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MOSCOW - Allegations that some staff from the U.N. refugee agency for Palestinians (UNRWA) were involved in the Oct. 7 attack on Israel should be investigated, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Tuesday.
Some countries including the United States, Germany and Britain have paused their funding to the agency, a critical source of support for people in Gaza, after the allegations by Israel.
The agency said on Friday it had opened an investigation into several employees and severed ties with those people. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/russia-calls-for-investigation-into-allegations-against-unrwa-staff
| 2024-01-30T13:17:26Z
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Senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev told Japan on Tuesday it would have to drop territorial claims to a group of Pacific islands if it wanted to conclude a peace treaty with Russia formally ending World War Two.
The blunt remarks by Medvedev, a former president who is deputy chairman of Russia's Security Council, over what Moscow calls the Kuril islands are likely to anger Japan which lays claim to four of the southernmost islands, which it calls the Northern Territories.
Russia, the main successor state to the Soviet Union, and Japan have never signed a peace treaty formally ending their hostilities during World War Two, with the islands remaining the primary stumbling block.
The islands are located off Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, and were seized by the Soviet Union at the end of World War Two.
Diplomats on both sides once spoke of the possibility of reviving a Soviet-era draft agreement that envisaged returning two of the four islands to Japan as part of a peace deal.
But Russia withdrew from peace treaty talks with Japan and froze joint economic projects related to the islands in 2022 because of Japanese sanctions over Russia's war in Ukraine and relations have soured further since.
Medvedev said he was respondidipng to comments by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida who he said had spoken in favour of a peace treaty with Russia.
"Nobody's against the peace treaty on the understanding that ... the 'territorial question' is closed once and for all in accordance with the constitution of Russia," Medvedev said on his official X account.
In 2020, Russia's constitution was amended to bar handing over territory to a foreign power.
Medvedev, who styles himself as one of the Kremlin's most hardline anti-Western hawks, said Japan would also have to accept that Russia would develop the Kuril islands and station new weapons there.
"We don't give a damn about the 'feelings of the Japanese' concerning the so-called 'Northern Territories'. These are not disputed territories but Russia," said Medvedev.
"And those samurai who feel especially sad can end their life in a traditional Japanese way, by committing seppuku (Japanese ritualistic suicide by disembowelment). If they dare, of course."
Medvedev accused Japan of cosying up to the United States despite the fact that the U.S. military had dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945.
Russia said in December it regarded joint military exercises by Japan, the United States and Australia near Hokkaido to be a "potential security threat". It has complained about Japan - with U.S. help - expanding its military infrastructure and increasing arms purchases.
Japan has periodically expressed unease about Russia beefing up its military infrastructure on the disputed island chain. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/russia-to-japan-drop-territorial-claim-if-you-want-a-peace-treaty
| 2024-01-30T13:17:36Z
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PINGTUNG, Taiwan – Taiwan’s air force showed off its armed-to-the-teeth submarine hunters, and early warning and control aircraft on Jan 30, demonstrating how it keeps watch on the skies and waters around the Chinese-claimed island.
China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, has over the past four years regularly sent warplanes and warships into the skies and waters around the island as it seeks to assert sovereignty claims that the government in Taipei rejects.
Taiwan’s air force – dwarfed by China’s – but well-armed with mostly American equipment, has been at the front lines of responding to these missions and regularly scrambles jets to shadow and warn off Chinese aircraft and ships.
On a defence ministry-organised media visit to the Pingtung airbase in southern Taiwan, the air force displayed its Lockheed Martin P-3C Orion anti-submarine aircraft and Northrop Grumman-built E-2K Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft.
Crews demonstrated attaching missiles under the wing of an Orion, which can be armed with torpedoes, depth charges and United States-made Maverick air-to-ground missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
“We uphold the concept of integrating training for war under the guidance of the defence ministry. We are doing very solid training, which is enough to cope with various situations,” said training officer Tsai Tsung-yu.
Taiwan operates 12 Orions, which the US government approved the sale of in 2007 for almost US$2 billion (S$2.7 billion). The first aircraft, surplus US Navy stock, entered service with Taiwan in 2013 and can stay airborne for up to 12 hours.
The air force also conducted fly-bys with one of their E-2K Hawkeye aircraft. Taiwan has six of the planes, but one was damaged in 2022 during a landing accident and is still being repaired.
They have long-range detection abilities, allowing them to direct intercepts from the air and track low-altitude targets flying below the range of ground-based radars.
Their Pingtung base gives the aircraft easy access not only to the Taiwan Strait but also to the Bashi Channel.
That strategic waterway separates Taiwan from the Philippines and connects the South China Sea with the Pacific. Taiwan has reported Chinese warships and warplanes frequently passing through the Bashi Channel. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/taiwan-air-force-shows-off-its-sub-hunting-early-warning-prowess
| 2024-01-30T13:17:47Z
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PINGTUNG, Taiwan - Taiwan's air force showed off its armed-to-the-teeth submarine hunters and early warning and control aircraft on Tuesday, demonstrating how it keeps watch on the skies and waters around the Chinese-claimed island.
China, which views Taiwan as its own territory, has over the past four years regularly sent warplanes and warships into the skies and waters around the island as it seeks to assert sovereignty claims that the government in Taipei rejects.
Taiwan's air force, dwarfed by China's but well-armed with mostly U.S. equipment, has been at the front lines of responding to these missions and regularly scrambles to shadow and warn away Chinese aircraft and ships.
On a defence ministry-organised media visit to the Pingtung air base in southern Taiwan, the air force displayed its Lockheed Martin P-3C Orion anti-submarine aircraft and Northrop Grumman-built E-2K Hawkeye early warning and control aircraft.
Crews demonstrated attaching missiles under the wing of an Orion, which can be armed with torpedoes, depth charges and U.S.-made Maverick air-to-ground missiles and Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
"We uphold the concept of integrating training for war under the guidance of the defence ministry. We are doing very solid training, which is enough to cope with various situations," said training officer Tsai Tsung-yu.
Taiwan operates 12 Orions, which the U.S. government approved the sale of in 2007 for almost $2 billion. The first aircraft, surplus U.S. Navy stock, entered service with Taiwan in 2013 and can stay airborne for up to 12 hours.
The air force also conducted flybys with one of their E-2K Hawkeye aircraft. Taiwan has six of the planes, but one was damaged in 2022 during a landing accident and is still being repaired.
They have long-range detection abilities, allowing them to direct intercepts from the air and track low-altitude targets flying below the range of ground-based radars.
Their Pingtung base gives the aircraft easy access not only to the Taiwan Strait but also to the Bashi Channel.
That strategic waterway separates Taiwan from the Philippines and connects the South China Sea with the Pacific. Taiwan has reported Chinese warships and warplanes frequently passing through the Bashi Channel. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/taiwan-air-force-shows-off-its-sub-hunting-early-warning-prowess
| 2024-01-30T13:17:57Z
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BRUSSELS - The euro zone economy narrowly avoided a technical recession in the second half of 2023 but stagnated in the final three months of the year, official data showed on Jan 30.
The singe-currency area’s economy has been hit by many factors including higher interest rates, a cost-of-living crisis hitting households spending and weakening global demand.
The zero-per cent quarter-on-quarter figure for the October-to-December period beat forecasts.
Analysts for Bloomberg and financial data firm FactSet had predicted a contraction of 0.1 per cent in the fourth quarter.
There were fears that, if the predictions had been correct, that would have meant two consecutive quarters of contraction – the threshold for a technical recession.
The EU’s Eurostat data agency also recorded no growth in 27-country bloc – including members that do not use the euro – over the October-December period after a contraction of 0.1 per cent in the third quarter.
Economists predict the economic stagnation will continue.
“We think that it will flatline in the first half of this year too as the effects of past monetary tightening continue to feed through and fiscal policy becomes more restrictive,” said Mr Jack Allen-Reynolds of Capital Economics, an economic research firm.
He added that the euro zone dodging a technical recession was “just semantics”.
“The big picture is that euro zone GDP has been flat since Q3 2022 when gas prices surged and the ECB (European Central Bank) started raising interest rates,” he said.
Energy prices soared after Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and Europe’s subsequent shift to different energy sources after relying on Russia for many years.
The data also showed the EU and the euro zone economies grew by 0.5 per cent in the whole of 2023, compared with the previous year.
That figure is slightly lower than the European Commission’s forecast in November of 0.6 per cent growth in 2023.
The commission at the time predicted the euro zone economy would grow by 1.2 per cent in 2024. But officials this month suggested it could be lower.
The EU’s economy commissioner, Paolo Gentiloni, said there were downside risks to economic growth because of “geopolitical tensions”, especially in the Middle East.
The commission will present its latest forecasts in February 2024.
The euro zone economy was weighed down in 2023 by the performance of the continent’s powerhouse Germany.
The German economy shrank 0.3 per cent in the final quarter of 2023, Eurostat said.
Germany has been hit hard by multiple factors including meek consumption, falling orders for exports and confusion over the government budget.
German Finance Minister Christian Lindner dismissed accusations that his country was the “sick man” of Europe during an event at the World Economic Forum earlier in January 2024.
“Germany is a tired man after a short night and the low-growth expectations are partly a wake-up call,” he said.
France, the EU’s second-biggest economy, recorded zero growth in the final two quarters of 2023 while Italy, the third-largest, expanded by just 0.2 per cent in the fourth quarter.
Ireland’s economy recorded the biggest contraction for the period, shrinking 0.7 per cent.
There are hopes the European Central Bank will start cutting interest rates before the northern hemisphere’s summer, although ECB chief Christine Lagarde said last week it was too early to discuss such action.
On Feb 1, Eurostat will publish inflation data for January, after the annual rate reached 2.9 per cent in December. That is still above the ECB’s two-per cent target. AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/euro-zone-narrowly-dodges-recession
| 2024-01-30T13:18:08Z
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SINGAPORE - Singapore state investment firm Temasek Holdings’ unit Temasek Financial (I) is planning to issue 750 million Chinese yuan (S$141.5 million) of 3.2 per cent guaranteed offshore bonds due 2029, according to a statement filed to the Singapore Exchange.
The bond, which is guaranteed by Temasek and will be rated “Aaa” by Moody’s, will be issued under Temasek Financial (I)‘s US$25 billion guaranteed global medium term note programme, according to the statement filed late on Jan 30.
The issue allows Temasek to expand its “investor base and access a new liquidity pool at competitive pricing”, said a Temasek spokesperson on Jan 30.
“We continually evaluate funding opportunities across the different markets, factoring in considerations such as our funding requirements, market conditions and other organisational objectives,” the spokesperson added.
The bond is expected to be issued on Feb 6 and listed on the Singapore Exchange on Feb 7, the statement showed. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/singapore-s-temasek-to-issue-1415m-5-year-offshore-chinese-yuan-bond
| 2024-01-30T13:18:18Z
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SINGAPORE - It may look like a verified Telegram account, with a tick set in a blue star – a badge that the messaging platform uses to identify official sources.
But an icon resembling Telegram’s verification badge has become yet another trick to dupe victims in investment scams, The Straits Times has found.
In January, ST learnt that the Singapore Exchange (SGX) and the Republic’s sovereign wealth fund GIC were being impersonated in Telegram “investment” groups with hundreds of members.
ST found at least seven such groups, with the largest containing more than 1,700 members.
One group administrator, impersonating SGX chief executive Loh Boon Chye, used a customised emoji that mimicked Telegram’s verification badge, a blue checkmark that the messaging platform gives only to large and active official channels, groups and bots. Telegram users have to pay to display an emoji next to their name.
Checks showed that scammers impersonating representatives from the affected financial institutions would dangle lucrative investments that allegedly yield profits within hours.
The ruse is reinforced by others in these groups who claim they have withdrawn their profits, providing screenshots of these transactions as proof.
Those who want to invest are asked to provide their personal information, including their name, bank account, phone number and e-mail.
The fake Mr Loh told ST, posing as an interested investor, that the money would be transferred to a bank account of the group’s “treasurer from SGX”.
By Jan 30, some of the groups had changed their names or were no longer available on the platform.
Contacted, an SGX Group spokeswoman said on Jan 29 that it does not provide stock recommendations, nor collects deposits for investments.
“We also do not run any chat groups on social media platforms, and do not communicate one-on-one via Telegram or WhatsApp,” she said.
The spokeswoman said SGX works with a cyber-security agency and social media and messaging platform administrators to monitor and remove social media pages, websites, apps and chat groups which misuse or impersonate SGX Group and its employees.
She added that the firm has reported known fake accounts to the authorities, like the police and Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, especially when there are potentially fraudulent activities involving fund transfers.
The spokeswoman said: “We urge investors to stay alert and be wary of scams that can take the form of online stock recommendations from unofficial sources or informal chat groups.
“Some scammers use compromised or spoofed social media accounts to spread and disseminate false information.”
GIC, meanwhile, had warned the public in 2022 of Telegram groups impersonating the fund.
The global investor, formerly known as the Government of Singapore Investment Corporation, said on its website that it does not provide investment services to the public, and would not respond to any complaints or queries about such fraud or scam.
The emergence of these fraudulent Telegram groups comes amid an increase in scam and cybercrime cases since 2019, with investment scam victims ranking second in terms of average losses to scams, according to Singapore’s latest cybercrime statistics.
Investment scams caused an average loss of about $60,000 in the first half of 2023, said the police in September 2023, adding that these victims tend to believe these “investments” were genuine after receiving small profits.
Once larger amounts of money or cryptocurrencies were transferred to scammers, the victims would realise they could not withdraw their earnings, or the scammers would become uncontactable.
To assess the reliability of a financial institution, the police has advised the public to check and clarify information against sources such as the Financial Institutions Directory, the Register of Representatives and the Investor Alert List on the Monetary Authority of Singapore’s website.
How to avoid falling into an investment scam
- Be wary of stock tips from unofficial sources.
- Investors cannot trade directly with SGX. They can trade only through licensed institutions or brokers.
- Subscription and redemption of Singapore Savings Bonds, T-Bills and other bonds are done through licensed banks. SGX will never ask for funding of trading accounts. SGX subsidiary The Central Depository only safe keeps assets for the group’s investors.
- Do not forward rumours and false information.
- Do not use or invite others to join unverified online channels and chat groups.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/scammers-use-fake-blue-ticks-on-telegram-to-mimic-sgx-financial-professionals
| 2024-01-30T13:18:28Z
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SINGAPORE - A 12-year-old girl died on Jan 30 after being hit by a van in Taman Jurong, just minutes away from two schools.
The van driver, a 23-year-old man, was arrested for careless driving causing death, said the police.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) said it was alerted to the fatal accident, which occurred on Yuan Ching Road, at about 3.50pm. It said the schoolgirl was pronounced dead at the scene by a paramedic.
One other person was taken to Ng Teng Fong General Hospital.
Jurong Secondary School and Yuvabharathi International School are both close to the scene of the accident.
The Straits Times understands the victim studied in an international school.
This comes a week after the death of a four-year-old girl, Zara Mei Orlic, who was hit by a car on her way home from school in the River Valley area.
The accident on Jan 23 prompted residents to call for speed bumps and other safety measures to be installed at the site of the accident, Institution Hill, a 150m stretch of road with a bend and a steep hill.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/girl-12-killed-in-accident-in-taman-jurong-driver-arrested
| 2024-01-30T13:18:39Z
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SINGAPORE – The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has ordered the importer of Kitchen Joy Crispy Battered Shrimp to recall the product after detecting gluten in it.
The packaging on the product from Indonesia indicates the shrimp is gluten-free, said SFA in a statement on Jan 30.
The recall of the affected batches by importer CP Foods Singapore is ongoing, added the agency. The affected batches have the “best before” dates of March 28 to 30, 2024.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products and are intolerant of or allergic to gluten should not consume them, said SFA.
Those who have consumed the products should seek medical advice if they have concerns about their health.
Gluten is a type of protein naturally found in wheat and other grains. It is typically harmless, but poses a risk to those who are intolerant of or allergic to it, and they might experience fatigue, bloating or a skin rash after consuming gluten.
“Under Singapore’s food regulations, the use of false or misleading claims on pre-packed food products which do not reflect the true nature of their contents is prohibited,” SFA said.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/sfa-recalls-gluten-free-shrimp-product-from-indonesia-after-gluten-detected
| 2024-01-30T13:18:49Z
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Former Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic has left Sevilla following a second spell at the club ahead of his move to Saudi Arabia's Al-Shabab, the LaLiga side said on Tuesday.
"We have agreed a deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Shabab Club for the transfer of Ivan Rakitic, who will bring his second spell with us to a close," Sevilla said in a statement.
Rakitic, who first played for the Spanish club from 2011-2014 following a move from Bundesliga side Schalke 04, returned to Sevilla in September 2020 after six years at Barcelona and last year helped his team win a record-extending seventh Europa League title.
The 35-year-old earned more than 100 caps for Croatia between 2007-2019. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/rakitic-leaves-sevilla-to-sign-with-saudis-al-shabab
| 2024-01-30T13:19:00Z
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DOHA - Four-times champions Japan have yet to convince they are Asian Cup favourites after finishing second in their group but coach Hajime Moriyasu said on Tuesday that he considers the criticism of his team as a mark of respect ahead of their last-16 game.
Japan are the continent's top-ranked side but finished second in Group D behind Iraq after losing to the west Asian side while Moriyasu's side also failed to keep a clean sheet after conceding goals against Vietnam and Indonesia.
"It's a sign of respect when people say we're struggling at the Asian Cup because they have such high expectations," Moriyasu told reporters ahead of Wednesday's last-16 clash against Bahrain.
"We know we can play better but Asian teams are getting better and they are more competitive. The gap between top teams and lower teams have been cut, that's my impression."
Bahrain were surprise Group E toppers after South Korea finished second and avoided a heavyweight clash between the two east Asian teams, but Moriyasu is wary of the threat of the Gulf nation who reached the knockout stage for just the third time.
"Bahrain are a very talented side, they have individual talents and they work collectively as a unit. They can not only counter-attack but they have talented players up front that can play good football," Moriyasu said.
"We have to learn from our mistakes in the first three games but that doesn't mean we have any worries in the defensive line. I'm confident my players will play up to 100% of their potential."
Moriyasu also does not want the match to go to penalties, especially after they were knocked out in a shootout at the 2022 World Cup where three players missed their spot kicks.
"We lost on penalties to Croatia at the World Cup so we always have to improve that, but what's important is we don't go to penalties. We need to finish the game 90 minutes," he said, adding that he had not yet decided who would take penalties.
Bahrain coach Juan Antonio Pizzi said they will look to control the game and possession against Japan while the Spaniard also has a chance at redemption after losing to Moriyasu's side in the same round in 2019 when he was in charge of Saudi Arabia.
"The pressure (on Japan) is important and it could play into our hands," Pizzi said.
"Regarding avenging the loss in 2019, this is football and it gives us the opportunity to patch our wounds. Some wounds heal on their own... However, life goes on and we must always be ready to accept what life throws at us.
"The psychological aspect is important for players especially when we win matches and qualify, the morale is high. Victory is good motivation, hopefully we will be able to use that morale to come out victorious tomorrow." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/sign-of-respect-when-critics-say-japan-are-struggling-at-asian-cup-moriyasu
| 2024-01-30T13:19:10Z
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ROME - Italian premium beer brand Peroni Nastro Azzurro has entered a multi-year partnership with Ferrari's Formula One team, the latest move in the shifting sponsorship alliances in elite motor racing.
The five-year agreement with Peroni's 0.0% non-alcoholic version of the beer -- for which financial details were not disclosed -- starts this year and includes branding on Ferrari cars and driver uniforms.
"Formula 1 was a territory that we have already covered, that we knew, and with this partnership we return to Italy, teaming with an Italian brand," Birra Peroni Marketing Director Viviana Manera told Reuters at the launch of the deal in Rome.
Peroni, part of Japanese brewer Asahi Group Holdings, was previously with racing team Aston Martin for three seasons.
The deal is a key part of Asahi's strategy to increase consumer demand for its alcohol-free beverages, with the aim of making these products 20% of its portfolio.
As part of the partnership, Peroni will run a 2,024 bottle limited-edition product called Tifosi, or supporters in Italian.
The alliance with Ferrari was partially revealed last year when the team said it had signed a deal starting in 2024 with Asahi Europe without, however, specifying which particular brand would be involved.
Spanish beer brand Estrella Galicia left Ferrari earlier this month after being a partner of the Italian team, and its driver Carlos Sainz, for many years, to rejoin former partner McLaren Racing.
Saudi Arabian energy giant Aramco in December signed a new five-year agreement to become exclusive title sponsor of the Aston Martin team.
The 2024 F1 season starts in Bahrain on March 2. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/formula-one/italys-peroni-teams-up-with-ferrari-in-new-partnership
| 2024-01-30T13:19:20Z
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PARIS - Paris' public transport system (RATP) will provide more than 2,000 agents with artificial intelligence-supported translation devices to help hundreds of thousands of visitors navigate the capital's network during this year's Olympics.
The handheld Tradivia device can translate between French and 16 different languages, including Mandarin, Arabic and Korean, with the text appearing on a screen as well as being read out loud.
The service will remain after the July 26 to Aug. 11 Olympics in Paris, one of the world's top destinations for international visitors.
"We will have visitors from all over the world who will come ... It is important to provide them with the right information," RATP representative Gregoire de Lasteyrie told reporters.
"Being able to speak to them in as many languages as possible and helping them find their way in Paris is extremely important."
Metro workers said the device would also give them more confidence.
"We no longer have this apprehension, this apprehension of approaching visitors," Paris metro worker Raphael Gassette said.
"We no longer have this fear of thinking 'oh no we're not going to understand each other', and here we know straight away, with regards to the languages here, to press ... and immediately have clear, more precise information and we can be sure that when the visitor leaves, they're satisfied." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/lost-in-translation-not-on-paris-metro-during-summer-games
| 2024-01-30T13:19:31Z
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LAUSANNE, Switzerland - The Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) will still win a medal from the controversial figure skating team event at the 2022 Beijing Olympics after they were demoted from gold to bronze after the disqualification of Kamila Valieva.
It was assumed that Canada, who finished fourth, would be promoted to bronze, but Russia's total score even after Valieva's marks were erased was still a point better than the Canadians, the International Skating Union announced on Tuesday.
Valieva received a four-year doping ban on Monday, effective from December 2021, stripping the ROC of its gold medal in the team event nearly two years after the competition.
In its long-awaited ruling, the Court of Arbitration of Sport (CAS) found Valieva, aged 15 at the time, guilty of committing an anti-doping rule violation that rattled the Beijing Olympics and frustrated competitors who are still waiting for their medals from the event to be allocated.
No medals were awarded in the event at Beijing. The final scores have the United States bumped up to gold with 65 points, with Japan winning silver with 63 and Russia taking bronze with 54, edging Canada by a point. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/russia-dropped-to-bronze-in-2022-olympic-skating-event-after-valieva-ban-canada-remain-fourth
| 2024-01-30T13:19:41Z
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GENEVA - The Russian Olympic Committee said on Tuesday it would appeal against a decision by the International Skating Union that stripped it of a gold medal in the 2022 Olympic figure skating event following Kamila Valieva's doping suspension.
"The Russian Olympic Committee will definitely appeal to CAS (the Court of Arbitration for Sport) on the ISU decision to revise the final standings in the team figure event at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games in Beijing," ROC said. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/russia-to-appeal-loss-of-olympic-gold-after-valieva-doping-ban
| 2024-01-30T13:19:51Z
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SINGAPORE – There will be more playing opportunities for student-athletes at this year’s National School Games (NSG) as part of an expansion of the pool and league competition format introduced in 2023.
While table tennis, tennis and water polo were trialled in 2023 under the new system, the number of sports offered in 2024 will be increased to 10 (badminton, basketball, floorball, football, hockey, netball, rugby, softball, table tennis, and volleyball) for the senior division in primary schools.
The Secondary School C Division, meanwhile, will have nine sports (basketball, floorball, football, hockey, sepak takraw, softball, table tennis, tennis, and water polo) under the new scheme.
Student-athletes in these sports are now guaranteed at least six games in the NSG season, up from the previous minimum of three.
Teacher-coach of volleyball in Xingnan Primary Jason Chua said: “For some schools who are placed in the same group with the powerhouse ones, the students’ confidence will be affected and they get demoralised as they know that they are likely to lose to them and will have a short NSG experience.”
Before 2023, the NSG format featured geographical-based zonal competitions, with schools seeded accordingly and played in groups of four to five teams. Those who do not qualify for the next round were eliminated, marking the end of their season.
The new classification and league system now pits schools of comparable skill level against each other in a classification round, with their seeding determined by results from the previous NSG. Teams that do well in the pool stage will then qualify to compete in a higher-standard league while those that fare poorly in the pool stage will move into a lower-level league. Medals will be awarded across all the various league levels.
Punggol Primary School pupil Alisha Ram, 10, was thrilled at the idea of more time on the pitch with her hockey teammates. She said: “My friends and I are just excited to be playing more games and making new friends from other schools.
“From the start to the end there’ll be around seven to eight games, and even if we don’t win in the middle, like if we lost a few, it wouldn’t matter because we can still play.”
Enrico Marican, a teacher-coach for floorball in Northoaks Primary School, welcomed the new format as he believes it will place less pressure on results and encourage greater participation.
He said: “From a coaching point of view, there will definitely be more confidence to (allow) maximum participation instead of just putting in three, or four, or five better players, playing for a very long period of time.
“With this format, it gives coaches the confidence to allow the other (reserve players) to expose themselves towards this kind of competition as well.”
Punggol Green Primary School’s Nicholas Koh, 11, has been playing badminton since Primary 3 and said the new format will be fairer. The Primary Six pupil added: “With last year’s format, if you encountered very strong opponents at the start, you would be knocked out immediately, then you’d end up feeling very bad.”
The annual NSG features 60,000 student-athletes competing across 29 sports. The Ministry of Education hopes to have all 29 sports under the revised format in 2025 but that is dependent on the feedback from this year’s expanded trial with more sports.
Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, who officially opened the NSG on Jan 30 at the OCBC Arena, said in his speech: “At the NSG, we have made modifications to the competition format in the spirit of providing more equitable competition opportunities for our student-athletes...
“Competitions are only one part of an athletes’ journey. What sets an athlete apart from others is the set of values cultivated from many hours and years of hard work in training. Determination, resilience, respect and teamwork.”
- Additional reporting by Kimberly Kwek and Tan Wei Xuan
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/schools/more-sports-added-to-new-competition-format-for-national-school-games-in-2024
| 2024-01-30T13:20:02Z
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The criticism over moving the Women's Tennis Association Finals to Saudi Arabia represents stereotypical and western-centric views, Saudi ambassador to the United States Reema bint Bandar Al-Saud has said.
The debate over hosting the event in the Gulf country has intensified, especially after notable opposition from tennis greats Chris Evert and Martina Navratilova, who expressed opposition in the Washington Post.
"Like many women around the world, we looked to the legends of tennis as trailblazers and role models... But these champions have turned their back on the very same women they have inspired and it is beyond disappointing," Reema Al-Saud said in a statement on Monday.
"It pained me deeply to read a column in The Washington Post objecting to Saudi Arabia hosting the WTA Finals based on arguments that are outdated stereotypes and western-centric views of our culture.
"Failing to acknowledge the great progress women have made in Saudi Arabia denigrates our remarkable journey... This not only undermines the progress of women in sports, it sadly undermines women, progress as a whole.
