World 

A high-ranking official from the US Administration specializing in refugees and migration, Julieta Valls Noyes, engaged in talks with Pakistan foreign secretary, Cyrus Qazi, and the country special representative for Afghanistan, Ambassador Asif Durrani, as reported by The Express Tribune on Tuesday.Although the foreign office did not release an official statement, Noyes shared news of her meeting with Ambassador Durrani on X along with an image, accompanied by a brief statement expressing, "Good to visit Pakistan Foreign Ministry and see special representative for Afghanistan Asif Durrani again today (Tuesday) for discussion on Afghan refugees, protection, and resettlement."Embarking on a four-day visit to Pakistan, the US official commenced a series of meetings at the foreign office on Tuesday, marking the first of three Biden administration officials scheduled to visit Pakistan in the coming days.The Express Tribune outlined in its report that during her stay, Noyes plans to meet with various senior officials, signaling Washington intent to find a resolution for Afghan individuals stranded in Pakistan and eligible for migration to the US.Following the expiration of the deadline on October 31, Pakistan initiated a crackdown against Afghan residents living in the country illegally. The report from The Express Tribune indicated that since this decision, the US has been in constant communication with Pakistan, aiming to ensure that Afghans eligible for immigration to the US are exempted from deportation.Approximately 25,000 Afghans, who worked for the US during its military campaign in Afghanistan, are currently in Pakistan awaiting the completion of their immigration process. With the US withdrawal, these individuals have found themselves in a limbo situation.The US has actively collaborated with Pakistan to devise a viable solution, preventing the deportation of Afghan immigrants and expressing particular concern for vulnerable groups, including musicians, artists, and journalists.Pakistani officials have assured that cases would be examined on an individual basis, emphasizing that, in the initial phase, those without legal status would be subject to repatriation.US Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tom West, is expected to arrive in Islamabad later in the week to delve into the broader Afghan situation, focusing on the current relationship between Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban, as reported by the daily.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-06 06:35:48

 World 

Hamas reportedly administered a tranquilizer, identified as Clonazepam by Health Ministry official Hagar Mizrahi, to Israeli hostages before their release, aiming to create an appearance of happiness. Speaking before the Knesset Health Committee, Mizrahi disclosed that the drug, commonly used for seizure and panic disorders, was given to the captives before they were handed over to the Red Cross.Clonazepam, also known as Klonopin or Rivotril in some places, is typically taken orally and has a calming effect on the nervous system. Side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, impaired coordination, and fatigue. Prolonged use or misuse of the medication can result in dependency, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms.Mizrahi did not specify whether the information was based on blood tests, testimonies from the hostages, or a combination of both. Committee chairman MK Yoni Meshariki has urged the Health Ministry to provide an official report with detailed findings and evidence to be shared with health organizations worldwide.The hostages, comprising 81 Israelis, 23 Thais, and one Filipino, were freed in a prisoner exchange during a temporary ceasefire. Currently, Hamas holds 137 individuals, including men, women, children, soldiers, and foreigners, captive in Gaza.The article also mentions that at least 1,200 people were killed in Hamas attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7, with some individuals still unaccounted for as Israeli authorities continue efforts to identify bodies and search for human remains.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-06 06:32:23

