World

Kiev, Dec 25 (IANS) Ukraine will require at least $39.5 billion in external financing in 2023 to keep its economy afloat, a media report said, citing a recent International Monetary Fund (IMF) projection.

"Staff analysis suggests that external fiscal financing needs would be at least 39.5 billion dollars in a central scenario," the IMF was quoted by Interfax-Ukraine news agency as saying, Xinhua news agency reported.

Under a pessimistic scenario, which envisages that Ukraine's gross domestic product will decline by 12.5 per cent, the country's foreign financing needs will be around 57 billion dollars, the IMF said.

According to Ukrainian Finance Minister Serhiy Marchenko, external financing of Ukraine's state budget is set to reach 30 billion dollars this year.

The Ukrainian economy, which was severely hit by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, is expected to shrink by between 32-35 per cent this year after a 3.4 per cent growth in 2021.

--IANS
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Tehran, Dec 25 (IANS) Iraq has put forward a proposal for holding talks between Tehran and Cairo at political and security levels to restore relations between the two countries, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said.

The senior diplomat made the remarks in an interview with Iran's Mizan news agency, which was published on Saturday, Xinhua news agency reported.

Amir-Abdollahian said the proposal was made by Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, whom he met on the sidelines of a regional conference held this week in the Jordanian capital of Amman.

The foreign minister said he welcomed the Iraqi prime minister's idea, adding that actions will be taken by al-Sudani in the upcoming weeks in order to facilitate such talks.

In recent years, Iran has announced readiness to mend relations with Egypt by settling differences on certain issues.

--IANS
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By Sumi Khan
Dhaka, Dec 24 (IANS) Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Saturday that evil forces are engaged in hatching conspiracies against the country to derail it from the path of development and prosperity.


Hasina said this while delivering her inaugural speech at the 22nd national council of the Awami League (AL) to elect new leadership.

Hasina, who has been re-elected for the 10th time as AL president, asked the party leaders and activists to remain united in order to resist conspiracies and advance the country towards prosperity.

Meanwhile, Obaidul Quader, Bangladesh Road Transport and Bridges Minister, has been re-elected as the general secretary for the third time.

"There will be blows and conspiracies, but AL leaders and activists will remain united and move forward facing adversity," she said.

Hasina inaugurated the party council by hoisting the National Flag at the historic 'Suhrawardy Udyan'.

The theme of this year's council is "Development journey under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina with the determination to build a developed, prosperous, and smart Bangladesh of Bangabandhu's dream".

"Some people tried their best to block the AL from coming to power. But I will not hand over Bangladesh to any conspirator," the Bangladesh Prime Minister said, adding: "No matter how many conspiracies the evil forces hatch against us, the nation will move forward, and we will fulfil the dreams of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman."

Hasina said that AL has mobilised the Constitutional and democratic rights of the citizens.

"Only AL can advance the country and develop it," she added.

The 13th party council that was held in 1981 is considered to be turning point for Awami League as around 4,000 councillors and delegates elected Hasina as president while she was in exile.

--IANS
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London, Dec 24 (IANS) UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has been criticised over an awkward exchange with a homeless person while volunteering at a soup kitchen in front of television cameras, according to a media report.

Sunak visited a shelter on Friday, where after a brief exchange he asked the man whether he worked in business, The Guardian reported.

The man replied that he was homeless. Sunak then discussed his background in the finance industry and asked if it would be something the man would "like to get into".

The man replied: "I wouldn't mind, but I don't know, I'd like to get through Christmas first," The Guardian reported.

He explained that he hoped a charity would find him some temporary accommodation so that he is not on the street for Christmas.

Labour's deputy leader, Angela Rayner, described the exchange as excruciating, while Labour MP Stella Creasy said: "Watching this, I am concerned that the Prime Minister thinks homeless means ‘doesn't have a country pile at the moment'."

Sunak used the trip to outline that the government had pledged 2 billion pounds to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping over three years.

--IANS
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Lahore, Dec 24 (IANS) Former Chief of Army Staff of Pakistan, General (retired) Qamar Javed Bajwa, had "struck" a deal with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan claimed on Saturday, local media reported.

Speaking to journalists, Khan continued to blame the ex-COAS for his government's ouster, The News reported.

