Today's News February 24, 2025

 Today's News February 24, 2025

UK and France Collaborate to Influence US Policy on Ukraine

On the third anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron are intensifying efforts to shape US President Trump's approach to the ongoing conflict. Both leaders aim to prevent unilateral US-Russia peace negotiations that exclude European participation. The UK has expanded travel bans targeting senior Russian officials and businessmen as part of its sanctions regime. Despite internal pressures to increase defense spending to 3% of GDP, UK officials are downplaying the likelihood of such an announcement before Starmer's upcoming meeting with President Trump. Within the US administration, officials have expressed differing views on the attribution of blame for the war, highlighting the complexities of the situation. A central objective remains ensuring Ukrainian representation in any future peace discussions.

China-Australia Tensions Escalate Over Naval Drills

China has criticized Australia for what it describes as exaggerated claims and unreasonable accusations concerning recent live-fire naval exercises conducted in international waters between Australia and New Zealand. The Australian Defence Force monitored two Chinese frigates and a supply vessel that passed approximately 270 kilometers from Sydney and conducted drills in the Tasman Sea. Australia lodged protests, particularly after initial exercises prompted commercial flight reroutes. China maintains that it issued multiple safety notices and asserts that its activities comply with international law. Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles expressed dissatisfaction with China's explanations, while opposition parties accused the government of insufficient assertiveness. Defence Minister Mark Butler defended the government's stance, emphasizing Australia's right to operate in international waters and criticizing the opposition's position as politically motivated.

China's Embassy Project in London Nears Approval Amid Controversy

The Chinese government is advancing plans to establish a new embassy at the historic Royal Mint Court near the Tower of London, a project marked by intense diplomacy and local political maneuvering. President Xi Jinping personally lobbied UK officials, underscoring the project's significance for future bilateral relations and investments. China also engaged in softer diplomatic efforts, offering local council members small gifts such as biscuits and wine. Initially facing opposition due to security concerns and the site's heritage status, the project now appears close to approval. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner is set to make the final decision following a brief inquiry. Remaining opposition stems from local residents, Chinese dissidents, and MPs wary of China's intentions, citing potential security risks and surveillance concerns. Despite these issues, major entities like the Metropolitan Police and Tower Hamlets council have withdrawn their objections, influenced by legal advice and strategic reassurances. The final decision hinges on resolving disputes over a proposed security fence intended to restrict public access to the site.

Concerns Over Sale of 'The Observer' Newspaper

A group of current and former international contributors to 'The Observer' and 'The Guardian' have voiced deep concern regarding the proposed sale of 'The Observer' to Tortoise Media. They emphasize 'The Observer's' long-standing tradition of impactful international reporting since 1942 and question Tortoise's capacity to maintain these standards. The correspondents highlight the necessity of transparent discussions involving journalists on decisions with significant impacts, criticizing the rushed nature of the sale. They urge the board to reconsider the decision to preserve the editorial integrity and values that underpin their work.

Challenges in Reporting the Gaza Conflict

The recent conflict in Gaza has severely restricted journalistic access, with both Israeli and Hamas authorities imposing stringent limitations. Organizations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) report the deaths of 139 journalists, primarily due to Israeli strikes. Newsrooms are relying on local correspondents and citizen journalists for information, raising concerns about trust and potential biases, including accusations of affiliations with Hamas. French media outlets, such as ARTE Reportage and Enquête Exclusive, depend on local contacts to obtain content. The prevalence of disinformation from both Israeli and Hamas sources, coupled with challenges in verifying social media content, complicates accurate reporting. Calls for greater media access have been made, but restrictions by Israeli authorities limit journalists' movements, often necessitating embedded reporting as a last resort. RSF has filed complaints with the International Criminal Court, alleging war crimes against journalists in Gaza.

Additional International News Briefs

• COP29 Climate Summit: The Baku climate summit concluded with a contentious agreement on global climate finance, reflecting fraying international cooperation on climate issues.

• Sports Update: Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has called for complete commitment from his players following a series of poor performances, ahead of their Champions League match against Feyenoord.

