by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | General
Oscar Arias, the ex-leader of Costa Rica and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, mentioned that his U.S. visa was rescinded without any clarification provided, just a few weeks following his criticism of then-U.S. President Donald Trump.
This week, Arias received an email from the US State Department stating, “New information has emerged suggesting that you might not qualify for your visa.”
The message stated that Arias would need to submit a new visa application if he planned to visit the United States.
The individual, who is 84 years old, stated on Wednesday that he was unaware of the reasons behind the revocation of his visa. However, he admitted that Washington might not have been pleased with his remarks regarding Russia’s comprehensive invasion of Ukraine, the trade disputes between the United States and China, or Israel’s ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Arias, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1987 for his work in ending civil conflicts in Central America, recently drew parallels between Trump’s behavior and that of a Roman emperor.
“Smaller nations have always found it challenging to oppose the U.S. government, particularly when their leader acts akin to a Roman emperor, dictating directives to the global community,” Arias stated in a social media posting back in February.
Following the U.S.’s decision to revoke the visas of three Costa Rican legislators who were against President Rodrigo Chaves’s decree excluding Chinese companies from participating in the nation’s 5G network—a step urged by Washington—he made remarks on social media.
This week, yet another political opponent from the Central American country experienced the revocation of their US visa.
On Wednesday, following Trump’s announcement of a series of tariffs targeting numerous trading partners, which included a 10% tax on goods coming from Costa Rica, Arias spoke out against this move and stated that it was illogical.
“History bears witness,” stated Arias, who served as the President of Costa Rica twice, first from 1986 to 1990 and then again from 2006 to 2010.
Empirically speaking, you can observe that nations with more open economies and greater freedom of trade are the ones that have experienced higher growth and managed to enhance their conditions relatively quickly.
The ex-president of Costa Rica mentioned that he wasn’t troubled at all by the choice made by Washington to take away his visa.
He mentioned, ‘The United States has already bestowed upon me 93 honorary degrees.’
“They won’t be offering me anything else. My primary motivation for visiting the United States was to receive those doctoral degrees. I would have preferred if this hadn’t occurred since I hold great admiration for that country and its people,” Arias stated additionally.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | asia, economics, international relations, politics, sustainability
Bangkok, April 3 — Professor Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Advisor, will participate in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit on Friday as Bangladesh takes over the leadership role of the organization for the coming two years.
The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) includes seven nations from the Bay of Bengal area — Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Officials stated that the leadership of BIMSTEC, recognized as a vital platform for advancing regional growth, infrastructure links, and economic advancement in the Bay of Bengal area, shifts based on the alphabetical sequence of the English names of its member countries.
During the Summit, the transition of leadership occurs as the country currently heading BIMSTEC, which acts as the host for the Summit, passes on the chairmanship to the following member state in alphabetical order.
The theme for the 6th summit, which is taking place three years following the fifth summit (held virtually in Colombo on March 30, 2022), is “Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC.”
At the start of the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, attendees will gather for a group photograph. This will be succeeded by welcoming remarks from the BIMSTEC Chairperson and Thai Prime Minister. A moment of silence will then be held to honor those affected by the recent earthquakes.
Following the endorsement of the agenda, the heads of BIMSTEC states will deliver their addresses.
Following the transfer of BIMSTEC leadership, the incoming chairperson will address the gathering, with concluding comments provided by the Thai prime minister, as informed by an official to UNB.
According to the BIMSTEC Secretariat, the summit seeks to promote cooperation amongst member nations to tackle common security and development issues. It will inject fresh momentum into ongoing initiatives aimed at achieving a thriving, robust, and open BIMSTEC region.
The Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, stated that the summit will enhance and intensify the ties between Bangladesh and other BIMSTEC nations. He also emphasized its crucial role in promoting regional stability and progress.
“There’s no doubt that this sixth BIMSTEC Summit marks a significant move forward for the new Bangladesh within the regional landscape via BIMSTEC,” he stated, expressing his hope for the summit’s success.
