作者: admin

  • Sheikh Mohamed receives Russian President envoy Kirill Dmitriev

    Sheikh Mohamed receives Russian President envoy Kirill Dmitriev

    His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, held a significant diplomatic meeting on Sunday, January 25th, with Kirill Dmitriev, Special Presidential Envoy for Foreign Investment and Economic Cooperation of the Russian Federation. The high-level discussion marked an important development in UAE-Russia relations amid ongoing global tensions.

    Mr. Dmitriev conveyed formal greetings from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who expressed particular appreciation for the UAE’s strategic role in facilitating trilateral negotiations involving the United States, Russia, and Ukraine. The Emirates’ hosting of these talks demonstrates its growing influence as a neutral diplomatic intermediary seeking peaceful resolutions to international conflicts.

    The comprehensive dialogue between Sheikh Mohamed and the Russian envoy extended beyond immediate geopolitical concerns to explore substantial opportunities for enhanced bilateral cooperation. Both parties conducted thorough reviews of mutual interests across multiple sectors, with particular emphasis on economic collaboration, investment partnerships, and development initiatives that align with both nations’ strategic objectives.

    This diplomatic engagement occurs within the broader context of the UAE’s increasingly prominent role in international mediation efforts, while simultaneously pursuing its national economic diversification goals through strengthened international partnerships. The meeting underscores the Emirates’ balanced foreign policy approach that maintains constructive relationships with multiple global powers despite complex international tensions.

  • Seahawks to face Patriots in Super Bowl 60

    Seahawks to face Patriots in Super Bowl 60

    In a dramatic conclusion to the NFL conference championships, the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots secured their places in Super Bowl 60 after delivering contrasting but equally compelling victories on Sunday.

    The NFC Championship game evolved into an offensive spectacle at Seattle’s Lumen Field, where the Seahawks outlasted the Los Angeles Rams 31-27 in a back-and-forth contest. Quarterback Sam Darnold, previously winless in playoff appearances before this season, delivered three touchdown passes alongside his Rams counterpart Matt Stafford in a game that saw multiple lead changes. The Seahawks’ victory was sealed by their top-ranked defense, which made a critical goal-line stand in the final minutes, denying the Rams three attempts from inside the six-yard line.

    Meanwhile, the AFC Championship presented a stark contrast as the Patriots battled both the Denver Broncos and extreme weather conditions to claim a 10-7 victory. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye, a contender for season MVP honors, scored New England’s sole touchdown and demonstrated exceptional composure in blizzard conditions. The game’s turning point came when Broncos backup quarterback Jarrett Stidham, starting due to Bo Nix’s injury, committed two costly turnovers that New England converted into points.

    This Super Bowl matchup marks a historic rematch of the 2015 championship, where the Patriots narrowly defeated the Seahawks 28-24. For New England, this appearance extends their record to 12 Super Bowls, while Seattle seeks their second championship after claiming their only title in 2014.

    The championship games also highlighted coaching narratives, with Seattle’s Mike Macdonald and British defensive coordinator Aden Durde reaching the Super Bowl in their second season, while Patriots coach Mike Vrabel aims to become the first person to win an NFL championship as both player and head coach with the same franchise.

    Super Bowl 60 will take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, home of the San Francisco 49ers.

  • Alex de Minaur ready for Alcaraz battle at Australian Open

    Alex de Minaur ready for Alcaraz battle at Australian Open

    Australian tennis star Alex de Minaur has secured his position in the Australian Open quarterfinals for the second consecutive year, setting the stage for a monumental clash against world number one Carlos Alcaraz. The 26-year-old sixth seed advanced with a commanding 6-4, 6-1, 6-1 victory over tenth-seeded Alexander Bublik on Sunday, demonstrating formidable form with his third straight-sets win in four matches.