Reema Al-Saud is also a member of Saudi Arabia's Olympic Committee and an International Olympic Committee board member. In 2019, she became the first Saudi woman to hold the position of an ambassador and has worked to expand opportunities for women in her country.
In her statement, she insisted that Saudi women are in charge of their personal and financial future and cited the strides Saudi women had made in the field sports, governance, law and business.
"Sports should not be used as a weapon to advance personal bias or agendas... or punish a society that is eager to embrace tennis and help celebrate and grow the sport," she added.
Last August, the men's ATP Tour revealed a five-year agreement with Saudi Arabia to host its Next Gen Finals. However, Evert and Navratilova argued the matter is distinct when it comes to women as the prospective hosts clash with "WTA values".
WTA chief Steve Simon told Reuters that no decision had yet been made over the 2024 edition of the Finals. He also said last year that the kingdom presented "big issues" and the matter is being discussed with various groups.
Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in sports like soccer, Formula One and golf over the last few years. However, critics have accused the country of using sport to cover up its poor record on human rights and equality issues. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/tennis/saudi-ambassador-disappointed-over-western-centric-criticism-of-mulled-wta-finals-move
| 2024-01-30T13:20:12Z
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BRUSSELS -Belgian farmers angry about rising costs, European Union environmental policies and cheap food imports plan to block access roads to the Zeebrugge container port from Tuesday, the port said, confirming a report from financial daily De Tijd.
The protesters plan to bar access to the North Sea port, the country's second-largest, for at least 36 hours from 1400 CET (1300 GMT), the paper reported, citing organisers and police.
"Police services have received information about an action at the Zeebrugge port," a port authority spokesman said. He said it was not clear what the action would entail.
The Belgian protest movement has been boosted by similar action in France, where angry farmers have set up dozens of roadblocks and disrupted traffic around Paris, putting the government under pressure.
Belgian farmers also disrupted traffic during the morning rush hour on Tuesday. One of the blockades was close to the Dutch border on the E19 highway, local media said.
Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo is set to meet with farmers' associations on Tuesday.
"It is important that they are listened to", De Croo told reporters on Tuesday, referring to the challenges farmers face in terms of, among others, sustainability.
He said Belgium, which currently holds the 6-month presidency of the Council of the EU, will discuss a number of European agricultural rules with the European Commission.
The European Commission is set to propose an exemption on Thursday on rules requiring farmers to leave part of their land fallow if they apply for EU subsidies, an EU spokesman said on Tuesday.
The rules on fallow land were part of the grievances that have led to protests by farmers in France, Belgium and elsewhere in recent weeks.
On Monday, Belgian farmers blocked highways in southern Belgium and parked tractors near the EU Parliament in Brussels. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/belgian-farmers-to-block-zeebrugge-port-as-french-protests-spill-over
| 2024-01-30T13:20:22Z
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SAN SALVADOR - El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, who has described himself as the "World's Coolest Dictator," has in less than five years transformed El Salvador from a country infamous for its record on murder and gangs to a nation with one of the lowest homicide rates in the Americas.
That record means he is all but certain to be re-elected in a presidential election on Sunday for another five-year term - despite a constitutional bar on immediate re-election, voter worries about the economy, and criticism of his draconian crackdown on civil and human rights.
Under him, more than 2% of the adult population of the Central American country is behind bars and several constitutional rights have been shelved, prompting critics to call him a modern day autocrat.
But Salvadorans weary of years of gang violence can live in ways unimaginable before.
Once barred from going to neighborhoods controlled by rival gangs, residents can now freely move around. They can open businesses without paying crushing extortion fees. They can play with their children or sit with friends outside past sunset.
They may be torn over the erosion of civil liberties, but many say they will still support Bukele.
"Why switch leaders? To go back to the same? We're happy without the gangs and he needs power to keep making change," said Elmer Martinez, a 53-year-old construction worker in the capital San Salvador.
Under Bukele, security forces can now arrest anyone without a warrant on evidence as flimsy as an anonymous tip, the government has unfettered access to private communications, and detainees can be held without charge.
Rights groups have denounced the arbitrary arrests of innocent people, torture, and deaths of prisoners in custody.
"They can take anyone at any time and do whatever they want," said Laura, a teacher who declined to give her last name for fear of reprisal. "This isn't democracy."
Still, she said she planned to vote for Bukele, adding that for her there were "no good options."
A January 2024 opinion poll from the University of Central America's public opinion institute showed 82% of voters supporting Bukele.
At just 4% in polls, the next closest candidate is Manuel "Chino" Flores for the legacy left-wing Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front (FMLN), which ran the country for 10 years prior to Bukele.
With approval ratings that any sitting president would envy, Bukele has become an inspiration for hardline crackdowns on crime elsewhere in Latin America.
"Bukele proved a 'zero tolerance' model suspending rights works - and quickly," said Amparo Marroquin of the University of Central America. "Now others in Latin America want rapid results in security and the polls, and along with that comes more power in the executive."
MEDIA MACHINE
Bukele, a 42-year-old former publicist, has alongside the gang crackdown sought to project an image of a transformed, modern nation.
He made El Salvador the world's first to accept bitcoin as legal tender and is a regular on Instagram and TikTok. Rejecting suits in favor of jeans with tight crew-neck sweaters, he set the tone for his presidency when he opened his address to the U.N. General Assembly in 2019 by taking a selfie posted to Twitter, now known as X.
His popularity has been reinforced by a powerful media machine that includes teams of paid internet trolls who flood social networks with government propaganda while whitewashing controversy, manipulating facts, drowning out dissent and targeting journalists and political opponents.
Bukele has warned that a vote for the opposition would mean a return to the past, when El Salvador was known as the "world's most dangerous country."
"The opposition will be able to achieve its true and only plan, to free the gang members," Bukele said in a video weeks before the election.
The front page of government newspaper Diario El Salvador on Jan. 23 read: "War against the gangs could be reversed if the opposition wins more deputies."
The opposition fiercely denies this. It has warned Bukele is chipping away at El Salvador's young democracy in a country that fought a civil war from 1979 to 1992 to end one-party rule.
"It's completely untrue that we want to free gang members," said Claudia Ortiz, a lawmaker from the emergent Vamos party. "We want to let innocent people out of jail and investigate with due process."
Seats in Congress will also be up for grabs on Sunday and Bukele's New Ideas party is predicted to keep its majority.
Recent electoral reforms slashed the size of Congress by nearly a third and consolidated the country's 262 municipalities into 44 districts.
New Ideas says the move will reduce spending, while civil society organizations like Citizen Action say they will reduce smaller parties' participation and ultimately tip the scales in Bukele's favor.
The president has also stacked courts with loyalists who have blocked investigations into an apparent early government pact with the gangs and ministers accused of embezzlement. Their interpretation of the constitution paved the way for him to run for re-election.
In the longer term, Salvadorans say they will need change beyond the security situation. Extreme poverty and hunger rose during Bukele's time in office and state debt shot up.
Many voters Reuters spoke to noted the skyrocketing costs of food and housing that stretch monthly expenses beyond income.
"Security yes, but everything else is the same – we need improvement in health and education, and most of all, the economy," said Marcos Rodriguez, a 60-year-old coffee farmer. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/el-salvadors-bukele-looks-set-for-landslide-election-win-on-gang-crackdown
| 2024-01-30T13:20:33Z
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BELFAST - The leader of Northern Ireland's largest pro-British party expressed optimism on Tuesday that the regional power-sharing government could be restored within days, urging ministers in London to move quickly to implement a deal between the sides.
Jeffrey Donaldson, leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), announced earlier that his party had endorsed proposals agreed with London on the operation of post-Brexit trade rules, and would end a near two-year boycott of the government.
The DUP had argued that London's Brexit deal with the European Union undermined Northern Ireland's place in the United Kingdom by demanding checks on some goods coming from Britain.
But London's offer to cement Northern Ireland's position in the UK in law, plus a 3.3 billion pound ($4.2 billion) financial package, looked set to win the DUP over.
All sides want to move quickly before critics unpick the proposals and imperil the restoration of regional government, a key part of a 1998 agreement to end decades of sectarian violence.
Donaldson told BBC Radio Ulster the government could be restored within days "if the (UK) government moves with the speed that I believe they can".
He said the legislation would have two elements; one designed to affirm Northern Ireland's place within the UK and the other amending the UK Internal Market Act to "protect the region's ability to trade with the rest of the UK".
"Have we achieved everything that we wanted to achieve?" he asked. "No, we haven't. I will be honest with people about what we've been able to deliver."
London has kept its proposals under wraps to try to prevent them being undermined by hardened opponents of the post-Brexit trade deal with the EU.
Steve Baker, a junior Northern Ireland minister, tried to pre-empt concerns the changes might require Britain again to follow some EU regulations - which would infuriate advocates of Brexit.
"There are no commitments of any kind ... to align GB (Great Britain) with EU law; prevent GB from diverging from any retained EU law; or increase alignment in Northern Ireland beyond the strictly limited scope parliament has approved," he said on X.
Northern Ireland's main parties were due to meet later on Tuesday to discuss, and most likely agree to, the restoration of the devolved government. Donaldson said the UK government could then publish legislation underpinning the deal as soon as Wednesday.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said his government and the European Commission still had to see the final deal to be confident it did not have any negative consequences for last year's reworked post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland or the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.
He told reporters in Dublin that he did not anticipate any problems and expected a new power-sharing government would be formed "certainly this week or next week". REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/after-two-year-hiatus-northern-irish-government-could-return-in-days
| 2024-01-30T13:20:43Z
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BELFAST - Northern Ireland's largest pro-British party said on Tuesday it had agreed a deal with the United Kingdom government on the operation of post-Brexit trade rules that would pave the way for it to return to the region's power-sharing government.
Northern Ireland has had no government for almost two years, since the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) walked out in protest over a trade deal with the European Union, which it said undermined Northern Ireland's place in the UK by requiring checks on some goods coming from Britain.
The party's leader said the power-sharing government - a key part of the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement - could be restored within days if the British government acted quickly.
HOW DOES NORTHERN IRELAND'S DEVOLVED GOVERNMENT WORK?
Irish nationalist and pro-British unionist politicians are obliged to share power in the British-run region under the terms of the accord that ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland.
However, power-sharing has broken down on several occasions, and the provincial assembly and executive were also suspended between 2017 and 2020.
WHY WAS THE GOVERNMENT SUSPENDED THIS TIME?
When Britain left the EU, it agreed in effect to leave Northern Ireland within the bloc's single market for goods, given its open border with EU member Ireland, enshrined in the Good Friday agreement.
But this put it at odds with Northern Irish unionists, and the DUP quit the government in February 2022 when the checks underpinning the deal began to be implemented. It also opposed a reworked agreement, the Windsor Framework, struck a year later, to reduce the number of checks required on some goods coming from Britain by introducing 'green' and 'red' lanes.
DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson said on Tuesday the offer from London to legally cement Northern Ireland's place and trading position in the UK was sufficient for the party to end its boycott.
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
Northern Ireland's main parties were due to meet to discuss, and most likely agree to, the restoration later on Tuesday, with Donaldson tying his party's return to the British government "fully and faithfully" delivering on what had been agreed, including passing the new legislation.
He said the government could publish a bill as soon as Wednesday. A member of Prime Minister's Rishi Sunak's government said it could be presented to parliament on Thursday.
Once it passes, the Northern Irish parliament at Stormont will meet to elect a first and deputy first minister. For the first time, Irish nationalists Sinn Fein will take the role of first minister after an historic election win shortly after the DUP walkout.
WHAT OBSTACLES ARE AHEAD?
All sides want to move quickly before critics, particularly hardline unionists opposed to any compromise, unpick the proposals and imperil the restoration of the regional government.
Donaldson refused to disclose the margin by which his party's executive voted to accept the new deal on Monday.
Jon Tonge, Professor of Politics at the University of Liverpool, told the BBC that DUP lawmakers could yet make trouble, but that he was confident the devolved government would be quickly restored.
Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the EU would also need to check that the deal did not infringe the Windsor Framework or Good Friday Agreement, but told reporters he did not anticipate any problems. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/explainer-how-is-northern-ireland-governed-and-what-s-next-after-dup-deal
| 2024-01-30T13:20:54Z
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JOSSIGNY, France - Farmers set bales of hay ablaze to partly block access to Toulouse airport in southwestern France on Tuesday and parked tractors across highways near Paris as they lobbied the government for help to make a living from their work.
Farmers, who also want measures against cheap imports, are looking for more support from new Prime Minister Gabriel Attal, who will spell out his policy plans later on Tuesday, and from the agriculture minister, who is also due to make an announcement.
"Whatever happens, we are determined to go to the end," farmer Jean-Baptiste Bongard said as crowds of farmers huddled together around small fires on a highway in Jossigny, near Paris, blocked by the tractors in the early hours.
"If the movement needs to last a month, then it will last a month," said Bongard, who took over the family business in July and finds it hard to compete with foreign producers who do not follow the same regulations.
A huge placard at the protest, "Let's save agriculture", was attached to one vehicle.
In Longvilliers, also near Paris, both carriageways of the highway were blocked with tractors, and bales of hay, with other traffic being diverted up a sliproad as a queue of cars snaked into the distance.
The regional prefect said that farmers had blocked the main access to Toulouse airport, but that people could still gain access via nearby parking lots. BFM TV said stacks of hay and tyres had been set on fire at a roundabout in front of the airport.
EU SUMMIT IN FOCUS
Farmers in France, the EU's biggest agricultural producer, say they are not being paid enough and are choked by excessive regulation on environmental protection.
The protests has been going on for more than a week, but increased in intensity on Monday, leading up to an EU summit on Thursday when they hope their action and those of other farmers in Europe will grab the attention of the politicians focused on aid for Ukraine and the bloc's budget.
The French protests follow similar action in other European countries, including Germany and Poland, ahead of European Parliament elections in June in which the far right, for whom farmers represent a growing constituency, is seen making gains.
In Belgium, farmers angry with EU environmental policies and cheap imports, plan to block access roads to the Zeebrugge container port in Belgium from Tuesday.
In France, the government, wary of seeing the protests escalate and with an eye on the European elections, has already dropped plans to gradually reduce subsidies on agricultural diesel and promised to ease environmental regulations.
The government will also push its EU peers to agree to ease regulations on fallow farmland. President Emmanuel Macron is set to discuss it with EU officials and leaders in the margins of the summit in Brussels.
Attal, who will spell out his policy plans as new prime minister in front of the National Assembly, is set to mention the crisis, but officials said more concrete steps should be unveiled by Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau.
Franck Laborde, who heads the AGPM association of maize producers, said an increase in environmental rules "needs to stop".
One particular point of concern, he said, were imports of cheap poultry from Ukraine, where farmers do not follow the same rules.
"We are opening our doors wide in Europe to Ukrainian production so that they can finance the war. This is not acceptable. Agriculture is being sacrificed on the altar of war," he said. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/french-farmers-block-roads-with-tractors-press-government-for-action
| 2024-01-30T13:21:04Z
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PARIS - Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban confirmed he was ready to soften his stance on a proposed European Union aid package for Ukraine to be financed from the bloc's budget ahead of an emergency summit this week.
Orban's remarks, published by French magazine Le Point on Tuesday, come a day after Orban's political director said the country was open to using the EU budget for a proposed 50 billion euro ($54 billion) aid package for Kyiv.
Orban has been a vocal critic of the EU's financial and military support for Kyiv and has maintained close ties with the Kremlin since Russia's invasion of neighbouring Ukraine in February 2022.
"Hungary is ready to participate in the solution of the 27 (EU member nations) if you guarantee that each year we will decide whether or not to send this money. And this annual decision must have the same legal basis as today: it must be unanimous", Orban was quoted as saying. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/hungarys-orban-ready-to-soften-stance-on-eu-aid-for-ukraine-le-point-magazine
| 2024-01-30T13:21:14Z
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Italy's ITA Airways will resume its flights between Tel Aviv and Rome as of March 1, starting with three weekly return trips, the airline said on Tuesday.
ITA said in a statement that the number of flights between Rome Fiumicino and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion may increase this summer, "according to the evolution of the geopolitical scenario".
"The restart of flights between Tel Aviv and Rome was also possible thanks to cooperation with Italian and Israeli authorities and it is strategically important for ITA Airways," the airline added. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/italys-ita-to-resume-tel-aviv-flights-from-march
| 2024-01-30T13:21:25Z
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BUDAPEST - There is a long road ahead before a meeting between Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy can happen, the Hungarian foreign minister said at a briefing on Tuesday.
Peter Szijjarto, who was speaking a day after meeting his Ukrainian counterpart, said that if Ukraine met Hungary's conditions that would create a "clean slate" in bilateral relations and allow for a top level meeting.
Szijjarto also reiterated a shift in the Hungarian government's stance and said Budapest was open to using the European Union budget for a proposed 50 billion euro ($54 billion) aid package to Ukraine if it was reviewed annually with a need for unanimity from member states.
Replying to a reporter's question, Szijjarto also said he saw no need to call an extraordinary session of the Hungarian parliament to vote on Sweden's bid to join NATO.
"Parliament's regular session starts in late February, so I think we can wait for the regular session and put this on the agenda then if the majority agrees, of course," he said.
Hungarian opposition parties submitted a motion calling for an extraordinary session of parliament to ratify Sweden's NATO bid next Monday. Parliament speaker Laszlo Kover said last week that opposition attempts at an extra session would likely fail. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/long-road-ahead-before-orban-zelenskiy-meeting-hungary-foreign-minister
| 2024-01-30T13:21:35Z
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MOSCOW - Sergei Baburin, a Russian nationalist politician who had announced his candidacy in presidential elections scheduled for March 15-17, said on Tuesday that he was pulling out of the race and endorsing the incumbent, Vladimir Putin.
Baburin, leader of the Russian All-People's Union party, announced his change of heart shortly after submitting documents and signatures to the central electoral commission in support of his bid.
In video published by online news outlet SOTA, Baburin said it would be wrong to undermine national unity "at a difficult hour for the motherland", referring to the war in Ukraine.
He called on all patriotic Russians to unite around Putin, whose victory in the election is assumed as a foregone conclusion by supporters and opponents alike.
Baburin is a longtime, if marginal, fixture of Russian nationalist politics, having served as a lawmaker until 2007 and taken part in armed opposition to President Boris Yeltsin during civil unrest in 1993.
At Russia's last presidential elections in 2018, he came last out of eight candidates, taking 0.65% of the vote.
Russia's electoral commission has so far registered four candidates, including Putin, for the polls. Several more, including anti-war candidate Boris Nadezhdin, are due to submit documents by Wednesday. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/nationalist-candidate-withdraws-from-russian-presidential-race-endorses-putin
| 2024-01-30T13:21:47Z
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BANGKOK - The recent takeover of strategic Myanmar territory by an alliance of ethnic armed groups fighting the junta under a campaign called “Operation 1027” has renewed interest in the country’s three-year-old crisis.
Myanmar’s National Unity Government (NUG), a civilian-led body challenging the legitimacy of the military junta, says it has received more queries about the extent to which the armed groups under its command have also joined the campaign.
But the NUG continues to get the cold shoulder from four out of the nine Asean member states, says its foreign minister Zin Mar Aung. This is despite the fact that it reaches out equally to all governments in the 10-member bloc when it issues any statement.
In an online interview with The Straits Times on Jan 28, Ms Zin Mar Aung said it was currently engaging with five Asean member states – some of which prefer to keep their interactions out of the public eye.
Citing diplomatic protocol, she also declined to reveal the contents of recent discussions she had with Asean’s special envoy on Myanmar, Mr Alounkeo Kittikhoun. The veteran Lao diplomat held separate meetings with her as well as Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing in January 2024, as part of his mandate to engage with all relevant stakeholders in Myanmar to help facilitate dialogue.
But Thailand, which recently said it wants to facilitate the provision of humanitarian aid across the Thai-Myanmar border, has so far not officially reached out to the NUG, she disclosed.
“They haven’t talked to us formally, professionally about what needs to be done. We hope there will be more direct engagement with us in the near future,” she said.
The Myanmar junta that emerged after the Feb 2021 military coup declared the NUG a terrorist organisation. NUG has done the same to the Myanmar military and its affiliated organisations.
While the Ukraine and Gaza wars have pulled attention away from the Myanmar crisis, Ms Zin Mar Aung visited Britain, the United States and Japan in 2023 to keep her country on the global agenda.
“NUG represents the struggle of the people of Myanmar against the illegitimate coup and the military dictatorship,” said Ms Zin Mar Aung. “Through our foreign policies, we always try to put Myanmar on the agenda of other countries. Looking from that perspective, I wouldn’t say our profile has faded in 2023.”
The NUG has representative offices in Japan, South Korea, Australia, Czech Republic, France, Britain, Norway and the US. It engages with governments of countries hosting the Myanmar diaspora to alleviate the impact that the military junta’s policies may have had on them.
For example, to make up for a revenue shortfall, the regime in 2023 started levying income tax on Myanmar’s overseas citizens, requiring proof of tax payment before renewing passports. Some Myanmar nationals have also had their passports revoked while they were overseas – allegedly for expressing their opposition to the junta.
Ms Zin Mar Aung says her ministry appeals to these host governments to make special arrangements for these stranded citizens.
“We cannot issue passports. We talk to the respective foreign ministries in the countries we ask for assistance so they have a right to stay in the country because if they don’t have their passports, they cannot extend their work permit and they will not be able to work,” she told ST.
“The foreign ministry office has to provide protection to our citizens to keep them from danger. We cannot provide full consular services, but we do what we can.”
The NUG’s representative office in Japan, for example, has worked with Tokyo to allow Myanmar nationals whose passports have expired to get the necessary paperwork to leave and enter Japan again.
“It’s not in every country that we can do that. It depends on the political system,” said the minister.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/four-asean-member-states-continue-to-ignore-myanmar-s-shadow-government
| 2024-01-30T13:21:57Z
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JERUSALEM - A far-right partner in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition threatened on Tuesday to quit the government over any attempt to enter a "reckless" deal with Hamas to retrieve hostages held by the Palestinian militants.
"Reckless deal = dismantling of the government," Itamar Ben-Gvir of the Jewish Power party posted on X, amid media reports that Israel was considering a long-term halt, brokered by Qatar an Egypt, to its offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Jewish Power accounts for six of the 64 seats that Netanyahu's religious-rightist coalition held in the 120-seat parliament before the Gaza war. After the war erupted, he brought the 12-seat centrist party National Unity into an emergency cabinet.
Ben-Gvir and another ultranationalist coalition partner, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich of the Religious Zionism party, have chafed at their exclusion from Netanyahu's small, decision-making war counsel.
They have called for no let-up in the offensive and for Israel to resettle Gaza, from which it withdrew in 2005. Netanyahu has ruled out rebuilding of Jewish settlements there but says post-war Gaza will be under Israeli security control. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/far-rightist-threatens-to-quit-israel-govt-over-any-reckless-gaza-deal
| 2024-01-30T13:22:07Z
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LONDON - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on countries not to stigmatise an international humanitarian organisation, after allegations that several of its employees had taken part in the deadly Oct 7 attack against Israel by Hamas militants plunged it into a severe crisis.
The United States suspended its payments to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and more than a dozen other nations followed suit.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/how-will-the-un-likely-emerge-from-crisis-after-allegations-that-unrwa-members-took-part-in-oct-7-attack-against-israel
| 2024-01-30T13:22:18Z
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The Ukrainian defense forces have shot down a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber aircraft in eastern Ukraine’s Luhansk Oblast. Andrii Kovaliov, spokesperson for the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, said this on Ukrainian television on 30 January, according to Ukrinform. Kovaliov added that the Russian Su-34 aircraft was downed on 29 January.
Earlier, on 14 January, Ukrainian forces hit Russia’s valuable A-50 early warning and control aircraft and IL-22 airborne control center, with the former crashing near Berdiansk, killing its crew and personnel, and the latter sustaining damage but managing to land at a civilian airfield. This attack marked the Russian Air Force’s most devastating loss since the start of the all-out war.
Late last year, Ukraine reportedly used the Patriot SAM system to ambush and destroy three Russian Su-34 fighter-bombers in southern Ukraine.
According to the estimations of Ukraine’s General Staff, Russia lost 332 fixed-wing assets and 324 helicopters in Ukraine as of 30 January 2024:
Read also:
- Russian IL-76 aircraft crashes in Belgorod Oblast, Russia claims it carried Ukrainian POWs
- ISW: Russian air operations drop over Azov Sea after Ukraine strikes hit radar plane, command aircraft
- Russia reportedly loses valuable AWACS A-50 aircraft over Azov Sea (updates)
- Frontline report: Ukraine moves Patriot system closer to frontline, resulting in three Russian aircraft downed
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https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/01/30/general-staff-ukraine-destroys-russian-su-34-bomber-in-luhansk-oblast/
| 2024-01-30T13:34:12Z
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Ukraine’s air defense forces successfully downed 15 of 35 Russo-Iranian suicide drones during the night of January 29-30, as reported by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on its Facebook page.
Russia has been conducting the Shahed drone attacks against Ukraine almost every night, with number of explosive drone ranging from just a few to several dozen. The attacks don’t cause significant damage as Ukraine’s air defenses routinely down most of the suicide drones, but at the same time such attacks trigger hours-long air raid alerts in the affected regions.
“At night, the Russian invaders attacked Ukraine with 35 Shahed-136/131 attack UAVs. Air defense forces and means destroyed 15 enemy drones,” the General Staff wrote.
Ukraine’s Air Force says that overnight into 30 January, Russian forces launched the Shaheds from three directions – Russia’s Primorsko-Akhtarsk (southeast of Ukraine), Kursk (north of Ukraine), and occupied Crimea’s Cape Chauda in the south. Additionally, the Russians launched two S-300 anti-aircraft guided missiles in their secondary ground-attack role in Donetsk Oblast.
The Air Force says 15 Shahed UAVs were destroyed in Mykolaiv, Sumy, Cherkasy, Kirovohrad, Dnipro, Kharkiv, Kherson, and Kyiv oblasts.
“The enemy sent some of the attack UAVs to the frontline areas, trying to hit the infrastructure of the fuel and energy sector, civilian and military facilities near the front line and the state border with Russia,” the Air Force wrote.
A fire broke out at an enterprise in Kyiv Oblast as drone debris crashed, damaging and administrative building, a car, and a hangar, according to regional authorities. Cherkasty and Dnipro regional authorities also reported insignificant damage from the Russian drone attack. Another drone hit an abandoned building in Cherkasy Oblast. A Shahed drone hit the civilian infrastructure facility in Kryvyi Rih, Dnipropetrovsk Oblast.
The local authorities reported that no one was injured by the Russian air assault in the three abovementioned regions.
Read also:
- Ukraine downs all eight Russian suicide drones in nighttime attack
- Russian Shahed sucide drone attack damages residential buildings, injures civilians
- Russia attacks Ukraine with 90 explosive drones killing a teenager on New Year’s night, Ukraine downs 87 UAVs
- Ukraine forces neutralize half of New Year’s eve Russia drone assault, three Ukrainian oblasts affected
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https://euromaidanpress.com/2024/01/30/ukraine-downs-15-35-russias-explosive-drones-overnight/
| 2024-01-30T13:34:52Z
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A GenAI engine within Anima that allows users (developers) to automatically customize the code they produce so it resembles the way they code in terms of conventions. Anima for Figma: https://link.animaapp.com/3SlLmn2
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https://www.producthunt.com/posts/ai-figma-to-code-personalized
| 2024-01-30T14:12:30Z
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Besides your own dress as the bride, bridesmaids dresses are one of the top priorities of wedding planning. Trust me, if your bridesmaid doesn't like the dress, she'll let you know. You've got a bit more wiggle room with your flower girl dresses, with younger bridesmaids and their dresses being less expensive and let's face it, all the more cuter.
