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Briefing - International Agreements in Progress: Modernisation of the trade pillar of the EU-Chile Association Agreement - 18-12-2024

On 9 December 2022, 20 years after the signature of the EU-Chile Association Agreement in 2002, the EU and Chile reached an agreement in principle on a new EU-Chile Advanced Framework Agreement, which comprises modernised trade and political and cooperation p
Documents - Think Tank - European Parliament

Briefing - International Agreements in Progress: Modernisation of the trade pillar of the EU-Chile Association Agreement - 18-12-2024

On 9 December 2022, 20 years after the signature of the EU-Chile Association Agreement in 2002, the EU and Chile reached an agreement in principle on a new EU-Chile Advanced Framework Agreement, which comprises modernised trade and political and cooperation pillars. Negotiations were launched in November 2017, based on a Council negotiating mandate, which was the first-ever to have been published prior to the start of negotiations. Although the trade pillar had operated smoothly and led to an expansion of bilateral trade in goods and services and investment, Chile and the EU agreed to broaden and deepen it to unlock untapped potential, break new ground and keep pace with new trade and investment patterns in a global competitive environment that has fundamentally changed with the growing global footprint of countries such as China. As the EU-Chile Advanced Framework Agreement (AFA) comprises provisions falling under both the EU's exclusive competence and shared competence with EU Member States, an EU-Chile interim trade agreement (iTA) was copied from the EU-Chile AFA to undergo an EU-only ratification process, while the EU-Chile AFA including its trade pillar will also have to be ratified by all EU Member States in accordance with their constitutional requirements. The former will expire, once the latter has entered into force. The agreements were signed on 13 December2023. On 29 February 2024, Parliament provided its consent to both. On 18 March 2024, the Council endorsed the EU-Chile iTA, which ends the EU-level ratification. Chile finalised the ratification of both agreements on 13 November 2024. Fourth edition. The 'International Agreements in Progress' briefings are updated at key stages throughout the process, from initial discussions through to ratification. Source : © European Union, 2024 - EP

Touch on the Oscar shortlist

The film Touch by Baltasar Kormákur has been selected for the shortlist for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category.
mbl.is - News in English

Touch on the Oscar shortlist

The film Touch by Baltasar Kormákur has been selected for the shortlist for the 2025 Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category.

Russia in contact with Uganda over ‘dancing’ illness outbreak – watchdog

Russia’s human welfare watchdog says it is in contact with Uganda regarding the mystery ‘dancing’ illness outbreak Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Russia in contact with Uganda over ‘dancing’ illness outbreak – watchdog

Russia’s human welfare watchdog says it is in contact with Uganda regarding the mystery ‘dancing’ illness outbreak Read Full Article at RT.com

Major oil spill washes up on Russia’s Black Sea coast (VIDEO)

Nearly 50 kilometers of shoreline in Russia’s Krasnodar Region is covered with oil after two tankers ran aground on Sunday Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Major oil spill washes up on Russia’s Black Sea coast (VIDEO)

Nearly 50 kilometers of shoreline in Russia’s Krasnodar Region is covered with oil after two tankers ran aground on Sunday Read Full Article at RT.com

Azerbaijani president slams ‘dictator’ Macron

Ilham Aliyev has slammed France over its treatment of its dependencies and former colonies, as well as efforts to arm Armenia Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Azerbaijani president slams ‘dictator’ Macron

Ilham Aliyev has slammed France over its treatment of its dependencies and former colonies, as well as efforts to arm Armenia Read Full Article at RT.com

Medvedev warns The Times over piece on Russian general’s murder

Dmitry Medvedev has slammed The Times staff as “lousy jackals” for justifying Ukraine’s assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Medvedev warns The Times over piece on Russian general’s murder

Dmitry Medvedev has slammed The Times staff as “lousy jackals” for justifying Ukraine’s assassination of Lt. Gen. Igor Kirillov Read Full Article at RT.com

Top Russian general estimates Ukraine’s troop casualties

Nearly 1 million Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or wounded since start of the conflict, according to Valery Gerasimov Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Top Russian general estimates Ukraine’s troop casualties

Nearly 1 million Ukrainian soldiers have been killed or wounded since start of the conflict, according to Valery Gerasimov Read Full Article at RT.com

