ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Asad Umar on Tuesday said that the PTI government will accept the Supreme Court’s decision regarding Senate elections, adding that the government will take all possible measures to ensure the transparency of the polls.
As reported by Geo.tv, Asad Umar was holding a press briefing in Islamabad along with the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Shibli Faraz.
Umar said that the PTI government took all decisions within the realm of the Constitution, adding that those [the Opposition] objecting to the idea of holding the Senate polls via an open-ballot system have been “buying and selling votes in the past.”
He added that the PTI government came into power with the aim of bringing an end to corruption, including the tradition of horse-trading that has been taking place in Senate polls for a long time.
“For the purpose, the government has tabled a Constitutional amendment in the National Assembly to hold Senate elections through an open-ballot voting system,” he said.
The minister added that the government has filed a presidential reference to the Supreme Court regarding holding the Senate elections through an open-ballot voting system, so it will respect the apex court’s decision in this regard.
Speaking to journalists, Shibli Faraz said that the federal cabinet has approved the extension of the Afghan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement for three months with effect from Thursday, according to Radio Pakistan.
The minister said that the cabinet has also expressed displeasure on the unscheduled load shedding, and has asked the authorities concerned to end the problem on an urgent basis, the publication reported.
The cabinet was informed that the government’s Roshan Digital Account initiative has been yielding positive results and around $500 million have been received under this project so far, the minister said.
Talking about steps taken to control inflation in the country, Faraz said that market committees have been abolished, and the district administration has been asked to control the prices of the essential commodities to provide maximum relief to the masses.
The meeting was informed that effective measures have been taken to curb petrol’s smuggling, which helped in saving Rs120 billion of taxpayers’ money.


(MENAFN- IANS) Rio de Janeiro, Sep 23 (IANS) At least six suspects were killed as the Brazilian police carried out an operation in Salvador, according to local press.
Salvador is the regional capital of the state of Bahia, with more than 2.9 million inhabitants.
The police launched a mega-operation against a criminal group accused of murdering more than 30 people this month, which has resulted in 34 deaths so far, Xinhua news agency reported.
Friday's operation, during which six suspects were killed, sought to serve 43 search and arrest warrants against the criminal gang accused of the multiple murders.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Egypt's Prime Minister and Minister of Housing and Development Mostafa Madbouli - Press Photo
CAIRO - 17 July 2019: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli said on Wednesday that the economic reform program that is adopted by the government has achieved positive results.
At a press conference at the Cabinet premises, he added that the government is working to remove all hindrances to development and investment.
Also, the government is offering incentives to exporters while introducing amendments into many sectors including the industrial and telecommunications ones.
The budget has achieved a two percent surplus or about 104 billion pounds, he said, adding that the budget deficit stands now at 8.2 percent.
Economic growth rates also reached 5.7 percent while inflation and unemployment rates went down, he pointed out.
Revenues of the government have exceeded its expenses, he said, adding that the public debt went down from 108 percent to 90.5 percent of the Gross Domestic Product.


Nagpur Municipal Commissioner Tukaram Munde speaking to India TV on Tuesday during its special coverage #ZilaSammelan on how they are fighting against coronavirus. Tukaram Munde said that it has been a big challenge for the administration to convince people on quaratine process. Initially they faced resistance but after people were made aware, situation improved.
Munde said that it is important for people to follow social distancing norms which is the only way to contain the spread of coronavirus. The Municipal commissioner mentioned that people who are visiting the state during this period must inform the administration so that it becomes easy for them to be quarantined.
Speaking on issues over quarantine centres, Nagpur Municipal Commissioner Munde said that some problems over food had occured but after the mattter was reported, those issues were resolved.
On situation of COVID-19 hospital in the city, Munde said that there are two medical colleges in the city and they will be adding 4-5 more hosptials in the coming days. He mentioned that there is a need to strengthen para medical and other medical staff.
However, in some relief, the growth rate of coronavirus cases in the district rate has reduced while the doubling time has increased.


“During last Friday’s session, many issues were raised that Oyu Tolgoi and its investors have previously addressed through numerous meetings with government and ministry officials and staff,” said Cameron McRae, President and CEO of Oyu Tolgoi LLC.
“We remain committed to being transparent and open about our operations and actions. We expect these issues will be raised again during Wednesday’s shareholder meeting, which is the appropriate forum to ensure that the government representatives understand our responses.
“The fact that these issues are still being raised underscores the importance of our ongoing efforts to communicate fully with the government and citizens of Mongolia. As part of that transparency, we also want to make that information available to anyone who seeks to be informed about the project”.


Chipata District Commissioner, Kalunga Zulu says the district has continued to perform below par in maternal health as a result of mothers not seeking health services.
Mr. Kalunga said the district has already recorded six maternal deaths this year saying the majority of which occurred in health facilities.
The DC was speaking during a traditional leaders’ meeting on maternal health in Chipata today.
‘’Regrettably, Chipata District has continued to perform below par in maternal health due to low demand for antenatal coverage which was at 83 percent in 2017 and has remained below 90 percent of the national target while institutional deliveries is stagnant at 73 percent,’’ he said.
Mr. Zulu however said in an effort to address the problem, the Ministry of Health has since organized a meeting for Chiefs in Chipata to develop strategies on how to increase demand for reproductive health services.
He stated that the role of traditional leaders in the development of the nation is cardinal if the number of maternal deaths were to reduce.
Mr. Zulu said traditional leaders are key stakeholders in national development hence their attendance in such important meetings will help improve the health of mothers and children since they are closer to the people.
He further said there is need for continuous sensitization of so that people can take advantage and utilize the health services that government has brought closer to them.
The District Commissioner said so far 600 Community Volunteers such as Safe Motherhood Action Groups (SMAGs) and 300 Neighbourhood Health Committees (NHCs) who are actively involved in mobilization of the local community members have been trained with regard to encouraging people to seek health services.
Mr. Zulu also said government is committed to closing the staffing gap in the Ministry of health as it intends to recruit 1,000 health personnel.
Out of the number recruited last year, the district received 39 health workers to add to the existing 88 workers.
And speaking earlier, Chipata District Heath Director, Charles Fanaka said the meeting was aimed at engaging traditional leaders towards improving maternal health in the district.


Istanbul police detain 29 IS members
(MENAFN- Trend News Agency ) Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 28
By Rufiz Hafizoglu – Trend:
Istanbul police have detained 29 members of the Islamic State (IS) terrorist group as part of a special operation, the police said in a message Feb. 28.
All detainees are foreign citizens who took part in armed conflicts in Iraq, Syria and Yemen, according to the message.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Trump to travel to Wisconsin Tuesday
President Donald Trump will visit Wisconsin on Tuesday.
State Rep. Tod Ohnstad told WISN-TV that the president will visit a local factory, Snap-On Tools.
Ohnstad also said he believes the president will be joined by House Speaker Paul Ryan and Gov. Scott Walker.
It will be the president's first visit to the state since taking office.
The president is also expected to travel to Atlanta on April 28 to speak at the National Rifle Association's annual leadership forum. That's according to the organization.
He pledged during the campaign to fight to protect the Second Amendment and was endorsed by the NRA.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.


UK to become ‘emerging market country’, Saxo Bank states
(MENAFN) The UK is “more and more looking like an emerging market country,” Saxo Bank Head of Macro Analysis Christopher Dembik announced in a research note on Monday, CNBC announces.
The forecaster pointed to political unsteadiness, trade disruptions, an energy crisis, and high inflation as main indicators behind this.
“What Brexit has not done by itself, Brexit coupled with Covid and high inflation have succeeded in doing,” Dembik added. “The UK economy is crushed.”
As said by Dembik, the only thing banning it from being characterized as an emerging market nation is a currency crisis, with the British pound sterling holding company regardless of all of the macroeconomic headwinds.
“It only dropped 0.70 percent against the euro and 1.50 percent against the US dollar over the past week,” he added. “Our bet: After surviving Brexit uncertainty, we don’t see what could push the sterling pound into a free fall.”
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula
Doha: Qatar beat Vietnam 19-18, 19-18 to make it to the final of the 9th Asian Beach Handball Championships in Bali, Indonesia yesterday. In their sixth appearance in the final of the tournament's history, the five-time champions Qatar will now take on Oman tomorrow.
The dominant Al Annabi have maintained an unbeaten run at this year's Championship, having beaten title-holders Iran (23-18, 23-20), Saudi Arabia 2-0 (26-17, 24-17), Philippines 2-0 (17-14, 28-14) and South Korea 2-0 (23-17, 25-9) in the group stage where they topped the table with eight points.
Qatar's next opponent, the Oman, yesterday reached the title-clash with a 23-11, 22-20 win over Iran who will now take on Vietnam in the play-off for bronze medal.
Incidentally, Oman, the 2004 champions, have finished runners-up on five occasions in all of which Qatar clinched the Asian title.
The tournament serves as a qualification tournament for the 2024 IHF Men's Beach Handball World Championships.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Handley girls’ tennis wins 9th straight Northwestern tourney
WINCHESTER — The Handley girls’ tennis team has already proven to be pretty formidable when it’s had to play shorthanded.
But when the Judges are at full strength? As Skyline can attest to, there’s…
To See This and Every Local Story from The Winchester Star, Click Here to Become a Subscriber!
Login to view the full story