When it comes to flower girls, many brides choose to have a young member of their family, such as a niece, a daughter or a cousin, as flower girls who walk down the aisle to scatter petals ahead of the bridesmaids and the bride.
Plenty of high street shops carry collections of these sweet frocks, with Monsoon flower girl dresses being among some of the most popular. Department stores like Next, John Lewis and Debenhams also sell them, from their own label plus brands, and online, it's niche wedding and occasionwear retailers like Roco and Chi Chi that carry a wider range of flower girl dresses to choose, from ivory to pink to navy blue.
But what are they actually meant to wear? If you're not sure where to begin when shopping for your flower girl dresses, keep scrolling…
How I chose the sweetest flower girl dresses:
- Size: This edit focuses solely on flower girl dresses, with most available in baby, toddler and younger girl sizes. Some go up to age 13, but we've saved bridesmaid dresses for teens for our bridesmaid edit.
- Trending colours: We've picked the top trending flower girl dress colours to focus on; ivory and white, pink, green and blue. If the dresses are available in colours other than the one pictured, I've made sure to call that out.
- Brands: There's a lot of flower girl dresses out there but I've only included those from brands we personally have used, or trust, and are either high street retailers or specific wedding dress brands. You'll find a few from Etsy on there, but be sure to read the whole description online before ordering - many of these are custom made and returns aren't always accepted, so do your homework.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512059/best-flower-girl-dresses-for-little-girls/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:01Z
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Andre Agassi has revealed the secret to his 23-year marriage with Steffi Graf in a very rare relationship confession.
Two years after his divorce from Brooke Shields, the American tennis player, 53, exchanged vows with the German sportswoman, 54, in 2001 and they welcomed their first child, a son called Jaden, later that year. They expanded their family in 2003 with the birth of their daughter Jaz.
Fast forward two decades and the couple still share rare tributes to one another in interviews and on social media. This week was no exception, with Andre telling WSJ. Magazine that their strong bond boils down to being happy in yourself first.
"The first is to know yourself. You can't come to a relationship needing the other to feel complete, or else you're fighting multiple battles," he explained.
Not only do they have a shared interest in tennis, with Andre winning eight Grand Slam titles while his wife has won 22 Grand Slam singles titles, but they have also both taken up pickleball, where they plan to compete against John McEnroe and Maria Sharapova in the Pickleball Slam 2.
When they're not playing sports, the couple likes to spend time with their children. Putting all their tennis trophies aside, doting dad Andre admitted that one very sentimental present from his son is his prized possession.
"I have a necklace my son made for me. It’s a beaded necklace with these letters. When he was four, he asked me to help him. [He said,] 'I want to make this, I want to write, Daddy Rocks.' We put these little beads of the letters and spelled out 'Daddy Rocks.' I’ve never taken it off but it broke and it’s getting [fixed]," he said.
Andre and Steffi met after their respective victories at Wimbledon 1992, and he admitted he already had a crush on her in his auto-biography Open.
After seeing her doing an interview on French television, he wrote: "I was thunderstruck, dazzled by her understated grace, her effortless beauty ... I tried to get a message to her after [1991's] French Open, but she didn't respond."
They went on to date different people - Steffi was in a relationship with Michael Bartels from 1992 to 1999, while Agassi's relationship with Brooke began in 1993 - before romance blossomed several years later.
Andre and Steffi have remained notoriously private about their relationship and their family over the years, only announcing their wedding by releasing a statement that read: "We are so blessed to be married and starting this chapter of our lives. The privacy and intimacy of our ceremony was beautiful and reflective of all we value."
It's reported that the couple got married in the courtyard of their home wearing casual jeans with their mothers as witnesses.
READ: Christine Lampard wows in figure-hugging wedding guest dress in unearthed photo with Frank
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512327/andre-agassi-discusses-fighting-multiple-battles-rare-steffi-graf-marriage-confession/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:02Z
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Princess Anne was an unforgettable mother-of-the-bride at Zara Tindall's (née Phillips) wedding in Scotland in 2011.
But the doting mother did not just show off her style credentials in her pleated ensemble at Canongate Kirk. The day before her daughter exchanged vows with former rugby player Mike Tindall, close friends and members of the royal family gathered for a boat party on the Royal Yacht Britannia.
Embracing her nautical surroundings, the Princess Royal was pictured in a sailor-esque ensemble consisting of a black knee-length blazer dress with cropped sleeves and a plunging neckline with white lapels. A black cami dress layered underneath, a three-strand pearl necklace and a gold seahorse brooch added the finishing touches.
Keeping true to her trademark beauty look, Anne styled her hair in her iconic French twist and wore bright pink lipstick to add a colour pop to her monochrome outfit.
The Royal Yacht Britannia has long had a special place in the hearts of the royal family. The 412-ft ship served as Anne's honeymoon following her wedding to Zara's father Captain Mark Phillips, with the couple exploring the West Indies in 1973. Princess Margaret and Anthony Armstrong-Jones, King Charles and Princess Diana, and Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York similarly chose to cruise on the ship following their royal weddings.
It was not the only sentimental part of Zara's wedding day. On 30 July 2011, Zara and Mike are believed to have chosen to say 'I do' at Canongate Kirk due to the family's fondness of Scotland, followed by a reception at the late Queen Elizabeth II's residence, the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Zara looked striking in her Stewart Parvin bridal gown, but Anne also turned heads in her beautiful peach dress with a pleated skirt, a cream and pink embroidered jacket with a structured collar and a matching fascinator.
Mike and Zara had announced their engagement in December 2010, shortly after the Prince and Princess of Wales. Mike admitted he had been "thinking about it for ages" but didn't want to propose too close to other family members.
Opening up about the nerve-wracking experience, which took place at their Cheltenham home, he told the MailOnline: "I was upstairs, plucking up the nerve to do it, while Zara was downstairs watching television. It was all about shock value - I wanted to catch her when it was quiet and she wasn't expecting anything.
"I walked in there and got down on one knee, with the ring. She was on the sofa, so that made it easier. I said, 'Will you marry me?'" Although her reaction wasn't what he expected! "She started laughing. She was completely in shock. Then, when she stopped laughing, she said, 'Yes.' That was a relief."
LOOK: Inside Princess Anne's wedding to Timothy Laurence which was forbidden in England
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512334/princess-annes-glam-sailor-inspired-mother-of-the-bride-dress/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:04Z
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"What if I made it for you?" I boldly asked my friend as she deliberated with her husband-to-be over whether they could justify spending nearly £250 on a cake to be served at their engagement party.
We've all seen the cool and kitsch vintage-style tiered cakes dominating our social feeds. From the heart-shaped pastel-hued masterpieces to the towering ruffled bakes, it's no wonder couples feel pressure to ensure every element of their wedding day caters to an Instagram-worthy aesthetic.
In 2023, the average price range for a four-tiered wedding cake was between £400 - £750, with many professional bakers charging upwards of £1000 for bespoke bakes.
If you're willing to DIY, however, the cost can be significantly lower, as I discovered when I used a £45 Vanilla Two Tier Naked Cake from Marks & Spencer to create my friend's dream engagement party cake on a budget.
How I made an engagement party cake on a budget
The two-tier M&S cake features six layers of fluffy Madeira sponge, generously filled and lightly masked with vanilla buttercream. The so-called 'naked' aspect means it's the ultimate blank canvas for any occasion.
I worked out that buying the ingredients to make six sponge cakes would cost me around £23, but given the amount of baking time, skill and patience required to produce multiple Great British Bake Off-worthy sponges, all equal in size, perfectly risen and flush around the edges, I felt investing in the supermarket version was more than worth it.
I also didn't have the multiple baking tins required to produce two different-sized cakes, nor did I have an electric mixer, kitchen scales or enough cooling racks required to make six sponges - all of which would have added a significant amount to the cost.
To ice, I used 500g of unsalted butter, 1kg of icing sugar and three egg whites to whip up a glossy, Swiss meringue buttercream used to pipe opulent swirls and romantic ruffles around the two-tier bake.
To decorate, I used maraschino cherries and a drop of violet food colouring (to whiten the yellow butter tones of the icing), meaning the total cost to decorate the cake was just £8.
I spent the days leading up to decorating the cake watching YouTube videos on how to pipe, and once I'd made the buttercream, I did a few trial runs with different piping nozzles on a spare piece of cardboard before I tackled the real thing.
A spinning cake stand was a necessity to pull off the seamless, uniformed ruffles around the edge. It was also helpful for ensuring the first layer of buttercream could be smoothed easily too.
While M&S recommends their two-tier cake serves 36 people, I can confidently say that with clever cutting, the cake could easily stretch to 45. When you're adding layers of buttercream too, the cake can be extremely rich - so a token slice is more than enough for your guests to feel satisfied.
In total, I spent £54 creating my friend's dream engagement cake, saving her hundreds from the original price she had been quoted for a vintage buttercream, two-tiered bake. While I did feel a little like Helen Mirren in Calendar Girls when her Marks & Spencer sponge wins the WI's competition, I'd definitely recommend using the M&S hack if you have an occasion coming up.
As the quote goes: "Well, I basically stuck to my mother's advice about cake baking. Line the bowl with butter. Always use a warm spoon. And if it's a special event, get it at Marks & Spencer's."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/512340/how-to-save-money-wedding-cake-marks-and-spencer-hack/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:04Z
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Heidi Klum is a big fan of her handsome husband Tom Kaulitz's rugged appearance but years before they were an item, the German musician had a very different look.
The America's Got Talent judge snuck a throwback photo of Tom into her Instagram stories on Monday and at first glance you'd be forgiven for not realizing it was him.
The Tokio Hotel rocker looked so different in the image in which he was clean-shaven, sporting dreadlocks and showing off his lip piercing.
Tom appeared to be in his early twenties or younger, and without his facial hair his youthful features were clear to see.
Tom is incredibly famous in Germany where he has carved out a lengthy career as the guitarist for Tokio Hotel.
His identical twin, Bill, is the lead singer and his best friends Georg Listing and Gustav Schäfer are the bassist and drummer.
Tom was previously married to German model Ria Sommerfeld but tied the knot with Heidi in 2019.
She addressed their 16-year age difference when asked during an Instagram Q&A: "Don’t you feel that you're in the age of Tom's mom or age doesn't really matter?" Heidi responded: "I honestly only feel that way when people point it out to me".
In an interview with InStyle, she reiterated her feelings when she told the outlet: "Lately, I’m being reminded more about my age by people other than myself.
"My boyfriend is many years younger than me, and lots of people are questioning that and asking about it. That's really the only time when age seems to be shoved in my face and I have to give an answer for it."
The star added: "I don’t really think about it that much otherwise. You have to just live a happy life without worrying too much about what people think because worrying is only going to give you more wrinkles."
The pair don't have any children together but Heidi shares her kids, Lou, 14, Johan, 16, Henry, 18, and Leni, 19, with her ex-husband, Seal, 60.
When she turned 50, she said she still had babies on the brain, but it wasn't likely to happen. "I mean wanting it and it actually being possible are always two different things," she said. "And things get harder when you get older. But would I want it? Sometimes I think yes."
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/celebrities/512333/heidi-klum-50-unrecognizable-photo-husband-tom-kaulitz-younger-no-beard/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:05Z
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You might think that Oprah Winfrey would mark the milestone occasion of turning 70 with a huge party surrounded by hyper-successful friends, but according to her best friend Gayle King, that is not necessarily the case.
The CBS TV host took to Instagram to pay tribute to Oprah on her birthday, giving fans an unexpected insight into how she spent the momentous day. The candid video saw Oprah reading to Gayle's grandson Luca.
The video saw Oprah, adorably nicknamed Aunty O, reading Luca a book at Christmas time. The duo made sure to do all the sound effects involved in telling the story, as Oprah made the reading experience as interactive as possible.
"Aunty O really liked reading you the book", she said earnestly to the little one. "Now Aunty O's going to take some quiet time!"
Her best friend could be heard laughing in the background as Oprah got ready for her quiet time, exclaiming, "that was only one book!"
Oprah responded: "Yeah! It was a whole book!" justifying the end to her quality time with the baby.
Gayle announced alongside the adorable video: "Happy to say at 70 @oprah is still a very good reader!"
"While Favorite grandson Luca is too young to understand how special this moment was during Christmas vacation, it’s not lost on me", she continued.
She carried on that when Oprah was asked how she wanted to spend her birthday, her request was to keep it simple: "She said, 'No gifts, no parties, no surprises!' Her preference was to sit by the fire with a good book and savor the fragrance of her life! Happy birthday Oprah!!"
Oprah has long been a voracious reader. Not only was she close with legendary author Maya Angelou, but she has had a few different book clubs since 1996. The original Oprah's Book Club lasted around 15 years, selecting approximately 70 books over the period. When books were selected to be read by the book clubs, sales could increase by as many as several million copies.
However, since the end to the original club, Oprah has had a couple more iterations of it, with Oprah's Book Club 2.0 and an Apple + TV show which ran from 2019 to 2021.
Oprah and Gayle have been friends since they were both in their 20s, with the former famously describing her best friend as: "the mother I never had; she is the sister everybody would want; she is the friend everybody deserves; I don't know a better person".
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512338/oprah-winfrey-seen-like-never-before-intimate-family-video-gayle-king-birthday/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:21Z
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There are plenty of things we can do each day to help us feel happier, but they can often feel like a lot of effort - especially if you already have a super busy life.
If you’re looking for a way to effortlessly feel happier, personal stylist Sian Clarke, AKA Styled by Sian, has the answer - add colour to your wardrobe.
While it’s tempting to go for minimalist black, grey or navy clothes, Sian implores us to reach for rainbow brights, explaining: “I can’t stress the importance of wearing colour to help us boost our mood.
“Colour is sorcery. It's a magic tool you can use at any time and to boost you up, calm you down and impact others around you,” Sian says.
“Colour is a language that we all speak, it releases physiological, emotional and physical effects that trigger a response in your nervous system, so it's perfect for giving your mood a boost. Wearing colour helps you step into your best zone.”
If you’re new to wearing colour, Sian has a handy guide to the powers of different shades.
For energy and motivation: Red
"Red is perfect for days when you need high energy and motivation (or you are just plain exhausted) because it releases adrenaline into your body," she explains.
"It is also fantastic to give the illusion that you feel more confident."
For social events: Orange
"Orange is the warmest, friendliest and most approachable colour. It is super sociable and gives you a mood boost as it is a mix of red and yellow. It can help you think in the moment and show your reliable side," says Sian.
INSPIRATION: How rejecting clothing sizes made me happier
For blitzing brain fog: Yellow
"Yellow is the most stimulating colour," Sian shares. "It activates the left part of our brain which is where we do the deep thinking.
"If you are someone who struggles with brain fog and indecision, yellow can help you with concentration and focus. It's also the happiest colour of all - just think of how the sunshine makes you feel.
"Yellow is my personal favourite colour to wear when I need a mood boost, because I associate it with summer sunshine, brighter days and laughter.
"Yellow has a distinctive ability to create a sense of warmth and reassurance. It gives me great comfort, a boost in energy and confidence to match!"
READ: I'm a confidence coach - these are the 3 rules I tell all my clients
For stressful days: Green
"I describe wearing green as bringing you back down to earth," Sian says. "Green is the colour of balance, harmony and is very reassuring on days you feel all over the place because it reduces cortisol levels. Wearing green will help you destress, relax and get back in the game."
For feeling calm: Blue
"Opt for blue in times of overwhelm. It releases the feel-good hormone oxytocin into our system, creating a gorgeous sense of calm.
"The calmer you feel, the better you can communicate and grow relationships in work and your private life."
For difficult meetings: Purple
"Purple is the perfect colour to wear if you have to mediate between people. The combination of confidence-boosting red and calming blue combine to create the ideal colour to wear when you’re in a state of flux."
How to add colour to your wardrobe
1. Start with accessories
"Starting with an accessory in your favourite shade will make you feel at ease with the pop of colour because you already love it. It could be anything from earrings, a belt, shoes or a bag,” Sian advises.
READ: 5 life coach-approved ways to feel happier - without spending a penny
2. Move onto print
“Next, start adding printed items into your wardrobe. The base colour of the print could be in a dark huethat you're used to, but make sure the pattern is bright to introduce colour to your wardrobe.”
3. Embrace coloured basics
“Once you feel confident with accessories and print, try wearing a simple tee or jumper in a block colour of your choice. T-shirts are a staple wardrobe hero that will give you so many more colourful outfit options."
4. Try head-to-toe colour
“Now you're no stranger to wearing bright T-shirts, try wearing one colour head to toe - e.g. in a block colour dress or jumpsuit. You can calm it down with a neutral jacket and shoes so that it feels less OTT.”
Learn more about Sian here and visit HELLO!'s Happiness Hub for more advice on how to feel happier.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/512342/happiness-coloured-wardrobe-sian-clarke/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:27Z
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Queen Camilla looked all smiles as she was seen leaving The London Clinic on Monday as her husband King Charles underwent surgery for an enlarged prostate.
The royal looked so elegant as she exited the private hospital wearing an elegant Anna Valentine deep blue dress that came down to the mid-shin. The garment had frayed detailing in stripes down the front and around each wrist.
Camilla opted for an unexpected glamorous touch for the occasion – a short cape with boxy shoulders. She added to the ritzy feel with a gold necklace and her classic 'Vintage Alhambra 5 Motifs 18k Yellow Gold & Agate Bracelet' by Van Cleef & Arpels.
Combining practicality and style were her go-to Russell and Bromley suede knee-high boots that have become a staple in her winter wardrobe. She also added the 'Mini Venice' bag in Forest Grain, a deep green colour by Demellier London.
The finishing touches were her signature blowdry, a pair of pearl earrings and a natural makeup look with a rosy lip. The King looked in good spirits as he was seen waving to the well-wishers who had gathered in a double-breasted longline coat, a grey suit, and black loafers.
The King was admitted to the hospital earlier this month for prostate surgery. A statement from Buckingham Palace said: "The King was this afternoon discharged from hospital following planned medical treatment and has rescheduled forthcoming public engagements to allow for a period of private recuperation.
"His Majesty would like to thank the medical team and all those involved in supporting his hospital visit, and is grateful for all the kind messages he has received in recent days."
The couple's daughter-in-law Princess Kate has also been discharged from the hospital this week following a planned abdominal surgery. The palace said: "The Princess of Wales has returned home to Windsor to continue her recovery from surgery. She is making good progress.
"The Prince and Princess wish to say a huge thank you to the entire team at The London Clinic, especially the dedicated nursing staff, for the care they have provided. The Wales family continues to be grateful for the well wishes they have received from around the world."
Queen Camilla looked so stylish as she exited the hospital last week after visiting the King and the Princess of Wales during their stay. She rocked an unexpected cinched corduroy dress by Me + Em with those statement boots once again.
Her Majesty added her sentimental necklaces – the ‘Apollo Mini Blue Topaz and Diamond Pendant in Yellow Gold' by Kiki McDonough and a gold necklace with an extra special meaning. The piece has been embellished with a ruby for her July birthstone and engraved with the initials of her five grandchildren from her first marriage to Andrew Parker-Bowles – Lola, Freddy, Eliza, Louis, and Gus.
DISCOVER: Queen Camilla's life in photos: from a young girl to her coronation
The royal also rocked a surprising look when she opted for mismatched earrings during a visit to Deacon & Son Jewellers in Swindon who were celebrating 175 years of trading. On one side, she wore a gold statement earring with diamond chips, and on the other, she wore a pearl drop earring.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/royal-style/512330/queen-camilla-smiles-knee-high-boots-unexpected-cape-moment/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:33Z
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When Charmaine Wilkerson penned Black Cake, she had no idea that it would become an instant bestseller. No idea that it would feature on Barack Obama's Summer Reading List for 2022, and no idea that Marissa Jo Cerar and Oprah Winfrey would adapt it for the screen.
Following the novel's publication in 2022, Black Cake has continued to garner critical acclaim with its compelling portrayal of Covey – a tenacious and resilient young woman who, after the murder of her husband, disappears off the coast in Jamaica in the 1960s.
Meanwhile, in the present, a widow named Eleanor Bennett passes away, leaving her children – Byron and Benny – a flash drive filled with shocking and untold stories of her journey from the Caribbean to America.
Now a hit mini-series, Black Cake has made its debut on Hulu, but as of January 31, audiences can also tune in on Disney+. Ahead of its premiere, HELLO! caught up with author, Charmaine Wilkerson, and showrunner, Marissa Joe Cerar, to talk about the eight-part drama, plus what it was really like working with Oprah Winfrey.
"We came together – Kapital Entertainment, the studio where I have my development deal, and Harpo Films, Oprah's company," explained Marissa.
"We were all trying to get the book at the same time and I have relationships with some executives at Harpo and we were talking about something completely unrelated when the book came up and they were like, 'Oh, we're doing this' and I said 'No, we're doing it.'"
After deciding to collaborate on Black Cake, Marissa worked alongside Oprah, with the pair determined to honor Charmaine's novel. "For me, you know, the greatest thing about Oprah's input is that it's so thoughtful and all of the notes, comments, questions and suggestions are rooted in truth; making sure we're telling the truth and being authentic," she raved to HELLO!.
"As a writer who's used to getting notes all the time from so many different people, whether it's on a costume or my screenplays, that's so welcome. I beg for those kinds of notes because that's what we're trying to do. She's very thoughtful and just interested. Again, she's a lover of books and protects the novel source material."
Charmaine – who aided with research on the adaptation – is still shocked by the impact of her debut novel, not to mention Oprah's role as an executive producer. "When I was writing this story, I was just writing scenes, things that interest me, things that worry me, things that inspire me," she said.
"I love that talented creative powerful women like Oprah Winfrey and Marissa Jo Cerar have put their heart into reading a book, thinking about it and saying, 'Let's see how we can share this with other people using our own art form.'"
As for the origins of Black Cake, Charmaine clarifies that it's not autobiographical. "Without a doubt, there are details that I steal from my life. Details I take from stories told to me by my elders, a number of whom lived in the Caribbean. There's no doubt, but this story really was about feelings," she explained.
READ: I’m a TV Editor - and these are my top brand new UK shows coming out in 2024
"I began with this feeling of what would it be like to be a girl who felt so confident in herself and so strong that there was no doubt. And I think that's something most people don't experience when they're teenagers and into my head popped this image of two girls swimming out in the sea. It's the power of the sea, the beauty, the idea of physical strength, married to mental and emotional courage…and I just kept writing."
After wrapping the series and sending it out into the world, both Marissa and Charmaine have been left with cherished memories, especially of their time with Oprah.
"We were doing a Zoom or something [...] and she just said 'Are you happy? I hope you're happy, you should be,'" recalled Marissa. "It was a very simple, stamp of approval and encouragement for me after growing up watching her. It was such a big moment for me because I just idolized her growing up. So that little moment is what I've held on to."
As for Charmaine, just seeing Oprah with her novel has been a dream come true. "When the series was about to debut in the United States, she [Oprah] just popped up holding my book, and it was the first time I'd seen that. That means a great deal to me," she explained.
"It was a very simple thing," Charmaine continued. "It was, 'Wow, this really is happening'. It's almost as though throughout the whole process, even though I'd done the Zooms with Carla Gardini from her [Oprah's] group and with Marissa and other people, somehow it didn't seem real."
All 8 episodes of Black Cake will premiere on Disney+ in the UK and Ireland from Wednesday 31st January
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| 2024-01-30T14:20:39Z
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The Apprentice is back for its 18th series, which means 18 new candidates will be heading to Lord Alan Sugar's headquarters in the hopes of becoming the entrepreneur's next business partner.
The new recruits will battle it out in a series of tasks and challenges for a chance to bag Lord Sugar's £250,000 investment and mentorship. But who thinks they've got what it takes to win the top prize? Meet the candidates below…
Amina Khan
Pharmacist and Business Owner Amina runs a successful skincare and supplements business and has her sights set on "dominating the market overnight" with the help of Lord Sugar.
Noting that her biggest business success is making her first turnover of £1 million within two years of launching her brand, Ilford-based Amina added: "I achieved all this with no investment, no business background, no social media following and only in-house marketing. To think, I couldn't even afford a cheeky Nando's three years ago!"
Dr. Asif Munaf
Dr. Asif is a wellness brand owner from Sheffield, who describes himself as "beauty, brains, body and business" on his CV.
Asif launched his business whilst working 12-hour shifts as a doctor during the coronavirus pandemic, which he says is his biggest business success to date.
On why he deserves the investment, Asif said: "With my range of vitamins and supplements, I would make sure he is fit, sharp and firing for at least another 20 series!"
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Flo Edwards
Recruitment Consultant Flo, who's based in London, has a great performance history since launching her own business.
While Flo admitted she doesn't deserve Lord Sugar's investment more than her other candidates, she has "a great business" and proven track record of generating revenue. "Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the core of the business," she said, adding: "With Lord Sugar's experience with scaling recruitment businesses we can expedite this positive impact (alongside profits!)."
Foluso Falade
Project Manager Foluso wants to help young people get a head start in business and plans to run the first Social Enterprise to win Lord Sugar’s investment.
A self-proclaimed 'Mary Poppins of business', the Manchester-based contestant says her biggest success to date is choosing to start a business aimed at helping young people.
On why she deserves the investment, Foluso said: "I am a one-of-a-kind type of person, an investment in one that guarantees profit. With my people-focused attitude, I plan on building an empire in an ethical way, whilst raising up inspiring people along the way."
Jack Davies
Aspirational recruitment director and food reviewer Jack's biggest success to date is achieving five promotions in seven years. The Bristol-based candidate says he's ready to prove he's got the work ethic and drive to succeed.
Maura Rath
Maura's yoga company is rooted in the promotion of her clients' well-being and she's hoping to scale up with the help of Lord Sugar's investment.
On why she deserves the investment, Maura said: "I believe I deserve Lord Sugar's investment because my business promotes positivity and well-being, in a profitable and scalable way, with five income streams."
Noor Bouziane
Noor is a jewellery company owner based in Liverpool, who started her business at the age of 20.
"My business is worthy of the investment because I will be able to generate a lot of money for Lord Sugar compared to other candidates," she said. "My brand is something new and it offers the best accessories around."
Oliver Medforth
Sales executive Oliver's background in selling at markets has him believing he has what it takes to succeed in the famous sales tasks.
The "hard working and determined" candidate oversees five retail shops for his family-run distillery across the UK and has launched a soft drink that pairs "perfectly" with their range of gins.
Onyeka Nweze
London-based chartered company secretary Onyeka says her biggest success is building her "great corporate career".
"If Lord Sugar is ready to make some serious money, then he needs me. He's never invested in a tech business, now is the time," she said.
Paul Bowen
Paul is one of two pie company experts entering the process and prides his business on big name clients such as Manchester City Football Club.
The Lancashire-based businessman is seeking "investment of Lord Sugar's time and knowledge".
"I have great ideas and great business acumen, along with a work hard attitude. My organisation and planning is my weakness. But with Lord Sugar’s strategy and my passion and ideas, I could make him Lord of the Pies," he said.
Dr. Paul Midha
Dental group owner Paul started his practice using every resource he had, leaving just £100 in his account. Over 15 months, his practice's valuation soared to a whopping £900,000.
