Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government mandates Chinese citizens to travel with armoured vehicles for safety in the region
Defence chiefs from U.S., Australia, Japan and Philippines vow to deepen cooperation
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the defence chiefs talked about increasing the tempo of their defence exercises
Mind the gap - but when does the gap become a 'death trap'?
A passenger who fell and hurt himself getting off a train says gaps to some platforms are too big.
DFCC Bank 68th AGM Concludes Successfully
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of shareholders of DFCC Bank PLC was held on March 28 2024, at the Banks Head Office Auditorium. Shareholders convened to vote on significant matters of business pertinent to the forthcoming fiscal year. Concurrently, the event provided DFCC Bank with a platform to showcase its notable achievements throughout the financial year 2023/24, a record-breaking year for the Bank across multiple metrics, including financial performance and the accomplishment of its sustainability goals. Prioritising sustainability alongside financial strength, DFCC Bank aims to move forward with resilience, creating enduring value for all Sri Lankans.
Indian couple, grandchild among four killed in multi-vehicle collision in Canada
TORONTO: Indian couple and their three-month-old grandchild were among four persons killed in a fiery multi-vehicle collision in Canada's Ontario province after police pursued a liquor store robbery suspect driving the wrong way. All four people were pronounced dead at the scene on Highway 401 in Whitby, about 50 kilometres east of Toronto, police said. Ontario's Special Investigations Unit (SIU) in a statement on Thursday said that two of the victims, a 60-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman, were visiting from India. SIU did not release the names of the victims. The couple's three-month-old grandson also died in the multi-vehicle collision, which closed Highway 401 for several hours on Monday, it said. The agency said that the parents of the infant, his 33-year-old father and 27-year-old mother, were travelling in the same vehicle and were taken to hospital. The mother's injuries are serious, the SIU said. The robbery suspect was also killed in the collision, which involved at least six vehicles. Officials have said the deadly car chase started with a liquor store robbery in Bowmanville and ended around 20 minutes later after the suspect in a cargo van led Durham police on a high-speed chase against opposing traffic on Highway 401. A 38-year-old male passenger from the cargo van was also taken to the hospital to be treated for serious injuries. The autopsies for the victims all happened in Toronto on Wednesday. Seven investigators, one forensic investigator and one collision reconstructionist continue to investigate this case, the statement said. The SIU is an agency called in to investigate whenever police are involved in a death, serious injury or allegations of sexual assault.
Video: Connecticut highway shut after tanker bursts in flames, damages bridge
Video: Connecticut highway shut after tanker bursts in flames, damages bridge
Key takeaways as early local election results indicate major losses for Tories
With fewer than a third of council elections declared so far, the Conservative party appears on course to lose up to 500 seats UK politics latest updates At the start of a long weekend of election results, the first outcomes have been every bit as dire for the Conservatives and Rishi Sunak as analyst had predicted. With fewer than a third of the council elections declared, and none of metro mayoral yet in, here is the current state of play. Continue reading...
James Corden: Final Gavin and Stacey episode written
James Corden has revealed on Instagram that he has written the final Gavin and Stacey episode.
Hamas sends delegation to Egypt for further ceasefire talks with Israel
Hamas delegation to Egypt for cease-fire talks amid progress in negotiations to end Israel-Hamas war in Gaza
U.K. Conservatives Suffer Sharp Setbacks in Early Results of Local Elections
The scale of the losses suffered by Prime Minister Rishi Sunaks party sent an ominous message about its chances in an upcoming general election.
Blackpool byelection shows Labour has clawed its way back in Brexit-voting areas
Result shows Starmer is heading for sizeable Westminster majority, while Sunak has failed to recover ground since taking over from Liz Truss For the fifth time since the start of 2023, Keir Starmer woke up on Friday morning to a byelection result that indicates that he will be prime minister by the end of the year. The Labour leader called the result in Blackpool South , where the partys candidate, Chris Webb, won with a swing of 26%, seismic and historic. Polling experts point out that even Tony Blair did not secure such a sustained series of strong byelection results in the run-up to his landslide election victory in 1997. Continue reading...
Israel builds 'cyber dome' against Iran's hackers
TEL AVIV: Israel's Iron Dome defence system has long shielded it from incoming rockets. Now it is building a cyber dome to defend against online attacks, especially from arch foe Iran. It is a silent war, one which is not visible, said Aviram Atzaba, the Israeli National Cyber Directorate's head of international cooperation. While Israel has fought Hamas in Gaza since the October 7 attack, it has also faced a significant increase in cyberattacks from Iran and its allies, Atzaba said. They are trying to hack everything they can, he told AFP, pointing to Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah movement but adding that so far hey have not succeeded in causing any real damage. He said around 800 significant attacks had been thwarted since the war erupted. Among the targets were government organisations, the military and civil infrastructure. Some attacks could not be foiled, including against hospitals in the cities of Haifa and Safed in which patient data was stolen. While Israel already has cyber defences, they long consisted of local efforts that were not connected, Atzaba said. So, for the past two years, the directorate has been working to build a centralised, real-time system that works proactively to protect all of Israeli cyberspace. Based in Tel Aviv, the directorate works under the authority of the prime minister. It does not reveal figures on its staff, budget or computing resources. Israel collaborates closely with multiple allies, including the United States, said Atzaba, because all states face cyber terrorism. It takes a network to fight a network, he said. 'An impressive enemy' Israel's arch foe Iran is an impressive enemy in the online wars, said Chuck Freilich, a researcher at the Institute for National Security Studies, which is affiliated with Tel Aviv University. Its attacks aim to sabotage and destroy infrastructure, but also to collect data for intelligence and spread false information for propaganda purposes, he said. Iran has welcomed Hamas's October 7 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive against Hamas has killed at least 34,596 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Hamas-run territory's health ministry. Is Israel's Iron Dome missile defence system ironclad?What happens if Hezbollah enters war? Regional tensions have soared, particularly after Iran for the first time fired hundreds of missiles directly at Israel last month in retaliation for a deadly Israeli air strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. It was the most dramatic escalation yet after a years-long shadow war of killings and sabotage attacks between Israel and Iran. Freilich argued in a study published in February that Iran was relatively slow to invest in cyberwarfare, until two key events triggered a change. First, its leaders took note of how anti-government protesters used the internet as a tool to mobilise support for a 2009 post-election uprising. In the bloody crackdown that crushed the movement, Iran's authorities cut access to social media and websites covering the protests. Then, in September 2010, a sophisticated cyberattack using the Stuxnet virus, blamed by Iran on Israel and the United States, caused physical damage to Tehran's nuclear programme. Freilich said the attack demonstrated Iran's extreme vulnerability and led to a severe national shock. Since then, Iran has gained substantial expertise to become one of the most active countries in cyberspace, he said. 