 World 

Republican Senators Deb Fischer and Mitt Romney left the classified briefing on the Biden administration defense spending package visibly frustrated. The package includes aid for Ukraine and Israel, and the senators, among others, left early, expressing dissatisfaction with the lack of answers to their questions on Ukraine. Their frustration is compounded by the Democrats refusal to address Republican demands for changes to immigration policy within the legislation.The immigration policy dispute, seemingly unrelated to the defense package, poses a threat to the approximately $113 billion proposal, which covers funding for the U.S. southern border, Indo-Pacific security partners, and Ukraine aid. The disagreement raises concerns about the continuation of Congress providing support to Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, despite previous bipartisan Senate Republican backing for a defense supplemental package.Senator Fischer, who has been a supporter of aid to Kyiv, voiced her discontent with the administration handling of the Ukraine aid request. She criticized the decision to seek supplemental funding rather than including it in the base budget proposal, emphasizing the longstanding issues related to Ukraine munitions.During the briefing, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was expected to address senators via video, but the session was canceled for unspecified reasons. In September, Zelenskyy had warned that Ukraine could lose the war without continued foreign assistance.The Biden administration is running out of funds, with less than $5 billion in presidential drawdown authority for transferring weapons to Ukraine and $1 billion to replenish already sent weapons. The director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, Shalanda Young, warned that these funds would be depleted by the end of the year.Senator Roger Wicker, a proponent of Ukraine aid, expressed concern about the supplemental passing and found the administration answers lacking on previous issues related to munitions reluctance. He emphasized the importance of passing the supplemental to support Israel, Ukraine, deter war in the Pacific, address the southern border, and address the inadequate submarine-industrial base.The ongoing partisan fight over immigration policy, with House Republicans linking it to Ukraine aid, has created uncertainty about the fate of the defense package. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer scheduled a procedural vote, but its success is doubtful without Republican support. Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell stated that the Republican caucus would vote against it without the desired immigration policy changes.Despite McConnell previous support for Ukraine aid, the Heritage Action lobbying wing urged House Speaker Mike Johnson to oppose the aid unless the administration provides a detailed plan for Ukraine, addressing the end goal, U.S. commitment, and the impact of presidential drawdown authority.Senator Chris Murphy expressed frustration with the lack of seriousness from Republicans, emphasizing the critical stakes for Ukraine existence. The proposed Senate bill allocates funds for Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, military training, intelligence sharing, and support for Israel. It also includes provisions for the munitions-industrial base and funding for the trilateral AUKUS agreement.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-06 06:26:36

 World 

The United States military is set to bolster its presence in the Indo-Pacific region by deploying ground-based intermediate-range missiles next year, aimed at strengthening deterrence against China. According to reports from Nikkei, the missile options being considered include land-based versions of the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6) and the Tomahawk cruise missile. The ranges of these missiles are reported to be 350 kilometers (217 miles) and 2,500 kilometers (1,553 miles), respectively.The deployment strategy involves the use of the US Army Mid-Range Capability system, also known as the Typhon weapon system. This move is considered advantageous, as land-based missiles are believed to be less detectable and susceptible to enemy attacks compared to alternatives like naval ships and combat aircraft. Additionally, they do not rely on ports and runways for operations.Rob Phillips, spokesperson for the US Army Pacific, highlighted the strategic importance of this deployment, emphasizing the need for capabilities that can counter potential threats to US naval bases in the western Pacific without exposing ships or aircraft to risks.The decision to deploy missiles with such ranges comes after the expiration of the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty in 2019. The treaty, established in 1987, had prohibited the development and possession of land-based missiles with ranges between 500 kilometers (311 miles) and 5,500 kilometers (3,417 miles) by the US and Russia.China, during the period of the treaty, significantly expanded its missile arsenal, currently possessing 1,500 munitions with ranges ranging from 1,000 kilometers (622 miles) to 5,500 kilometers. Experts believe that the potential deployment location for the new missiles could be the US territory of Guam, strategically positioned around 4,000 kilometers (2,485 miles) from the Chinese mainland. However, reluctance from neighboring countries like Japan and the Philippines to host these missiles due to concerns of becoming potential targets has been noted.While the army has not officially disclosed the deployment location, analysts suggest that these missiles may be permanently stationed on US territories in the region, primarily Guam. The prospect of allies allowing rotational deployments during crises remains uncertain, contingent on future political dynamics.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-04 16:48:58