Paul aims to revolutionise the healthcare attire market. "When executed adeptly, this approach has the potential to secure a substantial market share. I am ready for the extensive learning ahead, understanding that I have much to gain and a long yet rewarding journey ahead," he said.
Phil Turner
Phil's family-owned pie business dates back to the 1930s. After buying his parents' small bakery at the tender age of 21, Phil has built it into a "seven-figure profitable business".
"I deserve Lord Sugar's investment because I already have a track record of successfully building and scaling a business," he said. "I have learnt how to run a business the hard way, and now I feel like it’s time to take my business to the next level.
Rachel Woolford
Boutique fitness studio owner Rachel opened her business in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic, and created "a strong community of clients who loved the service we provided, despite all the restrictions and limitations in place".
When asked why she deserves the investment, Rachel said: "Anyone in business must work hard, but I work harder!"
Raj Chohan
Mortgage Broker Raj is a self-confessed "dog with a bone" when it comes to meeting her targets.
Raj, who is based in Leamington Spa, says her biggest success to date is being awarded Mortgage Broker of the year in September 2023 and also Silver Award winner of Best Businesswoman in Finance.
Sam Saadet
Sam is a pre and post natal fitness coach from Essex. Known to her friends as "part-wheeler dealer" Sam has an eye for a bargain and says her biggest success is "launching my pre and post-natal fitness app whilst looking after two young children.
"I deserve Lord Sugar's investment because I am one of the savviest, go-getting women I know!" she said. "This business is all focused on something I am very passionate about whilst also making money too - it's a win win."
Steve Darken
London-based management consultant Steve is a "dedicated business and tech leader who smashes every goal and challenge set".
"I know Lord Sugar would be an incredible mentor, and we would work very well together – our differences are complementary, and our partnership would be guaranteed to turn any venture into a multi-million-pound success," he said.
Tre Lowe
Music and wellness entrepreneur Tre is perhaps best recognised as one-half of UK garage band Architechs.
Tre decided to create a Personal Training & well-being business after being forced to give up DJing due to severe tinnitus.
"I know that I am different from most people that have been on the show, being slightly older, from a creative background and with internationally successful music. I believe the future of entrepreneurism will be about the personal stories, challenges, and triumphs of the founders," he said.
Virdi Singh Mazaria
DJ Virdi wants to use his background as both an auditor and a producer to introduce Lord Sugar to a lucrative industry.
"I bring more than just entrepreneurship to the table," he said. "I am a creator of unmatched experiences, a performer, my ambition is relentless setting me apart in the fast-paced world of business. With Lord Sugar as my business partner, I am ready to step into a realm of remarkable success."
Watch The Apprentice on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from Thursday 1 February at 9pm.
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| 2024-01-30T14:20:45Z
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There's no compliment quite like being told, 'you smell nice,' or being asked by a total stranger which perfume you're wearing.
Some scents are guaranteed head-turners, with compliments piling in each time you spritz it - and with Valentine's Day just around the corner, that's exactly the kind of attention-grabbing fragrance we want to be wearing.
With an extensive fragrance wardrobe to choose from, we asked HELLO!'s Beauty Collective to share the scent that always gets complimented, making it the ideal date night fragrance. Read on for their picks...
Melanie Macleod, HELLO! Wellness Editor: Tom Ford Black Orchid
"Roll your eyes at my cliche date night choice if you want, but this heady, sexy fragrance is always reserved for the fanciest of evenings, be it a night in a posh hotel, a fancy dinner or a black tie occasion (not that I am invited to many of those!), so every time I spray the iconic black and gold bottle, I’m reminded of the best of times.
"I first fell in love with the scent when a friend of mine was wearing it years ago, and I had to ask her what it was so I could buy a bottle myself and while for many people it's an instantly recognisable fragrance, people still ask me what I'm wearing every time I choose to spray this - a sure sign that it's an incredible scent.
"I try not to ‘keep things for best’ but I do with Black Orchid and not only does it make the extortionate price seem more reasonable, my brain just knows it’s a special evening if I spray this, setting me up for a good night, no matter where date night takes me."
MORE BEAUTY COLLECTIVE: How I fell back in love with my skincare routine
Kate Lockett, HELLO! Health and Beauty Editor: Moncler Sunrise Pour Homme
"For as long as I can remember, I have always preferred woody, traditionally ‘male’ fragrances. Perhaps it was David Beckham’s Respect fragrance and my unwavering crush that sparked this love. Rather than powdery rose and floral notes, I am more swayed by leathery, aromatic aromas, which is why this Valentine's Day, I will be dousing myself in Moncler Sunrise Pour Homme.
"It was love at first spritz, as this bright smooth fragrance dries down to a sophisticated warm scent on the skin. Containing fresh lemon, pink peppercorn, warm suede and vetiver, it’s fresh, spicy, warm and smoky - everything you want to smell like on a date night. With incredible staying power, if you’re like me, you won’t want to get dressed without it."
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Lydia Mormen, HELLO! Junior Beauty Writer: Guerlain Neroli Outrenoir
"Everything about Guerlain feels so luxurious and special. While this is a definite investment in your date nights (or any special occasion) it is a unique fragrance and perfect if you’re looking for something different that you won’t smell on everyone. It’s the one scent on my shelf all my friends sneak a spritz of when they come over.
"I love a white floral but for a special evening, they can often smell a bit too fresh. While this does contain neroli, it’s described by the perfumer as “a contrast between light and dark” and that’s exactly how I’d describe it. It has a smoky, warm undertone thanks to the addition of smoked tea that adds an irresistible spiciness, but the freshness of the neroli still peeps through. If you get a chance, go to a Guerlain store to try it."
MORE FROM LYDIA: How to run the ultimate bath - according to experts
Beatriz Colon, HELLO! US Writer: Diptyque Orphéon
"When it comes to date night – or any night out, to be honest – the only answer you will ever get from me when it comes to my scent of choice is undoubtedly Diptyque's Orphéon scent. It is quite the splurge, but one that I justify first with the fact that I've owned it since it launched in 2021, and I still have about a quarter of the bottle left, but even more, so the fact that never have I ever gotten more compliments on a scent than I have with Orphéon.
"Without fail from the moment I step out the door, the night out won't end without my getting compliments from friends and dates alike as soon as I greet them; heck, I've even gotten compliments from Uber drivers when I step into their car before I even get to my date night destination!
"The scent is inspired by Paris in the 1960s, specifically the jazz clubs of Saint-Germain and boasts a combination of tonka bean, cedar, jasmine and juniper berries that I promise will leave your date, and everyone else, totally captivated. (Not to mention a little goes a long way, and I'm always pulling out clothes I last wore months ago that still smell of Orphéon)."
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Donna Francis, HELLO! Beauty Expert: Byredo Slow Dance
"My husband bought me this for Christmas last year and it is my go-to when I go out for dinner and I want to feel sophisticated. It’s like the little black dress of my fragrance wardrobe. It’s sweeter than some of my other favourite perfumes, but after a few minutes, it becomes more musky and intense. It does have a bit of an ‘aftershave’ scent to it and the website says that it ‘mixes ideas of the feminine and masculine, bitter and sweet,’ and I couldn’t explain it better myself.
MORE FROM DONNA: I’ve been a Beauty Editor for 25 years and these are the products I will be repeat buying in 2024
"I must admit that I have become a bit of a fragrance snob with age and I always recommend Byredo if you’re looking for a new scent. They have such a gorgeous selection of fragrances, you are bound to find one that fits your personality and mood."
Subscribe to HELLO!'s Beauty Collective newsletter for exclusive content straight to your inbox.
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| 2024-01-30T14:20:51Z
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How did you sleep last night? If you woke up mid-slumber, you're probably not feeling as well-rested as you could be today.
While feeling tired is annoying, there are more serious implications of disrupted sleep, according to registered nutritional therapist Elena Rolt. "Ongoing sleep fragmentation will be affecting pretty much every single physiological function in your body, from immune system and metabolism to mood regulation and food choices," she warned.
As for the benefits of unbroken sleep, Elena listed better memory, more creativity, better metabolic health, reduced food cravings, feeling less anxious and depressed, plus a lower risk of diabetes, dementia, cancer, heart attacks, flus and colds – suddenly disrupted sleep seems like something to pay attention to, rather than just hoping to sleep through the night next time.
While there are of course many reasons we might wake up during the night, Elena explained that there's one nighttime habit many of us indulge in that is making us wake up.
Why do I wake up in the night?
"Eating too close to bedtime could significantly impact the sleep quality for several reasons," cautions Elena.
"We become less insulin sensitive towards the evening, which means that your body works extra hard to regulate the blood sugar after a heavy meal eaten late in the evening, particularly carbohydrates heavy, such as pasta, pizza or potatoes."
Elena explains that a carb-heavy meal eaten in the evening can cause an insulin spike while you're sleeping, followed by a sharp decrease in blood sugar levels which your body finds stressful.
To counteract the low blood sugar, your body releases cortisol (the stress hormone), which will cause you to wake up, disrupting your sleep cycle.
Elena adds that digesting a heavy meal late at night is an energy-demanding process that will raise a core body temperature. "This also prevents you from going into a restful sleep and may well wake you up at night, as restorative sleep requires lower core body temperature."
How to sleep through the night
With this in mind, Elena recommends no food for two hours before bed – so if you plan for a 10pm bedtime, aim to stop eating by 8pm to ensure a solid sleep.
This makes up part of Elena's 'Nocturnal No-Nos: 1-2-3-4 Rule,' which she explained to HELLO! when we met her at The Londoner, where she is the resident functional nutritional therapist.
READ: I spent £150 a week trying to cure my insomnia – here's what actually works
"One hour before bedtime, implement a no screens rule," Elena explains. "Two hours before bed, avoid food. Three hours before bed stop drinking alcohol and four hours before bed avoid intensive exercise, such as HIIT workouts, intense cardio or heavy weight lifting.
"Caffeine is another big stimulant. Caffeine has a half-life of six hours, which means that six hours after you had your coffee, you still have half of that caffeine circulating in your bloodstream. Try to stop drinking coffee after 12pm and see if your sleep quality improves," Elena advises.
Keen to impart her wisdom to anyone who might be struggling with sleep and other health woes, Elena created the Stay & Rejuvenate wellness package at The Londoner, which sees guests treated to an overnight stay at the luxury hotel, plus a bespoke consultation with Elena and access to the hotel's spa, The Retreat.
The package includes a body treatment hand-selected by Elena, combining a body scrub and a scalp massage, designed to ease tension, support lymph flow and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
The combination of elements creates a state of tranquillity setting you up for a restorative night’s sleep. While the treatment is undeniably blissful, the sumptuous rooms at the Londoner are sure to have a helping hand in a restful sleep, with plush blush pink décor, the fluffiest hotel slippers in the world and ambient lighting to lull you into a deep sleep.
As for the consultation with Elena – you'll definitely find it eye-opening. During a 20-minute chat, Elena touched on everything from gut health to sleeplessness to hormone health, explaining everything in an accessible, non-intimidating way.
I've met with nutritional therapists before and come out of the session feeling more baffled than when I went in, but Elena gives no-nonsense, actionable guidance that's easy to fit into your lifestyle. She's not asking clients to overhaul their lives but to simply make small, manageable changes that will make all the difference.
Book The Londone's Stay & Rejuvenate wellness package, available until 29 February 2024.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/512279/night-habit-ruining-sleep/
| 2024-01-30T14:20:58Z
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It'll come as a surprise to no one that as the owner of a leading fashion house and mother-of-four, Victoria Beckham's mornings are a little hectic. As a result, the wife of David Beckham, 49, likes to ensure she schedules some 'me-time'.
For Victoria, her way of doing so is movement. Whether she's pictured at her beloved soul cycle classes or posting workout videos and snaps from her at-home gym, it's clear she prioritises her fitness.
In a previous interview with The Guardian, Victoria explained her exercise regime is her opportunity to focus on herself, and usually takes place first thing in the morning at her home in West London before taking her daughter Harper, 12, on the school run.
Specifically, the fashion designer hops on the treadmill to clear her head and prioritise alone time. "For me, that's where I go in the morning, that's 'me' time."
Victoria added: "It's not just about how it makes you look. It's how it makes you feel. It really gets me ready for the day. It clears my mind. It's also where I have lots of ideas. It's a time when I'm not on the phone, I'm not with the children, I'm not with David; I can literally just be left alone."
In another interview with the Guardian Weekend magazine, Victoria spoke again of her love of the treadmill, explaining she likes to utilise the early morning hours between 5.30 am and 6.30 am to bag a clean 7km under her belt.
She said: "It's a mix of uphill fast walking, jogging, running. That's the only time I watch TV – boxsets, documentaries – so I look forward to that. It takes 45 minutes".
As well as jumping on a running machine, the former Spice Girls singer clearly likes to add dimension to her workout routines. Victoria often shares videos of her workout out alongside her husband, including one of them lying down on the exercise mat and holding hands as they perform some leg-up crunches.
MORE: Brooklyn Beckham's latest fashion statement was straight from Victoria's style manual
But, Victoria is also open about the fact that she works closely with a personal trainer, too. She's explained in the past how she and PT Gunnar Peterson will do 30 minutes of arms, legs and toning and conditioning for the core.
"[It's] a really positive thing for me. It’s part of who I am now, and I really enjoy it", she said previously.
Meanwhile, VB also shared her other morning routine in addition to a seven-kilometre run. The star has two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, telling her fans that she does this every morning on an empty stomach.
"Whilst my @VictoriaBeckhamBeauty Priming Moisturiser in Golden helps with that instant golden glow," she said in the caption, adding: "I can see the difference in my skin texture and radiance from taking care of myself, with regular exercise and other wellness tricks I've picked up along the way from experts and friends."
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| 2024-01-30T14:21:04Z
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Bright, healthy skin is hard to imitate, especially if you're an A-lister dealing with unforgiving call times. A lack of sleep can leave your skin looking dull and sluggish, luckily the perfect makeup antidote presents itself in the form of a dewy cream blush formula.
Lily James' makeup artist Valeria Ferreira makes light work of the task, continually ensuring that the Rebecca actress looks awake and perky at any given moment.
In a recent Instagram post, the internationally renowned makeup artist – who is in high demand among modern belles, having worked with the likes of Margot Robbie, Rosamund Pike and Dakota Johnson – shared a photo of Lily in which she exemplified soft-focus, fresh summer skin.
For the benefit of beauty obsessives (guilty as charged), Valeria provided the goods and delivered a step-by-step product breakdown.
MORE: Lily James' Fashion Awards 'elevated makeup' look is so easy to recreate
READ: Lily James' 'quiet luxury' satin skirt is a must-have this season
Bringing vitality back into the face is usually achieved by applying blush onto the apples of the cheeks, but Valeria's method, including the placement of pigment over the nose, felt both offbeat and creative.
"We blushed over cheeks and bridge of the nose first with @tower28beauty cream blush and set it all up with @armanibeauty new blush in amore. I absolutely love this blush so silky and easy to use, it truly glides on leaving no demarcation lines," she explained in the caption.
READ: Lily James’ beauty routine is perfect for self-care addicts
RELATED: Lily James dazzles in crystal plunge dress for new Versace campaign
Tower28's BeachPlease Luminous Tinted Balm – which retails at £21 – is a warm weather makeup favourite among many beauty editors.
But by using it to imitate where the sun would naturally hit the face for super beachy and natural effect? Pure genius.
READ: Lily James weaves winter elegance with the most unexpected trousers
Time for a 'W' blush trend renaissance we reckon…
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| 2024-01-30T14:21:10Z
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One of our fashion highlights of 2023 was undoubtedly Rita Ora's showstopping summer wardrobe.
From daring low-rise mini skirts to 90s accessories and her dazzling lime green swimsuit - the singer, designer and wife of Taika Waititi provided epic sartorial inspiration all season long.
Although winter is still in full swing, she's back influencing our warm-weather shopping lists with her first bikini selfie of 2024.
Perhaps the only person in France to be wearing a bikini in January, Rita shared a round up of her outfits on Instagram during Paris Couture Week, which also fell on the week of her mother's 60th birthday (what a way to celebrate).
MORE: Rita Ora just perfected the 'Mob Wife' aesthetic at Paris Fashion Week
READ: Rita Ora's unexpected Dior Fashion Show outfit was utterly TikTok-approved
The photo dump captioned "Paris was the best time with my family for my Mum’s 60th" included a plethora of 'Mob Wife' approved outfits - her go-to aesthetic throughout fashion week. But the look that caught us by surprise was a mirror selfie of the 33-year-old wearing a tiny triangular bikini top adorned with a multi-coloured abstract pattern and matching bottoms from Gonza - a swimwear brand owned and founded by Latina popstar Becky G.
The minuscule top silhouette is bang on trend for 2024: both Emily Ratajkowski and Kendall Jenner hard-launched the itsy bitsy bikini trend earlier this month. Emily shared a photo with her 30m followers wearing a cheerful blue bikini top adorned with contrasting red hearts, whilst Kendall took tiny two pieces on her tropical New Year's trip in colourways from creme and burnt orange to lime green and chocolate brown.
Rita has not gatekept any of her Parisian street style looks this January and we are in awe. She previously posted another Couture Week street style round up which consisted of bouclé jackets, navy, and plenty of dramatically fluffy outfits.
She was the ultimate style icon last year and is staying firmly on our radars for 2024...
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| 2024-01-30T14:21:16Z
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Victoria Beckham's ultra-refined style agenda is one of the most coveted on the planet.
She's gone from pop star glam to fashion designer chic, which is reflected in the flattering, feminine pieces in her eponymous brand's collections. And now more than ever celebrities and influencers alike are donning pieces from her namesake label to get her look - from Sydney Sweeney to Julia Roberts.
More often than not, VB's dress code also includes pieces from her own brand: form-fitting ruched dresses, wide-leg trousers and of course, her cult-adored accessories. And one of her staple silhouettes, which hasn't left her style agenda since the 90s, is a slinky black bodycon dress that fits like a glove.
Though her brand's pieces may be just slightly over budget, I found a dress in H&M that mimics her effortlessly chic style without the designer price tag - and it's currently on sale.
The Gathered Turtleneck Dress immediately caught my eye when shopping in-store because it's such an iconic, classic VB silhouette. It boasts flattering ruching across the body, a high neck and a slight split at the side of the leg.
Admittedly, I was sceptical when picking it up, as sometimes high street dresses do not fit as nicely as designer pieces (not forgetting Victoria gets her clothes tailored on her own body), but I was pleasantly surprised at how well it sculpted the body, yet wasn't see-through in the slightest. The dress oozed sophistication, and I'd style it with knee-high boots and a statement clutch bag for the ultimate day-to-night look.
Not only does it look way more expensive than the original price tag of £21.99, but it's currently on sale online for £14.00.
The best thing about Victoria's style agenda is not only is it flattering, but her minimalistic colour palette pairs with everything, so why not make it your own and add your favourite accessories already in your wardrobe?
I am certain VB would wholly approve of the insanely affordable dress...
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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| 2024-01-30T14:21:22Z
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Everyone wants to protect their families and their valuables from harm's way, but that is an even bigger concern for celebrities who are often targeted by burglars and stalkers.
That's why George Clooney has extensive security cameras on his grounds, Kim Kardashian has an on-site security pod at her gated community and Victoria Beckham has a secret underground escape tunnel. See stars who have gone above and beyond the traditional alarm or door camera with their home security - we're sure there are plenty more hidden security features we don't know about.
Victoria and David Beckham
David and Victoria Beckham submitted planning permission to implement extra security measures at their Cotswolds home in 2020.
They wanted to add a gatehouse with two security huts that would be manned 24 hours a day even when the couple weren't visiting, as well as an underground getaway tunnel.
David's planning application stated: "The proposed use of the outbuilding is solely in association with the main dwelling house. It will serve as a gatehouse to improve security for the occupants of the property."
Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank
Nottingham Cottage on the Kensington Palace estate has been home to Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank, as well as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle in the past.
To protect the royal residents, trained security officers are on site, with a former job application on The Historical Royal Palace's website stating the £26,000/per position includes diligent tasks such as keeping a log of daily events, CCTV watching and bag searching.
RELATED:
Rochelle and Marvin Humes
Before moving out of their family home in 2023, Rochelle Humes had given fans a peek at their impressive security system. While sharing a video of her daughters dancing around their kitchen, The Hit List star inadvertently revealed their CCTV system.
On a wall-mounted TV, nine different cameras – including ones of her driveway and backyard – gave a full picture of their grounds to give them peace of mind.
King Charles and Queen Camilla
King Charles and Queen Camilla's summer home Highgrove House has a number of security features – some visible and some less obvious.
Not only do they have a large stone wall around the perimeter and an aerial exclusion zone for civilian aircraft overhead, but the public footpath has also been removed.
While photographer Arthur Edwards previously opened up about a run-in with the royal on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, the public transport section of Highgrove House website reads: "It is just two miles from Tetbury to the Estate, but there is no proper public footpath."
Inside, a secret panic room is also available to the heir and his wife.
Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian already lives in a gated complex in Hidden Hills, but she has taken further measures to ensure her safety at home.
In 2023, TMZ reported that the community had added more security guards to its staff. Plus, when The Kardashians star lived with her husband Kanye West, they reportedly had a 24/7 manned security pod in their garage to ensure no unexpected guests. When Vogue's Jonathan Van Meter visited the California property, he noted their "Pentagon-level security" and "forbidding front door."
This was all alongside the traditional burglar alarms and outdoor cameras, of course.
Britney Spears
Despite having heightened security for her wedding with Sam Asghari in 2022, Britney Spears' home was still not impenetrable. After her ex-husband Jason Alexander trespassed on their big day, the Lucky singer reportedly got a new set of security guards.
In the New York Times Presents: Controlling Britney Spears documentary, former employee of Black Box Security Alex Vlasov also alleged there were "audio recording devices" in the singer's bedroom during her 13-year conservatorship.
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi
Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi were inside their Montecito mansion when burglars targeted the property and got away with high-value jewellery. TMZ reported that the couple immediately implemented better security in the aftermath.
They are thought to have hired a new security company with armed patrol guards and installed cameras around the property.
Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson
Prince Andrew and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson live at Royal Lodge where they are not only sheltered from prying eyes thanks to the gates and long driveway but also have a security team to turn away uninvited guests.
According to a report by the National Audit Office, Andrew's estate has police security accommodation to allow their team to stay overnight.
George and Amal Clooney
After their 2014 wedding, George Clooney and his wife Amal purchased a £10 million nine-bedroom manor house in Sonning, Berkshire. One of the first things he sought to change at the Grade II listed Aberlash House was the security weaknesses.
Back in 2015, he got planning permission approved for an extensive CCTV system that included ten security cameras around the house, and more installed on 18-foot wooden poles around the perimeter of the property's four-acre grounds. We imagine these security measures have been updated since then.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/homes/512296/high-security-celebrity-homes-king-charles-victoria-beckham-more/
| 2024-01-30T14:21:28Z
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The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have faced another blow to their team following a new departure earlier this month.
It's been revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle said goodbye to Bennett Levine, the manager of Archewell Productions – the company which was set up in October 2020. Confirming his news on social media, Bennett updated his LinkedIn profile and announced: "I'm happy to share that I'm starting a new position at Cinetic Media."
According to Daily Mail's Richard Eden, the departure was a "blow to the company".
Bennett was originally welcomed to the team as co-ordinator for the business in 2021. He was then promoted to be the manager of Archewell in 2022.
Productions released through Archewell Productions include Netflix documentaries Harry & Meghan and Heart of Invictus, which focuses on the Invictus Games, as well as animated children's series Pearl.
Prince Harry and Meghan's journey began in earnest after they stepped back as senior royal members in March 2020 and swapped the UK for sunny California. They then signed an impressive deal with Netflix, rumoured to be worth £80million and something that ends in 2025.
Their docuseries Harry & Meghan, released at the tail end of 2022, smashed global records, making it an instant sensation. Despite this phenomenal success, there were murmurings about Netflix pressing the couple to bring forth more projects to secure the rest of their deal.
However, reports that the Duke and Duchess may end their Netflix deal were fuelled by their recent trip to Jamaica for the film premiere of Bob Marley: One Love. It's been reported that the couple were invited as guests of rival Paramount Pictures.
Meanwhile, back in June, Prince Harry and Meghan also reached the end of their Spotify deal as Meghan's podcast, Archetypes, was not renewed for a second season. The news was confirmed through a joint statement by Archewell Audio, the couple's content creation label, and Spotify. Former Suits star Meghan served as the host of Archetypes, a thought-provoking podcast that explored the history of stereotypes against women.
Over the course of 12 episodes which aired from August 2022, Meghan engaged in conversations with notable figures such as tennis star Serena Williams, singer Mariah Carey, Paris Hilton, and actors Mindy Kaling and Constance Wu. A joint statement from Archewell and Spotify expressed mutual agreement in parting ways and highlighted the pride they felt for the series they created together.
"Spotify and Archewell Audio have mutually agreed to part ways and are proud of the series we made together," a representative told HELLO! at the time.
The Sussexes' deal with Spotify, signed in late 2020, was reported to be worth approximately $25 million (£18 million). It aimed to position them as hosts and producers of podcasts, showcasing their storytelling abilities and sharing impactful narratives with a global audience.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/512336/prince-harry-meghan-markle-new-change/
| 2024-01-30T14:21:35Z
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SEOUL - It was like a second stab to the heart for Mr Lee Jung-min, who lost his daughter in an Itaewon crowd crush in October 2022 in which 159 people died.
“Please just kill me too,” he cried in anguish as he collapsed to the ground upon hearing that South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol had vetoed a parliamentary Bill for a renewed inquiry into the Oct 29 incident, where thousands of mainly young partygoers converged in a narrow alley in the entertainment district with tragic consequences.
Mr Lee, whose daughter Joo-young, was 28 when she died, was among more than 50 bereaved family members protesting outside Seoul’s government complex on Jan 30.
Inside, Prime Minister Han Duck-soo presided over a Cabinet meeting, where he said that the proposed opposition-backed Itaewon Disaster Special Act called for a special 11-member investigative committee to be set up, which could lead to the misuse of administrative resources and further polarise public opinion. He said the Bill’s proposers had so far failed to prove that the earlier police investigations were problematic.
The ruling People’s Power Party (PPP) has maintained that the desire of the families for an independent inquiry on top of official investigations has been used by the opposition Democratic Party (DP) for political gain.
“The pain from the disaster cannot be used as a tool to justify political strife and a possibility of unconstitutionality,” Mr Han told the Cabinet.
Instead, he announced the formation of a special committee to look into compensation and support for survivors and victims’ family members, as well as the installation of a new memorial altar to replace the temporary set-up currently at Seoul’s City Hall.
Clutching the bars of the gate to the complex, bereaved family members shouted slogans amid tears and wails as police officers surrounded them to shield them from the traffic.
Family members are demanding accountability from the authorities following the investigations, which concluded in January 2023 that the disaster was “man-made”, caused by the failure of disaster prevention measures and the slow emergency response.
A total of 23 government officials, including the chief of Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, were indicted in January 2024 by the South Korean prosecutor’s office on charges of professional negligence and others, but the trial process has been slow.
Madam Sunny Kang, who lost her only daughter Lee Sang-eun in the tragedy, told The Straits Times that she was heartbroken over the rejection of the Bill.
“It’s been 460 days since our child left, and during this period we have been eagerly anticipating and hoping for a thorough investigation. It’s heartbreaking to know that the President has rejected it.”
Mr Lee, who leads the Association of Families of Itaewon Disaster Victims, which represents some 210 family members of 110 victims, said the government was trying to shirk its responsibility.
