25 th January 2025 News Update

25 th January 2025 News Update 

UN Development Chief Urges UK to Reverse Aid Budget Cuts

Achim Steiner, the Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, has called on the United Kingdom to reconsider the significant reductions made to its aid budget during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, under then-Chancellor Rishi Sunak, the UK reduced its aid spending from 0.7% to 0.5% of national income. This decrease has had widespread implications, particularly for UN organizations that rely heavily on UK funding. Steiner emphasized the importance of the UK resuming its previous aid commitment and highlighted that a substantial portion of the current budget is being utilized to fund the domestic refugee system. He urged the UK government to engage in a public debate about reversing these cuts, stressing that resource allocation should not be viewed as a choice between domestic and international responsibilities. The Labour Party has not committed to reinstating the 0.7% target, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves focusing on balancing the budget.

Queensland Officials Seek to Revitalize Dilapidated Resorts

Livingstone Mayor Adam Belot and Keppel MP Nigel Hutton are embarking on a mission to Japan and China to reignite redevelopment plans for two dilapidated tourist resorts in Queensland, Australia. The Capricorn Resort, closed for almost a decade, and the Great Barrier Reef International Resort in Zilzie, closed since 2014, have both fallen into disrepair. The meetings with the Iwasaki Group and the Yuexing Group aim to promote reinvestment in the fast-growing Capricorn Coast region. The delegation will present plans to Mr. Yoshitaro Iwasaki in early March, emphasizing the urgency of leveraging current economic and tourism growth. The mayor and MP seek proactive solutions, including possible redevelopment proposals and even potential sales of the resorts. Improved access to Farnborough Beach and Muskers Beach is also on the agenda. Support for the trip's costs was confirmed at the recent council meeting, with Mr. Hutton covering his expenses.

Labour Urged to Lead Global Debt Relief Effort as Repayment Costs Soar

Campaigners are calling on the UK's Labour Party to spearhead global debt relief initiatives in 2025 due to an alarming rise in debt repayments by lower-income countries, which have reached the highest levels in three decades. According to Debt Justice, these nations now allocate 15% of their revenue to debt repayments, significantly hindering efforts to combat poverty and address climate change. Countries like Angola, Laos, Pakistan, and Egypt are severely impacted, with debt repayments constituting up to 65% of their income. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other international lenders have provided loans to countries like Pakistan and Angola despite their precarious financial situations. Labour’s manifesto highlights unsustainable debt as a priority, urging the UK government to legislate for private sector bondholders to incur losses during debt relief actions. Pope Francis and other advocates emphasize the need for debt forgiveness to enable equitable global development. Despite these calls, Labour has yet to restore the Department for International Development or reverse previous aid cuts, amidst ongoing high debt payment forecasts for 2025.

World Bank President Ajay Banga Integrates Climate Change into Development Agenda

Ajay Banga, the current president of the World Bank, has made significant changes since taking office, both in appearance and in focus. Taking over from David Malpass, Banga has infused new energy into the office, focusing heavily on climate change. Under his leadership, the World Bank has integrated climate change into its mission statement and increased its financial commitments to climate-related projects. Banga emphasizes pragmatic, incremental reforms to accelerate global climate action without overhauling the bank’s traditional development agenda. He has reformed lending policies, integrated climate objectives into agricultural and education programs, and established collaborations with the private sector to mobilize the large-scale investments needed for clean energy. Furthermore, Banga is working to address climate finance on the global stage and navigate political challenges, even as he anticipates skepticism from future political leaders. His approach highlights the interconnection between climate issues and broader development goals such as economic growth, gender equality, and resilience to climate impacts, aiming for practical solutions on a global scale.

COP29: Financial Aid for Developing Countries at Heart of Tense Discussions

COP29, held in Azerbaijan from November 11 to 22, 2024, focuses heavily on revising the climate finance target known as the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). This new objective aims to replace the $100 billion annual commitment made in 2009, which was reached later than promised, straining North-South relations. Developing nations see this funding as a moral debt owed by wealthier countries historically responsible for significant emissions. The NCQG's negotiations revolve around establishing a precise target, with some proposals suggesting up to $1.3 trillion annually, heavily involving public funding—a challenge amidst budget constraints in developed nations. The intricate balance involves ensuring a substantial share from public funds while leveraging private sector contributions. The summit's outcome is critical for fostering trust and driving more ambitious climate plans ahead of COP30 in Brazil. The dialogue also grapples with who should contribute and how to allocate funds, potentially including new innovative funding sources and system reforms. Developed nations advocate a layered funding approach, but disagreements on distribution and specific objectives, like loss and damage, persist. The necessity for significant contributions from countries like China and Gulf states, underlined by historical emissions responsibilities, remains a contentious point.