Summit Agenda
The summit, according to the BIMSTEC headquarters, features an extensive agenda – including the endorsement of the declaration from the 6th BIMSTEC Summit, capturing the vision of the leaders along with their resolutions and instructions; also encompassing the approval of the Bangkok Vision 2030.
This initial vision document will be endorsed by the Leaders. It offers a detailed and actionable guide for enhancing collaboration among the BIMSTEC member states moving forward.
The signing of the agreement for Maritime Transport Collaboration seeks to boost marine transportation within the Bay of Bengal. This initiative intends to improve the movement of goods and individuals among member states, facilitating increased commerce and travel between them.
In the meantime, the endorsement of memorandums of understanding (MOUs) between BIMSTEC and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), along with those between BIMSTEC and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), forms part of the plan. These agreements aim to usher in a fresh chapter of collaborative development efforts involving BIMSTEC and these entities.
The approval of the Rules of Procedure for the BIMSTEC Mechanisms, along with the Charter, will establish the basic structure for regional collaboration within BIMSTEC. Additionally, the endorsement of the Report from the Eminent Persons Group regarding the future path of BIMSTEC is also part of the discussion points.
In 2024, the team convened six times. Following consultations with pertinent stakeholders, they completed their report through thorough discussions and finalized it in September 2024.
The report includes several recommendations, and the member states have begun taking actions intended to implement the findings of the report.
Amidst the swiftly changing and unpredictable global political and economic landscape, the 6th BIMSTEC Summit aims to strengthen even more the crucial function of BIMSTEC—the sole regional body in the Bay of Bengal—in promoting collaboration among nations. This initiative seeks to empower member states to address common security concerns and foster sustainable growth effectively.
Since BIMSTEC was established in June 1997, five summits have taken place in Bangkok (2004), New Delhi (2008), Nay Pyi Taw (2014), Kathmandu (2018), and Colombo (2022).
It focuses on regional collaboration across seven key areas: Agriculture & Food Security; Connectivity; Environmental Protection & Climate Change; Cultural Exchanges & Interactions; Scientific Research, Technological Advancement & Innovation; Security Matters; and Commerce, Investments & Economic Growth.
The collaboration encompasses eight sectors: Blue Economy, Mountain Economy, Energy, Disaster Management, Fisheries & Livestock, Poverty Alleviation, Health, and Human Resource Development.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | culture, heritage, history, indian national news, religion
Bangkok [Thailand], April 3 (ANI): While visiting Thailand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a display of ‘Ramakien,’ a version of the Ramayana shaped by Thai culture. Ramakien serves as the national epic of Thailand and holds significant importance within their literary traditions.
No matter where Prime Minister Modi travels, he brings with him an exhibition of India’s spiritual legacy. Each international trip made by Mr. Modi serves as a platform to highlight India’s profound cultural practices.
Following a posting on X, Prime Minister Modi stated, “An unparalleled cultural connection! I had the privilege of watching an enthralling rendition of the Thai version of Ramayana, known as Ramakien. This event provided a deeply enlightening experience that vividly highlighted the common cultural and civilizational bonds linking India with Thailand. The enduring legacy of Ramayana indeed persists in bridging emotions and customs throughout numerous regions of Asia.”
While visiting Mauritius in March 2025, Prime Minister Modi went to Ganga Talao, where he presented sacred water from the Triveni Sangam, symbolizing the spiritual bond between India and Mauritius.
As a symbol of cultural and spiritual bond, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 12 combined the holy water from the Ganges, sourced from the Prayagraj Mahakumbh, with the waters of the Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin) located in Port Louis, Mauritius.
During his trip to Kuwait in December, Prime Minister Modi met with two Kuwaiti individuals known for their work in translating and releasing Arabic editions of the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
While visiting Brazil in November 2024, Prime Minister Modi was greeted with the recitation of mantras upon his arrival.