'Concern for future' While Israel is considered a major cyber power, Iran was only likely to improve, said Freilich. He pointed to assistance from Russia and China, as well as its much larger population and an emphasis on cyber training for students and soldiers alike, adding that the trend was concerning for the future. Atzaba insisted that the quantity of hackers is secondary to the quality of technology and the use it is put to. For the past two years, we have been developing a cyber dome against cyberattacks, which functions like the Iron Dome against rockets, he said. With cyber dome, all sources are fed into a large data pool that enables a view of the big picture and to invoke a national response in a comprehensive and coordinated manner. The Israeli system has various scanners that continuously monitor Israeli cyberspace for vulnerabilities and informs the stakeholders of the means to mitigate them, he said. Israel's cyber strength relied on close cooperation between the public, private and academic sectors, as well as Israel's white hat hackers who help identify weaknesses. We work hand in hand, he said. Iron Dome defence system explained: Why Hamas rockets fail to hit targets in Israel?
Rolling coverage of the latest economic and financial news Rail ticket platform Trainline are the top riser on the FTSE 250 after doubling its operating profits in the last year. Trainline reported that its operating profits rose by 101% in the year to 29th February, from 28m to 56m. Continue reading...
3 hurt as train rams oil tanker train in Joydebpur Junction
Rail link snapped following accident
Russia denies U.S. accusation of using chemical agent chloropicrin in Ukraine
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Russia did not violate international ban on chemical weapons
Apple iPhone sales fall in nearly all markets
The tech giant says demand for its smartphones fell more than 10% in the first three months of the year.
Press freedom index: Bangladesh falls 2 spots, only Afghanistan worse in South Asia
The country was ranked 165th among 180 nations, placing it only above Afghanistan among South Asian countries
Cruise Ship makes maiden call at HIP
Cruise ship Serenade of the Seas made her maiden call at the Hambantota International Port (HIP) on Monday 29th April. The luxury liner, which carried 1,950 passengers and 890 crew members, was the 10th cruise ship to call at HIP for the year 2024. The Serenade of the Seas launched in 2003 is one of global cruise shipping company, Royal Caribbean Internationals Radiance Class vessels built to travel to far flung exotic destinations. The port welcomed the ship with a plaque presentation held on board. Officials of HIPG & HIPS along with representatives from the local vessel agents, Prudential Shipping, attended the event. The liners next call is the Colombo Port. HIPS CEO, Captain Ravi Jayawickreme presenting Captain Kjell Nordmo with a plaque to mark the maiden call Prudential Shipping, HIPS and HIPG officials with Captain Kjell Nordmo
UK's governing Conservatives suffer big losses in local elections as Labour appears headed for power
LONDON: Britain's governing Conservative Party is suffering heavy losses as local election results pour in Friday, piling pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ahead of a U.K. general election in which the main opposition Labour Party appears increasingly likely to return to power after 14 years. Labour won control of councils in England it hasn't held for decades and was successful in a special by-election for Parliament. Its only negative has been in some areas with large Muslim populations, such as Oldham in northwest England, where the party's candidates appear to have suffered as a result of leader Keir Starmer 's strongly pro-Israel stance in the conflict in Gaza. Perhaps of most importance in the context of the looming general election, Labour won Blackpool South, a long-time Labour seat in the northwest of England that went Conservative in the last general election in 2019, when then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson won a big victory. In the contest, triggered by the resignation of a Conservative lawmaker following a lobbying scandal, Labours Chris Webb secured 10,825 votes, 7,607 more than his second-placed Conservative opponent. This seismic win in Blackpool South is the most important result today, Starmer said. This is the one contest where voters had the chance to send a message to Rishi Sunaks Conservatives directly, and that message is an overwhelming vote for change. Thursdays elections were important in themselves, with voters deciding who will run many aspects of their daily lives, such as garbage collection, road maintenance and local crime prevention, in the coming years. But with a general election looming, they will be viewed through a national prism. The results so far provide more evidence that Labour is likely to form the next government and by quite a margin and that Starmer will become prime minister. As of early Friday, with barely a quarter of the 2,661 seats up for grabs counted, the Conservatives were down 115 while Labour was up 60. Labour has won in areas, which voted heavily for Britain's departure from the European Union and where it was crushed by Johnson, such as Hartlepool in the northeast of England, and Thurrock in southeast England. It also seized control of Rushmoor, a leafy and military-heavy council in the south of England where it has never been in power. What is at stake in UK local voting ahead of a looming general election John Curtice, professor of politics at the University of Strathclyde, said the results so far indicate that the Conservatives are losing around half of the seats they are trying to defend. We are probably looking at certainly one of the worst, if not the worst, Conservative performances in local government elections for the last 40 years, he told BBC radio. The results will roll in through Saturday. Sunak hopes he can point to successes, notably in several key mayoral races, to douse talk that the Conservative Party will change its leader again before the United Kingdoms main election, which could take place as soon as next month. Key to his survival could be the results of mayoral elections in Tees Valley in the northeast of England and in the West Midlands. The former is due Friday midday and the latter on Saturday. Should Conservative mayors Andy Street and Ben Houchen hold on, he may win some respite from restive lawmakers in his party. Should both lose, he may face trouble. Labour's Sadiq Khan is expected to remain mayor of London when results are announced on Saturday.. Sunak could preempt any challenge by threatening to call a general election that has to take place before January 2025. He has the power to decide on the date and has indicated that it will be in the second half of 2024. Sunak became prime minister in October 2022 after the short-lived tenure of his predecessor, Liz Truss, who left office after 49 days following a budget of unfunded tax cuts that roiled financial markets and sent borrowing costs for homeowners surging. Her chaotic and traumatic leadership compounded the Conservatives' difficulties following the circus surrounding her predecessor Johnson, who was forced to quit after being adjudged to have lied to Parliament over lockdown breaches at his offices in Downing Street. Nothing Sunak has tried to do appears to have shifted the political dial, with Labour consistently 20 percentage points ahead in opinion polls, which would lead, if translated into a general election, to a landslide victory on a par with that achieved by Tony Blair in 1997. UK PM Rishi Sunak's leadership in turmoil amid infighting
Anjan Dutt's film on Mrinal Sen to simultaneously release in theatres and OTT
The film delves into the story of the intricate friendship between legendary filmmaker Mrinal Sen and Anjan Dutt, exploring their bond within the framework of a cinematic narrative.