    The upcoming match represents one of tennis’s most daunting challenges for de Minaur, who has yet to defeat the Spanish phenomenon in their five previous encounters. This marks their first Grand Slam meeting, adding historical significance to the competition. De Minaur acknowledged the physical demands of facing Alcaraz, noting his opponent’s exceptional ability to create grueling rallies and powerful offensive plays.

    Should de Minaur triumph, he would become the first Australian since Mark Edmondson in 1976 to claim the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup, ending a five-decade drought for homegrown champions. Despite his previous six Grand Slam quarterfinal appearances without advancing further, de Minaur expressed confidence in his preparation and physical condition for the anticipated battle.

    The Australian player emphasized his focus on performance rather than public perception, stating his intention to let his tennis demonstrate his capabilities on the court. The quarterfinal matchup scheduled for Tuesday promises to test both athletes’ endurance and strategic execution at Melbourne Park.

  • Pauline Hanson addresses pro-Australia Day march as thousands join nationwide Invasion Day protests

    Pauline Hanson addresses pro-Australia Day march as thousands join nationwide Invasion Day protests

    Australia’s national holiday was marked by intense polarization as competing rallies—Invasion Day protests and March for Australia demonstrations—unfolded simultaneously in major capital cities, resulting in controversial scenes and arrests.

    In Brisbane, an Australian flag was set ablaze during an Invasion Day gathering at Queens Gardens, while in Melbourne, a statue of poet Adam Lindsay Gordon was defaced with the phrase ‘Abolish Australia.’ Meanwhile, Sydney witnessed crowds chanting ‘send them back’ and displaying placards demanding the release of Joel Davis, a prominent figure in the disbanded National Socialist Network (NSN), who is currently in remand for allegedly inciting violence against MP Allegra Spender.

    A 31-year-old man was arrested in NSW during the March for Australia rally for alleged hate speech. Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden stated that the language used ‘incited hatred towards groups in the community’ and crossed the line from free speech into unlawful conduct. The suspect remains in custody pending further investigation.

    Political figures were highly visible at the events. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson addressed supporters in Brisbane, criticizing hate speech laws and mass immigration policies. ‘We can never give up our freedom of speech,’ she declared, blaming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for current migration levels. In response, Greens Senator Larissa Waters accused Hanson of divisiveness and racism.

    Cultural tensions also surfaced around musical representation. March for Australia organizers defiantly played Men at Work’s ‘Down Under’ despite explicit objections from co-writer Colin Hay, who denounced the use of his song for promoting xenophobia. Rally organizer Bec Walker responded with expletives directed at the musician.

    Amid the tensions, Invasion Day rallies also featured solemn moments. In Sydney, a minute of silence was observed for Sophie Quinn, John Harris, and Nerida Quinn, who were recently killed in a shooting in Lake Cargelligo. Uncle Robbie Thorpe in Melbourne criticized the recently signed Victorian treaty as ‘disingenuous,’ while Celeste Little called for Australia Day to become a national day of mourning.

    Heavy police presence was reported across all cities to manage the opposing demonstrations and prevent clashes.

  • India’s Padma Awards: Dharmendra honoured with Padma Vibhushan

    India’s Padma Awards: Dharmendra honoured with Padma Vibhushan

    In a poignant tribute to cinematic excellence, the Indian government has posthumously awarded Bollywood icon Dharmendra with the Padma Vibhushan, the nation’s second-highest civilian honor. The announcement came on Republic Day Eve 2026 through an official release from the Ministry of Home Affairs, recognizing the legendary actor’s extraordinary contributions to Indian cinema spanning over six decades.

    Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, left behind an unparalleled legacy that redefined stardom in Indian film history. His final cinematic appearance in the war drama ‘Ikkis,’ released December 25, 2025, served as a fitting culmination to a career marked by exceptional versatility across romantic, action, comedy, and social drama genres.

    Born Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol on December 8, 1935, in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, the actor’s journey from a small village to becoming one of Bollywood’s most enduring symbols remains legendary. After his 1960 debut in ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere,’ Dharmendra achieved his first commercial success with ‘Shola Aur Shabnam’ (1961), followed by critically acclaimed performances in Bimal Roy’s ‘Bandini’ (1963) and numerous other classics.