During his visit, he also had the chance to watch a performance of the Ramayana in Rio de Janeiro.
In November 2024, when PM Modi was visiting Guyana, he had the opportunity to experience heartfelt Ram Bhajans along with Vedic chants performed by children.
Last October in Russia, Prime Minister Modi experienced Russian citizens performing Krishna bhajans during his welcome ceremony in Kazan.
Last year in Laos, Prime Minister Modi was greeted by local residents reciting the Gayatri Mantra.
On the same occasion, he had the chance to see an captivating Laotian interpretation of the Ramayana.
While visiting Italy in 2021, community members in Rome recited the Shiva Mantra when the Prime Minister was present. (ANI)
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | international relations, news, politics, politics and government, politics and law
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs Commissioner Cui Jianchun has made ‘serious representations’ to US Consul General Gregory May regarding sanctions imposed on six officials.
The official from Beijing responsible for foreign affairs in Hong Kong has met with the senior US representative in the city to express formal protests regarding the recent sanctions imposed by Washington on six Chinese and local officials.
Cui Jianchun, the commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong, informed US Consul General Gregory May on Wednesday that Beijing will firmly respond to Washington’s hegemonic actions.
The gathering occurred one day following Washington’s announcement of new sanctions. This time, the targets included Justice Secretary Paul Lam Ting-kwok and ex-police chief Raymond Siu Chak-yee. The United States cited “transnational repression” of dissidents as per Hong Kong’s national security legislation, justifying these measures against them.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our prestigious team.
Washington additionally presented its most recent Hong Kong Policy Act Report to the US Congress, stating that both mainland and local Hong Kong officials have persistently exploited national security as an overly broad and ambiguous justification to erode the rule of law and encroach upon safeguarded rights and liberties within the region.
Beijing’s representative office in Hong Kong stated on Thursday that Cui had met with Carrie Lam the previous day to convey “serious representations” regarding the U.S.’s “unjustified sanctions” and its most recent report about the region.
The office stated that [Cui] strongly condemned and firmly opposed the U.S.’s blatant interference in Hong Kong and China’s internal matters, and forcefully cautioned the American side against underestimating China’s unwavering resolve to protect its national sovereignty, security, and developmental interests.
China will adopt decisive and strong retaliatory measures against the US actions that are seen as hegemonic and coercive.
Previously, Beijing stated that it would firmly respond to the U.S. regarding the newest set of sanctions, but did not provide specifics on potential retaliatory actions.
The Post has contacted the US consulate in Hong Kong seeking their input.
In addition to Lam and Siu, those who faced sanctions include Sonny Au Chi-kwong, the Secretary General of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security in Hong Kong; Dong Jingwei, Director of the Beijing Office for Safeguarding National Security in the city; as well as Assistant Police Commissioners Dick Wong Chung-chun and Margaret Chiu Wing-lan, both serving within the police’s National Security Department.
Individuals who have been sanctioned are forbidden from entering the United States. Additionally, all their property within the U.S. will be seized. They are also restricted from engaging in any transactions involving American citizens or entities located in the country.
In 2020, the United States imposed sanctions on 11 local and mainland officials due to the Beijing-enforced national security legislation. This included John Lee Ka-chiu, who was serving as the security secretary at that time before becoming the Chief Executive.
In reaction, China enforced sanctions on 11 prominent US senators and officials, such as current Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
More Articles from SCMP
The Joy Luck Club” actress Kieu Chinh, at 87, shares her challenging journey to fame and explores new acting opportunities.
South Korea’s ‘Kim Soo-hyun’ Petition Calls for Higher Age Limit in Statutory Rape Law
Chinese journalism grad trades well-paid position for contentment as cafeteria staff
Japan’s bento chain’s ‘no rice’ April Fool’s prank backfires
The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source of news covering China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | air travel, airline industry, civil aviation, flights, sports
Atlanta, Georgia, at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with Delta Airlines airplanes visible on the tarmac. (Image by: Jeff Greenberg/Education Images/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
–
Threatens Fines, Sanction
LAGOS
– The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) is annoyed by the recurring issue of Nigerian passengers being improperly handled and deported at their transit airports because of visa limitations.