He told ST: “It was infuriating to witness the government brushing aside and ignoring the voices of these citizens. I think the government’s refusal to enact this special law stems from its recognition of the immense responsibility it holds for the Itaewon tragedy.”
Mr Lee added that the offer of compensation more than a year after the tragedy was “pathetic”.
“Throughout the past year, not once did we request compensation or damages. What we want is to know the truth behind our children’s deaths. Repeatedly trying to cover it up and offering money in this way is so insincere and truly a pathetic approach.
“How can we possibly live happily after receiving money for sending our children away?”
Madam Kang said such an offer only inflicts more pain.
Holding back tears, she said: “As fellow human beings, is it right to inflict secondary harm by discussing compensation and such issues when all we want is the truth? This is truly disheartening.”
The Itaewon Disaster Special Act is at the core of a political tussle ahead of the upcoming legislative elections in April.
Lawmakers in the ruling PPP boycotted the vote when the Bill was tabled in a parliamentary sitting on Jan 9.
The opposition-dominated National Assembly got it passed with a majority vote of 177 votes from 298 seats, but it then went to the President, who holds the right to veto.
A Bill that is vetoed can still have a revote at the National Assembly, but will require a two-thirds majority to pass.
Even before Mr Yoon exercised his veto, DP leader Lee Jae-myung had slammed the ruling administration for being “cold-blooded”.
Despite the opposition’s politicisation of the issue, Dr Bong Young-shik of Yonsei University did not think it would have a strong impact on the upcoming elections, given the amount of time that had passed since the tragedy.
“It is going to be a source of harassment for the ruling party and presidency, yes, but not a decisive blow to their political standing,” he said. “People’s memories of the incident have been fading away, except for the survivors and family members.”
He felt that the government has made an effective defence in blocking the Bill, by meeting some of the demands outlined in it.
“The special Act has two pillars. One is the provision of due compensation and support for the victims and the family members, and the other is truth-finding, which should be left in the hands of the prosecutor’s office and the government.”
Dr Bong also noted that people are beginning to feel that the opposition is abusing its dominance in the National Assembly to politicise critical issues and undercut the standing of the President and the ruling party.
“That really helps reinforce the argument of the president’s office and the ruling party that the opposition is not genuinely interested in finding the truth or helping the victims, they just want to weaponise these issues,” he said.
President Yoon has exercised his right to veto five times, to reject nine Bills during his tenure, which the opposition has derided as excessive.
But Mr Lee said the bereaved families just wanted the truth, and not to be caught up in the political crossfire.
He is also not giving up hope.
“Our purpose for living is, first and foremost, to determine the cause of why our children ended up the way they did. As long as that purpose exists, we will do our utmost, until the day we die, to uncover the truth.”
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/yoon-s-veto-of-bill-to-reinvestigate-itaewon-tragedy-reopens-wounds-for-victims-families
| 2024-01-30T14:49:18Z
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MANILA – The Philippines and Vietnam on Jan 30 forged deals to bolster their maritime cooperation in the South China Sea, shoring up trust between the two nations as they continue to face a more assertive Beijing.
The countries signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) during Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s two-day state visit to Hanoi. The first seeks to prevent untoward incidents in the South China Sea, with both sides agreeing to intensify efforts to “promote trust, confidence and understanding, through dialogue and cooperative activities”.
The other MOU aims to improve cooperation between the Philippine Coast Guard and the Vietnam Coast Guard, including setting up a direct hotline communication mechanism between the two forces.
Beijing claims sovereignty over almost the entirety of the South China Sea, including parts of the exclusive economic zones of the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbritration in 2016 ruled that China’s claims had no legal basis.
Beijing has refused to recognise this ruling and has instead ramped up its military presence and artificial island-building activities in the South China Sea.
In the past months, it has shadowed and fired water cannons at Philippine ships bringing supplies to troops stationed at a remote military outpost on the Second Thomas Shoal.
On Jan 12, Chinese Coast Guard personnel were also caught on video chasing Filipino fishermen who were collecting sea shells near Scarborough Shoal.
In his meeting with Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Mr Marcos said the Philippines is committed to partnering with a “like-minded state” like Vietnam to ensure a rules-based international order in the Asia-Pacific region.
“As maritime nations, we share a similar assessment of the current state of our regional environment with other maritime nations of the Asia Pacific. Our countries have crucial roles to play in shaping the regional security discourse and in upholding the rules-based international order,” he said.
The Chinese Embassy in Manila did not respond to queries about the signed agreements.
The pacts will allow both South-east Asian nations to “enhance confidence-building measures” to improve conditions along their maritime border, said defence analyst Don McLain Gill of the De La Salle University in Manila.
He said they could also pave the way for a potential breakthrough similar to what Vietnam achieved with Indonesia in 2022 to set and agree the boundaries of their exclusive economic zones within the South China Sea.
Manila and Hanoi have overlapping claims in parts of the South China Sea, including the Spratlys archipelago, which is considered the traditional fishing ground of Filipino and Vietnamese fisherfolk.
“Such a breakthrough will be a crucial for strengthening the value of international law in the tumultuous waters of the greater South China Sea and the West Philippine Sea in particular,” said Mr Gill, using the term with which Manila refers to parts of the South China Sea that lie within the country’s exclusive economic zone.
The latest agreements also show that it is possible for countries with competing interests in the South China Sea to find areas of cooperation to deal with a much influential and powerful neighbour like Beijing, said maritime security expert Collin Koh of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.
“Perhaps we might not reach unanimity on the South China Sea amongst all 10 members, but we can at best seek convergences. So I think this latest set of agreements between the Philippines and Vietnam appear geared towards that aim,” said Dr Koh.
He said the agreements will also allow the Philippines and Vietnam to be more strategic in harnessing their scarce resources and capacities “where they’re most needed,” as they deal with China’s superior maritime forces.
If all goes well, said the two analysts, the Philippines-Vietnam pacts could help Asean finalise the long-delayed code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea that it has been negotiating with Beijing.
“Hopefully this helps in the code of conduct discussions at the intra-Asean level concerning various issues, before the bloc sits at the table with China,” said Dr Koh.
In 2023, Mr Marcos began wooing Vietnam and Malaysia to create a separate COC, citing the slow negotiations between Asean and Beijing.
At the meeting with his Philippine counterpart, Mr Chinh said that claimants in the South China Sea should work on an “effective and substantive” Code of Conduct that complies with international laws, in particular the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (Unclos).
The 2016 tribunal ruling that rejected Beijing’s nine-dash line claim was based on the Unclos.
The agreements, however, are just a start to grow trust between the Philippines and Vietnam, and analysts said it is still too early to conclude just how united the duo would be against Beijing.
“Vietnamese foreign policy would prevent such an eventuality, unless it is a drastic resort as a result of certain Chinese behaviour that could push Hanoi toward that direction. Until then, I’ll think Vietnam will seek to avoid giving Beijing the impression that it’s ‘ganging up’ with Manila against it in the South China Sea,” said Dr Koh.
Mr Gill added that for now, the Philippines and Vietnam have signified their acknowledgement of the need to “work more closely together amid the uncertainties of regional politics”.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/philippines-vietnam-agree-to-cooperate-in-south-china-sea-amid-a-more-assertive-beijing
| 2024-01-30T14:49:28Z
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ANKARA - Turkey's parliament stripped on Tuesday the status of a jailed opposition lawmaker who had been at the center of a judicial crisis between two of the country's top courts.
Can Atalay, 47, was elected to parliament in May last year representing the Workers' Party of Turkey (TIP) - an ally of the big pro-Kurdish DEM party - while serving an 18-year prison sentence.
Turkey's top appeals court, the Court of Cassation, twice refused to release Atalay despite a Constitutional Court ruling that his rights to be elected were violated.
The Court of Cassation ruling that upheld Atalay's conviction was announced in parliament on Tuesday at the general assembly session. That resulted in parliament stripping his status. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/turkish-parliament-strips-status-of-opposition-mp-after-judicial-clash
| 2024-01-30T14:49:39Z
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WASHINGTON – The International Monetary Fund (IMF) raised its forecast for global growth in 2024 on better-than-expected expansion in the United States and fiscal stimulus in China, while warning of risks from wars and inflation.
The world economy will grow 3.1 per cent in 2024, up from 2.9 per cent seen in October, the Washington-based institution said in its quarterly World Economic Outlook on Jan 30.
The fund kept its 2025 forecast unchanged at 3.2 per cent.
Tighter central bank policy to fight inflation and public spending cuts in some countries are among the reasons why growth is expected to be slower than in the two decades before the pandemic, when it averaged 3.8 per cent.
Still, given the scale of the Covid-19 price shocks and the interest-rate hikes that followed, the IMF suggested things could have gone much worse.
“The global economy continues to display remarkable resilience, and we are now in the final descent toward a soft landing, with inflation declining steadily and growth holding up,” IMF chief economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas said in a briefing. “But the pace of expansion remains on the slow side, and there might be turbulence ahead.”
Downside risks
Among the downside risks cited by the IMF are new commodity price spikes caused by geopolitical shocks and global supply disruptions – such as attacks by Houthis in the Red Sea or a widening conflict in the Middle East – or more tenacious inflation that might force central banks to keep interest rates higher for longer.
The IMF’s forecasts assume commodities prices, including fuel, will drop in 2024 and 2025, and that interest rates will ease in major economies.
The fund’s economists factored in, for instance, that the Federal Reserve, European Central Bank and Bank of England will hold interest rates in the first half of 2024 before gradually reducing them as inflation slows.
The IMF said inflation in the fourth quarter cooled more than projected as energy prices eased, and that it expects the deceleration to continue through 2025, bringing global inflation down to 4.4 per cent from 6.8 per cent.
Advanced economies are estimated to see faster disinflation than emerging markets.
The fund repeated its warning about possible fragmentation of global trade into rival blocs, forecasting world trade growth of 3.3 per cent in 2024 and 3.6 per cent in 2025, below the historical average rate of 4.9 per cent.
Nations imposed about 3,000 new trade restrictions in 2023, almost three times the number in 2019, the IMF said.
For central banks, the IMF said the challenge is to normalise monetary policy and “deliver a smooth landing, neither lowering rates prematurely nor delaying such lowering too much”.
The IMF is watching the possibility of an escalation of conflict in the Middle East and “we remain vigilant”, Mr Gourinchas said. “At this point, the implications in terms of supply disruptions and what this might imply for overall inflation remains relatively limited.”
Growth for most
For the US, the IMF raised its growth expectation to 2.1 per cent from a previous forecast of 1.5 per cent, based on higher-than-estimated consumer spending at the end of 2023.
That is still a slowdown from 2.5 per cent growth in 2023 due to the delayed impact from the highest Fed rates in two decades, gradual fiscal tightening and a weakening labour market holding back demand.
The euro area’s growth forecast was cut to 0.9 per cent from 1.2 per cent previous, reflecting a weaker-than-expected outcome in 2023, which was due largely to the impact of the Ukraine war.
The IMF expects European consumers to boost spending as the effect of higher energy prices subsides.
China’s growth projection for 2024 was revised up to 4.6 per cent, from 4.2 per cent, reflecting stronger growth in 2023 and higher government spending to guard against natural disasters.
India’s economy is expected to be among the fastest-growing in the world at 6.5 per cent, up from a prior 6.3 per cent forecast.
Russia is expected to expand 2.6 per cent in 2024, up from an earlier 1.1 per cent estimate, in part reflecting high military spending and private consumption.
Argentina was slashed to a 2.8 per cent contraction in 2024, from the previous estimate of a 2.8 per cent expansion made in October, before the election of President Javier Milei.
The IMF cited a “significant policy adjustment” under his new government, which so far has included eliminating subsidies and price controls, devaluing the currency by more than half and proposing plans to shore up government finances. BLOOMBERG
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/economy/imf-lifts-world-gdp-outlook-on-us-strength-china-fiscal-support
| 2024-01-30T14:49:49Z
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SINGAPORE - UOB is seeking to get $92 million from Indonesian developer Lippo Marina Collection (LMC) over losses incurred from disbursing approximately $182 million in inflated home loans.
The Appellate Division of the High Court had in Oct 2022 overturned an earlier decision, finding LMC liable for using unlawful means in a conspiracy with real estate agents to sell properties to be financed by UOB.
A three-day hearing that started on Jan 29 is focused on determining the amount of losses UOB is entitled to.
The housing loans, granted and disbursed between Dec 2011 and Sept 2013, were intended for the purchase of 38 units in Marina Collection, a high-end waterfront residential enclave developed and sold by LMC, a subsidiary of Indonesia’s Lippo Group.
UOB, represented by lawyer Eddee Ng of Tan Kok Quan Partnership, is not only seeking to recover the outstanding principal amount of the housing loans but also the cost of funding those loans, expenses related to investigations into the conspiracy, and costs associated with the repossession of the units.
Additionally, UOB aims to quantify its claims by considering what it could have earned from lending the funds to legitimate borrowers, along with statutory interest on the outstanding principal sum of the loan.
The long legal battle started in 2014 and concluded in 2022.
In a decision dated Oct 28, 2022, the Appellate Division of the High Court found that LMC had issued an option to purchase (OTP) to each buyer, intentionally providing false or inflated purchase prices for their respective units.
The courts had heard that LMC gave substantial “furniture rebates” of 22 per cent to 34 per cent that were used to offset cash payments required for the condo purchases.
The furniture rebates, which were not disclosed to UOB, inflated the prices of individual properties in OTP forms by the value of the rebates.
These misrepresentations were deemed pivotal as the entire financing and conveyancing processes for the 38 units were directly influenced by the inflated purchase prices.
LMC’s failure to disclose the actual purchase prices was seen as an effort to secure a loan higher than what would be obtainable if the furniture rebates had been accurately presented to UOB, noted Mr Ng in his opening statement.
“The conspiracy was planned by Lippo’s director, Ms Woo Pui Lim, and the second defendant, Rick Goh, to brazenly circumvent the Government’s property cooling measures,” said Mr Ng, pointing out that LMC had collaborated with the purchasers to deceive UOB.
The 124-unit Marina Collection was launched for sale in late 2007, but only 42 units were sold by March 10, 2011, after a series of cooling measures were introduced.
By Dec 2013, 36 buyers had defaulted on their loans. By April 1, 2015, all 38 buyers had defaulted on their loans.
UOB’s executive director and head of group credit management Kenneth Gan testified on the first day of the hearing that the conspiracy resulted in UOB suffering losses amounting to about $92 million after it financed more than 100 per cent of the purchase prices of the condominiums.
The court heard that as part of the bank’s efforts to mitigate losses, the repossessed units were rented out for rental income.
As at Oct 31, 2023, UOB had collected about $24.5 million in rental income. By Oct 6, 2023, the market value of the 37 units, excluding one unrepossessed unit, was $139.48 million.
Meanwhile, Senior Counsel Siraj Omar of Drew & Napier, representing LMC, argued that UOB failed to discharge its obligation to mitigate loss.
He highlighted UOB’s limited marketing efforts and questioned UOB’s entitlement to seek statutory interest, emphasising that the interest sought forms a significant portion of the total claim.
Mr Omar noted in his opening statement that UOB had benefited from rental and loan repayments over time, and the units served as security. Hence, UOB should not be entitled to seek statutory interest.
Mr Ng argued that UOB’s claim for statutory interest was based on the principle that such interest is intended to compensate a successful plaintiff for being wrongfully kept out of the monies to which it is entitled and reflected UOB’s cautious approach in quantifying damages.
During his cross-examination of Mr Gan on Jan 29, Mr Omar also pointed out that there was no attempt by UOB to market the properties even when property prices were rising, citing prices taken from Urban Redevelopment Authorities’ caveats.
According to UOB’s own evidence, the bank marketed only two units for sale from 2013 to 2014, and decided by Aug 26, 2014 not to sell any of the units.
It only revived its marketing efforts in 2023 by promoting two units, Mr Omar said in his opening statement.
Mr Gan explained that besides the Covid-19 pandemic, UOB was waiting for the outcome of the litigation.
At some point in 2023, the bank put up two units to “test the market”, but “in the six months that we tried, there was no offer”, said Mr Gan.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/property/uob-seeks-92-million-in-losses-from-developer-over-inflated-home-loans
| 2024-01-30T14:49:59Z
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SINGAPORE – Bidadari residents will have a more convenient way to get to Woodleigh and Bartley MRT stations when SBS Transit launches bus service 146 on Feb 25.
The new bus service will operate daily in a loop between Bartley Road and Bidadari Park Drive from 6am to midnight.
Buses will run at a frequency of 12 minutes during peak hours and 15 minutes during non-peak hours, said SBS Transit on Jan 30.
It will serve 16 bus stops in Bartley Road, Upper Serangoon Road and Bidadari Park Drive.
SBS Transit said service 146 will ply Bartley Road and Bidadari Park Drive until the new Woodleigh Bus Interchange is completed.
A poster of the bus route showed that the service will be extended to Hougang Avenue 3 in future.
Responding to queries, a Land Transport Authority spokesman said service 146 will operate from the new Woodleigh Bus Interchange when it is operational.
Construction is currently under way and its opening timeline is being finalised, he added.
The underground bus interchange is located next to Woodleigh MRT station, and forms part of the Housing Board’s Woodleigh Village mixed-use development.
Unveiled in 2013, Bidadari estate consists of 12 Build-To-Order developments across four districts – Alkaff, Bartley Heights, Park Edge and Woodleigh.
In May 2023, HDB said 6,418 of the 8,872 flats in the estate have been delivered, with the remaining 2,454 on track to be completed by 2025.
Residents living in Woodleigh told The Straits Times they welcomed the new bus service as they currently get to Woodleigh and Bartley MRT stations by walking.
Mr Aaron Choo, a tax manager, said it takes him about five minutes to walk to Woodleigh MRT from his home in Woodleigh Hillside.
The 32-year-old added: “If there is a new bus service, it would be a bonus.”
Other residents said they appreciate the new bus service because of the weather.
Maris Stella High School student Chan Jayu, 13, said he is looking forward to the new bus service, and added that he would take it often as he usually walks to the MRT stations or to school, which is near Bartley MRT.
Retiree John Yeo, who usually walks to the MRT stations, says the walk is inconvenient because he feels the shared path around the estate is narrow.
Mr Yeo, 62, said: “Having a bus would be helpful during rainy seasons since there is no shelter along the way.”
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https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/transport/new-bus-146-serving-bidadari-residents-to-start-on-feb-25
| 2024-01-30T14:50:10Z
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DOHA - Journalists who disrupted Iraq coach Jesus Casas's post-match press conference following Monday's Asian Cup last-16 defeat by Jordan have been banned from covering all AFC tournaments in the future, the confederation said on Tuesday.
Iraq were beaten 3-2 by Jordan in a game where Iraqi striker and tournament top scorer Aymen Hussein was sent off late on for his goal celebrations.
The man advantage helped Jordan regain control when they were 2-1 down and they scored twice in stoppage time to eliminate Iraq and move into the quarter-finals.
At the post-match press conference, furious Iraqi journalists were seen shouting at Casas and more than a dozen stormed out while pointing fingers at the Spanish coach. Some were led away by officials when they approached the podium.
"The AFC strongly condemns any type of unruly and aggressive behaviour and takes a zero-tolerance stance against such actions," it said in a statement.
"(The AFC) have taken the swift decision to bar the responsible individuals from covering not only the AFC Asian Cup but also future AFC tournaments."
Iraq's football association said the journalists' actions were a "black mark in Iraqi media history".
"These events have no connection to the authentic Iraqi media that is known for its honourable positions," Iraq's FA said.
"We denounce the blatant and abhorrent behaviour that occurred against the coach, and we confirm that we have decided not to deal with these media personnel who seek to cause chaos in the future.
"We will follow legal methods to restore the coach's reputation and approach the relevant authorities to explain what happened."
The AFC also condemned the targeting of Iranian referee Alireza Faghani after his red card to Hussein changed the complexion of the game and resulted in abuse on social media.
Faghani, who was named AFC Referee of the Year in 2016 and 2018, is based in Australia.
Football Australia told media outlets that Faghani and his family will receive their support and that they are also working with law enforcement agencies.
"While the AFC does not comment on individual refereeing performances, we strongly condemn any form of threat, harassment, or disclosure of personal information targeting our referees, players, officials and all stakeholders," AFC added.
"Such behaviour goes against the spirit of fair play and respect that we promote within the Asian football community." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/afc-ban-journalists-who-accosted-iraq-coach-after-asian-cup-exit
| 2024-01-30T14:50:20Z
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DOHA - Clubs worldwide spent a record $9.63 billion on international transfers in 2023, an increase of nearly 50% compared to 2022, world soccer's governing body FIFA said in its Global Transfer Report published on Tuesday.
After transfer spending fell in 2020 and 2021 due to the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, outlays on players have only increased, with last year's total spend seeing an increase of 48.1% compared to 2022.
The figure also smashed the previous record set in 2019 by more than $2 billion, with English clubs spending the most with a new high of $2.96 billion while four countries' associations received more than $1 billion in transfer fees in 2023.
England were followed by Saudi Arabian clubs who tried to draw some of the best players from European sides to the Saudi Pro League last year following the marquee signing of Cristiano Ronaldo, which saw several players move to the Middle East.
"Clubs from Saudi Arabia featured among the top five spenders for the first time with a total outlay of $970 million in 2023, compared to $50.4 million in 2022," FIFA said.
"Clubs from Germany were the number one recipients of transfer fees with a total of almost $1.21 billion, the first-ever time that clubs from any one association have received more than $1 billion in transfer fees in a calendar year.
"That being said, three more associations also joined Germany in this exclusive group in 2023: France ($1.19 billion), England ($1.04 billion) and Italy ($1.02 billion).
The top men's transfers include Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund to Real Madrid, Enzo Fernandez from Benfica to Chelsea and Harry Kane from Tottenham Hotspur to Bayern Munich.
"The top 10 player transfers alone generated more than 10% of the entire amount spent on transfer fees in 2023," FIFA added.
Women's football also had 20% more international transfers last year compared to 2022, with the number of clubs involved rising from 507 in 2022 to 623 in 2023.
FIFA said a record 131 associations were involved in 1,888 women's transfers, with the annual outlay hitting $6.1 million -- also a record and an 84.2% increase from 2022.
The biggest international transfers in women's football included Jill Roord from VfL Wolfsburg to Manchester City, Kyra Cooney-Cross from Hammarby to Arsenal and Lindsey Horan from Portland Thorns to Olympique Lyonnais.
However, 84.7% of the transfers were for out-of-contract women's players.
FIFA also said that more than 50,000 amateur players moved across borders to join a club in a new association, with 91.7% of those being male players. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:50:31Z
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English soccer regulating bodies including the FA, the Premier League, the EFL and PGMOL are "very concerned" about recent incidents of violence, discriminatory acts and pitch invasions, they said in a joint statement on Tuesday.
Sunday's FA Cup tie between Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion was interrrupted by clashes involving the two sides' supporters that left many injured.
On Saturday, a spectator invaded the pitch at Vale Park and chased the referee off the pitch during a League One clash between Port Vale and Portsmouth.
Earlier this month, AC Milan keeper Mike Maignan faced racist abuse at Udinese, an incident that drew condemnation from FIFA president Gianni Infantino and many others.
In December, Luton Town striker Carlton Morris reported an alleged racist comment from the crowd during their Premier League game at Sheffield United, prompting a police investigation.
"Acts of discrimination, violence and entering the field of play are all criminal offences – which can result in individuals receiving criminal convictions, football banning orders and life-time stadium bans," the joint statement said.
"While we understand that this behaviour is carried out by a small minority, we wish to remind everyone that these actions will not be tolerated."
They did not outline any new measures or punishments to prevent such behaviour.
The joint statement was also co-signed by the Football Supporters' Association (FSA), a representative body for soccer fans, and the UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU).
"We will collectively work together, alongside the police, to bring offenders to justice and stamp this out of our game," they added. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:50:41Z
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MANCHESTER, England - Manchester City will finally have striker Erling Haaland back in the squad when they play Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday, manager Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday.
Haaland is the joint-top goalscorer in the league this season with 14, level with Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, but has not played since fracturing a bone in his foot in a 1-0 loss to Aston Villa on Dec. 6.
"Apparently he will be selected, yeah. The first time he's back," Guardiola told reporters. "We have all the squad (fit), we are stronger. He is an important player for us."
Haaland's return could prove pivotal for holders City, who are second in the Premier League standings and trail leaders Liverpool by five points but have a game in hand. City also have Champions League and FA Cup fixtures in February.
The 23-year-old Norwegian has 19 goals in 22 games in all competitions this season.
Four days after Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp shocked the football world with news he would leave the club at the end of the season, Guardiola was asked if he is thinking about leaving City.
"I have everything that a manager could dream (of)," he said. "(The club) have supported me. We've changed a lot of players in the last few years but they've always been supportive.
"I still feel good and, of course, one day it is going to finish, but I don't think about that right now." REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:50:51Z
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LONDON – Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola is thankful for the support he has at the club, saying that he is equipped with “everything a manager could dream of”.
Managing at the top level of football is a stressful and relentless job.
Even high-profile managers like Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp and Barcelona’s Xavi Hernandez have announced that they will step down at the end of the season, citing burnout and poor results respectively.
Guardiola is now in his eighth season at City under Abu Dhabi ownership, and has won 16 titles in that time.
“I have everything that a manager could dream of (at City),” he said as he looked ahead to their English Premier League home clash against Burnley on Jan 31.
“I have everything. The hierarchy they always support me. We have changed a lot of players in seven years, but all of them have been incredibly supportive.
“(It’s a) good environment so I have everything. Still, I feel good and of course one day it is going to finish, but I don’t think about that right now.”
What the Spaniard is thinking about, is how to beat former City captain Vincent Kompany when the Belgian takes Burnley to the Etihad Stadium for their clash.
The two teams met in the opening weekend of the campaign at Turf Moor, where City won 3-0.
Heading into the second half of the season, City are finding their form at the best possible time. Guardiola’s men have won nine and drew one of their last 10 matches in all competitions, having scored 28 goals in total.
The last time they lost was a 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa on Dec 6.
However, City are trailing league leaders Liverpool by five points, while Arsenal and Villa also pose a threat in the title race in which Guardiola is aiming for a sixth title in seven seasons.
City will be the favourites for the clash and they are also confident, as they have won 16 of their previous 17 fixtures with Burnley – including their last 12 in a row with an aggregate score of 43-1.
Guardiola is set to welcome star striker Erling Haaland back to his line-up after his recovery from injury, while defenders Manuel Akanji and John Stones could also return.
As for the away side, the Clarets are fighting relegation, but they have in fact done better in their away matches than at Turf Moor.
On the road they have accumulated eight points, while collecting only four at home – the worst among all teams.
“They’re a great side. They’ve got top players, a top manager,” said Kompany of City.
“The combination of that makes them very difficult to play against.... currently the best team in the world.
“But you can’t start the game defeated... we’re going there with every desire to get the most out of this game.”
In other games on Jan 31, Tottenham Hotspur will host Brentford as they keep up the fight for the top four.
Spurs have gone up and down in manager Ange Postecoglou’s first season in charge but they have played themselves into form, clinching 13 points from their last six fixtures, including four wins.
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/i-have-everything-a-manager-could-dream-of-at-man-city-says-pep-guardiola
| 2024-01-30T14:51:02Z
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LONDON – English Premier League leaders Liverpool are on a mission in this second half of the campaign – to win the league title for manager Jurgen Klopp in his final season in charge.
