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  • India’s Modi visits Ethiopia and calls for renewed bilateral relations

    India’s Modi visits Ethiopia and calls for renewed bilateral relations

    ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi articulated a compelling vision for South-South cooperation during his landmark visit to Ethiopia on Wednesday, marking the first-ever trip by an Indian head of government to the African nation. Addressing Ethiopian parliamentarians in a special session, Modi emphasized the shared destiny of developing nations in reshaping global dynamics.

    “The Global South is actively scripting its own future, with India and Ethiopia united in this transformative vision,” declared the Prime Minister. “We envision a world where emerging nations advance not in opposition to others, but for the benefit of all—a world characterized by equitable development, accessible technology, and respected sovereignty.”

    The bilateral engagement yielded substantial agreements as both nations signed multiple memorandums of understanding covering diverse sectors. The partnership will encompass specialized training for United Nations peacekeeping forces, educational collaboration, and the establishment of a sophisticated data center within Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs infrastructure.

    Significantly, India committed to supporting Ethiopia’s navigation of its substantial international debt burden through the G20 Common Framework mechanism while pledging enhanced cooperation in counterterrorism efforts. The visit was further distinguished by Prime Minister Modi receiving Ethiopia’s highest civilian honor, the “Great Honor Nishan Ethiopia,” presented by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed—marking the first time a foreign head of state has been accorded this recognition.

    This diplomatic advancement occurs against the backdrop of Ethiopia’s strategic reorientation following its 2022 admission as a full member of the BRICS coalition, which includes nations such as Iran and Egypt. This membership represents part of Ethiopia’s broader strategy to cultivate new international partnerships after emerging from a devastating two-year civil conflict in the Tigray region.

    The timing of strengthened India-Ethiopia relations coincides with deteriorating ties between Ethiopia and the United States. Washington suspended Ethiopia’s preferential trade access to American markets in 2022—a move that significantly impacted the country’s economic trajectory—and recently terminated humanitarian assistance programs following the cancellation of USAID-funded initiatives.

    Beyond governmental cooperation, India maintains substantial people-to-connections with Ethiopia, serving as a preferred destination for medical tourism and higher education among Ethiopians seeking quality services at accessible costs that remain challenging to obtain domestically.

  • Inviso Group: Powering Madagascar’s industrial and agricultural transformation

    Inviso Group: Powering Madagascar’s industrial and agricultural transformation

    ANTANANARIVO, MADAGASCAR – Emerging from humble beginnings as an automotive parts distributor three decades ago, Inviso Group has transformed into Madagascar’s premier industrial conglomerate, driving sustainable development across multiple sectors while maintaining deep local roots. Under the strategic guidance of Co-CEO Yanish Ismael, the company has evolved into a diversified powerhouse spanning plastics manufacturing, agriculture, real estate, construction, energy, automotive distribution, digitalization, and food production.

    The group’s foundational venture, Société Malgache de Transformation des Plastiques (SMTP), played a pivotal role in developing the nation’s water infrastructure through advanced PVC and pipe manufacturing. This initial success created a springboard for diversified expansion, all built within a fully localized ecosystem that now directly employs 3,000 Malagasy workers and indirectly supports approximately 20,000 livelihoods.

    “Our operational philosophy centers on local sourcing with global thinking,” Ismael states. “We maintain an unwavering belief that everything is achievable here in Madagascar.” This conviction manifests in the group’s ambitious new meat export initiative and comprehensive modernization of agricultural value chains through cutting-edge automation and digital technologies.

    Unlike conventional profit-driven enterprises, Inviso prioritizes long-term sustainable value creation over quick returns. The company maintains rigorous equipment upgrades to meet global technological standards while investing substantially in workforce training and skills transfer programs. Quality assurance forms another critical pillar, with all products undergoing stringent in-house testing and compliance with HACCP, Halal, and ISO certifications.

    Sustainability principles permeate Inviso’s operations, evidenced by ongoing solarization projects to reduce environmental impact. The company views certification not merely as regulatory compliance but as a strategic tool for long-term resilience. “True sustainability extends beyond environmental concerns to encompass creating enduring enterprises,” Ismael explains.

    Future ambitions include strengthened partnerships with the UAE and GCC nations, particularly in agri-food exports and industrial collaboration. With an ambitious decade-long growth strategy, Inviso plans to double its workforce while expanding its footprint across the African continent. “Madagascar represents a land of immense opportunity,” Ismael concludes. “Through visionary leadership and strategic partnerships, we can transform these opportunities into lasting prosperity.”

