vegas slots game

vegas slots game A glance at the recent history of the world's most developed nations reveals a compelling truth: no country has ever achieved sustainable development without first investing in education and research. The stories of South Korea, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Singapore stand as powerful testaments to this principle. These nations prioritized human capital development over physical infrastructure, understanding that educated minds and innovative ideas are the true engines of progress. Instead of focusing solely on roads, bridges, and skyscrapers, they built world-class educational institutions, fostered a culture of research, and invested in technology and knowledge-driven industries. This strategic approach enabled them to create self-sustaining economies with skilled workforces capable of driving innovation from within. Today, these countries are global leaders in manufacturing, technology, and advanced research — a testament to the transformative power of prioritizing education before infrastructure. Their success offers a clear lesson for other developing nations: lasting development is not built with bricks and mortar alone but with minds and ideas that shape the future. While Vietnam is currently following the proven path of prioritising education and research as the foundation for development, Bangladesh remains an exception. Over the past 14 years, Bangladesh has pursued a development strategy that places physical infrastructure ahead of human resource development. The fundamental flaw in this approach lies in its misplaced priorities — infrastructure requires skilled people to build, operate, and sustain it, not the other way around. By focusing on constructing nuclear power plants, satellites, bridges, and metro rail systems without first developing a pool of skilled local experts, Bangladesh has become heavily dependent on foreign engineers, consultants, and technology. These large-scale projects, financed by foreign loans, are operated and supervised by foreign experts, leaving little room for local capacity building. This approach creates a cycle of dependency, where the nation's pride in grand infrastructure is overshadowed by its reliance on external support. True progress lies in empowering local human capital, for it is skilled people who create self-reliant nations — not merely bricks, steel, and concrete. It is difficult to name a single country, other than Bangladesh, that has built a nuclear power plant using foreign loans and foreign supervision without having its own world-class nuclear physicists or engineers. Likewise, launching a national satellite without the backing of skilled, homegrown engineers is nearly unheard of. Consider India as a case in point. India's rise as a technological powerhouse was not accidental — it was the result of deliberate investment in human capital. Instead of rushing to build monumental infrastructure, India focused on creating a foundation of knowledge and expertise. The establishment of world-class educational and research institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) enabled the country to produce a generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. This approach allowed India to develop and launch its own satellites, build its metro systems, and develop its nuclear technology, all with minimal reliance on foreign expertise. The lesson is clear: a nation must first build its people before it builds its infrastructure. Without skilled human resources, infrastructure becomes a borrowed achievement — impressive to look at, but dependent and fragile at its core. Why Do We Need Institutes? The recent Nature Index ranking of the world's top 200 science cities offers a profound lesson in the power of education and research. Beijing holds the top spot, followed by Shanghai and New York, with five of the top 10 positions occupied by Chinese cities. This dominance is no coincidence. For over 30 years, China has relentlessly invested in education, research, and the development of world-class institutions. Today, multiple Chinese universities are counted among the world's top 20, reflecting the tangible returns on this long-term strategy. But the story doesn't end with China. In India, Kolkata has re-emerged as the country's No. 1 science city, ranking 84th globally — ahead of Bangalore (85th), Mumbai (98th), Delhi (124th), and Hyderabad (184th). Surprisingly, Kolkata also surpasses renowned scientific hubs like Tel Aviv, Uppsala, Glasgow, and Leipzig. How did this happen? The answer lies in the presence of well-established research institutions like the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), and Jadavpur University, which have cultivated a rich academic and research ecosystem. The success stories of Beijing, Shanghai, and Kolkata underscore a simple but vital truth: nations and cities that prioritise education and invest in top-tier institutes do not just compete — they lead. Institutes are not mere buildings; they are crucibles of innovation, talent, and discovery. Without them, no nation can hope to achieve lasting progress or global influence in science, technology, or industry. The Power of World-Class Research Institutions The backbone of any nation's scientific and technological progress lies in its research institutions. Take India, for example, where institutions like the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), S.N. Bose National Center for Basic Sciences, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), and Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics have played a pivotal role in propelling the country's scientific standing. These institutions boast world-class researchers, robust PhD and postdoctoral programs, attractive research facilities, competitive salaries for scholars, and collaborative research environments. Their contributions are consistently recognized in leading international journals like Physical Review Letters, Nature, and Science, underscoring their global impact. In stark contrast, Bangladesh does not have a single world-class research institute. The absence of strong PhD and postdoctoral programs and a limited pool of internationally competitive researchers has hindered the country's ability to make a mark in the global scientific arena. This is a critical gap in development strategy. Nations like the United States became superpowers not merely because of natural resources but because they built educational and research giants like MIT, Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Caltech, and Stanford. Similarly, South Korea has the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Japan has the National Institute of Natural Sciences, and India has the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). Even Vietnam, once seen as a developing nation, has established advanced research institutions