporeans with chronic medical needs who have enrolled with a general practitioner (GP) under Healthier SG can get more subsidies when they opt for the programme’s new Chronic Tier from Feb 1.
Under this framework, they will be able to access certain common drugs from their Healthier SG GP clinics at prices comparable with those from polyclinics, the Ministry of Health (MOH) said in a press release on Jan 25.
This is an enhanced subsidy for chronic drugs at GP clinics for Healthier SG enrollees who are Community Health Assist Scheme (Chas), Pioneer Generation (PG) and Merdeka Generation (MG) cardholders.
Most Singaporean patients with complex chronic diseases have the cost of medications for their condition covered by Chas at their enrolled GP clinics.
However, they prefer to get their medications from polyclinics due to the lower prices as their current Chas benefits are not enough to pay for the drugs at GP clinics.
Under the Healthier SG Chronic Tier, they can get their supply of chronic drugs from GP clinics at around the same price as polyclinics.
These cardholders can also receive means-tested subsidies of up to 87.5 per cent for selected chronic medications with no dollar cap at their enrolled GPs. For other parts of their care, such as consultation, laboratory tests and other types of medicine, they can get subsidies of up to $360 a year.
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung said in March 2022 that Chas already provides significant subsidies for patients who have lower chronic medication needs and that they pay nothing or very little for doctor visits and medications for their chronic condition.
With the annual limit of $500, patients with chronic diseases are well covered by the Chas Chronic Tier. Should they apply for subsidies to cover their medication, they will get a 75 per cent subsidy without any dollar cap, with the annual limit at $330.
Most Healthier SG enrollees, therefore, will likely not need to switch to the new tier. But clinic assistant Kathleen Koh, 43, still signed up for it.
Ms Koh has had hypertension since she was 19 but was put on medication only when she was in her mid-30s.
“When the readings spiked, both my doctor and I got worried,” she told The Straits Times.
“For each visit to the clinic in Buangkok, the bill is about $80, but I have the blue Chas card and I am fully subsidised, so I did not have to pay a cent.”
But Ms Koh signed up for the new tier under Healthier SG “in case I suffer from more chronic diseases when I get older”.
MOH said in its statement that more than 1,000 Healthier SG GP clinics will be ready to offer enhanced subsidies for selected medications under the Healthier SG Chronic Tier.
The remaining clinics, making up less than 5 per cent of eligible ones, are expected to be ready in the coming weeks after completing the required logistical preparation.
Patients enrolled at these remaining clinics may continue to tap their existing Chas subsidies.
Also, from Feb 1, enrolled residents with chronic conditions can use their MediSave savings of up to between $500 and $700 to fully pay for their treatment at the enrolled primary care clinic, instead of having to co-pay 15 per cent of their bill in cash.
As at Jan 23, about 700,000 Singapore residents have enrolled in Healthier SG.
Residents aged 40 and above can enrol with their preferred Healthier SG GP clinic or polyclinic through the HealthHub app or at any of the 39 enrolment stations located in community centres and clubs (CCs) or polyclinics.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/more-subsidies-available-under-healthier-sg-chronic-tier-from-feb-1
| 2024-01-25T14:53:09Z
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Australia captain Pat Cummins and England's Nat Sciver-Brunt were named Cricketers of the Year by the International Cricket Council on Thursday.
Cummins won the men's award after a year in which he led Australia to the World Test Championship and World Cup titles.
"It's a huge honour. It has been a big year, lots of wonderful team success," Cummins said.
"To get this individual honour is huge and I am pretty amazed. In terms of individual accolades, it is right up there."
All-rounder Sciver-Brunt won her second successive Women's Cricketer of the Year award, after consistent performances in all three formats, scoring 137 runs in two Tests, 393 runs in six ODIs and 364 runs in 10 T20Is.
"It feels pretty special," Sciver-Brunt said.
"I wasn't expecting it as I was coming up against some players that have done so well in 2023. I’m really pleased and pretty proud."
Australian opener Usman Khawaja was named the ICC Men's Test Cricketer of the Year, while Virat Kohli won his fourth ICC Men's ODI Cricketer of the Year award after guiding India to the Cricket World Cup final.
Sri Lanka's Chamari Athapaththu won her first ICC Women's ODI Cricketer of the Year, taking the award ahead of Sciver-Brunt.
England's Richard Illingworth won the Umpire of the Year for the third time, and Zimbabwe Cricket won the ICC Spirit of Cricket Award for their sporting conduct after their win over West Indies in the World Cup qualifier match in June. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/cummins-and-sciver-brunt-named-icc-cricketers-of-the-year
| 2024-01-25T14:53:20Z
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HYDERABAD, India - To say Tom Hartley's test debut did not go according to plan would be a massive understatement after the England spinner was hit to all corners of the ground on day one of the opening test against India on Thursday.
For the first time in men's cricket, England went into a test match with a solitary fast bowler, Mark Wood, picking a spin-heavy attack instead that also included left-arm spinner Hartley.
While bowling in India's spin-friendly conditions remains a dream for many a touring turner, it also means pitting their skills against India's supple-wristed, nimble-footed batters, who relish that kind of bowling.
Hartley entered the series having played 20 first-class matches and the 24-year-old produced a lower order cameo of 23 in England's first-innings total of 246.
It was his strong suit, with the ball, that did not come off.
Hartley watched helplessly as India's Yashasvi Jaiswal sent his first ball in international cricket soaring over the long-on ropes for a six.
The opener repeated the treatment four balls later to make it a highly forgettable first over in test cricket for Hartley.
The hard-hitting Jaiswal, who smashed 76 not out off 70 balls, appeared to take a liking to Hartley's bowling.
While commentators debated the logic behind continuing with Hartley, he looked clearly under pressure bowling half-volleys, long-hops and even a couple of no-balls.
The closest he came to tasting success was when England, believing Hartley had trapped Shubman Gill lbw, challenged the original not-out decision.
Replays showed the ball would have sailed over the stumps and the gamble cost Ben Stokes and his men their third and final review.
Team mate Ben Duckett denied they had thrown the debutant spinner to the wolves.
"No, not at all. We back Tommy to turn it around," Duckett said when asked if he sympathised with the spinner who bled 63 runs in his nine wicketless overs.
"Stokesy gives him how many overs to bowl and other captains might take you off after two overs and you're then hiding away for the rest of the game.
"That's Stokesy, he keeps bowling him and he nearly had Shubman there at the end." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/englands-hartley-makes-chastening-test-debut-against-india
| 2024-01-25T14:53:30Z
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KYIV - Former Ukraine striker Andriy Shevchenko was elected president of the country's Football Association (UAF) on Thursday.
The 47-year-old received 93 out of 94 votes at the UAF Congress in Kyiv. Shevchenko, who is a delegate, could have cast the 94th vote but chose not to.
Shevchenko, who retired from playing in 2012 after featuring for Dynamo Kyiv, AC Milan and Chelsea, replaces Andriy Pavelko, the UAF's long-time president who faces trial in Ukraine on embezzlement charges. Pavelko has denied any wrongdoing.
Shevchenko is Ukraine's all-time top scorer with 48 goals in 111 matches from 1995 to 2012.
He also managed Ukraine, leading the national team to the quarter-finals of the 2020 European Championship. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/ex-striker-shevchenko-elected-ukraine-fa-president
| 2024-01-25T14:53:40Z
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Inter Milan, fresh from their Supercoppa triumph, find themselves in the rare position this season of going into the Serie A weekend in second place, one point behind Juventus.
Back in early October, on matchday eight, Inter's draw with Bologna allowed AC Milan briefly take over at the top, but since then their city rivals have slipped away, and Juventus are the side challenging for the title.
Simone Inzaghi's side do have a game in hand on the leaders, as Inter were busy in Saudi Arabia last weekend defeating Lazio 3-0 in the semi-final followed up by a 1-0 win over Napoli on Monday to lift their eighth Supercoppa.
Focus now returns to the Scudetto race where Inter face an away game at Fiorentina on Sunday, an always entertaining clash which often serves up plenty of goals, with last season's game in Florence proving to be no exception.
Fiorentina looked to have rescued a point when Luka Jovic made it 3-3 in the 90th minute, but deep in stoppage time Henrikh Mkhitaryan silenced the home crowd with a late winner.
Inter also broke Florentine hearts in last season's Coppa Italia final where Lautaro Martinez scored twice after his team mate with Argentina, Nicolas Gonzalez, gave Fiorentina an early lead.
Martinez scored the only goal in the Supercoppa final, and has netted 18 goals in 18 Serie A games, while Gonzalez missed the last five league games with a hamstring injury but is expected to return to the Fiorentina bench this weekend.
Inter are without Nicolo Barella and Hakan Calhanoglu, both suspended, and Fiorentina are missing their suspended captain Cristiano Biraghi.
Fiorentina are up against the meanest defence in Serie A, in fact Inter have the best defensive record across Europe's top five leagues, conceding just 10 goals in 20 games, not good news for a side whose strikers struggle to find the net.
Between them, Lucas Beltran and M'Bala Nzola have managed just six league goals, two of those coming from the penalty spot, but Beltran is hitting form at just the right time as his four league goals have all come in his last six appearances.
When the sides met at the San Siro earlier this season, Inter romped to an easy 4-0 win, but now fourth-place Fiorentina have their eyes on Champions League qualification.
Juventus could stretch their provisional lead to four points by the time Inter play, as they host relegation strugglers Empoli on Saturday, but will need to be wary of in-form Szymon Zurkowski.
Empoli are second from bottom with just four wins all season, but two of those came away to Fiorentina and Napoli, and last weekend they had a 3-0 victory over Monza, with Zurkowski scoring a hat-trick.
The Polish midfielder recently returned to Empoli from Spezia for another loan spell at the club, making an immediate impact with four goals in two games.
Milan, seven points off the top spot in third, are aiming for their fifth consecutive league win when they host Bologna on Saturday.
Napoli look to put their inconsistent form behind them, failing to win consecutive league games since Walter Mazzarri took over in November, when they travel to face Lazio on Sunday.
AS Roma target back-to-back wins under new manager Daniele De Rossi with an away game at bottom of table Salernitana on Monday. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/inter-playing-catch-up-for-a-change-when-they-face-fiorentina
| 2024-01-25T14:53:51Z
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LONDON – The blockbuster clash in the FA Cup fourth round will see Tottenham Hotspur host holders Manchester City on Jan 26 in what promises to be a thrilling battle, especially after a 3-3 English Premier League draw between both sides last December.
City embarked on their Cup defence with an easy 5-0 win over Huddersfield Town in the previous round, while Spurs beat former City captain Vincent Kompany’s Burnley side 1-0.
That win over Huddersfield was City’s fifth in a row in all competitions, before Pep Guardiola’s men notched a sixth triumph with a last-gasp 3-2 victory over Newcastle United last weekend in the Premier League.
City will head into the clash with Tottenham with confidence, but Guardiola has urged his team not to be complacent as he believes it is more than just a fourth-round match.
“It’s a final and it’s tough at Spurs. We have played well there, but not scored there yet,” said the City boss.
“They have been better than us so far.”
Guardiola is wary that his side have lost all five fixtures at Tottenham’s new ground without scoring a single goal. They attempted 84 shots with 22 on target in those five games without finding the net.
But since a 1-0 Premier League defeat by Aston Villa in December, City have scored at least two goals in their last nine games in all competitions, so momentum would be on their side.
Spurs, however, have also won 12 of their last 13 home matches in the FA Cup – drawing the other – since losing 1-0 to Crystal Palace in 2016 at White Hart Lane.
So while City are in good form, they will first need to banish their poor record at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Their aim to score and win will be tougher as Guardiola will not have star striker Erling Haaland back after the Norwegian suffered a setback in his rehabilitation from injury.
Manuel Akanji is also injured while fellow centre-back John Stones will travel but is not fully fit.
“Training camp was good (in Abu Dhabi) and he trained here the last few days. But he’s not perfect (to start),” the manager added of Haaland.
Off the pitch, City have signed 18-year-old Argentinian midfielder Claudio Echeverri from River Plate on a contract until June 2028, the club announced on Jan 25.
Echeverri will remain at the Buenos Aires club, where he has so far made six appearances since his debut last June, until January 2025.
In the Spurs camp, manager Ange Postecoglou is again hoping to end the club’s 16-year wait for a major trophy since they won the 2008 League Cup.
With no European football this season and an early exit from the League Cup, the Australian boss had time to put his ideas and attacking philosophy across to his team, although the price to pay was the increase in injuries.
Tottenham have not suffered a fourth-round exit in the FA Cup since 2018-19 and chances are Postecoglou will instruct his men to carry on attacking in order to beat City.
Not since they drew 0-0 with AC Milan in March 2023 have Spurs failed to score at home in any tournament, a proud record that the Tottenham boss – who was appointed in June – would want to continue.
Postecoglou will be boosted by the return of key playmaker James Maddison, who is “available to start”.
“Team news wise, everyone has got through well,” he added.
“We gave them a few days off, which I think was good for them. (Maddison) is back training with the group. And Ben (Davies) and Dane Scarlett also began training so it’s good to get the numbers back up.”
He will miss the injured Giovani Lo Celso, Manor Solomon and Alejo Veliz, while captain Son Heung-min, Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma are away at the Asian Cup and the Africa Cup of Nations. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/man-city-boss-pep-guardiola-ready-for-tough-final-at-tottenham-hotspur
| 2024-01-25T14:54:01Z
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AL WAKRAH, Qatar - South Korea finished second in their Asian Cup group after Malaysia held them to a 3-3 draw on Thursday with an equaliser in the 15th minute of added time which saw Bahrain finish top with a 1-0 win over Jordan.
Bahrain topped Group E with six points thanks to an Abdulla Yusuf Helal winner while South Korea finished with five points. Jordan finished third with four points and also went through as one of the best third-placed teams.
South Korea opened the scoring in the 21st minute when Jeong Woo-Yeong headed home from a corner. The goal was initially not awarded as Malaysia keeper Syihan Hazmi clawed the ball out of the air before VAR confirmed it had crossed the line.
However, Malaysia equalised six minutes into the second half when they won the ball back high up the pitch before Faisal Halim twisted and turned in the box to score from a tight angle.
Malaysia then took the lead 11 minutes later when Arif Aiman was fouled in the box by Seol Young-Woo and awarded a penalty after a VAR check, with the forward stepping up himself to put it away and push South Korea down to third in the group.
But Lee Kang-in restored parity in the 83rd minute when his free kick into the top corner went in off the woodwork after Hazmi attempted a save, with the strike going down as an own goal.
South Korea won a penalty in injury time with another VAR check after the referee deemed Oh Hyeon-Gyu to have been fouled when he was sandwiched between two defenders while vying for the ball, with Son Heung-min finding the bottom corner from the spot.
But with virtually the last kick of the game in the 15th minute of stoppage time, Romel Morales equalised at the other end to spark wild celebrations among the Malaysian fans behind the goal.
In the other game, Bahrain netted the winner from a counter-attack in the first half when Helal sprinted from the centre circle with just the keeper to beat and pulled the trigger from outside the box to score. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/south-korea-through-to-asian-cup-last-16-after-3-3-draw-with-malaysia-bahrain-top
| 2024-01-25T14:54:12Z
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MILAN - Charles Leclerc has renewed his contract with Ferrari to “beyond the 2024 season”, the Formula One team announced on Jan 25.
The Italian racing outfit did not specify the length of the contract extension for Leclerc, who finished fifth last season and way behind world champion Max Verstappen.
“I’m very pleased to know that I will be wearing the Scuderia Ferrari race suit for several more seasons to come. To race for this team has been my dream since I was three years old,” said Leclerc in a statement.
“My dream remains that of winning the world championship with Ferrari and I’m sure that in the years ahead, we will enjoy great times together and make our fans happy.”
Leclerc, 26, has been driving for Ferrari’s F1 team since 2019, one year after making his debut in the premier racing championship with Sauber.
The Monegasque had three years previously been at the Ferrari Driver Academy before winning the F2 championship in 2017.