 World 

The Pentagon top procurement official emphasizes the pressing need for drone defenses, drawing parallels to the heightened demand for 155mm artillery shells in the midst of conflicts such as those in Ukraine and Gaza.Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, Bill LaPlante, emphasized the urgency of ramping up production for counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) during a panel discussion at the Reagan National Defense Forum. He likened the situation to a year ago when the production of 155mm artillery shells had to increase significantly to meet demand.LaPlante remarks followed his recent visit to Aerovironment, a defense technology company producing the Switchblade loitering munition, deployed in Ukraine and reportedly requested by Israel. The ongoing conflicts have heightened the Defense Department push for advanced capabilities.Various Pentagon initiatives, such as the Replicator rapid acquisition effort and the technology-focused pillar of AUKUS, are aimed at deploying such defense systems. The U.S. has experienced drone attacks, particularly in Iraq and Syria, where Iranian-backed militia groups regularly target American forces with drone salvos.Pentagon officials, including LaPlante and Under Secretary for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu, are actively engaging with companies manufacturing loitering munitions and counter-UAS capabilities. They stress the need for the industrial base to produce these systems in high numbers, drawing on the example of the artillery production ramp-up.Despite the urgency, the Pentagon has not yet determined the exact quantity of counter-UAS systems required. LaPlante estimates that it will be in the thousands but emphasizes the importance of affordability in the decision-making process.The funding challenge looms large, as much of the allocated budget for these programs is earmarked for research, development, testing, and evaluation. Shifting funds toward production is crucial for scaling up the manufacturing of these systems and strengthening the supporting industrial base.However, obstacles lie ahead, with ongoing budget uncertainties, including continuing resolutions and the absence of a full-year appropriation from Congress. The lack of a clear financial pathway may impede the timely production increases needed to address the escalating demand for drone defenses.LaPlante underscores that the industrial base limited capacity for drones and drone defenses is not due to any fault on their part but rather a consequence of the market not demanding it until now. The imperative now is to align market demands with the pressing need for advanced counter-UAS capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-04 15:52:25

 World 

The Latvian government has recently finalized a significant contract valued at approximately €600 million ($650 million) with Germany Diehl Defence for the acquisition of the IRIS-T medium-range air defense system, as revealed by the manufacturer on Monday.This landmark agreement, inked on November 30, marks Latvia most substantial defense investment in over three decades of independence, according to Diehl official statement. The contract is a follow-up to a framework agreement previously established between the company and the governments of Latvia and Estonia back in September.Diehl emphasized the strategic advantages of the joint procurement by both Baltic nations, asserting that it will result in cost savings, enhance mutual coordination in the defense of the Baltic States region, and improve the interoperability of systems and components. Riga is slated to begin receiving components of the IRIS-T system under this contract starting in 2026.Latvia and Estonia have consistently expressed their interest in collaborating on the acquisition of such defense systems to establish a robust, multi-layered air defense system in response to security concerns posed by Russia in the Baltic region.Jacek Siewiera, the head of Poland National Security Bureau, recently cautioned NATO eastern flank states to effectively prepare for potential confrontations with Russia within the next three years. The IRIS-T SLM, a key component of Latvia defense strategy, is specifically designed to neutralize threats posed by a variety of enemy aerial systems, including aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and helicopters, operating at ranges of up to 40 km (25 miles), according to Diehl website.The Ukrainian military has reported the effective use of IRIS-T batteries donated to them, highlighting their success in protecting population centers. In a gesture of support, the German Ministry of Defense announced the dispatch of four additional IRIS-T SLM systems to Kyiv as part of a military aid package exceeding $1.4 billion. Diehl has consistently highlighted the system successful performance in Ukraine, particularly in intercepting Russian drones and missiles, as a key selling point.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-04 15:47:32

 World 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has strongly asserted that his country will actively pursue legal action against Israel for what he termed as "genocide" in the Gaza Strip. Erdogan, speaking after the COP28 summit in Dubai, expressed his commitment to ensuring that the International Criminal Court (ICC) holds Israel accountable for its actions."We will do our best to get the International Criminal Court to punish [Israel] for this genocide. This is a black mark not only on [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu government but also on those countries that unconditionally support it. And they too will pay for their silence for years to come. The world will not forget this indifference," Erdogan stated, according to the Anadolu news agency.Erdogan disclosed that around 3,000 lawyers, including Turkish legal professionals, have submitted petitions to the ICC regarding Israel actions in Gaza. "About three thousand lawyers have submitted the necessary applications to the ICC in The Hague. These people will follow the trial in The Hague. We expect that these butchers of Gaza, the authors of genocide, especially [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu, who were caught red-handed, will receive the necessary punishment," he emphasized.The Turkish President vowed to intensify efforts to ensure Israel faces consequences for its actions, branding Israel as a "terrorist state" in a recent speech. "We will not forget this genocide, and we will not let others forget it. Sooner or later, Israel will certainly pay for it. We will continue our efforts in the international arena to stop the Israeli attacks in Gaza and ensure a permanent ceasefire," Erdogan asserted.In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu countered Erdogan accusations, accusing him of supporting the "terror state of Hamas." Netanyahu, addressing the situation on a social media platform, rejected Erdogan criticism and highlighted Turkey alleged support for Hamas. The exchange between the leaders reflects the heightened tensions and divergent perspectives on the situation in the Gaza Strip.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-03 16:38:44