Prom Dates review grating high school comedy is a low-rent disaster
Disastrous romp from producer Kevin Hart sees two teens desperately search for prom dates with unfunny results There are good reasons why many American teens stress about prom: its expensive, heightened, fraught with status and identity; the photos will haunt you forever; its a coming-of-age milestone freighted with significance, thanks in part to countless films and TV shows in which teens stress about prom. To that canon there is now a new throwaway entry: Hulus Prom Dates, a cringeworthy comedy produced by Kevin Hart, which posits that in the year 2024, two seemingly self-possessed girls sincerely believe that having a prom date any prom date, but especially a cool one is the single most important thing in the world. That its the one reason to stay in a cartoonishly terrible relationship, or go on a fishing expedition in search of passable strangers to drag back for one night in high school. This is just one of the many grating elements in Prom Dates, directed by Kim O Nguyen from a script by DJ Mausner. Others include, in no particular order: overuse of jokes, however well-meaning and couched in a razor-thin plot of acceptance, predicated on stereotypes of lesbians in lieu of cleverness; extremely off-putting, self-obsessed characters; overweening performances; gratuitous projectiles of vomit and/or blood as desperate bids for laughs; an overly hammy character named Greg (Kenny Ridwan) that queasily milks the stereotype of the emasculated, nerdy Asian male. (All of these issues recall the woefully ill-conceived HBO series Generation , a one-star review that haunts me, which is maybe part of the problem.) Continue reading...
Trump trial to continue after vivid testimony from Stormy Daniels lawyer
Court hears that Keith Davidson texted National Enquirer editor on night of Trumps 2016 victory to say What have we done? Donald Trumps Manhattan criminal trial enters its 11th day following raucous testimony about his increasingly unhinged underling and the tawdry business of celebrity sex scandals. Keith Davidson, the attorney representing Stormy Daniels and Karen McDougal, returned to the witness stand on Thursday. Davidson was grilled on his communications with former National Enquirer editor Dylan Howard around the 2016 election and Michael Cohen, Trumps then fixer. Continue reading...
Simon Chambers film about his late uncle David makes for candid and compelling viewing. Along with one of Davids former pupils, and a fan of his film, he talks care, contempt and infatuation Ive always liked the company of older people, says Julian Clary, still smoothly beautiful at 64. I like the fact theyve lived a life they are often assumed not to have done. He pauses. What old people dont know about recreational sex, he continues, cadence familiar as a cuckoo, you could write on the back of an incontinence pad. There are plenty of those knocking about in Much Ado About Dying , a documentary about Clarys old drama teacher. But David Gale 86 when we first have the pleasure does not put them to their intended use. They plug holes in the wall, drafts in the window. One becomes a tea cosy. Continue reading...
Stop trying to turn Dungeons & Dragons into a Marvel-esque cash cow it wont work
The way that Wizards of the Coast is treating this venerable game is totally at odds with how its players see it The words hit players of the worlds favourite tabletop role playing game like a magic missile straight to the heart. Dungeons & Dragons has never been more popular, and we have really great fans and engagement, said Cynthia Williams, former CEO of D&D publisher Wizards of the Coast, in December 2022 at an investor-focused web seminar. But the brand is really under-monetised. In the run-up to D&Ds 50th birthday this year, the branded tat has flowed with a vengeance. Amid the ongoing celebrations, Williams comments have acquired the ring of a terrible prophecy coming to fruition in the tackiest way imaginable. D&D is monetising as never before, and it is terrible to behold. Continue reading...
The policy has always been a sordid theatre of cruelty, and it is unravelling in ways that were entirely predictable Handcuffed and surrounded, faces pixelated for the video as if they were dangerous criminals, one by one they were bundled into vans. Doors slammed. Keys clicked in locks. The crude political message from this disturbing eve of election video , showing men and women being rounded up for deportation to Rwanda, couldnt have been clearer despite Whitehall rules precluding partisan activities so close to polling day. But hey, whats a row over election purdah, given the amount of souls sold to get this far? All that matters to this government now is getting someone on a plane to Kigali in front of the TV cameras, a tunnel vision that has so far spectacularly failed to woo back lost voters, while costing the country years of parliamentary and legal wrangling, roughly half a billion pounds, and now yet another rift with friends and allies. Continue reading...