Since joining the Scuderia Leclerc has won five Grands Prix, claimed 30 podium finishes and started on pole position 23 times. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/formula-one/ferrari-extend-leclercs-contract-beyond-2024
| 2024-01-25T14:54:22Z
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MELBOURNE - China's Zheng Qinwen ended the fairytale run of qualifier Dayana Yastremska at the Australian Open on Thursday with a 6-4 6-4 victory to reach her first Grand Slam final, where she will face defending champion Aryna Sabalenka.
The points were short and sharp for most of the battle and followed the same pattern in both sets, with the two swapping breaks early on then Zheng snaring the extra break in the seventh game both times.
In the first set, Zheng was able to keep up the pressure on Yastremska, blasting cross-court winners off both wings, and left the 23-year-old Ukrainian clutching her abdomen in pain.
After taking a medical timeout off court, Yastremska returned with Zheng holding in the next game.
The Ukrainian extended the set winning the following game with a clever drop shot, but she piled on the errors in the next game, handing Zheng the first set.
The 12th seed started off stronger in the second set, holding her first service game to love and then snatching an early break after a string of errors from Yastremska, but the Ukrainian broke straight back.
Zheng broke again in the seventh game, helped by a double fault from Yastremska and a shanked shot that flew long. Yastremska bravely held in the next game, with Zheng fluffing an easy smash, but the Chinese player snared the match with an unreturnable serve. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/tennis/chinas-zheng-books-maiden-grand-slam-final-berth-at-australian-open
| 2024-01-25T14:54:32Z
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MELBOURNE - Australian Open champion Aryna Sabalenka marched into her third Grand Slam final on Thursday and said her experience would help her to focus on the challenge and avoid feeling too emotional.
Defending champion Sabalenka returned to the Melbourne Park final with a battling 7-6(2) 6-4 win over fourth seed Coco Gauff just four months after losing to the American in the U.S. Open title clash.
The big-hitting second seed will take on a first-time finalist in 12th-seeded Chinese Zheng Qinwen and said she would view it as just another match.
"I'd say emotionally I'll be very ready to fight. Not going crazy," Sabalenka told reporters. "Because when you play your first final you get emotional and rush things sometimes.
"When you're third time in the finals, you're like, OK, it's a final. It's OK. It's just another match.
"You're able to separate yourself from that thing. Just focus on your game."
Sabalenka has the opportunity to become the first woman to claim back-to-back Australian Open trophies since Belarusian compatriot Victoria Azarenka in 2012 and 2013.
"I'm defending champion, but worst case, I'm like OK, I'm going to lose this tournament and it's less points to defend next year. Then that's it," she said.
"That's helping me to just stay focused and just try my best in each match without thinking about defending something."
Sabalenka, who also reached the semi-finals of Wimbledon and the French Open last year, said she was learning to embrace the pressure at the majors and it was paying off in Melbourne.
"I'm ... not ignoring the pressure. I'm just shifting my focus and it's working well so far," Sabalenka said.
"It's one more (match) to go and I'll do my best." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/tennis/sabalenka-not-distracted-by-emotions-on-return-to-australian-open-final
| 2024-01-25T14:54:44Z
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Alabama plans to carry out the first known judicial execution of a prisoner using asphyxiation with nitrogen gas on Thursday evening, a closely watched new method the state hopes to advance as a viable, simpler alternative to lethal injections.
Kenneth Smith, convicted of a 1988 murder-for-hire, is a rare prisoner who has already survived one execution attempt. In November 2022, Alabama officials aborted his execution by lethal injection after struggling for hours to insert an intravenous line's needle in his body.
Under the new protocol, which was announced in a heavily redacted form in September, officials will restrain Smith in a gurney and strap a commercial industrial-safety respirator mask to his face. A canister of pure nitrogen will be attached to the mask, intended to deprive him of inhaling any oxygen.
Alabama has called it the "the most painless and humane method of execution known to man," and says he should lose consciousness within a minute or two, and die soon after.
Opponents of capital punishment, including United Nations human-rights experts, have said the method amounts to experimenting on humans and could merely injure him without killing him, or lead to a torturous death.
Late on Wednesday, the 11th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals denied Smith's request to halt the execution to allow his legal challenges to the new protocol to proceed. Smith is expected to challenge that decision in the U.S. Supreme Court, whose conservative majority has generally voted in recent years against delaying scheduled executions.
On Wednesday, the Supreme Court denied Smith's application in a separate proceeding to halt the execution on the grounds that a second execution attempt of any kind, after painfully botching the first try, amounts to unconstitutional "cruel and unusual punishment."
Smith's lawyers fear that the mask will not properly seal against Smith's face, allowing oxygen to seep in, delaying or even averting the moment of unconsciousness but risking serious brain injury. They have proposed Alabama instead uses a hood pre-filled with pure nitrogen, to be plunged over his head, or else to use a firing squad.
Death penalty experts also say the state has not provided enough information about how it will mitigate the danger to execution officials and others of using an invisible, odorless gas inside the death chamber.
Rev. Jeff Hood, spiritual adviser to Smith, who will be at Smith's side, had to sign a form acknowledging the risk that the execution method poses to others.
As the waiver notes, nitrogen is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas that makes up about 78% of normal breathing air, so if the concentration of nitrogen is increased, displacing oxygen, there is a risk of unconsciousness and even death.
U.S. states that use capital punishment have found it increasingly difficult to get drugs for lethal injections, partly because pharmaceutical companies forbid supplying them to prisons to comply with a European trade ban on goods to be used in torture or executions.
Besides Alabama, lawmakers in Oklahoma and Mississippi have approved similar nitrogen-asphyxiation execution protocols in recent years, but have yet to put them into practice.
Maya Foa, the joint executive director of the international human-rights legal non-profit group Reprieve, said the new method is "the latest effort to obscure the violence of the state taking a human life."
"The state of Alabama has tortured Mr. Smith once, stabbing him with needles for hours, and by using him as a guinea pig for a dangerous, untested new method of execution, it is torturing him again," Foa said in a statement.
Smith was convicted of murdering Elizabeth Sennett, a preacher's wife, after he and an accomplice accepted a $1,000 fee from her husband to kill her, according to trial testimony.
Eleven of 12 jurors voted to sentence Smith to life in prison, but an Alabama judge overruled their recommendation under a law that has since been abolished as unconstitutional.
Some of Sennett's relatives have said they support the execution, scheduled for 6 p.m. at Alabama's Holman Correctional Facility, and that they planned to attend.
"Why should we have to suffer?" her son Charles Sennett told the WAAY-13 news channel this month. "And some of these people out there say, 'Well, he doesn't need to suffer like that.' Well, he didn't ask Mama how to suffer? They just did it. They stabbed her multiple times." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/alabama-prepares-to-carry-out-first-execution-by-nitrogen-asphyxiation
| 2024-01-25T14:54:54Z
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VATICAN CITY - A bishop appointed by Pope Francis was installed in a diocese in China on Jan 25, the Vatican said, in an apparent thaw in relations following friction when government-backed bishops were named without papal permission.
The Vatican said Reverend Taddeo Wang Yuessheng, 58, was ordained as bishop for the diocese of Zhengzhou, in the central province of Henan.
A statement said he was appointed by the Pope “in the framework” of a landmark 2018 accord between Beijing and the Vatican on the naming of bishops.
The tenuous accord, whose contents are still secret, gives the Pope the final say over the appointment of bishops after local consultations.
But twice in the past two years, the Vatican has accused China of violating the accord by making unilateral decisions on the appointment or transfer of bishops in China without consultation stipulated in the 2018 agreement.
Conservative Catholics have criticised the accord as a sellout to communist China, but the Vatican has defended it as an imperfect means to have some form of dialogue with the authorities for the good of all Chinese Catholics.
The 2018 pact was a bid to ease a longstanding divide across mainland China between an underground flock loyal to the Pope and a state-backed official church. For the first time since the 1950s, both sides recognised the Pope as supreme leader of the Catholic Church. It has been renewed twice since 2018.
Beijing has been following a policy of "Sinicisation" of religion, trying to root out foreign influences and enforce obedience to the Communist Party. There are an estimated 10 million to 12 million Catholics in China.
In November 2023, the state-backed bishop of Beijing, who took office before the 2018 accord, visited Hong Kong amid fears among some Catholics that Beijing wanted to tighten control over religious affairs in Hong Kong, which has about 600,000 Catholics.
It was the first trip by a mainland Chinese bishop since the former British colony was returned to China in 1997 and followed a landmark visit to the Chinese capital by his Hong Kong counterpart in April 2023. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/bishop-approved-by-pope-ordained-in-china-in-apparent-thaw-in-relations
| 2024-01-25T14:55:05Z
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The Gaza war has put renewed focus on a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, still seen by many countries as the path to peace even though the negotiating process has been moribund for years.
More than three months into the deadliest Israeli-Palestinian war yet, Washington has said there is no way to solve Israel's security issues and the challenge of rebuilding Gaza without a Palestinian state.
But Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced opposition to Palestinian sovereignty, saying he will not compromise on full Israeli security control west of Jordan and that this stands contrary to a Palestinian state.
Obstacles have long impeded the two-state solution, which envisages Israeli and Palestinian states alongside each other.
These include Jewish settlement in occupied land the Palestinians seek for a state, uncompromising positions on core issues including Jerusalem, violence, and deep mistrust.
WHAT ARE TWO-STATE SOLUTION'S ORIGINS?
It took shape as conflict brewed in British-ruled Palestine between Jews who had migrated to the area and Arabs. The Jews were seeking a national home as they fled persecution in Europe and cited biblical ties to the land.
In 1947, the United Nations agreed a plan partitioning Palestine into Arab and Jewish states with international rule over Jerusalem. Jewish leaders accepted the plan, which gave them 56% of the land. The Arab League rejected it.
The state of Israel was declared on May 14, 1948. A day later, five Arab states attacked. The war ended with Israel controlling 77% of the territory.
Some 700,000 Palestinians fled or were driven from their homes, ending up in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria as well as in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
In a 1967 war, Israel captured the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, from Jordan and Gaza from Egypt, securing control of all territory from the Mediterranean to the Jordan valley.
The Palestinians remain stateless, with most living under Israeli occupation or as refugees in neighbouring states. Some - mostly descendents of Palestinians who remained in Israel after its creation - have Israeli citizenship.
HAS A DEAL EVER BEEN CLOSE?
The two-state solution was the bedrock of the U.S.-backed peace process ushered in by the 1993 Oslo Accords, signed by Yasser Arafat of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
The accords led the PLO to recognise Israel's right to exist and renounce violence and to the creation of the Palestinian Authority (PA), which has limited self-autonomy in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.
Palestinians hoped this would be a step towards an independent state, with East Jerusalem as the capital.
The process was hit by rejection and violence on both sides.
Hamas, which opposed the process, carried out suicide attacks which killed scores of people.
Rabin was assassinated in 1995 by an Israeli ultra-nationalist opposed to his peace policies.
In 2000, U.S. President Bill Clinton brought Arafat and Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak to Camp David to clinch a deal, but the effort failed.
The fate of Jerusalem, deemed by Israel as its "eternal and indivisible" capital, was the main obstacle. The talks had also grappled with the borders of a Palestinian state, along with the fate of Palestinian refugees and Jews who had settled in the territories captured in 1967.
The conflict escalated as the Second Intifada, or uprising, began. U.S. administrations sought to revive peace-making - to no avail.
WHAT MIGHT PALESTINE LOOK LIKE?
Advocates of the two-state solution have envisaged a Palestine in the Gaza Strip and West Bank linked by a corridor through Israel.
Two decades ago, details of how it might work were set out in a blueprint by former Israeli and Palestinian negotiators.
Known as The Geneva Accord, its principles include recognition of Jerusalem's Jewish neighbourhoods as the Israeli capital, and recognition of its Arab neighbourhoods as the Palestinian capital, and a demilitarised Palestinian state.
Israel would annex big settlements and cede other land in a swap, and resettle Jewish settlers in Palestinian sovereign territory outside there.
A multinational force working alongside Palestinian security forces would monitor Palestine's border crossings to Jordan and Egypt, as well as air and sea ports.
U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi have both mentioned the idea of a demilitarised Palestinian state - an idea Abbas has never publicly rejected or accepted but which Hamas rejects.
HOW BIG ARE THE OBSTACLES?
As conflict rages, it seems harder than ever to imagine such a future. The obstacles have grown with time.
While Israel withdrew settlers and soldiers from Gaza in 2005, Jewish settlements expanded in the rest of the area where the Palestinians seek statehood. Palestinians say this undermines the prospects of a viable state.
The Israeli organisation Peace Now said in September the number had grown from 250,000 in the West Bank and East Jerusalem in 1993, to 695,000 three decades later.
During the Second Intifada Israel also constructed what it described as a barrier to stop Palestinian attacks. Palestinians call it a land grab.
The PA led by President Mahmoud Abbas administers islands of West Bank land enveloped by a zone of Israeli control comprising 60% of the territory, including the Jordanian border and the settlements - arrangements set out in the Oslo Accords.
Politics has added to the complications.
Netanyahu's government is the most right-wing in Israeli history and includes religious nationalists who draw support from settlers. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said last year there was no such thing as a Palestinian people.
Hamas gained political and military strength, winning elections in 2006 and a year later drove forces loyal to Abbas out of Gaza, politically fragmenting the Palestinians.
Hamas' 1988 founding charter calls for Israel's destruction and it refuses to recognize Israel. Hamas leaders have at times offered a long-term truce in return for a viable Palestinian state on all territory occupied by Israel in 1967.
Israel regards this as a ruse.
In 2017, a document issued by Hamas said it agreed to a transitional Palestinian state within frontiers pre-dating the 1967 war, although it still opposed recognizing Israel's right to exist or ceding any Palestinian rights.
IS THERE A WAY FORWARD?
Gaza's fate is the immediate question.
Israel aims to annihilate Hamas and says it will not agree to any deal that leaves it in power. Netanyahu has said Gaza must be demilitarized and under Israel's full security control.
He has said he does not want Israel to govern Gaza or re-establish settlements there.
Hamas says it expects to survive and has said any arrangements for Gaza that exclude it are an illusion. Hamas says it is ready for talks with Abbas's Fatah faction to form a unity government. Such talks have previously failed.
Washington, which deems Hamas a terrorist group, has said it wants to see governance of Gaza and the West Bank reconnected under a revitalized PA.
Biden on Jan. 19 said he spoke to Netanyahu about possible solutions for creating an independent Palestinian state.
Netanyahu has said he will continue to insist on full Israeli security control west of the Jordan river - a position he said had prevented the establishment of a Palestinian state that would have been "an existential danger to Israel".
In his 2022 autobiography, Netanyahu set out other ideas at odds with Palestinian aspirations, including an airport for Palestinians that "could be located in Jordan or elsewhere".
He called for a change of approach from "territorial continuity" in Palestinian areas to "transportational continuity" with "docks, train links, overpasses and underpasses" enabling Palestinian freedom of movement.
A spokesperson for Abbas said Netanyahu's recent statements showed Israel was not "interested in peace and stability". Hamas official Osama Hamdan said on Jan. 22 Palestinians would not accept anything less than a sovereign state with Jerusalem the capital.
IS THERE AN ALTERNATIVE?
As the two-state solution has floundered, talk of a one-state solution has risen. Some Palestinians, convinced Israel will never cede them sovereignty, have advocated switching to a struggle for rights within a single country spanning Israel and the land it occupied in 1967.
Critics say it is unrealistic, noting the main Palestinian factions do not back it and Israel would never accept an idea that could jeopardise its existence as a Jewish state.
U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres, in a Jan. 23 speech, said the two-state solution remained the only way to address the aspirations of Israelis and Palestinians. He criticised "clear and repeated rejection of the two-state solution at the highest levels of the Israeli government".
"This refusal, and the denial of the right to statehood to the Palestinian people, would indefinitely prolong a conflict that has become a major threat to global peace and security." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/explainer-what-is-the-two-state-solution-to-the-israel-palestinian-conflict
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ASTANA — As January bids farewell, the Kazakh capital buzzes with diverse events, offering residents and visitors a cultural and entertaining weekend. From festivals and art exhibitions to sports competitions and musical performances, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Open Festival of Speech Arts OratorFest on Jan. 27
This weekend kicks off with the OratorFest festival which will feature three shifts, with the participation of eight experienced coaches and four beginner trainers who will share their discoveries in the field of soft skills development. At the festival, there will be workshops on topics such as biohacking, freestyle rap, emotional intelligence, improvisation on stage, charisma, etc.
