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Indonesia and Japan Pledge Stronger Defense and Economic Cooperation Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Diplomat Times
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Indonesia and Japan Pledge Stronger Defense and Economic Cooperation Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Indonesia and Japan Pledge Stronger Defense and Economic Ties Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Bogor, Indonesia — Japan and Indonesia committed on Saturday to enhancing economic and defense collaboration during Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s visit, highlighting regional cooperation as China asserts its influence and Donald Trump prepares to assume the U.S. presidency.

Ishiba arrived in Jakarta on Friday following a visit to Kuala Lumpur, where he met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He expressed his intention to meet with Trump soon after the U.S. president’s Jan. 20 inauguration to emphasize the strategic importance of engaging with the Indo-Pacific region.

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“I don’t know how much interest Mr. Trump has in this region until I actually talk with him,” Ishiba said. “But I am convinced that diplomatic engagement here is crucial for both Japan and America.”

Japan positioned itself as a steadfast advocate of a rules-based international order, contrasting with China’s assertive territorial claims in the South China Sea. Ishiba stressed that “any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo by force or coercion is unacceptable anywhere in the world.”

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, right, shakes hands with Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba during a joint press conference after their meeting at Bogor Presidential Palace in Bogor, West Java, Indonesia, Saturday, Jan. 11, 2025. (AP Photo/Achmad Ibrahim)

During his meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto at the Bogor presidential palace, Ishiba pledged support for Indonesia’s efforts toward food and energy self-sufficiency, defense development, and industrialization of natural resources, including strategic mineral mining. He also promised assistance in providing nutritious meals to Indonesian schoolchildren and expressed Japan’s support for Indonesia’s bid to join the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

The two nations signed an agreement for a Japanese loan of up to 90.4 billion yen ($573 million) to fund projects, including the construction of a new port at Patimban, aimed at improving Indonesia’s transportation and distribution networks.

“Indonesia has a desire to maintain good relations with all nations to contribute to an atmosphere that can reduce tensions between major countries,” Subianto said.

While Indonesia does not have a formal territorial dispute with China, it has repeatedly clashed with Beijing over incursions into its exclusive economic zone. In October, Indonesian patrol ships drove a Chinese coast guard vessel away from an area where an Indonesian energy company was conducting a seismic survey.

On defense, the leaders agreed to initiate discussions on maritime security, defense equipment technology cooperation, and joint naval ship development. Under Japan’s current defense guidelines, it cannot export completed frigates or submarines, but technology transfer remains a key focus.

Despite its policy of nonalignment in the rivalry between Washington and Beijing, Indonesia has voiced concerns over escalating regional security tensions. Ishiba’s visit underscores Japan’s commitment to fostering partnerships with Southeast Asian nations amid these challenges.

SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Elon Musk and Giorgia Meloni’s Growing Alliance Sparks Controversy in Italy

Shasi Kumar
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Elon Musk and Giorgia Meloni’s Growing Alliance Sparks Controversy in Italy

Rome, Italy — Elon Musk, the billionaire entrepreneur and CEO of companies like Tesla and SpaceX, has sparked controversy in Italy following his emerging friendship with Giorgia Meloni, the country’s right-wing Prime Minister.

The two influential figures have been seen publicly interacting, with their growing relationship fueling debates over political alignments, business interests, and the future of Italy’s leadership.

The Nature of Their Relationship

Musk and Meloni’s connection reportedly began through mutual interests in technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. However, their relationship has evolved into something more personal, with Musk frequently praising Meloni’s leadership and her stance on various issues, including economic policy and national sovereignty. Meloni, in turn, has expressed admiration for Musk’s business acumen and his impact on global industries.

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The two have exchanged public messages and met in private settings, which has caught the attention of both Italian citizens and the international community. While their friendship is seen by some as a positive alignment between business and politics, others have raised concerns about the influence of global business moguls on national governance.

The Controversy

The growing ties between the tech mogul and Italy’s far-right leader have divided public opinion. Supporters of Meloni argue that collaborating with Musk could bring valuable investment and technological advancements to Italy, helping to bolster the nation’s economic and industrial strength.

However, critics, especially from left-wing factions and civil rights groups, fear that Musk’s influence may overshadow democratic processes and exacerbate Italy’s political polarization. Many view his close relationship with Meloni as a dangerous precedent, where corporate power and political authority intertwine, potentially undermining Italy’s sovereignty and democratic values.

