Six words to represent 2024: How many will be uttered by the end of 2025?The latest episodes focus on the importance of mental health resources for the next generation of collegiate athletes ENGLEWOOD CLIFFS, N.J. , Dec. 17, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- LG Electronics will record the finale of the third season of its "Transparent Conversations" podcast this week in Louisville as the NCAA crowns this year's women's volleyball champion. "Transparent Conversations" is aimed at sharing powerful conversations about the unique mental health issues facing today's student-athletes. The season finale, which is set to tape during the NCAA women's volleyball championship this week in Louisville , will focus on building stronger support for student-athletes' mental health. In this episode, LG takes a closer look at how we can better support the mental health of student-athletes. From schools to home to online and everywhere in between, we'll explore practical ways to create a caring, connected community that helps them thrive. Social media has played a significant role in amplifying the visibility of women's sports, allowing athletes and teams to build personal brands, reach larger audiences and inspire new generations of fans. However, navigating social media is often challenging for athletes due to the pressure to maintain a positive image, increased scrutiny and frequent exposure to criticism and harassment. This constant connectivity and potential for negative feedback have been linked to heightened mental health struggles, making it a double-edged sword for many athletes – especially in the new world of name, image and likeness (NIL). That's why, says podcast host Taylor Rooks , it's important we create safe spaces where athletes feel comfortable talking about their challenges. "Open and honest communication is the key," she said. "Being able to discuss the issues that weigh heavily on your mind is crucial, especially for these athletes who are juggling the pressures of sports, academics, family relationships and friendships. The addition of NIL is yet another layer." Rooks will welcome Victoria Garrick Browne , a USC alum and volleyball player who's gone on to play semi-pro volleyball and has become an advocate for mental health and positive body image. She shares her insights and stories via her podcast "The Hidden Opponent" and on stage at TED Talks. Joining her will be Eric Gross , a mental health therapist at the University of Louisville , who provides therapy, group and team meetings, as well as education to the coaches and staff. The final episode of "Transparent Conversations" will tape from the floor of this year's NCAA Women's Volleyball finals on Sunday, Dec. 22 and will be available in mid-January wherever you get your podcasts. The most recent episodes have tackled topics such as the importance of resilience, overcoming setbacks and balancing the entrepreneurial nature of NIL contracts and have been recorded at Rutgers University , The Ohio State University and the University of Tennessee . These episodes and others are live on Spotify and Apple Podcasts . To learn more about LG's partnership with the NCAA or listen to the "Transparent Conversations" podcast, visit www.lg.com/ncaa and www.lg.com/us/transparent-conversations. About LG Electronics USA LG Electronics USA , Inc., based in Englewood Cliffs, N.J. , is the North American subsidiary of LG Electronics, Inc., a $60-billion -plus global innovator in technology and manufacturing. In the United States , LG sells a wide range of innovative home appliances, home entertainment products, commercial displays, air conditioning systems and vehicle components. LG is an 11-time ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year. www.LG.com . Media Contacts: LG Electronics USA Chris De Maria christopher.demaria@lge.com 908-548-4515 Kristi Hubert Kristi.hubert@LG-One.com 630-995-5444 View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/championing-mental-health-for-ncaa-student-athletes-lg-electronics-concludes-3rd-season-of-transparent-conversations-podcast-302334207.html SOURCE LG Electronics USA
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NIT Srinagar J&K triumphs over NIT Hamirpur by 23 runs SRINAGAR: The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar J&K delivered an impressive all-round performance to defeat NIT Hamirpur by 23 runs in the finals of All India Inter-NIT Faculty and Staff Cricket Tournament at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Silchar Assam. Opting to bat first after winning the toss at NIT Silchar Cricket Ground, Silchar, NIT Srinagar J&K posted a competitive total of 138/5. Faisal Irshad led the charge with an unbeaten 52 runs, striking four boundaries and one six. He was supported by Aaqib Sheikh, who smashed a quickfire 16 off just 5 balls, including two boundaries. Sohail Ahmad Baba also contributed 17 runs before being dismissed. However, NIT Hamirpur bowlers did manage to take key wickets at regular intervals. Manish was the pick of the bowlers, taking 2 wickets for 27 runs in his 3 overs, while Aman Kumar also grabbed 2 wickets, conceding 29 runs. Despite their efforts, NIT Srinagar’s total proved challenging. Chasing 139 to win, NIT Hamirpur struggled to maintain momentum against NIT Srinagar’s disciplined bowling attack. Vivek Tiwari (15 off 15) and Neeraj Dhiman (16 off 12) showed some resistance, but they failed to build a