and is already reaping the benefits. The lesson is clear: nations that prioritise education and research institutions create a self-sustaining cycle of innovation, skilled human resources, and technological independence. For Bangladesh to break free from its reliance on foreign expertise and loans for major projects, it must invest in building its own world-class research institutions. Without them, the dream of self-sufficiency in science, technology, and industry will remain out of reach. What About Bangladesh's Universities? Bangladesh currently has around 150 universities, but do we have enough competent faculty members to staff even 50 of them? The shortage of qualified teachers is a critical issue that threatens the quality of education in the country. In addition to these universities, over 800 colleges under the National University offer honors and master's degrees, essentially functioning as universities themselves. For perspective, consider Imperial College London — though it is called a "college," it ranks among the world's top 10 universities due to its world-class faculty and research resources. In Bangladesh, however, there is a growing trend to convert large colleges into universities under the misguided belief that a name change alone will ensure academic excellence. But where are the qualified teachers to support this expansion? Without creating a robust pipeline of highly trained faculty members, no university can hope to achieve world-class status. Bangladesh needs to focus on developing world-class research institutes that can train scholars who will eventually become the next generation of professors. The key to this transformation lies in nurturing excellence, not merely expanding quantity. What Kind of Institute Do We Need? To build a world-class research institute, Bangladesh needs to create an environment conducive to deep thinking, research, and reflection. Here's a vision for what such an institute should look like: • Natural Setting: The institute should be designed like a serene park, filled with trees, birdsong, and tranquil spaces. Research and creativity thrive in natural, peaceful environments. • Collaborative Spaces: Outdoor benches under trees where researchers can reflect and engage in deep intellectual conversations should be a feature of the campus. Genius often emerges from moments of quiet reflection. • Comfortable Accommodation: The institute should have a world-class guest house to host visiting scholars from abroad. Comfortable accommodation is essential to attract and retain international collaborators. • State-of-the-Art Research Facilities: Advanced research infrastructure like supercomputer laboratories are essential to attract the best researchers, both local and foreign. Cutting-edge equipment and modern technology are prerequisites for high-impact research. • Residency Programmes: The institute should invite top Bangladeshi researchers from abroad to return to the country for 2-3 months a year. This would create a dynamic research environment where local and international researchers can collaborate on high-impact projects. In addition, the institute should invite foreign scholars, and organise schools and conferences around the year. • Degree it may offer: The institute will offer world-class MS and PhD degrees. It must have its own renowned resident scientists and world-class post-docs. These resident scientists, post-docs together with guest scientists will supervise PhD and take classes at the graduate levels. How Will This Help Bangladesh? Supply of Teachers for Universities: With strong PhD and postdoctoral programs, the institute will create a continuous pipeline of highly qualified faculty members for universities and colleges. This will address Bangladesh's chronic shortage of competent university teachers. Attracting Global Talent: By establishing world-class facilities and offering competitive research opportunities, Bangladeshi researchers living abroad will be more inclined to return, even for short-term assignments. Additionally, international scholars can be invited to join collaborative research projects. Promoting Research Publications: If the institute fosters research that is published in top-tier journals like Nature and Science, Bangladesh's visibility in the global scientific community will increase. This recognition can attract international grants and partnerships. Postdoctoral Programs: Strong postdoctoral programs will ensure that PhD graduates remain in Bangladesh, contributing to local innovation instead of seeking better opportunities abroad. This will help retain the country's brightest minds. Fostering a Research Ecosystem: The creation of this institute will spark an ecosystem of collaborative research and innovation. Such a research ecosystem has the potential to drive progress in various sectors, from technology to healthcare, ultimately benefiting the entire nation. Instead of focusing solely on physical infrastructure, Bangladesh must prioritise human infrastructure. No nation has ever achieved sustainable development without first investing in education, research, and knowledge creation. Countries like China, South Korea, India, and Vietnam have all demonstrated this path to progress. Without world-class research institutes, Bangladesh will remain dependent on foreign expertise for major development projects like nuclear power plants, satellites, and metro rail systems. Bangladesh must establish at least one world-class institute for natural or fundamental sciences to achieve truly sustainable development. Such an institute would act as a hub for nurturing the next generation of scholars, engineers, and innovators. While this path may not yield immediate results, it will, over time, produce a self-sufficient, knowledge-driven nation capable of sustainable and independent development. Only through cultivating human potential can Bangladesh achieve the status of a truly developed nation. Kamrul Hassan is a professor in the Department of Physics at Dhaka University. A glance at the recent history of the world's most developed nations reveals a compelling truth: no country has ever achieved sustainable development without first investing in education and research. The stories of South Korea, China, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Singapore stand as powerful testaments to this principle. These nations prioritized human capital development over physical infrastructure, understanding that educated minds and innovative ideas are the true engines of progress. Instead of focusing solely on roads, bridges, and skyscrapers, they built world-class educational institutions, fostered a culture of research, and invested in technology and knowledge-driven industries. This strategic approach enabled them to create self-sustaining economies with skilled workforces capable of driving innovation from within. Today, these