Additionally, Musk’s history of controversial statements and actions, particularly regarding his companies and his stance on certain social issues, has added fuel to the debate. His association with a far-right political leader has led some to question whether this could mark a shift in Italy’s political landscape toward more business-friendly, populist policies.

Impact on Italy’s Political Climate

Meloni’s alliance with Musk could have significant implications for Italy’s political future. The Prime Minister has already faced criticism for her nationalist policies, and her friendship with Musk has raised questions about the role of global elites in shaping national agendas. Some worry that Italy’s direction could be heavily influenced by the priorities of powerful, profit-driven figures like Musk, rather than the needs of the Italian people.

Meanwhile, Meloni’s allies defend her decision to engage with Musk, arguing that his expertise in innovation and technology could be a boon for Italy’s economy, especially in sectors like renewable energy, space exploration, and advanced manufacturing.

Global Reactions

The pairing of Musk and Meloni has garnered global attention, sparking conversations about the intersection of politics and big business in the modern world. Their collaboration represents a broader trend of influential figures from diverse fields coming together to shape policies on a global scale.

However, the scrutiny surrounding their relationship is unlikely to fade soon. As Musk’s influence continues to grow internationally, and as Meloni’s political career evolves, this power friendship is expected to remain a point of contention both in Italy and on the world stage.

Looking Ahead

As the relationship between Elon Musk and Giorgia Meloni develops, it will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on Italy’s political and economic future. The question remains: will their partnership lead to a new era of prosperity for Italy, or will it further deepen political divisions and raise ethical concerns over the power of big business in politics? Only time will tell, but the world will be watching closely.

SOURCE : WP |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Nicolás Maduro Sworn in as President of Venezuela Amid Controversy Over Election Results

Diplomat Times
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Nicolás Maduro Sworn in as President of Venezuela Amid Controversy Over Election Results

Caracas, Venezuela — Pro-Chavéz leader Nicolás Maduro was sworn in on Friday as President of Venezuela for the 2025-2031 term by the National Assembly, which is controlled by the ruling party. The inauguration has deepened the ongoing political crisis, as the opposition claims that Edmundo González Urrutia was the legitimate winner of the presidential elections held last July.

Maduro’s Oath and Promises

During the swearing-in ceremony, Maduro took an oath on the original 1999 constitution, signed by the late President Hugo Chávez and approved by referendum. Addressing the assembly, he pledged a new era for the country:
“I swear before the historic, noble, and brave people of Venezuela and before this constitution that I will fulfill all its mandates. I inaugurate a new period of peace, prosperity, and new democracy,” Maduro stated.

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The ceremony was presided over by Jorge Rodríguez, President of the National Assembly, and attended by prominent figures, including Attorney General Tarek William Saab, Supreme Tribunal of Justice President Caryslia Rodríguez, National Electoral Council (CNE) President Elvis Amoroso, and Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López. Maduro was joined by his wife, Cilia Flores, and senior officials Delcy Rodríguez and Diosdado Cabello.

Disputed Election Results

Maduro was declared the winner of the July 28 presidential elections by the CNE. However, the council has yet to publish the detailed election results as previously promised, raising suspicions and fueling opposition claims of electoral fraud.

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro (r) greets supporters upon his arrival at the National Assembly headquarters in Caracas, Venezuela, Friday. January 10, 2025. Photo : Miraflores Palace via EFE

Opposition leaders have accused the ruling party of manipulating the election outcome, insisting that Edmundo González Urrutia secured a legitimate victory. Critics argue that the lack of transparency from the CNE and its failure to release comprehensive results undermines the credibility of the electoral process.

Loyalty of the Armed Forces

Minister of Defense Vladimir Padrino López has repeatedly declared the loyalty of the armed forces to Maduro’s leadership, further consolidating his grip on power. This allegiance from the military has been a crucial pillar of support for Maduro amid growing domestic and international criticism.

International and Domestic Reactions

Maduro’s inauguration has intensified divisions within Venezuela and drawn sharp criticism from the international community. While his supporters view his third term as a continuation of Chávez’s socialist vision, opposition groups and foreign observers see it as a blow to democracy.

The absence of detailed election results has added to the controversy, with calls from global watchdogs for transparency and accountability. International reactions remain mixed, with some countries recognizing Maduro’s leadership and others withholding recognition, citing concerns about the fairness of the elections.

What Lies Ahead?