 World 

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have disclosed the discovery of over 800 tunnel shafts in the Gaza Strip since the commencement of the ground offensive in late October, as reported by The Times of Israel. Of these, around 500 tunnels have been made inoperative through controlled explosions or sealing.The IDF emphasizes that many of these tunnels serve as crucial links to what they term as Hamas "strategic assets." Beyond eliminating tunnel shafts, the military claims to have dismantled extensive tunnel networks, totaling hundreds of kilometers.An alarming aspect highlighted by the IDF is the location of these tunnel shafts in civilian areas, often in close proximity to educational institutions, kindergartens, mosques, and playgrounds. In some instances, weaponry belonging to Hamas has reportedly been found inside these tunnels.Lt Col Avichay Adraee, the IDF Arabic-language spokesman, issued a stern warning to Hamas Shejaiya battalion, declaring them all targets. Adraee emphasized the IDF commitment to dismantling Hamas infrastructure in the Shejaiya neighborhood, presenting two options to the battalion: surrender and disarm or face consequences similar to Wissam Farhat, the Shejaiya battalion commander killed in an Israeli airstrike.Amidst these developments, rockets from the Gaza Strip struck the southern city of Sderot, causing damage but no reported injuries. The Iron Dome intercepted several other rockets over the city.In response, Hamas announced a suspension of captive-prisoner swap talks until the Israeli onslaught concludes. Israel withdrew negotiators from Qatar, citing Hamas violation of the truce agreement terms.Casualty figures continue to rise, with over 15,207 Palestinians reported killed in Gaza since October 7, while the official death toll in Israel stands at approximately 1,200. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides showing no signs of de-escalation, according to Al Jazeera.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-03 16:19:17

 World 

A powerful earthquake in the southern Philippines has resulted in at least one fatality, prompting the evacuation of thousands, including areas in Japan, following tsunami warnings that were eventually lifted, as reported by Al Jazeera. The earthquake, registering a magnitude of 7.6 according to the US Geological Survey (USGS) and 7.5 according to the European Mediterranean Seismological Centre, struck off the coast of Mindanao island at a depth of 32km. Subsequent to the initial quake at 10:37 pm (14:37 GMT), four significant aftershocks, each exceeding magnitudes of 6.0, occurred over several hours on Sunday.Tsunami warnings were issued across the Pacific region, prompting residents along the east coast of Mindanao to evacuate buildings, with even a hospital being emptied as people sought higher ground. Japanese authorities issued evacuation orders in various parts of Okinawa prefecture, affecting thousands, although later reports confirmed no significant tsunami risk.Tragically, in Tagum city in Davao del Norte province, a pregnant woman lost her life as a collapsed 4.5-meter (15-feet) concrete wall struck her, her husband, and her daughter. The husband and daughter sustained injuries. Despite initial projections of waves up to 3 meters (10 feet) along parts of the Philippine coast, the US Tsunami Warning System declared no ongoing tsunami threat.In Japan, waves of up to 1 meter (3.2 feet) were expected along the southwest coast. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) anticipated minimal damage but warned of potential aftershocks. Police chief Raymark Gentallan reported power outages in Hinatuan near the epicenter but noted no casualties or significant damage. Evacuated villagers have returned home, and civil aviation officials found no major damage to southern airports.Earthquakes are not uncommon in the Philippines, situated on the Ring of Fire, a region prone to seismic activity encircling the Pacific Ocean. As the affected areas assess the aftermath, social media images from Hinatuan depict residents heading towards elevated areas during the evacuation, highlighting the resilience and preparedness of communities in the face of such natural disasters.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-03 16:13:02