countries are global leaders in manufacturing, technology, and advanced research — a testament to the transformative power of prioritizing education before infrastructure. Their success offers a clear lesson for other developing nations: lasting development is not built with bricks and mortar alone but with minds and ideas that shape the future. While Vietnam is currently following the proven path of prioritising education and research as the foundation for development, Bangladesh remains an exception. Over the past 14 years, Bangladesh has pursued a development strategy that places physical infrastructure ahead of human resource development. The fundamental flaw in this approach lies in its misplaced priorities — infrastructure requires skilled people to build, operate, and sustain it, not the other way around. By focusing on constructing nuclear power plants, satellites, bridges, and metro rail systems without first developing a pool of skilled local experts, Bangladesh has become heavily dependent on foreign engineers, consultants, and technology. These large-scale projects, financed by foreign loans, are operated and supervised by foreign experts, leaving little room for local capacity building. This approach creates a cycle of dependency, where the nation's pride in grand infrastructure is overshadowed by its reliance on external support. True progress lies in empowering local human capital, for it is skilled people who create self-reliant nations — not merely bricks, steel, and concrete. It is difficult to name a single country, other than Bangladesh, that has built a nuclear power plant using foreign loans and foreign supervision without having its own world-class nuclear physicists or engineers. Likewise, launching a national satellite without the backing of skilled, homegrown engineers is nearly unheard of. Consider India as a case in point. India's rise as a technological powerhouse was not accidental — it was the result of deliberate investment in human capital. Instead of rushing to build monumental infrastructure, India focused on creating a foundation of knowledge and expertise. The establishment of world-class educational and research institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) enabled the country to produce a generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators. This approach allowed India to develop and launch its own satellites, build its metro systems, and develop its nuclear technology, all with minimal reliance on foreign expertise. The lesson is clear: a nation must first build its people before it builds its infrastructure. Without skilled human resources, infrastructure becomes a borrowed achievement — impressive to look at, but dependent and fragile at its core. Why Do We Need Institutes? The recent Nature Index ranking of the world's top 200 science cities offers a profound lesson in the power of education and research. Beijing holds the top spot, followed by Shanghai and New York, with five of the top 10 positions occupied by Chinese cities. This dominance is no coincidence. For over 30 years, China has relentlessly invested in education, research, and the development of world-class institutions. Today, multiple Chinese universities are counted among the world's top 20, reflecting the tangible returns on this long-term strategy. But the story doesn't end with China. In India, Kolkata has re-emerged as the country's No. 1 science city, ranking 84th globally — ahead of Bangalore (85th), Mumbai (98th), Delhi (124th), and Hyderabad (184th). Surprisingly, Kolkata also surpasses renowned scientific hubs like Tel Aviv, Uppsala, Glasgow, and Leipzig. How did this happen? The answer lies in the presence of well-established research institutions like the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), and Jadavpur University, which have cultivated a rich academic and research ecosystem. The success stories of Beijing, Shanghai, and Kolkata underscore a simple but vital truth: nations and cities that prioritise education and invest in top-tier institutes do not just compete — they lead. Institutes are not mere buildings; they are crucibles of innovation, talent, and discovery. Without them, no nation can hope to achieve lasting progress or global influence in science, technology, or industry. The Power of World-Class Research Institutions The backbone of any nation's scientific and technological progress lies in its research institutions. Take India, for example, where institutions like the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (IACS), S.N. Bose National Center for Basic Sciences, Indian Statistical Institute (ISI), Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), and Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics have played a pivotal role in propelling the country's scientific standing. These institutions boast world-class researchers, robust PhD and postdoctoral programs, attractive research facilities, competitive salaries for scholars, and collaborative research environments. Their contributions are consistently recognized in leading international journals like Physical Review Letters, Nature, and Science, underscoring their global impact. In stark contrast, Bangladesh does not have a single world-class research institute. The absence of strong PhD and postdoctoral programs and a limited pool of internationally competitive researchers has hindered the country's ability to make a mark in the global scientific arena. This is a critical gap in development strategy. Nations like the United States became superpowers not merely because of natural resources but because they built educational and research giants like MIT, Harvard, Princeton, Yale, Caltech, and Stanford. Similarly, South Korea has the Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Japan has the National Institute of Natural Sciences, and India has the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR). Even Vietnam, once seen as a developing nation, has established advanced research institutions and is already reaping the benefits. The lesson is clear: nations that prioritise education and research institutions create a self-sustaining cycle of innovation, skilled human resources, and technological independence. For Bangladesh to break free from its reliance on foreign expertise and loans for major projects, it must invest in building its own world-class research institutions. Without them, the dream of self-sufficiency in science, technology, and industry will remain out of reach. What About Bangladesh's Universities? Bangladesh currently has around 150 universities, but do we have enough competent faculty members to staff even 50 of them? The shortage of qualified teachers is a critical issue that threatens the quality of education in the country. In addition to these universities, over 800 colleges under the National University offer honors and