big partnership. Captain Surender Soni added 7 runs, while Akash Sharma (15) and Aman Kumar (12) tried to stabilize the innings. However, the required run rate continued to climb. NIT Srinagar’s bowlers performed brilliantly under pressure. Dr Majid Hussain took 2 wickets for 22 runs in his spell, while Mustafa Zargar, Dr Shakeel Waseem, and Dr. Janibul Bashir chipped in with one wicket each. The bowlers effectively restricted NIT Hamirpur to 115/6 in their allotted 15 overs, sealing a convincing 23-run victory. Faisal Irshad was declared Man of the Match for his vital knock of 52 runs. Aqib Jan emerged as the highest run-scorer for NIT Srinagar in the tournament, while Mustafa Zargar secured the title of the highest wicket-taker for the team. Additionally, Dr Mohsin Shabir was recognized as the most economical bowler of the tournament for NIT Srinagar. The prestigious tournament was hosted by NIT Silchar, with 20 NITs from across India participating in this mega event.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (PTI) Speedy implementation of labour codes, providing social security to informal workers, especially gig and platform, and bringing transformative policies would be the government's priority in 2025 to empower all and boost the economy. All 36 states and UTs are expected to complete harmonization and pre-publication of draft rules under the four labour codes by 31st March 2025, according to the labour ministry. Also Read | Kolkata Fatafat Result Today: Kolkata FF Result for December 30, 2024 Declared, Check Winning Numbers and Result Chart of Satta Matka-Type Lottery Game. The ministry has identified four reforms in labour laws to be carried out viz. Single Registration, Single Return, Firm-based common licence with five years validity. Talking to PTI, Union Minister of Labour & Employment and Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya stated: "As we stand at the dawn of a New Year, our commitment remains resolute -- building a resilient, inclusive, and future-ready workforce for India." Also Read | Shillong Teer Results Today, December 30 2024: Winning Numbers, Result Chart for Shillong Morning Teer, Shillong Night Teer, Khanapara Teer, Juwai Teer and Jowai Ladrymbai. In 2024, "we achieved significant milestones in enhancing the IT systems of EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation) and ESIC (Employees' State Insurance Corporation), enabling the prompt and efficient resolution of grievances for millions of beneficiaries". Recognizing the growing importance of gig and platform workers, he stated that the government has taken proactive steps to address their social security concerns' – a journey that is ongoing and central to the agenda. "Looking ahead, we are determined to accelerate the implementation of labour codes and introduce transformative policies that empower every citizen to contribute meaningfully to the nation's growth story," he said. The four labour codes on social security, industrial relations, wages, and Occupational Safety Health & Working Conditions (OSH) were passed by Parliament. These can be implemented across the country only when the Centre and states notify the respective rules simultaneously as labour is a concurrent subject. According to the labour ministry, as of December 3, 2024, three states viz Meghalaya, Nagaland and West Bengal and a union territory of Lakshadweep, have not yet pre-published the Rules on the Code on Wages, 2019. Two states viz. Meghalaya and West Bengal and two union territories (UTs) viz. Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep and NCT of Delhi have not pre-published the Rules on the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020. Similarly three states viz. Meghalaya, Nagaland, West Bengal and two UTs viz. Lakshadweep and NCT of Delhi have not prepublished the Rules on the Industrial Relations Code, 2020. Likewise three states viz. Meghalaya, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal and two UT viz. Lakshadweep and NCT of Delhi have not pre-published the Rules on the Code on Social Security, 2020. Among others, the codes provide for a uniform definition of 'wages' that will help in reducing multiple interpretations of the labour law and related litigations. Under the codes, the gig and platform workers have been defined for the purpose of formulating schemes to provide social security benefits. Also, the central government may also extend benefits to unorganised workers, gig workers and platform workers and the members of their families through Employees' State Insurance Corporation or Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO). While provisions of the codes aim to enhance job security and enable workers to claim statutory benefits such as minimum wage and social security, labour unions are up in arms against these new rules. AITUC General Secretary Amarjeet Kaur said trade unions will intensify their struggle against the present form of labour codes and its notification and demand the Indian Labour Conference to be held to consider the view point of trade unions on these codes. The unions would fight to defend public sector and public services in the interest of common people and the nation as such. "We consider the four labour codes as negation of the labour rights won over after struggle of 150 years from British Raj onwards. “These codes negate our right to strike, make union registration problematic, de-recognition of