A day earlier, the PTI chief had clarified that he was not in contact with the establishment "for now".

The cricketer-turned-politician had recently admitted that granting extension to Gen Bajwa was a "mistake" and had also accused the ex-army chief of "betraying" him.

As the PTI presses the government on holding snap polls across the country, Khan predicted that he sees elections taking place in either March or April, The News reported.

He added that PTI's members of the National Assembly would appear before Speaker Raja Pervez Ashraf to confirm their resignations on December 26 (Monday).

The government, however, has repeatedly ruled out holding early elections citing several reasons, including floods, and said polls might take place in October 2023.

In response to a question regarding the political turmoil in Punjab, the PTI chief said: "We will also remain allies with the Q-League (Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid) as they have stood by us."

"I will not inflict pain on the masses for remaining in power. Once I form my government again, I will not compromise on anything," the PTI chief said.

Berating Foreign Affairs Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, Khan said the Bhutto scion has gone on more visits abroad than he did during his three-and-a-half-year tenure, The News reported.

"Also, if he is claiming that he is paying for foreign trips through his pocket, then are these his private visits," Khan asked.

--IANS
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By IANSlife
New Delhi, Dec 23 (IANSlife) On December 17, 2022, the Kingdom of Bhutan gathered to commemorate its 115th National Day. All Bhutanese take great delight in celebrating the country's National Day, which is a significant annual event. The primary event this year was hosted in Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan, while celebrations were held all around the nation (and even to Bhutanese living overseas).


The National Day is celebrated in commemoration of the coronation of the first king of Bhutan, Gongsar Ugyen Wangchuck, on this day in 1907. Bhutan has never been colonized in its history, and on December 17, 1907, the country was united as one nation under one leadership in the form of the monarchy. Bhutanese people love their King, and the monarchy enjoys much deserved respect in the Himalayan kingdom. Bhutan has been blessed with the extraordinary and visionary leadership of the Wangchuck Dynasty.

The major policies of Bhutan have always been guided by the vision of The Kings who have and continue to work tirelessly to ensure the country's peace, prosperity and happiness of its citizens. The development philosophy of the Kingdom of Bhutan, namely 'Gross National Happiness' is also one the legacies of the Monarchy, introduced by His Majesty the Fourth King and is aimed towards sustainable and balanced development that is integral to social, economic and cultural wellbeing of the nation and its people.

Similarly, His Majesty the Fourth King also had a vision for the nation's tourist strategy. When Bhutan first opened its doors to tourism in the 1970s, the nation made a conscious and deliberate decision to pursue "High Value, Low Volume" tourism. Ironically, it was also a moment when the global economy was struggling. As a result of this visionary programme, which is now admired and valued by many people around the world, Bhutan now has a strong "Brand Bhutan" that is nurtured by its values, virtues, and essence.

In order to forge a new path following the pandemic and strengthen the nation's fundamental philosophy of pursuing sustainable growth, Bhutan has revised its tourist policy. The Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), which supports initiatives promoting Bhutan's economic, social, environmental, and cultural development, increased from USD 65 to USD 200 per person, per night. Bhutan is speeding up its efforts to maintain its status as one of just a few carbon-negative countries in the world since it is a country that is sensitive to the consequences of climate change (experiencing melting glaciers, floods, and unpredictable weather patterns) (in 2021, Bhutan sequestered 9.4M tonnes of carbon against its emission capacity of 3.8M tonnes).

The Kingdom also unveiled a new brand, "Bhutan Believe," which embodies its resolve to concentrate on laying the groundwork for future generations and adjusting its trajectory to keep pace with modern advancements. A fresh vision for the Kingdom and its goals for the next generation are intended by the new brand. It is also helpful for those seeking an exceptional and once-in-a-lifetime travel experience.

The new Brand Bhutan is centred on the next generation, the nation's future guardians, as Bhutan is undergoing a dramatic transformational journey under the personal direction of His Majesty The King across all sectors, including the public service, tourism, education, and many others.

During the National Day event, Bhutan's Orders, Decorations, and Medals are awarded to recognize groups and individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the country. There is always much anticipation for the awards.