Russian Foreign Ministry calls on Red Cross to help end human rights violations in Ukraine

«Special emphasis was placed on the importance of ensuring proper treatment of Russian servicemen held in custody and prevention of attacks on civilian persons and facilities,» the statement says
TASS

Russian Foreign Ministry calls on Red Cross to help end human rights violations in Ukraine

«Special emphasis was placed on the importance of ensuring proper treatment of Russian servicemen held in custody and prevention of attacks on civilian persons and facilities,» the statement says

Russia condemns US decision to keep Cuba listed as state sponsor of terrorism — MFA

According to Maria Zakharova, this latest hostile move by Washington toward Cuba is nothing but an artificial reason for justifying the illegitimate policy to economically suffocate the independent nation
TASS

Russia condemns US decision to keep Cuba listed as state sponsor of terrorism — MFA

According to Maria Zakharova, this latest hostile move by Washington toward Cuba is nothing but an artificial reason for justifying the illegitimate policy to economically suffocate the independent nation

Uzbek citizen accused of killing Russian general previously resided in Kazan

Law enforcement officials indicated that additional suspects might surface as efforts continue to track Akhmad Kurbanov’s connections and analyze his mobile devices for evidence of potential accomplices
TASS

Uzbek citizen accused of killing Russian general previously resided in Kazan

Law enforcement officials indicated that additional suspects might surface as efforts continue to track Akhmad Kurbanov’s connections and analyze his mobile devices for evidence of potential accomplices

Tajik president re-elected as leader of country’s ruling party

Additionally, the congress approved nominations for the party’s new central executive committee, its leadership, and the composition of other party bodies and structures
TASS

Tajik president re-elected as leader of country’s ruling party

Additionally, the congress approved nominations for the party’s new central executive committee, its leadership, and the composition of other party bodies and structures

Nurse Nimo Bashir Daud stabbed to death in Stockholm suburb

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (HOL) — Twenty-eight-year-old assistant nurse Nimo Bashir Daud had nearly finished her day when she boarded a bus home late Sunday, just as she had done countless times before. On this night, only a short walk through a wooded path separat
Hiiraan Online

Nurse Nimo Bashir Daud stabbed to death in Stockholm suburb

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (HOL) — Twenty-eight-year-old assistant nurse Nimo Bashir Daud had nearly finished her day when she boarded a bus home late Sunday, just as she had done countless times before. On this night, only a short walk through a wooded path separated her from her apartment in a quiet suburb north of Stockholm.

Ukrainian currency hits all-time low against dollar

The grivna will be devalued further before the end of 2024 to give the government more cash from the exchange of aid funds, local media say Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Ukrainian currency hits all-time low against dollar

The grivna will be devalued further before the end of 2024 to give the government more cash from the exchange of aid funds, local media say Read Full Article at RT.com

Queen of Russophobia: A history of top EU diplomat Kallas’ hawkish policies

Top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas is a prominent figure in European politics, known for her firm stance against Russia Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Queen of Russophobia: A history of top EU diplomat Kallas’ hawkish policies

Top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas is a prominent figure in European politics, known for her firm stance against Russia Read Full Article at RT.com

England to spend record sum to tackle homelessness

Councils in England will receive £1 billion next year amid “the worst housing crisis in living memory,” the government has said Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

England to spend record sum to tackle homelessness

Councils in England will receive £1 billion next year amid “the worst housing crisis in living memory,” the government has said Read Full Article at RT.com

In Minnesota’s Jewish capital, Somali Muslim mayor reaches across lines to focus on community

Nadia Mohamed was elected mayor a month after the Oct. 7 attack inflamed relations between Jews and Muslims. The story in St. Louis Park is how it hasn’t been a story.
Hiiraan Online

In Minnesota’s Jewish capital, Somali Muslim mayor reaches across lines to focus on community

Nadia Mohamed was elected mayor a month after the Oct. 7 attack inflamed relations between Jews and Muslims. The story in St. Louis Park is how it hasn’t been a story.

