Starmer Meets Trump in Final Push to Avoid US Tariffs

Starmer Meets Trump in Final Push to Avoid US Tariffs


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Keir Starmer has had discussions with
Donald Trump
in a trade deal as the UK makes one final effort to avoid additional tariffs.

Downing Street
unveiled that the leaders had a conference call to talk about an ‘economic prosperity agreement’ late last night.

The U.S. President has designated April 2 as ‘Liberation Day,’ pledging to enforce

‘mutual’ duties compensating for those imposed by every trade partner.


It seems that the EU is primarily in the crosshairs, as the president erupted, claiming that the union was established to ‘cheat’ America.


Nonetheless, Britain might still feel the impact since Mr. Trump has objected to VAT, arguing that it is unjust—even though it is a broad-based sales tax and not specifically targeted at imports.

The United Kingdom presently has a 20 percent imposition.
VAT
On the majority of products and services.

The National Institute of Economic and Social Research (NIESR) had earlier projected that such tariff levels could reduce UK economic growth by 0.4 percentage points over the coming two years, which would amount to approximately £24 billion.

Sir Keir has already been unsuccessful in securing an exception from the U.S. tariffs on steel imports, amid concerns about potential job losses.


The Prime Minister’s representative stated: “The UK is collaborating with the United States to develop an economic prosperity pact, strengthening our joint dedication to ensuring financial stability.”

During their talks, the Prime Minister and President Trump addressed the advancements achieved in their previous discussions held yesterday evening.

The UK will engage in deals solely when they align with the nation’s interests, reflecting this government’s commitment to ensuring economic stability for British citizens.


Yesterday, before delivering the Spring Statement, Chancellor Rachel Reeves gave television interviews where she stated that Mr. Trump was correct to worry about unequal trade practices. However, she also maintained that the UK was not responsible for this issue.


She suggested it would become clear if a deal could be done ‘in the next few days’.

Concerns have emerged about whether the UK might need to abandon its proposed digital services tax on technology companies as part of reaching an accord.

However, when addressing broadcasters today, Ms. Reeves referred to the 2 percent tax on social media firms, search engines, and digital marketplaces as “extremely significant,” noting that it generates approximately £800 million annually.

“We will ensure that companies, particularly those in the digital sector, contribute their fair portion of taxes,” she stated.


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NUJ Kebbi Chapter Honors Fallen Journalists: Families Receive Rice and Cash Assistance

After the completion of the tenth edition of the Ramadan gift distribution for families of Kebbi State Nigerian Union of Journalists members who passed away while working, the Kebbi Area Council handed out sacks of rice along with a monetary donation of 10,000 Naira each to twenty affected households on Monday.

The notable gathering hosted at the facilities of Kebbi State Television attracted representatives from various chapels throughout the state. These participants were among those who received benefits under the NUJ Sallah and Ramadan packages. Specifically, the Correspondent Chapel was awarded eighty thousand naira along with two sacks of rice. Similarly, the NTA Chapel, Ministry of Information Chapel, and several others also benefitted.

Previously, during his address, the chairman of the Kebbi State branch of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Muhammed Bello Sarki, expressed gratitude towards the previous chairman, Malam Aliyu Jajirma, who had initiated support for the families of deceased journalists a decade earlier. “We acknowledge the visionary approach of our predecessors within the organization,” he stated, “who devised ways to provide these families with a sense of security and assurance, making sure they feel supported even after losing their loved ones.”

Sarki acknowledged the contributions of Ganau rice mills and Labana rice mills, which supported the union by providing sacks of rice. He also highlighted the individual donations made by key figures such as the Head of Service and Governor’s younger brother, Alhaji Umar Buro, along with numerous other benefactors.

In his goodwill address, Commissioner Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed BK praised the union for their generous act and promised to involve the state government the following year. His aim was to elevate the assistance program so significantly that families of deceased journalists would receive at least ten bags of rice per household along with a substantial monetary gift.

He characterized Governor Idris as a media-friendly leader known for his compassionate impact across various sectors within the state. He stated that they would organize substantial donations from the government to support the families of deceased journalists and explore ways to involve them continuously rather than limiting assistance to just Ramadan.

The yearly gathering saw the participation of the Commissioner for Information, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Alhaji Yahya Sarki, along with the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Idris.

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Beijing Calls on Swire Group to Bolster Hong Kong’s Aviation Hub Ambitions

Chinese Vice-President Han Zheng urged the company to participate in the development of the Bay Area and the Hainan Free Trade Port during his meeting with CEO Merlin Swire.

Chinese Deputy President Han Zheng has urged the British multinational corporation
Swire Group
to contribute to solidifying Hong Kong’s position as an international aviation center while actively participating in the growth of the Greater Bay Area.

On Monday, Han encountered Merlin Swire, the CEO of John Swire & Sons, who was present in Beijing for the China Development Forum.