Mr. Michael Achimugu, who serves as the Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at NCAA, issued a statement on Thursday expressing concern over numerous complaints they have received. The complaints involve airlines selling tickets to passengers but then transporting them only partway to their destination before returning them to Nigeria.
The declaration warned that any airline failing to comply with this regulation would face regulatory measures such as penalties, suspensions of flight operations, or other actions.
Achimugu stated that these measures, which included denying boarding or entry at various transit points for certain Nigerian citizens because of visa problems, were leading to considerable discomfort among travelers and damaging the image of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Achimugu stated that the NCAA deemed these practices unacceptable, emphasizing that airlines have the duty to notify travelers about any possible obstacles regarding their admission at their final destination prior to beginning their journey.
He stated that passengers ought not to find themselves in a situation where they are refused entry or sent back to Nigeria upon reaching transit points.
He stated: “As per the stipulations outlined in Chapter 19.21.1.1 of the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, every airline along with their representatives must guarantee that travelers are made aware of any possible admission concerns or travel limitations prior to their departure.”
Airlines are required to implement suitable procedures for screening and should furnish passengers with correct, current details about their travel documents and visa prerequisites prior to selling tickets and allowing them to board.
Given this situation, the NCAA notifies all foreign carriers active in Nigeria that they can no longer ignore these incidents.
He urged the airlines to uphold the integrity and professionalism of the aviation sector along with safeguarding the welfare of Nigerian travelers.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | china taiwan relations, military, news, politics, taiwan
Experts suggest that the PLA is experimenting with various tactics, such as blockades and anti-access approaches, gradually advancing nearer to the island with each attempt.
Every military exercise conducted close to
Taiwan
The maneuvers conducted by the People’s Liberation Army—including this week’s exercises—have demonstrated additional advancements in the tactical skills and coordination of mainland forces, ranging from simulated assaults to anti-access strategies, as noted by experts.
The PLA
Since August 2022, when the then Speaker of the US House of Representatives was in office, they have carried out six extensive drill sessions.
Nancy Pelosi
explored the autonomous island, showcasing varied maneuvers in every section.
The drills have expanded in scope, coming increasingly nearer to Taiwan, thereby reducing the island’s strategic room for maneuver and response times. Key harbors and possible amphibious assault locations are now effectively under Beijing’s control,” according to mainland military commentator Fu Qianshao.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our acclaimed team.
Furthermore, these exercises have enhanced the PLA’s capability to respond to external interference, reaching well beyond Taiwan’s shores. This demonstrates a clear message to the United States and its allies in the region, such as Japan, he pointed out.
Getting closer
Collin Koh, a senior fellow at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, noted that there has been a steady progression in the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) exercises, characterized by the incorporation of additional components and enhanced intricacy over time.
What we’re observing is a carefully planned effort to replicate situations as closely as possible to actual world conditions. This means it’s not merely for show or demonstration purposes. Clearly, the PLA is focused on improving and strengthening its capability to execute such missions should they be required.
Koh pointed out that unlike past drills, there were no specific practice zones near Taiwan this week—a change that introduced ambiguity for commercial ships and added more pressure on the Taiwanese military forces.
There is significantly reduced clarity for commercial aviation and maritime operations. Once drilling areas are identified, the Taiwanese military can concentrate their efforts on these specific regions. Currently, without defined zones, they must maintain a state of heightened readiness everywhere, essentially from every direction.
In the August 2022 drill, PLA forces surrounded Taiwan with six designated exercise zones. The closest, situated southeast of the island, was 20km (12.4 miles) from the port of Kaohsiung at its nearest point.
The Taiwanese defense ministry reported that 11 Dongfeng-class missiles were launched towards Taiwan during the exercise, with four of these projectiles passing over the principal island for the first time.