  • Six Canadian MPs denied entry by Israel to occupied West Bank

    Six Canadian MPs denied entry by Israel to occupied West Bank

    Israeli authorities have barred a delegation of six Canadian parliamentarians and 24 accompanying individuals from entering the occupied West Bank through the Allenby border crossing from Jordan. The incident occurred on Tuesday amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

    Canada’s Foreign Minister Anita Anand confirmed the denial of entry, stating her ministry had formally expressed Canada’s objections regarding the treatment of its citizens. The delegation was participating in an observational trip sponsored by The Canadian-Muslim Vote (TCMV), a non-profit organization.

    Israeli Ambassador to Canada Iddo Moed justified the decision by citing TCMV’s alleged connections to Islamic Relief Worldwide, an NGO designated by Israel as a terrorist organization. The Israeli military coordination body Cogat stated the group arrived ‘without prior coordination’ and was denied entry ‘for security reasons.’

    Five of the barred MPs belong to the governing Liberal Party—Fares Al Soud, Iqra Khalid, Aslam Rana, Gurbux Saini, and Sameer Zuberi—while the sixth, Jenny Kwan, represents the left-leaning New Democratic Party. Kwan denounced the decision as ‘completely unacceptable’ and refuted suggestions that lawmakers presented any security risk.

    The National Council of Canadian Muslims (NCCM), whose staff members were part of the delegation, characterized the exclusion as ‘deeply troubling.’ CEO Stephen Brown accused Israel of implementing a ‘broader pattern’ of restricting access to independent observers seeking to witness conditions in occupied territories.

    Islamic Relief Canada CEO Tufail Hussain vehemently denied the terrorism allegations, calling them ‘baseless and dangerous’ assertions that endanger humanitarian workers and beneficiaries.

    This incident follows similar entry denials for British parliamentarians in 2024 and occurs against the backdrop of heightened Canada-Israel tensions since Canada’s September recognition of Palestinian statehood alongside other Western nations—a move Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously condemned as ‘disgraceful.’

  • Filmmaker Rob Reiner’s son faces murder charges, prosecutors weigh death penalty

    Filmmaker Rob Reiner’s son faces murder charges, prosecutors weigh death penalty

    Los Angeles County prosecutors are pursuing murder charges against Nick Reiner, the 32-year-old son of acclaimed Hollywood director Rob Reiner, following the brutal stabbing deaths of both his parents. The grim discovery was made Sunday afternoon at the family’s Brentwood residence, an affluent neighborhood in west Los Angeles.

    Authorities confirmed that Nick Reiner was apprehended without resistance hours after the bodies of his father, 78-year-old filmmaker Rob Reiner, and mother, 70-year-old photographer Michele Reiner, were found. The case has been transferred to the District Attorney’s Office, with formal charges of first-degree murder expected to be filed imminently.

    District Attorney Nathan Hochman addressed reporters, stating the charges could potentially carry capital punishment, though prosecutors have not yet determined whether to seek the death penalty. ‘Their loss is beyond tragic,’ Hochman remarked. ‘We will commit ourselves to bringing their murderer to justice.’

    While investigators confirmed a knife was used in the killings, they have disclosed neither a potential motive nor whether the murder weapon has been recovered. Preliminary reports from various media outlets indicate Nick Reiner had been seen arguing with his parents Saturday evening at a holiday gathering hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien.

    The defendant has publicly documented his extensive history with substance abuse, including periods of homelessness when refusing treatment. These experiences previously inspired the 2015 film ‘Being Charlie,’ which father and son co-wrote together. Nick Reiner remains in custody without bail pending medical clearance for his arraignment.

    Rob Reiner leaves behind an extraordinary Hollywood legacy spanning decades. He achieved early fame as Mike ‘Meathead’ Stivic on the groundbreaking television series ‘All in the Family’ before transitioning to directing iconic films including ‘This Is Spinal Tap,’ ‘The Princess Bride,’ ‘When Harry Met Sally…’, and ‘A Few Good Men.’ Beyond his cinematic achievements, Reiner was recognized for his political activism and support of Democratic causes.