master's degrees, essentially functioning as universities themselves. For perspective, consider Imperial College London — though it is called a "college," it ranks among the world's top 10 universities due to its world-class faculty and research resources. In Bangladesh, however, there is a growing trend to convert large colleges into universities under the misguided belief that a name change alone will ensure academic excellence. But where are the qualified teachers to support this expansion? Without creating a robust pipeline of highly trained faculty members, no university can hope to achieve world-class status. Bangladesh needs to focus on developing world-class research institutes that can train scholars who will eventually become the next generation of professors. The key to this transformation lies in nurturing excellence, not merely expanding quantity. What Kind of Institute Do We Need? To build a world-class research institute, Bangladesh needs to create an environment conducive to deep thinking, research, and reflection. Here's a vision for what such an institute should look like: • Natural Setting: The institute should be designed like a serene park, filled with trees, birdsong, and tranquil spaces. Research and creativity thrive in natural, peaceful environments. • Collaborative Spaces: Outdoor benches under trees where researchers can reflect and engage in deep intellectual conversations should be a feature of the campus. Genius often emerges from moments of quiet reflection. • Comfortable Accommodation: The institute should have a world-class guest house to host visiting scholars from abroad. Comfortable accommodation is essential to attract and retain international collaborators. • State-of-the-Art Research Facilities: Advanced research infrastructure like supercomputer laboratories are essential to attract the best researchers, both local and foreign. Cutting-edge equipment and modern technology are prerequisites for high-impact research. • Residency Programmes: The institute should invite top Bangladeshi researchers from abroad to return to the country for 2-3 months a year. This would create a dynamic research environment where local and international researchers can collaborate on high-impact projects. In addition, the institute should invite foreign scholars, and organise schools and conferences around the year. • Degree it may offer: The institute will offer world-class MS and PhD degrees. It must have its own renowned resident scientists and world-class post-docs. These resident scientists, post-docs together with guest scientists will supervise PhD and take classes at the graduate levels. How Will This Help Bangladesh? Supply of Teachers for Universities: With strong PhD and postdoctoral programs, the institute will create a continuous pipeline of highly qualified faculty members for universities and colleges. This will address Bangladesh's chronic shortage of competent university teachers. Attracting Global Talent: By establishing world-class facilities and offering competitive research opportunities, Bangladeshi researchers living abroad will be more inclined to return, even for short-term assignments. Additionally, international scholars can be invited to join collaborative research projects. Promoting Research Publications: If the institute fosters research that is published in top-tier journals like Nature and Science, Bangladesh's visibility in the global scientific community will increase. This recognition can attract international grants and partnerships. Postdoctoral Programs: Strong postdoctoral programs will ensure that PhD graduates remain in Bangladesh, contributing to local innovation instead of seeking better opportunities abroad. This will help retain the country's brightest minds. Fostering a Research Ecosystem: The creation of this institute will spark an ecosystem of collaborative research and innovation. Such a research ecosystem has the potential to drive progress in various sectors, from technology to healthcare, ultimately benefiting the entire nation. Instead of focusing solely on physical infrastructure, Bangladesh must prioritise human infrastructure. No nation has ever achieved sustainable development without first investing in education, research, and knowledge creation. Countries like China, South Korea, India, and Vietnam have all demonstrated this path to progress. Without world-class research institutes, Bangladesh will remain dependent on foreign expertise for major development projects like nuclear power plants, satellites, and metro rail systems. Bangladesh must establish at least one world-class institute for natural or fundamental sciences to achieve truly sustainable development. Such an institute would act as a hub for nurturing the next generation of scholars, engineers, and innovators. While this path may not yield immediate results, it will, over time, produce a self-sufficient, knowledge-driven nation capable of sustainable and independent development. Only through cultivating human potential can Bangladesh achieve the status of a truly developed nation. Kamrul Hassan is a professor in the Department of Physics at Dhaka University.

NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stock indexes fell Thursday following some potentially discouraging data on the economy . The S&P 500 slipped 0.5% for its fourth loss in the last six days. It’s a pause for the index, which has been rallying toward one of its best years of the millennium . The Dow Jones Industrial Average lost 234 points, or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite sank 0.7% from its record set the day before. A report early in the morning said more U.S. workers applied for unemployment benefits last week than expected. A separate update, meanwhile, showed that inflation at the wholesale level, before it reaches U.S. consumers, was hotter last month than economists expected. Neither report points to imminent disaster, but they dilute one of the hopes that’s driven the S&P 500 to 57 all-time highs so far this year : Inflation is slowing enough to convince the Federal Reserve to keep cutting interest rates, while the economy is remaining solid enough to stay out of a recession. Of the two reports, the weaker update on the job market may be the bigger deal for the market, according to Chris Larkin, managing director, trading and investing, at E-Trade from Morgan Stanley. A surge in egg prices may have been behind the worse-than-expected inflation numbers. “One week doesn’t negate what has been a relatively steady stream of solid labor market data, but the Fed is primed to be sensitive to any signs of a softening jobs picture,” he said. Traders are widely expecting the Fed will ease its main interest rate at its meeting next week. If they’re correct, it would be a third straight cut by the Fed after it began lowering rates in September from a two-decade high. It’s