unions easy, the process of conciliation and adjudication cumbersome, winding up labour courts and introducing tribunal for workers, overriding power to registrars to de-register unions," he said. The trade unions have common cause with the farmers movement supporting each other and would intensify this unity and enhance agitations on the new year. They would resort to massive mobilisations nationwide and also plan for general strike, he added. In addition to labour codes rules, the government took measures to ease processes for EPFO members and pensioners and expand social security benefits by creating database of various workers. The Central Board of Trustees (CBT) of EPFO approved a proposal for a Centralized Pension Payment System (CPPS) enabling EPS Pensioners to get pension from any bank, any branch, anywhere in India from January 2025. The CBT also recommended EPFO Amnesty Scheme 2024 which has been designed to encourage employers to voluntarily disclose and rectify past non-compliance or under-compliance without facing penalties or legal repercussions. EPFO enhanced the limit for Auto claim settlement of partial withdrawals from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000. The Facility has been extended for housing, education and marriage in addition to illness. EPFO is also working on an integrated, centralized data-base, bringing efficiency in the process. The IT upgradation involving hardware and software upgrade, is targeted to be completed by January 2025. ESIC gave in-principle approval for the establishment of 10 New ESIC Medical Colleges. Besides, the government announced the Employment Linked Incentive Scheme, in the Union Budget 2024-25, for boosting employment. An MIS portal for building and construction workers was launched in August for compilation and analysis of the data obtained from BoCW welfare boards of the states. The National Career Service portal announced partnerships with leading employers to drive employment. From 1st January 2024 to 15th December 2024, 1,89,33,219 vacancies were mobilized on the NCS portal, taking the total vacancies mobilized since inception to 3.89 crores. Registrations on e-shram crossed 30 crores this year showcasing its rapid and widespread adoption among the unorganised workers. (This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)None
Nokia Corporation Stock Exchange Release 17 December 2024 at 22:30 EET Nokia Corporation: Repurchase of own shares on 17.12.2024 Espoo, Finland - On 17 December 2024 Nokia Corporation (LEI: 549300A0JPRWG1KI7U06) has acquired its own shares (ISIN FI0009000681) as follows: On 22 November 2024, Nokia announced that its Board of Directors is initiating a share buyback program to offset the dilutive effect of new Nokia shares issued to the shareholders of Infinera Corporation and certain Infinera Corporation share-based incentives. The repurchases in compliance with the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) 596/2014 (MAR), the Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2016/1052 and under the authorization granted by Nokia's Annual General Meeting on 3 April 2024 started on 25 November 2024 and end by 31 December 2025 and target to repurchase 150 million shares for a maximum aggregate purchase price of EUR 900 million. Total cost of transactions executed on 17 December 2024 was EUR 3,741,698. After the disclosed transactions, Nokia Corporation holds 216,009,778 treasury shares. Details of transactions are included as an appendix to this announcement. On behalf of Nokia Corporation BofA Securities Europe SA About Nokia At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together. As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs. With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today - and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future. Inquiries: Nokia Communications Phone: +358 10 448 4900 Email: [email protected] Maria Vaismaa, Global Head of External Communications Nokia Investor Relations Phone: +358 40 803 4080 Email: [email protected] Attachment Daily Report 2024-12-17LAS VEGAS — Formula 1 on Monday at last said it will expand its grid in 2026 to make room for an American team that is partnered with General Motors. "As the pinnacle of motorsports, F1 demands boundary-pushing innovation and excellence. It's an honor for General Motors and Cadillac to join the world's premier racing series, and we're committed to competing with passion and integrity to elevate the sport for race fans around the world," GM President Mark Reuss said. "This is a global stage for us to demonstrate GM's engineering expertise and technology leadership at an entirely new level." The approval ends years of wrangling that launched a U.S. Justice Department investigation into why Colorado-based Liberty Media, the commercial rights holder of F1, would not approve the team initially started by Michael Andretti. Andretti in September stepped aside from leading his namesake organization, so the 11th team will be called Cadillac F1 and be run by new Andretti Global majority owners Dan Towriss and Mark Walter. The team will use Ferrari engines its first two years until GM has a Cadillac engine built for competition in time for the 2028 season. People are also reading... Towriss is the the CEO and president of Group 1001 and entered motorsports via Andretti's IndyCar team when he signed on financial savings platform Gainbridge as a sponsor. Towriss is