As Nicolás Maduro embarks on his third term, Venezuela faces critical challenges, including a deep economic crisis, widespread poverty, and political unrest. The opposition’s allegations of electoral fraud and the lack of trust in democratic institutions continue to polarize the nation.

Observers now await the CNE’s publication of the detailed election results, which could either validate or further delegitimize Maduro’s presidency. Meanwhile, the opposition, led by González Urrutia, is expected to intensify its efforts to challenge Maduro’s rule, setting the stage for further political strife in the years ahead.

SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Attention PAN Card Holders! PIB Warns India Post Payments Bank Customers About Phishing Scams

Diplomat Times
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Attention PAN Card Holders! PIB Warns India Post Payments Bank Customers About Phishing Scams

New Delhi, India   — The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a critical alert to PAN card holders and customers of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) regarding a phishing scam that has been targeting unsuspecting individuals. Reports have surfaced that scammers are sending fake messages to IPPB customers, falsely claiming that their bank accounts will be blocked within 24 hours if they do not update their PAN card details.

The Phishing Scam in Detail

The fraudulent messages include suspicious links designed to mislead recipients into visiting scam websites. Once there, unsuspecting users are tricked into sharing sensitive personal information, such as their banking credentials and PAN details. These phishing techniques aim to exploit individuals’ trust and lack of awareness to steal their private data.

What Did PIB Say About the PAN Card Scam?

The Press Information Bureau has categorically debunked these messages as fake. It has clarified that India Post does not send such alerts and has no involvement in these phishing activities. India Post has urged the public to exercise caution, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and refrain from sharing personal or financial details with unverified sources.

How to Stay Safe?

  1. Verify Messages: Always confirm the authenticity of any message claiming to be from your bank or other financial institutions.
  2. Avoid Clicking on Links: Do not click on links from unverified sources or unknown senders.
  3. Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like PAN card numbers, OTPs, or bank account information over unsolicited calls, emails, or messages.
  4. Contact Official Channels: If in doubt, reach out directly to India Post or IPPB through their official helpline numbers or website.

Public Advisory

This scam is a reminder to stay vigilant against cyber threats and phishing attacks. Both India Post and the PIB have reiterated their commitment to protecting the public from fraud and advised everyone to remain cautious in their digital interactions.

By spreading awareness and taking proactive measures, individuals can safeguard themselves from falling victim to such deceptive schemes. PAN Card Holders Alert! PIB Warns India Post Payments Bank Customers About Phishing Scams

The Press Information Bureau (PIB) has issued a critical alert to PAN card holders and customers of India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) regarding a phishing scam that has been targeting unsuspecting individuals. Reports have surfaced that scammers are sending fake messages to IPPB customers, falsely claiming that their bank accounts will be blocked within 24 hours if they do not update their PAN card details.

The Phishing Scam in Detail

The fraudulent messages include suspicious links designed to mislead recipients into visiting scam websites. Once there, unsuspecting users are tricked into sharing sensitive personal information, such as their banking credentials and PAN details. These phishing techniques aim to exploit individuals’ trust and lack of awareness to steal their private data.

What Did PIB Say About the PAN Card Scam?

The Press Information Bureau has categorically debunked these messages as fake. It has clarified that India Post does not send such alerts and has no involvement in these phishing activities. India Post has urged the public to exercise caution, avoid clicking on suspicious links, and refrain from sharing personal or financial details with unverified sources.

How to Stay Safe?

  1. Verify Messages: Always confirm the authenticity of any message claiming to be from your bank or other financial institutions.
  2. Avoid Clicking on Links: Do not click on links from unverified sources or unknown senders.
  3. Protect Personal Information: Never share sensitive details like PAN card numbers, OTPs, or bank account information over unsolicited calls, emails, or messages.
  4. Contact Official Channels: If in doubt, reach out directly to India Post or IPPB through their official helpline numbers or website.

Public Advisory

This scam is a reminder to stay vigilant against cyber threats and phishing attacks. Both India Post and the PIB have reiterated their commitment to protecting the public from fraud and advised everyone to remain cautious in their digital interactions.

By spreading awareness and taking proactive measures, individuals can safeguard themselves from falling victim to such deceptive schemes.

Source : PIB |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

International Peace Conference Successfully Concludes with Deputy CM of Puducherry as Chief Guest

Ahsan Ansari
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International Peace Conference Successfully Concludes with Deputy CM of Puducherry as Chief Guest

The International Peace Conference: A Resounding Success in the Spirit of Global Goodwill.