Inquest jury calls Abdi's death a homicide

The jury in the coroner's inquest into the death of Abdirahman Abdi has declared the Somali-Canadian man's 2016 death after his violent arrest by Ottawa police a homicide. In the context of a coroner's inquest, homicide does not carry any legal blame. (Jamie
Hiiraan Online

Inquest jury calls Abdi's death a homicide

The jury in the coroner's inquest into the death of Abdirahman Abdi has declared the Somali-Canadian man's 2016 death after his violent arrest by Ottawa police a homicide. In the context of a coroner's inquest, homicide does not carry any legal blame. (Jamie Hopkins/CBC)

Japan's first resident ambassador to Seychelles marks milestone in diplomatic relations

The President of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, welcomed Sakuta Makoto as the new Japanese Ambassador to Seychelles during a credential presentation ceremony held at State House on Tuesday. Ambassador Makoto is the first Japanese envoy to be stationed locally
Seychelles News Agency

Japan's first resident ambassador to Seychelles marks milestone in diplomatic relations

The President of Seychelles, Wavel Ramkalawan, welcomed Sakuta Makoto as the new Japanese Ambassador to Seychelles during a credential presentation ceremony held at State House on Tuesday. Ambassador Makoto is the first Japanese envoy to be stationed locally, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two nations. According to a State House press statement, Ramkalawan congratulated Makoto on his appointment, highlighting the enduring friendship and robust cooperation between Seychelles and Japan. The President commended Japan for its «pivotal contributions» to Seychelles’ development over the years and expressed optimism about further enhancing the partnership. Makoto, expressing gratitude and honour in assuming the role, pledged to deepen the collaboration between the two countries. Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing cooperation in key areas, including maritime security, fisheries, environmental conservation, and climate change. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties for mutual prosperity. Japan established its Embassy in Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, on November 8, 2019. Previously, diplomatic representation was managed by a chargé d'affaires. The appointment of Ambassador Makoto underscores Japan’s growing commitment to its relationship with Seychelles. Madagascar seeks closer cooperation with Seychelles In a separate ceremony, the President also received Albert Camille Vital, the new Malagasy Ambassador to Seychelles, who presented his credentials also on Tuesday. Vital emphasised the longstanding relationship between Seychelles and Madagascar, noting that the Malagasy diaspora in Seychelles includes a great number of workers contributing to various sectors. “Seychelles and Madagascar’s relationship has always been a good one. We have a large diaspora in Seychelles with 2,000 Malagasy working in the country,” he stated during a press interview. Vital outlined plans to «consolidate and strengthen» the ties between the two nations and explore new areas of cooperation, including tourism, transport, trade, and agriculture. During his visit, Vital also held talks with Ambassador Selby Pillay, director for Bilateral Affairs in the Department of Foreign Affairs, at Maison Queau de Quinssy. They discussed plans to sign a bilateral agreement in 2025 and addressed the need for consular representation for Malagasy nationals in Seychelles. Both parties agreed to identify a suitable candidate to fill the position. Vital also met with members of the Malagasy community in Seychelles, who work in various sectors such as fisheries, education, medicine, and sports. 

Yalda Night adorns marketplaces

A woman is buying dried nuts for Yalda Night which is traditionally celebrated on the last day of the final month of autumn in the Iranian calendar that falls on December 20 this year.
Tehran Times

Yalda Night adorns marketplaces

A woman is buying dried nuts for Yalda Night which is traditionally celebrated on the last day of the final month of autumn in the Iranian calendar that falls on December 20 this year.

Intl. environmental exhibition kicks off

TEHRAN –The 22nd international environmental exhibition started on Wednesday in Tehran with the theme of ‘public involvement, green economy, sustainable future’.
Tehran Times

Intl. environmental exhibition kicks off

TEHRAN –The 22nd international environmental exhibition started on Wednesday in Tehran with the theme of ‘public involvement, green economy, sustainable future’.

President Mohamud confirms Turkish satellite base in Somalia

Mogadishu (HOL) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has confirmed that Turkey will establish a satellite launch base in Somalia, advancing Ankara's ambitions for long-range missile testing and space exploration while cementing its growing ties with the Horn o
Hiiraan Online

President Mohamud confirms Turkish satellite base in Somalia

Mogadishu (HOL) — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has confirmed that Turkey will establish a satellite launch base in Somalia, advancing Ankara's ambitions for long-range missile testing and space exploration while cementing its growing ties with the Horn of Africa nation.