"This day has profound significance in the lives of every Bhutanese. We gather to remember and pay respects to our great forefathers who worked tirelessly for the wellbeing of our country and people and who ensured to hand over a strong and sovereign nation to us. It is the day where all the generations come together to not only rejoice, but reflect and pass our solemn vows, recommit to the cause of the nation and rededicate to building a better future," said Dorji Dhradhul, the Director General of the Department of Tourism.

"We congratulate all Bhutanese on this wonderful occasion," he concluded.

The event also featured a mega cultural bonanza with traditional performances by the Royal Academy of Performing Arts and other groups selected by a committee which coordinates the celebrations, as well as a concert featuring popular Bhutanese performers.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
ianslife/tb

By IANSlife
New Delhi, Dec 23 (IANSlife) The 2022-2023 holiday season is a great time to explore New York City, according to NYC & Company, the convention and visitors bureau and official destination marketing agency of New York City. As one of the most well-known holiday destinations, NYC will once more provide merry dining, shopping, cultural, and entertainment experiences and events in all five boroughs.


New Years Eve Times Square Ball Drop

December 31 - January 1 Times Square, Manhattan

The Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year's Eve Ball will sparkle in Times Square all season, but watching its descent in person on New Year's Eve is a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime way to ring in the New Year. Millions view the broadcast event in NYC and around the globe along with spectators in Times Square on December 31. Guests can also stop by the New Year's Eve Confetti Wishing Wall from December 1 on to submit (in person and online here) a wish for the New Year on a piece of official NYE confetti that will be dropped at midnight as the ball drops. Guests can also look out for details (at TSQ.org) about the arrival of the official numerals ('2' and '3' for 2023) that will be in Times Square before ascending to the top of One Times Square to be lit as we welcome the New Year.

A Christmas Carol, a one-man show on Broadway

Till January 1 Midtown Manhattan

In this astonishing Broadway adaptation, Tony Award-winning actor Jefferson Mays tackles more than 50 roles in this season's limited run of A Christmas Carol at the Nederlander Theatre. The beloved Dickens story featuring notable characters-Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the four ghosts-will be making its return for the first time since 2019 and will enchant theatergoers with its redemptive story.

Holiday Train Show at New York Botanical Garden

Till January 16 Bedford Park, The Bronx

The Holiday Train Show-a favourite holiday tradition-has been making memories for over 30 years. Visitors will see model trains zip through an enchanting display of more than 190 replicas of New York City landmarks, each delightfully re-created from natural materials such as birch bark, lotus pods and cinnamon sticks.

Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights

Till January 8 Bronx Park, The Bronx

With more than 360 lanterns representing nearly 90 animal and plant species, Bronx Zoo's family-centric holiday lights festival will connect visitors with real wildlife and wild places. During the evenings, the park comes to life with holiday cheer as immersive light displays, custom-designed animal lanterns (with some life-size, some larger-than-life-size) and animated light shows sparkle across the zoo. The celebration is complete with seasonal treats, classic holiday music and other festive entertainment. The beloved tradition is sure to enchant visitors of all ages, making it the perfect way to kick off the holidays this year.

The Rink at Rockefeller Center

Throughout the holiday season Midtown Manhattan

The world-famous ice-skating rink will return for the holiday season for visitors to skate under the iconic Christmas tree, a quintessential NYC experience. In collaboration with Coach, Rockefeller Center will unveil this year's activations, including a bespoke holiday gift shop, custom hospitality cart serving special treats, and live onsite patch customization for a curated line of Coach products. Santa will join visitors on the ice in December.

City Cruises Holiday-Themed Cruises

Throughout the holiday season Manhattan

Enjoy a NYC Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or New Year's dining cruise, among others, featuring festive decor, meals and stunning views of the City while sailing across the East and Hudson Rivers from the glass-enclosed deck.

NYC Hotel Week: Give the Gift of an NYC Hotel Stay this Winter

On sale Citywide

NYC & Company's second iteration of NYC Hotel Week will return for 2023 alongside signature programs, NYC Restaurant Week, NYC Broadway WeekSM and NYC Must-See WeekSM. On sale from mid-November, shoppers can give the gift of New York City with a 23% off discount. Valid for stays over January 3-February 12, 2023.

Flagship Store Shopping

Available now throughout the holiday season | Midtown Manhattan

Locals and visitors alike are invited to various flagship stores, such as Macys, Bloomingdale, Bergdorf Goodman, Cartier, Saks Fifth Avenue and more, to find this season's most brilliant holiday presents for friends and family.