The Reds beat Norwich City 5-2 in the FA Cup fourth round over the weekend, following Klopp’s bombshell announcement on Jan 26, and will now return to league action when they host Chelsea on Jan 31.
The Premier League is probably what matters most now – although Liverpool still can win the FA Cup, the League Cup final against Chelsea and the Europa League – and Klopp will be hoping to extend their lead at the top of the table.
For now, the German is focusing on the Blues and not the title just yet.
“They play really good stuff, really good team. A team in form, I think. Won majority of games recently,” he said.
“We play them in first matchday (1-1 draw), we weren’t great but they were pretty good. A point was alright. We have to do better but we are different now.
“They had a lot of injuries but now they have a core group together. They have the midfield they want together, the entire back-line other than Reece James. A really good team, even if you can’t see it in the table yet.
“I expect them to make big steps.”
Liverpool are unbeaten in their last 22 Premier League fixtures at Anfield, a run that started way back in October 2022.
But it is not only their home form that has been impressive, as the Reds have shown this season that they can fight back from adversity.
They have won 19 points so far from losing positions, so if things do not go their way against Chelsea, they would likely still battle all the way till the end to get a positive result.
Liverpool will again be without their talisman Mohamed Salah, but fellow forwards Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota have stepped up in his absence and could be key in this match.
Both players were on the scoresheet against Norwich and are expected to continue the momentum.
In the Premier League, Nunez has three goals and an assist in his last three games, while Jota has three goals and three assists in the same run of matches.
The Reds will be missing the injured Joe Matip, Stefan Bajcetic, Thiago Alcantara and Konstantinos Tsimikas, while Wataru Endo is at the Asian Cup with Japan.
As Klopp prepares to wind down his Liverpool tenure, Thai police have warned fans in the country not to fall for online scammers impersonating Bayer Leverkusen coach Xabi Alonso, hotly tipped to replace the German in the summer.
The Central Investigation Bureau told supporters to watch out for a viral message purporting to show the Spaniard’s Instagram account asking for donations of 300 baht (S$11.40) to help pay his air fare.
“I am Xabi Alonso, I will be in charge of Liverpool next season, but I am short of money for my flights to Liverpool,” said the message, written in Thai.
The police, in response, posted on Facebook: “Liverpool fans, calm down. Xabi is not yet the manager, but there is already a scammer (pretending to be Xabi).”
Liverpool are among the best-supported teams in Thailand, with red shirts and club crests adorning everything from people to taxis and shops.
Chelsea, meanwhile, will hope to spoil Klopp’s party but they are still dealing with a long injury list – James, Marc Cucurella, Wesley Fofana, Robert Sanchez and Levi Colwill are all still out.
The Blues have lost just once in their last seven matches in all competitions but their away form is a concern, as they have lost five of their previous six matches on the road.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to face a team that is doing really well,” said manager Mauricio Pochettino.
“Special game for him (Klopp). Until the end... every time they play at Anfield, it’s going to be a party always, to celebrate. But we are thinking to go there and win. Sorry, but we don’t want to be part of the celebration.” AFP
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| 2024-01-30T14:51:12Z
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AL WAKRAH – Uzbekistan will face hosts and holders Qatar in the Asian Cup quarter-finals after highly rated Abbosbek Fayzullaev hit the winner in a 2-1 victory over Thailand on Jan 30.
The Uzbeks have been touted as dark horses for the title and took the lead in the first half with a cool Azizbek Turgunboev finish through the legs of the goalkeeper.
Thailand were the lowest-ranked team left at the tournament but they struck back just before the hour with an even better goal, from distance, by substitute Supachok Sarachat.
But Uzbekistan were the more accomplished team and went ahead again midway through the second half when 20-year-old CSKA Moscow winger Fayzullaev rolled the ball in from outside the box.
This time Thailand had no reply, despite some late pressure.
“I am happy and I am satisfied with how my team played today,” said Uzbekistan coach Srecko Katanec.
“So I congratulated them because we played quite good from my point of view, and we should score one goal or two more in the first half because we created some chances which is very difficult to miss them.
“But I expected Thailand team to be hard to play, but honestly we played a good match and we were the better team. We deserved to go further.
“So we are happy and now we have to recover and look forward to the next match.”
Qatar booked their spot in the last eight on Jan 29 with a 2-1 victory over Palestine, who had reached the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.
Thailand were underdogs but did not concede a goal in three matches as they finished second to Saudi Arabia in their group.
Oston Urunov had three decent chances to breach the Thai defence in the first 25 minutes and then Thai goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai had to stretch to deny Jaloliddin Masharipov.
Thailand’s early enthusiasm evaporated and it looked only a matter of time until the Uzbeks went ahead.
In the 37th minute they did, Turgunboev chesting the ball down in the box and sweeping the ball first time through the legs of Patiwat.
It was his second goal of the tournament and a moment of class.
The Uzbeks racked up 10 shots to Thailand’s one in a one-sided opening period in front of 19,000 at Al Janoub Stadium.
Sensing that something had to change, Thailand’s Japanese coach Masatada Ishii made a double switch and it paid off in spectacular style on 58 minutes.
The newly introduced Supachok exchanged passes with Supachai Chaided before bending the ball wonderfully into the bottom corner from outside the box.
But the two teams were level for just seven minutes.
Fayzullaev turned on the edge of the box and stroked the ball through the legs of a Thai defender and into the bottom corner. It was the youngster’s second goal of the competition and it proved to be the winner.
Defender Elias Dolah had Thailand’s best chance to level for a second time but his header flew just over in stoppage time.
Uzbekistan will now be looking to reach the semi-finals for only the second time when they take on Qatar at Al Bayt Stadium on Feb 3.
In the other last-16 match on Jan 30, Jurgen Klinsmann’s South Korea face a Saudi side coached by another European great in Roberto Mancini.
The result of that clash was not available at press time. AFP, REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:51:23Z
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The African Union (AU) on Tuesday called for dialogue between the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and junta-led countries Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso who have said they will leave the bloc.
The trio's decision to exit ECOWAS, which they announced on Sunday, is a blow to the bloc's regional integration efforts after it suspended them following coups.
The AU had backed ECOWAS' efforts to restore democracy.
"The Chairperson of the African Union Commission H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat learned with deep regret of the announcement of the withdrawal of Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso from ECOWAS," the AU said in a statement.
"(He) calls for combined efforts so that the irreplaceable unity of ECOWAS is preserved and African solidarity strengthened."
He urged regional leaders to intensify dialogue between the ECOWAS leadership and the three countries, and said the AU was available to help.
Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger's foreign ministries formally notified the ECOWAS Commission of their decisions to leave the bloc in written notices dated Jan. 29.
According to the bloc's treaty, member states wishing to withdraw must give a written one-year notice. So the move to quit the 15-member bloc could yet take time to implement, opening a door for negotiations.
The trio's stance towards ECOWAS has highlighted tumult across the region where armies have struggled to contain Islamist militants since seizing power in several countries. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:51:33Z
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BRUSSELS - Talks between European Union countries aimed at agreeing on more aid for Ukraine later this week remain "difficult", a senior EU official said on Jan 30, despite Hungary having signalled its readiness for a compromise.
EU leaders meet on Feb 1 to try agree on extending €50 billion (S$70 billion) in aid to Ukraine through 2027, as well as replenishing a military fund to arm Kyiv as it fights Russia's almost two-year-old full-scale invasion.
Hungary is among the EU's most Russia-friendly countries. It has already once blocked the aid package and has also voiced opposition - along with EU paymaster Germany - to topping up the military fund.
"We are not there yet," the EU official said under condition of anonymity, referring to preparations for the Thursday summit in Brussels of the leaders of the bloc's 27 member states.
As the EU mounts pressure on Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to agree, the official said Budapest's conditions for lifting its veto on the financial assistance to Kyiv were not acceptable to the other EU countries.
The official added that Hungary's EU peers did not want to agree to review any support to Kyiv every year as that would give Mr Orban a veto each time. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:51:43Z
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BRUSSELS - The European Commission on Tuesday rejected a French government view that Brussels had put an end to talks with Mercosur, saying it was still aiming to conclude a free trade agreement with the South American bloc.
With tractors blocking highways and polls pointing to gains by the far right in European Parliament elections in June, French President Emmanuel Macron is under pressure to assuage farmers who are angry over rising costs and cheap food imports.
France has repeatedly expressed reservations about the EU-Mercosur deal and said its farmers have objected to the prospect it could allow in agricultural products, notably beef, that do not meet strict EU standards.
The European Union and the Mercosur bloc of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay agreed on a trade accord text in 2019 after 20 years of on-off negotiations. Talks resumed after the EU sought assurances on climate change and deforestation.
The European Commission, which negotiates trade agreements on behalf of the 27-nation European Union, said talks with Mercosur counterparts had not ended and that there had been no order to EU negotiators to return early from last week's meeting in Brazil.
"The discussions are continuing and the European Union continues to fulfill its objective of achieving an agreement that respects our sustainability goals and respects our sensitivities, particularly in agriculture," a Commission spokesperson said.
Many farmers blame Macron and the European Union, which sets many agricultural rules, for their woes.
A French presidential adviser said on Monday the EU understood it was impossible to reach a deal in current conditions.
"It is our understanding it has instructed its negotiators to put an end to the negotiation session underway in Brazil and in particular cancel the visit of the Commission's vice-president that had been envisaged in view of a conclusion," the adviser added.
The Commission spokesperson said Commission Vice President Valdis Dombrovskis, who oversees trade, was ready to travel to Latin America if a deal was close.
"But on the basis of the last few meetings we have had that does not appear to be the case right now," the spokesperson said.
He added that Macron and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had been in contact, but declined to comment on their talks.
Several other EU members back the deal, which would be the largest trade agreement for the bloc in terms of tariff reduction and part of the EU strategy of trade diversification following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and a desire to reduce its reliance on China.
"Contrary to common French practice, the EU does not in fact operate by presidential decree," said one EU diplomat.
EU governments and the European Parliament need to approve any trade deal the Commission has reached. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:51:54Z
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PARIS - Almost one in three mineral water brands in France undergoes purification treatment supposed to be used only on tap water, media reported on Jan 30, citing a government probe.
The revelations from daily Le Monde and broadcaster Radio France follow Nestle’s admission that it treated water for its major brands, including Perrier and Vittel, with ultraviolet light and active carbon filters.
A July 2022 report by the IGAS authority found that “close to 30 per cent of brands undergo treatment not in line” with French regulation on mineral water, the outlets wrote.
The report “was clear that the 30 per cent figure underestimates the phenomenon”, they added.
French law based on a European Union directive bars the disinfection of mineral water, which is supposed to be of naturally high quality before bottling.
IGAS did not immediately react to AFP’s request for comment, while a government source said the report contained “data covered by business confidentiality”.
“No health risk linked to the quality of bottled water has so far been identified,” the source added.
But “it would not be prudent to conclude that health risks are completely under control, especially microbiological risks”, according to a passage from the IGAS report cited by Radio France.
The government source said the IGAS probe was launched after Nestle told authorities in 2021 it was using treatments that overstepped regulations.
A whistleblower who had worked at French firm Sources Alma, which produces popular national brands including Cristaline, also told anti-fraud investigators about “suspicious practices” in 2020, Le Monde and Radio France reported.
Prosecutors have opened an investigation into Alma, the two media reported, while the government source confirmed to AFP there is a separate investigation into Nestle.
Alma did not immediately respond to AFP’s request for comment. AFP
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| 2024-01-30T14:52:04Z
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MADRID - Spanish farmers' associations said on Tuesday they were planning to take to the streets in February in protest against strict European regulations and lack of government support as unrest continues to spread across Europe.
Protests in France have intensified this week, with farmers using their tractors to block major motorways into Paris as they seek to highlight a range of grievances, including cheap imports and excessive European Union environmental regulation.
In Belgium, farmers plan to block access roads to the Zeebrugge container port in Belgium from Tuesday. In recent weeks, farmers across Europe including in Germany, Poland and Romania have also held demonstrations.
"Mobilisations will take place as soon as possible," Pedro Barato, president of Asaja, a Spanish association representing around 200,000 farmers and cattle breeders, said in a radio interview. "The actions will not be very different from what is happening in other EU countries."
The protests are set to take place in the coming weeks, the organisations said in a joint statement. Asaja members are due to meet on Feb. 1 to make preparations.
Drought in southern Spain has hit farmers, with production of several crops such as rice and olives dropping over the past two years.
The largest farmers' groups in Spain - Asaja, COAG and UPA - also share the same as grievances as their peers in other European countries, claiming environmental regulations imposed by Brussels are undermining the profitability of crops and increasing food prices.
Spanish farmers said they were also struggling to compete with products imported from outside the EU at lower prices.
As the French protests have intensified, some 20,000 Spanish trucks that cross the border every day have struggled to transport fruit, vegetables and other goods. Spanish transport association, Fenadismer, estimates the blockades cause daily losses of 10 million euros ($10.84 million) for Spanish companies.
Among other demands, the Spanish organisations plan to ask Brussels to halt negotiations with the Mercosur trade bloc, as well as trade agreements with Chile, Kenya, Mexico, India and Australia.
"It is time for them (European and national authorities) to take note, rectify and reform their strategies," Asaja said. REUTERS
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LONDON - Ukrainian billionaire Kostyantyn Zhevago has won a bid to throw out a London lawsuit over allegations he embezzled money from the now bankrupt lender Finance & Credit Bank.
Zhevago, who controls London-listed iron pellet producer Ferrexpo, was being sued on behalf of the bank in which he had a 95% indirect shareholding before its 2015 collapse.
WWRT Ltd, a company that claims it was ultimately assigned Finance & Credit Bank's right to sue, brought the case at London's High Court. It accused Zhevago of procuring loans from the bank to companies controlled by him.
Zhevago, who served in Ukraine's parliament from 1998 to 2019, has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing and argued that any case relating to the alleged fraud should not be heard in London.
Judge Richard Jacobs upheld Zhevago's challenge in a written ruling delivered on Friday. Lawyers representing Zhevago and WWRT did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The ruling is a victory for Zhevago, 50, who is facing legal challenges amid Ukraine's efforts to clamp down on corruption despite Russia's full-scale invasion, which is vital to meet the conditions for joining the European Union.
He was arrested at a French ski resort in 2022 at the request of Ukraine. Zhevago has since been released on bail and successfully resisted attempts to extradite him.
Ukrainian prosecutors have also taken action in the Ukrainian courts against Zhevago and frozen shares held by Ferrexpo, in its three Ukrainian subsidiaries.
Ferrexpo is also in a dispute with the Ukrainian government over royalty payments. REUTERS
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| 2024-01-30T14:52:25Z
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DAKAR - A decision by Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger to quit West Africa's economic and political bloc reverses decades of regional integration, leaving millions of people in limbo, and is likely to deepen the three junta-led countries' ties with Russia.
The move to withdraw from the 15-member Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) could yet take time to implement, opening a door for negotiations.
But, if carried through, it is set to disrupt the region's trade and services flows, worth nearly $150 billion a year.
It also raises questions over millions of nationals from the three poor and landlocked nations who settled in neighbouring states as the bloc allows visa-free travel and right to work.
Ivory Coast alone is home to more than 5 million people from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger.
Niger shares 1,500 km of border with Nigeria and 80% of its trade is done with its richer neighbour, said Seidik Abba, president of the Paris-based CIRES think tank.
Ghana, Togo and Benin also have a big diaspora from Niger.
"If they decide to go ahead and leave, it will become a very big problem, economically and politically, and the stakes are the highest for the people from these three countries," he said.
More than a dozen analysts and Africa diplomats consulted by Reuters agreed the trio's stance on ECOWAS underscored tumult across a region where armies have struggled to contain Islamist militants since seizing power in several countries.
Meanwhile, Russia has been extending its influence at the expense of former colonial power France, regional heavyweight Nigeria and the United States.
Earlier this month, Russia and Niger, ruled by a junta since a coup last year, agreed to develop military ties. Russian military personnel flew into Burkina Faso's capital Ouagadougou last week to ensure the safety of the country's military leader. Russia's Wagner mercenary group also has 1,000 fighters in Mali.
The three military-ruled countries jointly announced their departure on Sunday, accusing ECOWAS of abandoning its founding ideals and falling under the influence of foreign powers.
They said the bloc had offered little support against Islamic insurgencies that have killed thousands and displaced over 2 million.
EMPTY THREAT
ECOWAS has responded to a wave of coups in the region since 2020 with sanctions that the juntas have called "illegal and inhumane." The bloc also threatened to use force to restore constitutional rule in Niger, but did not follow through.
On Monday, ECOWAS chair Nigeria said the "unelected" military authorities of the three countries were letting their people down, but added it remained willing to engage with them.
Established in 1975, ECOWAS has sought to promote economic and political cooperation within the fragmented region, home to a mix of former French and British colonies.
Mucahid Durmaz, senior West Africa analyst at risk intelligence company Verisk Maplecroft, said he now expects increased tariffs and new restrictions on the movement of people, goods and money.
The move by the trio is likely the "silliest own goal since the United Kingdom voted for Brexit," said Charlie Robertson, head of macro strategy at London-based investment management company FIM Partners, referring to Britain's departure from the European Union.
"The three countries were already among the poorest in ECOWAS, and indeed the world – and leaving won't help," he said, adding the trio account for just 8% of the bloc's gross domestic product.
Under ECOWAS rules, leaving the bloc takes at least a year, so those living outside their home countries should not face immediate consequences.
But in a worst-case scenario, "we could see one of the major movements of people that we have seen in decades - citizens across the subregion packing their things and heading back home," said Kwesi Aning, a Ghana-based security analyst.
Gilles Yabi, founder of West African think tank WATHI, said the trio had stopped short of announcing their withdrawal from the regional monetary and economic union that uses the CFA franc, something that would have an even bigger impact.
"I think Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso know that it's not easy – it's not possible actually – to withdraw from the monetary union, when you don't have your own system in place, a new currency in place, for example," he said.
'EMBARGO ON OURSELVES'
In Mali's capital, Bamako, tailor Adama Coulibaly welcomed the juntas' decision, saying it was normal for the countries to take matters into their own hands because ECOWAS had failed.
But health worker Nagnouma Keita was apprehensive. "Our three states cannot survive on their own, especially since they have no access to the sea. I believe that, in reality, we are imposing an embargo on ourselves," she said.
Some analysts said ECOWAS had been too swift to punish the juntas, having previously failed to call out civilian leaders, in Ivory Coast and Guinea among others, who extended their rule through problematic elections or referendums.
Threatening military intervention against the juntas but failing to act also reduced the bloc's credibility, they said.
For years, security experts have said countries in the region must work closer – sharing more intelligence – to tackle the spreading insurgencies that are feeding off poverty, neglect and abuse as much as ideology.
Instead, the latest crisis at ECOWAS highlights the growing rift between the Western-allied elected governments and military-run countries increasingly relying on Russia and China.
"The departure from ECOWAS will have catastrophic consequences for the ability to respond to the many security challenges facing this region," said Abba. REUTERS
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DOHA/GAZA -Israel on Tuesday handed over to Palestinian authorities the bodies of dozens of Palestinians killed by Israeli forces in the Gaza war in recent weeks, health officials in the Palestinian enclave said.
The bodies, which had been held in Israel, were handed over through the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing and will be buried in mass graves in the city of Rafah in the south of the Gaza Strip, the officials said.
The health ministry in Gaza did not immediately say how many bodies had been handed over, but residents put the number at around 100.
Israel, which began a military offensive in Gaza after Palestinian militants from the coastal enclave went on the rampage in southern Israel on Oct. 7 last year, did not immediately comment on the handover.
The bodies arrived at an open space in Rafah where workers and medics waited next to a long line of newly dug graves. The bodies, wrapped in blue plastic bags, were transferred to the location in a cooler truck.
Palestinian health officials said the bodies were of Palestinians who had been killed by Israeli forces during their offensive and whose corpses had been dug up and taken to Israel before Tuesday's transfer. Israel did not immediately comment on this assertion. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/israel-hands-over-bodies-of-palestinians-killed-in-gaza-for-burial
| 2024-01-30T14:52:46Z
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DOHA – Hamas has said it is studying a new proposal to pause the fighting in the Gaza Strip, hours after Israeli commandos killed three Palestinian militants in a raid on a hospital in the occupied West Bank.
The raid underscored the risk of the war in Gaza spreading to other fronts, as Israel fights new battles with Hamas.
Clashes in northern Gaza forced more Palestinian residents to flee to safer areas, even as parts of the enclave’s south were hit by Israeli air strikes.
Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh said the group received a ceasefire proposal put forward after talks in Paris. He said he would study the plan and visit Cairo for discussions on it.
The priority for the Palestinian militant group is to end the Israeli offensive and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, he said.
Mr Haniyeh gave no details of the ceasefire proposal, but it followed talks in Paris involving US Central Intelligence Agency director William Burns, Qatar’s prime minister, the chief of Israel’s Mossad intelligence service and the head of Egyptian intelligence.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Jan 30 that Israel would not withdraw forces from Gaza or free thousands of Palestinian security prisoners, pushing back against media reports on some conditions of a possible truce deal with Hamas.
In remarks aired by Israeli TV, Mr Netanyahu added: “We will not end this war short of achieving all of its objectives. That means eliminating Hamas, returning all of our hostages and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.”
While the West Bank – an area that Palestinians envisage as part of a hoped-for independent state – had seen increased violence even before the outbreak of the Gaza war in October, the hospital raid could fuel a more intense phase of unrest.
CCTV footage appeared to show about a dozen troops, including three in women’s garb and two dressed as Palestinian medical staff, pacing through a corridor in Ibn Sina hospital in the city of Jenin with rifles.
Hamas said one of its fighters was killed. The allied faction Islamic Jihad said the other two killed – brothers – belonged to it. Ibn Sina said one was receiving treatment for an injury that paralysed his legs.
The Israeli military said one of those killed had a pistol, and that the incident showed militants were using civilian areas and hospitals as shelters and “human shields”. Hamas has previously denied such allegations.
Palestinian sources said the three were not engaged in any fighting. They said one, Mr Basel Al-Ghazzawi, was wheelchair-bound after being wounded in his back, and was in the hospital for treatment. His brother Mohammad was staying there to help him, and the third man was a friend, the sources said.
The Israeli undercover squad broke into the hospital, headed to the third floor and killed them using silenced pistols, hospital sources said.
Palestinian Health Minister Mai Alkaila called the incident a war crime and urged the United Nations and international rights groups to put an end to such actions.
The Israeli military identified one of the slain men as Mr Mohammed Jalamneh, 27, from Jenin, who it said had contacts with Hamas headquarters abroad and was planning an attack inspired by the Hamas rampage in southern Israel on Oct 7.
Gaza death toll rises
Israel unleashed its assault on Gaza in response to that attack in which 1,200 Israelis were killed and 253 taken hostage. More than 100 hostages remain captive in Gaza.
Since then, 26,751 Palestinians have been killed and 65,636 wounded by Israeli actions in Gaza. Some 114 Palestinians were killed and 249 injured in the past 24 hours, the health ministry in Gaza said.
Israel says its forces have killed around 9,000 Palestinian combatants in Gaza, and that 221 of its soldiers have died in the fighting.
The war has created a humanitarian crisis, with wide areas of Gaza flattened, hundreds of thousands of people left destitute, and supplies of food, water and medicines almost exhausted.
The World Health Organisation said the population of Gaza was on the verge of famine.
“It’s getting worse by the day,” WHO spokeswoman Christian Lindmeier said at a news briefing in Geneva.
She said one convoy tried to reach the Nasser Hospital on Jan 30, but people helped themselves to supplies before they could be distributed.
Tanks in action
Israel mounted a new push in northern Gaza after earlier reporting successes against Palestinian militants there. The militants’ presence in the area suggests Israel’s campaign to eradicate Hamas is not going to plan.
Hamas appears to have been able to regroup in Gaza City as the war drags on and international concern over the plight of civilians mounts.
Much of the action on Jan 30 in Gaza was focused on the Beach refugee camp and near the Al Shifa hospital, residents said. Israeli tanks broke into one shelter site and soldiers rounded up dozens of men.
Residents and health officials also said an Israeli tank opened fire against dozens of Palestinians near Al-Kuwaiti Square on the southern edge of Gaza City where aid trucks unload their shipments, killing two people and wounding others.
The fighting caused more people to flee within Gaza City and to the south towards Deir Al-Balah in the centre. Heavy bombing also hit western and southern suburbs of Gaza.
In the south, Israeli forces kept up pressure on Khan Younis, maintaining their encirclement of the city’s two main hospitals.
Palestinian health officials said at least 10 Palestinians were killed in two separate Israeli air strikes in Khan Younis and in Deir Al-Balah.
The Israeli military said in a summary of overnight operations that action continued in the western part of Khan Younis, where militants were killed and many arms seized.
In northern and central Gaza, soldiers killed “numerous” militants, including a rocket-propelled grenade squad. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/hamas-studies-ceasefire-proposal-as-israeli-troops-raid-hospital-in-west-bank
| 2024-01-30T14:52:56Z
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The U.S. government in recent months launched an operation to fight a pervasive Chinese hacking operation that successfully compromised thousands of internet-connected devices, according to two Western security officials and one person familiar with the matter.
The Justice Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation sought and received legal authorization to remotely disable aspects of the Chinese hacking campaign, the sources told Reuters.
The Biden administration has increasingly focused on hacking, not only for fear nation states may try to disrupt the U.S. election in November, but because ransomware wreaked havoc on Corporate America in 2023.
The hacking group at the center of recent activity, Volt Typhoon, has especially alarmed intelligence officials who say it is part of a larger effort to compromise Western critical infrastructure, including naval ports, internet service providers and utilities.
While the Volt Typhoon campaign initially came to light in May 2023, the hackers expanded the scope of their operations late last year and changed some of their techniques, according to three people familiar with the matter.
The widespread nature of the hacks led to a series of meetings between the White House and private technology industry, including several telecommunications and cloud commuting companies, where the U.S. government asked for assistance in tracking the activity.
Such breaches could enable China, national security experts said, to remotely disrupt important facilities in the Indo-Pacific region that in some form support or service U.S. military operations. Sources said U.S. officials are concerned the hackers were working to hurt U.S. readiness in case of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has increased its military activities near the island in recent years in response to what Beijing calls "collusion" between Taiwan and the United States.
The Justice Department and FBI declined to comment. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
When Western nations first warned about Volt Typhoon in May, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the hacking allegations were a "collective disinformation campaign" from the Five Eyes countries, a reference to the intelligence sharing grouping of countries made up of the United States, Canada, New Zealand, Australia and the UK.
Volt Typhoon has functioned by taking control of swaths of vulnerable digital devices around the world - such as routers, modems, and even internet-connected security cameras - to hide later, downstream attacks into more sensitive targets, security researchers told Reuters. This constellation of remotely controlled systems, known as a botnet, are of primary concern to security officials because they limit the visibility of cyber defenders that monitor for foreign footprints in their computer networks.
"How it works is the Chinese are taking control of a camera or modem that is positioned geographically right next to a port or ISP (internet service provider) and then using that destination to route their intrusions into the real target," said a former official familiar with the matter. "To the IT team at the downstream target it just looks like a normal, native user that's sitting nearby."