    The actor’s career evolved through distinct phases—from the romantic heartthrob of the 1960s celebrated for his expressive eyes and charming screen presence to the action hero who delivered landmark blockbusters including ‘Sholay,’ ‘Seeta Aur Geeta,’ and ‘Charas.’ His remarkable comeback in 2007 with ‘Life in a… Metro,’ ‘Apne,’ and ‘Johnny Gaddaar’ demonstrated his enduring relevance, while his 2023 performance in ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,’ particularly his groundbreaking on-screen kiss with co-star Shabana Azmi, showcased his continued willingness to challenge cinematic conventions.

    The Padma Awards, among India’s highest civilian honors, are categorized into three distinctions—Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri—and recognize excellence across diverse fields including arts, literature, social service, and public service. The awards are traditionally conferred by the President of India during ceremonial functions at Rashtrapati Bhawan each spring.

  • Ferry with more than 350 people sinks in the southern Philippines leaving at least 15 dead

    Ferry with more than 350 people sinks in the southern Philippines leaving at least 15 dead

    A significant maritime emergency unfolded in the southern Philippines early Monday as the inter-island ferry M/V Trisha Kerstin 3 sank near Baluk-baluk village in Basilan province. Carrying 359 people total—332 passengers and 27 crew members—the vessel encountered apparent technical complications and foundered approximately one nautical mile from shore shortly after midnight, despite favorable weather conditions.

    The subsequent search and rescue operation mobilized a substantial force from multiple agencies. Coast guard and navy vessels were deployed to the area, supported by an air force Black Hawk helicopter, a surveillance aircraft, and local fishing boats. Coast Guard Commander Romel Dua confirmed that a safety officer aboard the ferry provided the initial alert, enabling the rapid emergency response.

    Authorities reported that 316 individuals have been successfully rescued from the waters. Tragically, the bodies of 15 victims have been recovered. Survivors were initially transported to the island village of Baluk-baluk, with several others, including two fatalities, arriving at the provincial capital of Isabela. Provincial Governor Mujiv Hataman was present at the pier to receive them.

    Commander Dua stated that an official investigation will be launched to determine the precise cause of the sinking. He noted that the vessel had received clearance from the coast guard prior to its departure from Zamboanga port and showed no indications of overloading. This incident highlights the persistent challenges of maritime safety in the Philippine archipelago, where sea accidents remain common due to factors including frequent storms, inadequate vessel maintenance, overcrowding, and inconsistent enforcement of safety protocols. The nation’s history includes the world’s worst peacetime maritime disaster—the 1987 sinking of the Dona Paz, which resulted in over 4,300 fatalities.

  • NRA stress right to carry weapons in wake of Minneapolis shooting

    NRA stress right to carry weapons in wake of Minneapolis shooting

    MINNEAPOLIS – In an unusual departure from its typically staunch support of law enforcement, the National Rifle Association (NRA) has joined a growing chorus of gun advocacy groups demanding a comprehensive federal investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, a registered nurse, by a border agent during an immigration operation in Minneapolis last Saturday.

    The incident has ignited fierce political controversy and public protests, with state and federal authorities presenting starkly contradictory narratives. While the Trump administration’s Department of Homeland Security maintains that Pretti was armed and posed an imminent threat to officers, no publicly available video evidence corroborates claims that he was holding a firearm during the confrontation.

    The NRA’s intervention came specifically in response to comments from Bill Essayli, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, who stated on social media that individuals approaching law enforcement with guns risk being “lawfully shot.” The gun lobby organization characterized this position as “dangerous and wrong,” emphasizing in an official statement that “responsible public voices should be awaiting a full investigation, not making generalizations and demonizing law-abiding citizens.”