U.S. Development Agency Competes with China on Global Projects

Since its creation in 2019, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) aimed to counter China's global influence through infrastructure projects. Celebrating its five-year milestone, the agency has committed to advancing U.S. foreign policy by investing in international projects, such as a major rail project in Angola funded by a $553 million loan. The DFC has a portfolio worth over $50 billion across 114

Pakistan's Central Bank Anticipated to Implement Sixth Consecutive Rate Cut

Pakistan's central bank is expected to reduce its key interest rate by at least 1 percentage point on Monday, marking the sixth consecutive rate cut aimed at stimulating the economy amid a significant decline in inflation. Since June 2024, the central bank has aggressively lowered rates by 900 basis points from a high of 22%. Analysts predict a further 100 basis point cut, with some forecasting reductions up to 200 basis points. December's inflation rate notably decreased to 4.1%, supporting expectations for continued rate cuts. However, potential increases in energy tariffs and new tax measures pose future inflation risks. The economic recovery is further bolstered by a $7 billion facility from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) secured in September.

Afghan Refugees in Pakistan Appeal for Eased Visa Regulations

Afghan refugees in Pakistan have urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to ease visa regulations on humanitarian grounds following the U.S. administration's pause of the Refugee Admissions Program. Many Afghans with expired or soon-to-expire visas fear arrest and deportation. Approximately 20,000 Afghans awaiting resettlement in the U.S. have had their travel plans canceled. These refugees, previously approved for resettlement due to their work with the U.S. government, media, aid agencies, and rights groups, are facing difficult living conditions. An advocacy group representing them has appealed to both Pakistan and international organizations for support. The refugees are requesting an extended visa period of at least six months to avoid returning to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, where their safety is at risk.

Controversial Social Media Regulation Law Passed in Pakistan

Pakistan's lower house of parliament has passed a controversial bill granting the government extensive control over social media, including the power to imprison users for spreading disinformation. The legislation establishes a social media regulatory authority with its own investigation agency and tribunals, empowered to impose up to three-year prison sentences and fines of two million rupees for disseminating "false or fake" information. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar claims the regulations aim to combat unregulated fake news on social media. However, journalism groups and rights activists argue that the law seeks to suppress freedom of speech and intimidate journalists. The Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ) plans nationwide protests and a potential sit-in outside parliament if the law is not repealed. Digital rights activists and Reporters Without Borders have also condemned the new law, highlighting Pakistan's low ranking on the 2024 Press Freedom Index and its dangers for journalists.

Saudi Arabia to Invest in Pakistan's Reko Diq Mining Project

Saudi Arabia’s investment mining fund, Manara Minerals, is poised to acquire a 10-20% stake in Pakistan's Reko Diq copper and gold mining project. The $9 billion project, developed by Barrick Gold, is expected to be one of the world’s largest copper mines. Saudi Arabia's involvement will include an equity purchase from the Pakistani government and a future output offtake agreement. Negotiations are progressing, with an expected deal within six months. The project will significantly benefit Pakistan’s economy, producing 400,000 tonnes of copper and 500,000 ounces of gold annually once completed. Saudi Arabia, a major creditor to Pakistan, aims to secure mineral supplies for its industrial needs through this investment. Barrick Gold anticipates the Reko Diq project will create substantial opportunities and growth.

Pakistan Faces Significant Educational Challenges

Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has highlighted that Pakistan currently faces significant educational challenges, with over 26 million out-of-school children, one of the highest figures globally. He emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms to address this issue and improve the country's educational landscape.

World Bank Urges Pakistan to Accelerate Economic Reforms

The World Bank has called on Pakistan to accelerate reforms for better economic development. South Asia Vice President Martin Raiser emphasized the need for Pakistan to honor agreements with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to maintain investor confidence and ensure a stable energy supply. He also stressed the importance of structural reforms to enhance economic resilience and foster sustainable growth.