(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
As a result of demonstrations in Nukus, civilians and law
enforcement officers were injured. This was announced today by the
President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Trend reports citing Uzdaily .
The President noted that on 1 July 2022, in the city of Nukus, a
group of people, hiding behind false slogans, won the trust of
citizens, misled them, disobeyed the legitimate demands of the
authorities, caused chaos, and tried to seize the buildings of
local government bodies.
On 2 July 2022, they continued destructive actions on the
central streets of the administrative center of the republic,
ignoring the demands to stop actions aimed at violating public
order, he added.
In addition, according to the President, some people who took
part in the riots tried to cause clashes with law enforcement
officers, forcibly entered protected areas, threw stones and
various objects at buildings.
Mirziyoyev noted that during the march through the city they
caused significant damage to infrastructure facilities. They broke
the windows of buildings and set fires. Several groups attempted to
seize the buildings of the Nukus City Department of Internal
Affairs and the National Guard Department in order to obtain
weapons, he stressed.
The President noted that, taking advantage of their numerical
advantage, these people attacked law enforcement officers, severely
beating them and inflicting severe injuries.
“Unfortunately, there are casualties among civilians and law
enforcement officers,” he said. At the same time, the head of state
did not specify the number of victims.
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry has said that a massive operation has been launched in the federal capital against illegal encroachments.
Talking to media persons in Islamabad, he said that an area of two kilometers was cleared today from illegal occupation, which will benefit the masses. He said this is the first phase of operation, which has been started after due legal process.
The Information Minister said that the second phase of operation will be launched after Muharram-ul-Harram. He warned the encroachers to clear the land they have occupied illegally; otherwise, strict action will be taken against them.
Fawad Chaudhry said that the drive against encroachments would be expanded to other cities including Lahore.
Responding to a question, the Information Minister said that the prime minister will visit Karachi soon where the local government and the federal government will collectively launch a cleanliness drive. He said the people of Karachi have given us the mandate and we will live up to their expectations.


Forum to offer export advice
An Export Networking Forum will be held on the Sunshine Coast tonight to help local businesses break into the international market.
The forum will bring together trade experts and businesses who are already exporting and want to share their knowledge with others who are contemplating entering the export market.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson says creating new export opportunities will help to grow the local economy.
"Council's really focused on developing our export businesses and we're going to make sure those people who are involved in the export sector really understand how dedicated council is and also the commitment we can bring from other people who are enjoying success in that area and there are a number on the Sunshine Coast who really are wonderful examples of how to grow a business locally but market it globally," he said.


Asked about Judith Tebbutt’s release, the PMS said that the government could confirm she had been released and that it was important she was taken to a place of safety.
Asked for the date of last COBR meeting which discussed her case, the PMS said there had been a number of meetings over the period she had been in captivity.
Asked whether the government was aware of the ransom paid, the PMS said that the family were expected to make a statement once Judith Tebbutt was safely in Nairobi. The government has been providing support to the family throughout.
Asked for the government position on ransoms, and whether the government had advised the Tebbutt family not to pay a ransom, the PMS said that the government did not pay ransoms and did not facilitate concessions to hostage takers. However, the government had been in close contact with the family and provided support throughout her captivity.
Foreign Secretary in Rome
Asked whether the Foreign Secretary was going to Rome explain the recent hostage situation, the PMS said that the Foreign Office would be best placed to provide detail on agenda items for the Foreign Secretary’s visit.
Asked whether the PM was surprised by the borrowing figures announced that morning, the PMS said that there would be an updated forecast published very shortly. The figures showed that we were making progress on cutting the deficit this year.


CARACAS, Venezuela – President Hugo Chavez says more than 30 people have been killed in floods and landslides in Venezuela, and he is pledging to speed construction of public housing to help thousands of evacuees.
Speaking to evacuees on Thursday, Chavez said they would receive homes and vowed to accelerate construction of public housing projects in the Caracas area.
Chavez said the government was assisting more than 15,000 families that fled homes amid torrential rains. He said the government has more than 300 disaster shelters open across the country.
The heavy rains during the past month have continued well past the usual end of the wet season in Venezuela.


Saudi- KSrelief signs two contracts for the treatment of wounded Yemeni
(MENAFN- Saudi Press Agency)
Riyadh, 18 Jumada II, 1439, March 06, 2018, SPA -- King Salman Humanitarian aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) has signed two contracts for treatment of the wounded and injured Yemenis in Yemen in partnership with Al-Barihi Hospital and Al-Safwa Hospital in Taiz Governorate. The two contracts were signed at the headquarters of the center in Riyadh today, by Assistant General Supervisor of Operations and Programs of KSrelief Ahmed Al-Bayez, and Al-Barihi Hospital's Chairman Dr. Najeeb Al-Barihi and the hospital representative Dr. Siddiq Moqbel Al-Qubati.
The Director of the Department of Medical and Environmental Assistance at the Center Dr. Abdullah bin Saleh Al-Moallem said "according to these contracts, medical care for wounded Yemenis will be provided according to medical standards of 200 wounded for each hospital, and the total contract of the current 400 injured. The number of previously-treated in the private sector hospitals inside Yemen stook at 4,797 wounded and injured Yemeni.
16:51 LOCAL TIME 13:51 GMT
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


"Many bloggers who turned to opposition politics before the last elections won the seats they contested,” she said.
Many of these bloggers took up the issues people were talking about before and during the elections which were totally ignored by he mainstream media.
“Despite this, the points raised became major issues among the people during the election campaign, with the government parties forced to address these issues that had been blacked out in their media.”
Nuraina, was among the bloggers interviewed by AFP in reponse to the statement of the new information minister, Shabery Cheek , who said he wanted to reach out to bloggers.
Ahmad Shabery said he is "trying to build a bridge between the government and the people so that we can have a two-way dialogue — and bloggers are a key part of this."
Wellknown blogger Ahirudin Attan of rocky'sbru, who met with Ahmad Shabery on Friday, said the offer of talks with bloggers needed to reflect the political will of the government.
“We welcome the government’s move to engage bloggers but we are not in any hurry to meet them,” said Ahirudin, who is National Alliance of Bloggers president.
“The success of the talks will depend on what kind of mandate he has from the cabinet,” he said of Cheek’s proposal.
“He is going to be acting against the popular stand of Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi that bloggers are a nuisance.”
Read the AFP report In shift, Malaysia reaches out to bloggers here.


Defence Minister:Turkish occupation army continues to upgrade hardware
Nicosia, Jun 10 (CNA) -- The Turkish military, in occupied Cyprus, continues to upgrade its hardware, something that has been happening over the years, even when peace negotiations were taking place, Cyprus Defence Minister Kyriakos Mavronicolas has said.
He said the Ministry has so far filed three complaints to European Union Defence Ministers and to other fora on this issue.
Speaking during a press conference, Mavronicolas said that the information the Defence Ministry has was substantiated and said he also has the evidence to prove what he is claiming.
''This is information we have secured through various means,'' he added.
According to the Defence Minister the Turkish military has been implementing a major programme since 2000 to replace infantry with motorized units and to modernize tanks and artillery.
''There is also a slight but important increase in the level of the military systems they maintain in the Republic's territory,'' he noted.
He said that the policy of the government is to ''seek information and protest when these things happen.''


Kogi Government has given an immediate approval for the recruitment of 500 science teachers for secondary schools in the state.
The Chairman of the Teaching Service Commission, Chief Sylvester Onoja, who made the disclosure on Monday in Lokoja, said the approval was given by Gov. Idris Wada early on Monday morning.
The approval came at a time teachers in secondary school in the state gave a notice to commence a three-day warning strike from Oct. 7 to Oct 9.
He spoke at a ceremony by the Academic Staff Union of Senior Secondary Schools (ASUSS) to mark this year’s Teachers Day.
Onoja said that the new teachers would be recruited from among those that sat for written and oral interviews in 2013.
He said that names of the successful teachers would be out on Oct. 6, while the distribution of employment letters to them would start the following day.
Onoja admitted that schools in the state were in bad shape but said that the government was trying to address the situation gradually, noting that about six secondary schools had been renovated.
The ASUSS state Chairman, Mr Ranti Ojo, had said that the warning strike would affect 203 senior secondary schools in the state.
Ojo said that the objective was to call the attention of government to the deplorable situation in public secondary schools.
He said a situation where many schools in the state had been without principals and teachers in mathematics, English Language, sciences and other subjects could no longer be tolerated by the union.
Ojo said that over 90 per cent of secondary schools in the state were in deplorable conditions while teachers’ leave grants, arrears of yearly increment and promotion had remained unwind since 2011.
He also called for the re-introduction of the 27.5 per cent special allowance for teachers which was stopped since 2011 and urged the NUT members to fully participate in the strike.
The NUT at a separate event to mark the day also called on the government to treat teachers with respect and dignity by ensuring prompt payment of their salaries and allowances.
The state Chairman of NUT, Alhaji Suleiman Abdullahi, urged the government to ensure that part of the N50.9 billion bailout fund was used to settle the outstanding arrears of salary and leave grants.
He also advised the state government to evolve a system that would make education in the state a self-sustaining enterprise.
The state Head of Service, Mr Moses Atakpa, who represented the state governor at the two events, promised teachers that they would smile in the next few weeks.
He also said that teachers that retired recently would soon receive their gratuity and other entitlements and urged teachers to continue to support the government.