DREAM BIG: Big Apple Circus Returns to Lincoln Center for 45th Anniversary

November 9-January 1 Upper West Side, Manhattan

The Big Apple Circus is back for its 45th anniversary season and invites visitors to experience the excitement of its dazzling newest extravaganza: DREAM BIG! For eight weeks only, Big Top at Lincoln Center will be home to astonishing wonders and daring acrobatics, setting imaginations soaring to the most astounding, awe-inspiring heights.

NYC Winter Lantern Festival: Journey to the East

Till January 8 St. George, Staten Island

The NYC Winter Lantern Festival is back for its fourth year to transform a new venue, SIUH Community Park in Staten Island, into an immersive world of light. Visitors will enjoy over eight acres of luminescence in addition to a live DJ, projection mapping, food vendors and more.

(IANSlife can be contacted at ianslife@ians.in)

--IANS
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Wellington, Dec 23 (IANS) Amid growing incidents of crime and violence against dairy workers and owners in New Zealand, an Indian-origin dairy owner's shop was targetted by a group of burglars.

Ajit Patel, who owns a dairy on Melrose Road, Auckland, told 1News that five masked men with baseball bats came into his store for about 10 to 15 seconds.

The men tried to take the till but didn't succeed, police said.

Patel's shop was among six stores across Auckland and Waikato areas of the country that were targeted by a group of burglars early this week.

"Police are following lines of inquiry to locate the offenders and to determine whether the incidents are linked," 1News quoted a spokesperson as saying.

The incident comes just days after four men entered Indian-origin Puneet Singh's dairy store in Hamilton and cut off two fingers of his employee with a machete.

Exactly a month before, Janak Patel, 34, was stabbed to death by robbers at Rose Cottage Superette in Sandringham, Auckland, where he worked.

Following Janak's death, New Zealand erupted in protests with people turning up in huge numbers shouting 'enough is enough' and holding placards reading, 'change the law', in front of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's electoral office in Mt Albert.

Most of the dairy owners and workers in New Zealand, who are of Indian-origin, say they fear going to work after Janak's brutal killing.

Following Janak's death, New Zealand announced new measures to counter retail crime, which included providing a NZ$4,000 subsidy to shop owners to install fog cannons in their shops to stop burglaries.

Sunny Kaushal, who leads the Dairy and Business Owners Group in New Zealand, told NZ Herald earlier that many are angry and annoyed by "games this government is continuing to play and the lies they tell", and "it's time to stop".

--IANS
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Colombo, Dec 20 (IANS) Sri Lanka's cabinet of ministers have granted the issuance of investment, employment and resident visas to foreigners at the Colombo Port City, a top official said here on Tuesday.

Addressing reporters, cabinet spokesman Bandula Gunawardena said that the proposal was tabled by Minister of Public Security Tiran Alles, reports Xinhua news agency.

Gunawardena said the Colombo Port City Economic Commission, which was established to regulate the port city, recommended the issuance of the above-mentioned visa types.

The introduction of these visas were vital for the operation and the success of the Port City, he said.

Sri Lanka expects that the Port City will be a main driver of foreign investments to the island nation in the coming years, Gunawardena said.

Spanning 269 hectares of reclaimed land from the sea, the port city will comprise five different precincts including the Financial District, Central Park Living, Island Living, The Marina and the International Island.

--IANS
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Islamabad, Dec 20 (IANS) At least 12 people were killed and 13 others injured due to a massive gas cylinder blast at a market in Pakistan's Balochistan province, a local official said on Tuesday.

Deputy Commissioner of Lasbela Murad Khan Kasi told the media that the incident took place at a shop during its gas refilling process, causing a huge explosion and spreading fire to the adjacent shops in the Bela area of Lasbela, reports Xinhua news agency.

The official said 25 people received burn injuries who were shifted to the Civil Hospital in Karachi, adding that 12 of the wounded succumbed to their injuries during their treatment overnight.

The official feared that the death toll might increase because most of the injured were in critical condition.

The explosion-triggered fire also engulfed other cylinders stored in the shop, leading to more blasts that have destroyed four neighbouring shops and around 12 vehicles parked nearby.

--IANS
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