Surge in 'Honor Killings' Reported in Pakistan

Pakistan has witnessed a surge in cases of 'honor killings,' with eight individuals killed in three days. In one incident, an accused, Bhoral Chachar, gunned down his daughter-in-law, Razia, and her alleged lover, Majid Chachar, in Village Qabil Chachar near Obaro. These incidents highlight the persistent issue of honor-based violence in the country and the need for effective measures to address it.

Pakistan's ISI Sends High-Level Delegation to Dhaka

Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) has secretly sent four top members to Dhaka, raising concerns in New Delhi. The purpose of the delegation's visit remains undisclosed, but it has prompted India to closely monitor the situation. This development comes amid ongoing regional tensions and complex diplomatic relations in South Asia.

Afghanistan-Pakistan Border Skirmishes Continue

Skirmishes between Afghan and Pakistani forces have persisted along the border since 2024. In January 2025, multiple incidents were reported, including the capture of fifteen border posts by militants from Afghanistan in Bajaur District and subsequent clashes. Both sides have accused each other of initiating hostilities, leading to civilian casualties and displacement. The situation remains tense, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

India News Update for January 25, 2025

Extradition of Mumbai Terror Attack Convict Tahawwur Rana

Tahawwur Rana, convicted for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, is set to be extradited to India. This development marks a significant step in bringing those responsible for the attacks to justice.

OpenAI Faces Copyright Lawsuit from Indian Publishers

A consortium of Indian and international book publishers has filed a copyright lawsuit against OpenAI in New Delhi. The Federation of Indian Publishers seeks to prevent OpenAI's ChatGPT from accessing proprietary content without proper licensing. Major publishers involved include Bloomsbury, Penguin Random House, and Cambridge University Press. OpenAI has denied the allegations, asserting fair use of publicly available data. The case could have significant implications for AI and intellectual property law in India.

Navantia Loses $5 Billion Submarine Contract in India

Spanish shipbuilder Navantia has lost a $5 billion contract to construct six submarines for the Indian Navy. The contract was awarded to Germany's Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems and India's Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. The decision was based on technical considerations, particularly the requirement for a proven air-independent propulsion system, which Navantia's proposal lacked. Navantia has the opportunity to present objections according to the bidding procedure.

Security Tightened in Jammu and Kashmir Ahead of Republic Day

Authorities have heightened security measures in Jammu and Kashmir in preparation for the 76th Republic Day celebrations. The increased vigilance aims to ensure public safety during the national event.

Shattila Ekadashi Observed Today

Shattila Ekadashi, a significant festival in the Hindu calendar, is being observed today. Dedicated to Lord Vishnu, this day emphasizes the importance of sesame seeds for purifying the body, mind, and soul. Devotees believe that observing this Ekadashi can help cleanse past karma and guide them back to the path of righteousness.

Actor Rajpal Yadav Mourns Father's Passing

Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav is mourning the loss of his father, Naurang Yadav, who passed away recently. Rajpal Yadav returned to Delhi from Thailand following his father's hospitalization at AIIMS. He expressed his grief, referring to his father as his "jivan ka yodha" (warrior of life).

Delhi Police Issue Traffic Advisory Ahead of Republic Day

In anticipation of Republic Day celebrations, the Delhi Police have issued a traffic advisory effective from 6 am to 1 pm today. The advisory includes restrictions and diversions to manage the increased vehicular movement and ensure the smooth conduct of events. Commuters are advised to plan their travel accordingly.

India vs. England Second T20 Match in Chennai

England is set to face India in the second T20 match in Chennai today. After a disappointing performance in the first match in Kolkata, where England was all out for 132 and India chased the target in under 13 overs, the visitors are looking to bounce back. The match will start at 1:30 pm UK time and will be broadcast live on talkSPORT 2, TNT Sports, and discovery+. England captain Jos Buttler acknowledged the team's poor batting performance in the first match but remains optimistic about the upcoming game.