Participation is free after the registration. 53, Kabanbay Batyr Ave.
Address: Nazarbayev University; 53, Kabanbay Ave.
The Great Women of the World exhibition on Jan. 27 – Feb. 19.
The Great Women of the World exhibition opened at the Has Sanat Art Gallery on Jan. 23. It features paintings by Kazakh artists like Zhanyzak Mussapir, Abdigali Bayandin, Aitkul Tasmagambetova and more.
Video credit: The Astana Times.
The exhibition runs until Feb. 19 and showcases artworks dedicated to notable women in Kazakh history, including Aliya Modagulova, Dina Nurpeisova, Domalaq Ana and others. Additionally, the exhibition features portraits of historical figures from Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and Türkiye.
Address: Has Sanat Art Gallery; 14D, Konayev Street.
The World Indoor Tour Gold athletics competition on Jan. 27
For sports enthusiasts, this weekend Astana offers the indoor athletics competition, the World Indoor Tour Gold series, known as Astana Indoor Meet for Amin Tuyakov Prizes for the first time.
The World Indoor Tour Gold is equivalent to the well-known Diamond League series and is held annually, bringing together the world’s top athletes.
Address: Qazaqstan Track and Field Arena; 59, Turan Ave. Tickets are available here.
“Beethoven – Immortality – Love” ballet on Jan. 27-28
The ballet “Beethoven – Immortality – Love” depicts the life and fate of the great German composer. The libretto and choreography for the performance are crafted by Raimondo Rebeck, renowned for his works such as the one-act ballet “How long is Now?” and “Cinderella,” both successfully presented on the theater stage.
The musical foundation for this ballet is formed by Beethoven’s compositions, including the famous Ninth Symphony featuring a choir. Additionally, the ballet incorporates music from Bach, Haydn, Mozart and contemporary composer Dirk Haubrich.
Venue: Astana Opers; 1, Konayev Street. Tickets are available here.
“Aldar Kose” musical on Jan. 27-28
The musical “Aldar Kose” promises an extraordinary experience with incredible costumes, meticulously designed sets, brilliant performances by talented and professional actors, enchanting songs and dynamic dances. The artistic director and director of Astana Musical, Eslam Nurtazin, serves as the director of the production, with composers Erbol Narimanuly and Aqzhol Omirzaqov contributing to the musical score.
Video credit: Qazaqconcert.
The story of Kazakh folklore’s favorite character Aldar Kose captivates not only children but also adults. The musical aims to create a portrayal of a national hero, promote moral and spiritual values and encapsulate folk wisdom. The storyline is based on a vivid, interesting and instructive tale from Kazakh folklore. The main character, Aldar Kose, defended the poor from evil and greedy tyrants. Nimble, swift Aldar Kose maneuvered through challenging situations using various clever methods.
Venue: Qazaqstan Central Concert Hall; 10/1, Mangilik El Ave. Tickets are available here.
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| 2024-01-25T16:20:59Z
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ASTANA – Kazakh Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Murat Nurtleu arrived on an official visit to Tajikistan on Jan. 24, reported the Foreign Ministry’s press service.
On Jan. 25, Nurtleu began his official visit to Dushanbe by participating in the wreath-laying ceremony at the monument to the outstanding state and political figure of Tajikistan Ismoil Somoni on the capital square.
During the talks with Nurtleu, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon emphasized the efficient interaction between the two countries in a bilateral format and within the international regional organizations.
Nurtleu, in turn, noted the commitment and sincere intention to deepen the alliance with brotherly Tajikistan.
The sides outlined productive cooperation in trade, energy, digitalization, transport and logistics, agriculture and water resources and noted prospects for a comprehensive economic and investment interaction expansion. Mutual trade turnover in recent years has consistently exceeded $1 billion.
Strengthening interregional cooperation, development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian ties and the implementation of joint projects in various fields were also addressed at the meeting.
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| 2024-01-25T16:21:05Z
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ASTANA – In recent years, Kazakhstan has showcased significant investment potential attributed to its strategic location, favorable business environment, effective investor rights protection, diverse incentives, political stability, and abundant resource base, reported Kazpravda.kz.
According to Vice Minister of National Economy Bauyrzhan Kudaibergenov, the gradual adoption of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) standards and joining the Committee on Investments underlines Kazakhstan’s commitment to providing a fair and transparent environment for international investments.
Strong investment performance
After gaining its independence, Kazakhstan signed the multilateral (the Eurasian Economic Union) and 50 bilateral intergovernmental agreements on the encouragement and protection of mutual investment.
The country has attracted over $400 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI), leading among post-Soviet and landlocked nations, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
For the first half of the last year, the gross FDI inflow reached $13.3 billion, with a net inflow of $4.1 billion, marking an 87% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
Investments in fixed capital for the past 11 months grew by 14.6%, reaching 15.2 trillion tenge ($34.1 billion).
Fitch and Standard & Poor’s international rating agencies affirmed Kazakhstan’s sovereign credit rating as stable in November 2023, while Moody’s upgraded the outlook to positive, confirming the state’s investment-grade rating.
“This indicates the country’s strong positions in complex rating models, particularly in fiscal stability and macroeconomic resilience,” said Kudaibergenov.
In the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, Kazakhstan has risen by six points compared to the 2022 ranking, securing the 37th position out of 64 countries. Factors such as foreign direct investment, business efficiency, and business legislation contributed to this achievement.
Kudaibergenov highlighted that Kazakhstan possesses a robust and continually evolving investment legislative framework, aligning with global standards and emphasizing the creation of a strong and competitive business environment.
Government support measures
Kudaibergenov emphasized that both foreign and domestic investors enjoy equal conditions, with the registration of businesses in Kazakhstan now possible remotely.
Substantial legislative revisions last year abolished over 10,000 unnecessary business requirements, aiming to reduce entrepreneur inspections by half from 2024.
Visa-free regimes for investors from 83 countries facilitate business operations, fostering unhindered development and knowledge exchange.
Various government support measures, including customs duty exemptions, tax incentives, and in-kind grants, are provided under investment legislation.
Kudaibergenov noted that large investors signing investment agreements for projects around $50 million in priority sectors have special conditions and tax exemptions outlined.
“Six agreements were signed last year, covering renewable energy, green hydrogen production, modern irrigation systems, agricultural yield management, alloy production, lightweight metal packaging materials, broiler meat production, and railway locomotive manufacturing,” he said.
To support major taxpayers, an investment tax credit agreement allows a 100% reduction in tax payments, with staged payments and a deferred payment period of up to three years. This period, free of corporate income tax and property tax, can be utilized to stabilize financial positions and business development.
Since 2022, the investment commitment agreement guarantees tax legislative stability for ten years in exchange for investments exceeding approximately $500 million. Six such agreements have been signed for projects related to solid minerals extraction and/or processing.
The enhanced model contract grants a 20-year tax exemption for complex projects beginning from the export phase. Within this, it facilitates dispute resolution through arbitration, allowing the subsoil user to choose either outside Kazakhstan or within the territory of the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). Currently, three similar contracts have been concluded.
“All these mechanisms will ensure an influx of investments and create additional employment opportunities. When attracting investments, particularly foreign ones, a broader perspective is necessary. Investments encompass not only capital but also bring in new technologies, skills, expertise, training, and other advantages. Investors will always seek places to deploy their funds, and Kazakhstan must be ready to offer favorable conditions,” said Kudaibergenov.
Broadening prospects for growth
In his opinion, the AIFC offers unprecedented business conditions, providing an alternative legal jurisdiction based on common law. Tax holidays, flexible labor rules, and permission for transactions in any currency are established on this financial platform.
To align with new trends, including Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance (ESG) standards, the country adopted the Investment Policy Concept until 2026, which aims to raise the share of investments in fixed capital to 25.1% of gross domestic product by 2026.
The government is taking additional measures to enhance investment activity, including the implementation of a national pool consisting of 1,011 projects worth 32.4 trillion tenge ($72.7 billion) and the formation of a list of around 15 major projects for the development of export-oriented and import-substituting deep processing clusters.
Efforts continue to relocate foreign companies, with 39 structures successfully moving. To expedite investment project implementation, authorities are developing a National Digital Investment Platform, ensuring the integration of all government bodies into a unified online system for attracting, implementing, and monitoring investment projects.
A fast track system, known as a green corridor, will streamline projects from enterprise registration and permit issuance to the launch of industrial production.
The article was originally published on Kazpravda.kz
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/kazakh-government-provides-stable-business-environment-for-attracting-investments-says-official/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:11Z
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ASTANA – Almaty Mayor Yerbolat Dossayev introduced the work of the city’s Situational Center, an automated information-analytical system, to President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on Jan. 25, reported Akorda press service.
According to Dossayev, the center serves as an effective tool for making quality decisions based on Big Data analysis and the implementation of the Open Data concept.
The center allows for the collection and analysis of data on all aspects of the city’s life, informing the population, and receiving feedback from residents. The center consists of 53 modules covering all sectors. Data collection is carried out by more than 50 organizations, as well as state and city information systems including the Bureau of National Statistics, Criminal Offenses Map, iKomek 109 contact center, unified video monitoring system, Sergek traffic platform, Onay transport app, metroalmaty.kz subway website, and other facilities.
In 2023, comprehensive security systems were introduced in all public schools and kindergartens of Almaty. The system includes digital surveillance cameras, panic buttons, fire safety systems, and special turnstiles with Face ID.
“Artificial intelligence should serve to improve the well-being of citizens, and notably, residents of Almaty. I support your plans to introduce artificial intelligence tools. Also, we need to pay special attention to the transport situation in the city, which remains a pressing problem. This is where artificial intelligence has a role to play. And, of course, security must come first,” said the President.
Dossayev also reported on the development of the city’s transport system. Plans include increasing the length of roads, building transport interchanges, and opening new metro stations.
Tokayev also visited the Almaty city akimat (administration) building, which was restored after part of the building burned down during the January Events 2022.
During the reconstruction, builders used modern materials and technologies, which made the building more energy efficient. Given the historical significance of the building, it was decided to preserve its original architectural appearance. The marble finishing of the facades has been restored, and the internal decorative elements, made of brass and natural stones, have been recreated in their original form.
As of today, three pavilions have been fully restored, which have housed 14 departments and the city administration since October last year. Work is currently ongoing in the fourth pavilion, which suffered the most from the fire. All construction works are planned to be completed by the end of February.
The government allocated 31 billion tenge ($66.7 million) to restore administrative and commercial facilities destroyed during the January riots.
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| 2024-01-25T16:21:18Z
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ASTANA – Deputies of the Senate, the upper house of the Kazakh Parliament, approved the law on ratifying the agreement between the governments of Kazakhstan and Qatar on the mutual promotion and protection of investments on Jan. 25, reported Kazinform.
According to Senate deputy Andrei Lukin, national companies and the two countries’ private sectors have established constructive ties, working on promising projects in various sectors of the economy worth $1.356 billion.
“Given significant prospects for the development of bilateral relations and to protect and support investors of both countries, the both governments concluded an agreement in October 2022 in Astana. The document aims to intensify economic cooperation between the parties by creating favorable conditions for investment activities,” said Lukin.
The agreement is based on standard provisions of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the principles of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the recommendations of the World Bank.
The law is supposed to improve the investment climate and contribute to developing mutually beneficial trade and economic cooperation between countries.
In January-October last year, the trade turnover between Kazakhstan and Qatar reached $9.3 million, which is 2.8 times higher than the previous year, according to the Kazakh Foreign Ministry. At the end of 2022, the volume of Qatari investments in the Kazakh economy achieved a threefold increase.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/kazakh-senate-approves-law-on-investment-cooperation-with-qatar/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:25Z
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ASTANA – The representatives of Iran, Russia and Türkiye, as guarantors of the Astana Format, emphasized the need to secure unhindered humanitarian aid to Syria, join efforts to combat terrorism and encourage mutual release of detainees at the 21st International Meeting on Syria within the Astana Process on Jan. 25.
The delegations of Iran, Russia, Türkiye, the Syrian government, the Syrian opposition, as well as the United Nations (UN), the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, the International Committee of the Red Cross, Iraq, Jordan and Lebanon participated in a two-day event that concluded with the adoption of the joint statement by representatives of Iran, Russia and Türkiye.
“Due to the Astana process, there is every reason to say that the situation in Syria has stabilized and is on the verge of recovery. Difficult problems that seemed intractable are being effectively resolved thanks to the massive efforts of the guarantor countries and the constant support of the United Nations,” said Kazakh Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alibek Bakayev at the plenary session.
Since January 2017, Kazakhstan has hosted 19 out of 21 international meetings on Syria in the Astana format.
“The negotiations in Kazakhstan have led to the establishment of de-escalation zones, an end to the bloodshed among conflicting parties and a decrease in the scale of human casualties. These achievements represent the initial goals of the Astana process in Syria,” added Bakayev.
He emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution.
“We firmly believe that the only way to bring an end to the tragic period in Syrian history is through a politico-diplomatic approach by the international community, in accordance with the UN Charter and relevant UN Security Council resolutions,” said Bakayev.
The joint statement by representatives of Iran, Russia and Türkiye featured 20 resolutions and emphasized the leading role of the Astana Process in “promoting the lasting settlement of the Syrian crisis.”
One of the statement’s key points concerned the negative impact of the escalation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict on the situation in the Syrian Arab Republic.
The sides expressed “deep concern over the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and stressed the need to end Israeli brutal onslaught against the Palestinians and send humanitarian aid to Gaza.”
The statement also covers demands such as the need to ensure the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid to Syria, to work together to combat terrorism and to stand against separatist agendas aimed at undermining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria and to continue operations on the mutual release of detainees or abductees.
Head of the Syrian government delegation and Vice Minister of the Foreign Affairs of the Syrian Arab Republic, Bassam Sabbagh, highlighted the importance of humanitarian aid and the release of detainees.
“We discussed some of the efforts from the Syrian part closely connected with the security and by the settlement of the situation to ensure all the humanitarian aid supplies [to be delivered] for people in order to make people’s spirits stronger. In that sense, I would like to say that the Syrian Republic supports all the agreements that are supported by the UN in order to provide humanitarian aid supplies to Syria for the next six months and to provide humanitarian aid supplies to the regions that suffered from earthquakes last year,” said Sabbagh.
“As for the return of the refugees to their homeland, the government of Syria considers this a vital issue. We’re having some meetings with the representatives of the UN, with the High Commissioner of the UN, in order to return all the refugees to their homelands. We already achieved some progress in that direction,” added Sabbagh.
The head of the Syrian armed opposition Ahmed Toma emphasized the positive impact of peacekeeping efforts within the Idlib de-escalation zone.
“I think that we achieved some results and understanding between the delegations about the settlements and about the peacekeeping in Idlib. We also hope that in the near future in Idlib, we will solve all the issues without any violations and forces of the army,” said Toma.
He also expressed concern about people in detention, stating that settling that issue with the Syrian government will “lead to the democratic decision of our republic and it will make our community and country democratic.”
Head of the Iranian delegation, Iranian foreign minister’s senior advisor for special political affairs Ali Asghar Khaji reiterated that any political process in Syria must respect the nation’s sovereignty.
“Once again, we reaffirmed the fact that any political process in Syria should ensure and respect Syrian sovereignty and territorial integrity. And we emphasize the political resolution of the Syrian crisis. Everybody admitted that based on our experience with Syrian problems, there is only a political solution and there is no military solution,” said Khaji.
The sides agreed for the next meeting, which will take place in the second half of 2024 in Astana.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/participants-of-astana-process-call-for-humanitarian-aid-counter-terrorism-cooperation-in-syria/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:31Z
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ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired a meeting on seismic safety on Jan. 25 in Almaty, attended by the Executive Office of the President, Security Council, government members, mayors and regional emergency department heads, reported the Akorda press service.
The President urged for comprehensive awareness campaigns and regular training in schools and government agencies.
Tokayev noted that a third of the country’s territory is susceptible to earthquakes. Over the past five years, seismological stations have recorded more than 45,000 cases of earthquakes, most of which are of low magnitude.