now a major part of the motorsports scene with ownership stakes in both Spire Motorsports' NASCAR team and Wayne Taylor Racing's sports car team. Walter is the chief executive of financial services firm Guggenheim Partners and the controlling owner of both the World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers and Premier League club Chelsea. "We're excited to partner with General Motors in bringing a dynamic presence to Formula 1," Towriss said. "Together, we're assembling a world-class team that will embody American innovation and deliver unforgettable moments to race fans around the world." Mario Andretti, the 1978 F1 world champion, will have an ambassador role with Cadillac F1. But his son, Michael, will have no official position with the organization now that he has scaled back his involvement with Andretti Global. "The Cadillac F1 Team is made up of a strong group of people that have worked tirelessly to build an American works team," Michael Andretti posted on social media. "I'm very proud of the hard work they have put in and congratulate all involved on this momentous next step. I will be cheering for you!" The approval has been in works for weeks but was held until after last weekend's Las Vegas Grand Prix to not overshadow the showcase event of the Liberty Media portfolio. Max Verstappen won his fourth consecutive championship in Saturday night's race, the third and final stop in the United States for the top motorsports series in the world. Grid expansion in F1 is both infrequent and often unsuccessful. Four teams were granted entries in 2010 that should have pushed the grid to 13 teams and 26 cars for the first time since 1995. One team never made it to the grid and the other three had vanished by 2017. There is only one American team on the current F1 grid — owned by California businessman Gene Haas — but it is not particularly competitive and does not field American drivers. Andretti's dream was to field a truly American team with American drivers. The fight to add this team has been going on for three-plus years, and F1 initially denied the application despite approval from F1 sanctioning body FIA. The existing 10 teams, who have no voice in the matter, also largely opposed expansion because of the dilution in prize money and the billions of dollars they've already invested in the series. Andretti in 2020 tried and failed to buy the existing Sauber team. From there, he applied for grid expansion and partnered with GM, the top-selling manufacturer in the United States. The inclusion of GM was championed by the FIA and president Mohammed Ben Sulayem, who said Michael Andretti's application was the only one of seven applicants to meet all required criteria to expand F1's current grid. "General Motors is a huge global brand and powerhouse in the OEM world and is working with impressive partners," Ben Sulayem said Monday. "I am fully supportive of the efforts made by the FIA, Formula 1, GM and the team to maintain dialogue and work towards this outcome of an agreement in principle to progress this application." Despite the FIA's acceptance of Andretti and General Motors from the start, F1 wasn't interested in Andretti — but did want GM. At one point, F1 asked GM to find another team to partner with besides Andretti. GM refused and F1 said it would revisit the Andretti application if and when Cadillac had an engine ready to compete. "Formula 1 has maintained a dialogue with General Motors, and its partners at TWG Global, regarding the viability of an entry following the commercial assessment and decision made by Formula 1 in January 2024," F1 said in a statement. "Over the course of this year, they have achieved operational milestones and made clear their commitment to brand the 11th team GM/Cadillac, and that GM will enter as an engine supplier at a later time. Formula 1 is therefore pleased to move forward with this application process." Yet another major shift in the debate over grid expansion occurred earlier this month with the announced resignation of Liberty Media CEO Greg Maffei, who was largely believed to be one of the biggest opponents of the Andretti entry. "With Formula 1's continued growth plans in the US, we have always believed that welcoming an impressive US brand like GM/Cadillac to the grid and GM as a future power unit supplier could bring additional value and interest to the sport," Maffei said. "We credit the leadership of General Motors and their partners with significant progress in their readiness to enter Formula 1." Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox!
WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Xavier Bell had 29 points in Wichita State's 87-72 victory over Friends University on Sunday. Bell shot 11 of 16 from the field and 5 of 5 from the free-throw line for the Shockers (10-3). Quincy Ballard added 17 points, 16 rebounds and three blocks. Corey Washington totaled 16 points, seven rebounds and three steals. Collin Maclin finished with 18 points for the Falcons. Cahlese Lee added 11 points and two steals. Randy Woolf Jr. recorded 10 points, five assists and two steals. Wichita State took the lead with 8:30 left in the first half and never looked back. Bell led his team in scoring with 21 points in the first half to help put them up 45-36 at the break. Wichita State pulled away with a 12-1 run in the second half to extend a nine-point lead to 20. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .
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India’s Public Sector Banks (PSBs) achieved their highest-ever aggregate net profit of ₹1.41 lakh crore in fiscal year 2023-24. This historic performance underscores the sector’s strong recovery, which is supported by a major increase in asset quality. The Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio fell dramatically, down to 3.12% in September 2024. In the first half of 2024-25, they had a net profit of ₹ 85,520 crore, indicating continuous growth. In addition to their excellent performance, PSBs have contributed significantly to shareholder returns, paying a total dividend of ₹61,964 crore over the last three years. This tremendous financial increase demonstrates the sector’s operating efficiency, higher asset quality, and stronger capital foundation. How the banking sector suffered as a result of massive non-performing assets generated during the Congress government Let’s go back before 2014 when PM Modi was not in power, many social media experts and politicians were not aware how these NPA’s generated. (Non-Performing Assets), as per RBI report and information given by FM Nirmala Sitharaman, Gross advances of the state owned bank increased from Rs 18.19 lakh crore in FY 2008 to Rs 52.16 lakh crore as on FY 2014 (before PM Modi). She also informed that this aggressive lending practices, wilful default, corruption in some cases and economic slowdown led to spurt in stressed assets. It was easier for PM Modi to come forward after being elected in May 2014 and release a white paper with facts and numbers on how the economy was given over to him, mentioning that he wouldn’t be able to do anything for the next five years. PM Modi is known for dealing with adversity and being a man of action. He decided to tackle this as a challenge and began working with then-FM Late Shri Arun Jaitley. He did the right thing by not hiding NPA but bringing it to the surface for action. Mentioning a few steps to understand the acts accomplished. The IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy code), SARFAESI (Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest) act and stressed asset management verticals... The government has taken comprehensive steps under it’s 4R’s strategy, Recognising NPA’s transparently Resolving and Recovering value from stressed accounts Recapitalising PSB’s Reforms in banks and financial ecosystem to ensure a responsible and clean system. These numerous approaches enabled the government recover Rs 3.59 lakh crore from PSBs by April 2019 and the Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) ratio fell dramatically, down to 3.12% in September 2024. Decline in GNPA: Strengthening PSB Resilience The Gross NPA ratio of Public Sector Banks has undergone a significant turnaround, decreasing to 3.12% in September 2024 from a peak of 14.58% in March 2018. This large drop indicates the success of focused actions to relieve stress in the banking sector. The Asset Quality Review (AQR), undertaken by the Reserve Bank of India in 2015, marked a watershed moment. This initiative sought to uncover and resolve latent stress in banks by requiring the transparent identification of NPAs. It also reclassified previously restructured loans as NPAs, causing a significant increase in reported NPAs. During this period, banks faced increased provisioning requirements that limited their ability to lend and assist productive industries.These were written off but ultimately recovered. As a result, do not confuse waive-off with written-off. The process is ongoing, and no one will be spared by PM Modi within the confines of the law of the land, which is why fear mongering and the creation of false news with distorted data are being distributed on many platforms to harm his reputation. Finally, this allows social media warriors to go extensively into the claims against PM Modi in order to uncover true evidence about prior corruption or malpractices committed by the bosses of false news providers. We are witnessing lot of mis-information being spread in social media about loan written off for big industrialists or people shown close to PM Modi by main stream media. The ultimate purpose is to show PM Modi is corrupt and dancing to the tunes of these biggies. Let’s understand the difference between written off and waive off in simple terms. If someone borrows Rs 100 from you this month but is unable to repay you during the fiscal year as promised, you will write off this amount from your balance sheet as per long-standing accounting practice (not discovered by PM Modi), but you will still pursue him to recover your money, and you may use legal action against him if he does not follow the agreement/contract. When you waive off a debt, you are entirely releasing him from the need to pay a specific sum, and there will be no legal penalties for the debtor. A loan waiver for farmers is an appropriate example. Beyond their financial accomplishments, these banks have played an important role in promoting financial inclusion. They have implemented critical government schemes, such as the Atal Pension Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, to name a few. These efforts have guaranteed that critical benefits reach underrepresented areas of society. The government of India has actively supported the sector with reforms, welfare initiatives, and strong policies. This has enhanced the banking system by promoting greater openness, stability, and inclusivity. PSBs continue to expand their presence across the country, hence increasing financial inclusion. Their stronger financial base and improved asset quality have allowed them to enter markets freely, lessening their need on government recapitalization. Here’s how PSBs and SCBs are promoting financial inclusion: Various key financial inclusion projects (PM Mudra, Stand-Up India, PM-SVANidhi, and PM Vishwakarma) have sanctioned. 