hoping to support a slowing job market after getting inflation nearly all the way down to its 2% target. Lower rates would give a boost to the economy and to prices for investments, but they could also provide more fuel for inflation. A cut next week would have the Fed following other central banks, which lowered rates on Thursday. The European Central Bank cut rates by a quarter of a percentage point, as many investors expected, and the Swiss National Bank cut its policy rate by a steeper half of a percentage point. Following its decision, Switzerland’s central bank pointed to uncertainty about how U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s victory will affect economic policies, as well as about where politics in Europe is heading. Trump has talked up tariffs and other policies that could upend global trade. He rang the bell marking the start of trading at the New York Stock Exchange on Thursday to chants of “USA.” On Wall Street, Adobe fell 13.7% and was one of the heaviest weights on the market despite reporting stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. The company gave forecasts for profit and revenue in its upcoming fiscal year that fell a bit shy of analysts’. Warner Bros. Discovery soared 15.4% after unveiling a new corporate structure that separates its streaming business and film studios from its traditional television business. CEO David Zaslav said the move “enhances our flexibility with potential future strategic opportunities,” raising speculation about a spinoff or sale. Kroger rose 3.2% after saying it would get back to buying back its own stock now that its attempt to merge with Albertsons is off . Kroger’s board approved a program to repurchase up to $7.5 billion of its stock, replacing an existing $1 billion authorization. All told, the S&P 500 fell 32.94 points to 6,051.25. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 234.55 to 43,914.12, and the Nasdaq composite sank 132.05 to 19,902.84. In stock markets abroad, European indexes held relatively steady following the European Central Bank’s cut to rates. Asian markets were stronger. Indexes rose 1.2% in Hong Kong and 0.8% in Shanghai as leaders met in Beijing to set economic plans and targets for the coming year. South Korea’s Kospi rose 1.6% for its third straight gain of at least 1%, as it pulls back following last week’s political turmoil where its president briefly declared martial law. In the bond market, the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield rose to 4.33% from 4.27% late Wednesday. AP Business Writers Matt Ott and Elaine Kurtenbach contributed.

NDP ready to open 'gates' to pass Liberal GST holiday bill separate from $250 rebateThree American citizens imprisoned for years by China have been released and are returning to the United States, the White House said Wednesday, announcing a diplomatic agreement with Beijing in the final months of the Biden administration. The three are Mark Swidan, Kai Li and John Leung, all of whom had been designated by the U.S. government as wrongfully detained by China. Swidan had been facing a death sentence on drug charges while Li and Leung were imprisoned on espionage charges. “Soon they will return and be reunited with their families for the first time in many years,” the White House said in a statement. The release comes just two months after China freed David Lin, a Christian pastor from California who had spent nearly 20 years behind bars after being convicted of contract fraud. U.S.-China relations have been roiled for years over major disagreements between the world’s two largest economies on trade, human rights, the production of fentanyl precursors, security issues that include espionage and hacking, China’s aggressiveness toward Taiwan and its smaller neighbors in the South China Sea, and Beijing’s support for Russia’s military-industrial sector. The release of Americans deemed wrongfully detained in China has been a top agenda item in each conversation between the U.S. and China, and Wednesday’s development suggests a willingness by Beijing to engage with the outgoing Democratic administration before Republican President-elect Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January. Trump took significant actions against China on trade and diplomacy during his first term. He has pledged to continue those policies in his second term, leading to unease among many who fear that an all-out trade war will greatly affect the international economy and could spur potential Chinese military action against Taiwan. Still, the two countries have maintained a dialogue that has included a partial restoration of military-to-military contacts. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping met this month to discuss potential improvements. In a separate but related move, the State Department on Wednesday lowered its travel warning to China to “level two,” advising U.S. citizens to “exercise increased caution” from the norm when traveling to the mainland. The alert had previously been at “level three,” telling Americans they should “reconsider travel” to China in part because of the “risk of wrongful detention” of Americans. The new alert removes that wording but retains a warning that the Chinese government “arbitrarily enforces local laws, including exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries, without fair and transparent process under the law.” The Biden administration had raised the cases of the detained Americans with China in multiple meetings over the past several years, including this month when Biden spoke to Xi on during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Peru. Politico was first to report the men’s release, which it said was part of a prisoner swap with the U.S. The White House did not immediately confirm that any Chinese citizens had been returned home. Li, a Chinese immigrant who started an export business in the U.S., was detained in September 2016 after flying into Shanghai. He was placed under surveillance, interrogated without a lawyer and accused of providing state secrets to the FBI. A U.N. working group called his 10-year prison sentence arbitrary and his family said the charges were politically motivated. Leung was sentenced last year to life in prison on spying charges. He was detained in 2021, by the local bureau of China’s counterintelligence agency in the southeastern city of Suzhou after China had closed its borders and imposed tight domestic travel restrictions and social controls to fight the spread of COVID-19. After Leung's sentencing, the U.S. recommended — though without citing specific cases — that Americans reconsider traveling to China because of arbitrary law enforcement and exit bans and the risk of wrongful detentions. Swidan had been jailed for 12 years on a drug charge and, along with Li and Leung, had considered by the State Department to be wrongfully detained.