“Frankly speaking, during the emergency situation in Almaty, the relevant authorities were not fully prepared for immediate measures. Citizens were frightened, not knowing how to behave. However, the main goal of this meeting is not to criticize, but to make concrete decisions,” Tokayev said.
Warning system
The President’s speech focused on the readiness of the infrastructure for population evacuation and the warning system.
“During a strong earthquake, people are not at all concerned about information on its physical characteristics and the location of the epicenter. They had already felt the power of the elements. At such a moment, it is more important to provide citizens with information on how to proceed: whether it is safe to return to their homes or where to get help. Therefore, the warning system needs to be reconsidered and made more oriented towards practical needs,” he said.
Tokayev criticized the poor material and technical equipment of the emergency prevention and response system. This applies both to the seismic monitoring network and to providing rescuers with modern devices, machinery and equipment.
“According to experts’ calculations, the installation of an additional 285 seismic stations is required throughout the country. In the event of a devastating earthquake, the availability and accessibility of state material reserves will be of great importance. The ability to quickly restore transport links and organize medical care will play a decisive role,” said the President emphasizing the importance of drawing lessons from the recent earthquake and urging meeting participants to address any shortcomings collaboratively.
Emergency assistance
Tokayev said that Almaty and other regions should be prepared for earthquakes and provided with the necessary infrastructure.
“Special gathering places and temporary shelters for residents should be checked. It is also necessary to adequately organize work to resettle citizens to safe places, provide emergency assistance to victims, and open mobile treatment centers. In addition, sufficient material reserves should be created. Another important thing is to ensure the prompt arrival of rescue services from other regions in the case of a disaster,” he said.
Tokayev emphasized the need to strengthen the seismic resistance of buildings and structures and instructed the government and Almaty akimat to test this question.
Population awareness
“It is necessary to increase the population’s preparedness for emergency situations, not on paper, but in practice. The main task is to ensure the safety of citizens. This is a matter of national security. In emergencies, the country requires a quick response and coordinated work of all relevant structures,” he noted.
Tokayev urged the Ministry of Emergency Situations to rethink its activities critically and addressed the residents of Almaty.
“Please, stay calm and keep prudence, do not panic, do not follow the lead of provocateurs and irresponsible individuals who deliberately spread rumors and misinformation. Real Almaty residents have always been distinguished by prudence. Be sure that the country’s leadership will do everything possible to ensure the safety of all Almaty residents. The aspirations of Almaty residents will be the focus of our attention constantly. Be sure of this,” Tokayev said.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/president-tokayev-addresses-almaty-seismic-safety-urges-residents-to-stay-calm/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:38Z
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ASTANA – President of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev visited the construction site of the Balkash two reservoirs with clean drinking water, each 3,000 cubic meters (m3), as well as a pumping station on Jan. 25, reported the Akorda press service.
This year, Almaty akimat (city administration) plans to build 142 kilometers and modernize 48 kilometers of water supply networks. This will make it possible to provide access to the central water supply to 99.6% of residents by the end of the year and reduce the level of deterioration of networks to 53.8%.
The President noted that providing water supply to Almaty is a priority task of national importance.
“Kazakhstan is a water-scarce country. We need a countrywide program to provide drinking water. Drinking water should not be used for watering gardens. Water-saving technologies must be used, and a culture of careful water consumption must be introduced. Of course, we need to look for new underground sources of water. Residents of Almaty often appeal to me with complaints about lack of water. Therefore, there must be comprehensive, systematic work,” the President said.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/president-tokayev-tours-water-supply-facilities-in-almaty-outlines-need-for-conscious-use-of-water/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:44Z
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ASTANA – The Samruk Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund and the BAE Systems (Kazakhstan) Limited, shareholders of Air Astana, plan to sell their shares at the upcoming initial public offering (IPO) on the London Stock Exchange, Astana International Exchange (AIX), and Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE), said Managing Director for Development and Privatization of Samruk Kazyna Saltanat Satzhan, reported Kazinform on Jan. 24.
According to Satzhan, Air Astana plans to raise $120 million and use funds for the company’s development.
“I would like to note that there are very strict regulatory listing rules under which all information can be disclosed, so that all investors have equally accessible information. … The exact structure of the IPO will be determined after an appropriate assessment,” said Satzhan.
Air Astana plans to start its IPO roadshow on Jan. 29.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/samruk-kazyna-bae-systems-to-sell-their-shares-in-air-astana-ipo/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:51Z
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ASTANA — Leading schools in Uzbekistan are set to integrate cutting-edge programming and robotics innovations from the Kazakh startup CodiPlay, the startup’s press service reported on Jan. 25.
The initiative, supported by Inha University of Korea, recently gained momentum as CodiPlay hosted an insightful presentation in Tashkent for 15 prominent schools nationwide.
Zhanadil Taldybaev, founder and CEO of CodiPlay, expressed his enthusiasm about the growing interest from Uzbekistan’s schools.
“CodiPlay is actively expanding its presence in the educational sector of Uzbekistan and holds presentations in local schools by special invitation. We are grateful for the interest from schools in Uzbekistan and are ready to cooperate in creating educational programs that contribute to the development of students and preparation for the country’s high-tech future,” he said.
The event, a collaborative effort between CodiPlay and Inha University, comprised a comprehensive program that catered to directors, computer science teachers, and eager schoolchildren. The immersive experience included a thought-provoking lecture for school principals, a hands-on educator workshop, and an exciting student competition.
CodiPlay’s curriculum was dissected during the principal-focused lecture, providing a detailed exploration of its features and methodologies. The subsequent Q&A session fostered discussions on strategies for seamlessly implementing the program into the educational framework of Uzbekistan’s top schools. This proactive engagement highlighted a keen interest in integrating forward-thinking educational solutions into the nation’s learning ecosystem.
The workshop, tailored for computer science teachers, showcased the CodiTeach platform, offering tools for assessing student performance and monitoring the educational process. This innovative platform is set to enhance the quality of learning by providing valuable insights and support for educators.
A highlight of the event was a spirited competition orchestrated by the CodiPlay team, where 36 students from different schools showcased their prowess by assembling two unique projects out of 56 possible IoT projects using CodiKit kits. Tasks included the time-bound assembly of a barrier and an intelligent basket, testing the participant’s ability to work swiftly and efficiently under pressure. All participants received certificates, and six standout students were rewarded with memorable gifts and prize funds.
The event also benefited from the active involvement of South Korean partners of CodiPlay, who presented the latest global trends in IT education, adding a global perspective to the local educational landscape.
CodiPlay specializes in teaching programming via smartphones, offering a comprehensive system that includes the CodiPlay application, CodiKit robotics kits, and the CodiTeach web platform. Currently, schools in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Qatar, Azerbaijan, and Indonesia are connected to the system, marking a significant stride in the global adoption of modern educational solutions.
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https://astanatimes.com/2024/01/uzbekistans-top-schools-embrace-kazakh-startup-codiplays-innovations/
| 2024-01-25T16:21:58Z
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PETALING JAYA - Former Malaysian finance minister Daim Zainuddin is set to be charged in court next week, said Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Azam Baki on Jan 25.
The head of the anti-graft agency said the charge would come after the commission was informed that Tun Daim had been discharged from hospital on Jan 25.
“Currently, the investigation officer is still deliberating on the charge against him at court,” Mr Azam said, as quoted by news site Sinar Harian.
Earlier, the MACC said it had opened an investigation paper in February 2023 based on information from the Pandora Papers – documents leaked in 2021 that revealed offshore assets held by politicians and public figures worldwide.
As part of the investigation, a notice issued on June 7 under the MACC Act was sent to Mr Daim, who served as finance minister twice between 1984 and 2001.
It said it had requisitioned that a written and sworn statement be made by him to declare all his assets, whether inside or outside the country, within 30 days from the date the notice was issued.
The MACC said Mr Daim had applied for five extensions, which were granted on July 6, Aug 10, Sept 11, Oct 11 and Nov 14 in 2023.
The anti-graft agency issued a notice of seizure on Ilham Tower, owned by his family, on Dec 18.
Mr Daim, 85, is a close ally of former two-time prime minister Mahathir Mohamad.
On Jan 23, Mr Daim’s wife Na’imah Abdul Khalid claimed trial at a Kuala Lumpur court for failing to declare her assets to graft investigators.
She pleaded not guilty, and directed a message to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, saying “power is brief and there is always a reckoning for those who abuse it”. Datuk Seri Anwar has been accused of using the MACC investigation to go after his political foes.
Separately, Malaysia’s top cop has denied an accusation by Tun Dr Mahathir that he was treated like a criminal during questioning by the police a few days ago.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, said the police were just carrying out their duties as part of their investigations into remarks made by the former premier about the Indian and Chinese communities in Malaysia.
“We will continue with the investigation. This is a police investigation; we need to complete it because if we don’t, then we would be seen as biased,” said Mr Razarudin on Jan 24, adding that the police would need three to four days to complete their investigation paper on Dr Mahathir before handing it over to the Attorney-General’s Chambers.
Dr Mahathir had on Jan 23 claimed he was being treated like a common criminal for voicing his opinion.
In an interview with Indian-based channel Thanthi TV, Dr Mahathir had allegedly questioned the loyalties of the Indian and Chinese communities to the country.
He said the communities did not speak the local language but enrolled their children in their own schools, and spoke their own language, such as Tamil, at home. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/ex-malaysia-finance-minister-daim-to-be-charged-by-anti-graft-agency-next-week
| 2024-01-25T16:24:55Z
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LONDON - Britain’s biggest domestic bank Lloyds is cutting around 1,600 roles across its branch network, a spokesperson for the lender said on Jan 25, as part of an overhaul to provide more services online.
The cuts are part of a renewed push by banks to axe costs as tough economic conditions and pressure on margins from competition and peaking rates prompt them to tighten their belts, despite a year of robust profits for the industry.
Rival Barclays also slashed thousands of jobs in 2023, with the majority falling in the bank’s back office support unit, Reuters first reported in November.
As part of its revamp, Lloyds also plans to create 830 roles in an expanded “relationship growth” team to understand customers’ financial goals and provide services across branches, video meetings and over the phone, the Lloyds spokesperson said.
The net result of the changes will be a loss of about 769 roles, the spokesperson said.
The process is separate to a shake-up of mainly back office roles reported in November, the spokesperson said, which put around 2,500 jobs at risk.
In a post on social media platform X, employee union Accord said the move would represent significant changes to ways of working for its members.
“As more customers choose to manage their day-to-day banking online, it’s important our people are available when it matters most,” the Lloyds spokesperson said.
The spokesperson added there would be no role reductions for the “most junior” positions, and voluntary redundancy was also being offered in some situations.
News of the fresh round of restructuring comes amid rising investor concerns Lloyds may have to shell out hundreds of millions of pounds to compensate customers who might have overpaid for motor finance between 2007 and 2021.
Regulator the Financial Conduct Authority launched a review into the market earlier this month, which analysts at RBC estimated in a note on Jan 25 could ultimately cost Lloyds – a big player in the market through its subsidiary Black Horse – as much as £2 billion (S$3.41 billion).
Analysts at Jefferies estimated a potential £1.8 billion bill for Lloyds, in a separate note on Jan 24.
A Black Horse spokesperson said: “We are currently reviewing the FOS decision and will work collaboratively with the FCA on their upcoming review.” REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/banking/lloyds-to-cut-around-1600-branch-jobs-in-digital-switch
| 2024-01-25T16:25:05Z
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BENGALURU - Business Insider is set to lay off around 8 per cent of its staff, CEO Barbara Peng said in a post on the company’s website on Jan 25.
The layoffs follow similar moves across the tech industry including at companies such as Alphabet, eBay and Amazon.com as they look to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
The company will offer the outgoing employees a minimum of 13 weeks pay and medical coverage through May. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/business-insider-to-lay-off-around-8-of-its-workforce
| 2024-01-25T16:25:16Z
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WASHINGTON – The United States economy grew faster than expected in the fourth quarter amid strong consumer spending, defying dire predictions of a recession in 2023 after the Federal Reserve aggressively raised interest rates, with growth for the full year coming in at 2.5 per cent.
Gross domestic product in the last quarter increased at a 3.3 per cent annualised rate, the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis said on Jan 25 in its advance estimate of fourth-quarter GDP.
The economy grew at a 4.9 per cent pace in the third quarter.
Economists polled by Reuters had forecast GDP advancing at a 2 per cent rate. Estimates ranged from a 0.8 per cent rate to a 2.8 per cent pace.
The US economy is expanding at a pace above what Fed officials regard as the non-inflationary growth rate of around 1.8 per cent.
Growth in 2023 accelerated from 1.9 per cent in 2022.
The US economy has stunned captains of industry, and some economists who had been calling for a downturn since mid-2022. Part of the economy’s stamina reflects labour market resilience, marked by low layoffs and strong wage gains, which are underpinning consumer spending.
The Labour Department, in a separate report on Jan 25, said initial claims for state unemployment benefits increased 25,000 to a seasonally adjusted 214,000 for the week ended Jan 20. Economists had forecast 200,000 claims in the latest week.
Increased government spending, as well as near-zero interest rates during the Covid-19 pandemic, which allowed some corporations and households to lock in low rates, have also helped stave off a recession.
Economists largely based their gloomy forecasts on the rapid pace at which the US central bank was raising rates to dampen demand. Most have walked back their recession calls and now expect slow growth in 2024.
The Fed, at its meeting next week, is expected to keep its policy rate unchanged at the current 5.25 to 5.5 per cent range.
With the GDP report also showing inflation pressures subsiding in the last quarter, the central bank is widely anticipated to start cutting rates sometime in the first half of 2024.
Since March 2022, the Fed has raised its benchmark overnight rate by 525 basis points. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/us-fourth-quarter-growth-handily-beats-expectations-on-strong-consumer-spending
| 2024-01-25T16:25:26Z
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BENGALURU - Microsoft is cutting around 1,900 jobs at Activision Blizzard and Xbox this week, news website The Verge reported on Jan 25, citing an internal memo from the head of the company’s gaming division.
The cuts represent around 8 per cent of the overall Microsoft Gaming division, with most of the layoffs set to happen at recently acquired videogame publisher Activision Blizzard.
Microsoft did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.
The news follows job cuts at several other big firms including Alphabet, eBay and Amazon.com, which have signalled that the widespread pruning seen across the tech industry last year will continue in 2024.
Microsoft closed its US$69 billion (S$92.4 billion) deal for Activision Blizzard in October, boosting its heft in the video gaming market with best-selling titles, including Call Of Duty, to better compete with industry leader Sony. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/microsoft-lays-off-1900-activision-blizzard-xbox-staff-report
| 2024-01-25T16:25:36Z
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TEL AVIV - An Israeli actor in the hit Netflix television series Fauda vowed on Jan 25 to return to the screen after he was wounded while fighting Hamas militants in Gaza.
Idan Amedi was among a group of soldiers who were seriously wounded in a blast in the Palestinian territory where he was deployed after the war between Israel and Hamas broke out on Oct 7.
“It’s not a scene from Fauda, it’s real life,” Amedi, dressed in military fatigues, said in a video posted on social media on Oct 12 amid a call-up of more than 300,000 reservists in Israel.
Fauda, which means “chaos” in Arabic, has won Netflix fans worldwide for its gritty take on the exploits of an undercover Israeli unit that fights Palestinian militants.
“I will return to create, I will return to singing, I will return to acting,” Amedi told reporters on Jan 25 after he was released from hospital near Tel Aviv.
He spent two weeks in Gaza working to clear a network of Hamas tunnels, he said.
On Jan 8, he was seriously wounded in an explosion in which six soldiers were killed, he said.
When he arrived at the hospital, Amedi said he was “unrecognisable” with doctors giving him a John Doe tag.
But he said his experience had not deterred him from returning to Gaza.
“If God gives me enough power, I will also go back to fight for my country,” he said.
The war in Gaza erupted after Hamas militants staged an unprecedented attack inside Israel on Oct 7 that resulted in the deaths of around 1,140 people in Israel, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally of official Israeli figures.
Israel’s relentless military campaign in Gaza since then has left at least 25,700 people dead, about 70 per cent of them women and children, according to the Hamas government’s health ministry. AFP
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https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/israeli-actor-from-hit-show-fauda-vows-return-to-screen-after-being-wounded-in-gaza
| 2024-01-25T16:25:47Z
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NEW YORK - Actor Robert De Niro gushes over his baby daughter in a new interview, describing being an 80-year-old father as “great”.