A collection of news and information related to Dave Heineman published by this site and its partners.
Top Dave Heineman Articles see all
Displaying items 1-1
Story | Oct 11, 2011 | 3:43 PMIn Nebraska, Republican Gov. Dave Heineman enacted the biggest tax cut in state history, and the state's unemployment rate of 4.2 percent is now the second lowest in the nation.


Technology companies have raised concerns about the new surveillance powers being issued by the government to help intelligence services.
The companies believe that such powers could harm data security in the long term. The government plans to hand these powers to security services to help with the war on terror and crime. Companies may be forced to help spies to hack into mobile phones and computers as part of the Draft Investigatory Powers Bill.
Privacy campaigners have spoken out against the plans, as they believe that ordinary people could be spied on. Apple has entered into the row after examining the new laws carefully. Some of the leading websites and software companies, such as Microsoft, have also responded to the committee in Westminster.
The plans for the new law were revealed in November. Apple has argued that the bill would mean the private sector becomes responsible for any hacking incidents and that government agencies would be able to intercept data and communications; however, supporters of the bill have said that social media and apps are now widely used to plan attacks and other crimes.
Apple has stated that the new requirements would create ‘backdoors’ and has described the new laws as ‘a key left under the doormat’, helping terrorists and criminals as much as the security services. Apple believes that data security for millions of people who are law-abiding citizens would be weakened and wants technology companies to continue to implement strong encryption for the customers’ protection.


(MENAFN- Emirates News Agency (WAM))
MANAMA, 22nd August, 2017 (WAM) -- Bahraini Information Affairs Minister Ali bin Mohammed Al-Romaihi today received the Chairman of Gulf Forum for Peace and Security, Dr. Fahed Al-Shelaimi, to discuss the role of Gulf and Arab media in protecting Arab national security.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Al-Romaihi expressed appreciation of Dr. Al-Shelaimi's significant contributions to advocating Arab rights and causes, as well as his stances against terrorism and foreign interference in the region.
[Image credit: Bahrain News Agency, BNA]
WAM/Esraa Ismail/Chris Moran
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


No public recommendations added yet.
Crowne Plaza New Delhi Rohini, an upscale IHG brand, is the 5 star hotel in Delhi offering business and leisure travelers a holistic approach to help for success. The award-winning restaurants and bar in this luxury hotel in Delhi are a combination of innovative design, fine dining and service-par-excellence.
how to find IHGClick To View Location
Vote For IHG
The voting system is a way for customers of IHG to change its popularity at Start Local. You may vote for or against IHG and your vote will affect its score on Start Local.
If you vote positively for the business you may also choose to leave a public recommendation to tell other people about your great experience with the business.
Note: A negative vote will count against this business's score but will not be displayed publicly. Read here for more info on voting.
Have you already registered with us?
We just need to know if you've already registered with Start Local? If so you should have already selected a password and validated your email address. If not, don't worry it's easy and will take less than 40 seconds.


More French Couples Going Unwed
Marriage rates in France are about 45 percent below U.S. levels. Whence the trend? Theories: This (French) generation’s nearly universal rejection of religion, and a massive migration to more independent-friendly urban areas.
WAIT, BEFORE YOU GO…
PARIS — Sandrine Folet and Lucas Titouh have two children, a stylish Paris apartment and a 15-year-old partnership.
They have no intention of getting married.
“We don’t feel the need to get married,” said Folet, 36, who has known Titouh, 40, since she was a teenager. “I don’t know many people in our age group who are married.”
If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.
Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.


#EndSARS: “Nigerian Youths Have The Freedom To Protest” – President Buhari
President Muhammadu Buhari has stated that the Nigerian youths have the right to protest, so long as it is peaceful and focused.
The President noted this in a meeting with Mr. Sunday Dare, the Minister of Youths and Sports Development.
He appreciated the youths for bringing the issue of police brutality to the forefront and vowed to implement the demands of the protesters.
The Minister said,
“Mr. President said the youths of this country have spoken and he has heard and he has since gone to work for the youths of our country.
“The President promised that he will ensure that the reforms he has promised are met, he will make sure that the reforms are long lasting and that the reforms will deliver for our country a police force that we will be proud of
“He appreciates the fact that they have brought the SARS issues to the fore through their peaceful protest.
“He recognizes the fact that they have called upon the government to do what is necessary and that as the President and a father, he will make sure that the demands as put forward are met.
“The President said that as far as he is concerned, it’s important to allow the younger generation to exercise the freedom to protest and make sure that such protest is in a peaceful manner.
“He said that part of the demands that were made is to make sure that those protesting are protected and that any police officer that has in one way or the other attacked any protesters be brought to book.
“So the President thinks it’s a fundamental right, he thinks so long as the protest is peaceful and focused.
“He believes that the youths of this country have the right to demand for certain things”.
Mr Sunday Dare, speaking with pressmen after the meeting, pleaded for more time inorder for the government to fully implement the reforms demanded by the #EndSARS protesters.


Srinagar, Mar 15 : Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday said that as the Mirwaiz, it is his duty to highlight the reality and truth about Kashmir issue.
“Our struggle is not directed against the people of India or the Indian state, but against the repressive means and military approach against the people of Kashmir since 1947,” Mirwaiz said while delivering Friday sermon at the historic Jamia Masjid Srinagar where prayers were allowed after two weeks.
Mirwaiz Kashmir dispute is the oldest outstanding issue in the United Nations and the issue precedes the Partition of India. “Since 1931, the people of Kashmir and its leadership have been giving immense sacrifices for the cause. Since 1947, we have been demanding that the commitments made by India and Pakistan to the people of Kashmir which are vetted by the international community should be fulfilled,” he said.
Mirwaiz said since past several decades, the pulpit of the Jamia Masjid has been highlighting the people’s rights and aspirations and will continue to do so in future also. The pulpit will continue to always represent people’s aspirations and call for a peaceful settlement to Kashmir dispute, he said.
Hurriyat (M) chairman said the present political establishment in India is launching crackdowns, making arrests and issuing summons, slapping PSA and sending political and religious leaders and cadre to jails to suppress the voice of the people of Kashmir.
These things are not new to us and we have been experiencing this assault for decades now, he said.
“The resistance leadership has made it clear at the international forum including United Nations and OIC that the Kashmir issue needs to be resolved politically. But a deliberate attempt is being made to obfuscate facts and our history of struggle through propaganda of the Indian state, particularly through the media which has vitiated the atmosphere against Kashmiris creating hostility against us. Anybody speaking about the resolution of the Kashmir issue is branded as anti-national and thereby a terrorist,” he said.
Mirwaiz urged upon the people of Kashmir to forge unity at “this crucial hour” and asked the youth to stand firm, calm and peaceful. He said the leadership was clear and committed to its stand on Kashmir.
Mirwaiz also strongly condemned the dastardly terror attack on the two mosques in New Zealand where over at least 49 people were killed and dozens injured.
“Muslims across the globe are being made targets by Islamophobic anti-Muslim forces,” Mirwaiz said.


National Security Minister Marvin Dames seemed to be backing down from government’s commitment to construct a new department of correction due to financial constraints.
Earlier this year after Eyewitness News reported on the state of affairs at the correctional facility that included the use of sloop buckets by prisoners and buildings in dire need of repair. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security Eugene Poitier announced that a new facility is part of major changes expected to take place at the Bahamas Department of Corrections (BDOC).
Yesterday, however, Dames and said the government is taking a research-driven approach to the issues.
“We don’t want to spend money for spending money sake we want to modernize and professionalize the prison,” Dames said.
“The thing is the government is in the business of not reacting from the gut we have to look at what we are against.”
Dames said that a number of studies are being conducted under the Citizens Security Program and legislation is being reviewed that impact the correctional facility.
The National Security Minister also responded to concerns expressed by the Prison Staff Association who alleged that promotions were granted to officers who were not qualified.
Dames denied these assertions and said that in the recent promotional exercise all of the officers met the standards put in place.
In 2016, the government’s Parole Re-entry Steering Committee recommended upgrades to the correctional facility, which included new staff guidelines and procedures.


