Global Pulse

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  • US and India reach trade deal, Trump says after Modi call

    US and India reach trade deal, Trump says after Modi call

    In a landmark diplomatic breakthrough, former U.S. President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have orchestrated a comprehensive trade agreement that fundamentally reshapes economic relations between the world’s largest democracies. The arrangement, announced through Trump’s Truth Social platform, commits India to purchasing over $500 billion in American goods across energy, technology, agriculture, and coal sectors.

    The agreement eliminates the contentious 25% tariff penalty previously imposed on India for its Russian oil purchases, with the overall tariff rate on Indian goods reduced to 18% from the previous 50% peak. In return, India has committed to eliminating all trade barriers against U.S. products and will cease purchasing Russian oil, redirecting its energy procurement to American suppliers and potentially Venezuelan sources.

    This development follows closely after India’s separate trade agreement with the European Union, concluded after nearly twenty years of intermittent negotiations. Both leaders emphasized the strategic importance of the pact, with Modi expressing delight at the outcome and Trump suggesting the economic cooperation could contribute to resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

    The White House confirmed the tariff adjustments to the BBC, noting the Russian oil-linked tariffs would be dropped entirely as part of the comprehensive agreement. The deal marks a dramatic reversal from August, when U.S. tariffs on Indian goods reached 50% – the highest rate imposed on any Asian nation – causing Indian exports to the U.S. to plummet dramatically.

    Prime Modi acknowledged the agreement on social media platform X, thanking Trump ‘on behalf of the 1.4 billion people of India’ and highlighting the immense opportunities created when major economies and democracies collaborate effectively.

  • In photos: How SRK bonded with Emaar’s Mohammed Alabbar during a fashion show in Dubai

    In photos: How SRK bonded with Emaar’s Mohammed Alabbar during a fashion show in Dubai

    DUBAI – The Armani Hotel Dubai served as the epicenter of global fashion excellence on January 30th as Bollywood megastar Shah Rukh Khan received the prestigious Global Style Icon award at the Dubai Mall Global Fashion Awards. The ceremony culminated the Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion, recognizing Khan’s three-decade influence that extends far beyond cinema into international style trends.

    The event gained additional significance through Khan’s warm interaction with Mohamed Alabbar, the visionary founder of Emaar Properties and architectural mastermind behind Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa. Their meeting highlighted the deep cultural and historical connections between the Indian superstar and the United Arab Emirates, sparking widespread attention across social media platforms.

    Khan’s sartorial evolution has undergone a remarkable transformation parallel to his recent cinematic resurgence through blockbuster films ‘Pathaan’ and ‘Jawan’. Departing from traditional formal wear, the actor has embraced a more adventurous, high-fashion aesthetic that complements his newly developed action-hero physique. This style renaissance is largely attributed to celebrity stylist Shaleena Nathani, renowned for crafting Deepika Padukone’s signature looks.

    The Global Style Icon recognition arrives following Khan’s notable appearance at the Met Gala, where he demonstrated a willingness to experiment beyond conventional red carpet attire. His fashion journey now represents a blend of rugged sophistication and experimental elegance that resonates with global audiences.

  • Gaza’s Rafah crossing reopens with heavy Israeli restrictions and monitoring

    Gaza’s Rafah crossing reopens with heavy Israeli restrictions and monitoring

    The Rafah border crossing connecting Gaza and Egypt resumed operations on Monday following a nearly two-year closure after Israeli forces dismantled the transit point. This reopening marks a significant development in regional mobility under a newly implemented security arrangement.

    Israeli authorities finalized checkpoint installations within the crossing early Monday, enabling a carefully regulated flow of movement. The new protocol permits 50 Palestinians to enter Gaza from Egypt daily, while approximately 150 residents may exit the enclave each day.

    A sophisticated approval system requires all travelers to undergo security vetting with mandatory authorization from both Egyptian and Israeli authorities. European Union personnel from the EU Border Assistance Mission will administer the crossing’s operations, though Israeli forces maintain a presence in surrounding areas.

    Notably, Israeli security teams will conduct physical inspections of individuals returning to Gaza after they depart the crossing facility. Advanced surveillance measures, including facial recognition technology, will monitor departing travelers according to Israeli media reports.