The two-time Oscar winner last May said he had welcomed his seventh child at the age of 79.
De Niro, who this week got another Academy Award nomination for his supporting role in Martin Scorsese’s Killers Of The Flower Moon, and his partner Tiffany Chen named their daughter Gia, according to media reports.
“Everything that I’m consumed with or worried about or this and that just goes away when I look at her. So, that in itself is wondrous,” a visibly emotional De Niro told AARP: The Magazine, aimed at the 50-and-over age group in the United States, in an interview.
“But she has a very sweet kind of way of looking at you and just taking you in... So I don’t know where it’s going to go with her later when she gets older, but she’s thinking and she’s observing everything and watching. It’s really interesting.
“So, you know, I’m an 80-year-old dad and it’s great and I want to be around for as long as I can to... enjoy her.” REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/life/entertainment/robert-de-niro-on-baby-daughter-im-an-80-year-old-dad-and-its-great
| 2024-01-25T16:25:57Z
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SINGAPORE - Eligible donors with O+ or O- blood types are urged to donate blood ahead of an expected dip in collection during the Chinese New Year holiday, with the current supplies at critical levels.
As at Jan 25, stocks for the O+ and O- blood types are listed as critical and low respectively on the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) website.
The low supplies are due to the high usage of both blood types and lower-than-normal donations in 2024 so far, the SRC and the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) said in a joint statement on Jan 25.
“If group O blood stocks continue to drop, elective surgeries will have to be postponed and life-saving transfusions could also be compromised,” the statement said, adding that group O blood stocks can now last fewer than six days instead of the minimum nine-day stockpile.
As the universal blood group, group O blood is needed during emergencies when patients’ blood groups are unknown.
Furthermore, nearly half of all patients in Singapore have group O blood and can receive only these blood types.
Blood collection can dip by up to 20 per cent during festive seasons, such as the upcoming Chinese New Year, making it crucial that the group O blood supply be restored to healthy levels as soon as possible, said both organisations.
SRC and HSA urged those with blood groups O+ and O-, who weigh at least 45kg and are between the ages of 16 and 60, to donate blood.
Both organisations encouraged people to donate before travelling to countries or regions with insect-borne infection risks, which may make them ineligible to donate blood for a period of time.
New donors or those who have travelled in the last four months can check their eligibility at www.hsa.gov.sg/donor_criteria, and donors aged 16 or 17 years must have a signed parental consent form obtained from the HSA website.
Donations can be made at blood banks in Outram, Dhoby Ghaut, Woodlands, Westgate Tower and One Punggol, or at SRC’s community blood drives.
All blood banks will be closed on the first two days of Chinese New Year (Feb 10 and 11).
Community and corporate groups can also call SRC on 6220-0183 or e-mail donate.blood@redcross.sg to organise group donations.
SRC and HSA advised donors to have enough rest the night before donating, and a light meal with plenty of fluids on the day of donation.
“Each donation is crucial to ensure that we can... respond to any civil or medical emergencies in Singapore,” the statement said.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/group-o-blood-supply-at-critical-levels-donors-urgently-needed-red-cross-hsa
| 2024-01-25T16:26:07Z
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Carrie Johnson is a devoted wife to her husband, Boris Johnson, and on Wednesday shared a romantic guest she made whilst at their lavish family home.
The mother-of-three prepared a freshly made loaf of bread ready for her husband to come home to after being away on a work trip. Carrie confessed it was the second time she'd attempted a sourdough loaf but the result was very impressive!
Captioning a photo of the bread fresh from the oven, she penned: "My husband just got back from a work trip so I got up early for another fresh loaf…But really it was for me [laughing face emoji]."
Beside the delicious-looking bread was a cup of tea, a tub of butter, and a jar of jam poised on a tray. Prior to Boris' bready delight, Carrie shared the process of making her first-ever loaf as well as her fabulous blue and white patterned plates.
The warm smell of bread would be the pièce de résistance in the couple's fairytale family home which could be something from a fairytale.
The lavish property is named Brightwell Manor and is situated in Brightwell-cum-Sotwell, a quaint village in Oxfordshire.
As well as the nine bedrooms and six reception rooms, the lavish property features its very own moat, and duck pond complete with a family of ducks.
The feathery additions are a favourite with the couple's three children, Wilfred, three, Romy, two, and baby Frank, whom Carrie revealed love animals.
The family-of-five even welcomed baby chicks into their kitchen for Easter last year. The home is equally as impressive inside as it is outside with Carrie's incredible eye for interior design.
Think frilly cushions, hardwood floors, and ornate mirrors as well as the most playful and personal bedroom designs a child could dream of.
The latest overhaul in their family home was for their six-month-old who has just had the most beautiful hand-painted English garden walls.
"Frankie is a lucky boy," penned Carrie when the design was unveiled by decorative artist Meg Boscawen on Instagram. The verdant design featured rolling hills, leafy greenery, and an adorable deer.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512050/carrie-johnson-romantic-getsure-husband-boris-johnson/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:09Z
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Michael Douglas gave fans a glimpse at family life this week when he shared a rare photo of him and his brother, Joel.
To celebrate his younger sibling's birthday, Michael, 79, took to Instagram with a snapshot which delighted fans.
In the image, the Ant-Man actor was beaming alongside 'JoJo' on the golf course. They wore matching baseball caps and had their arms wrapped around each other's shoulders.
"To Jojo my bro," he wrote. "Wishing YOU a great new year! Happy Birthday!!" Michael's wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones also paid tribute and commented with "Happy bday," before fans weighed in on the unexpected image.
Some didn't realize Michael had a brother, while others wished him happy birthday and there were streams of hearts and happy face emojis, suggesting his social media followers approved of the post.
Joel turned 77, making him just a couple of years Michael's junior. The star also has two paternal half-brothers, Eric and Peter. The former tragically died in 2004 from "acute intoxication" from the combined effects of alcohol, tranquilizers, and painkillers.
Joel is not an actor like his famous sibling but he has carved out a famous career in the film industry as a producer and production manager.
He is known for 1975s One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest, Romancing the Stone in 1984 and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as many others.
Several years ago, Michael posted throwback photos from the set of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest with Joel and Jack Nicholson.
Michael and Joel were both born to Kirk Douglas and his wife, Diana. Talking about the best advice his dad ever gave them, he told ET: "Whatever you do in life, just do it to your utmost ability," Douglas said his dad would tell him.
"Do it with full commitment, and then, screw it. If it doesn't work out, move on. But, you know, you left it with the idea that there is nothing more you could have done."
Michael is a family man who is incredibly proud of not only his brother but of his children too. Michael and Catherine's daughter, Carys graduated from high school in 2021 and is currently an International Relations and Film Student at Brown University.
At the age of 20, the youngster is already incredibly hardworking and is also the co-president of Brown’s only club dedicated to raising awareness on food systems and their impact on climate change.
Their son, Dylan, 23, graduated from Brown University in May last year, where he majored in political science. Michael is also a dad to son, Cameron, 45, who he shares with his ex-wife, Diandra Luker.
He made Michael a grandfather when he and his girlfriend, Viviane, welcomed their daughter, Lua, and then their son, Ryder, two years later.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512066/michael-douglas-rarely-seen-famous-brother-pose-photo-dont-miss-it/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:15Z
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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Brunei - The special relationship between Brunei and Singapore is characterised by symbiosis and a sense of kinship between both governments and their people, said President Tharman Shanmugaratnam.
Speaking at a state banquet in Brunei on Jan 25, Mr Tharman highlighted how this relationship has blossomed over four decades, citing defence cooperation and the Currency Interchangeability Agreement as examples of this symbiosis.
Looking ahead, he encouraged both countries to expand bilateral cooperation into new and emerging areas.
The President is in Brunei for a three-day state visit that started on Jan 24, at the invitation of the country’s monarch Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah.
At the banquet hosted by the Sultan and his wife Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, Mr Tharman said Singapore is committed to building on the solid foundation laid by the Sultan’s father, the late Seri Begawan Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien, and former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew.
“But underpinning it all must be the trust between us, and particularly between future generations of Bruneians and Singaporeans,” he said at the dinner banquet held at Istana Nurul Iman, Sultan Bolkiah’s official residence.
Mr Tharman said he and the Sultan encouraged both sides to accelerate efforts to explore innovative and mutually beneficial projects.
These include in areas such as the green economy, where Mr Tharman said Brunei has the potential to develop renewable energy on a significant scale – well beyond its own domestic needs – and which can be integrated within an Asean energy grid.
Aquaculture industries show significant promise in Brunei, and officials on both sides are “actively looking” to collaborate in this area. Mr Tharman said cold-chain logistics for these industries could also be developed.
He also highlighted the area of digital finance, noting that Brunei will soon be launching a domestic system for instant payments.
Mr Tharman said: “There will be clear benefits to consumers and businesses on all sides when we integrate this with Singapore’s PayNow and similar systems in the rest of Asean.”
The trip is Mr Tharman’s first overseas state visit since taking office, and this year marks the 40th anniversary since bilateral relations were established between both countries.
Sultan Bolkiah, who spoke before Mr Tharman, said it is important for both countries to continue working together to safeguard common aspirations and interests.
“Beyond our bilateral ties, Brunei Darussalam has always valued the cooperation and support Singapore has given us in Asean, especially as we work towards the Asean Community Vision 2045, and in promoting regional peace and prosperity.”
Mr Tharman also spoke of why both countries should collaborate, saying: “As small nation-states whose core interests are best served by an open and rules-based international economic order, we seek a high level of ambition in our cooperation.”
The state banquet wrapped up Mr Tharman’s events for the second day of his state visit.
He started the morning with a welcome ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman, followed by a royal audience with the Sultan and his wife.
In the late afternoon, the President travelled to Temburong, Brunei’s easternmost district, to visit Singapore Armed Forces officer cadets undergoing training.
Following a short hike to the “Survival Village” area, Mr Tharman learnt how the cadets build shelters and make fire to cook food using materials found in the jungle.
He commended the officer cadets for their professionalism and toughness in the demanding jungle environment.
He also told them that training in a terrain different from Singapore’s is invaluable, and encouraged them to use the experience to develop skills that will give them confidence.
Singapore and Brunei have had a close defence relationship since 1976. In addition to troops from Singapore training in Brunei, the SAF and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces frequently interact through bilateral exercises and professional exchanges, among other things.
These have enhanced professionalism and strengthened ties between both armed forces, said the Ministry of Defence in a Jan 25 statement.
Mr Tharman was accompanied at Temburong by Chief of Army Major-General David Neo and other senior SAF officers. His wife, Ms Jane Ittogi, as well as several Singaporean political office-holders and MPs were also present.
The President’s SAF training visit coincided with the conclusion of the 26th edition of Exercise Maju Bersama between the Singapore Army and Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF), held from Jan 18 to 25.
About 200 personnel from the 1st Battalion Singapore Infantry Regiment (1 SIR) and the 3rd Battalion RBLF participated in the annual exercise. This year’s iteration featured professional exchanges including the cross-sharing of weapon systems.
At the closing ceremony, Maj-Gen Neo said the exercise was a testament to the commitment from both nations to regional peace and security, and the deepening relationship.
He added: “Through technical exchanges, joint exercises and social interactions, soldiers across all ranks not only learn from each other, but build bonds that last a lifetime.”
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/symbiotic-relationship-sense-of-kinship-president-tharman-on-brunei-s-pore-special-relationship
| 2024-01-25T16:26:18Z
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It looks like Salma Hayek has known how to remain in style and on trend for decades, as evidenced by her latest throwback photo shared on Instagram.
The actress, 57, took to her social media page with a snapshot of herself with her cousin, writing alongside it: "My cousin Arturo and I in the 80s."
While her handsome brother wore a brown button down with jeans, Salma rocked a tan fur jacket with exaggerated sleeves, a white undershirt, jeans, and short hair that had been styled into a swoop.
Several of her fans commented on how good-looking her family tree was, while many others gushed over her ageless radiance and era-appropriate attire, particularly fawning over her hair and look.
In the '80s, Salma had just kicked off her acting career, with her breakthrough coming in the Mexican telenovela Teresa, which ran from 1989-1991 and made her a star in her native Mexico.
However, with aspirations of making it in Hollywood, she moved to Los Angeles in 1991 and struggled to be taken seriously for the first few years. She landed a leading role in the 1994 Mexican film El callejón de los milagros, which is to this day ranked as one of the most acclaimed movies in the history of Mexican cinema.
She finally achieved her Hollywood breakthrough thanks to the one-two punch of Desperado (1995) opposite Antonio Banderas, and then From Dusk Till Dawn (1996).
In an interview with Oprah Winfrey, Salma spoke about moving to the United States with a very limited knowledge of English, which she remedied by taking English lessons and acting classes under the tutelage of Stella Adler.
SEE: Salma Hayek's ultra-racy throwback might be her most daring yet – 'It's the best view'
"You know what? I knew more when I was 12, because I came to school here [in Texas] for two years," she explained. "Then I went away for ten years and didn't really practice.
"My English was limited to vacationing and not really engaging with Americans. I knew 'shopping' and 'eating' English – I could say 'blue sweater', 'crème brulée', and 'Caesar salad' – so I came here thinking I spoke English."
She also recalled the struggle of trying to fight for her place in the industry as a famous actress coming from Mexico, citing moments of "desperation" and "anger."
"I certainly had my moments of desperation, of anger, of self-pity, of self-deprecation," Salma remarked. "Yet after a lot of struggling, I am finally working. I am beginning to make money. I am famous. And I say, 'This is not what I wanted, either. It doesn't feel good, either.'
MORE: Salma Hayek is the ultimate ski princess in snowy Aspen snaps with her husband
"And I go, 'Why?' Well, I am famous, doing movies that my agents want. People around me are saying, 'This is what you need to do now so that you can get to do what you want later.'
"And I say, 'Well, this is not my dream, either. How scary!' After all this work. So what's my dream? I thought about this, and I wanted to do a different kind of movie. I wanted to have a voice, and it was okay if I wasn't going to be so famous or so rich."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512062/salma-hayek-almost-unrecognizable-classic-80s-style-throwback/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:21Z
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Sarah Michelle Gellar left her 'good girl' persona at home for a fun-filled trip to Las Vegas – and she made sure to pack her leather for the occasion.
The 46-year-old looked incredible in an all-black ensemble as she prepared for another night out in Sin City – appearing to leave her husband, Freddie Prinze Jr. at home.
Posing on the balcony of her hotel overlooking the famous Strip, the Buffy actress rocked a pair of leather shorts with matching knee-high boots that elongated her slender legs.
Favoring the 'less is more' approach, Sarah added a plunging black, sleeveless, crop top that exposed her chest and a hint of her toned abs.
Adding more drama to her look, she opted for heavily lined eyes and glossy lips and wore her shoulder-length hair in a half-up style with volume at the crown.
Sarah posted three photos of herself posing for the camera while in her spacious hotel room – and she looked like she was ready for a wild night out.
"Looking forward to regretting my decisions later," she cheekily captioned the post.
Her followers were in top form as they commented on the photos, making references to her iconic character of Buffy the Vampire Slayer. "You can't tell me you're not a slayer anymore bc sarah u SLAYED," replied one.
A second said: "I thought buffy only slayed vampires but damn." A third added: "Show me you are the CHOSEN ONE without saying you are," while others left fire and heart emojis to show their appreciation.
Sarah has been keeping her followers updated on her trip, which included a night out watching Kylie Minogue perform her residency at Voltaire in The Venetian Resort.
She even got to meet the pop princess, sharing some photos of the two backstage – and, of course, they both looked amazing.
In stark contrast to her all-black outfit, Sarah opted for a gold, sequinned mini dress and heels to meet Kylie, who wowed in a sparkling, red, animal print bodysuit with matching knee-high boots.
A second post showed the actress at the venue with her "boys" as they enjoyed some VIP treatment and what appeared to be an incredible acrobatic performance before Kylie hit the stage.
"Vegas high!! If you can, go see @kylieminogue at @venetianvegas The theatre they built @voltairelv is amazing. It's a major vibe. Best night with my boys and the woman I call #mother," she penned.