Puducherry, India  —  The International Peace Conference, a prestigious event jointly organized by the International Peace Corps Association and the International Human Rights Ambassador Organization, concluded on a highly successful note, leaving a profound impact on participants and emphasizing the collective commitment to global peace and sustainable development.

A Distinguished Gathering of Visionaries

The event was honored by the presence of A. Namassivayam Arumugam, Home Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Puducherry, who graced the occasion as the chief guest. His attendance underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering peace and social welfare across borders. The program began with an inspiring welcome address by Mr. Avinash Sukunade, representing the organizing institutions. In his speech, he celebrated the organizations’ impactful contributions to promoting global harmony, addressing pressing humanitarian concerns, and championing social development initiatives.

A Tribute to Excellence in Social Service

A key highlight of the conference was the participation of Mr. Shasi Kumar, a distinguished humanitarian and recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition conferred by none other than the President of the United States. In his heartfelt address, Mr. Kumar shared his gratitude to the esteemed attendees and urged a united approach toward addressing global challenges. He emphasized that fostering social welfare, mutual understanding, and cooperative action are essential pathways to creating a more inclusive and peaceful world.

A Milestone for Peace and Collaboration

The International Peace Conference stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the shared commitment of nations, organizations, and individuals toward building a harmonious global society. The event not only provided a platform for dialogue and exchange of ideas but also reinforced the need for collective action to address critical issues like conflict resolution, social equity, and sustainable development.

Through vibrant discussions, inspirational speeches, and collaborative initiatives, the conference successfully highlighted innovative strategies and best practices that can drive lasting change. It served as a reminder of the power of unity in overcoming divisions and building bridges across cultures and nations.

Moving Forward

As the curtains fall on this remarkable event, the organizers and participants alike look forward to transforming the ideas shared and the partnerships forged into actionable outcomes. The success of the International Peace Conference echoes a call to action for all stakeholders to continue working tirelessly toward a future where peace, understanding, and development thrive universally.

The conference, hailed as a significant milestone in the realm of international cooperation, leaves a legacy of optimism and a roadmap for sustained efforts toward global harmony.

Source : DT |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

4 bodies recovered after deadly coal mine collapse in Pakistan 8 missing

Qaseem Hassan
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4 bodies recovered after deadly coal mine collapse in Pakistan 8 missing

Islamabad, Pakistan  — The bodies of four miners were recovered from a collapsed coal mine in Pakistan’s Balochistan province on Friday, while rescue teams continue efforts to reach eight others still trapped underground.

Provincial government spokesperson Shahid Rind said the miners had been stranded since Thursday evening when a methane gas explosion caused the mine to cave in at Sanjdi, about 40 km from the provincial capital of Quetta.

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“So far four dead bodies of the miners have been recovered during the rescue operation which continued the whole day,” Rind told EFE.

The official said the rescue efforts would continue overnight, but the chances of finding survivors were slim.

“The rescuers are doing their job, but there is very little hope that any miner would still be alive,” he said.

Rind said the Balochistan Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and the Mines Department were working to remove debris using heavy machinery.

The trapped miners were reportedly at a depth of over 4,200 feet.

Balochistan holds significant coal reserves, but outdated extraction methods and poor safety measures frequently result in fatal accidents.

Coal mine incidents are common in the impoverished province, where miners often work in dangerous conditions without proper safety protocols.

In June last year, 11 miners died in a gas explosion at the same mine. Earlier, in March, 12 miners were killed and eight others rescued after a similar mine collapse in Harnai district of Balochistan.

SOURCE : EFE |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

New York’s highest appeals court declines to block Trump’s sentencing in hush money case

Diplomat Times
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New York’s highest appeals court declines to block Trump’s sentencing in hush money case

ALBANY, USA — New York’s highest court on Thursday declined to block Donald Trump’s upcoming sentencing in his hush money case, leaving the U.S. Supreme Court as the president-elect’s likely last option to prevent the hearing from taking place Friday.

One judge of the New York Court of Appeals issued a brief order declining to grant a hearing to Trump’s legal team.

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Trump has asked the Supreme Court to call off Friday’s sentencing. His lawyers turned to the nation’s highest court Wednesday after New York courts refused to postpone the sentencing by Judge Juan M. Merchan, who presided over Trump’s trial and conviction last May on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records. Trump has denied wrongdoing.