    Michele Reiner, his wife of 36 years, was an accomplished photographer whose work included the cover image for Donald Trump’s ‘The Art of the Deal.’ The couple married in 1989 after meeting during production of ‘When Harry Met Sally…’

  • Why the world’s most visited museum has reached a breaking point

    Why the world’s most visited museum has reached a breaking point

    PARIS — The Louvre Museum, the world’s most visited cultural institution, faces an unprecedented institutional crisis as a prolonged staff strike reveals deep-seated operational failures compounded by a spectacular $102 million jewel theft. What began as a labor dispute has evolved into a comprehensive examination of the museum’s security protocols, structural integrity, and management competence.

    The current turmoil stems from multiple converging factors: chronic understaffing, deteriorating infrastructure, and security vulnerabilities dramatically exposed by the October daylight robbery of crown jewels. The heist, executed with startling efficiency as thieves escaped with approximately 30 seconds to spare, served as a catalyst for long-simmering staff grievances to erupt into full-scale industrial action.

    French parliamentary investigations revealed cascading security failures: only one of two surveillance cameras functioned properly at the break-in point, security personnel lacked adequate monitoring equipment, and police were initially dispatched to an incorrect location when alarms finally activated. Audits from 2017 and 2019 had previously identified these vulnerabilities, yet recommended corrective measures were never fully implemented.

    The physical plant itself presents additional challenges. Sections of the centuries-old palace have been deemed unsafe and closed to the public, including nine rooms in the Campana Gallery dedicated to ancient Greek ceramics. Technical reports cited ‘particular fragility’ in supporting beams, forcing staff relocations and ongoing closures. Unions point to incidents like November’s water leak that damaged hundreds of historical volumes as evidence of broader institutional neglect.

    Culture Ministry officials have attempted to resolve the standoff by proposing to cancel planned 2026 funding cuts, hire additional security and visitor services staff, and increase wages. However, unions have rejected these measures as insufficient, indicating that trust has deteriorated beyond simple solutions.

    The museum has partially reopened a limited ‘masterpiece route’ allowing access to iconic works like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo—a temporary measure that underscores how far normal operations have deteriorated. Pressure now focuses squarely on Louvre President Laurence des Cars, with the ministry appointing Philippe Jost, who oversaw Notre Dame’s restoration, to assist in reorganizing the museum’s operations.

    President Macron’s ‘New Renaissance’ renovation plan, launched in early 2025 to modernize the Louvre and address overcrowding, faces criticism for prioritizing high-profile projects over fundamental infrastructure and security needs. A proposed dedicated room for the Mona Lisa with separate entrance has become symbolic of what staff perceive as misplaced priorities, fearing it may lead to tiered access systems rather than addressing urgent safety concerns.

    Former director Jean-Luc Martinez, who led the institution from 2013 to 2021, recently told senators he believed the museum’s security plan was adequate during his tenure, stopping short of accepting personal responsibility for the documented failures. All four suspected robbers have been apprehended, but the stolen jewels remain missing, with Interpol listing them in its database of stolen art amid concerns they may be dismantled or smuggled internationally.

  • Iran, Russia vow to speed up implementing int’l transport route

    Iran, Russia vow to speed up implementing int’l transport route

    TEHRAN – In a significant development for Eurasian connectivity, Iran and Russia have pledged to expedite the implementation of a major international transport corridor designed to link South Asia with Northern Europe. The commitment was solidified during high-level talks held in Tehran on Tuesday between Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, and Vitaly Savelyev, Russia’s Deputy Prime Minister for Transport.

    The discussions centered on the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multi-modal network of ship, rail, and road routes. Mr. Larijani emphasized Iran’s full preparedness to advance the project, declaring the nation’s intention to promptly eliminate existing executive and institutional hurdles. He confirmed that Iran would enact all necessary agreements to provide a robust legal and administrative foundation for the corridor’s construction and operation.

    Echoing this determination, Deputy Prime Minister Savelyev welcomed Iran’s decisive stance and affirmed Moscow’s readiness to transition the ambitious initiative into its operational phase. Both officials underscored that the INSTC represents a cornerstone of their joint strategic objective to fortify sustainable bilateral cooperation and establish independent regional supply chains, reducing reliance on traditional routes.

    The project gained substantial momentum in July 2023 when the two nations signed an executory contract for a critical 162-kilometer railway segment within Iran. This rail link, upon completion, will connect the northern Iranian cities of Rasht and Astara, forming a vital segment of the broader corridor and significantly enhancing freight capacity across the region.