 World 

A suspected threat actor, fluent in Chinese, has been identified in a cyber campaign targeting the Uzbekistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and South Korean users. This malicious effort, active since at least August 2023, revolves around the use of a remote access trojan (RAT) known as SugarGh0st RAT, a customized version of the infamous Gh0st RAT, also known as Farfli.The attackers employ two distinct infection methods to deliver the malware, both characterized by complex processes. Cisco Talos researchers, Ashley Shen and Chetan Raghuprasad, detailed that SugarGh0st RAT comes equipped with functionalities designed to execute remote administration tasks as directed by the command and control (C2) server, including a modified communication protocol.The assault kicks off with phishing emails housing deceptive documents. Once these documents are opened, a multi-stage procedure is triggered, leading to the deployment of SugarGh0st RAT. The deceptive documents are embedded within a heavily obfuscated JavaScript dropper, concealed within a Windows Shortcut file found in the RAR archive email attachment.Shen and Raghuprasad explained, "The JavaScript decodes and drops the embedded files into the %TEMP% folder, including a batch script, a customized DLL loader, an encrypted SugarGh0st payload, and a decoy document." Meanwhile, the batch script runs the DLL loader in the background, sideloading it with a copied version of a legitimate Windows executable, rundll32.exe, to decrypt and launch the SugarGh0st payload.A second variant of the attack employs a RAR archive containing a malicious Windows Shortcut file. This file, posing as a lure, triggers the JavaScript using DynamicWrapperX to execute shellcode, initiating the SugarGh0st RAT.SugarGh0st RAT, a 32-bit dynamic-link library (DLL) crafted in C++, establishes contact with a hard-coded command-and-control (C2) domain. This enables the transmission of system metadata to the server, facilitating actions such as launching a reverse shell and executing arbitrary commands. The malware also possesses capabilities to enumerate and terminate processes, capture screenshots, conduct file operations, and erase machine event logs, all aimed at concealing its presence and avoiding detection.The campaign connection to China is rooted in Gh0st RAT Chinese origins and its widespread adoption by Chinese threat actors. The release of its source code in 2008 further fueled its popularity. Additionally, the use of Chinese names in the "last modified by" field within the metadata of the decoy files serves as compelling evidence of the campaign ties to China.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:33:48

 World 

On Friday, the Philippines declared its establishment of a coast guard station on Thitu Island, the largest among the contested Spratly Islands in the South China Sea. The move aims to enhance surveillance of Chinese vessels, which have been asserting Beijing claims in the disputed waters, according to National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano.During his visit to Thitu Island, Ano disclosed that the coast guard station, equipped with advanced systems such as radar, satellite communication, coastal cameras, and vessel traffic management, has been completed and is slated to become operational in the early months of the coming year.Ano emphasized that these sophisticated systems would significantly bolster the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) capability to monitor the movements of Chinese maritime forces, as well as those of other nations and their own public vessels and aircraft. He referred to the real-time data collection as a "game changer," anticipating its potential impact on the behavior of rival claimants, particularly China.Thitu Island, situated about 430 kilometers from Palawan, the major Philippine island, and over 900 kilometers from China nearest major landmass, Hainan island, has been a focal point in the territorial disputes.Beijing asserts dominance over most of the South China Sea, contrary to an international tribunal ruling that invalidated its claims. The Chinese government deploys vessels for patrols and has constructed artificial islands and military installations to reinforce its position.Tensions between Manila and Beijing have escalated in recent months due to various incidents in the disputed waters, including two collisions between Philippine and Chinese boats. Ano accused Chinese coast guard and other vessels of engaging in "illegal" and "aggressive" behavior towards Filipino fishermen and patrol boats, describing it as "pure bullying." Despite the challenges, Ano emphasized that the Philippines will stand its ground and not be deterred by any attempts to oppress or outmuscle the nation.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:26:16