    This critical stance from the traditionally pro-Trump organization highlights the deepening political divisions surrounding the case. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has dismissed the administration’s account as “nonsense” and “lies,” while Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey compared the federal operation to an invasion and rejected ICE’s characterization of the shooting as self-defense.

    The incident represents the second fatal shooting involving federal agents in Minneapolis this month amid intensified immigration enforcement operations. Multiple videos captured from bystander perspectives have emerged, though they fail to definitively resolve the conflicting accounts between state and federal authorities.

    Gun Owners of America and Republican Congressman Thomas Massie have echoed the NRA’s concerns, with Massie asserting that “carrying a firearm is not a death sentence, it’s a constitutionally protected God-given right.” Essayli has since accused critics of taking his comments out of context, clarifying that he specifically referred to “agitators approaching law enforcement with a gun and refusing to disarm.”

    As temperatures plummeted in Minneapolis, crowds gathered to protest the shooting, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding immigration enforcement and gun rights that this incident has brought to the forefront of national discourse.

  • ‘It’s been a motivation for us’: Eli Katoa plays new role for the Storm as emerging forward looms as his replacement

    ‘It’s been a motivation for us’: Eli Katoa plays new role for the Storm as emerging forward looms as his replacement

    The Melbourne Storm squad is channeling the adversity of Eli Katoa’s season-ending injury into a powerful source of motivation for the 2026 campaign. Katoa, the reigning Dally M Second Rower of the Year, was officially ruled out for the season after sustaining a series of head knocks while representing Tonga in the Pacific Championships last November. His condition necessitated a two-week hospitalization in Auckland before specialists confirmed he would not return to play this year.

    Despite the devastating prognosis, Katoa’s recent presence at training sessions, where he has been engaged in light duties, has provided an emotional lift for both teammates and fans. Versatile forward Ativalu Lisati revealed the profound impact of having Katoa around the facility, stating, ‘He’s been going through it tough, so to see him on the field is a motivation for us boys to do a job for him this year. The boys have been getting around him and we still joke around with him and laugh.’

    Lisati emerges as the most logical candidate to fill the void left by the international superstar on the right edge, following his breakout 2025 campaign that earned him a bench spot in the grand final against Brisbane. The 25-year-old, who recently signed a two-year contract extension after winning the club’s Billy Slater Rookie of the Year Award, expressed his willingness to adapt to any role required by coach Craig Bellamy.

    The Storm face significant challenges beyond Katoa’s absence, having lost key players including Ryan Papenhuyzen and Nelson Asofa-Solomona. These departures have led external pundits to predict the potential end of Melbourne’s dynasty. However, Lisati remains confident in the squad’s depth, noting, ‘We’ve got a great group of players who are ready to step in and take those roles. We’re confident and we’re just trying to get in as many repetitions at training.’

    Reflecting on the heartbreaking grand final loss, Lisati acknowledged the disappointment while emphasizing the valuable lessons learned: ‘It was a tough pill to swallow… But there was still stuff to celebrate with the team because getting to a grand final is an accomplishment.’ As the back-to-back grand finalists prepare to defy expectations, the combination of Katoa’s inspirational presence and emerging talents like Lisati could prove crucial to their continued success.

  • ‘Heartbroken’ Timberwolves resume NBA play amid Minneapolis turmoil

    ‘Heartbroken’ Timberwolves resume NBA play amid Minneapolis turmoil

    The Minnesota Timberwolves returned to NBA competition under a cloud of community grief following the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by federal agents in Minneapolis within three weeks. The emotional toll was palpable as coaches and players struggled to balance professional obligations with civic trauma.

    Timberwolves coach Chris Finch delivered an emotionally charged statement before Monday’s rescheduled game against the Golden State Warriors, describing the organization as ‘heartbroken’ by the recent violence. ‘For the second time in less than three weeks we’ve lost another beloved member of our community in the most unimaginable way,’ Finch told reporters, referencing the deaths of 37-year-old ICU nurse Alex Pretti and 37-year-old Renee Good, both killed in separate incidents involving federal immigration enforcement.