The Wolf Pack star's latest getaway comes after she enjoyed a picturesque vacation with her husband of over 20 years and their two children, Charlotte, 14, and Rocky, 11.
While she didn't divulge their location, a photo she shared on her Story at the time revealed they were somewhere idyllic as they were surrounded by palm trees and sandy beaches.
The couple met in 1997 on the set of the horror film, I Know What You Did Last Summer, but they didn't become a couple until three years later.
Despite neither of them being "into marriage", their views changed once they started dating and they tied the knot at a resort in Mexico in 2002.
"One day, I just knew we were gonna get married and I knew I was gonna propose," Freddie told People Now in 2020. "I didn't know when or how. And so, I did and fortunately, she was on the same page. My instincts were correct."
Sarah added: "I think for the first time it felt different right? Maybe it was the right time for both of us in our lives."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512065/sarah-michelle-gellar-endless-legs-tiny-leather-shorts-las-vegas-photos/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:27Z
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SINGAPORE – Traditional music sounded on the streets of Little India and Dhoby Ghaut as more than 18,000 devotees marked the annual rite of Thaipusam on Jan 25.
The devotees performed penitential acts on their walk of faith for Hindu god Lord Murugan.
Among the 274 kavadi bearers and 12,800 bearers of paal kudam, or milk pot, was 19-year-old first-timer Mithesh, who goes by one name. Carrying a 35kg alagu kavadi, the former youth-at-risk and full-time national serviceman is optimistic about turning over a new leaf.
His alagu kavadi – a structure made of wood and metal – was held in place by close to 70 hooks pierced into his body. His nine-day fasting and rigorous preparation had culminated in the procession, which he took about three hours to complete.
Mithesh’s mother, Ms Jewel Kala, 47, expressed her joy in seeing his positive transformation through religion. The single mother of three said: “He is small compared with his kavadi, so there were numerous challenges. I am proud he saved up and bought his own second-hand kavadi, costing $1,000, and is the first in this generation of my family to do so.”
Mithesh, who plans to pursue veterinary science and hopes to support his mother financially, said: “Events like Thaipusam are gateways for youth-at-risk who want to mend their ways. I am glad religion and devotion have changed me.”
Bearing a variety of kavadis and milk pots atop their heads, the devotees in yellow and orange garb completed the 4km foot procession from Sri Perumal Temple to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple. All participants had pre-registered as early as a month ago.
The devotees were undeterred by the festival falling on a weekday in 2024, with some working adults and students taking leave to join the festivities. Despite the mild showers in the afternoon, the devotees persevered with the mostly smooth foot procession.
Minister for Communications and Information and Second Minister for Home Affairs Josephine Teo joined the festival and highlighted the meaningful participation of non-Hindus, non-Indians and particularly young devotees in the festivities.
Describing the crowd as interestingly multiracial and multicultural, she said: “It is most encouraging to me that local non-Hindus supporting their family members or friends are here to observe this as a practice, a fabric of our society.”
Mrs Teo, an MP in Jalan Besar GRC, noted the importance of unique cultural and religious practices in modern Singapore.
“It is important for us as a fairly young nation to think about what binds us together as a nation. In many societies, especially fast-paced, modernised ones, these activities are pushed into the fringes and are forgotten over time, which is a great loss.”
Five live music stations featured local traditional groups and musicians. New stations in Clemenceau Avenue and opposite Selegie Avenue joined the previous three in Hastings Road, Short Street and Cathay Green. Each music group could carry up to four percussion instruments, up from one in 2023.
For many of the worshippers, Thaipusam feels complete with the consecration of Sri Thendayuthapani Temple in June 2023, in time for the 2024 festival. They can now access the main sanctum and offer their prayers or offerings. The tradition of serving lunch to the devotees during Thaipusam also returned to Sri Thendayuthapani Temple after three years of bento box distributions.
Childhood friend Lionel Tan has been a bedrock in Mr Paul Singh’s 14-year kavadi journey. He returned to Thaipusam in 2024, taking leave from work to help assemble Mr Singh’s kavadi and support him throughout the procession.
Other non-Hindus who have been returning to Thaipusam include Mr Ken Ho, Mr Lim Eng Kin, Mr Ken Ng and Mr Edwin Fo, who carried milk pots and pierced alagus. The group, from various walks of life and of different ages, has been attending Thaipusam celebrations for several years. Mr Lim, 65, said: “When I was young, I was always fascinated by Thaipusam processions. A few years ago, I was introduced to this formally by an Indian friend. It has cleared my conscience and I feel much better.”
Hoping for a successful marriage in 2025 were Mohanrach and Hema Devi, both 29. After her father survived a critical motorbike accident, Ms Hema Devi turned to bearing milk pots with alagu piercings. This is the second year she joined her fiancé to demonstrate her gratitude.
The festivities started at 11.30pm on Jan 24 and ended on the night of Jan 25. Devotees received support from local companies that set up 23 water or drink booths along the procession route. About 1,500 volunteers and temple staff helped ensure a seamless event.
The festival was the result of five months of preparations, said Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple’s secretary, Mr Sivakumaran Sathappan. Despite the management’s doubts about the size of the turnout as Thaipusam 2024 fell on a weekday, the support had been remarkable, he said.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/thaipusam-2024-drums-up-cheer-and-hope-for-18000-devotees
| 2024-01-25T16:26:28Z
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American Nightmare is the Netflix show is all anyone is talking about at the moment, and it shares the stranger-than-fiction tale of Denise Hoskins and Aaron Quinn, a couple who found themselves in trouble with the law after they were victims of a break-out and kidnap - despite being completely innocent of any crime.
The couple were at their home when an intruder drugged them and kidnapped Denise, issuing a ransom for her return before eventually dropping her off near her parents’ home 400 miles away. The police publicly stated that they believed the couple had lied about the incident, with Lt Kenny Park saying: “Mr Quinn and Ms Huskins have plundered valuable resources away from our community, and have taken focus away from the true victims of our community while instilling fear amongst our community members.”
However, after the real kidnapper, an ex-Marine named Matthew Muller, was eventually arrested and convicted, the couple filed a claim for violating their rights and destroying their reputations, with the claim reading: “While the Vallejo Police Department focused on two unsubstantiated theories, that Aaron killed Denise or that Denise somehow faked her own kidnapping, Denise endured unimaginable terror and a violent assault.”
The couple settled for $2.5 million in 2018. So after being vindicated, where are they now? Find out here…
The couple are very much still together and released a book detailing their experience, Victim F: From Crime Victims to Suspects to Survivors, to share their experience. The pair tied the knot in 2018, with Denise sharing the gorgeous photos on Instagram, writing: “So grateful to my husband @movement_yoda and all of our loved ones for such an incredible day and wonderful memories. A special thanks to all of our vendors who helped make the day even more unforgettable: @monarchcoveinn for the breathtaking venue and attentive service.”
They also share two daughters, aged four and one. They often share photos of their happy family life on social media.
They have also used their platform to discuss bringing the case back into the spotlight for the Netflix series, saying: “Before waking this morning we had already received countless messages/comments of people’s love and support upon the release of our docuseries today. It’s always terrifying putting ourselves out there, re-exposing ourselves publicly, but there is a greater purpose. Thank you for receiving this with such compassion and respect.”
Speaking about remaining together, they told Netflix: “I think we would have stayed together, and I think that’s why we were able to stay together. When you go through traumatic experiences, it does strip away some of the noise.
"You start realising what’s really important: our relationship with each other, and our relationship with our families and close friends. The level of exposure from this series will probably be quite a lot. But I know that when I come home, I’ll be with Denise and our girls. We have a solid bedrock, and places to go where people love us for who we are.”
They added: “Despite all the crazy things that we’ve gone through, we are the lucky ones. That’s a major reason why we continue to put ourselves out there. We are the ones that had the ability to hire attorneys who stayed by our side to help ensure that we were protected as victims. We were fortunate to have an understanding of a system that’s really confusing in the first place. So now we can take that and use it to our advantage to reach as many other people as possible.”
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512053/where-are-denise-huskins-and-aaron-quinn-of-american-nightmare-now/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:33Z
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The Travelling Auctioneers returned to BBC One earlier this month, with a brand new line-up of presenters joining Christina Trevanion in the trusty blue auction van. Among the fresh faces on the show is restoration specialist Robin Johnson. But how much do you know about him?
Keep reading to find out all about the presenter, including his previous TV credits and life away from the cameras.
Robin's career in design and woodwork
Robin, 39, is a woodwork and metalwork expert who is perhaps best recognised for appearing on Quest TV shows, including Salvage Hunters: The Restorers, and The Woodland Workshop.
Before he ventured into the world of TV, Robin worked as a Design and Technology teacher at a boarding school in West Sussex. He worked there for a year before landing a job as Head of Design at a public school - a position he held for almost five years from 2010 to 2015.
Robin's big break came in 2017 when he made his presenting debut on Channel 4's interior design craft series, Craft It Yourself.
From there, he landed roles on various Quest TV shows, including Kings of the Wood, Salvage Hunters: The Restorers, and The Woodland Workshop.
Earlier this month, Robin appeared in the second series of The Travelling Auctioneers, which sees the expert join Christina, Izzie Balmer and JJ Chalmers as they head out on the road to transform unwanted items into winning lots.
On joining series two of The Travelling Auctioneers, Robin said: "How could I turn it down? Driving around the UK with experts like Christina and Izzie, fixing lost treasures in people’s driveways… what a great way to spend a summer!"
Sharing a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes, Robin told the BBC: "When we filmed at Blenheim Palace, Christina revealed she's on first-name terms with the Duke of Marlborough after attending a party there in the past – she really is the social butterfly of the group! Also, every time JJ had the van, it came back to me totally clean and organised in the back – a state it definitely didn't return in, I'm ashamed to say."
Robin's home life away from the cameras
When he's not busy travelling up and down the UK with Christina, Izzie and JJ, Robin can be found working as the general manager at his business, Johnson Bespoke Joinery and Metal Fabrication, which produces tailor-made joinery, furniture and metalwork.
According to the company website, Robin's passion for woodwork and metalwork was sparked by his father, who taught him how to use tools when he was a young boy.
As well as producing bespoke furniture at his workshop, Robin also designed and built furniture for a Gold Medal winning main garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show.
As for his life outside of work, Robin tends to keep it private, so it's not known if he's married or has children. Given his company is based in Hastings, it's likely that Robin is also based in East Sussex.
While Robin rarely opens up about his romantic life, he did share a photo of him and his partner back in January 2023. Taking to X after being shortlisted at the 2023 Heritage Crafts Awards, he penned: "I was shortlisted for the Woodworker of the Year award at the House of Lords with @heritage_crafts," he penned. "The incredibly talented Luthier Jonathan Hill won the award, and I was very happy for him - a well deserved win."
Sharing an adorable snap of Robin holding hands with his partner, whose name is unknown, the woodwork expert continued: "Then my love took me for a cocktail at Bacchanalia to take in the fantastic ambience and then on to dinner at Le Comptoir Robuchon - delicate French cuisine at its finest. And I turned 38!"
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512056/travelling-auctioneers-robin-johnson-all-we-know/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:39Z
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MELBOURNE – Up there above the clouds, near the peak of Mount Everest which is at 8,848m, mountaineers are confronted with one last obstacle. A 12m rock face at 8,790m named the Hillary Step. By the time climbers reach there they are exhausted and the face demands fine technical skills. It is a stern reminder from the mountain that there is always more to do.
On Rod Laver Arena on Thursday night, as a 12th seed outsider from China played a world No. 93 underdog from Ukraine, the summit looked close. But these last steps are always the hardest, especially for those not used to the thin air of Grand Slam semi-finals. The result, almost understandably, was a slightly hiccuping match, full of heavy-hitting, some of it reckless. For once both players, Zheng Qinwen and Dayana Yastremska, knew there was a lot to lose.
Zheng won 6-4, 6-4, in one hour and 42 minutes and is the first Chinese woman to make an Open final since Li Na charmed this city in 2014. In fact Li’s name comes up so often in Zheng’s interviews that a journalist apologised for again bringing up her name. “No worries,” grinned Zheng, “we love her.”
But Zheng’s grit has won admirers, too, even if her gift for getting to the final is defending champion Aryna Sabalenka. If Zheng hit one delightful forehand at 141kmh, then that is the speed at which Sabalenka always operates. The 21-year-old from Shiyan knows it and said, “She’s got the most big serve, most big forehand, big backhand.”
But that is Saturday and right now Thursday needed celebrating and Zheng lifted her arms on court and roared. “Unbelievable,” she said. In 2023, she won the Asian Games singles gold in Hangzhou and reached the US Open quarter-finals. Her coach Wim Fissette rudely walked out on her, choosing to reunite with the returning Naomi Osaka. Perhaps it was an error, for the real Asian story of this Open, and perhaps the year, is Zheng.
She trains in Barcelona with former Spanish player Pere Riba, is fluent on both wings, moves as if on skates and owns an aggression that can be explained by two numbers. She has the most aces with 48 (second place is 25) and also the most double faults at 35. She hits lines and also walks fine ones.
This was the fairy-tale semi-final, not the fancy one. This wasn’t Sabalenka v Gauff and the famous faces which get plastered on billboards. This was the semi-final whose inhabitants saw this moment as a blessing not a birthright. This was the life-changing semi-final but only for one.
If Yastremska was a boxer she’d rarely throw jabs, only whistling hooks. See ball, belt ball, is her pithy maxim. In the second game she hit a backhand cross-court that peeled paint from the surface. Quickly she broke Zheng to 2-0 and immediately was broken back. The night was quickly edgy and whimsical.
It was Thursday and the Open had changed complexion. It has become about pomp and prizes now and its light-heartedness has passed. Rod Laver Arena feels like an athletic church readying for a coronation. Both players played as if they were late for lunch, hurrying instead of deliberating, and the Light Brigade would have blushed at Yastremska’s charge.
The Ukrainian’s story has dazzled because fans are enthralled when the order of sport is shuffled. Seeds lose, pathways open and flamboyant players roll their dice. In 2001 Goran Ivanisevic won Wimbledon as a wild card and 20 years later, across the ocean, Emma Raducanu won the US Open as a qualifier.
But this book of underdog glory will remain a thin one, for Yastremska could not find her best. Her stomach was hurting and her body felt beaten up. If the finalists will play their seventh match on Saturday, the Ukrainian, a qualifier, had already played nine. “I’m not sad about the loss,” she said, “I’m very sad that I didn’t have enough emotions and enough physical power for today’s match.”
Zheng flirted with inconsistency as well, but took a screwdriver to her game midway and made adjustments to her sights. The best players adapt and learn that greatness is equal to miserliness. In the first set she made 15 unforced errors, in the second only four. She broke at 3-3 and held on to take the first set and after an exchange of breaks in the second set again surged ahead.
The highest-ranked player Zheng has beaten all Open is No. 54 and now her final opponent is the No. 2. Yes, she agreed, Sabalenka was the first big seed she would confront, but she’d be ready. “It’s a match, so let’s see what’s gonna happen.” To be where she is now was her dream as a child, but then she clarified that statement.
“My dream is not just the final. I’m almost there.”
One last, hard trek to the summit remains.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/china-s-zheng-is-one-final-hard-step-from-the-summit
| 2024-01-25T16:26:40Z
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Like many, The Traitors has been a source of joy for me through the January Blues. The drama, the suspicions, the wine-themed murders - it’s been the best. But now that the finale is almost upon us, I can’t wait to see whether the Faithfuls will be successful in rooting out all of the Traitors and splitting the cash prize - or if team Traitors will talk their way to winning the prize pot for themselves. So, with two episodes left to go, here’s how I think the finale will go down.
First of all, you have Thursday night’s episode, which will make some crucial decisions for the Faithfuls and the Traitors chances at taking home the big prize.
While Harry does appear to be out of the woods, with even Jaz no longer believing that he is a Traitor after the whole ‘fake attempted murder’ thing with the Shield, it looks like this season’s King of the Traitors might truly make it safely to the end - particularly if tonight’s murder turns out to the Jaz - as it truly will leave no one left with a hint of suspicion for Harry. That being said, I reckon that poor old Andrew won’t be joining him.