 World 

In eastern Iraq, a tragic incident unfolded on Thursday evening, claiming the lives of at least 11 civilians in a blast and gunfire, according to statements from two security officials on Friday. The attack targeted a minibus transporting individuals who had attended an electoral meeting organized by a candidate from their tribe in Diyala province.An interior ministry official, requesting anonymity, revealed that the violence occurred as the minibus returned from the political gathering. The provincial governor, Muthana al-Tamimi, placed blame on jihadists, specifically pointing fingers at the Islamic State (IS) group for what he termed a "cowardly operation." Al-Tamimi urged heightened vigilance against potential dormant cells of extremists in the region through a post on his Facebook page.Despite the absence of an immediate claim from IS, Diyala remains an area where the group cells are known to be active. Following the extensive territorial losses suffered by IS in Iraq and Syria, the group officially declared the end of its self-proclaimed "caliphate" in 2017. However, sporadic attacks persist, particularly targeting military and police personnel in remote parts of central and northern Iraq.In the recent Diyala unrest, a security source in Baghdad reported that at least 11 individuals lost their lives, and 17 sustained injuries in an attack initiated by an explosive device, followed by gunfire, during the gathering in Al-Omraniya village. The minibus, returning from an electoral meeting, was reportedly struck by two homemade bombs, with sniper fire ensuing.This tragic event unfolded just days before the scheduled provincial council elections on December 18, which, in turn, contribute to the selection of governors. Iraq, striving to overcome decades of conflict, including the toppling of Saddam Hussein two decades ago, faces ongoing security challenges. Approximately 2,500 U.S. troops remain in the country as part of international efforts to prevent the resurgence of IS.A United Nations report from July indicated that IS maintains a presence with an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 members across Iraq and the Syrian Arab Republic, predominantly consisting of fighters. The incident in Diyala underscores the persistent threat posed by extremist elements, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to maintain security and stability in the region.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 16:21:10

 World 

Oshkosh Defense has secured a lifeline for its production line, thanks to a recent order from Israel for Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs). The Wisconsin-based company had initially planned to close its JLTV production line by the end of 2024, following the Army decision to have AM General take over the production of the Humvee replacement. However, the Israeli Ministry of Defense recent order for 75 JLTVs through a foreign military sale, along with additional units through a direct commercial sale, has extended Oshkosh production line into 2025.In 2015, Oshkosh emerged victorious in the bid for the original JLTV contract, outperforming competitors like Humvee-maker AM General and Lockheed Martin. The recent Israeli order, coupled with a $208 million order for more U.S. Army JLTVs in November and a $160 million order from various countries, has provided a significant boost to Oshkosh production plans.The specific number of JLTVs involved in the commercial sale to Israel has not been disclosed by Oshkosh. Tim Bleck, President of Oshkosh Defense, expressed enthusiasm about the ongoing partnership with the Israeli Ministry of Defense, highlighting the company decade-long collaboration with the IMOD on various programs.Despite initial plans to wind down the JLTV production line in 2024, the influx of new orders has prompted Oshkosh to extend its production capabilities into 2025, ensuring continued manufacturing of these critical military vehicles. In addition to Israel, Oshkosh JLTVs have found favor with other foreign customers, including Montenegro, Brazil, Lithuania, and Belgium. This sustained international demand reflects the global significance of Oshkosh Joint Light Tactical Vehicles in modern military fleets.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-02 15:32:39

 World 

World leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, convened in Dubai for the COP28 World Climate Action summit, kicking off with the traditional "family photograph" on Friday.Prime Minister Modi engaged in discussions with various global leaders, including Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and European Union President Ursula von der Leyen. The event also saw the presence of Britain King Charles-III, who joined the leaders in the symbolic family photo.Upon his arrival, PM Modi was welcomed by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The leaders shared warm interactions and posed for a photograph together.During his 21-hour stay in Dubai, PM Modi is set to have seven bilateral meetings, deliver four speeches, and participate in two special climate initiatives, according to officials. He is scheduled to address the opening session of the World Climate Action Summit, the High-Level Segment of the 28th Conference of Parties (COP28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).Additionally, Prime Minister Modi will attend sessions on transforming climate finance and the Green Credits Programme, co-hosted by India and UAE. He will also participate in the Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT) Event, co-hosted by India and Sweden.In an interview with UAE-based newspaper Aletihad, PM Modi emphasized that climate change is a global challenge requiring a unified response. He highlighted the importance of global cooperation to ensure climate financing and technology transfer, particularly for developing countries that have not contributed significantly to the problem.Emphasizing the principles of equity, climate justice, shared obligations, and capacities, PM Modi stressed the need for climate action that respects the development priorities of the Global South.This marks PM Modi third appearance at the World Climate Action Summit, following his participation in Paris in 2015 and Glasgow in 2021.On the opening day of COP28, the UAE supported a crucial decision to operationalize the loss and damage fund for developing nations. The fund aims to provide financial assistance to countries recovering from climate disasters and address other climate-related emergencies.COP28, under the Presidency of the UAE, is scheduled from November 28 to December 12. The conference provides a unique platform for world leaders to build momentum for collective action against the shared challenge of climate change.