The use of so-called botnets by both government and criminal hackers to launder their cyber operations is not new. The approach is often used when an attacker wants to quickly target numerous victims simultaneously or seeks to hide their origins. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/us-disabled-chinese-hacking-network-targeting-critical-infrastructure-sources-say
| 2024-01-30T14:53:06Z
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Today hosts Savannah Guthrie and Hoda Kotb gave a touching send-off to their colleague, NBC reporter Kristen Dahlgren, who is leaving the network to launch a nonprofit cancer research organization, The Pink Eraser Project.
Kristen, who is a breast cancer survivor, made the announcement during Tuesday's show, where she reported on breast cancer vaccines, which researchers believe could be essential to preventing the disease and its reoccurrence.
"If I've learned in 3 years as a journalist, one person really can change the world but this will go much quicker if everyone joins us," said Kristen. "Let's face it, with one in eight American women diagnosed in our lifetime, we all know someone with breast cancer and that's why I'm starting The Pink Eraser Project with an amazing group of scientists, doctors, and survivors. I'm going to be dedicating my life to this, it means that I am leaving what has been a dream job but it's just too important not to work on this."
Kristen was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2019 before being declared cancer-free the following April after eight rounds of chemotherapy and 25 rounds of radiation.
The Pink Eraser Project will connect researchers at major centers across the US, with a goal of building a pool of breast cancer survivors to help spread the word about trials. The Project will also work with other institutions researching breast cancer vaccines, and partner with other cancer organizations.
Reacting to Kristen's news, Savannah said: "Kristen we couldn't let you go if it wasn't for this mission and purpose that matters so much and is personal to you."
Kristen then revealed that her father had been recently diagnosed with cancer. "So you can be sure I'm not stopping with breast cancer. This is something we can do for everyone," she said.
Reflecting on Kristen's longstanding career and achievements at NBC, Hoda chimed in: "Can we just mark a moment right here with you on this couch? You have been at NBC for nearly 30 years," prompting applause from the studio.
"This is your very last report. We want to say thank you for all of your reporting, all your dedication, you always brought your heart and soul to every story," said Hoda. "We keep talking about repotting, you're pulling yourself up by the roots and you're planting yourself in the place you are meant to be. You're going to change the world, girl."
Praising her colleague, Savannah added: "It's your last report for NBC, it is not your last appearance for an amazing colleague and friend and supporter to all of us and we love you, Kristen."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/film/512344/today-savannah-guthrie-praises-amazing-colleague-and-friend-amid-co-star-departure/
| 2024-01-30T15:25:43Z
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Pamela Anderson is embracing her natural beauty and has ditched make-up in favor of a 'less is more' look.
Since she first stepped out bare-faced at Paris Fashion Week in 2023, Pamela has confidently continued to "challenge beauty" by opting for a sans make-up appearance.
But not only is her approach good for her mind, it's good for her skin health too. Aesthetics expert, Dr Lubna Khan-Salim opened up to HELLO! to give her opinion on why the Baywatch alum's toned down regime can make you look years younger.
'There is beauty in self acceptance, imperfection and love'
Pamela has spent years under the glare of the spotlight but she doesn't feel the need to hide beneath layers of foundation and lipstick anymore.
"I am much more comfortable in my own skin, but I also am in an industry that really focuses on beauty," she told Today. "And I thought, 'I'm going to challenge beauty.'"
She continued: "I think challenging ourselves is what keeps us young and beautiful. And I think, really genuinely, beauty does come from within and you don't have to play the game."
Skincare over 50
It's harder to care for your skin as you age. But rather than covering it up, Dr Khan-Salim says Pamela's way could work wonders.
"As an aesthetics doctor I see lots of clients who are in their 50s and experiencing a range of skin concerns from acne and rosacea, to dry skin and hyperpigmentation," she said. "One of the first things that I advise is for them to strip back their make-up and skincare regime, like an elimination diet, in order to let their skin re-balance.
Ditch the fillers
"It’s fantastic that high-profile people such as Pamela Anderson are leading this movement away from not only the over-use of makeup and skincare products," she told HELLO!.
"But also the overuse of dermal fillers which have resulted in so many faces that are distorted out of natural proportion, going against what nature truly intended."
The benefits of going make-up free
Not only is going make-up free going to benefit your bank balance, your complexion is going to thank you too. "Going make-up free, or indeed taking a less-is-more approach to make-up poses a huge number of benefits to skin health," explained the UK-based doctor. "Make-up can create a barrier which increases the skin's oil production and clogs pores, which can result in outbreaks and acne.
"Also as we age it's a good idea to adapt our makeup to our changing skin as make-up can gather in lines and wrinkles on the face making them appear more pronounced. "Often after cleansing a patient's skin in the clinic I can see how much more fresh they appear and younger.
"We can all get stuck in a rut with makeup but there are some fantastic brands such as Jones Road and Trinny London that can freshen up your makeup routine."
The benefits of stripping back your skincare regime
More doesn't necessarily mean better. "Many people have got into the habit of a daily skincare regime which involves a huge amount of products, many of which are unnecessary or working against each other," Dr Lubna Khan-Salim continued. "In order to achieve a successful skincare routine it's first necessary to establish what your main goal is, this will be different for everyone. For some people it's to reduce pigmentation for example, for others it's to address Rosacea.
"Then, you can start to look at which active ingredients are most suitable for achieving this as well as lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep and stress reduction which also have a huge impact on skin health.
"It's always advisable to speak to an expert in order to establish an individualised treatment plan for your skin."
The secrets to Pamela Anderson's glowing skin
Pamela's new wellness regime doesn't mean she does nothing to care for her skin. "A targeted skincare regime and sun protection will be the key to Pamela Anderson’s naturally glowing skin," said the doctor. "From a clinical perspective, in order to achieve this healthy baseline Regenerative medicine treatments are the key.
"As we age our natural collagen levels decline, and dramatically during menopause. Exosome Therapy is extremely popular for women of this age because it helps to address this collagen decline. It stimulates skin on a cellular level, reawakening inactive skin cells and aiding skin repair and rejuvenation."
In conclusion: "Taking a more natural approach to skin and looking to bio-regenerative treatments and senolytic skincare products which work on a cellular level, help to create optimum skin health. "When skin is healthy then it glows radiantly - as Pamela so wonderfully proves."
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/512343/pamela-anderson-less-is-more-approach-regime-at-56-make-you-look-years-younger-expert-how-photos/
| 2024-01-30T15:25:50Z
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Celine Dion is staging a personal comeback, but she's not returning to the stage just yet. Instead, her journey over the past year will be captured in a new documentary.
Amazon Prime Video announced that they had acquired the rights to produce a new feature-length documentary titled I Am: Celine Dion, directed by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Irene Taylor.
The project will provide a raw and personal glimpse inside the 55-year-old Canadian songstress' battle with Stiff Person Syndrome, which she announced in a heartbreaking video in December 2022. Watch it below…
The documentary will look at the singer's past and present as she continues to battle the rare disease, while also providing a peek at her life at home recovering, building back her strength, and continuing to work on music.
It also promises a dive into her couture touring wardrobe, time in the recording studio, and has been deemed an "emotional, energetic, and poetic love letter to music" in an official statement.
While a date for its release has not yet been revealed, Celine shared a personal message with regards to bringing her story to the screen once again. "This last couple of years has been such a challenge for me, the journey from discovering my condition to learning how to live with and manage it, but not to let it define me.
"As the road to resuming my performing career continues, I have [realized] how much I have missed it, of being able to see my fans. During this absence, I decided I wanted to document this part of my life, to try to raise awareness of this little-known condition, to help others who share this diagnosis."
MORE: Celine Dion's 13 siblings: all you need to know about the singer's family
Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, also shared a statement, which reads: "Celine Dion is a global megastar with a career defined not only by her extraordinary work ethic and passion, but by her dedication to her fans.
"This documentary is a raw, intimate portrayal of a pivotal time in her personal life and career, pulling back the curtain on her journey as she overcomes an unthinkable diagnosis. It's an [honor] to be trusted with her story, and we can't wait to share it with Prime Video audiences around the world."
MORE: All the tender moments between Celine Dion and the late René Angélil during 21-year marriage
It was in late 2021 that the "Power of Love" singer first canceled her Las Vegas residency due to what was described as "severe and persistent muscle spasms."
In 2022, all her upcoming US and Canadian tour dates were also canceled, and in December of that year, she announced that all her tour dates were indefinitely postponed due to her disease.
SEE: Celine Dion's rarely seen sons: 12 photos of her brood supporting her through her diagnosis
Her older sister Claudette has shared frequent updates about her sister's health, stating that she is slowly but surely trying to build back her strength, although due to how little is known about the disease, it remains uncertain when she'll return to the big stage.
Speaking to Canadian site 7 jours, Claudette recently said: "Some people have lost hope because it's an illness that isn't well known. If only you knew the number of phone calls the Foundation [Fondation Maman Dion, which helps underprivileged children] gets about Celine! People tell us they love her and they're praying for her. She gets so many messages, presents and blessed crucifixes."
Get the lowdown on the biggest, hottest celebrity news, features, and profiles coming out of the U.S. Sign up to our HELLO! Hollywood newsletter and get them delivered straight to your inbox.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/health-and-fitness/512349/celine-dion-rare-glimpse-inside-health-battle-life-away-from-stage-comeback-documentary/
| 2024-01-30T15:25:56Z
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Gwen Stefani has recalled a "weird" conversation she had with her youngest son, Apollo, after it was revealed, she will reunite with her ex-boyfriend, Tony Kanal, at Coachella 2024.
The Hey Baby singer admitted that her nine-year-old was intrigued to find out what his mom's ex looked like after it was announced Gwen would reunite with her No Doubt bandmates for their first performance in nine years in April.
"I had to literally lay in bed with Apollo and he’s like, 'But mom, what is Coachella? Everyone's saying it. What is this? It sounds like it’s a big deal,'" the 54-year-old People.
"So, we had to watch the Don't Speak video, and he's like, 'But wait, which one was your boyfriend?'" she added, referring to bassist Tony, whom Gwen dated for several years.
"It was so weird and so funny," she recalled. "I literally had to tell him each band member."
Gwen and Tony began dating when they were teenagers and stayed together for several years but when they split, he admitted having to continue working together was "brutal".
"We were on tour for the [album] Tragic Kingdom for 28 months. We were going through a breakup, and in every interview, we were talking about it," he previously said.
"So, we were opening this wound on an hourly basis. It was so brutal, but I don't know how we made it through," he added.
Despite the uncomfortable situation, Gwen and Tony managed to remain friends. She ultimately went on to marry Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale and have three children with him before they split. Gwen is now married to Blake Shelton.
Tony, meanwhile, married American home designer, Erin Lokitz, in 2014, and they went on to welcome two daughters.
Apollo's interest in his mom's musical history, made Gwen realize just how much time has passed since she was last with No Doubt, which also includes guitarist Tom Dumont and drummer Adrian Young.
"That's how much time's gone by because [Apollo]'s going to be 10! It's just another miracle and a blessing. And it was surreal for me," she noted. "I feel like we're in the future and lightning just struck and [No Doubt] is like, 'Here we are!'"
Speaking about what fans can expect from their upcoming performance, Gwen teased: "It's just going to be cool. It's just going to be: get up there and do what we always do, which is play our music and try to connect and be so grateful that we got this amazing career that we never expected to have."
"You've got to remember; we were in No Doubt for nine years before Just a Girl got on the radio. We weren't doing it to make it. And so now to be here in 2024 and have that excitement of the announcement? It's beyond."
No Doubt's reunion was announced earlier this month when Gwen teased the news by first sharing a video of a Zoom call with her bandmates after texting them to say she missed them.
She then shared a poster of the line-up for April's festival, with No Doubt featured prominently on the bill alongside headliners Lana Del Dey, Tyler, The Creator, and Doja Cat.
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/512346/gwen-stefani-awkward-moment-son-apollo-ex-boyfriend-no-doubt-tony-kanal/
| 2024-01-30T15:26:02Z
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The Duchess of York is continuing to work as she after being diagnosed with malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer, it has been revealed.
Sarah, 64, received a second "distressing" diagnosis two days into the new year after spending much of last year recovering from breast cancer.
She shared her news publicly after spending a few weeks recuperating at the exclusive Mayrlife clinic in Austria, which is her "haven", according to friends. Now, back in Windsor, surrounded by her beloved family, Sarah is determined this latest setback will not slow her down.
As her daughters Princesses Beatrice, 35, and Eugenie, 34, rally round, allowing her to spend plenty of time with her grandchildren, Sarah exclusively tells HELLO!: "They support me through thick and thin, not least my recent illness. We call each other 'The Tripod' because we prop each other up, come what may."
A friend also tells HELLO!: "She is one of the most resilient people I have ever known. She just gets on with things and that’s how she's approaching this whole situation.
"A second diagnosis is a lot to deal with for anyone, but she won't let it stop her writing or her charity work or anything that she wants to do. She's home and the girls and Andrew [Sarah's ex-husband the Duke of York] are being amazing. She's with the grandchildren.
"She's been overwhelmed with how lovely everyone has been. It has really buoyed her up."
Author Sarah, is also working on her third novel, following on from the success of Her Heart for a Compass and A Most Intriguing Lady.
"Writing is her escape," the friend tells us. "She's working hard and hasn't stopped."
For the full story see this week's Hello! Magazine.
LISTEN: King Charles 'loves' seeing his grandchildren Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/royalty/512272/sarah-ferguson-continuing-work-amid-second-cancer-diagnosis/
| 2024-01-30T15:26:08Z
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When you work at HELLO! there are certain royal outfits that just live in your mind rent-free, and for me, one of those looks is Princess Kate's bubblegum pink coat she wore back in 2021. It was Kate's first appearance after the infamous Oprah interview, and she stepped out in the pink Max & Co ‘Runaway Classic’ coat for a visit to School21 following its re-opening after the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions in east London.
We all gasped in delight as we watched Kate greet royal well wishers in her pink mid-length coat which she teamed with a pink top and a pair of black trousers. I remember the high street instantly followed suit and soon after this appearance we started to see bubblegum pink coats everywhere.
We weren't complaining, and we're still not, because now M&S has dropped a £49.50 pink coat (or $86.99 if you're reading this in the US) that is so similar, with its big pockets, and colour pop pink, I had to run to my local M&S to take a look for myself.
I found it really easily - with a colour that bright, it's really hard to miss. I have to talk about the colour first. It's stated as a medium pink but this isn't a Barbie pink shade or even bubblegum pink like Kate's, it's almost neon and it's so fantastic in real life, you will swoon when you see it. In fact, it's one of those colours that you know will bring compliments from strangers on the street. I adore the colour but I realise it might be too bright for some.
The single breasted coat is a relaxed fit, I did size up when I tried it on as I wanted it to be a bit slouchy but my usual size also fitted me. I don't think there's all that much difference in sizes. Some of the comments online say the arms are too long, but I didn't notice that as an issue for me. I'm only 5 ft 4, and I liked the length on me.
I need to flag something important though - this coat does not have lining. This coat isn't to be purchased if you're wanting a new warm coat that will make you feel toasty and warm. This is a fashion coat, and could well be one that you wear indoors as well. It'll be great for a wedding guest dress as you can just throw it on and you're not restricted with the lining.
I don't actually mind that this coat is lightweight because I get too hot in big bulky coats and as we move into spring this will be worn on repeat, and while it's still really cold I'll be sure to throw on a big chunky scarf as well.
One review on the Marks & Spencer site sums it up pretty well, saying: "Lovely casual coat…comes up quite large and not suitable for very cold weather, but fab for a dry slightly nip in the air kind of weather."
That's exactly what it is - a nip in the air kind of coat. I love that.
My favourite thing about this coat (well, apart from the colour!) has to be the two side pockets - they're so in-line with how Kate's coat looked, and what made me rush to the shop to try it on, and practically speaking, I tend to carry around a lot of rubbish with me and these will keep my essentials close at hand.
The price tag is super affordable for a coat from M&S but it's pretty obvious when you know it's unlined, and it's not made with any lavish wool material, it's made with recycled polyester. I'm not opposed to it, but it's important to tell you this as you're not getting a warm winter coat for £49.50.
I tried this on with my straight-leg jeans and a tee but I cannot wait to wear it with my shirt dresses or with my wide-leg trousers for work. M&S also stocked it in an oatmeal shade - which is dreamy and very Cameron-Diaz-in-The-Holiday but alas, it's sold out at the time of going to press.
I predict the pink one will sell out, too. Although I was only trying this on for work research purposes, I went straight to checkout and bought it. The colour sparked a lot of joy for me, and I can see it working really well in my wardrobe. I'm blonde as well and it made my hair colour pop and worked with my skin tone. I actually think this will suit everyone, but you've got to be prepared for the 'ooh, I love your coat' compliments because this isn't just your average pink coat, it's an M&S neon pink coat.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/shopping/512347/marks-and-spencer-coat-like-kate-middleton/
| 2024-01-30T15:26:14Z
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Faltah is your secret weapon in interview preparation. This new technology engages with candidates, offering constructive feedback and tracking their progress. With a track record of assisting over 2,000 individuals in securing better job opportunities.
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https://www.producthunt.com/posts/faltah-ai-interview-simulator
| 2024-01-30T15:43:56Z
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https://www.producthunt.com/posts/omnipilot
| 2024-01-30T15:44:02Z
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KARACHI, Pakistan - Former Pakistani Prime Minister and cricket superstar Imran Khan received a 10-year jail sentence on Tuesday for leaking state secrets in the harshest punishment yet of multiple cases he faces.
In prison since August, the popular 71-year-old Khan denies wrongdoing and accuses the military of persecution. Following are comments from analysts about what this means for Khan ahead of Pakistan's parliamentary election on Feb. 8.
MADIHA AFZAL, ANALYST & BROOKINGS SCHOLAR
"It was apparent that the state was using the cipher case to sideline Khan completely. Khan’s (predictable) sentence is part of the (military) establishment’s usual playbook before elections.
"The irregularities of the trial have now cast an even greater shadow on polls that had already lost their credibility given the extent of pre-poll manipulation that’s taken place."
MICHAEL KUGELMAN, SENIOR ASSOCIATE FOR SOUTH ASIA AT THE WOODROW WILSON INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR SCHOLARS
"In terms of Khan’s electoral prospects, the impact of the verdict is purely symbolic. Khan had already received a separate prison sentence that prevents him from participating in polls.
"But the verdict also delivers a sharper blow to his broader politics. Khan’s populism has long revolved around fighting corruption and railing against what he views as U.S. policy and pressure that hurt Pakistan’s interests.
"And yet he’s now been jailed for both corruption and for exposing what he describes, albeit wrongly, as plans for a U.S. plot against him.
"This may further boost his popularity. But it also means his politics have been checkmated in a big way by the very state that he has long criticised and confronted."
MAZHAR ABBAS, PAKISTANI JOURNALIST AND ANALYST
"His supporters may come out in large numbers to cast votes... The decision coming out just before elections will not only help him politically but it wall also raise questions about the elections' credibility."
MOSHARRAF ZAIDI, PAKISTANI WRITER, ANALYST AND FORMER POLICY ADVISOR TO THE MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
"Imran Khan’s jail sentence is another indication of the system-wide barrier to his participation in the political process. It will validate his supporters’ belief that the system is rigged to deny him and his party the path back to the prime minister’s office.
"Regardless of the way it is received, the judgment will not be able to withstand the scrutiny of an appeal because of a range of procedural issues.
"Lost in this fog of partisanship will be the more serious question of whether leaders of a country should be bound by constraints like the Secrets Act, or whether the virtue of popularity insulates them from such restrictions. As evident in the case of Donald Trump and now Khan, in the age of populism these kinds of cases will only grow in quantum."
ZAIGHAM KHAN, POLITICAL ANALYST
"The situation is likely to have a disheartening impact on the voters and supporters of PTI, conveying the notion that their leader might not be released in the near future.
"Given the party's strong dependence on Imran Khan's charisma and his ability to mobilize support, this could cast uncertainty on the party's future prospects." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/reaction-to-pakistan-ex-pm-imran-khans-10-year-jail-term
| 2024-01-30T16:21:43Z
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SINGAPORE - Frasers Logistics & Commercial Trust (FLCT) leased 128,000 sq m of space across its portfolio in the first quarter ended Dec 31, with a portfolio occupancy rate of 95.8 per cent.
The leased space includes the 62,000 sq m lease at the newly completed Ellesmere Port in North West England in the United Kingdom, FLCT said in a business update on Jan 30.
For the first quarter, FLCT recorded positive rental reversions of 11.6 per cent on an incoming versus outgoing basis, and 18.2 per cent on an average versus average basis. The “positive leasing momentum” has reduced FY2024 expiries from 8.7 per cent as at Sept 30, 2023, to 7 per cent as at Dec 31, it added.
FLCT has 100 logistics and industrial properties – which are fully occupied as at Dec 31, 2023 – and eight commercial properties with an 89.4 per cent occupancy rate. Its recent projects include the Maastricht Logistics Development in the Netherlands, where construction commenced in December 2023 and is targeted to finish in H1 FY2025.
Demand is also bolstered by near-shoring and reshoring activities, as global supply chains are “reconfigured to prioritise resilience over cost”, it added.
That said, business uncertainties include a weak global economic outlook, volatility in the financial markets and geopolitical tensions.
FLCT ended Jan 30 at $1.08, up by $0.01 or 0.9 per cent.
In terms of capital management, FLCT said that facilities are already in place or available for more than half of the debt maturing in FY2024. It has aggregate leverage of 30.7 per cent, with an interest coverage ratio of 6.2 times.
Looking ahead, FLCT sees growing demand for logistics facilities. “Global e-commerce penetration is forecast to grow in the next three years, driving demand for quality warehousing,” it said in the business update. THE BUSINESS TIMES
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/frasers-logistics-commercial-trust-leases-128000-sq-m-in-q1-posts-958-occupancy-rate
| 2024-01-30T16:21:44Z
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BENGALURU - United Parcel Service said on Jan 30 it would cut 12,000 jobs and explore strategic options for Coyote, its truckload freight brokerage business, after the company forecast full-year 2024 revenue below estimates.
The company’s shares recovered some lost ground and were last down 5.2 per cent in premarket trading.
“The small package market in the US, excluding Amazon, is expected to grow by less than 1 per cent,” CEO Carol Tome said in a post-earnings call with analysts.
Reuters reported in October that US retailers and other delivery customers were winning discounts from UPS and rival FedEx as they seek to fill trucks amid shrinking demand.
UPS, seen as a bellwether for the US economy, expects full-year 2024 revenue in the range of US$92 billion (S$123.24 billion) to US$94.5 billion, below analysts’ estimates of US$95.57 billion, according to LSEG data.
Meanwhile, customers shifting to less lucrative ground-based delivery from air-based services is also piling pressure on both UPS and FedEx.
For the fourth quarter, UPS reported a 6.9 per cent decline in revenue from its international segment due to volume softness in Europe and 7.3 per cent decline from its domestic segment.
The two segments accounted for about 86 per cent of the company’s revenue in 2023, and have declined for the last four and five quarters, respectively.
The company reported quarterly revenue of US$24.9 billion, down from US$27 billion a year earlier and below analysts’ estimates of US$25.43 billion.
Labour contract-related costs in the second half of 2023 were expected to be about US$500 million more than the company’s estimates, chief financial officer Brian Newman had previously said.
Adjusted profit fell to US$2.47 per share from US$3.62 a year earlier, but came in slightly above analysts’ estimates of $2.46 per share. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/business/companies-markets/ups-to-cut-12000-jobs-as-annual-revenue-forecast-disappoints-on-weak-ecommerce-demand
| 2024-01-30T16:21:55Z
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Chelsea expect a sentimental atmosphere when they face Liverpool at Anfield but will be focused on claiming a vital win, manager Mauricio Pochettino said following Juergen Klopp's announcement that he will depart Merseyside at the end of the season.
Chelsea will hope to extend their Premier League winning streak to four games on Wednesday as league action resumes following the FA Cup break, during which time Klopp announced he would leave Liverpool following nine years in charge.
"It's a special game for him. Until the end, it's going to be special always," Pochettino told a press conference on Tuesday.
"Every time they play at Anfield, it's going to be a party always, to celebrate, and to give him all the love the fans feel for him, and I think it's deserved.
"But we need to go there and win the game. Sorry, but we don't want to be involved or be part of the celebration. We want to perform well and win the game."
The Argentine, however, hoped that the German's break from coaching would not be long.
"He is a coach, a person I am going to miss. I love to watch him on the touchline and the team he manages," Pochettino said.
"I hope he's only away for months, maybe one year, then he comes back."
The two sides will meet again on Feb. 25 in the final of the League Cup at Wembley.
Chelsea defender Malo Gusto and midfielder Christopher Nkunku are likely to make their return to the squad on Wednesday, with the latter back in training following a hip issue he had suffered at the beginning of the month.
"I think it's good news that Malo Gusto and Christoph can be in the squad for tomorrow. Travel with us, with the team," Pochettino said.
"We will wait for the last moment, but at the moment, yes, it's good news to have two players recovered."
The 51-year-old added that striker Nicolas Jackson could also be ready and involved in the game while centre back Trevoh Chalobah is approaching the end of his recovery after being out with thigh problems since the beginning of the season.
England defender Levi Colwill, meanwhile, will be sidelined with a minor tendon injury.
"It's not a big issue but he is going to be out for tomorrow," Pochettino said.
Despite not having a full squad available, the manager was not expecting much activity in the transfer market as deadline day approaches.
"I am not excited for Thursday. Not too many things are going to happen. We are quiet, the market is quiet," he said.
"At the moment, we are all relaxed about the whole situation of the squad." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/chelsea-focused-on-three-points-not-klopps-farewell-party-at-anfield-says-pochettino
| 2024-01-30T16:22:05Z
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LIVERPOOL - League leaders Liverpool will not hurry injured talisman Mohamed Salah back from a muscle injury, manager Juergen Klopp said ahead of the team's Premier League ties against Chelsea at Anfield on Wednesday and away at Arsenal on Sunday.
"There was no pressure on him other than wanting to get fit as quickly as possible anyway. But we don't rush," Klopp told reporters on Tuesday.
"If you could rush the healing process then Thiago wouldn't have been out for 10 months. You do what you can do and, whilst that happens, we have to wait," Klopp added. "Mo's not ready for this game or the next. He's injured and a muscle injury takes time."
Salah, the league's joint top scorer this season with Manchester City's Erling Haaland on 14 goals each, suffered a hamstring injury in Egypt's 2-2 draw with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations on Jan. 18 and returned to Merseyside for treatment.
"It could have been a lot worse, but he's not available and he's having rehabilitation," Klopp said.
Liverpool are on 48 points from 21 games, five points clear of City but having played one more game than the champions.
Chelsea are ninth on 31 points and have won four of their last five league matches.
The 56-year-old Klopp announced on Friday that he would leave Liverpool at the season's end. He suggested on Tuesday that reporters had made too much of defender Virgil van Dijk's comment that he was unsure about his own future after the German manager's departure.
"It's completely normal," said Klopp. "It's clear the outside world will not give you a second to process.
"A week ago no-one knew about my situation. There was still 18 months on (players') contracts and no-one asked. No-one has to worry. Write what you want, the club is stable. Everything will be fine, I'm 100% sure. I would recommend to stay calm."
After Liverpool's 5-2 win over Norwich City in their fourth-round FA Cup game on Sunday, Van Dijk was asked whether he sees himself as part of Liverpool's post-Klopp era.
"That's a big question. Well, I don't know," Van Dijk said.