In addition, there were unprecedented accounts of alleged drone sightings over Quemoy, an island governed by Taiwan, referred to as Kinmen.
In the May 2024 drill, yet another milestone occurred as mainland coast guard ships ventured close to the islands of Wuqiu and Dongyin, which are controlled by Taiwan. This action challenged the Taiwanese claim of limited access to these waters, as per Beijing’s perspective.
Comparable patrols took place once more on the opening day of this week’s exercises, which commenced on Tuesday and Wednesday in reaction to Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te’s security measures against mainland China.
Although no specific live-fire zones near the island were officially declared for this week’s drills, experts observed that these exercises took place nearer to Taiwan than previous ones.
f
ore and also featured joint blockade and control manoeuvres.
Additionally, there were simulated precise attacks on strategic locations, one of which was a mock Taiwanese liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility.
The PLA Eastern Theater Command spokesperson, Senior Colonel Shi Yi, stated that during this week’s two-day operation codenamed Strait Thunder-2025A, their naval, air, and missile units converged on Taiwan from various angles.
According to Reuters, Taiwanese officials reported that over ten naval vessels from Mainland China moved closer to Taiwan’s 24-nautical-mile adjacent waters on Tuesday morning.
Countering intervention
On Wednesday, the Shandong naval strike force participated in military exercises organized by the PLA, entering from the east of the island, facing away from the Taiwan Strait. As reported by Taipei, this fleet entered their identification zone, coming as close as 190 nautical miles.
The PLA stated that the Shandong conducted strike drills targeting both land and sea objectives, assessing its proficiency in executing joint operations within and beyond the island chain, along with various multidimensional blockades and control tactics.
Additionally, a significant aspect of the recent exercise was how Shandong operated differently—approaching from the east side of the Philippines rather than going through the Bashi Channel as Liaoning did in October of last year.
As reported by Taiwan’s RW News citing unnamed military sources, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has recently adopted new tactics that deviate from past practices, with expectations of further “coercion strategies” aimed at intimidating Taiwan, thus escalating the challenges to its security.
It marked the third occasion that the PLA sent an aircraft carrier for these exercises, and the second time involving the Shandong, which also participated in the April 2023 drills following a meeting between Taiwan’s previous leader, Tsai Ing-wen, and Kevin McCarthy—a successor to Nancy Pelosi—in the United States.
In October 2024, the Liaoning aircraft carrier participated in exercises for the inaugural time, carrying out maneuvers that mimicked several intervention situations. This display was interpreted as a show of force aimed at discouraging outside interference.
As another sign to the United States, recent exercises featured imagery of PLA H-6K bombers equipped with sophisticated YJ-21 hypersonic anti-ship missiles, highlighting China’s intent to discourage outside intervention in case of a possible confrontation over Taiwan.
Beijing considers Taiwan as part of its own territory and aims to unify it with the mainland, even resorting to military action if needed. Similar to many nations, the United States does not acknowledge Taiwan as a separate sovereign nation. Nevertheless, Washington has pledged to supply weapons to Taipei to ensure its defense against potential attacks.
Coastguards and blockade
China’s coastal patrol vessels have taken on a more significant presence during these exercises, seeming to employ tactics aimed at potentially encircling the island.
The coast guard became involved in May of the previous year when their ships conducted patrols close to two islands controlled by Taipei.
During the October 2024 exercises, four squadrons of Coast Guard vessels were dispatched, among them being the fleet’s biggest ship, the 10,000-ton CCG 2901, which navigated close to Taiwan.
During recent exercises—which also featured the idea of “critical port and zone management”—the coast guard dispatched three fleets along with an additional trio of ships for patrols near the island.
Last year, a report from the Centre for Strategic and International Studies suggested that China might be contemplating employing its coast guard in potential future maritime blockades as their responsibilities continue to expand.
According to the report, Beijing might leverage global views of the coast guard as a civilian organization to exert effective control over Taiwan by interfering with airborne and marine activities.