    This strategically vital passage—Gaza’s sole border crossing bypassing Israeli territory—had remained sealed since May 2024 when Israeli forces assumed control. The reopening forms part of the October 10 ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States, fulfilling longstanding appeals from United Nations agencies and humanitarian organizations.

    While Hamas officials acknowledged the crossing’s reopening, they criticized Israeli-imposed restrictions as obstructive to civilian movement. Senior Hamas representative Ghazi Hamad accused Israel of deliberately complicating transit procedures.

    Concurrently, Hamas announced completion of administrative transfers to the newly formed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). This 15-member technocratic body, established under the ceasefire agreement, will oversee governance for Gaza’s 2.2 million residents under supervision of a US-chaired ‘Board of Peace’.

    The reopening offers potential relief for medical emergencies, as Israeli authorities had previously blocked healthcare delegations and essential supplies during the conflict. According to Gaza’s Government Media Office, approximately 22,000 injured individuals and patients await urgent medical evacuation, though current quota limitations suggest extended waiting periods for most seeking overseas treatment.

  • Singapore to launch space agency in response to global investment surge

    Singapore to launch space agency in response to global investment surge

    Singapore has announced the creation of its National Space Agency, scheduled to commence operations on April 1st, 2026. The groundbreaking initiative was unveiled by Tan See Leng, Minister for Energy Technology at Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, during the country’s inaugural space summit.

    The newly formed agency will serve as Singapore’s central coordinating body for space-related activities, focusing on developing and operating national space capabilities while creating supportive legislative frameworks for innovation and commercial space enterprises. This strategic move positions Singapore to leverage its existing technological strengths in advanced manufacturing, aerospace systems, micro-electronics, precision engineering, and artificial intelligence within the rapidly expanding space sector.

    Current statistics reveal Singapore’s growing space ecosystem, hosting 70 space companies employing approximately 2,000 professionals across various segments of the space value chain. The establishment of the space agency comes amid unprecedented global investment in space technology, with 2025 recording historic funding levels according to data from investment firm Seraphim Space, with further growth anticipated.

    The Singaporean government emphasized that this institutional framework will enable the nation to fully capitalize on the increasing opportunities within the global space economy, transforming the country into a significant player in the international space technology landscape.

  • Russian cargo ship captain is found guilty over North Sea tanker crash death

    Russian cargo ship captain is found guilty over North Sea tanker crash death

    In a landmark maritime trial concluding Monday, Russian captain Vladimir Motin was convicted of gross negligence manslaughter for his role in a catastrophic collision between cargo vessel Solong and U.S. oil tanker Stena Immaculate. The incident occurred March 10, 2025, in the North Sea off northeast England while both ships carried highly flammable cargo.

    The court heard how Motin, 59, from St. Petersburg, was serving as sole watch officer aboard the 130-meter Solong when it struck the anchored 183-meter U.S. military jet fuel tanker at 15.2 knots. The impact triggered an enormous blaze that burned relentlessly for eight days, consuming both vessels in a fireball visible for miles.

    Tragically, 38-year-old Filipino crew member Mark Angelo Pernia, who was working on the Solong’s bow at the moment of impact, perished instantly. His remains were never recovered from the wreckage.

    Prosecutors presented compelling evidence demonstrating Motin’s failure to execute basic safety protocols during the crisis. The Russian captain neglected to summon assistance, reduce speed, sound collision alarms, or initiate emergency stopping procedures. CCTV footage and audio recordings revealed a startling minute of silence from the bridge before impact, followed by panicked transmissions from the U.S. tanker crew reporting ‘fire, fire, fire.’

    Senior specialist prosecutor Michael Gregory characterized the incident as ‘a tragic and entirely avoidable death caused by truly, exceptionally bad negligence,’ noting it was ‘extremely fortunate that no one else was killed.’

    Rescue teams successfully evacuated 36 personnel from both vessels following the collision. The Solong was transporting alcoholic spirits and hazardous materials destined for Rotterdam, while the Stena Immaculate carried jet fuel for U.S. military operations.

    Motin, who prosecutors allege falsified accounts of the incident, will face sentencing on Thursday.

  • Disney warns of hit from flagging foreign visits

    Disney warns of hit from flagging foreign visits

    The Walt Disney Company has issued a warning regarding anticipated challenges at its American theme park operations, citing declining international visitor numbers as a primary concern. Despite this headwind, the entertainment giant maintains confidence in its domestic marketing strategies to sustain modest growth within its lucrative parks division.

