Category: World

TAIPEI: A significant milestone in Taiwan-US relations was achieved Wednesday with the formal implementation of the first agreement under the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century commercial. This landmark agreement, which focuses on enhancing trade and economic ties between the two nations, covers key areas such as regulatory procedures, trade facilitation, customs administration, and anti-corruption efforts. Both parties have committed to working together to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement’s provisions. The Office of Trade Negotiations hailed the deal as a “significant milestone” in deepening bilateral relations. Key aspects of…

CANBERRA: Australia’s unemployment rate decreased unexpectedly in November, surprising analysts as official figures showed a drop to 3.9%, the lowest since March. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released its monthly labor force report on Thursday, revealing that the jobless rate fell from 4.1% in October, contrary to predictions that it would rise to 4.2%. In a report by Xinhua News Agency, the ABS revealed that while analysts had expected a rise in unemployment, the labor market saw positive shifts. The number of jobless Australians dropped by 27,000, while the…

WASHINGTON: In a significant effort to stabilize US-China relations before a possible return of Donald Trump to the White House, key economic officials from President Joe Biden’s administration are set to meet with their Chinese counterparts this week. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, in an interview on Wednesday, underscored the importance of “ongoing communications at all levels” to prevent a further deterioration in relations between the world’s two largest economies. Under Biden’s tenure, economic tensions between Beijing and Washington have resurfaced, driven by trade disputes and illicit fentanyl concerns. These tensions…

Washington: If Donald Trump were to take office in January as President of the United States, there are several potential developments and policy directions to anticipate based on his previous tenure, campaign promises, and current political climate. Here’s an outline of what one might expect: Domestic Policy Economy and Taxation A focus on tax cuts for businesses and individuals, similar to his 2017 tax reforms. Deregulation to boost industries like energy, finance, and manufacturing. Possible confrontations with the Federal Reserve if inflation or interest rates remain contentious. Immigration Reinstating stricter…

Syria: Bashar al-Assad’s reign, which began in 2000, has been marked by significant domestic, regional, and international developments. His leadership has transformed Syria’s political, social, and economic landscape, culminating in one of the most devastating conflicts of the 21st century. Below is a comprehensive overview: 1. Early Years (2000–2010): Consolidation of Power Assumption of Office: Bashar al-Assad succeeded his father, Hafez al-Assad, in 2000, continuing the Assad family’s dynastic rule. Initially perceived as a reformer, his presidency raised hopes for political and economic modernization. The Damascus Spring: In his early…

BEIJING: As they worked on measures to stimulate the economy next year, Chinese President Xi Jinping and other senior officials said Monday that they will take a more “relaxed” approach to monetary policy. Beijing’s stated growth goal for this year is in jeopardy due to the world’s second-largest economy’s struggles with slow domestic demand, a lingering real estate crisis, and skyrocketing public debt. Fears of another showdown between the superpowers are heightened by the president-elect Donald Trump’s indications that he would resume his tough trade policies during his second term…

Mumbai: NASA disclosed new delays in its Artemis program, pushing back its ambitious plans to return humans to the moon nearly 50 years after the final Apollo mission. The program, envisioned as the next chapter in lunar exploration, faces challenges that have shifted mission timelines further into the future. Updated Timeline for Artemis Missions NASA Administrator Bill Nelson announced that the Artemis II mission, which will carry four astronauts on a journey around the moon and back, is now rescheduled for April 2026. This marks another postponement from its initial…