54 crore Jan Dhan accounts and over 52 crore collateral-free loans. The number of bank branches has expanded from 1,17,990 in March 2014 to 1,60,501 in September 2024, with 1,00,686 located in Rural and Semi-Urban (RUSU) areas. The Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme attempts to offer farmers short-term agricultural financing. As of September 2024, the total number of operative KCC accounts was 7.71 crore, with a total outstanding of Rs. 9.88 lakh crore. The Government of India (GoI) has continually provided affordable loans to the MSME sector through a variety of initiatives. MSME advances have grown at a CAGR of 15 per cent over the last three years, with total advances as of March 31, 2024 standing at Rs. 28.04 lakh crore, or a 17.2 per cent annual growth rate. Scheduled Commercial Banks’ gross advances climbed from Rs. 8.5 lakh crore to Rs. 61 lakh crore between 2004 and 2014, and have since expanded significantly to Rs. 175 lakh crore by March 2024. In recent years, India’s public sector banks have made amazing progress, reaching new financial milestones and considerably contributing to the country’s economic stability and growth. The decrease in Gross Non-Performing Assets (GNPA) and the improvement in Capital to Risk (Weighted) Assets Ratio (CRAR) demonstrate the sector’s resilience and good risk management methods. The EASE framework has been critical in implementing changes, encouraging cautious lending, and leveraging technology to improve banking services. The focus on financial inclusion has increased access to banks, providing millions with affordable credit and insurance. PSBs, with a stronger financial foundation and enhanced asset quality, are well-positioned to contribute to India’s development agenda and drive inclusive growth.Fire Country Season 3 Episode 9: Date and time | When will new episodes be available?From wealth and success to murder suspect, the life of Luigi Mangione took a hard turn
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Seoul, Dec 30 (IANS): World leaders have expressed condolences and solidarity with South Korea after the tragic airplane crash in Muan claimed more than 170 lives. In a statement released by the White House, US President Joe Biden on Sunday expressed his grief over the accident and pledged support to South Korea. "Jill and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life that occurred as a result of the Jeju Airlines accident in Muan, South Korea. As close allies, the American people share deep bonds of friendship with the South Korean people, and our thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by this tragedy. The US stands ready to provide any necessary assistance," the White House statement said. Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru extended his sympathies to the bereaved families on behalf of the government and the people of Japan. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of many precious lives due to the airplane accident that occurred in South Korea. On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I wish to express my sincere condolences for the loss of life and send my deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. My thoughts go out to all those who were injured, and I sincerely hope they will make a swift recovery," the statement from the Office of the Prime Minister of Japan said. India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, also expressed deep sorrow over the airplane crash. David Lammy, the United Kingdom's Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, and Penny Wong, Australia's Minister for Foreign Affairs, offered their condolences on the tragic accident. Chinese President Xi Jinping said he was "shocked" to learn of the crash, in a message to South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok. "I express our deep condolences to the victims, sincere sympathy for the victims' families, and wish those injured a speedy recovery," he said, quoted by China's state broadcaster CCTV. In a statement late on December 29, a spokesperson for Singapore's Foreign Affairs Ministry said: "The Singapore Government is saddened by the news of the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216 on December 29, 2024. We convey our deepest condolences to the government of South Korea and the families and loved ones of those who have perished. We wish the survivors a full recovery." "We are in contact with the South Korean authorities and there were no reports of Singaporeans on board the flight." EU Chief Ursula von der Leyen said she was "heartbroken to see images of the plane crash in Muan". "As your partner, Europe stands with you in this time of grief," the European Commission President said. Pope Francis, who visited South Korea a decade ago, told worshippers at the Vatican he joins "in prayer for the survivors and the dead". "My thoughts are with the many families in South Korea who are mourning today following the dramatic plane crash," Pope Francis said. France's Foreign Ministry said that Paris