• Canadian Authorities Dismantle Major Drug 'Super Lab': Canadian police have dismantled what they describe as the country's largest and most sophisticated illicit drug "super lab," linked to transnational organized crime.

• Montreal Summit on Ukrainian Deportees: Over 45 nations have signed a pledge in Montreal to repatriate Ukrainian civilians, prisoners of war, and children taken by Russia since the onset of the conflict.

• Mexican Fuel Aid to Cuba: Mexico has sent nearly half a million barrels of crude oil and diesel to Cuba within a few days, aiming to alleviate the island's energy crisis amid blackouts and reduced supplies from Russia and Venezuela.

• Convictions in Marielle Franco Case: A Brazilian judge has sentenced two former police officers to lengthy prison terms for the 2018 murder of Rio de Janeiro city councilwoman Marielle Franco, a prominent figure on Brazil's political left.

• Today's India News - February 24, 2025

  Economic Updates

  • Indian Rupee's Performance: The Indian rupee is expected to strengthen at the market opening today, influenced by a decline in the U.S. dollar and Treasury yields following concerning U.S. economic data. The 1-month non-deliverable forward suggests the rupee will open at 86.60-86.64 against the U.S. dollar, compared to the previous session's 86.7125.

  • India-UK Trade Negotiations: Trade discussions between India and the United Kingdom are set to resume this week after nearly a year-long hiatus due to visa-related disagreements. UK Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds will meet with Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Delhi. The UK aims to secure reduced tariffs on exports such as food products, automobiles, and whisky, and seeks improved access for British firms in sectors like accounting, architecture, and technology. Conversely, India is concerned about the national insurance costs for its workers in the UK and desires a social security agreement similar to those with Canada, France, and Australia. Additionally, India seeks binding commitments allowing its students to remain in the UK for two years post-graduation.

  Education

  • UP Board Exam Postponement: The Uttar Pradesh Board examination scheduled for February 24 in Prayagraj has been canceled due to logistical challenges posed by the ongoing Mahakumbh festival. State Education Minister Gulab Devi announced that a new date will be communicated soon. This year, over 5.4 million students are participating in the UP Board exams, with stringent security measures in place to prevent malpractice, including the use of CCTV surveillance and special task forces.

  Sports

  • 2025 Bengaluru Open: The 8th edition of the Bengaluru Open tennis tournament commences today and will run until March 2. Played on hard courts, this event is part of the 2025 ATP Challenger Tour and takes place in Bangalore. The tournament attracts professional tennis players from around the world, offering them a platform to showcase their talents and improve their rankings.

  • SABA Women's Championship 2025: The 3rd South Asian Basketball Association (SABA) Women's Championship is currently underway in New Delhi, running from February 23 to 26. Three teams—India, Nepal, and the Maldives—are competing in this edition. The tournament aims to promote women's basketball in the South Asian region and provide a competitive platform for emerging talents.

  Entertainment

  • Release of 'Chhaava': The historical action film 'Chhaava,' depicting the life of Sambhaji, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, was released on February 14. Directed by Laxman Utekar and featuring Vicky Kaushal in the titular role, the film is an adaptation of the Marathi novel 'Chhava' by Shivaji Sawant. Since its release, 'Chhaava' has garnered significant box office success, becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of 2025 to date.