Somalia repatriates 147 migrants stranded in Libya’s trafficking networks

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia, in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has ramped up its mission to rescue and repatriate citizens trapped in Libya's nightmarish trafficking network. The latest operati
Hiiraan Online

Somalia repatriates 147 migrants stranded in Libya’s trafficking networks

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia, in partnership with the European Union (EU) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has ramped up its mission to rescue and repatriate citizens trapped in Libya's nightmarish trafficking network. The latest operation brought 147 Somali migrants home, including 31 who landed in Hargeisa and 116 who continued to Mogadishu.

Legal analysis reveals risks of Ethiopia's maritime access to Somalia

Mogadishu (HOL) — A new report from the SIDRA Institute examines the recent Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia, providing a legal analysis of the agreement's impact on maritime access and Somalia's sovereignty. Signed on December 12, 2024, the
Hiiraan Online

Legal analysis reveals risks of Ethiopia's maritime access to Somalia

Mogadishu (HOL) — A new report from the SIDRA Institute examines the recent Ankara Declaration between Ethiopia and Somalia, providing a legal analysis of the agreement's impact on maritime access and Somalia's sovereignty. Signed on December 12, 2024, the deal grants Ethiopia conditional access to Somali ports, while ensuring that Somali authorities maintain control over its maritime resources.

Rwanda: John Legend to Headline Move Afrika 2025 in Kigali, Lagos

[New Times] Multi-award-winning American artiste and producer John Legend, popularly known for his hit song 'All of Me', is set to headline the Move Africa tour both in Kigali and Lagos in February, 2025.
AllAfrica News: Central Africa

Rwanda: John Legend to Headline Move Afrika 2025 in Kigali, Lagos

[New Times] Multi-award-winning American artiste and producer John Legend, popularly known for his hit song 'All of Me', is set to headline the Move Africa tour both in Kigali and Lagos in February, 2025.

Rwanda: Covid, Mpox, Bird Flu, Marburg - Why Viruses Jump From Animals to Humans

[New Times] As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of Covid-19 and Marburg virus disease (MVD), scientists are increasingly alarmed by the growing threat of zoonotic diseases--infections that jump from animals to humans.
AllAfrica News: Central Africa

Rwanda: Covid, Mpox, Bird Flu, Marburg - Why Viruses Jump From Animals to Humans

[New Times] As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of Covid-19 and Marburg virus disease (MVD), scientists are increasingly alarmed by the growing threat of zoonotic diseases--infections that jump from animals to humans.

Japanese car giants exploring merger to tackle China’s EV strength – media

Honda and Nissan are reportedly exploring a merger to compete with China’s booming electric car production   Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Japanese car giants exploring merger to tackle China’s EV strength – media

Honda and Nissan are reportedly exploring a merger to compete with China’s booming electric car production   Read Full Article at RT.com

Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine open to Moscow visit – Bloomberg

Keith Kellogg is set to visit Kiev next month, and reportedly also plans to travel to London, Paris and Rome, according to sources Read Full Article at RT.com
RT - Daily news

Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine open to Moscow visit – Bloomberg

Keith Kellogg is set to visit Kiev next month, and reportedly also plans to travel to London, Paris and Rome, according to sources Read Full Article at RT.com

Europe's security is intertwined with Ukraine's security

Foreign Minister Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörður Gylfadóttir attended a meeting of the leaders of the Joint Response Force (JRF) this week. The development of security issues in Europe, increased cooperation between the JRF countries and defense support fo
mbl.is - News in English

Europe's security is intertwined with Ukraine's security

Foreign Minister Þórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörður Gylfadóttir attended a meeting of the leaders of the Joint Response Force (JRF) this week. The development of security issues in Europe, increased cooperation between the JRF countries and defense support for Ukraine were discussed at the meeting, which ended yesterday.

Canceled the opening in Mt Bláfjöll

The ski resort in Mt Bláfjöll was scheduled to open for the first time this winter at 2 pm today. It was announced on the ski resort's Facebook page early this morning, but since the wind in the area has increased significantly and looks set to pick up
mbl.is - News in English

Canceled the opening in Mt Bláfjöll

The ski resort in Mt Bláfjöll was scheduled to open for the first time this winter at 2 pm today. It was announced on the ski resort's Facebook page early this morning, but since the wind in the area has increased significantly and looks set to pick up even more as the day progresses, Mt Bláfjöll will be closed today.