learnt "with great emotion the terrible toll" and sends condolences to the affected families. Germany's President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said the crash is "yet another blow to the nation's heart" after "a difficult period" -- alluding to weeks of political turmoil in Seoul. "This is an incredible loss and pain" for the friends and families of those killed, Steinmeier said. "Profoundly saddened by the tragic incident," Greece's Foreign Affairs Ministry said on X, sending condolences "during this difficult time". Earlier, the South Korean authorities confirmed that 179 people were killed and two people were rescued out of 181 aboard following a plane crash in South Korea's Muan region, Yonhap news agency reported. The incident occurred on Sunday morning when a Jeju Air passenger jet, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, belly-landed and exploded at Muan International Airport, the Yonhap news agency reported. The aircraft veered off the runway while landing, with its landing gear not deployed, skidding across the ground, hitting a concrete wall, and bursting into flames. South Korea's acting President Choi Sang-mok, also declared Muan County a special disaster zone and visited the crash site to direct search operations. Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae further issued an apology and expressed condolences to the victims' families, taking full responsibility for the incident. The airline has promised full support for the surviving families, including financial assistance, citing its $1 billion insurance plan. "Regardless of the cause, I take full responsibility as the CEO," Kim said.[OPINION] Navigating the pitfalls of domestic politics: AFP’s role in a state in distress
Nikki Kaye was an MP for Auckland Central. Photo: RNZ A close friend of Kaye's, who did not want to be named, told RNZ she passed away after a long battle with cancer. Prime Minster Christopher Luxon and Deputy Leader of the National Party Nicola Willis led tributes for the MP, describing her today as a "cherished colleague and friend". Kaye represented the Auckland Central electorate and had been a deputy leader during her time at Parliament. “Nikki’s contribution to our party, her community, and New Zealand has left an indelible mark. Her tireless dedication, sharp intellect, and tenacity earned her the respect of people across the political spectrum,” Mr Luxon said in a statement this morning. “Nikki was a remarkable person and a crusader for what she believed in, and her contribution has left our country in a better place.” Willis said Kaye was one of the bravest Parliamentarians New Zealand has seen. "She was not only a colleague, but a brilliant friend to many of us. She was fiercely committed to her constituents and her values and she contributed so much of her soul to this country party and our party. “Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time." Devastating news. Nikki was one of the bravest parliamentarians New Zealand has had, fiercely advancing the liberal values and causes she believed in. She loved the National Party and contributed so much of her soul to it. I will be forever grateful for the contribution she made... — Nicola Willis (@NicolaWillisMP) November 25, 2024 Other colleagues also praised Kaye for her "caring heart" and "ferocious energy". Health Minister Dr Shane Reti said he was saddened by the news of her death. He said she made a valued contribution to education and he would miss her as a friend and colleague. Former National MP Maggie Barry posted on Facebook today a picture of them with the caption: "farewell my friend". Kaye was in Parliament for 12 years, entering in 2008 aged 28, before announcing in July 2020 she wouldn't contest the upcoming election. Kaye had worked for Bill English when he was Leader of the Opposition in 2002. In January 2013, she was appointed to Cabinet by then-Prime Minister Sir John Key, eventually holding ministerial (and associate) responsibilities for ACC, Civil Defence, Education, Food Safety, Immigration, Youth and Youth Affairs over the next seven years. In 2016, Kaye took leave after being diagnosed with breast cancer at 36 and returned to Parliament and her ministerial roles in 2017 after successful treatment. She held the electorate of Auckland Central during her entire time in Parliament, overthrowing Labour's Judith Tizard in 2008, and was the first National MP to win the electorate. She became the Deputy Leader of the National Party in May 2020 when Muller took over from Simon Bridges. A beautiful soul with a deeply caring heart fueled by a ferocious energy to serve her party, community and country often at the expense of her own health. I will miss her dearly. Rest in peace Nikki — Todd Muller (@toddmullerBoP) November 25, 2024 Kaye has always been more on the socially liberal side of the National Party, voting in favour of MP Louisa Wall's Marriage (Definition of Marriage) Amendment Act 2013, allowing same-sex couples to legally marry. In an interview with RNZ's Nine to Noon programme in 2020, Kaye spoke about having breast cancer. "The other thing is, being diagnosed with breast cancer, and I've not talked in detail about my health before, I don't see life as a situation whereby you can always plan things and my view is that you have to live every moment and I have given everything to the party and the country," she said in tears. "You have to know when your time is up and you've given it your all."