In a filing to the top New York court, Trump’s attorneys had said Merchan and the state’s mid-level appellate court both “erroneously failed” to stop the sentencing, arguing that the Constitution requires an automatic pause as they appeal the judge’s ruling upholding the verdict.

While Merchan has indicated he will not impose jail time, fines or probation, Trump’s lawyers argued a felony conviction would still have intolerable side effects, including distracting him as he prepares to take office.

Trump’s attorneys have argued that the Manhattan trial violated last summer’s Supreme Court ruling giving Trump broad immunity from prosecution over acts he took as president. At the least, they have said, the sentencing should be delayed while their appeals play out on the immunity issue.

Judges in New York have found that Trump’s convictions related to personal matters rather than official acts.

Trump’s attorneys called the case politically motivated, and said that the sentencing threatens to disrupt the Republican’s presidential transition as he prepares to return to the presidency on Jan. 20.

Sentencing Trump now would be a “grave injustice,” his attorney D. John Sauer wrote. Sauer is also Trump’s pick to be solicitor general, who represents the government before the high court.

The emergency motion to the U.S. Supreme Court was submitted to Justice Sonia Sotomayor, who hears emergency appeals from New York.

SOURCE : APNEWS | Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Global alcohol firms demand $466 mln from Indian state in payments row, sources say

Diplomat Times
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Global alcohol firms demand $466 mln from Indian state in payments row, sources say

Global alcohol companies, including Heineken’s United Breweries, Diageo, and Pernod Ricard, are demanding $466 million in unpaid dues from India’s Telangana state.

New Delhi, India — Global alcohol companies such as Diageo, Pernod Ricard and Carlsberg are demanding unpaid dues of about $466 million from India’s Telangana state, where Heineken suspended supplies this week in an unprecedented move, three industry sources said.

India is the world’s eighth-biggest alcohol market by volume, with annual revenues that Euromonitor estimated last year at $45 billion. Its states individually regulate pricing of alcohol products, which are major contributors to their revenue.

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Heineken’s United Breweries has said it will halt supplies to southern Telangana, India’s biggest beer consumer, because of delayed payments and lack of government approval for higher prices since fiscal 2019/20, which hurt its finances.

Wednesday’s unusual move by India’s biggest beer company sparked a fall of 7 per cent in its shares at a time when the industry faces intense scrutiny nationwide.

The antitrust watchdog is separately investigating accusations of collusion by Anheuser-Busch InBev and France’s Pernod to boost market share, having raided their offices in December. Both are cooperating with Indian authorities.

Many places like Telangana require liquor companies to supply only to state-run depots, which then sell to retailers, forcing the companies to rely on state governments for payment.

Alcohol industry sources who spoke on condition of anonymity said Telangana owed total unpaid dues of about 40 billion rupees ($466 million) to whisky and beer companies.

Late on Wednesday, Telangana minister Jupally Krishna Rao said United Breweries, which has 70 per cent of the market in the state, had suspended supplies as a “tactic” to press for price increases, which tend to blunt consumer demand.

Rao said the state owed United Breweries 6.6 billion rupees ($77 million), but did not give exact reasons for the delay.

He did not reveal outstanding dues to its peers, but sources said Carlsberg is owed nearly 400 million rupees ($5 million) while outstandings for AB InBev amount to 1.5 billion ($17 million).

Dues owed to whisky and Scotch makers are much more. Pernod Ricard has been demanding 15 billion rupees ($175 million), while Diageo’s unpaid dues are estimated at 10 billion rupees ($116.40 million), two of the sources said.

None of the companies responded to requests for comment on Friday, and neither did Telangana state officials.

Lack of timely payments was “creating tremendous difficulties for companies”, the Brewers’ Association of India and International Spirits and Wines Association of India told the Telangana government in a letter.

The areas worst hit were operations and efforts to sustain and plan investments, the groups added in their Oct. 3 letter, seen by Reuters, which estimated that total outstanding payments were $606 million by then.

Heineken-owned United Breweries reported sales of 183 billion rupees ($2.1 billion) in fiscal 2023/24. Elara Capital estimates that Telangana accounts for about 15 per cent to 20 per cent of the company’s annual sales by volume.

SOURCE : REUTERS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Armenia floats EU referendum amid split with Russia

Diplomat Times
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Armenia floats EU referendum amid split with Russia

Yerevan, Armenia — Armenia could soon be on the path to joining the European Union, the country’s prime minister claimed Thursday against a backdrop of growing tensions with the Kremlin, which was once one of its top allies.