MADRID (AP) — Spanish King Felipe VI used his traditional Christmas Eve speech to remember the victims of the catastrophic Valencia flash floods , and urged the country to remain calm while addressing hot-button issues such as immigration and housing affordability. In a pre-recorded speech that usually reviews the year's most relevant issues, Felipe said Spain “must never forget the pain and sadness" the floods caused. The Oct. 29 floods killed more than 225 people in eastern Spain, damaging countless homes and leaving graveyards of cars piled on top of each other. In some towns, the heavy downpours that caused the floods dropped as much as a year's worth of rain in just eight hours. In early November, as Spaniards' shock at the wreckage turned into frustration, a political blame game began, directed especially at regional authorities who failed to send timely emergency alerts to cell phones on the day of the floods. The frustration of residents in hard-hit Paiporta near Valencia was on display when people tossed mud and shouted insults at the king and government officials in early November when they made their first visit to the town. “We have seen — and understood — the frustration, the pain, the impatience, the demands for greater and more effective coordination," Felipe said about how the disaster was managed. He also addressed the country's housing crunch and high rents, which have become a leading concern in the southern European country that is the eurozone's fourth-largest economy. Fast-rising rents are especially acute in cities like Barcelona and Madrid, where incomes have failed to keep up, especially for younger people in a country with chronically high unemployment. Felipe urged that “all the actors involved reflect” and "listen to each other” so that they facilitate bringing access to housing under “affordable conditions.” Spain's immigration debate should keep in mind the country's European partners and immigrants' countries of origin, Felipe said, warning that “the way in which we are able to address immigration ... will say a lot in the future about our principles and the quality of our democracy.” Felipe said Spain needed to remain calm in the public sphere, even in the face of a “sometimes thunderous” contest in its politics.Playing Nuclear Chicken

Aaron Rodgers has not yet spoken to New York Jets owner Woody Johnson over his future with the AFC East franchise following his horrendous 2024 season. After returning from a torn Achilles injury that derailed his debut season with the Jets, Rodgers has struggled immensely. Following a loss to the Los Angeles Rams last week, the Jets fell to 4-11 - a far cry from preseason predictions that had them going to the Super Bowl . There’s no two ways about it: 2024 has been a colossal failure of a campaign - and Rodgers has played a key role. His performances have been subpar; he has thrown for 3,511 yards and 24 touchdowns with 8 interceptions, compiling a career-low 90.8 rating. Aaron Rodgers faces bleak New York Jets reality as Davante Adams problem highlighted NFL announces schedule changes in brutal Dallas Cowboys reality check Given his poor performances and age, as well as another change of regime in New York, there is speculation suggesting Rodgers could depart the Jets in the offseason. When asked if owner Johnson wants him back, the 41-year-old said: “You should ask Woody.” Rodgers also confirmed he has not spoken with Johnson about his future with the franchise. He added he’d be “surprised” if such a discussion takes place, admitting the process is likely to take some time. He explained: “[There are] so many uncertainties. There's a GM that has to get hired, I would assume first, and then he's going to be a part of hiring the head coach. “And then so I have to be in the plans of multiple people, starting with the ownership and then the GM and then the head coach. So that's why to me, that would not be a conversation I'm expecting anytime soon until those things are in place.” Back in April 2023 amid plenty of speculation, the Jets completed a sensational trade with the Green Bay Packers to secure the services of the four-time MVP. Rodgers - as well as the 15th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and a fifth-round selection - moved to New York in exchange for the 2023 13th overall pick, a 2023 second-round pick (no.42), a sixth-round pick (no.207) and a conditional second-round pick. Follow us on X for the best and latest in sports news Rodgers enjoyed 18 years as a member of the Packers - winning Super Bowl XLV - after he was drafted in 2005. However, the Jets and the NFC North franchise were engaged in trade talks after it became clear Green Bay was willing to move off Rodgers and progress with Jordan Love in 2023 and beyond. However, Rodgers’ New York dream turned into a nightmare just four snaps into his much-anticipated debut. On the opening drive of his Jets career against the Buffalo Bills , Rodgers was sacked by Leonard Floyd with the veteran quarterback tearing his Achilles in the process. Rodgers is questionable to feature in the Jets' penultimate game of the season. The 4-11 Jets take on the 12-3 Bills in an AFC East showdown on Sunday, Dec, 29. Want to watch more live sports? Peacock has your favorite sports, shows, and more all in one place. Peacock offers plans starting at $7.99 so you can stream live sports like NFL, Premier League, and Big Ten Football.Warnings of missed opportunities ahead of next year's Companies Act reformsColumbia, a perennial football loser, wins Ivy League title for first time since 1961

Eagles QB Tanner McKee gets 1st career TD football back with a little help from fans in the standsJoe Binz Appointed to Paycom’s Board of Directors

Albany scores 24 4th-quarter points to overtake Hampton 41-34‘First Buddy’ Elon Musk accuses Trump impeachment witness of ‘treason’ and calls for ‘appropriate penalty’AP Trending SummaryBrief at 5:59 p.m. EST