  • Five of the greatest players never to win Afcon

    Five of the greatest players never to win Afcon

    As Mohamed Salah prepares for his fifth attempt at Africa Cup of Nations glory with Egypt in Morocco, the Liverpool superstar finds himself among an exclusive group of African football legends who never captured the continent’s most prestigious trophy. Despite his remarkable club success and individual accolades, the Nations Cup title remains the missing piece in Salah’s illustrious career.

    The Egyptian captain has experienced repeated heartbreak in the tournament since his 2011 international debut. Egypt’s most successful nation with seven titles has endured a drought since 2010, with Salah suffering final defeats in 2017 (against Cameroon) and 2021 (against Senegal), where he was denied even taking a penalty in the shootout. His campaigns have been marred by unexpected eliminations and injuries, most notably in 2023 when he watched from the sidelines as DR Congo eliminated his team.

    Salah joins a distinguished list of African greats who never lifted the trophy. Didier Drogba, despite his legendary status at Chelsea and nine goals in ten major finals for the Blues, twice captained Ivory Coast to final defeats in 2006 and 2012. His penalty misfires proved particularly costly, with missed opportunities in both championship matches.

    George Weah, the only African Ballon d’Or winner (1995), could not translate his individual brilliance into team success with Liberia. The nation made only two tournament appearances during his career, failing to advance from the group stage on both occasions despite Weah’s leadership.

    Nwankwo Kanu, the Nigerian maestro who won Champions League and UEFA Cup honors, experienced his Nations Cup nadir in the 2000 final against Cameroon. His missed penalty in the shootout denied Nigeria the title, and despite multiple semi-final appearances, the trophy remained beyond his reach.

    Michael Essien, Ghana’s midfield dynamo who won numerous trophies with Chelsea, never progressed beyond the semi-finals with the Black Stars. Injuries hampered several of his campaigns, including the 2010 tournament where he missed Ghana’s final defeat to Egypt.

    These stories highlight the unique challenge of international tournament football, where individual brilliance doesn’t always guarantee team success. As Salah mounts his latest attempt in Morocco, he carries not only Egypt’s hopes but also the legacy of these great players who never achieved Nations Cup glory.

  • Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the most uplifting stories of 2025

    Good news: Behind the scenes of some of the most uplifting stories of 2025

    In a year characterized by global turmoil and natural disasters, Associated Press journalists found themselves at the heart of extraordinary human moments that defined 2025’s most uplifting stories. From historic papal communications to Nobel Prize announcements and resilient celebrations, these professionals documented remarkable instances of perseverance and joy.

    The unprecedented election of America’s first pope, Leo XIV, created an immediate media frenzy. Video journalist Obed Lamy secured exclusive access to the pontiff’s brother, John Prevost, in suburban Chicago. During their interview, an unexpected call from the basement tablet revealed the newly appointed pope himself attempting to contact his brother. Lamy captured the intimate sibling conversation on speakerphone, where the world’s most powerful religious figure casually discussed family travel plans and accommodation uncertainties like any ordinary brother.

    Meanwhile, in Seattle, photographer Lindsey Wasson became an unexpected bearer of life-changing news. Arriving before dawn at scientist Mary E. Brunkow’s residence, Wasson informed her husband Ross about Mary’s Nobel Prize in Medicine achievement for her work on peripheral immune tolerance. Initially met with disbelief at the 3:45 AM interruption, the household quickly transformed into a celebration as the reality set in, with Wasson documenting the emotional transition from skepticism to overwhelming joy.

    In the Philippines, veteran photographer Aaron Favila braved catastrophic flooding from annual typhoons to document an inspiring wedding ceremony. Despite chest-deep waters, couple Jade Rick Verdillo and Jamaica proceeded with their nuptials at Barasoain Church north of Manila, symbolizing their resilience through life’s challenges. Favila hitched rides on rescue trucks through impassable floods to capture the complete ceremony, acting as both journalist and honorary wedding photographer.

    Southern California’s Palisades community demonstrated similar resilience when their youth theater group staged “Crazy for You” just weeks after wildfires destroyed their theater and many cast members’ homes. Reporter Jocelyn Gecker witnessed the powerful opening night where performers found solace in George and Ira Gershwin’s music, temporarily lifting the weight of their losses. The production garnered attention from the Gershwin family trust, who attended a performance and delivered a heartfelt letter applauding the group’s dedication and resilience.

    These interconnected stories, captured by AP journalists across different continents and circumstances, collectively illustrate humanity’s remarkable capacity to find light during darkness, celebrate amidst adversity, and maintain connections when they matter most.