In Beijing’s view, obstructing Taiwan’s energy supplies might have substantial repercussions for the island’s economy and societal well-being.
The island depends significantly on imported energy sources, notably liquefied natural gas, with these specific ports being essential for this process.
More Articles from SCMP
The Joy Luck Club” actress Kieu Chinh, at 87, reflects on her challenging journey to fame and explores new acting opportunities.
Val Kilmer’s children, Mercedes and Jack Kilmer, have also pursued careers in acting. Both appeared alongside their father in several movies, such as “Paydirt” and “Palo Alto.”
Jumbo Legend passes first staying test as Caspar Fownes notches a Happy Valley double
Beijing urges HSBC to aid in enhancing Sino-British relations and improving Hong Kong’s reputation.
The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | airline industry, aviation, civil aviation, flights, sports
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority has warned international carriers about the rising number of grievances from travelers who are flown partway to their destinations before being sent back to Nigeria.
The NCAA criticized the practice, highlighting that it has caused significant anguish among travelers and harmed the standing of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Michael Achimugu, who serves as the NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, made this announcement in a statement on Thursday.
“These actions, which involve the refusal of boarding or denial of entry at intermediate or transit stops due to visa and travel restrictions, are completely unacceptable,” he said.
The NCAA emphasized that airlines must notify passengers about any possible barriers to their entry prior to the start of their travel.
“Passengers must not find themselves in a situation where they are refused entry or sent back to Nigeria solely upon reaching transit points,” Achimugu emphasized.
According to the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (Section 19.21.1.1), the NCAA has emphasized that both airlines and their representatives must ensure passengers are made aware of any possible entry limitations prior to leaving for their destination.
“Airlines are required to implement suitable procedures for screening and should furnish passengers with precise, current details about their travel documents and visa prerequisites prior to selling tickets or permitting them to board,” he emphasized.
He mentioned that due to these problems, the NCAA has declared urgent compliance actions.
“Starting now, any airline caught participating in these practices will be subject to regulatory measures, which may include financial penalties, temporary suspensions of their flying privileges, or other suitable consequences,” Achimugu cautioned.
“The NCAA looks forward to the collaboration from all airlines in upholding the standards and professionalism within the aviation sector, along with safeguarding the welfare of Nigerian travelers,” he stated.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | General
The popular YouTube channel features “Chinese Son Heung-min,” a trending subject.
‘IShowSpeed,’ who boasts 37.8 million subscribers, uploaded a video on YouTube on the 2nd (local time) documenting his 6-hour, 31-minute trip to Chongqing, China.
At the start of the video, individuals with masks on are seen approaching ‘IShowSpeed’ as they walk through downtown Chongqing. Upon revealing their faces, one dressed like Lionel Messi causes ‘IShowSpeed’ to be surprised. This reaction occurs because this masked figure closely resembles Cristiano Ronaldo, who happens to be the player favored by ‘IShowSpeed’.
The person beside him is dressed in Tottenham’s attire and executes a ‘Click Ceremony’ in front of ‘IShowSpeed.’ Clearly, he mimics Tottenham’s captain, Son Heung-min. ‘IShowSpeed’ immediately recognizes whom he is emulating. He gazes at ‘Chongqing Son Heung-min’ with astonishment.
Individuals resembling Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Weixihao were present in front of ‘IShowSpeed.’ This appears to be an orchestrated arrangement tailored for ‘ISShowSpeed’s’ visit, considering his frequent uploads of football-related content.
As they came together, the “Global Perspective” took shape. This offers a look into the standing of Son Heung-min, Asia’s premier footballer, on an international scale.
In the meantime, Son Heung-min traveled back to London following his participation in an A international game in March. On April 4th at 4:00 AM, he is scheduled to compete in the 30th round of the English Premier League (EPL) for the 2024-2025 season against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in London, England.
yoonjinman@SANGGRALOKA
-
Song Hae Last’s cause of death was determined as myocardial infarction; he was also known as the celebrity soldier.