    Recent data reveals a notable shift in US tourism patterns, with foreign visits declining by 2.5% in the past year—marking the first decrease since 2020. Industry analysts attribute this trend partially to geopolitical factors, including potential backlash against certain US policies. Particularly striking is the approximately 20% plunge in Canadian visitors during the first three quarters of the year, following trade-related tensions.

    The tourism industry faces additional pressure from proposed regulatory changes, including potential social media screening requirements for international travelers. A World Travel & Tourism Council survey indicates that one-third of global travelers would be less inclined to visit the US if such measures were implemented.

    Despite these challenges, Disney’s recent financial performance demonstrates resilience. Parks revenue increased by 6% year-over-year in the latest quarter, surpassing $10 billion. Company executives note that domestic bookings remain strong with a projected 5% growth trajectory for the year, while overall attendance saw a 1% increase in the most recent reporting period.

    Ampere Analysis expert Guy Bisson commented on the situation: ‘While not achieving the stellar results they might have hoped for under normal circumstances, the current performance is far from catastrophic.’

    The company’s broader financial picture showed mixed results: total quarterly revenue grew 5% to $26 billion, driven by successful film releases including Zootopia and Avatar sequels. However, profits declined nearly 6% due to increased content production and distribution costs. Investor reaction was immediately apparent as Disney shares fell 4% following the earnings announcement.

  • Cypress-smoked pork lines Guizhou shops for Spring Festival

    Cypress-smoked pork lines Guizhou shops for Spring Festival

    As the Lunar New Year approaches, storefronts throughout Tongzi county in Guizhou province have transformed into vibrant exhibitions of traditional cured pork, signaling the arrival of Spring Festival celebrations. This annual culinary tradition represents both a household staple and a cultural centerpiece for family reunions during China’s most significant holiday period.

    The distinctive Guizhou-style cured pork, a renowned southern Chinese specialty, undergoes an elaborate smoking process that yields its characteristic dark, glossy appearance. Local artisans employ cypress branches in the smoking technique, imbuing the meat with its deep coloration and distinctive savory aroma that has become synonymous with regional culinary heritage.

    Annual production cycles intensify around the winter solstice, when shops significantly ramp up their sausage stuffing and pork smoking operations to accommodate surging consumer demand. This meticulous preparation ensures patrons receive diverse flavor profiles and premium quality products for their festive gatherings. The visual spectacle of numerous smoked pork displays creates a festive atmosphere throughout the community, connecting modern celebrations to generations of culinary tradition.

    The preservation of this food preparation method demonstrates how regional customs continue to thrive within contemporary holiday practices, offering both residents and visitors an authentic taste of Guizhou’s rich cultural tapestry during the Spring Festival season.

  • Crown Princess’s son arrested for alleged assault before rape trial in Norway

    Crown Princess’s son arrested for alleged assault before rape trial in Norway

    The Norwegian royal family faces mounting scrutiny as Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, has been arrested for the fourth time in 18 months ahead of his trial on 38 criminal charges. The 29-year-old stepson of Crown Prince Haakon was remanded in custody for four weeks following Sunday’s arrest on allegations involving weapon possession and violation of a restraining order.

    Høiby’s legal troubles began in August 2024 with accusations of assaulting a former partner. He now faces charges spanning multiple serious offenses including the alleged rape of four women, drug transportation of 3.5kg marijuana, and repeated traffic violations. While admitting to some minor charges, Høiby has denied the most severe allegations against him.

    Simultaneously, Norwegians are confronting revelations about Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s extensive three-year correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein between 2011-2014. The future queen acknowledged “poor judgment” after it emerged she maintained contact through official royal channels, including a four-night stay at Epstein’s Florida residence and discussions about inappropriate wall art for her teenage son.

    Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre has implicitly criticized the crown princess’s actions, while royal commentators question the advisory failure surrounding her communications. Historian Ole-Jørgen Schulsrud-Hansen notes the fundamental distinction: “She’s never a private citizen, she’s always the crown princess.”