BROOKLYN (PIX11) — Police on Friday asked for the public’s help finding a suspect who attacked and hurled anti-Black slurs toward a woman in Brooklyn last week.
The 50-year-old victim was approached by the assailant at the intersection of Kings Highway and Avenue O around 6 p.m., according to the NYPD.
Suddenly, the suspect began spewing anti-black remarks and slapped the victim in the face, police said. The assailant then fled the scene towards Kings Highway.
The NYPD Hate Crime Task Force has launched an investigation into the incident.
Submit tips to police by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477), visiting crimestoppers.nypdonline.org, downloading the NYPD Crime Stoppers mobile app, or texting 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. Spanish-speaking callers are asked to dial 1-888-57-PISTA (74782).


(MENAFN- UkrinForm) Electricity, water and heat supply was restored in the city of Zhytomyr. Power supply to critical infrastructure facilities was resumed in Odesa city.
The city councils of odesa and zhytomyr informed this on Telegram, Ukrinform reports.
'In fact, all boiler houses in the city are operating, heat is supplied. Power engineers worked all night, the procedure for launching boiler houses is complicated. They were restarted 3-4 times. So far, only three boiler houses have been put into operation,' the Zhytomyr City Council said.
It is noted that the heat engineers are working on restoring the hydraulic regime for proper heat supply. Works are ongoing in Zhytomyr. Read also: klitschko: 70% of capital remains without electricity, water supply restored on left bank
'Power supply to critical infrastructure facilities has been restored in Odesa. However, in order to reduce the load on the power system, public electric transport will not operate in the first half of the day,' the Odesa City Council said.
As Ukrinform reported, on November 23, Russia launched another massive missile attack on Ukraine. Due to the blackout, water supply was cut off and electric transport did not operate in Odesa.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Laschet: Leftist German administration may trigger economic disaster
(MENAFN)The German conservative chancellor applicant, Armin Laschet, rang a bell of a possible left-wing union administration following the polls, saying that it could trigger financial disaster in Germany and Europe.
He announced “A red-red-green coalition would plunge us into an economic crisis,” and mentioned a possible alliance amid the Social Democrats, the Greens, in addition to the anti-capitalist Left Party.
Laschet stated during a meeting of his party in the northeastern state of Saarland that his Social Democrat rival Olaf Scholz is going to attempt creating a left-wing union administration, whether his party, the Greens, and the Left Party get adequate ballots in polls on Sunday.
Laschet also cautioned “That would weaken us in Europe that would weaken us in terms of our relations with France. … That would weaken us in the world, also in terms of our economy, as well as domestic security.”
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Jersey Proud: South Jersey police officers take part in ShopRite’s Bag Hunger campaign
South Jersey police officers took part in ShopRite’s Bag Hunger campaign.
West Deptford officers donated their time to bag groceries at the stores to raise funds and awareness of the battle against hunger.
Shoppers were encouraged to put aside extra money to help local food banks.
In Medford, police officers were joined by firefighters and council members to help bag groceries for the good cause.


KULAI, Nov 23 — The Johor government hopes that the new federal administration will be professional by prioritising the people’s interests, as well as that of the states and country, ahead of politics.
Johor Investment, Trade and Consumer Affairs Committee chairman Lee Ting Han said although the state and federal governments are not from the same political coalition, it is hoped that the difference will not cause any issues.
He said that this is because the benefits received by the state will also be felt by the entire country despite the different administration at the state and federal levels.
“We also hope that the mega projects that are planned and currently being implemented will continue for the sake of mutual benefit.
“In terms of investment, there are two tiers, namely approval at the state level and approval at the federal level. With that I believe the newly-established federal government will be professional in their approach,” said Lee to reporters after the groundbreaking ceremony for Sun Bus Tech’s headquarters and manufacturing facility at Senai Airport City here today.
He was commenting on the ongoing political impasse that have seen the country’s stocks and the ringgit take a hit and possibly have negative implications for the economy.
This followed last Saturday’s 15th general election (GE15) outcome that saw Malaysia’s first-ever hung Parliament after none of the participating coalitions succeeded in securing a simple majority in the Dewan Rakyat.
Lee, who is also the Paloh assemblyman, acknowledges that there are large foreign investors who are still taking a wait-and-see approach due to the current political developments in the country.
At the state level, he said his office will convince the investors that the state government is stable and will continue to render assistance for the investments.
“However, we do admit that there are investors who have inquired on the current political situation before they made any decision.
“Personally, I can say that the interest of foreign investors here is still going strong due to several factors, including political stability following the large mandate received in the state election in March and also Johor’s strategic location,” he said, adding that the sectors that have been the main focus for foreign investments are in pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals and data centres.
Meanwhile, Lee said the Sun Bus Tech’s bus manufacturing facility will start work for the construction of a green technology bus body at a cost of almost RM80 million.
He explained that the factory is expected to be completed by the third quarter of next year and will provide more than 200 job opportunities in its first phase, before being expanded to the second and third phases.
“The products produced by this facility will be exported to several international destinations, including Singapore, Indonesia and Thailand,” he said.


Islamabad, Ta. 25. January 2022 Tuesday
Pakistan’s Home Minister Sheikh Rashid has once again poisoned India.
Rashid said that India has suffered its biggest defeat in Afghanistan and now its spy agency RAW is paying local thugs to disturb peace in Pakistan.
Sheikh Rashid further said that Pakistan government will not hold talks with Taliban, they are against Pakistan.
Rashid accused India of making baseless and baseless allegations that terrorist attacks in Pakistan have increased in recent months and that India was involved in the Lahore blasts last year.
On the ongoing tension with Afghanistan over the issue of border fencing, Sheikh Rashid said that the 21 km area along the Afghan border is now pending.


“We‘re very community-minded,” said Doolan. “We love their organization. They‘re enriching people‘s lives and we feel honored to help them move their cause forward.”
“We believe that the hard work that ParentJobNet does really helps the community,” added Doolan. “They do a lot of good things for the community and we want to be part of their future."


The Marketing That Makes Fabletics Special
Most people know that following the crowd is something that humans are generally used to doing. Because of this, the Fabletics company knows that they can do more to help people and that they can experience more in the situations that they have helped their clients out with. They use the power of the crowd to help them grow and that is something that many other businesses could do if they continue to help others out with the things that they are doing. It has helped people to have a more positive outlook on Fabletics and on the things that they are doing to make their business better.
Even when Fabletics first began selling clothes, they knew that they could help people out and show them different things that they would be able to enjoy in the situations that they were helping people out with. The company knows a lot about the business and they also know that they can do more with the business so that they will be doing more for other people. All of this is what has shown them the different options that they need and has given them the chance to experience more with their business so that they can keep growing and getting better.
The Huffington Post took notice of the things that Fabletics was doing and they realized that the company was innovative with the ideas that they had. They wanted the company to get better and wanted to ensure that people would be able to enjoy it but they also knew that they had to have a positive company so that they would be making things better for everyone. Despite the fact that Fabletics is a relatively new company even Huffington Post likes to do business with and deal with so that they can help other people out with the issues that they are having.
Even when Fabletics did not have the experience that they do now, they were doing different things to help their customers out. They have always relied on good customer service and Forbes knew that when they talked about how Kate Hudson was helping the company. They realized that she was a good ambassador and that she could do a lot to help the company out. They also knew that she was doing a lot to make the company better so that others could see the differences that the company had on people who were in different situations.
Out of everything that Fabletics has done, perhaps the Style Quiz is their most innovative. They try to help people find the perfect outfits by giving them the Style Quiz to take. They show them what they can choose from and then they pick the outfits that people have based on the things that they are doing. All of this helps the company to grow and gives them the chance to show off the things that they are doing so that their customers can get the best service available in that type of industry.


THE police have launched investigations into an alleged plot by unnamed opposition leaders and retired army generals planning to assassinate Government leaders spearheading the fight against corruption.
Inspector-General of Police Martin Malama told the PF government controlled Times of Zambia that the police would not condone criminality and lawlessness. He said people that were plotting criminality and lawlessness would face the full wrath of the law. He said the police would safeguard the country against any external and internal threats against the country. “The police will ensure that the country continues to enjoy the peace it has been enjoying and I want to categorically state that the country is safe,” he said.
Dr Malama, however, assured that the country was safe for both local and foreign investments. He said the people in the country would continue to enjoy the protection of the police service. He said the police received various threats against their lives from some citizens and it was their obligation to investigate such allegations and that those to be found wanting would be prosecuted by the courts of law.
Defence Minister Geoffrey Mwamba told the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) on Wednesday that some opposition leaders and ex-generals were plotting to assassinate Government leaders that were spearheading the fight against corruption. Mr Mwamba said security agencies were trailing these people.