“Han stated that the Swire Group, a globally renowned multinational corporation, has experienced significant growth in both Mainland China and Hong Kong,” as reported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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I am hopeful that the Swire Group will play an active role in the development of both the Greater Bay Area and the Hainan Free Trade Port.

The Bay Area Blueprint aims to transform Hong Kong, Macau, and nine Guangdong provincial cities into a major economic force. Meanwhile, the Hainan strategy seeks to develop the island into a leading global free-trade center with its own custom regime by the end of this year.

At the meeting with Swire, Han recognized the intricate global landscape but emphasized that China’s backing of economic globalization along with its ongoing reform and openness initiatives will contribute additional stability to the international community.

Han similarly had a meeting with the CEO of Swiss pharmaceutical firm Novartis, Vasant Narasimhan, underscoring Beijing’s backing for the creation of novel medications and fostering an improved climate for innovative activities among international corporations.

He urged the firm to capitalize on opportunities, leverage its advantages, and enhance cooperation with the nation for better growth within China.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that both Swire and Narasimhan spoke positively about China’s economic and social accomplishments and expressed optimism regarding the nation’s future.

It was claimed that both firms agreed to engage in extended partnerships with the nation and vowed to increase their financial commitment and strengthen collaboration with China in sectors such as aviation, healthcare, and medical services.

At last month’s “two sessions” political event, Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged Hong Kong to strengthen global interactions and collaboration. This directive was seen as a step towards enhancing China’s openness during the growing competition between Beijing and Washington.

In 2023, Merlin Swire headed a delegation that met with Xia Baolong, who leads the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office.

At the meeting, Xia commended the team for their sustained involvement in Hong Kong and their backing of the “one country, two systems” governance policy, simultaneously encouraging them to play a role in advancing the nation’s progress.

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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.

Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

President Murmu Visits Lord Nilamadhav Temple in Odisha

President Murmu Visits Lord Nilamadhav Temple in Odisha

New Delhi [India], March 24 (ANI): The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, has arrived in
Bhubaneswar
,
Odisha
on Monday afternoon from
Raipur
,
Chhattisgarh
.

The President went to Nayagarh from
Bhubaneswar
and had their darshan and performed puja
Lord Nilamadhab Temple
Later, she attended the foundation day celebration of Bharatiya Biswabasu Shabar Samaj.
Kaliapalli
.

Speaking to the assembly at the
Kaliapalli
The President stated that the breathtaking vistas in this region are highly appealing. There is significant potential for it to develop into a favored travel spot.

She voiced her belief that enhancing the infrastructure in this region would draw both tourists and pilgrims. This improvement would also invigorate the local economy. Encouraging everybody to participate in the development of this location, she emphasized the importance of stepping up efforts across different sectors such as farming, artisan crafts, travel, among others, with specific mention of potential advancements in Nayagarh.

The President stated that living harmoniously with nature is deeply ingrained in Indian culture and is essential to the way tribes live. They regard forests, trees, and more as deities. Tribes believe that the spirits of their forefathers dwell within these woods, which serves as a powerful motivator for conserving the forest.

The President stated that her administration is introducing multiple programs aimed at empowering and making tribal communities self-sufficient, all while safeguarding and advancing their artistic traditions and cultural heritage. She encouraged these individuals to stay informed about the available benefits and make full use of such initiatives. The President emphasized that the success of governmental efforts hinges entirely on the support and active involvement of the populace.

Previously, Madhya Pradesh’s former Chief Minister Mohan Yadav had reached out.
President Droupadi Murmu
At Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Saturday, she was invited to inaugurate the ‘Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan’ (Water Conservation and Augmentation Campaign) on March 30 in the state.

As per an official statement, the program designed to boost community involvement in water preservation and build additional water facilities will operate non-stop for 90 days up until June 30. Various activities will be held throughout this timeframe to encourage water conservation across the state.

“Today, I met
President Droupadi Murmu
Madhya Pradesh has been hosting Vikram Utsav for several years, and the start of Vikram Samvat’s new year on March 30 marks a significant date during these celebrations. As part of this occasion, we plan to initiate the ‘Jal Ganga Samvardhan Abhiyan’ across the state for a duration of three months. I have invited the President concerning this matter, and she has expressed willingness to adjust her calendar accordingly. Additionally, I conveyed our appreciation from the MP government,” stated Chief Minister Yadav. (ANI)

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Aiyedatiwa Pledges Support for Mechanized Farming in Ondo

The governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyeditiwa, has stated that his government is dedicated to promoting extensive agricultural activities within the region.

During his visit to the two private mechanized farms — SAO Agro Farms and JB Farms Limited, situated in Ore, the administrative center of Odigbo Local Government Area, Aiyedatiwa made these comments. These farms have partnered with the state government.

The information was included in a press release distributed by Governor’s chief spokesperson, Mr Ebenezer Adeniyan, and handed over to our representative on Monday.