-
The fact that 79-year-old Yoon Bok-hee is blind is astonishing. I am unable to see out of one eye.
-
“The behavior is repulsive.” A renowned 74-year-old actor allegedly compelled performers to engage in molestation during live broadcasts.
-
Sulli’s Family Queries Kim Soo-hyun About ‘Authentic’ Shooting
-
Kim Dae-hee’s daughter graduated from Y University and is known for her celebrity-level beauty; she is the latest role model for parenting.
-
Lee Si-young, you’re surrounded by Champagne Cup thieves in Paris… “Guess I’ve had too much to drink.” Startled
-
A relationship involving both a sibling and a spouse.. “Father, Aunt, do you care for me?” The daughter’s query surprised Ras.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | General
Throughout Asia, factory workers, directors, trade bodies, and experts expressed worry on Thursday about U.S. President Donald Trump’s harsh tariffs, fearing potential job losses and significant impacts on crucial parts of the industrial sector.
Trump ramped up a global trade war as he imposed sweeping levies on imports into the United States on Wednesday, sparking worries about what the implications might mean for workers and businesses.
“Cao Thi Dieu, who assists in manufacturing footwear for Western companies like Nike and Adidas at a plant in Ho Chi Minh City, mentioned, ‘I am unable to eat or sleep properly due to constant concerns over potentially losing my employment,'” she explained.
Vietnam faced substantial tariffs amounting to 46 percent as part of President Trump’s widespread trade actions, leading to a share price drop exceeding seven percent in Hanoi on Thursday.
God, 38, was concerned that the tariffs might affect the job she had been performing for twenty years.
“What will I do if I lose my job? How can I keep making enough money every month for my two children’s schooling?” she asked.
“I only want to stay in the shoe manufacturing job because I don’t know how to do other work.”
Erik Hon, who is 45 years old and works as a director at a financial technology company in Singapore, believed that the tariffs would lead to increased global inflation.
“Everyone faces risks when the leading nation retreats into isolationism and attempts to curb China’s inevitable rise as the new global leader,” he said additionally.
Alicia Garcia-Herrero, who serves as the chief economist for Asia-Pacific at investment firm Natixis based in Hong Kong, cautioned that the tariffs might prove counterproductive.
She stated that the biggest victim is the United States since everyone is subject to taxation, leaving no way to avoid the impact of increased inflation.
‘Worst-case scenario’
Chrissy Chan, a 48-year-old business owner from Malaysia, expressed concern to AFP about the potential increase in expenses for traveling to the United States to see her family.
However, she mentioned that the tariff rates “don’t seem logical to me… I wouldn’t be shocked if the Trump administration reverses course again.”
The president of the SME (Small and Medium Enterprises) Association of Malaysia, Chin Chee Seong, stated that increased tariffs on other nations could provide Malaysian businesses with a competitive edge.
However, “we bring in many IT products from the United States,” he informed AFP.
By implementing a reciprocal tariff, local consumers will face higher costs. This will affect us negatively. The impact goes both ways.
To steer clear of Trump’s tariffs, Taiwan has aimed to increase its investments in the U.S., boost purchases of American energy products, and enhance defense expenditures.
However, Trump imposed a significant 32 percent tariff on goods from Taiwan. Although the nation’s crucial semiconductor exports were exempted, Taipei characterized this action as “unjust.”
Jason Hsu, a senior fellow at the Hudson Institute think tank and formerly an opposition Kuomintang lawmaker from Taiwan, noted that the 32 percent figure was quite unexpected, suggesting even the government seemed unprepared.
The consequences are quite significant. I believe the administration needs to carefully consider adopting an entirely fresh perspective when addressing Trump over the coming four years.
Andrew Kam Jia Yi, an associate professor from the National University of Malaysia, anticipated that Taiwan would push for additional exceptions.