    Golden State coach Steve Kerr, whose own father was assassinated in 1984, expressed profound sympathy for Minneapolis residents. ‘There’s a pall that has been cast over the city. You can feel it,’ Kerr stated. ‘When all the unrest settles down, those family members won’t be returning home and that’s devastating.’

    The NBA Players Association issued a formal statement condemning the violence and expressing solidarity with Minneapolis protesters. ‘Following the news of yet another fatal shooting in Minneapolis, a city that has been on the forefront of the fight against injustices, NBA players can no longer remain silent,’ the union declared, emphasizing their commitment to protecting civil liberties for all community members.

    WNBA champion Breanna Stewart made a powerful symbolic gesture during her Unrivaled league game in Florida, holding a sign reading ‘Abolish ICE’ during player introductions. ‘When human lives are at stake it’s bigger than anything else,’ Stewart explained, noting that her wife, retired Spanish basketball player Marta, is currently navigating the U.S. citizenship process. ‘We’re so fueled by hate right now instead of love.’

    The sporting community’s response extended to social media platforms, where Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton directly labeled Pretti’s death as ‘murder’ while former WNBA player Brianna Turner declared that defenders of immigration enforcement ‘will forever be on the wrong side of history.’

  • Paris men’s fashion week in 5 trends: rebuilt tailoring, quiet craft and clothes built to last

    Paris men’s fashion week in 5 trends: rebuilt tailoring, quiet craft and clothes built to last

    PARIS — The conclusion of Paris Men’s Fashion Week delivered a powerful sartorial directive: invest in meticulously crafted garments designed for permanence rather than fleeting trends. The final showcases emphasized sophisticated dressing and durable construction, marking a significant shift toward sustainable luxury in menswear.

    Japanese design force Sacai, under Chitose Abe’s direction, revolutionized traditional silhouettes through deconstructed reassembly. The collection introduced geometric modifications to jackets and trousers with additional panels, pockets, and quilted inserts, maintaining wearability while fundamentally reengineering proportions.

    Hermès staged an emotionally charged farewell for veteran designer Véronique Nichanian after her 37-year tenure. The presentation championed minimalist elegance through precision-tailored pieces, including a standout finale piece: a sophisticated dark coat crafted from glossy crocodile leather. Nichanian’s inclusion of designs from previous decades demonstrated fashion’s timeless potential, complemented by her parting wisdom: “Slow down.”

    Five dominant trends emerged from the week’s culminating shows:

    1. Statement Outerwear: Coats dominated as the season’s definitive piece. Junya Watanabe centered his collection on classic camel and navy coats hybridized with sportswear elements—bomber backs, leather fronts, and technical quilting—creating formalwear with contemporary ruggedness.

    2. Architectural Tailoring: Designers reengineered traditional suiting through structural innovation. Comme des Garçons Homme Plus presented radically altered black suits with reconfigured lapels and hems, later transitioning to stark white iterations. The dramatic styling underscored tailoring’s foundational role in fashion experimentation.

    3. Hidden Complexity: Kiko Kostadinov exemplified the trend of surface-level minimalism concealing intricate construction. Clean coats and jackets featured folded panels, curved collars, and sophisticated draping in muted tones, with fasteners discreetly hidden to emphasize pure form and movement.

    4. Edged Formality: Collections balanced elegance with subversive elements. Watanabe’s serious presentation featured razor-sharp denim pieces styled as contemporary uniforms. Louis Gabriel Nouchi intensified this concept with provocative body-conscious garments mixed with precise tailoring, creating wearable yet charged ensembles.

    5. Longevity Focus: Multiple designers emphasized enduring design over rapid trend cycles. White Mountaineering’s final show presented technical outerwear and precise patterning as the culmination of a 20-year creative journey rather than seasonal statements.

    The week ultimately championed a philosophy of investment dressing—garments valued for their construction quality, material integrity, and timeless relevance rather than temporary novelty.