When told he had only 18 months left on his contract, the player said: "That is correct — good maths. Listen, I don't know." REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/liverpool-to-be-without-salah-for-next-two-league-games-at-least-says-klopp
| 2024-01-30T16:22:15Z
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Tottenham Hotspur are unlikely to sign more players during the January transfer window, manager Ange Postecoglou said on Tuesday, ahead of Wednesday's Premier League clash with Brentford.
Fifth-placed Tottenham have brought in forward Timo Werner on loan from RB Leipzig and signed defender Radu Dragusin from Genoa this month, as they look to break back into the top four.
"Unlikely, I'd say. I don't see any incomings," Postecoglou told reporters in London.
But Spurs will welcome back midfielder Pape Matar Sarr, who started 16 league games this season before leaving for national duty with Senegal at the African Cup of Nations, where they were knocked out in the second round.
"He should be back tomorrow at some stage. Disappointed for him. Senegal kind of had a real ambition to win the competition... He should be fine for Saturday," Postecoglou said.
The manager praised Brentford and England striker Ivan Toney, who scored 19 minutes into his comeback earlier this month from an eight-month ban for betting offences.
"As soon as he comes into that team he gives them a different look," he said. "So much of (Brentford's) attacking threat revolves around him."
Tottenham trail fourth-placed Aston Villa by three points, and were knocked out of the FA Cup after a fifth-round loss to Manchester City on Saturday.
"I think the other night gives us a sense of where we are at a little bit with regards to our destination. But in terms of our starting point I really believe we have made progress... the results are slowly inching our way as well," he said.
"If we continue to make progress... there's belief in us that we can bridge that gap at some point."
Postecoglou also said Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp's decision to leave the club at the end of the season came as a "shock to everyone."
"It is hard these days to stay at one club for a long time... when you stay at one club and you need to do one, two, maybe a third rebuild, it can be taxing. He's done it, he's an unbelievable manager," he said.
"I'm interested to see how long his sabbatical lasts. I'm kind of hoping it lasts for a while because it gives me hope... because I have those thoughts in my mind often.
"I've got a sense it just drags us back in, but I hope he does have the break that I think he deserves," he added. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/tottenhams-postecoglou-says-no-more-signings-likely-sarr-may-play-on-saturday
| 2024-01-30T16:22:26Z
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DOHA - Srecko Katanec warned that his depleted Uzbekistan can “surprise” hosts and holders Qatar after defeating Thailand 2-1 on Jan 30 to reach the Asian Cup quarter-finals.
The Uzbeks have been touted as dark horses for the title and took the lead in the first half with a cool Azizbek Turgunboev finish through the legs of the goalkeeper.
Thailand were the lowest-ranked team left at the tournament, but they hit back just before the hour with an even better goal, from distance, by substitute Supachok Sarachat.
Uzbekistan went ahead again midway through the second half when highly rated 20-year-old CSKA Moscow attacker Abbosbek Fayzullaev struck from outside the box.
This time, Thailand had no reply, despite some late pressure.
Uzbek coach Katanec felt his side should have scored two more goals in the first half but was delighted with the result, given they were missing several first-choice players.
“Imagine what kind of work I have to do,” said the Slovenian, adding that he is missing five players who would normally start.
None will be available to face Qatar on Feb 3 in the last eight.
“We also have some virus, many players are ill, but we performed well and our players did their job,” he said.
Despite being short of his best side Katanec struck a defiant tone, saying: “We can surprise Qatar, why not?“
Playing on the left side of the attack, match-winner Fayzullaev was on the end of some robust Thai challenges and asked to be substituted in injury time.
“I am used to this since childhood,” said Fayzullaev, who was named man of the match after his second goal of the competition.
“I want to thank my uncle – he said a player has to have character to play at the top level.”
Thailand’s Japanese coach Masatada Ishii hopes their run to the knockouts for the second time in a row can be the start of something good for Thai football.
But he warned: “There are many things we have to fix.
“Not only the national team but also the domestic league and support from the football association, to develop more and be as one, so we can come back here again.”
Moment of class
Thailand did not concede a goal in three matches as they finished second to Saudi Arabia in their group.
Uzbekistan were, however, the better side from the off and after squandering several chances, took the lead in the 37th minute.
Turgunboev chested the ball down in the box before sweeping the ball first time through the legs of goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai. It was his second goal in Qatar and a moment of class.
The Uzbeks racked up 10 shots to Thailand’s one in a one-sided opening period in front of 19,000 at Al Janoub Stadium.
Ishii made a double change and it paid off in spectacular style on 58 minutes.
The newly introduced Supachok exchanged passes with Supachai Chaided before bending the ball wonderfully into the bottom corner from outside the box.
The two teams were level for just seven minutes.
Fayzullaev turned on the edge of the box and stroked the ball through the legs of a Thai defender and into the bottom corner.
In the other last-16 match on Jan 30, Jurgen Klinsmann’s South Korea face a Saudi side coached by another European great in Roberto Mancini. AFP
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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/uzbekistan-plot-qatar-surprise-in-asian-cup-quarter-final-clash
| 2024-01-30T16:22:36Z
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QUITO - Ecuador will start to gradually reduce its gasoline subsidy from the second quarter of this year, as well as work to improve the electrical grid and build a national refining system, President Daniel Noboa said on Tuesday.
Noboa wants the measures to help finance his military offensive against criminal gangs, which he has designated as terrorist groups.
As the country's economy struggles with liquidity problems and external debt, the president has also asked the National Assembly to approve increases to value added tax (VAT) and he wants to delay the closure of the ITT oil block in the Amazon.
"We agree with targeting subsidies," Noboa said in an interview with Ecuavisa, a local television channel. "(But) we cannot change subsidies that affect the people or the country's competitiveness. It has to be progressive; we cannot strike at once, but rather as we generate greater efficiencies."
Subsidies will be removed gradually from gasoline, he said, adding that domestic gas and diesel will not be affected by the change.
Last year Ecuador expected to allocate more than $2.6 billion of its budget to fuel subsidies.
The government is looking for foreign investment to build a diesel refining system in Ecuador and improve the electrical grid to make eliminating the subsidies sustainable, Noboa said.
Noboa's VAT proposal would increase sales tax from 12% to 15% until 2026, when it would decline to 13%. The bill would also levy taxes on the profits of private banks and large companies. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/ecuador-to-begin-cutting-fuel-subsidies-in-q2
| 2024-01-30T16:22:47Z
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ROME - Kenya is going to push ahead with plans to lead a U.N.-approved security mission to Haiti, despite a court in Nairobi last week blocking the deployment, Kenyan President William Ruto told Reuters on Tuesday.
The international force is aimed at tackling rampant gang violence in the Caribbean nation, which killed nearly 5,000 people last year, and is due to be initially financed by the United States.
The mission was thrown into doubt after the Kenyan court ruled that it would be unconstitutional to deploy officers abroad unless there was a "reciprocal arrangement" in place with the host government.
Ruto said Haiti had asked for help months ago, and he expected a request would come shortly that would satisfy the demands of the court.
"So that mission can go ahead as soon as next week, if all the paperwork is done between Kenya and Haiti on the bilateral route that has been suggested by the court," Ruto said following an Italian-Africa summit in Rome.
Asked if discussions were underway with Haiti to get the necessary request, Ruto said: "Absolutely. Haiti have actually written formally, not today, several months ago."
Haiti first sought help in 2022 as gang violence surged but was unable to find anyone willing to take charge, with many foreign governments wary of supporting the impoverished country's unelected administration.
Kenya, which has a long history of taking part in international peace-keeping operations, stepped forward last July and committed 1,000 police officers, saying it was doing so in solidarity with a brother nation.
The Bahamas, Antigua and Barbuda, and Jamaica subsequently said they were willing to help, with the United States pledging $200 million to get the deployment off the ground.
"The mission is on course. The mission is a bigger calling to humanity," Ruto said, stressing that it was a police rather than a military operation.
The United Nations said last week that it had documented 4,789 people killed by gang violence in Haiti last year, an increase of 119% from 2022, and that another 3,000 people had been kidnapped. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/kenyan-president-says-haiti-mission-to-go-ahead-despite-court-ruling
| 2024-01-30T16:22:57Z
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WARSAW - Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said on Jan 30, ahead of key talks on the Ukraine conflict, that the EU would find a way to provide aid to Ukraine “with or without” Hungary’s approval.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who maintained close ties to the Kremlin following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, in December vetoed €50 billion (S$70 billion) in EU aid for Ukraine.
The bloc will hold a special summit on Feb 1 to seek a solution to the standoff as the war nears its second anniversary.
“One way or another, we will find some solution, with or without Orban, to support Ukraine,” Mr Tusk told journalists.
Populist leaders in Europe, including in Slovakia and Hungary, have condemned the conflict and Kyiv’s urgent requests for tens of billions of euros in support. Only Budapest vetoed the latest aid package however.
Mr Tusk, a former European Council president chairing its summits, branded Mr Orban as “the only openly anti-Ukrainian” leader within the bloc.
Mr Tusk also said ahead of the summit he would speak to Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who has angered Kyiv.
Mr Fico questioned Ukraine’s sovereignty and called for Kyiv to cede territory to Moscow to end the war – something Ukraine has repeatedly ruled out.
“It’s in Slovakia’s interest not to be on political and moral sidelines, where Viktor Orban has ended up with his pro-Putin rhetoric,” Mr Tusk added. AFP
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/polish-pm-says-eu-to-break-ukraine-aid-standoff-with-or-without-hungary-s-orban
| 2024-01-30T16:23:08Z
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MOSCOW - Russia is increasing production of air defence missiles, Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu said in video footage released on Tuesday, adding there were "key issues" that needed to be addressed.
The release of the footage by the defence ministry follows hits by drones launched from Ukraine on Russian cities and energy infrastructure while Moscow presses on with its military campaign against Kyiv.
Shoigu was shown inspecting defence industry facilities in the Urals industrial city of Yekaterinburg and touring factories producing sea- and ground-launched cruise missiles and air defence systems.
"There has been a significant increase in the volume of production. We have more than doubled production of the missiles we need for air defence," he said at one factory.
"But there are some key issues we need to address. And we need to address them quite vigorously. There is the question of engines, and there is the question of the establishment of launcher production."
The defence ministry published the videos on its Telegram messenger channel.
Russian officials have in recent months flagged rapid improvements in the country's military industrial capacity, aimed at bolstering Russia's military in its deadlocked campaign against Ukraine.
Over the recent weeks, attacks, some of which have been claimed by Ukrainian officials or blamed on Kyiv by the Kremlin, have hit Russian cities and oil and gas facilities. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/russia-says-increasing-air-defence-missile-production
| 2024-01-30T16:23:18Z
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BERLIN - Support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) dropped below 20% for the first time since July, a poll published on Tuesday showed, after nationwide protests against the German far-right party over the past three weeks.
Support for the AfD dropped one percentage point to 19% in the Forsa poll. It remained in firm second place behind the main opposition conservatives with 32%, while Chancellor Olaf Scholz's centre-left Social Democrats polled third at 15%.
According to the poll, German voters identified ongoing mass demonstrations against the far-right as the most important issue.
The countrywide protests against the AfD have been gaining momentum in the wake of a news report that two senior party members had joined a meeting discussing plans for the mass deportation of citizens of foreign origin. The AfD has denied that the proposal represented party policy.
Following the report, German companies and their CEOs also stepped up warnings about the threat of right-wing extremism to Europe's largest economy.
"All of us as a society, but also the economy and we as companies, must stand up for our values and take up responsibility," Hildegard Mueller, president of the German auto association VDA, said in her opening address to the association's annual conference on Tuesday.
"They also scare off international skilled workers and investors," she added, saying the popularity of such a party would damage Germany's reputation as an export nation.
The AfD, founded 11 years ago, placed first in recent polls in all three eastern German states holding elections this year. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/support-for-germanys-far-right-afd-reaches-six-month-low-after-protests
| 2024-01-30T16:23:28Z
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KYIV - A Ukrainian military spy official said on Jan 30 that Russia was showing no willingness to return the bodies of dozens of Ukrainian prisoners of war Moscow says died in a military plane crash in Belgorod region last week.
Kyiv has said Moscow has provided no evidence to support its assertion that 65 captured Ukrainian soldiers were aboard the Russian military transport plane, which crashed on Jan 24 in Belgorod in Russia near the border.
Moscow says the plane was shot down by Ukraine on its way to a prisoner swop; Ukraine has neither confirmed nor denied that its forces shot it down.
"It's a statement from Russia that our prisoners were there, and so far we can analyse only their words. Now, there is no readiness to transfer the bodies from the other side," Mr Andriy Yusov, the spokesman, was quoted as saying by Suspilne broadcaster.
Russia's state Investigative Committee said last week that body parts were being collected and removed for genetic testing. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Jan 26 he had no information on what would happen to the remains or whether they would be handed to Ukraine.
The Russian Investigative Committee has released footage from the site showing a single body in a snowy field as well as items of clothing. Reuters verified the location of the crash site seen in one of the videos but was unable to independently verify the date or other details.
Ukraine's human rights commissioner Dmytro Lubinets told Reuters last week that an unofficial list of Ukrainian POW casualties circulated in Russian media after the crash included soldiers who had already returned in a previous swop. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/ukraine-says-russia-not-handing-over-alleged-pows-bodies-from-crashed-plane
| 2024-01-30T16:23:39Z
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WASHINGTON - U.S. President Joe Biden said on Tuesday he has made up his mind on how to respond to a drone attack that killed U.S. service members in Jordan, as he weighs punishing Iran-backed militias without triggering a wider war.
Biden, speaking to reporters as he left the White House on a campaign trip to Florida, did not elaborate on his decision, which came after consultations with top advisers at the White House.
He said the United States does not need a wider war in the Middle East, echoing comments from other officials on Tuesday that the United States does not want a war with Iran.
Biden has been weighing his options and the expectation has been that there will be retaliatory strikes, but the timing of the response has been unclear.
Three U.S. service members were killed and at least 34 wounded in a drone attack by Iran-backed militants on U.S. troops in northeastern Jordan near the Syrian border, officials said on Sunday. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/biden-says-he-has-decided-how-to-respond-to-attack-on-us-troops-in-jordan
| 2024-01-30T16:23:49Z
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DAMASCUS - The United Arab Emirates has dispatched an ambassador to Damascus for the first time since the Syrian conflict erupted in 2011, Syria's state media reported on Tuesday, in a new signal of Syria's warming ties with the Arab region.
Incoming Emirati envoy Hassan al-Shehi presented his credentials to Syria's foreign affair minister Faysal al-Meqdad at the foreign ministry on Tuesday.
Syria has been slowly re-establishing diplomatic ties with the Arab region in recent years, after many recalled their envoys and closed embassies in reaction to President Bashar al-Assad's crackdown on protests against him in 2011.
Saudi Arabia, Qatar and, to a lesser extent, the UAE then backed rebels against Assad - but Abu Dhabi has rebuilt ties with Damascus in recent years.
Assad visited the UAE in 2022 - his first trip to an Arab state since the civil war erupted - and again in 2023 after a devastating earthquake killed thousands in Syria.
The tragedy cleared the way for a thaw in Arab ties with Assad and months later the Arab League reversed its more than decade-long suspension of Syria's membership.
Regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia, which last year reached an agreement with rival Iran to restore bilateral ties, has opened the door for possible dialogue with Damascus especially on humanitarian issues.
Syrian daily Al-Watan reported that Riyadh would be sending an ambassador to Damascus soon.
Hundreds of thousands of people have died in the Syria conflict, which spiralled out of an uprising against Assad, drew in numerous foreign powers and splintered the country. REUTERS
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https://www.straitstimes.com/world/middle-east/uae-sends-first-ambassador-to-syria-since-conflict
| 2024-01-30T16:24:00Z
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Penny Lane, is that you? Kate Hudson is back in the music scene, and this time for real, not as a groupie in an (albeit iconic) movie.
Years after teasing a detour from the acting world and into the music scene instead, the Almost Famous actress has finally done it, starting with the release of her debut single, "Talk About Love," out now.
The song, which features an upbeat, synthy tune with bellowing vocals, quickly received praise from Kate's celebrity friends and fans alike, who had long been anticipating its release. She also plans to release an album, though no date for its debut has been confirmed.
In honor of the single's official debut, the burgeoning singer took to Instagram to celebrate the momentous milestone, writing: "Turn it up loud, put your car window down, let your hair fly around you, breathe, know you are worthy of love and then TALK ABOUT IT. It feels so surreal to have this song out, I can't wait for you to hear it."
The comments section under the post was quickly flooded with excited reactions from fans, with one writing: "Beautiful voice. Congratulations," as others followed suit with: "Omg LOVE it," and: "Great debut! Congrats!" as well as: "Not only a good actress you are but also a good singer."
In a previous Instagram post sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the disco-esque song, Kate explained: "I have always had a room for my piano, ever since I began living on my own, and I've been caught up writing and witnessing life in songs since I was a child."
She continued: "But, you know, it always comes down to the moment, and the ability to make sure you can be there for the music, and that was really important to me, and [to] have it come from that really authentic place and focus."
MORE: Kate Hudson makes major career move as she joins Mindy Kaling for Netflix project – all we know
"So finally for me that time is now," she ultimately declared, adding in her caption: "And then the time came to let the music fly the nest…"
Kate first teased that she was working on music back in early 2022, though fans had long believed in her singing abilities thanks to her performance of Carly Simon's "You're So Vain," in 2003's How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days – which recently became a TikTok favorite – as well as her January 2022 appearance on Jimmy Fallon's That's My Jam, during which she performed a doo-wop rendition of Ariana Grande's "7 Rings."
MORE: Kate Hudson gets emotional as she marks son Ryder's milestone birthday with heartfelt tribute
Still, she previously was candid about the reason she hesitated to launch a music career: that it was following in the footsteps of her estranged dad, Bill Hudson.
Bill, 74, started a band with his brothers, The Hudson Brothers, in 1965. Kate along with her older brother Oliver Hudson were raised by their mother Goldie Hawn and her longtime partner Kurt Russell, who the two consider their "Pa."
Speaking last year with Bruce Bozzi – a famous restauranteur with Hollywood ties – on his podcast Table for Two with Bruce Bozzi, Kate explained that though early in her career she expected to pursue music, the success of Almost Famous, which earned her an Oscar nomination, stymied it. Moreover, she said: "Later, I kind of rejected it because, [I thought] as you do when you're dealing with daddy issues, I don't want to connect to that part, because that's my dad," adding: "If that one connection I had to him, I failed miserably at, it would be devastating to me… I wasn't ready for that."
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/celebrities/512358/kate-hudson-elicits-surprised-reaction-fans-finally-releases-debut-single/
| 2024-01-30T16:35:51Z
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Geri Halliwell-Horner has of late been known for her more demure fashion sense, but as she posed on the cover of Perfect magazine, the star showed she still has the risqué fashion sense that saw her wow in her iconic Union Jack mini-dress.
In a photo that was shot for the front cover, Geri was all bundled up in a fabric that resembled a comfy blanket – perfect for the cooler January weather. However, despite being all covered up, the 51-year-old demonstrated a more daring side as she poked one of her legs out, wearing nothing except a black stiletto heel.
A caption on the post: "THE 100 CLUB. GERI HALLIWELL HORNER photographed by @bailey_studio. @gerihalliwellhorner talks to Perfect about where she feels at home. She loves being near the English sea but home is always just where her family is. Read the full interview in the new HOME Issue."
Although Geri spoke of her fondness for the sea, the star's two countryside homes are not near to the coast. The singer and her husband, Christian, have two lavish countryside homes, one located in Oxfordshire and the other in Hertfordshire.
Christian and Geri have a number of animals at their country retreat, including goats. Sharing a photo of herself and her husband in their garden, Geri wrote: "Check out the new brood!" The mum-of-two has previously shared looks inside her Banbury home as she picked raspberries with her daughter Monty. It featured an enormous greenhouse and various vegetable patches.
On their farm, Geri and Christian raise racehorses, and the over the weekend, the pair were filled with celebration as their horse, Hope, completed her first race. The singer looked ravishing in a pair of white trousers alongside a cream jumper to keep away the chilly weather, while Christian looked quite dapper in a brown coat and blue trousers as they posed with the horse.
In her caption, Geri shared her pride, as she penned: "Well done Hope! (race name Look at Mee) first race today."
Geri is creating a small horse empire for herself, previously having entered horses like Hildie and Hector into different races. The star seems to enjoy a musical theme to her horses' racing names, revealing that Hildie was named 'It's Raining Men'.
Geri's horse Hector is a previous race winner, with the mum-of-two celebrating his big win last year. Captioning a string of photos and videos from the big day, Geri penned: "Congratulations. Lift Me Up/Hector! His first big race! Newbury - first time under rules."
Geri married Christian on 15 May 2015, with a ceremony at St Mary's Church in Woburn, before hosting their reception at nearby Woburn Abbey. And in an interview with Phillip Schofield and Holly Willoughby, the star described the occasion as "truly the happiest day" of her life.
She revealed: "People talk about their wedding day and until you get there, you don't really know what it's going to be like. It truly was the happiest day of my life, it was so amazing."
RELATED: Geri Halliwell-Horner shocks fans with wild photo
SEE: Geri Halliwell-Horner looks positively angelic for special outing close to her heart
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/fashion/celebrity-style/512364/geri-halliwell-horner-wows-risque-photo-toned-legs/
| 2024-01-30T16:35:52Z
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Chrissy Teigen is often sharing relatable parenting posts on social media and likes to keep it real when she shares both the good and the bad.
The model opened up about her relationship with John Legend during an appearance on The Drew Barrymore Show, which aired on Tuesday January 30, and reflected on how it had changed over time.
Admitting that one of their fights was that they "don't fight enough," Chrissy went on to say that these days, both her and John's biggest "battle" was trying to get their children to get along - which can be watched in the video below.
She explained: "Honestly I think we’re always very thoughtful. If we’re arguing about something, he doesn’t argue often and I think one of our fights is actually that we don't fight enough. You know sometimes the passion is there and you want him to get riled up about something and it’s just not there but he brings me down to a level where I’m like, 'Okay I’m over reacting a little I’m being a little crazy.'
"I don't even have like advice or, it’s just like I found someone really great and right now our biggest battles are just trying to get our kids to get along so that part of it is so fun seeing us grow into parents.
"We were kids when we got together and now we have so many kids and seeing him as a dad and seeing how busy he is and how he will come from work and play football and they will ask anything of him and he will be there and he'll do it." The doting mom-of-four then gave a sweet insight into her tenth wedding anniversary celebrations.
"We celebrated our tenth wedding anniversary and, in my speech, it had really driven me crazy that on our wedding day I hadn’t written my own vows because I was so nervous and I made sure to write my vows and then I looked down at his family and I graciously thanked them for creating such an incredible being. Is that so corny?" she said.
Chrissy and John are parents to Luna, seven, Miles, five, one-year-old Esti and Wren, seven months.
The family have faced a big change this year, after Chrissy's mom, Vilailuck "Pepper" Teigen, moved out of the family home to move back to Thailand to live "her best life".
While Chrissy is happy for her mom, it's clearly a huge change for her, having been used to having her mother around at home since Luna was a baby. Relationship expert Louella Alderson, co-founder of dating app, Sp Syncd, has shared her thoughts with HELLO! about the emotional impact the transition will have on both Chrissy - who has an incredibly close relationship with her mom, as well as her four young children, who have grown up with Pepper playing a vital role in their lives.
"Moving can have a significant impact on families, especially when a parent or other close family member leaves to live in another country. The impact can be both emotional and practical, and it can affect each family member in different ways," she said.
Of course, there are many positives too, with Chrissy having already revealed that the family plan to visit Pepper every Spring Break.
"For Chrissy, Pepper moving back to Thailand could also be seen as an opportunity for her and John to experience life without the ease of having her mum on hand to help out with everything. While it could be a challenge at first, it could also be a chance for them to grow as parents and strengthen their family unit. The distance may even bring them closer together as they learn to appreciate each other more and make the most of the time they have together when they visit Pepper," Louella said.
"Visiting Thailand will also be a good opportunity for their children to learn about their heritage, different cultures, and ways of life. It can open their minds to new perspectives and experiences, making them more well-rounded individuals.
Read more HELLO! US stories here
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/healthandbeauty/mother-and-baby/512354/chrissy-teigen-reveals-battle-at-home-with-john-legend-and-4-children/
| 2024-01-30T16:35:55Z
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Despite undergoing surgery in recent days, King Charles looked in great spirits as he and Queen Camilla departed the London Clinic on Monday.
The monarch was discharged from the hospital after undergoing surgery for an enlarged prostate and, as such, his upcoming engagements have been rescheduled while he recuperates at home.
A statement from the Palace read: "His Majesty would like to thank the medical team and all those involved in supporting his hospital visit, and is grateful for all the kind messages he has received in recent days."
Charles, 75, and his wife waved before getting into a car to head home for a period of rest. It's not been confirmed which royal residence Their Majestys were heading to, but the monarchs likely headed to Gloucestershire to their countryside abode, Highgrove House.
The royal residence has long been a favourite of his for decades now. It previously served as the ideal weekend home for the King and his two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, when the boys were young children.
The then-Prince of Wales and the late Princess Diana would frequent Highgrove often with the boys, making the most of the large and private land.
Now, Highgrove House continues to be the home of choice for the King and Queen, and with its nine bedrooms, beautiful décor and sprawling gardens – it's not hard to see why.
The 18th-century building sits on 900 acres of land and given the monarch's planet-focused passion for gardening and all things organic, the botanical sanctuary no doubt provides comfort for Charles and will be the perfect place to reside and rest over the coming weeks.
The most recognisable part of the gardens at Highgrove is the extended pathway leading from the back of the house out to the rest of the estate.
At the end of the pathway sits a beautiful pond, and the tall, perfectly manicured pine trees line the path all the way down. An aerial shot of the garden also shows the huge trees that are scattered on the lawn across the rear garden, too.
Former royal butler Grant Harold previously spoke to HELLO! and agreed that Highgrove is of enormous sentimental value to the King.
"Highgrove has always been the scene for any kind of big celebrations to do with birthdays, especially for the King and the Queen. Highgrove is very important to him, it’s been his home for 40 years," Grant said.
You can see more of Highgrove gorgeous surroundings in the video below.
"It's his sanctuary, he has got a literal sanctuary in the chapel there too, it's somewhere he escapes to… it's his heaven and the place he likes to be most."
MORE: Prince William and Princess Kate 'extremely happy' since leaving London
MORE: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's grand dining room at $30m Montecito mansion is fit for a castle
Proving the special place Highgrove holds in the King's heart, he and Queen Camilla enjoyed many festivities at Highgrove House at the end of 2023, most notably his 75th birthday.
King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted an afternoon tea on the eve of his birthday at Highgrove to mark his milestone, as well as the milestone anniversaries of the NHS and the Windrush generation.
A number of official photographs and portraits of the King show how comfortable he feels at the residence. There have been snaps of the monarch walking the estate in his country gear, looking more than at home among the crops.
The front of the Georgian house is also stunning. The large front door to the building and surrounding windows at the front of the huge house are enveloped by crawling ivy and shrubbery, adding even more of a botanical theme to the entire property.
Charles isn't afraid to get stuck into the hard work either. The green-fingered royal has often been involved with gardening jobs and work at home over the years, alongside a team of experts he enlists to help out.
However, we imagine the gardeners will take over for the time being while the King takes some time to rest and recuperate, just as the doctor ordered.
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https://www.hellomagazine.com/homes/512356/king-charless-botanical-sanctuary-at-favourite-private-residence-is-a-post-operation-haven/
| 2024-01-30T16:35:57Z
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