Chaos, mediocrity and unadulterated stress: the end of another football season | Max Rushden
Last year I logged into iFollow to watch Cambridge maintain their League One status. This year I did exactly the same As middle age creeps along, I am continually finding new, and less interesting, ways to measure the passing of time. For much of my 20s and all of my 30s I lived on a street with a food market and after a coupleof years of burritos and Turkish flatbreads, I realised the greatest advantage was the refuse collection. Everydaywas bin day. I took this freedom and wild abandon for waste completely for granted. I didnt have to plan or think or tear cardboard boxes to shreds. Just toss a plastic bag on the street before 5pm and it was whisked away. I was truly alive. Now its a Sunday evening ritual: peer down the street is it recycling or garden waste? That time again, eh, Frank? Feels like it was only last week we were dragging the yellow bin on to the curb. Do you have space in your green bin, Janet? Ive been doing some pruning. There we all are, wheel them out and wait for the 6am trash-truck Monday morning chorus. Another week closer to death. Continue reading...
From joint accounts to wealthier friends why is money so hard to talk about?
Money is always the elephant in the room, and can be even harder to talk about than sex but we can all benefit from a frank conversation, says Annalisa Barbieri, kicking off our You be the judge money special The one item you will never see ina currency exchange table iswhat money sooften stands in for. It can take the place of things like love, thought, safety, attention or fairness. And the inverse is also true; you often dont need to spend a lot of money to make someone feel loved, or cared for. Ask any parent who has been the recipient of a homemade birthday cardor present. When I speak to divorce lawyers and mediators, they say that money is seldom overtly mentioned as a reason for the breakup. But its there, hiding in the tales of neglect, control, secrecy, lack of attention, meanness. And it is money, of course, that is so often used at the end of a separation to settle scores, be it a breakdown in a relationship or after a death, and be it between spouses, siblings, friends or even a child and parent. Often all the perceived injustices of life lived up to that point come out. I could fill acolumn a week with letters I receive about wills and estates. Continue reading...
Challengers got everything right about my sport apart from the sexiness | Andrea Petkovic
I played on tour for 16 years and I was ready for Luca Guadagninos new movie to fail. But its the most accurate depiction of the tennis life I have seen on screen On a hot spring day in Munich, I went to a small movie theatre in the basement of an apartment building, dreading the prospect of missing an evening in the setting sun, possibly with a Bavarian beer in hand. The whole city seemed to be anxiously anticipating the upcoming Champions League semi-final between Bayern Munich and Real Madrid . People roamed the streets, trying to find a place to watch football with their friends. I, on the other hand, was on my way to see Luca Guadagninos new movie, Challengers . I was ready to see it fail. For context, I played on the tennis tour for 16 years and retired at the US Open two years ago. Youve probably never heard of me. There are two reasons for that. With perfect timing, I retired at the same time as Serena Williams. Reason number two: I never had Serenas career. Its OK. One can thrive in so many other ways. Andrea Petkovic is an author and a former world top-10 tennis player. Continue reading...
Chess: Magnus Carlsen calls Ding Liren broken as teenage star Gukesh emerges
The former world champion fears for the current holder, who is out of form before title defence against 17-year-old Gukesh Dommaraju Magnus Carlsen fears that Ding Liren may have been permanently broken following the world champions poor performances at Wijk aan Zee in January and in the Freestyle event in Germany in March. Carlsen, who remains the world No1 despite abdicating the title in 2023 after a 10-year reign, made his comments on a podcast last week in which he and David Howell also discussed the Candidates at Toronto and the surprise victory for Indias Gukesh Dommaraju, 17. Ding won the crown one year ago this week by defeating Ian Nepomniachtchi in a tense match which went to tie-breaks. Shortly afterwards he stopped playing for six months, citing lack of motivation plus an unspecified illness, which some sources said was anxiety or depression. At one stage he considered retirement. Continue reading...
Week in wildlife in pictures: a giant hamster, a mustachoied deer and a zebra on the run
The best of this weeks wildlife photographs from around the world Continue reading...
50 rising startups in Indonesia
Which startups are on the path to becoming the next big thing?
Turkey halts trade with Israel over Gaza humanitarian crisis
Turkey halts all imports and exports with Israel due to Gaza humanitarian crisis, escalating tensions between the two nations
Myanmar stops men from working abroad as war intensifies
Authorities said they would suspend accepting applications for overseas work permits.
During the conversation, Rashmai Desai also opened up about a phase where she experimented with emulating Kim Kardashian's style, only to find it didn't resonate with her audience. Reflecting on this period, she spoke about body image, she said,
Britains governing Conservative Party is suffering heavy losses as local election results pour in Friday, piling pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak ahead of a U.K. general election in which the main opposition Labour Party appears increasingly likely to return to power after 14 years
Swara Bhasker has said that there is a big difference between her and Kangana and their names shouldn't be taken in the same breath.