  Business and Investment

  • Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025: The Invest Kerala Global Summit 2025 concluded on February 22 at the Lulu International Convention Centre in Kochi. Inaugurated by Kerala's Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, the summit aimed to attract both domestic and international investments across 22 key sectors, including aerospace, defense, agriculture, and food processing. The event saw participation from over 3,000 delegates, highlighting Kerala's potential as a prime investment destination. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced 31 upcoming road projects in the state, spanning 896 kilometers and costing ₹50,000 crore, to enhance infrastructure and connectivity. 
  • National Economy and Finance
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  • Pakistan Banking Summit 2025 Commences in Karachi: The Pakistan Banking Summit 2025 (PBS'25) has officially begun in Karachi, organized by the Pakistan Banks Association (PBA). This landmark event aims to advance financial and economic discourse in the country, featuring over 12 prominent international speakers and more than 20 local experts. The summit brings together leaders from over 45 institutions, including conventional, Islamic, digital, and microfinance banks, as well as development finance institutions. Discussions will cover critical themes such as global and local economic developments, the banking sector's role in economic upliftment, priority sector financing, the future of Islamic banking, and digitalization. 
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  • Sports
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  • Pakistan Faces Potential Early Exit from ICC Champions Trophy: In the ongoing 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, Pakistan's cricket team is on the brink of an early exit after a significant loss to India. The match, held in Dubai, saw India comfortably chase down Pakistan's total of 241, thanks to an unbeaten century by Virat Kohli. This defeat leaves Pakistan's chances of advancing to the knockout stages dependent on other match outcomes. 
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  • Captain Mohammad Rizwan Reflects on Team's Performance: Following the loss to India, Pakistan's captain, Mohammad Rizwan, acknowledged that the team's middle-order batsmen succumbed to pressure, leading to their inability to capitalize on a strong start. Rizwan emphasized the need for better shot selection and building on initial momentum in future matches. 
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  • Infrastructure and Development
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  • Gwadar's Unutilized New Airport Raises Questions: Pakistan's newest and most expensive airport, located in Gwadar and entirely funded by China at a cost of $240 million, remains unopened and unused. Despite its capacity to handle 400,000 passengers annually, the airport appears unnecessary for Gwadar's 90,000 residents, who continue to face challenges such as power outages and water shortages. Experts suggest that the airport primarily serves Chinese interests rather than addressing local needs. 
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  • Entertainment
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  • Mehwish Hayat Returns to Television with 'Dayan': Renowned actress Mehwish Hayat makes her return to television after a seven-year hiatus with the premiere of the drama series 'Dayan' on Geo Entertainment. Directed by Siraj-ul-Haque and produced by 7th Sky Entertainment, the series features an ensemble cast including Ahsan Khan, Hira Mani, Usman Peerzada, and Zainab Qayyum. 'Dayan' is set to air its first episode today, February 24, 2025, at 8 PM. 
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  • 'Agar Tum Sath Ho' Premieres Tomorrow on Hum TV: The much-anticipated drama series 'Agar Tum Sath Ho' is scheduled to premiere tomorrow, February 25, 2025, at 8 PM on Hum TV. Directed by Adnan Sarwar and written by Radain Shah, the series stars real-life couple Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani, alongside Zaviyar Nauman Ijaz and Srha Asghar. Produced by Moomal Productions and MD Productions, the show has generated significant interest due to the on-screen reunion of Hocane and Gilani. 
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  • Political Developments
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  • Yusuf Raza Gilani's Tenure as Senate Chairman: In April 2024, Yusuf Raza Gilani was elected unopposed as the Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan. Since then, he has served multiple terms as the acting President of Pakistan during periods when President Asif Ali Zardari was abroad. 
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  • Cultural Events
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  • Gaddafi Stadium Renovations Completed: Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore has undergone significant renovations in preparation for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Upgrades include a new pavilion building, re-profiling of general enclosures with stands brought closer to the playing area, increased seating capacity from 21,500 to over 34,000, installation of new replay screens, LED floodlights, and a newly built head office for the Pakistan Cricket Board. The renovated stadium was inaugurated by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on February 7, 2025, with a ceremony showcasing Pakistan's cultural heritage. 

  • Bollywood

    Industry Revitalization Efforts

    India's film industry is striving to overcome a recent box office slump, with revenues declining by 7% to ₹89.5 billion from January to October 2024. To address this downturn, the industry is banking on high-budget sequels and franchises, such as the Hindi horror-comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 and the South Indian thriller Pushpa 2: The Rule, aiming to draw audiences back to theaters. This strategic shift comes after the pandemic prompted a surge in streaming service viewership, leading to a reevaluation of theatrical releases. Industry experts project a 14% annual growth rate for box office revenue, potentially reaching ₹237 billion by 2028. Additionally, major players like Jio Studios are exploring global expansion and collaborations with Hollywood, indicating a trend toward industry consolidation.