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AP 12:21 JST, December 30, 2024 TBILISI, Goergia (AP) — Former soccer player Mikheil Kavelashvili was formally inaugurated as president of Georgia on Sunday, cementing the ruling party’s grip in what the opposition calls a blow to the country’s EU aspirations and a victory for former imperial ruler Russia. Outgoing pro-Western Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili said Sunday morning that she would vacate her residence at the Orbeliani Palace in Tbilisi, but insisted she was still the legitimate office holder. “I will come out of here, come out to you and be with you. ... This presidential residence was a symbol as long as there was a president here who was legitimate. I bring legitimacy with me,” Zourabichvili told a crowd of supporters outside the palace. She called Kavelashvili’s inauguration a “parody.” Kavelashvili, 53, who was the only candidate on the ballot, easily won the vote earlier in December given the Georgian Dream party’s control of a 300-seat electoral college that replaced direct presidential elections in 2017. It is made up of members of Parliament, municipal councils and regional legislatures. In his speech Sunday, Kavelashvili promised to be “everyone’s president, regardless of whether they like me or not.” He called for the nation to unite behind him around “shared values, the principles of mutual respect, and the future we should build together.” Georgian Dream retained control of Parliament in the South Caucasus nation in an Oct. 26 election that the opposition alleges was rigged with Moscow’s help. The party has vowed to continue pushing toward accession in the European Union but also wants to “reset” ties with Russia. Georgia’s outgoing president and main pro-Western parties have boycotted the post-election parliamentary sessions and demanded a rerun of the ballot. In 2008 Russia fought a brief war with Georgia, which led to Moscow’s recognition of two breakaway regions as independent, and an increase in the Russian military presence in South Ossetia and Abkhazia. Critics have accused Georgian Dream — established by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a shadowy billionaire who made his fortune in Russia — of becoming increasingly authoritarian and tilted toward Moscow, accusations the ruling party has denied. The party recently pushed through laws similar to those used by the Kremlin to crack down on freedom of speech and LGBTQ+ rights. Georgian Dream’s decision last month to suspend talks on their country’s bid to join the EU added to the opposition’s outrage and galvanized protests. Protesters in front of the parliament building on Sunday held red cards, in reference to Kavelashvili’s career in soccer. “Because today our president is a footballer, we are showing him a red card. The next step will be sending him off the pitch. The Georgian people will definitely do this, because it was a circus that they have held today in the parliament,” protester Sofia Shamanidi told The Associated Press. Zourabichvili, 72, was born in France to parents with Georgian roots and had a successful career with the French Foreign Ministry before President Mikheil Saakashvili named her Georgia’s top diplomat in 2004. Constitutional changes made the president’s job largely ceremonial before Zourabichvili was elected by popular vote with Georgian Dream’s support in 2018. She became sharply critical of the ruling party, accusing it of pro-Russia policies, and Georgian Dream unsuccessfully tried to impeach her. Zourabichvili has rejected government claims that the opposition was fomenting violence. “We are not demanding a revolution,” she told The Associated Press. “We are asking for new elections, but in conditions that will ensure that the will of the people will not be misrepresented or stolen again. Georgia’s opposition has mocked Kavelashvili for lacking higher education. He was a striker in the English Premier League for Manchester City and played for several clubs in the Swiss Super League. He was elected to Parliament in 2016 on the Georgian Dream ticket, and in 2022 co-founded the People’s Power political movement, which was allied with Georgian Dream and become known for its strong anti-Western rhetoric. Kavelashvili was one of the authors of a controversial law requiring organizations that receive more than 20% of their funding from abroad to register as “pursuing the interest of a foreign power,” similar to a Russian law used to discredit critical organizations. The EU, which granted Georgia candidate status in December 2023 on condition that the country meets the bloc’s recommendations, put its accession on hold and cut financial support in June following approval of the “foreign influence” law. Thousands of demonstrators converged on the parliament building every night after the government announced the suspension of EU accession talks on Nov. 28. Riot police used water cannons and tear gas almost daily to disperse and beat scores of protesters, some of whom threw fireworks at police officers and built barricades on the capital’s central boulevard. Hundreds were detained and over 100 treated for injuries. Several journalists were beaten by police and media workers accused authorities of using thugs to deter people from attending anti-government rallies, which Georgian Dream denies. The crackdown has drawn strong condemnation from the United States and EU officials.
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