Trump “gives you the worst-case scenario then batters you down to a deal that you might not want but seems more reasonable than the original threat”, he said.
by admin | Apr 3, 2025 | amusement, animals, tourist attractions, wildlife, zoos
Across the nation, zoos experienced a lively increase in visitors on Eid-ul-Fitr’s third day as families, particularly children, headed to the wildlife sanctuaries to mark the festive occasion with amusement park activities and thrill.
There was an electric atmosphere as children, along with their guardians, discovered the zoo’s wide array of exotic creatures and relished the calm, verdant surroundings.
A great many people flocked to the zoos in Peshawar, Lahore, Karachi, and various other major urban centers within the nation. The zoo in Peshawar stands out due to its extensive grounds, sprawling across 29 acres adjacent to the University of Peshawar, and houses the most comprehensive assortment of indigenous and foreign fauna in all of Pakistan.
Upon arrival, striking statues of an elephant and a giraffe at the entrance draw the eye of every visitor approaching via Rahatabad Road, igniting their interest. One such excited guest was Anaya Khan, a 9-year-old pupil hailing from the Nowshera district, whose delight knew no bounds following her inaugural visit to the zoo.
“Today, seeing wild creatures such as the cobra, lions, falcons, and giraffes up close became a reality,” exclaimed Anaya, her face lit up with joy. “I owe a huge thanks to my father for making this long-held wish of mine from childhood come true.” Similar to many visitors, Anaya was impressed by how the zoo had created environments resembling their natural habitats for the animals, along with the clean and organized visitor amenities.
The extensive collection of exotic animals at the zoo was the main attraction, drawing children and families who were enthralled by the lions, bears, tigers, giraffes, and the regal falcons.
Tourists arrived from distant areas like Khyber, Kohat, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mardan, Mohmand, and Swabi, along with the event’s location, Peshawar. They were cordially welcomed by wildlife specialists who offered informative details about the creatures present.
Established by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Wildlife Department, this zoo houses a wide variety of creatures including animals and birds hailing from different parts of Pakistan.
The zoo’s attractions, like the expansive eagle habitat where you can see both brown and black eagles flying, draw many guests. Additionally, it features zebras, camels, deer, ducks, pheasants, along with an array of birds that captivate visitors.
For visitors looking to see the zoo more quickly, a safari bus is offered, and a restaurant is on hand to provide meals.
Moreover, the zoo provides complimentary rides on swings, camels, and a small train — all adding to a delightful time for kids. Professor Sundas, who accompanied her child from Nowshera, commended the zoo as a blessing for the citizens of Peshawar, boosting not only the area’s aesthetics but also improving the quality of life for its inhabitants.
Previously, I used to travel to Islamabad and Lahore just to visit their zoos. But this year, I didn’t have to venture elsewhere since the Peshawar Zoo became an excellent substitute,” she mentioned.
Sundas highlighted how her children had a special attraction to the falcons at the zoo, underlining its significant educational benefits.
“It serves not only as a venue for fun but also as an essential resource for learning and study for young people interested in animals and zoology,” she said additionally.
Nevertheless, she highlighted aspects that require enhancement, including adequate shelters, shading solutions, and an increased number of trees for the animals’ benefit, along with improved healthcare infrastructure for their treatment.
She proposed setting up a testing lab onsite to avoid future health issues for the animals and also recommended reviewing the zoo’s entry fees, suggesting that young children should not have to pay.
The experts at the zoo likewise encouraged visitors to act responsibly and advised them not to throw stones or tease the animals.
Zoo authorities highlighted the significance of keeping everything clean and asked visitors to work together with employees so that the zoo stays an inviting and secure spot for all.
With the conclusion of the Eid festivities, the zoo emerged as a beacon of enjoyment, learning, and connection—not only for the residents of Peshawar but also for tourists hailing from all over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and further afield.
It’s evident that the Peshawar Zoo has transcended being merely a wildlife sanctuary; it has become an essential component of the area’s cultural and social landscape.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