    Priyanka Chopra on Industry Differences

    In a recent interview, actress Priyanka Chopra discussed the operational contrasts between Bollywood and Hollywood. She highlighted that Hollywood's structured and formal processes involve extensive paperwork and precise scheduling, whereas Bollywood operates with more flexibility and improvisation, often relying on 'jugaad'—a colloquial term for innovative problem-solving. Chopra noted that while both industries share the fundamental language of filmmaking, their working styles reflect their respective cultural contexts.

    Lollywood

    'Dayan' Premieres Today

    Renowned actress Mehwish Hayat returns to television after a seven-year hiatus with the premiere of the drama series Dayan on Geo Entertainment. Directed by Siraj-ul-Haque and produced by 7th Sky Entertainment, the series features an ensemble cast including Ahsan Khan, Hira Mani, Usman Peerzada, and Zainab Qayyum. Dayan is set to air its first episode today, February 24, 2025, at 8 PM.

    'Agar Tum Sath Ho' Debuts Tomorrow

    The much-anticipated drama series Agar Tum Sath Ho is scheduled to premiere tomorrow, February 25, 2025, at 8 PM on Hum TV. Directed by Adnan Sarwar and written by Radain Shah, the series stars real-life couple Mawra Hocane and Ameer Gilani, alongside Zaviyar Nauman Ijaz and Srha Asghar. Produced by Moomal Productions and MD Productions, the show has generated significant interest due to the on-screen reunion of Hocane and Gilani.

    Hollywood

    Priyanka Chopra's Upcoming Projects

    Priyanka Chopra continues to make strides in Hollywood with several upcoming projects. She is set to appear in Heads of State alongside Idris Elba and John Cena, and will portray a 19th-century Caribbean female pirate in The Bluff. Earlier this year, she starred in the American romantic-comedy Love Again.

    Industry Trends

    Hollywood is experiencing a dynamic shift with an increased focus on diverse storytelling and global collaborations. Studios are investing in projects that appeal to a wide range of audiences, reflecting the industry's commitment to inclusivity and representation. This trend is evident in the variety of films and series being produced, encompassing different genres, cultures, and narratives.

    بالی ووڈ

    فلم انڈسٹری کی بحالی کی کوششیں

    بھارتی فلم انڈسٹری حالیہ باکس آفس بحران پر قابو پانے کی کوشش کر رہی ہے، کیونکہ جنوری سے اکتوبر 2024 تک اس کے محصولات میں 7% کمی واقع ہو کر ₹89.5 بلین رہ گئے ہیں۔ اس بحران سے نمٹنے کے لیے، انڈسٹری بڑے بجٹ کی سیکوئلز اور فرنچائزز پر انحصار کر رہی ہے، جیسے کہ ہندی ہارر کامیڈی بھول بھلیاں 3 اور جنوبی ہند کی سنسنی خیز فلم پشپا 2: دی رول، تاکہ سامعین کو دوبارہ سنیما گھروں کی طرف راغب کیا جا سکے۔ یہ حکمت عملی اس وقت سامنے آئی جب کورونا وبا کے بعد اسٹریمنگ سروسز کی مقبولیت میں اضافہ ہوا، جس کے باعث تھیٹر ریلیز کے طریقہ کار پر نظرثانی کی گئی۔ ماہرین کا اندازہ ہے کہ باکس آفس کے محصولات میں سالانہ 14% کی شرح سے اضافہ ہوگا اور 2028 تک یہ ₹237 بلین تک پہنچ سکتے ہیں۔ اس کے علاوہ، جیو اسٹوڈیوز جیسے بڑے ادارے ہالی ووڈ کے ساتھ بین الاقوامی توسیع اور تعاون کے مواقع تلاش کر رہے ہیں، جو فلم انڈسٹری میں انضمام کے بڑھتے ہوئے رجحان کی نشاندہی کرتا ہے۔