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka High Commission in Male, Maldives and Sri Lanka Maldives Business Council (SLMBC) will be organizing a group of 19 exporters including 15 SME entrepreneurs to participate at Hotel Asia Exhibition & International Culinary Challenge 2024. It is the Maldives biggest and best annual food and hospitality event, which brings together all those who are involved in the tourism sector in one location. The event will be held from 13 th to 15 th May 2023 at Dharubaaruge Exhibition Hall, Male, Maldives. Maldives is a potential market for many of Sri Lankan products due to their high dependency on imports to meet most of their requirements. Maldives imports various products to meet its domestic needs, such as refined petroleum, food preparations, rice, wheat, and machinery. In 2023, goods worth around US $ 3.47 billion have been imported to the Maldives from Oman, China, India, Malaysia, UAE, Singapore, USA, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and France. This value is more than doubled compared to the import value a decade ago. About 95% of the Maldives food consumption, including tourism sector consumption is met by imports and a substantial amount of food and beverages, accounting to around US $ 60 million had been imported, primarily from India, Sri Lanka, and the UAE in year 2023. Maldives is the 23 rd export destination for Sri Lanka. Total export value from Sri Lanka to Maldives was US $ 112.54 Mn in 2023 and total imports from Maldives to Sri Lanka for the same period were US $ 2.99 Mn. Sri Lankas main export products to Maldives in 2023 were insulated wires and cables, sugars, sugar confectionery & bakery products, cereals and products, meat, preparations of meat/fish & dairy produce, fruits and vegetables. Also, potential products from Sri Lanka to Maldives are wheat flour, fresh or chilled vegetables, prepared or preserved nuts & other seeds, black tea, fresh fruits, electric conductors, fresh or dried pineapples, sweet biscuits, bars & rods of iron or non-alloy steel. The exhibition attracts visitors from resorts, hotels, guest houses, safari boat operators and owners, restaurants and cafeterias to explore the products and services offered by international and local exhibitors. The event will create a platform for Sri Lankan exporters to gain insights into the latest trends, innovations, and developments in the industry, as well as take advantage of the networking opportunities. It covers a wide range of products and services, including food and beverage, catering equipment & services, furniture, furnishing & tableware, and health leisure & equipment, construction of water & wastewater systems, all kinds of cleaning chemicals for hotels & resorts, and design, supply & installation of ventilation system etc. The expected benefits from the programme are to expand market share for value-added products and identify opportunities for new products and services, find new buyers and strengthen existing contacts, provide opportunities for SME companies to enter the Maldives market, promote Sri Lankan products brands and secure more opportunities from Maldives buyers. In general, the programme create a platform for discussion and exchange of knowledge between the participants, Maldivian professionals of the industry and Trade Associations. Sri Lankan companies will also get the opportunity to interact with exhibitors participating from various countries at the exhibition. A networking event will also be organized by the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Maldives for the Sri Lankan delegation giving opportunities for further networking. Pre-fair Workshop in preparing the participants for a successful participation at the fair was also held on 4 th April 2024 by an EDB team of officers trained by IPD (International Promotion Desk) Germany. Image Captions : A discussion with participants of the fair was held at the EDB on 2 nd April 2024 with the participation of His Excellency High Commissioner designated to the Republic of the Maldives Mr. P.R.S. Goonawardene, Chairman/ Chief Executive Officer of EDB Dr. Kingsly Bernard and Director Regional Development of EDB Mrs. Seplika Jayawardene, President Sri Lanka Maldives Business Council Mr. Sudesh Mendis and other officials to detail them about the fair, its requirements to be met and preparation for participation.
Russian troops enter base housing U.S. military in Niger, U.S. official says
Russian military enters Niger air base hosting U.S. troops, raising concerns about proximity and future of American presence
ComBank hosts awareness programme on drone technology for Apura paddy farmers
Farmers in Sri Lankas North Central Province were recently exposed to the functionalities of drones in the modernisation of agricultural practices, at an awareness programme organised by the Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC in collaboration with Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka. More than 100 farmers in the Thambuttegama area in the Anuradhapura District as well as some students were briefed by experts on how drones could be used for seeding paddy lands and in the application of fertiliser and agrochemicals, and help resolve the issue of labour shortages. This invaluable knowledge coupled with live demonstrations, was provided by representatives of the Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka and Aerogenii Drone Services, an end-to-end drone solutions provider, with the support of officials of the Banks Development Credit Department, which is the initiator of the programme. Sri Lankas agriculture needs to transition to the modern era by adopting the appropriate technological advancements that are revolutionising the way food crops are grown, harvested and processed, Commercial Bank Deputy General Manager Personal Banking Mr Delakshan Hettiarachchi commented. As one of the biggest lenders to the countrys agriculture sector, Commercial Bank is best positioned to be a catalyst for this transition, and we are committed to invest funds, time and expertise to help make it happen. The Bank said the objective of the programme is to promote the adoption of modern technology in paddy farming and other cultivation activities, by educating farmers on how the use of drones and other innovations is more cost effective and time conserving when compared with manual labour, in addition to addressing labour shortages. The Bank said it plans to conduct similar awareness sessions in other agricultural areas of the country under the Commercial Banks Agri Modernisation Programme. Programmes of this nature are supported by the Banks 19 Agriculture & Micro Finance Units (AMFU) which play a key role in helping the Bank to identify specific needs of entrepreneurs who require assistance to develop either their agriculture activities or micro businesses. These units are dedicated to promoting agriculture lending and micro finance. Commercial Banks Agriculture & Micro Finance Units are located in Ratnapura, Narammala, Nawalapitiya, Marawila, Anuradhapura, Kilinochchi, Bandarawela, Wellawaya, Hingurakgoda, Galewela, Achchuveli, Vavuniya, Chenkalady, Deniyaya, Tissamaharama, Udugama, Pottuvil, Elpitiya, and Akkaraipattu. Sri Lankas first 100% carbon neutral bank, Commercial Bank is the largest private sector bank in Sri Lanka and the first Sri Lankan bank to be listed among the Top 1000 Banks of the World. The Bank is the largest lender to Sri Lankas SME sector, and is a leader in digital innovation in the countrys Banking sector. Commercial Bank has the widest international footprint among Sri Lankan Banks, with 20 outlets in Bangladesh, a Microfinance company in Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar, and a fully-fledged Tier I Bank with a majority stake in the Maldives. Photo caption: A demonstration of drone technology for agriculture modernisation.
Live coverage of the 2024 local, mayoral and police and crime commissioner elections.
Israel president says US universities contaminated with anti-Semitism
Israel president says US universities contaminated with anti-Semitism, as he addresses Jewish students and pro-Israel activists. Watch
US Man Who Forced Son To Run On Treadmill Blames Death On Pneumonia
The prosecutors disagreed with the argument and said it was his father's chronic abuse that left Corey with internal injuries that ultimately cost him his life.
Dead Poets Society Has Some Distinctly Australian Relevance
Brought to life by the Australian director Peter Weir, the movies conflict reflects a collective cultural trait his fellow citizens can relate to.