Despite playing a very good game since the Traitor life chose him, Ross appears to have turned the Faithfuls suspicious of Andrew after ‘elusive-gate’. While Andrew denied Ross’s claims that he had called Harry ‘elusive’, Ross’s annoyance at the flagrant lie made him opt to vote for Andrew in the final roundtable.
His annoyance - particularly after the revelation that he was indeed a Traitor - has the Faithfuls confused - because although he was a Traitor, they believed that he was truly offended by Andrew denying that he had said anything of the sort. He might get away with it in the penultimate episode, but I can’t see the remaining Faithfuls trusting him enough to proclaim that the game is over.
And if it isn’t the Faithfuls who are going to get Andrew out, it’s Harry. That boy does not want to split that prize fund, and with all of his tricks so far working perfectly, who are we to deny him one last betrayal? Whether it will take some persuasion from Harry, or Harry will refuse the game to end and force everyone to vote again to take out Andrew - we can’t see our favourite Welshman taking home the big prize now - no matter how he plays it.
So? Who is getting murdered before the show’s end? We’re going with Jaz and Zack. As for poor Jasmine? We don’t think she’ll be making it to the final either, as determined as Zack is that she is absolutely a Traitor, and in cahoots with Ross. So, I might be as clueless as the Faithfuls with these predictions, but I think we’ll be left with Andrew, Harry, Evie and Mollie as the finalists, with Andrew ultimately being voted out over the fire pit - and Harry taking home the prize.
The more I think about it, the more I think a Traitors win is a total certainty - unless some serious twists are coming from Mollie and Evie. The pair are two of the roundtable’s quieter players, but they could just be keeping their cards very close to their chests.
Evie even alluded to there being more going on than we might think on Twitter, writing: “CAN I CLEAR SOMETHING UP. Being quiet is not the same as being clueless. You can be the loudest person in the room but are you saying anything?” So, after pretty much an all-boys club of traitoring throughout the series - can the girls sweep the rug out from beneath them both and win the prize? And is that even what we would want? After watching all of Harry’s hard work, I have to say I feel like he’s earned this £120k. But which will you be for the finale? Team Traitor, or Team Faithful?
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512061/im-a-tv-expert-and-heres-how-i-think-the-traitors-season-finale-will-go-down/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:45Z
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LONDON - James Maddison is "in a good place" and ready to start for Tottenham Hotspur in their home FA Cup fourth round clash with Premier League champions Manchester City on Friday, manager Ange Postecoglou said.
Maddison made an immediate impact when he joined the North Londoners from relegated Leicester City last June but the England midfielder has been out since November with an ankle injury.
"He's trained all week and he is fine. He is available and ready to start," Postecoglou told reporters.
"When someone is available I assume they are ready to start. Whether they do or not depends on what I see with everyone else tomorrow and I usually make those decisions game day.
"The beauty of it is he's got through the week really well and ready to go."
Postecoglou said Dejan Kulusevski was also fit after missing the 2-2 league draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford last Sunday.
Spurs remain without South Korean captain Son Heung-min and midfielders Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr, all on international duty.
Tottenham go into the match with their players refreshed after a four day break.
"We’ve had a really good training week. It helps when the numbers are up. Your training's just a little bit more intense, there’s that bit more quality there, which helps the whole group," said Postecoglou.
"I think it has been beneficial but obviously we've got three games coming up which will test our preparations."
The Australian said injuries and absences had made it a difficult period for the club for quite a while but the players had come through it well.
"We've set ourselves up now for hopefully a strong finish to the league season and a good cup run," he said. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/maddison-ready-to-return-for-spurs-against-man-city
| 2024-01-25T16:26:50Z
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Jeremy Allen White has been the talk of the town in recent weeks due to bagging trophies at the Golden Globes and beyond, but the actor's divorce has also been the subject of headlines after he and Addison Timlin called time on their marriage last year.
The award-winning actor and star of The Bear opened up to British GQ at the end of 2023 admitting that the year had come with a lot of "high highs and terribly low lows", perhaps referring to the wild success of the kitchen comedy-drama and the breakdown of his relationship of almost 15 years.
Jeremy and Addison, who filed for divorce officially in May 2023, have not cited the reasons for their split. However, PEOPLE reported last year that the two were on "good terms" for co-parenting, and keeping friendly for the sake of their two children, Ezer Billie White, aged five, and Dolores Wild White, aged three.
It's more than clear that the two parents adore their two daughters, and the bond they have is shown in these cute snaps that will melt your heart…
Jeremy Allen White and Addison Timlin's sweetest snaps with their two girls…
'I do'
Jeremy and Addison met when they were teenagers. They were both starting their acting careers before starring alongside each other in a film.
Fast-forward more than a decade, and the couple decided to get hitched at the courthouse in Los Angeles.
This photo shows them on their special day with their eldest daughter, Ezer, in tow.
Don't miss
Mom & Dad
Back in 2019, shortly before they said 'I do', Addison shared this photo to her Instagram with Jeremy and their eldest to celebrate the Easter holidays.
The family-of-three look totally in love with their daughter, who was born just a few months before, and little Ezer looked super cute in her baby grow and woolly hat.
Like mother, like daughter
A year before they filed for divorce, Jeremy shared this photo of Addison and their youngest, Dolores, smiling for the camera as he honoured his wife on her birthday.
"Superstar! My number one," the actor wrote. "It's your birthday today. Thanks for being the gift that keeps on giving. Thanks for taking care of so many of us.
"You've been at the center of my life for so long now, I can't remember much before, I'm lucky for it. You're my whole heart. Happy birthday."
Daddy-daughter yoga
How cute is this snap? Jeremy and Ezer were enjoying some quality time together while doing some downward dog yoga poses in their gorgeous garden for this photo, which Addison humorously captioned: "Ezer teaching her first yoga class. We're so proud, she didn't even tell us she got certified."
Mother's Day
To mark Mother's Day in 2020, The Bear actor shared this cute snap and paid tribute to his wife in the caption: "You're the best and she knows it. Happy Mother's Day my love."
Jeremy and Ezer posed for this super cute selfie back in 2020 to mark their eldest daughter's birthday. Little Ezer looked adorable in her floral hat and red shades with matching red shorts.
The photo also shows a glimpse of the actor's house, which features large artwork on the walls, a large bookcase and a free-standing floor lamp.
Family photo
The photo was shared to mark the holidays and the former couple looked relaxed and happy as Jeremy affectionately puts his arm around his wife and eldest.
We're obsessed with little Ezer's adorable beret and red jumper.
Valentine's Day
To mark Valentine's Day in 2021, Addison shared this extremely relatable post about life as parents of two young children.
The actress wrote: "Sweet husband, I love navigating the sweet storm of our children with you everyday.
"You put a storm in my heart forever. Earlier today when Dolly threw up on you, and Ezer screamed about a pull-up full of poop – while I was pumping in my PJ's at noon, I thought – this is all I've ever truly wanted. Happy Valentine's Day."
Addison often post pictures of their adorable daughters on social media
What have Jeremy Allen White and Addison Timlin said about their split?
Neither Jeremy nor Addison has explicitly spoken about the split, however, as mentioned Jeremy spoke of "lows" in an interview last year, while Addison opened up about the difficulty of co-parenting.
Posting on Instagram, she wrote: "Co-parenting is not how I pictured it. It is so [expletive] hard. It's not the natural order of things.
"It can be so exhausting but more than anything it can just be so lonely. When something magical happens and you have to tell yourself 'Don't forget this' because there's no witness by your side. It's so painful."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/512052/jeremy-allen-whites-ultra-rare-photos-with-two-daughters-amid-difficult-custody-battle-with-addison-timlin/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:51Z
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Just in time for Valentine’s day, Kate Moss has introduced her latest drop from her wellness range Cosmoss, but this time she’s ventured into something even more personal than fragrance and skin care.
The model-turned-entrepreneur has a new book out titled Love Letters, designed to inspire and uplift your day.
Its a treasure trove of 150 “positive affirmations”, each a beacon of light in the form of mindful messages. “I hope people will share these with their friends and loved ones, spreading positivity,” explains Kate of her new venture. Crafted with care by Mossy herself, the letters aim to brighten days and enlighten minds, offering a moment of reflection and motivation for readers.
"Love Letters" stands out not just for its heartfelt content but also for its remarkable contributors. The book features exclusive insights from Kate’s glittering inner circle of friends including wellness guru Dr. Deepak Chopra, supermodels Shalom Harlow and Amber Valetta, and homoeopath Victoria Young, among various thinkers, writers, and poets known for their uplifting words. Quotes include Rumi’s “Wherever you are, and whatever yoe do, be in love,” and Shakespeare’s “The earth has music for those who listen.”
MORE: Lila Moss shares never-before-seen image to mark Kate's 50th birthday
RELATED: Kate Moss turns 50: Her most iconic looks of all time
Each message, or 'love letter,' as Moss fondly calls them, is an invitation to pause and reflect. Affirmations have become a huge trend in the wellness space. Manifesting expert and author of Sunday Times Bestseller Manifest, Roxie Nafousi explains that affirmations are “one of the main rituals we can practise” to make sure we are calm. “I recommend a daily gratitude practice,” Roxie tells Hello! Fashion, “I have a few examples of different ways to do this in Step 5 of both my books; repeating affirmations and doing a weekly visualisation meditation."
Kate encourages her readers to dive into the book socially or in solitude. Whether it's flipping to a random page to discover a message that 'chooses' you or selecting a specific letter to share with a friend, the book is designed to be a versatile companion.
As for Kate’s quotes on love? We’ll just have to spend the £22 it costs to see if they make an appearance.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/culture/512058/kate-moss-love-letters-book-cosmoss/
| 2024-01-25T16:26:58Z
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Manchester City striker Erling Haaland will miss their FA Cup fourth round game with Tottenham Hotspur, but is close to a return to action, manager Pep Guardiola said on Thursday.
Haaland has missed City's last nine games in all competitions with a foot injury, and Guardiola is prepared to wait until the Norwegian forward is fully recovered.
"He is on the verge to come back," Guardiola told reporters.
"Tomorrow still he's not ready but he's close. Training camp was good, trained some sessions and the last two days here he trained but he's not perfect and we wait a little bit more."
The manager also reported that defender Manuel Akanji will miss Friday's trip to Spurs but both defender John Stones and goalkeeper Ederson are available for selection.
Guardiola confirmed the news that midfielder Kalvin Phillips is in London for a medical at West Ham United prior to a probable loan move.
"It still isn't done, but he travelled yesterday to make a medical test, but probably it is going to be a loan for six months, and hopefully he can play the minutes he deserves and I couldn't give to him," the manager said.
"If I give him 10-15 games in a row he will play good but I did not give him that. I have players in the squad and decide we are looking for different things.
"I can only say how grateful I am for his behaviour off the pitch and hopefully he can get the minutes and next season we will see what happens."
The Director of Football Operations at City Football Group Omar Berrada recently left to join Manchester United as chief executive officer and Guardiola wished him well.
"He has been an important person for the organisation," Guardiola said. "But he decided for himself to leave and the club will move forward and find the right person."
Guardiola responded to UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin's comments that European soccer's governing body were right to ban City from European competition in 2020 for breaching financial regulations, a decision which was later overturned by CAS.
City, who have denied wrongdoing, are facing 115 charges from the Premier League over breaching financial rules.
"As the lawyer that he is, the president of UEFA he should wait, and after do whatever he wants," Guardiola said.
"He has to wait, he has a lot of jobs to do in UEFA, the lawyers should respect the procedure. He knows we have the right to defend ourselves." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/man-citys-haaland-to-miss-spurs-game-but-close-to-return
| 2024-01-25T16:27:00Z
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It was only a matter of time before the feline fans made cats high fashion (again) and it seems that 2024 is the year.
You could argue that the cat trend has been done before, first sparking waves back in 2016 when Loewe presented its Fall/Winter collection, sending models down the runway with giant cat head pendants around their necks. In 2017 on the Gucci Cruise catwalk, models donned feline-adorned sweater knits, t-shirts, kilts and cross-body bags.
Karl Lagerfeld's love for his darling Choupette didn’t help either. The world's most famous and spoiled cat inspired a range of the late designer's collections, including his self-titled brand Karl Lagerfeld which is still selling t-shirts with a Choupette figure wearing a pair of Karl's iconic black sunglasses and life-size cross-body figurine bags.
Fast forward seven years and cats in all variations seem to be at the helm once again. Earlier this month JW Anderson and Givenchy presented garments with specific nods to the house cat at the Menswear Fall/Winter 2024 fashion week, where Acne Studios released a new collection with watercoloured pictures of furry friends on skirts, tops and jackets.
JW Anderson printed giant cat faces onto oversized sweaters whereas Givenchy chose to hide cat faces in light grey furry jackets and printed faces on tight tank tops. Two brands channelling the same animal motif is a coincidence but three, that's a pattern.
Alongside the rise of cat-inspired collections is the recent rise of animal ears on garments. Just recently Dua Lipa was seen sporting a black hoodie with cat ears. Over the last few weeks, the streetwear realm has gone crazy for Charles Jeffrey’s Loverboy beanies, all of which feature oversized cat or bunny ears.
Whether you love or hate the feline trend it is most definitely competing against bows, mob wife aesthetic and thick jersey headbands for this year's top trending spot.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/hfm/fashion-trends/512055/the-cat-just-became-fashions-hottest-statement-piece/
| 2024-01-25T16:27:04Z
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International partners are ready to supply Ukraine with F-16 fighter jets, but preparations for their effective deployment are still in progress, including preparing infrastructure and training pilots and maintenance technicians. This was stated by Air Force Command spokesman Yurii Ihnat on Ukrainian TV on 25 January, as reported by Ukrinform.
Ukraine aims to use F-16 fighter jets to counter Russia’s air superiority at the frontline. The dense air defenses prevent Russian aircraft from operating behind lines in Ukraine-controlled territory, but they maintain an edge with longer-range radars and air-launched missiles and bombs. By deploying F-16s, which are superior to their current Soviet-era aircraft, Ukraine hopes to push Russian aircraft further from the front.
“Partners are ready to provide us with these capabilities. The question is whether everything is ready for their operation in Ukraine. Quite often we see all kinds of timelines or forecasts, coming from different countries or experts. It is clear that everything must be prepared, including pilots, infrastructure, and maintenance engineers, and also there are other factors that are not discussed as widely,” Ihnat said.
The spokesman stressed the need for a thorough strategy in introducing and utilizing new multi-purpose aircraft in Ukraine, particularly for combat. He highlighted the future key roles of the F-16s in Ukraine: attacking invaders, defending airspace, repelling enemy planes, and intercepting drones:
“Of course, you may see statements from European leaders that ‘we are ready to hand over the planes to you already’. ‘Hand over’ means that simply moving them to our territory. And this is not the option Ukraine needs. We need them to fly and engage the invaders from the air, protect our airspace, push Russia’s aircraft away from our borders, and intercept Shaded drones attacking our country during the night hours,” Ihnat added.
As Ukrainian aviators train to operate the F-16s in the EU and the US and Ukraine prepares land infrastructure for the fighter jets, experts speculate when the country can deploy the Western aircraft. The Ukrainian Air Force spokesman, however, often denies the suggested timelines.
Read also:
- Canada to provide naval boats and F-16 training support to Ukraine
- Ukraine Mission Head: NATO positively assesses F-16 deployment preparations in Ukraine
- Berlingske: Denmark to delay F-16 jets delivery to Ukraine
- Pentagon: Ukrainian F-16 training wrapping up by December 2024
- Norway to send F-16 jets, instructors to assist training Ukrainian pilots in Denmark
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https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/01/25/ukraine-air-force-more-to-be-done-before-ukraine-deploys-f-16-fighter-jets/
| 2024-01-25T16:27:05Z
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How many self-help books do you have on your bookshelf? Whether you want to calm your anxiety, get a grip on your finances, increase your self-confidence or just change your way of thinking, there’s a book out there to help you do it.
Do they really help? We spoke to motivational speaker Simon Mundie, who told us: “Sometimes it only takes a few words to change how you view yourself and the world. That’s why well-written self-help books can be the catalyst that transform how you experience life. From advice on improving relationships to managing stress and working in a more efficient and impactful way – they really can help people to make positive changes.”