    پرینکا چوپڑا کا فلمی صنعتوں میں فرق پر تبصرہ

    حال ہی میں ایک انٹرویو کے دوران، معروف اداکارہ پرینکا چوپڑا نے بالی ووڈ اور ہالی ووڈ کے درمیان آپریشنل فرق پر روشنی ڈالی۔ انہوں نے وضاحت کی کہ ہالی ووڈ میں کام کرنے کا ایک منظم اور باضابطہ نظام ہے، جہاں وسیع پیمانے پر دستاویزات، منصوبہ بندی اور شیڈولنگ کی جاتی ہے۔ اس کے برعکس، بالی ووڈ زیادہ لچکدار اور فوری فیصلہ سازی پر مبنی ہے، جہاں اکثر 'جگاڑ' (یعنی مسئلے کے متبادل حل تلاش کرنا) پر انحصار کیا جاتا ہے۔ پرینکا کا کہنا تھا کہ اگرچہ دونوں انڈسٹریز فلم سازی کی بنیادی زبان کو سمجھتی ہیں، لیکن ان کے کام کرنے کے طریقے ان کے متعلقہ ثقافتی تناظر کی عکاسی کرتے ہیں۔

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    لالی ووڈ

    'دایان' آج پریمیئر ہوگا

    معروف اداکارہ مہوش حیات سات سال بعد ٹیلی ویژن اسکرین پر واپسی کر رہی ہیں۔ ان کی نئی ڈرامہ سیریز دایان آج جیو انٹرٹینمنٹ پر نشر ہوگی۔ اس ڈرامے کی ہدایت کاری سراج الحق نے کی ہے اور اسے 7th Sky Entertainment نے پروڈیوس کیا ہے۔ اس سیریز میں احسن خان، حرا مانی، عثمان پیرزادہ، اور زینب قیوم جیسے نامور اداکار شامل ہیں۔ دایان کا پہلا قسط آج، 24 فروری 2025، رات 8 بجے نشر کی جائے گی۔

    'اگر تم ساتھ ہو' کل نشر ہوگا

    انتہائی متوقع ڈرامہ سیریل اگر تم ساتھ ہو کل، 25 فروری 2025، رات 8 بجے ہم ٹی وی پر پریمیئر ہوگا۔ اس ڈرامے کی ہدایت کاری عدنان سرور نے کی ہے جبکہ اس کی تحریر ردین شاہ نے کی ہے۔ اس میں حقیقی زندگی کے جوڑے ماورا حسین اور عامر گیلانی مرکزی کردار ادا کر رہے ہیں، جبکہ دیگر کاسٹ میں زاویر نعمان اعجاز اور سرحہ اصغر شامل ہیں۔ مومل پروڈکشنز اور ایم ڈی پروڈکشنز کے تحت بننے والے اس ڈرامے نے ماورا اور گیلانی کی دوبارہ اسکرین پر جوڑی کی وجہ سے زبردست توجہ حاصل کی ہے۔

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    ہالی ووڈ

    پرینکا چوپڑا کے آنے والے پروجیکٹس

    پرینکا چوپڑا ہالی ووڈ میں اپنی کامیابیوں کو مزید وسعت دے رہی ہیں اور متعدد فلمی منصوبوں پر کام کر رہی ہیں۔ وہ جلد ہی ہیڈز آف اسٹیٹ میں ادریس البا اور جان سینا کے ساتھ جلوہ گر ہوں گی۔ اس کے علاوہ، وہ فلم دی بلف میں 19ویں صدی کی کیریبیئن خاتون قزاق کا کردار ادا کریں گی۔ اس سے قبل، وہ رواں سال امریکی رومانوی کامیڈی فلم لوو اگین میں بھی نظر آ چکی ہیں۔

    ہالی ووڈ میں نئے رجحانات

    ہالی ووڈ میں فلم سازی کے رجحانات مسلسل بدل رہے ہیں، اور اب زیادہ سے زیادہ کہانیوں کو تنوع اور عالمی تعاون کے ساتھ پیش کیا جا رہا ہے۔ فلم اسٹوڈیوز ایسی فلموں اور سیریز پر سرمایہ کاری کر رہے ہیں جو مختلف طبقات اور ثقافتوں سے تعلق رکھنے والے ناظرین کو اپنی طرف متوجہ کر سکیں۔ اس رجحان کی عکاسی مختلف انواع، موضوعات اور ثقافتی روایات کو مدنظر رکھ کر بننے والی فلموں اور ٹی وی سیریز میں واضح طور پر نظر آتی ہے۔