Some 350 million euros to help 14 million people is what the UN has said it needs to help Pakistan’s flood victims.
It has launched a major aid appeal to deal with the worst natural disaster in the nation’s history.
For those affected, the humanitarian relief cannot come quick enough.
“Our village was destroyed by the flood water, we have been on the roadside for the past 12 days, we need food and tents but we haven’t received anything,” one victim said.
Clean water, food and shelter remain the top priorities.
There has been criticism that the international response has been sluggish compared to other disasters, but the UN explained the scale of the disaster had overwhelmed authorities.
UN aid spokesman Maurizio Giuliano said: “I know that some people have said that the response has not been as quick as we hoped; and of course it is impossible in a situation like this to deliver tents to 14 million people – those homeless, as well as those who have been evacuated – within a matter of one or two days.”
The heavy monsoon rains have fallen across large swathes of Pakistan from the northern mountains to the southern province of Sindh.
Countless villages, roads and bridges have all been washed away while crops and livestock have also been lost.
The intense downpour has come at a time when the government is struggling with a faltering economy and a brutal war against the Taliban.


Ramya Mani, an American citizen currently living in Chennai, spoke in detail about the early voting process for the presidential elections in the US she took part in (through mail-in ballot system), even though she was in India.
She also spoke about the other elections taking place alongside the presidential polls.
She shared a few interesting points about the mail-in ballot system, particularly the lack of secrecy over the vote casted and a special disclaimer that mentioned the same.
Ramya also said she was from Illinois, which is one of the three major Democrat strongholds in the country, and firmly believed every single vote mattered in bringing about a change in power.
Listen to the podcast to know more about ramya’s polling experience.


(MENAFN- UkrinForm) Ukraine's defense forces are advancing in the Bakhmut direction in Donetsk retion, according to Deputy Defense Minister Hanna Maliar.
The official broke the news on Telegram , Ukrinform reports.
“We have good news,” the deputy minister wrote, posting a flexing emoji and a Ukrainian flag after writing the word Andriivka, which is a settlement in Donetsk region. She noted at the same time that the situation is difficult and volatile, calling on everyone to "cross fingers." Read also: Wallace sees logic in Ukraine attacking Russia's Black Sea Fleet
She added that Ukraine's forces are“moving forward” in the Bakhmut direction.
“On the northern flank, the enemy is trying to recapture lost positions. And in the south, we are making good progress. The main battles continue in the Andriivka, Kurdiumivka, and Klishchiivka districts,” the report reads.
The report has been updated in relation to Hanna Maliar's statement on the situation in Andriivka, edited on her Telegram.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


(Image source from: npr.org)
Italy has been cautioned that the country is likely still just two weeks away from seeing the deadly disease reach its peak, as cautioned by a top infectious disease expert on Thursday. The caution has been made with the bulk of the residents of Italy being on the coronavirus lockdown as several people are being infected by the deadly novel coronavirus.
Dr. Massimo Galli who is the head of the unit of the infectious disease has told to ABC News, at the overwhelmed Sacco Hospital in Milan that the hospital has been receiving new patients who are suffering from the deadly novel coronavirus, for every five minutes and that the facility is reaching a point of “complete saturation.”
Dr. Massimo Galli has added saying that the patients may increase for another week or two and that the country could witness the infection being spread for up to four more weeks.
It has also been said that although new patients who are infected by the deadly novel coronavirus are being admitted for every five minutes to the Sacco Hospital which is said to be one of the largest medical centers in Italy, the patients who have been treated and are virus- free are also being discharged every two or three hours.
The doctor has also said that the hospital is experiencing a complete saturation of beds due to which the hospital is getting close to not be able to accept new patients and therefore the administration of the hospital has been seeking alternative buildings for treating the patients.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the coronavirus as a global pandemic, on Wednesday as more than 120,000 people across the globe have been tested positive as being infected by the deadly novel coronavirus.
The officials of Italy have said that the number of people with confirmed cases of being infected by the deadly novel coronavirus is said to be at least 12,462 with more that 1,016 deaths being caused due to being infected by the disease as of Thursday afternoon.
Italy is said to be the hardest hit in Europe and is said to be the second following China in the number of cases of people being infected by the deadly novel COVID-19.
Guiseppe Conte who is the Prime Minister of Italy has taken a dramatic step on Monday which was to institute the lockdown of millions of residents and the ones particularly which are in the region of Lombardy which is said to include Milan.
The Prime Minister had made all the educational establishments to be closed and the businesses to shut down, with the exception of pharmacies and grocery stores. Italy is said to be on a complete lockdown in order to curb the spread of the deadly novel coronavirus in the country.
It has been recorded that 15,113 number of people have been infected by the deadly novel coronavirus in Italy and the number of deaths being caused due to getting infected by the virus is said to be 1,016 in number.
Currently the deadly coronavirus which has been officially named as COVID-19 has infected 135,116 people across the globe and 4,990 deaths have been recorded as being caused by getting infected by the deadly novel COVID-19.
By Shrithika Kushangi


(MENAFN- Emirates News Agency (WAM))
SHARJAH, 23rd January, 2022 (WAM) -- Sharjah Economic Development Department 'SEDD' organised 'Green Investment' workshop in cooperation with Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
This workshop aimed at achieving the national sustainability agenda and sustainable development goals in the country.
The workshop discussed 'Green Investment' concept, which is a new model of fast-growing economic development based on knowledge of environmental economics. It was done in order to introduce legislation aimed at attracting investment-financing opportunities in projects related to energy, environment and climate change to support global sustainable development.
Commenting on that, Sultan Abdullah bin Hadda Al Suwaidi, SEDD Chairman, emphasised on the role played by the Department in supporting the national sustainability agenda and green investment in a way that enhances the economic growth of the country. Such thing is done through the initiatives that SEDD is keen to provide in the field of sustainable investment.
Also, he clarified that Sharjah continuously seeks to support and encourage green investment related to education, technology and innovation as one of the new models of rapid economic development. Such thing is based mainly on good knowledge of the environment. Likely, it is considered one of the most important objectives to promote economic growth while maintaining environmental sustainability.
Al Suwaidi pointed out that such workshops come as a continuation of the awareness initiatives that SEDD focuses to offer, with the aim of spreading awareness of sustainability standards and the importance of their application.
He added that Sharjah has set an ambitious goal of relying on a diversified and innovative knowledge-based economy. Also, due to the global trends to confront climate change, this time is the best to take action to promote green and sustainable development projects.
Khalfan Al Herathi, Director of SEDD Branches, said that the Department aims to highlight the green investment concept and its role to achieve sustainable development goals in the emirate, in addition to focusing on renewable and clean energy solutions.
He added that the workshop also provides a distinct platform to promote cooperation between local and federal government agencies to improve sustainable development.
Moreover, Al Herathi stated that green investment provides practical opportunities to achieve economic growth by focusing on innovation in the field of clean technology, promoting investments and seeking solutions based on natural resources.
In addition, he explained that benefiting from advanced technology that promotes sustainable development is an essential aspect of the economic diversification strategy adopted by UAE in general and Sharjah in particular.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


In his first official engagement at the Prime Minister’s Breakfast in Port Moresby, O’Neill said the government will continue to work closely with the business community.
He admitted that while there will be policy reforms, they will not introduce policies that will harm that investment confidence in the country.
O’Neill highlighted the foreign exchange issues which currently affect many businesses and companies.
He said they have total confidence in the Bank of PNG in handling the issue and will continue to liaise with the business community regarding the problem.
He also highlighted key aspects of the Alotau Accord, stressing the Government's focus to agriculture and tourism, which will be made priorities in this Parliament.
A supplementary budget will be handed down soon and O’Neill said there won't be any tax reforms that will affect the people and business community.
Regulatory arms however, will be urged to enforce compliances, mainly tax to ensure those not keeping their end of the deal to pay tax to the state.
The breakfast was attended by heads of the national and multinational companies in Papua New Guinea.


The controversial Benue State anti-open grazing law has taken off amidst complaints by cattle dealers that their business is on the verge of collapse because of the new law.
Some officials of the Cattle Dealers Association of Nigeria said that the law failed to differentiate between herdsmen and cattle dealers, adding that action had consequently affected the business of cattle dealers.
Alhaji Mustapha Aliyu, the chief of the main cattle market in Makurdi, said that cattle dealers in the market had lost over 10 cattle, excluding the calves.
“The cattle have no water to drink, no food for them. The situation is particularly harrowing for the pregnant ones that are about to deliver. Most of the dead ones are the pregnant cows who couldn’t cope with the situation,’’ he said.
He said that the cattle were going through tough times, adding that if nothing was done to salvage the situation on time, the cattle would all perish.
Aliyu alleged that a member of his association was arrested in the Gbajimba neighbourhood for flouting the law, adding that he was later released after paying some fine.
He said that 10 other cattle locations in the state were sealed by members of vigilante groups and moaned that hoodlums had taken undue advantage of the law to extort money from herdsmen and cattle dealers.
He noted that the vast lands allocated to the cattle dealers during the administration of ex-Gov. George Akume were encroached upon, adding that the lands had shrunk from 113 hectares to only 12 hectares.
Another official, Suleiman Ahmad, said that top government officials had brought their cattle to the market for rearing at one time or the other.
He said that some of the officials were even members of the Gov. Samuel Ortom’s administration.
Ahmad wondered why the government failed to consider the interests of cattle dealers when the law was being conceived, saying that cattle dealers were not herdsmen but businessmen who had contributed a lot to the growth of the state’s economy.
He said that the market had a population of about 5,000 cattle, with over 200 cattle owners.
Ahmad said that the law would destroy all the cattle and make the cattle owners to lose their livelihood.
He recalled that the cattle market was established by the Federal Government during the tenure of the Akume-administration between 1999 and 2007.
Another member of the association, Yusuf Mohammed, said that the cost of keeping cattle in a ranch might be too excessive for those involved in the cattle trade.
He said that the government’s decision to include trade cattle in the open range cattle grazing prohibition law was aimed at destroying the business of cattle dealers.
However, Mr George Ibese, the Commandant of the Vigilante Group in Benue, denied the claims that some cattle markets were closed, saying that the vigilantes only went to the markets to explain the law to the dealers.
He also denied the allegation that a cattle dealer was arrested and ordered to pay a fine.
He, however, conceded that three herdsmen from Shendam, who were passing through the state, were arrested by the vigilantes and handed over the police.