Simon - who has written his own self-help book Champion Thinking: How To Find Success Without Losing Yourself - continues: “No one has all the answers to life’s many challenges, but if you are open to fresh ideas, you can learn valuable insights that can allow you to flourish and also save you time in so many important areas.”
If you swap an hour a day of mindless scrolling of social media for an hour with your nose stuck in one of these great books and we promise you’ll soon see a difference in your mindset. To make it extra easy, we’ve gathered them here in a handy list.
How we chose the top motivational books:
- Personal recommendations: These are the books that the HELLO! team have read and loved, and used to make positive changes in their own lives.
- Expert advice: Motivational speaker Simon gave us his top picks to add to our list. Scroll down to find out more about Simon and why you should trust him
- Reviews: In the rare case that we haven’t read the book ourselves, we only included books that received a high number of positive reviews from verified shoppers.
- Variety: We tried to cover as many topics as possible, so whether you want a book to help banish imposter syndrome, master life’s difficult lessons or improve your focus, you’ll be catered for.
The big book of small changes
Why we love it
“A very easy read, this self-help book is a fantastic choice for anyone seeking to enhance productivity without a clear starting point. It is filled with scientific insights and outlines steps to make incremental 1% improvements in various aspects of your life. Ideal for those passionate about self-help and a great guide to initiate progress in personal development.”
Andrea Alvarada, HELLO! Digital Marketing Executive
Atomic Habits has sold over three million copies since its release in 2018 and at the time of writing was the number one best-selling self-help book on Amazon, where it has over 152k positive reviews. It’s a safe bet for anyone wanting a self-help book to help them improve their lives by starting with small, doable changes.
The best book to banish imposter syndrome
Why we love it
"Have you ever experienced ‘imposter syndrome’? Having given numerous talks on the subject, I am yet to meet someone who hasn’t. That’s because uncomfortable feelings and doubting thoughts are part of the human experience. They are completely normal, it is our resistance to them that makes them problematic.
"Dr Harris introduces a proven counter-intuitive method to embrace our inner experience, and thrive regardless of what the voice in our head happens to be saying."
Simon Mundie, motivational speaker and author
If you’re looking for a book to help you build self confidence, The confidence Gap, written by therapist, coach and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) trainer Dr Russ Harris, can help. He shares the practical tools and strategies he’s used to help so many people to gain long-lasting confidence, identify their passions and create a more fulfilling life.
Wise teachings and learnings from a forest monk
Why we love it
"I May Be Wrong by Björn Natthiko Lindeblad was probably the best book I read last year. Everybody walking on this planet might have certain ideas about how their life is going to turn out, but regardless of your belief system – or lack thereof – it rarely turns out the way we plan. Björn's words taught me to question everything I thought I already knew, and how to accept things we simply cannot control.
"While I'm not planning on escaping to the jungles of Thailand and becoming a forest monk anytime soon, reading about Björn's experiences was captivating beyond measure. The wisdom he imparts from his learnings and journey through Buddhist education is profound and would serve anybody in any walk of life enormously. Everybody should read this book."
Francesca Shillcock, HELLO! Senior Features Writer
This book, penned by Swedish former forest monk Björn Natthiko Lindeblad is a favourite of Fearne Cotton, who says it brought her much “joy and comfort”. Björn shares his advice on how to face the uncertainty and doubt that is a natural part of life, with the premise that we don't choose our thoughts or what pops into our minds but we can choose whether or not to believe them.
The life-saving book about what it means to be truly alive
Why we love it
“I was going through a depressive episode in my life when the blunt title caught me in a book store and I'm so glad I decided to pick it up. The easily digestible book made me feel a lot more secure as I battled through my own depression, Often platitudes of support from friends are nice, but don't really get to the nub of anything, whereas with this I was able to associate with the stories being told and was able to feel less like a failure when it came to things like wasting a day in a stupor, realising this was normal for people like me.
“While I have only read the book the one time, whenever I move around, I always make sure that I have it close to me, just in case I'm in the position again that I need to be reminded why to stay alive.”
Matthew Moore, HELLO! Online News Writer
A Sunday Times Bestseller loved by both Joanna Lumley and Stephen Fry, Matt Haig’s memoir is an manual of how to live better, love better and generally just make the most of your time on earth.
The ultimate book for living with less stress and more joy
Why we love it
"If you're on the hunt for peace, to shush your inner critic and you want to stop sweating the small stuff, this book is the one you need to pick up. It will change your life forever if you do the work that's required. I'm not quite 'there' yet, but I think with time I might be. It's the ultimate book teaching us what we know deep down, that life is for living and not stressing."
Leanne Bayley, HELLO! Lifestyle and Commerce Director
Think of Emma Pears as like a UK-based Mel Robbins, she's an in-demand public speaker and she wants people to live with less stress and more joy. With this book, she introduces us all to the WDIM framework, which is not too dis-similar to Mel Robbins' Let Them Theory. Emma wants you to ask yourself "What does it matter?" and have the courage to act on your answer.
The self help book that will help you achieve more in less time
Why we love it
“In this age of digital distraction, the ability to focus for extended periods and produce work of genuine value and quality can undoubtedly set you apart. This outstanding book from Professor Cal Newport shows that developing your ability to do ‘deep work’ not only allows you to flourish professionally, it can also make you happier and less anxious.”
Simon Mundie, motivational speaker and author
Deep Work has sold over 1 million copies and has over 30k positive reviews on Amazon. To put it simply - it aims to help you get better at what you do, achieve more in less time and sharpen your vision. There are some surprising suggestions too - that you should practice being bored and that most serious professionals should quid social media.
The ultimate guide to living in the moment
Why we love it
"This masterpiece has topped the charts for over a decade now, and for good reason. Tolle shows that the only time we ever actually experience is now, even as much of the stress we experience is created by thoughts about past and future. By recognising that thoughts aren’t facts, and that the voice in our head isn’t who we fundamentally are, we can experience an enlightened way of being."
Simon Mundie, motivational speaker and author
Don’t be put off by the fact this book was published two decades ago - it’s couldn't be more relevant today, in fact Oprah keeps a copy by her bed and at the time of writing, it was the number one best seller in Amazon’s spiritualist category. It has over 58k positive ratings and counting.
The raw and honest self help book that’ll help you get grounded
Why we love it
"Everything about this book just clicked with me. I found it so easy to read, and was nodding along all the way - everything just made perfect sense. I’m all about positive thinking, but the message that sometimes you just need to be honest that “sh*t is f*cked and we have to live with it” really resonated with me.
"This is a great book for anyone who wants to learn how to embrace their fears and faults as well as confronting painful truths. Once you get to the end you really realise that there are only so many things you can give a f*ck about, so you need to figure out which ones really matter.”
Katherine Robinson, HELLO! Senior Lifestyle Editor
This generation-defining New York Times bestseller has a whopping 145k positive reviews on Amazon, where it’s seldom out of the top 20 most bought books across all categories. It’s sold over 6 million copies.
The manual for making believing in yourself a daily habit
Why we love it
"I know Mel Robbins is uber famous these days thanks to her podcast and her viral posts on social media, but I've been a part of the fan club for a long long time. I am one of the devoted listeners of The Mel Robbins podcast and have read all of her books. Do I have my sh*t together? Absolutely not. But I think knowing stuff helps, and I do try to put into practice some of the lessons I've learnt along the way."
"In The High 5 Habit, this is a manual if you've lost some of your spark. Mel teaches you how to start high fiving the most important person in your life, the one who is staring back at you in the mirror: YOURSELF." Leanne Bayley, HELLO!
Using her science-backed knowledge, personal stories and the real-life results that The High 5 Habit is creating in people's lives around the world (and you'll meet a lot of them throughout this book), Mel Robbins will teach you how to make believing in yourself a daily habit so that you can operate with the confidence that your goals and dreams demand.
If you're looking to change your attitude, your mindset and your behaviour, you might want to consider this book.
Meet the expert
Simon Mundie is the author of Champion Thinking: How To Find Success Without Losing Yourself. He also hosts The Life Lessons Podcast, and is a motivational speaker and renowned broadcaster, including for BBC Radio and television. In his new book, he lays out eight important lessons for achieving success that he's learnt from the sports legends he's crossed paths with. "Drawing on interviews I’ve done on The Life Lessons Podcast with many of the world’s sporting champions, psychologists, philosophers and scientists, I explore what sport can teach us about life and how best to live it," he says of what readers can expect to find in the book
"While ‘success’ and winning can be underwhelming, the experience of being in flow is inherently enjoyable. Why is that? Because as thoughts about past and future disappear, so does our sense of ‘self’. And we love it when that happens! The implication of this is that we are looking in the wrong direction for lasting peace and fulfilment; the joy we are looking for is actually so close, we tend to overlook it. I point to where it can be found."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/shopping/512014/best-motivational-self-help-books/
| 2024-01-25T16:27:10Z
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Chelsea are more interested in winning trophies than in signing new players, manager Mauricio Pochettino said on Thursday.
Chelsea suffered a dismal start to the season but things have started to look up for Pochettino's side who have won their last three league games and reached the League Cup final by thrashing second-tier Middlesbrough in midweek.
The current transfer window closes next week, and despite the fact that Chelsea are currently ninth in the Premier League table, they are not desperately seeking new players.
"We are desperate to win a title, not to sign players, I'm happy with the squad," Pochettino told a press conference ahead of their FA Cup fourth-round tie with Aston Villa.
"But we know the last week has the most action and we need to be ready for anything that can happen in the squad."
Pochettino confirmed that forward Christopher Nkunku will not be available for Friday's game with Villa, as he recovers from a hip injury, but the manager refused to comment on whether they were looking to sign a striker.
"Too many rumours, player in, player out, at the moment, nothing to say," the manager said.
"We work really hard about different things in different areas. We will communicate if something happens.
Defender Malo Gusto is also unavailable for the game with Villa, but both he and Nkunku could return for Chelsea's next league game with Liverpool on Wednesday.
One signing who has made an immediate impact is Cole Palmer, who arrived from Manchester City in September and has scored nine league goals at Chelsea and netted two in their League Cup semi-final 6-1 win over Middlesbrough on Tuesday.
"We are optimistic always when we sign a player. It's true he's doing fantastic," Pochettino said.
"After six or seven months he's doing a very good job. We're so happy with his impact. He is helping the team to achieve things that we wanted."
Ben Chilwell started the game against Middlesbrough, and came on as a substitute in Chelsea's last league game having been out since September with a hamstring injury, but is not certain to start against Villa.
"We are assessing him to see if he can cope with another game in three days," Pochettino said.
"It's not a mental problem. It's not only convincing him to trust his body, it's to trust with us and the way we work, but he's always very optimistic.
"We need to be careful, the player always wants to play."
Chelsea will face Liverpool in the League Cup final and now hope to progress in the FA Cup, but they host a Villa side who came away from Stamford Bridge with a 1-0 league win back in September. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/pochettino-desperate-for-titles-not-new-players-at-chelsea
| 2024-01-25T16:27:11Z
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From Gemma Owen’s necklace to Samie's coveted chain, I’ve become something of a Love Island necklace connoisseur – and it only seems fitting that I’m bringing you the intel on where to buy Love Island All Stars' Molly Smith’s name necklace. As the LI drama continues onscreen (are you team Callum or Tom?), all I’ve cared about is tracking down Molly’s gold Arabic name necklace, and true to form, I’ve found it.
Molly’s trending £36 necklace is a more affordable buy than Gemma Owen’s iconic Tiffany necklace. She’s been toting the gold chain almost daily in the South African Love Island villa, and a scan of her socials shows it’s nothing new – she’s been wearing the necklace for months, including while loved up with ex-Callum in their Manchester home.
Molly’s necklace, called the Custom Arabic Name Necklace, features a classic gold link chain with Arabic calligraphy, spelling ‘Nelly’ after her dog, a Pomeranian she used to share with her Love Island ex. (They have another dog, Winnie, who Callum has custody of; Molly has custody of Nelly, FYI).
The Series 6 Love Islander has caused something of a stampede among LI fans, with searches of ‘arabic name necklaces’ increasing by 64%, according to jewellery brand PRYA.
How I chose the best Arabic name necklaces like Love Islander Molly
- Style: I’ve tracked down lookalikes of Molly’s necklace, which offer similar options to Molly’s.
- Price: As Molly’s necklace is reasonably affordable, I’ve included a range of price points. Some are less expensive than Molly’s, but some are pricier which reflects the metal they’re made from.
- Availability: As I said, this is a trend that’s spiking right now and many necklaces like Molly’s are out of stock. I’ve only included those that are available at the time of publishing.
Fancy coupling up with a necklace like Molly? I've found a few for to gravitate towards...
Arabic name necklace – why we love the trend
According to jewellery brand PRYA, the Arabic name necklace trend first came into the zeitgeist around 2021. "While we can’t deny that Arabic name necklaces have been around for years, sported by many a stylish Arabian woman and several celebrities, we didn’t see this trend explode until 2021 when it became the hottest trend for celebrities and influencers.
"Some of the biggest names in fashion, beauty and music have been seen sporting this elegant style. The Kardashians, as always the trendsetters, have been wearing Arabic Nameplate Necklaces for years, with both Kim and Khloe rocking the classic style." Other celebrities they have cited as wearing an Arabic name necklace include Rihanna and Beyonce, who wore one in her Las Vegas show three years ago.
And of course, Molly’s name necklace isn’t a new trend as shoppers, including me, have been enjoying personalised jewellery for years. I first became attuned to the trend after Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw’s famous ‘Carrie’ necklace, which she wore throughout the seasons, plus the sequel And Just Like That.
That nameplate trend has since evolved into name necklaces becoming the norm, and I myself have a number of personalised pieces of jewellery, ranging from a necklace spelling my daughter’s name to initial studs and bracelets. For me, it’s like a constant reminder of my loved ones and if someone asks me the meaning behind the necklace, it gives me the chance to chat about my daughter.
Ophelia Alickaj, founder Crystal Haze Jewelry, reflects on the style: "The name necklaces are often made of words that are essential parts of our lives and that we will hang on to for a long time. It is a nostalgia moment as this style of necklaces usually are made of statements that you stand for your whole life."
Jessica Cadzow-Collins, founder of Juraster, added: "It's about who you are - self-expression, self worth, the individual wearing the necklace and not the other way around. It pushes back at fashion trends and corporate brand designs."
I see it as no longer a trend, but a classic piece of forever jewellery, perfectly capturing a moment in time, an ode to someone who means enough to the wearer to well, wear their name. And if it’s your own name you’re sporting, like SATC Carrie, then you do you.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/shopping/512017/molly-smith-arabic-name-necklace-on-love-island-tracked-it-down/
| 2024-01-25T16:27:16Z
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AL WAKRAH, Qatar - South Korea skipper Son Heung-min urged media and the fans to avoid unnecessary criticism of his team mates after they scraped through to the last 16 of the Asian Cup on Thursday when the twice champions finished second in their group.
South Korea were considered among the pre-tournament favourites but they have not been at their best in Qatar having conceded goals in all their matches, finishing the group stage with a 3-3 draw against Malaysia.
Forward Son said some of the comments his team had received over the past few days were not worth repeating.
"I would like to ask for a favour ... to protect the players during the tournament and just to help the team. It is really sad, it really hurts a lot in the locker room," he told reporters about the criticism they had received.
"Some of the boys are being criticised or receiving comments that at times cross the line a little. It really hurts as a team mate. It really hurts to see these boys in pain and also getting this criticism.
"We are working very hard on the pitch. We are trying to give everything for the fans, for the country ... Please protect the players, my team mates and the team.
"Before they are a player, they are a person. They have families back home, with kids."
South Korea finished a point behind Bahrain in Group E and Son said it was a wake-up call for Juergen Klinsmann's side as they look to end a 64-year wait for a third title.
"When you go into the tournament, there are no favourites because there will always be underdogs that catch you out," Son said.
"For Asian football, it is really good that this competition is becoming even harder. Everybody is more interested in this competition now, which is a very good sign.
"It was a tough result to take but it's a big credit to the Malaysian team, they fought until the end and I was very pleased for Asian football." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/some-criticism-of-south-korea-at-asian-cup-has-crossed-a-line-says-son
| 2024-01-25T16:27:21Z
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