As stated, following his inspection of the palm plantation and its processing facility, the governor praised the remarkable change from a thick forest area to a very efficient farming operation.

He remarked, “As evident, we’re looking at an exceptionally vast estate—the largest I’ve come across. It was once dense woodland, yet it’s been transformed into a highly profitable enterprise. Both the scale of the plantation and the comprehensive infrastructural advancements are truly remarkable.”

This investment extends far beyond merely planting palm trees; the company has also constructed roads and is currently building a state-of-the-art processing plant. As stated by the CEO, this facility will be finished the following year and prepared for operation. It’s an extensive investment worthy of praise.

The governor issued an order for all unlawful cultivators occupying the agricultural land to leave the area, assuring that the administration would offer substitute plots of farmland to those who were forced to move.

During his speech, the CEO of SAO Agro, Mr Ayo Sotinrin, showed gratitude for the governmental backing and highlighted the organization’s enduring objectives.

“At SAO Agro, we hold the belief that farming extends beyond mere food production; it plays a crucial role in building nations. Our dedication lies in cultivating an agrarian environment that promotes wealth for cultivators, societies, and our country as a whole. We value Governor Aiyedatiwa’s support and anticipate expanding our partnership to advance agricultural change,” he stated.

The CEO of JB Farms Limited, Mr Ajibola Adebutu, mentioned in his remarks that the farm initiated operations in August 2021 and has subsequently cleared around 7,500 hectares of land, out of which 5,000 hectares have been cultivated.

“This location was previously a hideout for kidnappers and armed bandits about five to six years back. Upon our arrival, we were unable to move around without being encircled by police officers and military personnel. However, nowadays, I am able to stand here unencumbered as circumstances have improved. Individuals inclined towards criminal activities have either departed or secured jobs locally, thereby providing them with lawful sources of income,” he stated.

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US: Trailblazing Republican Congressman Mia Love, America’s First Black Woman Representative, Dies at 49

Mia Love, former U.S. Representative from Utah, who was the daughter of Haitian immigrants and became the first African American woman Republican to serve in Congress, died on Sunday at the age of 49.

Her family reported her passing on her X account.

She was receiving treatment for brain cancer and took part in a clinical trial at Duke University’s brain tumor center, where she underwent immunotherapy.

Earlier this month, her daughter revealed that she had stopped responding to the treatment.

As per the family’s statement, she passed away peacefully at her residence in Saratoga Springs, Utah.

Filled with profoundly thankful hearts brimming over due to the immense impact of Mia on our existence, we wish to inform you that she has departed this life gently.

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Her family stated, “We appreciate the numerous expressions of goodwill, prayers, and sympathy.”

The governor of Utah, Spencer Cox, conveyed his sympathy, describing Love as “a true friend.”

Her dedication to service motivated everyone around her.

“We offer our prayers for her family and share their grief,” Cox stated.

Love initiated her political journey in 2003 upon securing a position on the municipal council in Saratoga Springs, an expanding area roughly 30 miles south of Salt Lake City. Subsequently, she went on to serve as the city’s mayor.

In 2012, she attempted to run for Congress but barely missed out on victory against theDemocratic incumbent Jim Matheson, who was representing a district that included theSalt Lake City suburbs.

In 2014, she ran once more and emerged victorious, overcoming first-time candidate Doug Owens by approximately 7,500 votes.

In her campaigns, Love didn’t emphasize her ethnicity but recognized the historical significance of her win when she emerged victorious in 2014.

She noted that her victory disproved those who believed a Black, Republican, Mormon woman couldn’t secure a congressional seat in largely Caucasian Utah.

Regarded as an emerging figure within the GOP, Love kept her distance from Donald Trump, who was disliked by numerous Utah voters, throughout his 2016 presidential run.

When a 2005 recording surfaced in which Trump made lewd comments about women, she chose not to attend the Republican National Convention and made it clear she would not vote for him.

Rather, she supported Texas Senator Ted Cruz, although he subsequently withdrew from the contest.

In her 2018 reelection bid, Love aimed to set herself apart from Trump regarding trade policies and immigration, all while adopting stances similar to Republicans when it came to tax reductions.

Even though Republicans had an edge in her district, she was defeated by Democrat Ben McAdams, ex-mayor of Salt Lake City, by less than 700 ballots.

The following day, after her loss, Trump lambasted her and other Republicans who hadn’t wholeheartedly backed him.

“Mia Love didn’t show me any affection, and as a result, she failed. What a pity. I’m sorry about that, Mia,” Trump stated.

After her tenure in Congress, Love served as a political analyst for CNN and was awarded a fellowship at the University of Sydney.

Following Trump’s victory in November, she took time to reflect on the result.

“Yes, Trump often utters thoughtless statements that are regrettable and indefensible. Nonetheless, his policies stand a strong chance of advantageously impacting all Americans,” she penned.

(ABC News)

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