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley review a seriously fun sci-fi romcom
A bureaucrat in near-future London finds love with a Victorian Arctic explorer in a thrilling debut that takes a deep dive into human morality For a book to be good really good, keep it on your shelf for ever good it has to be two things: fun and a stretch . You have to need to know what happens next; and you have to feel like a bigger or better version of yourself at the end. Airport thrillers are almost always fun; much contemporary autofiction is just a stretch, largely because its very hard for a book in which not much happens to be a page-turner. What a thrill, then, to come to Kaliane Bradleys debut, The Ministry of Time, a novel where things happen, lots of them, and all of them are exciting to read about and interesting to think about. Bradleys book is also serious, it must be said or, at least, covers serious subjects. The British empire, murder, government corruption, the refugee crisis, climate change, the Cambodian genocide, Auschwitz, 9/11 and the fallibility of the human moral compass all fall squarely within Bradleys remit. Fortunately, however, these vast themes are handled deftly and in deference to character and plot. Continue reading...
Colombia breaks diplomatic ties with Israel but its military relies on key Israeli-built equipment
Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday described Israel's actions in Gaza as genocide and announced his government would end diplomatic relations with Israel effective Thursday
Ron Kaufman, Global Customer Experience Guru, Upcoming Event in Sri Lanka
Renowned Global Customer Experience Guru Ron Kaufman will lead an event in Sri Lanka on 6 June 2024 at Waters Edge, Battaramulla, on uplifting customer service and elevating organizational excellence amidst challenging contexts. Sri Lanka is emerging from its worst-ever economic crisis. Organizations now face a vastly different business landscape and must navigate changing customer needs and the accelerated adoption of new technologies. It is vital for organizations to transform accordingly, assessing their strengths and augmenting their services while maintaining business excellence amidst this evolving business landscape. Sri Lankas businesses must deliver exceptional customer experiences to aggressively stand out in the global market and drive value. This is essential to differentiate themselves from competitors and remain viable. This event will focus on Sri Lankas current contexts and challenges, providing unique insights for organizations seeking to transform the services they offer to their client base. From C-suite executives to managers to customer service executives, this program is designed to benefit entrepreneurs and professionals at all levels. Attendees can expect a deeper understanding of proven strategies to build sustainable service models in a time of flux, how to address gaps in service execution, how to bring cross-functional teams together, how to deliver more value for their organization, and more. This event will benefit leaders, teams, and organizations in leisure & travel, airlines, logistics, IT/Software BPO services, banks & financial services, insurance, telecom, retail business, hospitals, education, real estate, various professional services, exporters and investor services (eg: BOI, Port city). Ron Kaufman, who led an event in Sri Lanka in 2017, has built a globally renowned reputation as a leading educator on Uplifting Service performance and Building Service Cultures. With over 30 years of experience, he brings insights and best practices to audiences worldwide. Ron Kaufman has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Harvard Business Review. He is the author of the New York Times bestselling book Uplifting Service: The Proven Path and 14 other books on customer service, business, and inspiration. Ron Kaufmans vast client portfolio over the years includes Microsoft, Coca-Cola, Singapore Airlines, HP, Nokia Networks, Marina Bay Sands, and many more. Ron Kaufmans event in Sri Lanka is organized by BNI Sri Lanka, the local arm of BNI (Business Network International), the worlds largest referral networking organization. With nearly four decades in operation, BNI has amassed over 324,000 members worldwide across 11,100 chapters in 77 countries. In the last 12 months, BNI members have generated US$22.1 billion worth of business. In Sri Lanka alone, the BNI network comprises 15 chapters across the country, with over 500 members and growing. Recently, BNI Sri Lanka has locally passed over 28,683 referrals, generating over LKR 4.1 billion in successful new business foritsmembers. BNI is changing the way the world does business. Ron Kaufmans event, Uplifting Customer Experience: No Matter What Happens in the Economy, the Industry, or the World, will be held on 6 June 2024 at Waters Edge, Battaramulla. Registration Fee is LKR 25,000. Concessionary rates are offered to members of numerous professional bodies, Trade Chambers, and business associations to reach a wider spectrum of stakeholders. For more information, please visit https://buildingaglobalsrilanka.com . For inquiries, please contact Heshani on 0706677281 or Pravinth on 0763156502.
Apple making significant investments in GenAI, to share very exciting things soon
New Delhi, May 3 (IANS) Apple is making significant investments in generative AI, and that has some very exciting things to share with customers soon, its [] The post Apple making significant investments in GenAI, to share very exciting things soon appeared first on Sarkaritel.com .
As the global trend towards contactless payments continues to surge, Sampath Bank proudly unveils its latest innovation: Sampath PayBand, the versatile Wearable Payment Device. This groundbreaking solution promises to redefine the transaction landscape in Sri Lanka, catering to the evolving preferences of the younger generation and tech-savvy consumers. Representing a significant milestone as the countrys first of its kind, Sampath PayBand, heralds a new era in convenient and secure transactions. Designed with a meticulous focus on enhancing the customer experience and streamlining payment processes, Sampath PayBand features a sleek Silicon Wristband embedded with a payment chip. Seamlessly integrated with Sampath Bank Savings accounts, this cutting-edge device empowers users to effortlessly make transactions with a simple tap or wave at any NFC-enabled POS terminal. Gone are the days of cumbersome wallets, forgotten cards, and misplaced phones Sampath PayBand offers unparalleled convenience at every touchpoint. At Sampath Bank, we are dedicated to driving innovation and embracing emerging technologies to meet the evolving needs of our customers, said Mr. Shiran Kossinna Assistant General Manager Card Centre at Sampath Bank. With the introduction of Sampath PayBand, a Wearable Payment Device, we aim to provide a seamless and hassle-free shopping experience, empowering our customers with the freedom to make cashless payments effortlessly. Sampath PayBand offers a plethora of benefits to users: Convenient : Seamlessly make payments with a simple tap or wave. Innovative : Embrace cutting-edge payment technology for seamless transactions. Swift : Complete transactions swiftly, outpacing traditional methods. Productive : Leverage wearable technology to boost engagement and productivity Lifestyle oriented : Enjoy compatibility with modern payment methods that align seamlessly with customer preferences. Launched in partnership with VISA, a global payment card services corporation facilitating electronic funds transfers throughout the world, the Sampath PayBand underscores the Banks dedication to providing cutting-edge banking solutions that meet the evolving needs of todays consumers, offering convenience, security, and peace of mind. Being the first of its kind in Sri Lanka, Sampath PayBand stands as a unique and compelling offering for consumers. Unaffected by rain or shine, work or party, the product is the ideal choice of the Gen Z and tech-savvy generation who look for convenience, versatility and fashion when selecting products for their use. Sampath PayBand, will be available to all existing and new account holders at select Sampath bank branches from mid-June onwards where interested customers will receive personalized assistance and guidance on setup and usage upon acquiring a device. Sampath Bank is one of Sri Lankas leading private sector commercial banks, renowned for offering a wide range of innovative financial products and services to its customers. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction, Sampath Bank continues to drive growth and innovation in the banking industry.