Read More → Posted on 2023-12-01 16:59:45

 World 

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Neelum Valley in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) lies the revered site of Sharda Peeth, an ancient seat of Hindu learning and pilgrimage. This sacred complex, dating back to the 8th century CE, holds immense cultural and historical significance for Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus worldwide. However, the recent actions of the Pakistani government have cast a shadow over the future of this cherished heritage site.In a move that has sparked outrage and concern, the Pakistani authorities have reportedly begun construction of a coffee house for soldiers within the premises of Sharda Peeth. This decision has been met with widespread criticism, as it entails the demolition of parts of the ancient temple complex to make way for the military facility.The construction of a coffee house within the sacred precincts of Sharda Peeth represents a blatant disregard for the site religious and cultural significance. It is a deeply insensitive act that not only disrespects the sentiments of Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus but also undermines the preservation of an invaluable historical monument.The international community must take urgent action to prevent the further destruction of Sharda Peeth. UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, should intervene to safeguard this cultural heritage site. Pakistan actions constitute a violation of international conventions and norms concerning the protection of cultural heritage.The preservation of Sharda Peeth is not merely a matter of religious or cultural significance; it is a testament to the shared history and heritage of the region. The site stands as a symbol of peace and tolerance, and its destruction would be a tragic loss for humanity.The international community must stand united in condemning Pakistan actions and demand the immediate cessation of construction activities at Sharda Peeth. The site must be restored to its original state and preserved for future generations.The fate of Sharda Peeth hangs in the balance, and the world watches with bated breath. The preservation of this cultural heritage site is a moral imperative, a test of our collective commitment to safeguarding the treasures of our shared human heritage.Sharda Peeth: A Legacy of Learning and DevotionThe international community must stand united in condemning the actions that endanger Sharda Peeth and demand the immediate cessation of construction activities at the site. The preservation of this cultural heritage treasure is a moral imperative, a test of our collective commitment to safeguarding the treasures of our shared human heritage.A Call for PreservationThe preservation of Sharda Peeth is not merely a matter of religious or cultural significance; it is a testament to the shared history and heritage of the region. The site stands as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and intellectual pursuits, and its destruction would be a tragic loss for humanity.In recent years, the site has faced further threats due to the construction of a military facility in close proximity. The decision to build a coffee house for soldiers within the temple complex has sparked outrage among Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus worldwide.Today, Sharda Peeth stands as a poignant reminder of a glorious past. The once vibrant center of learning and pilgrimage has been reduced to ruins, its grandeur marred by the passage of time and the ravages of history.A Heritage at StakeThe temple intricate stonework, serene atmosphere, and the aura of spirituality drew pilgrims from all walks of life. The site was not only a place of worship but also a hub for cultural exchange and social gatherings.Alongside its academic stature, Sharda Peeth served as a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus, particularly Kashmiri Pandits. The temple was dedicated to Goddess Sharada, and devotees would undertake arduous journeys to seek her blessings.A Pilgrimage DestinationThe temple complex attracted scholars and students from across the Indian subcontinent, seeking enlightenment and spiritual guidance. Its reputation extended far and wide, earning it the title of "The Temple of Knowledge" or "The University of Kashmir."Sharda Peeth, also known as Sharada Peetha or Sarvajnanpeetha, meaning "the seat of Sharada," emerged as a prominent center of learning during the 7th to 12th centuries CE. Its name is derived from Sharada, the Kashmiri form of Goddess Saraswati, the Hindu deity of knowledge and wisdom.A Beacon of KnowledgeNestled amidst the picturesque Neelum Valley in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) lies the revered site of Sharda Peeth, an ancient seat of Hindu learning and pilgrimage. Dating back to the 8th century CE, this sacred complex holds immense cultural and historical significance for Kashmiri Pandits and Hindus worldwide.Sharda Peeth legacy of learning, devotion, and cultural exchange deserves to be preserved for future generations. Its restoration and protection would serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of knowledge, the beauty of faith, and the importance of preserving our shared cultural heritage.

Read More → Posted on 2023-11-30 05:01:27