IOWA CITY — Iowa hosts Nebraska in Black Friday’s Heroes Game with the Huskers above the six-win bowl eligibility plateau for the first time since 2016. Nebraska (6-5, 3-5 Big Ten) beat Wisconsin, 44-25, on Saturday, ending a four-game losing streak and the longest stretch without a bowl appearance (7 years) among Power 5 programs. Iowa's Zach VanValkenburg hoists the Heroes Trophy after defeating Nebraska on Friday. Hawkeye head coach Kirk Ferentz sees the victory and opportunity to participate in a bowl game as clear evidence of the Huskers “turning the corner” under second-year head coach Matt Rhule. “Nebraska is coming off a really good home win against Wisconsin,” Ferentz said. “(They are) playing really well. Made them bowl eligible ... It is a credit to Coach Rhule, his staff, his players, for the job they did in two short years.” Iowa (7-4, 5-3 Big Ten) previously dashed Big Red’s bowl hopes in 2023, Rhule’s first season, and 2019, beating Nebraska in Lincoln 13-10 and 27-24 to drop them from 5-6 to 5-7. Each of the previous six meetings between the two programs ended with a margin of victory within one score. “It is going to be a big challenge for us,” Ferentz said. “I know they are coming in her with confidence. We will have to be at our best Friday to be ready to go.” Ahead of Friday’s matchup, the 14 th meeting as Big Ten foes, Ferentz praised the construction of the Huskers’ roster. “(They have) done a good job of putting the team together, whether guys that were there, guys they recruited and guys in the transfer portal,” Ferentz said. Nebraska’s personnel reflect two different extremes on each side of the ball with an incredibly veteran defense and particularly youthful offense at key spots. On defense, Ferentz said the Huskers’ quality roster starts up front with fifth-year senior Nash Hutmacher and sixth-year senior Ty Robinson. “(They are) really aggressive on defense,” Ferentz said. “They have two defensive tackles that feel like they have been there forever. I think they have been there four or five years. Both have started a lot of games. They are showing it. They are strong and aggressive, really tough guys. That is really tough to block those guys inside.” According to Iowa offensive lineman Mason Richman, Ferentz highlighted Robinson and Hutmacher early in the week. “I know, when they wear the single digit, it means they are a pretty good player on the team,” Richman said. “They are really physical. We just have to limit them from getting going. We have had a couple good duels these past two years.” Ferentz also made note of the secondary, especially fifth-year senior Isaac Gifford. “They play a lot of people,” Ferentz said. “Their safeties are all good. They play three of them. No. 2 looks to be the leader. He is a really good football player on top of it.” Offensively, Ferentz picked out Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola, the No. 7 overall player in the 2024 recruiting class, and wide receiver Jacory Barney. “Quarterback is an outstanding player,” Ferentz said. “I cannot imagine there is a better freshman quarterback in the country. No. 17, receiver, return guy, is a true freshman as well. Really good, outstanding football players, very dynamic. “They have a good offensive football team, good at the skill positions, big, have some experience up front.” Defensive lineman Yahya Black described the contest as “old school, big time football.” “Nose-to-nose, maybe a little blood, but just pure violence and that is what it is going to be,” Black said. “It is just going to be a whole fight.” He also said it is important to generate pressure on Raiola. “Not just him, but any quarterback,” Black said. “Pressure — not even just sacks — but pressure on a quarterback makes a big difference in the game.” In 11 games, Raiola leads Big Ten freshmen with 2,405 passing yards and 12 touchdown with 10 interceptions. Although Cade McNamara and Brendan Sullivan returned to practice on Monday and Tuesday, Kirk Ferentz said he hopes to roll with one quarterback against Nebraska on Friday — Jackson Stratton. Iowa head coach Kirk Ferentz discusses the uncertainty at quarterback and the Hawkeyes' upcoming game against Nebraska during a midweek media availability on Tuesday, Nov. 26. (Ethan Petrik/Quad-City Times) Iowa's Yahya Black discusses the defensive line's Thanksgiving plans and the Hawkeyes' upcoming game against Nebraska during a midweek media availability on Tuesday, Nov. 26. (Ethan Petrik/Quad-City Times) Get local news delivered to your inbox! University of Iowa Athletics Beat Reporter {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items.Pat Cummins causes stir with divisive act

Ringer-Verse Recommends: November 2024A chilling warning has been given by Ukraine’s former armed forces commander, telling the West that a " " against has already begun. Valeriy Zaluzhny, 51, commanded Ukrainian troops when they halted Putin’s army as it intended to storm Kyiv in three days. For many months he held back Russian troops along a vast frontline, but failed with a 2023 “summer offensive”. He now tells the West that the only way to save itself is by fully backing now, a different vision to that of incoming US president who wants to broker a deal between the warring parties involving Kyiv making territorial concessions to . Zaluzhny - now Ukraine’s ambassador to London - was asked at a Ukrainian Pravda awards ceremony if it was possible to avoid WW3. “Probably, you will not like my answer,” he said. “But I am a purely human being who knows military science and military history. I believe that in 2024 we can absolutely definitely consider that the Third World War has begun,” he said in a speech to a Ukrainian Pravda awards ceremony. Ukraine no longer faces only Russia, he said. “In front of Ukraine are soldiers from North Korea. Let's be honest — Iranian ‘Shaheds’ [kamikaze drones] are already killing civilians in Ukraine quite openly, without any shyness. “North Korean-made missiles are already flying into Ukraine, and they openly declare this. Kim Jong Un troops numbering some 10,000-pls are believed to be engaged against Ukraine’s forces in Russia’s Kursk region. Chinese shells are detonated in Ukraine. Chinese parts are used in Russian missiles.” Most