    The royal household has attempted to distance itself from Høiby’s case, emphasizing his status as a private citizen. Crown Prince Haakon expressed sympathy for affected women and families, calling it “a difficult time for many.” The case continues amid concerns about Høiby’s mental health and substance abuse issues, with the Oslo District Court approving extended custody to prevent reoffending during proceedings.

  • Dozens of Cambridge academics urge university to divest from arms industry

    Dozens of Cambridge academics urge university to divest from arms industry

    A significant coalition of Cambridge University academics is intensifying pressure on the institution to immediately withdraw all investments from defense and arms manufacturing companies. This development precedes a critical University Council meeting scheduled for Monday to review a commissioned report on defense sector investments.

    The controversy stems from mounting accusations against the university administration regarding what professors characterize as ‘maximal obfuscation’ concerning its £4.2 billion endowment fund. Senior faculty members report being unable to properly scrutinize these investments due to the university’s refusal to disclose specific company involvements.

    Middle East Eye has obtained statements from 29 Cambridge academics demanding both transparency and complete divestment from arms manufacturers. The movement gained momentum following prolonged pro-Palestine student encampments in 2024, where protesters specifically demanded severed financial ties with Israel and defense contractors.

    Professor Jason Scott-Warren, an English faculty member and University Council representative, criticized the administration’s investment strategy: ‘The university’s investment managers are employing the same obstruction tactics they used during fossil fuel divestment campaigns. They claim their ‘fund of funds’ model prevents disclosure of specific investments or basic ethical screening.’

    Professor Christopher Burlinson of the English faculty expressed stronger condemnation: ‘I maintain the firm conviction that Cambridge University must eliminate all arms industry investments. These financial engagements directly fund and enable repression, genocide, and ethnic cleansing.’

    The university’s endowment is managed by University of Cambridge Investment Management Limited (UCIM), which utilizes a complex ‘fund of funds’ structure that distributes investments across multiple sectors under external management. This opacity has become increasingly controversial since King’s College Cambridge became the first Oxbridge institution to divest from companies complicit in ‘the occupation of Ukraine and Palestinian territories’ last year.

    The upcoming Council meeting, attended by Vice-Chancellor Deborah Prentice, college heads, and elected representatives, represents a pivotal moment for the divestment movement. Student protesters previously agreed to dismantle their encampment contingent on the university’s commitment to review defense industry linkages.

  • Big Ticket Abu Dhabi announces Dh15-million jackpot for February draw

    Big Ticket Abu Dhabi announces Dh15-million jackpot for February draw

    Abu Dhabi’s renowned Big Ticket raffle has unveiled a substantial Dh15 million grand prize for its February promotion, setting the stage for another life-changing win following January’s record Dh30 million award to a Filipino expatriate. The live draw event scheduled for March 3 will crown one fortunate millionaire while simultaneously distributing five consolation prizes of Dh100,000 each.

    The February calendar features an expanded reward structure with four weekly electronic draws, each granting Dh50,000 to four separate winners. This month’s promotion introduces the innovative Big Win Contest, offering customers who purchase multiple tickets between February 1-24 the opportunity to attend the live draw with guaranteed cash prizes ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh150,000.

    January’s finale witnessed four Indian nationals claiming Dh50,000 each in the final weekly e-draw. Among them, Hakkim Sha Habeeb expressed initial disbelief upon missing the winning notification, later describing his overwhelming delight upon confirmation.

    Vinoth, a 38-year-old electrical supervisor with 19 years in Qatar, celebrated his first-ever raffle victory after three years of consistent participation. “This represents the happiest moment of my life,” he shared, noting his plans to divide the winnings among his group while investing further in tickets and creating special memories for his daughter.

    Abdul Rahuman, a 54-year-old Kerala native residing in Abu Dhabi for six years, initially suspected a scam before experiencing profound relief and happiness. His participation through a 22-member group exemplifies the collective approach many adopt for sustained motivation.

    Shalini Suvarna, a Mumbai-born administrative professional in Umm Al Quwain since 2008, resumed ticket purchases last year after a hiatus. Her win will facilitate debt clearance while restoring confidence in the process. “Consistency matters profoundly,” she advised, reflecting on her interrupted participation pattern.

    The Big Ticket initiative continues to demonstrate its legitimacy through transparent processes and verifiable outcomes, strengthening participant trust across the UAE expatriate community.