Apple logs strong double-digit growth in India, to produce more in country: Tim Cook
New Delhi, May 3 (IANS) Apple registered strong double-digit growth in India in the March quarter this year and the company will continue to expand its [] The post Apple logs strong double-digit growth in India, to produce more in country: Tim Cook appeared first on Sarkaritel.com .
Mizoram police & Assam Rifles seize 200 kg explosives, 200 detonators
AIZAWL: A major tragedy was averted as troopers of the Assam Rifles along with Mizoram police personnel seized a huge quantity of explosives near Aizawl. Personnel of the Assam Rifles and Mizoram police seized a total of 1622 (200 kilograms) gelatin sticks and 200 detonators at Silaimual area on the outskirts of Aizawl. During the [] The post Mizoram police & Assam Rifles seize 200 kg explosives, 200 detonators appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .
US: Over 2,000 arrested amid university protests against Israel-Hamas conflict
At least 2,000 people have been arrested at college campuses across the United States in recent weeks over protests against the Israel-Hamas war.
Nearly 2,200 people have been arrested during pro-Palestinian protests on US college campuses
LOS ANGELES (AP) Police have arrested nearly 2,200 people during pro-Palestinian protests at college campuses across the United States in recent weeks, sometimes using riot gear, tactical vehicles and flash-bang devices to clear tent encampments and occupied buildings. One officer accidentally discharged his gun inside a Columbia University administration building while clearing out protesters camped inside, authorities said. No one was injured by the officer's mistake late Tuesday inside Hamilton Hall on the Columbia campus, the NYPD said Thursday. He was trying to use the flashlight attached to his gun at the time and instead fired a single round that struck a frame on the wall. There were other officers but no students in the immediate vicinity, officials said. Body camera footage shows when the officer's gun went off, but the district attorney's office is conducting a review, a standard practice. Police break up protests, make arrests at UCLA, Yale, Dartmouth, New York schools More than 100 people were taken into custody during the Columbia crackdown, just a fraction of the total arrests stemming from recent campus protests over the Israel-Hamas war. A tally by The Associated Press recorded at least 56 incidents of arrests at 43 different U.S. colleges or universities since April 18. The figures are based on AP reporting and statements from universities and law enforcement agencies. Early Thursday, officers surged against a crowd of demonstrators at University of California, Los Angeles, ultimately taking at least 200 protesters into custody after hundreds defied orders to leave, some forming human chains as police fired flash-bangs to break up the crowds. Police tore apart a fortified encampments barricade of plywood, pallets, metal fences and dumpsters, then pulled down canopies and tents. Like at UCLA, tent encampments of protesters calling on universities to stop doing business with Israel or companies they say support the war in Gaza have spread across other campuses nationwide in a student movement unlike any other this century. Israel has branded the protests antisemitic, while Israels critics say it uses those allegations to silence opposition. Although some protesters have been caught on camera making antisemitic remarks or violent threats, protest organizers some of whom are Jewish call it a peaceful movement to defend Palestinian rights and protest the war. President Joe Biden on Thursday defended the right of students to peaceful protest but decried the disorder of recent days. The demonstrations began at Columbia on April 17 with students calling for an end to the Israel-Hamas war, which has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, according to the Health Ministry there. Israel launched its offensive in Gaza after Hamas militants killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, on Oct. 7 and took roughly 250 hostages in an attack on southern Israel. On April 18, the NYPD cleared Columbia's initial encampment and arrested roughly 100 protesters. The demonstrators set up new tents and defied threats of suspension, and escalated their actions early Tuesday by occupying Hamilton Hall, an administration building that was similarly seized in 1968 by students protesting racism and the Vietnam War. Roughly 20 hours later, officers stormed the hall. Video showed police with zip ties and riot shields streaming through a second-floor window. Police had said protesters inside presented no substantial resistance. The officer's gun went off at 9:38 p.m., the NYPD said, about 10 minutes after police started pouring into Hamilton Hall. The department did not name the officer, whose actions were first reported by news outlet The City on Thursday. Hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters remain on UCLA campus despite police ordering them to leave The confrontations at UCLA also played out over several days this week. UCLA Chancellor Gene Block told alumni on a call Thursday afternoon that the trouble started after a permitted pro-Israel rally was held on campus Sunday and fights broke out and live mice were tossed into the pro-Palestinian encampment later that day. In the following days, administrators tried to find a peaceful solution with members of the encampment and expected things to remain stable, Block said. That changed late Tuesday, he said, when counterdemonstrators attacked the pro-Palestinian encampment. Campus administrators and police did not intervene or call for backup for hours. No one was arrested that night, but at least 15 protesters were injured. The delayed response drew criticism from political leaders, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom, and officials pledged an independent review. New York police clear pro-Palestinian protesters from Columbia University after occupation By Wednesday, the encampment had become much more of a bunker and there was no other solution but to have police dismantle it, Block said. The hourslong standoff went into Thursday morning as officers warned over loudspeakers that there would be arrests if the crowd at the time more than 1,000 strong inside the encampment as well as outside of it did not disperse. Hundreds left voluntarily, while another 200-plus remained and were ultimately taken into custody. Meanwhile, protest encampments at other schools across the U.S. have been cleared by police resulting in more arrests or closed voluntarily. But University of Minnesota officials reached an agreement with protesters not to disrupt commencements, and similar compromises have been made at Northwestern University in suburban Chicago, Rutgers University in New Jersey and Brown University in Rhode Island. Israel-Hamas war protesters and police clash on Texas campus, Columbia University begins suspensions