-Chikankhata district agricultural members of staff were yesterday officially introduced to Chieftainess Mwenda.
Speaking on behalf of the new officers, Chikankata District Agricultural Coordinator (DACO), Anderson Mutinta, said the officers were ready to work and bring development to the newly created district of Chikankata.
Mr Mutinta also highlighted issues of accommodation and road to the district office as the most challenges that the new staff will face and requested the chieftainess to assist in any way possible.
Meanwhile, Chieftainess Mwenda thanked the officers for the visit and stated that she was willing to support development in Chikankata disitrict.
The tradition al leader said she had written a project proposal to government for a factory to be established in the area that will be processing and adding value to potatoes which are extensively grown and doing well in the area in terms of yield.
She added that a milling factory was another project that was proposed in order for the district to produce its own mealie meal from the excellent harvest of maize.
The chieftainess also appealed to government to help develop the district by building a college of agriculture to motivate local farmers.
She noted that she was a lay person where agriculture was concerned, but was willing to assist in finding solutions to problems the district will encounter.


Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal Khan has said measures are being taken for restructuring the Police and Levies on modern lines to improve the law and order in the province.
Talking to the media at the Central Police Office in Quetta, Jam Kamal said that providing maximum facilities and convenience to the people is the prime responsibility of the government.
He said that the establishment of the Data and Communication Center is an important step towards digital servicing of Police.
The Chief Minister further said that a surveillance system will be started in 29 districts of the province.
Source: Radio Pakistan


Eskomos earn basketball’s top prize
MINNEAPOLIS—Jacob Lindstrom’s layup inside was his only score Saturday, but the senior center’s two points were a fitting finish to a career spent helping Esko achieve its first-ever state boys basketball championship.
Are you a newspaper subscriber but you don't have a Digital Access account yet? https://secure.forumcomm.com/?publisher_ID=40&event=subscriber/lookup.
You will need your subscription account number and phone number. Not sure if you have an account? Email us at email@example.com and we can help you.


(MENAFN- Trend News Agency)
BAKU, Azerbaijan, Nov. 30
Deputy Foreign Minister of Russia Andrey Rudenko met with the Italian Ambassador Giorgio Starace on November 30, Trend reports referring to the ministry.
'The sides conducted a thorough exchange of views on the situation in the South Caucasus in the context of the talks between the leaders of Russia, Azerbaijan and Armenia held in Sochi on November 26, 2021 [for discussing the implementation of the trilateral statement of Nov. 10, 2020, following the Second Karabakh War],” the ministry said.
'Both sides expressed interest in an early stabilization of the situation in the South Caucasus in order to ensure the security and economic development of the region,' added the ministry.
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


PSivida Corp. secures Poland marketing nod for eye disease treatment
pSivida Corp. ( NASDAQ:PSDV) has been granted marketing authorisation for its ILUVIEN eye disease treatment in Poland.
This marks the completion of the latest round of European Union authorisations with the treatment for vision impairment associated with diabetic macular edema now approved in 17 countries.
ILUVIEN is currently being sold in the U.S. UK Germany and Portugal.
pSivida is entitled to 20 percent of net profits of ILUVIEN sales by its licensee on a country-by-country quarter-by-quarter basis.
Proactive Investors Australia is the market leader in producing news articles and research reports on ASX emerging companies with distribution in Australia UK North America and Hong Kong / China.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Iraq's total coronavirus cases jump to 124
(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) BAGHDAD, March 15 (KUNA) -- Iraqi health ministry said Sunday number of coronavirus cases nationwide jumped to 124, an increase of 14 from a day earlier.
The ministry added in a statement the new cases were registered in Baghdad, Maysan, Al-Najaf, Diyala and Diwaniya.
Meanwhile, The Iraqi government announced a curfew in Baghdad and suspension of international flights as of Tuesday.
A government spokesman said the curfew would extend until March 24.
The government also decided to suspend work at state institutions with the exception of security and health departments, as well as movement of goods.
Iraq's Kurdistan province said five people have been tested positive for the virus to increase total cases to 34. (end)
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


Bolcit Barshep, the Managing Director, Anista Marketing and Events Limited, one of the organisers of the ongoing Jos trade fair, has said that seven countries are among other exhibitors taking part in the fair.
Barshep told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Jos that international exhibitors came from countries that include Pakistan, Indian, Egypt, Mali, Ghana and Sudan to participate in the fair.
She further revealed that the exhibitors were legal immigrants who have been certified by SON and NAFDAC.
Barshep said that the major products on exhibition by the foreigners were mostly kitchen equipment, health and food supplements, fabrics, clothing and fashion items and perfumes.
She expressed the desire that the fair would help strengthen bilateral relationships between the participating countries and Nigeria and also expose them to the culture of the people on the Plateau.
According to her, most of the exhibitors have hired the services of the local youths to help in the sale of their products which will in turn boost the internally generated revenue of the state.
She however called on citizens to come out en masse to patronise the fair which has affordable products which were of unique nature.


Ruto calls for vigilance from Parliament, county assemblies
Deputy President William Ruto has called on Parliament and county assemblies to remain vigilant and steadfast in their mandate of budgeting and passage of necessary legislation.
Speaking during the virtual conference on Covid-19 bringing together the national and county governments, Ruto said it is through the timely response by the Legislature that both national and county governments were able to respond efficiently and effectively through budget approval and passing of required legislation.
“I, however, urge them to remain vigilant and steadfast in their mandate,” Ruto who has been critical on how Covid-19 funds have been utilised said during the zoom address which was however cut short due to a technical hitch.
The DP also hailed development partners for the unceasing support and flexibility that has seen resources previously allocated to other sectors quickly redirected into providing the much-needed support towards strengthening the health care infrastructure in the country during the pandemic.
Ruto, who has been conspicuously absent in previous meetings between President Uhuru Kenyatta and governors over the Covid-19 pandemic thanked social institutions including churches, local administration, Non-governmental organization for the role they have played by among others disseminating information as well as providing direct support to the most vulnerable.
“Their work is a testimony of what we can achieve when we work together. These institutions have been on the forefront in disseminating which is key towards passing information, especially to those affected disproportionately by the pandemic” said Ruto.
He however noted that despite the gains made, Covid-19 still presents an uncertain future for not just Kenya but the world at large, saying that it will call on Kenyans to think futuristically and begin to put in place mechanism that will as much as possible enable Kenyans to adopt to the new normal with as minimal disruption to their way of life as possible.
“This means that a reactive approach towards addressing such public health challenges is not sustainable.
There are skills; technologies; resources and materials needed to effectively mitigate against such threats and emergencies,” he said.
Ruto said the pandemic had taught Kenyans the need to improve the health sector adding that the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) would come in handy in this aspect.
He said there was need for the country to come up with targeted interventions to cushion the economy from shocks and enormous effects of “this extra-ordinary devastating global tragedy.”
“These interventions must be aimed at giving impetus to the economy and ensuring the security of jobs as well as provide some certainty for both employees and their employers,” said the DP.


Reitan: Trash talking, ordinances define requirements
In recent months three City of West Fargo sanitation workers were injured on the job while handling garbage collection. One worker was sprayed in the face and upper body with a mild acid solution when a container was compressed during the collection process. Two other workers were injured while lifting containers which exceeded the weight limits set by ordinance.
Are you a newspaper subscriber but you don't have a Digital Access account yet? https://secure.forumcomm.com/?publisher_ID=40&event=subscriber/lookup.
You will need your subscription account number and phone number. Not sure if you have an account? Email us at email@example.com and we can help you.