At a Cabinet meeting in the capital, Yerevan, Nikol Pashinyan said the government would back a new bill introduced in parliament that would effectively launch the South Caucasus nation’s bid to become a member of the 27-country bloc.

Pashinyan said the bill would only begin the process of diplomatic negotiations. “Adopting the law doesn’t literally mean Armenia is joining the EU, because that cannot be done through a law or government decision — the decision on that can only be made through a referendum,” he said.

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The day prior, Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan announced that the country could sign a “comprehensive” new partnership agenda with Brussels “in the coming months,” which could include visa liberalization.

Armenia has historically maintained close ties with Russia, but froze its membership of Moscow’s CSTO military alliance last year after accusing it of failing to support the country in an conflict with neighboring Azerbaijan. Yerevan has also dispatched humanitarian aid to Ukraine and confirmed that it would work to comply with EU sanctions on the Russian economy.

While officials have previously hinted that the tiny democratic nation could seek to join the bloc, those ambitions face a tough challenge as Armenia remains heavily economically dependent on Moscow and even hosts a Russian military base.

Shortly after Pashinyan’s announcement, Russia reacted with displeasure to his EU aspirations.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Armenia, which is also a member of the Eurasian Economic Union, couldn’t be part of both the Moscow-led cooperation and the EU.

He added that “of course it’s Armenia’s sovereign right” to pursue EU membership, but with a nod of skepticism he pointed to Turkey’s decadeslong unsuccessful bid to join.

SOURCE : POLITICO |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Who is Naomi Seibt, the German influencer publicly engaged by Elon Musk over many times?

Endrit Pjetri
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Who is Naomi Seibt, the German influencer publicly engaged by Elon Musk over many times?

Berlin, Germany — On his public journey to embracing Germany’s far-right Alternative for Germany, Elon Musk has frequently amplified the online content of one young supporter of the party – climate change and COVID-19 lockdown sceptic Naomi Seibt.

Shortly after polls closed in June for the European Parliament elections, in which the AfD performed strongly, Seibt announced that she had voted for the party in a post to her tens of thousands of followers on X, Musk’s social media platform. An hour later, Musk responded, opens new tab with a question.

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“Why is there such a negative reaction from some about AfD?” the Tesla chief executive asked in a public reply. He followed up with a private message asking for more details, Seibt told Reuters in an interview. Reuters has not seen the private message.

“I explained to him the AfD is not similar to the Nazi ideology or Hitler, but is like the 19th century liberal nationalist movement … because they wanted to be free from authoritarians in their own territory,” said the 24-year-old, who posts in English, describing their private exchange.

The billionaire entrepreneur responded with a humorous Roman Empire-themed meme, said Seibt, who has around 368,000 followers on X.

Since asking Seibt about the AfD in June, Musk has engaged publicly with the self-professed libertarian more than 40 times, following two previous engagements with her on the platform earlier that year, putting her among a small group of European influencers whose content he has heavily interacted with in recent months, according to a Reuters review of his posts on X.

Musk, who has more than 211 million followers on the platform, did not respond to requests for comment for this story. Reuters could not establish how influential Seibt’s content has been on his thinking.

Seibt, who rose to prominence several years ago posting content to counter climate activist Greta Thunberg, said Musk has sent her a handful direct messages asking about German politics in the same period. Reuters has not seen these posts.

Reuters could not establish to what extent he is acting at the behest of Trump, who has appointed him the joint head of a new government efficiency department. On Tuesday, the president-elect said “Elon’s doing a good job” when asked for his reaction to Musk’s statements about foreign affairs in Europe and elsewhere.

Seibt has dedicated herself to online activism since dropping out of university after one semester of economics, she said.
In 2019, she met British climate sceptic Christopher Monckton who connected her with the Heartland Institute, a U.S.-based think tank that has worked on climate change denial and cast doubt on the harm caused by passive smoking.


Heartland paid her $4,000 a month for three months, in what she described as a scholarship, she said. Heartland did not respond to a request for comment.

Musk’s takeover of X has helped elevate her profile.
“When I saw in 2022 that Twitter was being bought by Elon, I didn’t know what was going to happen,” she said. “But I knew one thing: I could trust this Elon Musk guy.”

Source : REUTERS/AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

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