Here are the latest updates in lifestyle, fashion, and beauty as of January 25, 2025:

Angie Katsanevas Shares Top Beauty and Fashion Picks

Angie Katsanevas, known from "Real Housewives of Salt Lake City," has revealed her favorite beauty and fashion products. For voluminous hair, she recommends Kérastase Mousse Bouffante, praising its ability to provide incredible body and hold. To maintain glowing skin, Katsanevas uses SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum. Her go-to nude lipstick is Charlotte Tilbury's Hot Lips Lipstick in Kim K.W., and for a flawless complexion, she relies on Huda Beauty's Easy Bake Loose Baking Powder in Ube Birthday Cake. For hydration, she prefers Harmless Harvest Organic Coconut Water and makes a stylish statement with Schiaparelli Trompe-L'oeil Toe Sandals.

TFG Reports Sales Increase During Festive Season

South African fashion retailer TFG experienced an 8.4% rise in sales during the third quarter, driven by heightened consumer spending during Black Friday and the Christmas period. This growth contrasts with a 2% sales decline in the first half of the year. From April 1 to December 28, overall group sales increased by 1.6%, with a 5.7% rise in gross profit compared to the previous nine-month period. TFG Africa, accounting for 72% of the group's turnover, saw a 5.3% sales growth, while TFG London reported a 45.5% increase, partly due to acquiring the fashion retailer White Stuff. However, TFG’s Australian unit faced a 3% sales decline due to challenging trading conditions.

Notable Beauty Trends of 2024

In 2024, social media played a significant role in shaping beauty trends. Makeup styles ranged from radiant #icymakeup and colorful mascara to '90s-inspired black kohl looks. Hair trends emphasized health, with a focus on nurturing routines and embracing natural textures. Popular hairstyles included butterfly bobs and cloud curls. In nail fashion, short, square, and almond shapes were prevalent, with sheer pink and chrome colors leading the way. The Red Nails Theory and Aperol Nails were particularly noteworthy. Skincare trends leaned towards natural, minimalist routines, with an emphasis on vitamin C paired with SPF, PH-powered beauty, and hydrating serums for a glossy finish. Tools like the Dyson Airwrap gained popularity for facilitating easier styling.

Upcoming Fashion Events and Releases

The fashion industry anticipates several notable events and releases in the coming weeks. Fashion enthusiasts are looking forward to the latest collections from top designers, as well as new product launches in the beauty sector. Stay tuned for updates on these developments as they unfold.

Bollywood

Shah Rukh Khan Offers Hosting Tips to Kartik Aaryan at IIFA Event

At a special 25-year ceremony of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards in Jaipur, Shah Rukh Khan shared hosting advice with Kartik Aaryan. The event, scheduled for March 8 and 9, will feature both actors. Kartik expressed his desire to be the "second best" host after Shah Rukh, acknowledging the latter's unparalleled hosting skills.

Saif Ali Khan Recovering After Knife Attack

Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was stabbed multiple times during a robbery attempt at his Bandra West residence in Mumbai. He was hospitalized but is now recovering. His son, actor Shahid Kapoor, expressed relief, stating, "Happy to see he’s back, doing well."

Rajpal Yadav Mourns Father's Passing

Actor Rajpal Yadav is grieving the loss of his father, Naurang Yadav, who recently passed away. Rajpal returned to Delhi from Thailand following his father's hospitalization at AIIMS. He referred to his father as his "jivan ka yodha" (warrior of life).

Lollywood

Upcoming Film 'Chhaava' Faces Protests Over Dance Sequence

The Pakistani film 'Chhaava' has encountered protests due to a dance sequence that some groups find objectionable. Former Member of Parliament Arjun Pratap Bajwa has urged the filmmakers to consult historians to ensure cultural and historical accuracy.

Hollywood

Iconic Rapper DJ Unk Passes Away at 43

Atlanta-based rapper and hip-hop pioneer DJ Unk has died at the age of 43. His wife penned a heartfelt tribute, stating, "Our life will never be the same." DJ Unk was renowned for his contributions to the hip-hop scene and will be deeply missed by fans and peers alike.

Upcoming Releases and Events

The entertainment industry is gearing up for several notable events and releases in the coming weeks. Fans can look forward to new film premieres, award ceremonies, and exclusive interviews with celebrities across Bollywood, Lollywood, and Hollywood. Stay tuned for more updates as these events unfold.