military experts believe WW3 has started, said Zaluzhny. “What has been expected for so long, it has already begun,” he said. “But I want to say that God himself gives a chance, not only to Ukraine, but also to the whole world, so that now we still have time to reach the right conclusions. “Everything can still be stopped here, on the territory of Ukraine. But for some reason our [Western] partners do not want to understand this. It is obvious that Ukraine already has too many enemies. Ukraine will survive at the expense of technology, but it is unknown whether it will be able to win this battle on its own." Yet he was optimistic the West would rally to Ukraine, even as the next presidency of Donald Trump comes into view in January. “I believe that [regarding the start of] the World War, welcome - it has begun,” said Zaluzhny.Bryce Thompson scores 17 points and Oklahoma State beats Miami 80-74 in the Charleston Classic

Methode Electronics’ Board Approves DividendThe Boston Red Sox continued to rebuild their pitching staff, acquiring left-hander Jovani Morán on Tuesday from the Minnesota Twins for catcher and infielder Mickey Gasper . The 27-year-old Morán appeared in 79 games as a reliever for the Twins from 2021 to 2023, posting a 4.15 ERA, striking out 112 with 52 walks and holding opponents to a .208 batting average. He missed all of last season recovering from Tommy John surgery. He originally was chosen in the seventh round of the 2015 draft. In Gasper, the Twins are getting a 29-year-old who made his major league debut last season and appeared in 13 games with Boston. The switch-hitter was selected by the New York Yankees in the 27th round of the 2018 draft. He was picked by Boston in the minor league portion of the 2023 Rule 5 draft. The Red Sox and Twins both currently have 39 players on their 40-man rosters.Renowned actor Ahad Raza Mir has addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his alleged relationship with actress Rimsha Khan, asserting that he is under no obligation to explain his personal life to the public. In a candid interview with journalist Maleeha Rehman, the actor opened up about his career, upcoming projects and the ongoing speculation about his relationships. During the interview, Rehman posed a question about the viral pictures circulating on social media, which show Ahad Raza Mir and Rimsha Khan together, sparking widespread speculation about their relationship. Although the journalist refrained from directly naming Khan in the inquiry, the actor chose to remain equally reserved, offering a general response about his personal life. Mir stated, “I don’t feel the need to explain to anyone whether I am living alone or in a relationship with someone. I am used to and support keeping my personal life private. It’s my choice not to bring it into the public eye.” The actor stressed that he does not believe people should be concerned with the details of his personal life and that they are free to form opinions based on the pictures and videos they see online. The actor also made it clear that he does not wish to engage in media discussions about his relationships, reinforcing his stance on maintaining privacy in an industry that often blurs the lines between personal and public lives. The rumors linking Ahad Raza Mir with Ramsha Khan have gained traction over recent months, particularly after several photographs and videos emerged showing the two actors in London, where they were also honored with the Best On-Screen Pair award at the Hum Awards. The videos depicted the pair in close proximity, even holding hands, fueling speculation about a romantic connection. However, neither Mir nor Khan has officially commented on these rumors. Mir’s comments come in the wake of reports suggesting a rift between him and his former wife, actress Sajal Aly. The two married in March 2022, but rumors of their divorce have been circulating for some time. Despite the ongoing speculation, both Ahad Raza Mir and Sajal Aly have refrained from commenting on the status of their relationship, maintaining a veil of silence on the matter.

On April 1, four years ago, piqued by the incessant jokes in the village at his expense, Bandu Barve decided he’d had enough. It was time for him to turn ‘smart’. His dead granny’s voice rang in his ears — “Read the papers, Bandya, they tell you all.” So, off went Bandu to the stash of newspapers on his father’s desk. As luck would have it, the first paper Bandu got his hands on was The Hindu businessline . The stock recos, in particular, had him in thrall. Soon, Bandu metamorphosed into an ace investor and trader. These days, Bandu picks five stocks each Sunday, which he believes will be blockbusters over the next week. Here’s your chance to match step with Bandu. Guess the stock that will give the best return by next Friday (BSE prices). By this Wednesday noon, mail us your pick and its expected price rise to bandublockbuster@gmail.com with your name, mobile number and address. One lucky winner will get a prize of ₹2,000. To know the winner selection process, please click: https://tinyurl.com/Bandu-selection Bandu’s picks One 97 Communications NALCO Phoenix Mills NLC India V.I.P. Industries Last week’s winner: Ajay V Menon Last week’s winning stock: Indian Hotels Closing price (Nov 14): ₹1,831.05 Closing price (Nov 22): ₹1,864 Return: 7.85 per cent Comments

A commemorative year draws to a close in an ideal way for honoring the anniversary of the establishment of the Third Hellenic Republic, by resolving one final footnote of history: the administrative matter of restoring Greek citizenship to the former royal family. While this event may no longer carry political significance, it holds powerful symbolic value. It affirms that our post-dictatorship democracy has overcome old animosities. It has also achieved a level of stability envied even by the most mature Western democracies. As 2024 draws to a close, it is time to recognize our institutional achievements as a collective success, without bitterness.

NoneLongest-lived US president was always happy to speak his mind