The vigilante group known as the Yansakai has surrendered 500 guns to Governor Bello Matawalle as part of efforts to accept the peace process of the state government.
Presenting the weapons to the governor at the Government House, the leader of the group, said they were ready to go with Matawalle’s peace process because he was more serious than the previous administration that recruited them.
“Your Excellency, we are assuring you that as from today, we have totally surrendered and all those who have yet to surrender their weapons will do so immediately,” he stated.
According to him, the group has over 30,000 members across the state, who are ready to surrender their weapons.
He had also called on the repentant Fulani to also surrender their weapons for peace to reign in the state.
“We are also appealing to you to compel the Fulani to stop attacking us and also surrender their weapons as we did,” he told the governor.
-KISS BREAKS NEWS


According to a report by regional newspaper Região Sul around 100 vehicles took part in the go slow drive along the En125 on December 8 as a direct protest against the tolls that are still in place on the A22 motorway.
The controversial tolls were officially introduced on December 8, 2011 by the Portuguese government after months of speculation followed by further months of delays in bringing in the new toll system on the SCUT road.
Head of the group against the tolls, João Vasconcelos, told Portuguese news agency Lusa: “The protest was staged to show that we continue to struggle against the tolls on the A22. We consider these tolls to be unjust and that they are also contributing to the current poor state of the economy in the Algarve region.”
He added: “Not only have the tolls lead to increased economic problems, they have also led to an increased number of accidents on the EN125, some of which have resulted in fatalities.”
The slow protest of cars travelled between Quatro Estradas and Fonte de Boliquime, one of the busiest stretches of the EN125, with the cars stopping at two symbolic points along the road where there had been accidents involving deaths on the road.
João Vasconcelos said that it was very important to highlight the loss of life of people who had died on the EN125 and for these people to be remembered.
The commission of users against the tolls on the A22 have declared that they will continue to fight against the tolls on the A22 and they added that they had several plans in place to challenge the government and the tolls on the motorway.
No details of what the plans of the group are were revealed but they promised that several different surprise actions would be taking place in the coming months.
The commission also intends to raise awareness among various entities in the Algarve so that all the different people in the Algarve who are effected by the tolls can work together to challenge the government and the tolls on the A22 in the Algarve.
Since the introduction of tolls on the A22 last year the amount of traffic using the motorway has dropped significantly while the number of cars using the free alternative, the EN125 has increased massively.
The amount payable by users driving along the A22 has been reduced by the government but those against the tolls do not consider this to be a step far enough to help people in the Algarve.
The tolls on the A22 are also considered to be having a negative impact on tourism in the Algarve, an industry that is vital for the region, especially during the summer months.


Acer's U.S. subsidiary, Acer America, will focus more on sales to small- and medium-sized businesses, the company said in a statement, noting its sales to business customers soared 63 percent last year, the Associated Press reported.
Acer America has lost more than $200 million in the past decade. Its losses amounted to $71 million in 1997 and $50 million in 1998. The parent company has recently been on the upswing, posting record sales late last year. (See related story.)
Acer's Vice President Peng Chin-pin said the company is expected to retain its place as one of the world's top 10 personal computer makers by tapping the U.S. business computer market and with stronger marketing efforts in Europe and Asia, AP reported.


Rarely has an election seemed to have clearer consequences for state government than the one just completed.
The first result is that Republicans consolidated the power they had won in 2010. Despite some key Democratic victories, 53 percent of Americans live in states where Republicans control both the legislature and the governorship.
Republicans took state policy in a more conservative direction during the last two years, and fought back against President Obama's policies. Nothing that happened November 6 will prevent them from doing the same thing again in the next two years. If the biggest obstacle to the president's second-term agenda is the Republican-controlled U.S. House, the second biggest obstacle will be Republican power in the states.
The other major result was that Republicans won more power in states that were already Republican, while Democrats won more power in states that were already Democratic.


Funding assistance to include government schools
Students attending government-run schools will also get a portion of a $14 million tala Government assistance to private, mission and early-childhood learning educational institutions.
This was confirmed by the Minister of Education, Sports and Culture (MESC), Loau Solamalemalo Keneti Sio, while speaking to the media yesterday.
The funding assistance that was announced last week for the private, mission and early childhood learning schools will also include government-run schools.
Loau stated that the assistance was given by the Government to assist the education system, due to it being a priority for the Government.
He also added that the Government’s investment in education is to promote quality education. It has been two years since the Government funded the One Government Grant, which was previously supported by the New Zealand and Australian governments.


Chef Jess’ must-haves
The holiday season is almost here, and for many that means the added stress of last-minute dinner guests, extended visits from family and impromptu parties.
Are you a newspaper subscriber but you don't have a Digital Access account yet? https://secure.forumcomm.com/?publisher_ID=40&event=subscriber/lookup.
You will need your subscription account number and phone number. Not sure if you have an account? Email us at firstname.lastname@example.org and we can help you.


By Tracey Khan – Drakes
[www.inewsguyana.com] – Mental health and Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) will be further integrated into the primary health sector and placed on the front burner, according to Health Minister Dr. Bheri Ramsarran. He explained that two national action plans for mental health and NCDs will be launched later in the year.
According to him, the Ministry has gone a far way in its preparations for a NCD commission and they are looking to implement programmes at the grass root level that will be more easily accessible by the population, including mental health services.
As such, the Ministry will be giving health centers and other health care facilities a number of equipment to conduct basic testing.
He further explained that training of personnel to promptly recognize and deal with persons who have mental health issues at the community level is another area of priority by the ministry.
Ramsarran emphasized that suicide is everybody’s business and noted that the ministry will not shy away from its responsibilities in this regard.
Just recently there have been calls from civil society for government to place more emphasis on persons with mental health challenges and more resources into trained personnel.


(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
SRINAGAR: Moazzam Rashid, Haider Hussain, Inayat Jehangir and Asif Nowsheri on Friday qualified for the semifinals of the ongoing Srinagar Open Tennis Championship 2021 being held at the Gindun Sports Complex, Rajbagh here.
Three of the semifinalists won their matches in straight sets, with Moazzam (vs Rouf Mir), Asif (vs Tahafuz Illahi) and Inayat (vs Jamil Mir) defeating their opponents by identical scoreline of 6-0, 6-2. Meanwhile, Haider beat Mudasir 6-3, 6-1.
The singles semifinals will be played on Saturday at 3:30 PM. The final of the tournament is scheduled to be played on Sunday.
The Doubles event of the Championship has also reached its semifinal stage, and will see the teams of Moazzam and Haider take on Jamil and Tahafuz in the first semifinal, while Tufail Bhat and Inayat will take on Danish and Wahab in the second. The final will be played on Sunday, as well.
The Srinagar Open Tennis Championship 2021 is being organised by District Lawn Tennis Association, Srinagar.
Sixty round-robin matches were played in both singles and doubles events with two top teams or players qualifying for the knock out stages.
Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


By Bukar Bolori
Chairmen of local governments in the country have been advised to involve residents of their council in the budgetary processes.
Speaking at the weekend during the
Abuja Municipal Area Council
Town Hall Meeting on Participatory Budgeting organized by ActionAid Nigeria, the chairman of the council, Hon. Abdullahi Candido said this gives everyone in the council a sense of belonging and reduce the pressure on local government administrators.
Candido, who disclosed that he was initially wary of allowing participatory budgeting in Abuja Municipal Area Council, said as he later found out that the process has brought him closer to the people and have made him to know that the expectations of the people from government are moderate.
He said he has also come to know that when people are made to determine what government should do for them, they come all out to contribute their quota towards the success of government.
He said: “Participatory budgeting gives an opportunity for the people to be involved in taking decision they want. It will reduce criticism and prioritization will come into play.”
Candido urged other councils in the country to learn from the experience of AMAC who introduced participatory budgeting two years ago and has got testimonies to give.
Also speaking on the exercise, the Director of Programme, ActionAid Nigeria, Suwaiba Dankobo said: the exercise was part of open governance, which creates a straight and open way to administer a council.
She said the process helps in further bonding the political leaders and the people and further assist the government in getting needed information and support that will go a long way in delivering on their mandate.
She said though the entire process is still in its early stage and still yet to be introduce all over Nigeria, she promised that ActionAid will continue to support it and get to bring many councils into it.
At the town hall meeting in Jiwa over the weekend are people from Gwagwa, Jiwa, Gui, Gwarimpa wards of Abuja Municipal Area Council, the process has earlier been initiated in the eight other wards of the council.


ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WKBW) — Polymer Conversions has been working around the clock to do their part in the battle against COVID-19. They’ve been open and manufacturing parts throughout the pandemic.
“We run a typical three shifts on Monday through Friday,” chief operating officer Ben Harp said. “We’re fortunate that what we make here are critical to life application devices.”
A portion of their regular output was already geared towards respiratory devices such as inhalers. But over the last month, parts for those, among others, have become the top priority.
“The really big change was that we had to move a few things that affected COVID-19 to the frontlines,” project engineer Cristina Cisneros said. “And we had to move a few things that don’t affect COVID-19 to the back. So it’s just job priority at this point.”
Another priority that has come to the forefront is sanitation and safety on site. Employees are wearing masks and washing their hands hourly as they do their part to arm healthcare workers in the fight against COVID-19.