  • Innovation sustains Beijing’s winter crayfish palate

    Innovation sustains Beijing’s winter crayfish palate

    A revolutionary advancement in aquaculture technology has transformed Beijing’s winter dining scene, enabling year-round availability of fresh crayfish—a delicacy previously confined to summer months. The culinary breakthrough originates from Qianjiang, Hubei province, where agricultural innovators have successfully overcome longstanding technical barriers in winter rice paddy co-cultivation systems.

    Despite recent snowfall blanketing Beijing’s streets, restaurants in popular dining districts like Sanlitun and Guijie Street now emanate the distinctive aroma of chili-oil and garlic-infused crayfish throughout the winter season. This unprecedented supply chain achievement marks a significant departure from traditional seasonal limitations that once restricted fresh crayfish availability during colder months.

    Agricultural authorities in Hubei province, responsible for nearly 40% of China’s total crayfish output, have implemented technological innovations that transitioned the industry from seasonal harvesting to continuous year-round production. The breakthrough specifically addresses winter farming challenges in integrated rice-crayfish agricultural systems, where low temperatures previously hindered large-scale production.

    According to Zhang Yun, director of the Qianjiang Crayfish Industry Promotion Center, the city’s winter output is projected to exceed 26,000 tons this year—representing a 30% year-on-year increase. Since November, Beijing has received a consistent daily supply of 11 tons of fresh winter crayfish, ensuring stable market availability.

    The economic implications extend beyond consumer benefits. Local farmers report substantial income improvements, with the new winter model generating approximately 30,000 yuan ($4,896) in additional net profit per hectare compared to traditional seasonal farming practices.

    Industry leaders including Wang Zhongwei, culinary research director at COFCO Group, celebrate this development as achieving ‘crayfish freedom’ for consumers. Restaurant associations note that the reliable supply of quality ingredients during winter months injects new vitality into Beijing’s culinary landscape, offering chefs and establishments previously unavailable menu options during the coldest season.

  • Don’t cross flooded wadis, UAE villagers warn as they remain on alert for heavy rains

    Don’t cross flooded wadis, UAE villagers warn as they remain on alert for heavy rains

    Mountainous regions across the United Arab Emirates remain on high alert as unstable weather patterns continue to bring substantial rainfall to the Emirates this week, with villagers issuing stern warnings against crossing flooded wadis that transform into dangerous torrents within minutes.

    Residents of wadi communities in Ras Al Khaimah and Shawka areas, who have generations of experience dealing with flash floods, emphasize that while rainfall provides essential water for their agricultural operations, it simultaneously presents grave dangers to both life and property. These communities have developed sophisticated systems of vigilance and mutual support to navigate the recurring threat.

    Omar Ahmed Al Shehhi from Wadi Ghalila explained the immediate response protocol: ‘We begin cleaning ancient irrigation channels that direct wadi water into our farms immediately when rain is forecast.’ This traditional water sharing system allows farms to fill sequentially, ensuring equitable distribution of the precious resource.

    The community spirit serves as a critical defense mechanism against potential tragedies. Local residents actively communicate with visitors, warning them when they position themselves in dangerous locations or consider crossing flowing wadis. This intervention is particularly crucial as outsiders frequently underestimate the sudden and immense power of flash floods that can materialize without warning.

    During active flow conditions, a temporary lockdown effect takes hold in these communities. Residents avoid unnecessary travel to other areas until water levels subside, and those outside the region are advised to wait patiently rather than attempt dangerous crossings.

    Despite their extensive experience, the unpredictable nature of weather patterns still results in occasional losses. Al Shehhi noted that some residents have lost livestock when unexpected heavy rainfall caught them unprepared, forcing frantic efforts to move animals to higher ground.

    Musabbeh Saif from Shawka, an area where numerous wadis intersect with roads and residential zones, highlighted that while modern housing has been constructed further from main wadi channels, agricultural land remains vulnerable. ‘The wadis can affect farms in their path,’ he explained. ‘High water levels with strong flow can demolish farm walls and destroy crops.’

    The National Centre of Meteorology has forecast continued unstable weather across the UAE this week, with temperatures potentially dropping to 10°C in internal and mountain regions. Authorities have repeatedly urged the public to exercise extreme caution, avoid wadis and mountainous areas during rainfall, and refrain from attempting to cross flooded valleys.