PANAJI: The Congress party has demanded that there should be a thorough probe by central agencies like Enforcement Directorate, Income Tax and Central Bureau of Investigation into the mining scam, and role of politicians as also that of the mining companies, which should be monitored by the Supreme Court.
Addressing a press conference, on Thursday afternoon, the Congress Legislature Party spokesperson, Mr Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco, told reporters that people of the state want that Rs 35,000 crore “looted” by unscrupulous elements should be recovered, even as he said that if the Chief Minister, Mr Manohar Parrikar, was not in a position to recover the amount then he should quit the post.
The Congress party has also condemned the outburst of the Chief Minister against the Supreme Court on Wednesday (October 24) and said that rather than having faith in the judiciary Mr Parrikar was behaving like an employee of mining companies and uttering statements tutored to him.
The Justice Khandeparkar committee has been formed to selectively punish those marked by the ruling party, he added.
Stating that the Congress party was supportive and sympathetic of the mine workers, truckers and other dependents on the industry, Mr Lourenco said that government should rather appeal for an early relief rather than criticising the apex court and complicating the matters for the affected people as well as the state.
He said that the opposition leader, Mr Pratapsing Rane, has already sought a probe by the apex court into the Shah Commission report and that Mr Parrikar had no right to point accusing fingers either at Mr Rane or Mr Digambar Kamat, who preceded him.
He also said that Mr Parrikar, who was Chief Minister between 2000 and 2004, could not absolve himself of wrong doings including matters relating to condonation of delay.
Referring to the announcement made by the Chief Minister about demarcation of one kilometre buffer zone around the wildlife sanctuaries and lone national park in the state with immediate effect, Mr Lourenco said that Mr Parrikar should come out with the list of companies that were located within the 0-1 kilometre zone and tell which companies he was trying to protect.
Mr Lourenco further stated that this was not the first time that Mr Parrikar had criticised judiciary and said that while he was Chief Minister earlier he had criticised the High Court and later tendered apology.
On the statement of the Chief Minister that people of the state should trust him, the CLP spokesman said that this itself proved that Mr Parrikar doubted himself and as such was asking people to have trust him.


‘Covid situation under control but can’t be complacent’: Arvind Kejriwal
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has said that the Covid situation in the capital has improved. He said that while predictions were made that Delhi would have about 1 lakh cases by June end, at the moment Delhi only has 26,000 active cases. Kejriwal also said that the number of daily cases have also come down by about half in the last week. The Delhi CM warned that people should not become complacent and continue to follow guidelines. Watch the full video for more details.


BP Oil Leak
Asked for the Prime Minister’s view on the ongoing situation surrounding the oil leak, the Prime Minister’s Spokesman (PMS) told the assembled press that the Prime Minister’s view was that this was an environmental tragedy and understandably, many people were angry about what had happened and very emotional too. She said it was a matter for BP to do what it could to try and bring an end to this problem.
From the UK’s point of view, we were in regular contact with the company and also the US administration and through the Department for Energy and Climate Change, we had offered to assist in any way we could.
Put that the UK Government might share concerns over the language being used by the White House, the PMS said that it was understandable that the people directly affected by the oil spill were angry and emotional about the situation, as well as the broader impact the spill was having.
Asked if the Prime Minister agreed with the view Lord Tebbit had put forward, the PMS replied that it was important to remember that BP was a global company. The impact as a whole would be broader than just the environmental impact.
On whether the Prime Minister would be discussing the language used by the US administration with the President, the PMS said that President Obama was the first leader to speak to the Prime Minister when he walked into No10 and relations continued to be good. They would continue to have regular phone calls and the PMS added that there would be a phone call soon to discuss a broad range of issues, including BP.
Asked whether the Prime Minister thought that the President was being emotional or over-emotional on this, the PMS said that there were many people who felt angry about what had happened, but she would not comment specifically on what the President had said.
When asked how well the Prime Minister thought BP had handled the situation, the PMS replied that there were lessons to be learnt, but what was important now was that the situation was dealt with as quickly as possible.
Asked if the Prime Minister thought that undue pressure was being applied to BP, the PMS said that as well as this being an environmental tragedy, the impact could be a lot broader than that. So it was important that BP found a solution as soon as possible.
Asked in what sense the tragedy was broader than its environmental elements, the PMS replied that she had been clear on the fact that this could be broader than just an environmental impact in the locality of the Gulf of Mexico.
On whether the Prime Minister had sympathy with British pensioners who could be affected by the situation, the PMS said she would not get into commenting on that; it was a matter for the company. Asked if it was helpful if other politicians commented on it, the PMS said that it was a matter for them.
Asked if representatives from the UK Government had spoken to the US administration about the kind of language being used, the PMS said that she was not aware of any specific interventions, but there were ongoing conversations at an official level as was routine.
Asked if the Prime Minister had spoken to President Obama specifically on this issue, the PMS said that people should expect a readout of any such conversation, adding that there had been no readout yet.
Asked when a call between the Prime Minister and the President would take place, the PMS said that there was likely to be a call at the weekend. It would be a routine call and they would discuss a range of issues.
Deputy Prime Minister
Asked what role the Deputy Prime Minister would play while representing the UK abroad, the PMS said that the Deputy Prime Minister was a senior representative of the Government and people would expect him to fill that role abroad on occasion.
Asked whether the money pledged by the Prime Minister to help combat IEDs was new, the PMS said that it was additional money that was new for that purpose.


(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)
Published: Wed 28 Sep 2022, 1:40 PM
Pakistan's highly rated teenage fast bowler Naseem Shah was taken to hospital with an infection and will miss the fifth Twenty20 international against England later on Wednesday, said a cricket board spokesman.
The 19-year-old's availability for the rest of the seven-match series will be decided after assessing his medical reports.
'Naseem was taken to hospital on Tuesday night with a viral infection and will not be available for Wednesday's match,' a Pakistan Cricket Board spokesman said.
Naseem played the first match of the series and went for 41 runs in his four wicket-less overs.
The series is tied 2-2 after four matches in Karachi. The remaining three are in Lahore.
England are on their first tour of Pakistan for 17 years.
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.


The G20 countries have pledged more than $ 21 billion to fight the Corona virus, a group statement said early Saturday morning.
"The G20 and the invited countries have led global efforts to support the fight against the Corona Virus pandemic, which has resulted, to date, in pledges of more than $ 21 billion to support global health financing," the statement said.
"These contributions will be allocated to diagnostic tools, vaccines, therapies and research and development work," the statement added.
In April, the group called on all countries, NGOs, charities, and the private sector to help bridge a financial gap of more than $ 8 billion to combat the Covid-19 pandemic.
Saudi Arabia, which currently chairs the Group of Twenty, has pledged $ 500 million to support global efforts to combat the pandemic. She said that she will allocate $ 150 million to the Alliance for Epidemic Preparation, $ 150 million to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization, and $ 200 million to other competent international and regional health and international organizations and programs.


Captain Doug Beattie, who was a Regimental Sergeant Major in the Royal Irish Regiment, said it needs to be recognised that Iraq has “suffered terribly”.
The 50-year-old from Portadown in County Armagh said the Chilcot report “spreads the jam of blame” across many people and organisations.
Mr Beattie, now an Ulster Unionist Party MLA, recalled troops being “woefully unprepared” but “in absolutely no doubt whatsoever” that Saddam Hussein’s regime had weapons of mass destruction.
“One of the things which did surprise me slightly is that there was a genuine belief on the part of the intelligence service, and Tony Blair, and the Cabinet, and the Government — a genuine belief that there were weapons of mass destruction, and I don’t know where that really comes from.”
However, Mr Beattie said the British Government and the British Ministry of Defence has some apologising to do: “I think still we need people to acknowledge that Iraq has suffered terribly, that we need to apologise to the Iraqi people and we need to apologise to the military families who lost loved ones and to the soldiers who fought and carry the scars,” he added.


Government sources said that some joint opposition members are in talks to join the government. According to government sources, the joint opposition members will cross if anyone from the SLFP in the government is taken to the joint opposition. Minister Mahinda Amaraweera, meanwhile, said that the SLFP will begin preparations to face the Local Government elections from this week.
A group of disgruntled Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) Parliamentarians met President Maithripala Sirisena last week and discussed their future in the government.
Deputy Minister Nimal Lanza told the Parliamentarians who met the President want to sit independently in Parliament and take independent decisions.
Lanza, who was among those who met the President, said that they would hold discussions with all SLFP members and decide on the future of the SLFP marriage with the United National Party (UNP). He said that the President was told the unity government had failed to meet the expectations of the public.
Some senior SLFP members have decided to submit a letter to President Sirisena outlining the reasons for the need to withdraw from the government. United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) General Secretary and SLFP member Mahinda Amaraweera said that no SLFP member has formally indicated they will be leaving the party.


Visitors bureau redesigns its Web presence
Winchester — The biggest lifeline the Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau has to the rest of the world is its website.
That lifeline became a little stronger Thursday when the…
To See This and Every Local Story from The Winchester Star, Click Here to Become a Subscriber!
Login to view the full story