Thakral Group Presents The Future of Possible Showcasing DJIs Technological Innovation in Sri Lanka
The Kingsbury Hotel in Colombo was abuzz with excitement as Thakral Group, the authorized distributor of DJI in Sri Lanka, unveiled The Future of Possible. This exclusive event was a testament to the relentless pursuit of innovation and progress in the country. The event offered attendees an immersive experience into DJIs latest offerings., spanning consumer electronics, enterprise solutions, agricultural technology, and delivery systems. From high-performance drones to specialized solutions tailored for diverse industries, DJI left a lasting impression on all who experienced their cutting-edge offerings. DJI, a global leader in civilian drones and aerial imaging technology,presented its latest products and solutions tailored to revolutionize industries and enhance daily life.Experts from DJI took the stage, showcasing the practical applications of their products and demonstrating how these technologies can seamlessly integrate into professional and everyday scenarios. The event provided a platform for partners, customers, and key decision-makers from government bodies, as well as doctors and professors from top universities across the country, to explore the vast potential of DJIs innovations. Networking opportunities flourished as industry leaders, academics, and government officials came together, laying the groundwork for future collaborations that promise to drive technological advancement across Sri Lanka. The Future of Possible served as a platform for dialogue, igniting discussions on the integration of DJIs technologies into various sectors of Sri Lankan society. As the curtains closed on The Future of Possible, attendees departed with a newfound appreciation for DJIs pioneering technologies and their transformative impact on various industries in Sri Lanka. The event marked a pivotal moment in the countrys technological journey, heralding a future brimming with possibilities.
Meghalaya violence: Amid petrol bomb attacks, government vehicle set on fire
SHILLONG: Violence in Meghalaya continues unabated as the state grapples with a series of petrol bomb attacks and vehicles being set ablaze. The most recent incident occurred late on Thursday (May 02) night when a vehicle, belonging to the Meghalaya directorate of water resources, was set on fire at Cleve colony in Shillong. Suspected to [] The post Meghalaya violence: Amid petrol bomb attacks, government vehicle set on fire appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .
Remote coastal homes for sale in Great Britain in pictures
From a cottage built into sand dunes with its own stargazing room to an eco cabin-style home in a walkers paradise Continue reading...
A trail of two cities: an alternative guide to Salford and Manchester
Sundays Sounds from the Other City festival is a joyful celebration of Greater Manchesters leftfield culture On the first Sunday of May every year, Chapel Street, where central Manchester and Salford meet, comes alive with DIY art, music and spectacle at the Sounds from the Other City festival. It is a vibrant public celebration of the community spirit and collaborative working which co-director Emma Thompson says sustains much alternative culture in the region. Collaboration is core to what we do, to Greater Manchester as a city, Thompson says. People come together, and it crosses genres and art forms. Sounds from the Other City wouldnt be turning 20 next year if it wasnt for that. The fees we offer arent huge but people really get behind it, do it for the love of it. Continue reading...
A new cold war? World war three? How do we navigate this age of confusion? | Timothy Garton Ash
In history, as in romance, beginnings matter so what we do now will be crucial in shaping the future In these times of planetary polycrisis, we try to get our bearings by looking to the past. Are we perhaps in The New Cold War , as Robin Niblett, the former director of the foreign affairs thinktank Chatham House, proposes in a new book? Is this bringing us towards the brink of a third world war, as the historian Niall Ferguson has argued ? Or, as I have found myself suggesting on occasion, is the world beginning to resemble the late 19th-century Europe of competing empires and great powers writ large? Another way of trying to put our travails into historically comprehensible shape is to label them as an age of , with the words that follow suggesting either a parallel with or a sharp contrast to an earlier age. So the CNN foreign affairs guru Fareed Zakaria suggests in his latest book that we are in a new Age of Revolutions , meaning that we can learn something from the French, Industrial and American revolutions. Or is it rather The Age of the Strongman , as proposed by the Financial Times foreign affairs commentator Gideon Rachman? No, its The Age of Unpeace , says Mark Leonard, the director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, since connectivity causes conflict. Continue reading...
Spring, fertility and an awakening with Spains Las Mayas a photo essay
Since 2014 Spanish photographer Daniel Ochoa de Olza has been portraying the girl participants in a spring festival held in Colmenar Viejo outside Madrid. His portraits bear witness to his fascination with the enduring nature of Spains rituals With obscure origins in pagan customs and dating back to medieval times, the festivities of La Maya offers a strange and colourful spectacle celebrating the arrival of spring. Every year on 2 May the families of girls aged between seven and 11 gather to decide which of them will be chosen to be that years Mayas. Lucia Corrales Alfonso Continue reading...
Northumbrian Water told to publish raw sewage discharge data it tried to hide
Appeal tribunal orders firm to share details on hundreds of thousands of tonnes of outflows into North Sea A water company that tried to keep secret details of hundreds of thousands of tonnes of raw sewage discharges into the sea has been ordered by an appeal tribunal to release the data in the public interest. Northumbrian Water has repeatedly refused to release details about the scale of raw sewage discharges into the North Sea from an outflow at its pumping station in Whitburn, after a campaigner asked under freedom of information and environmental information regulations. Continue reading...
Dark Matter to Hollywood Con Queen: the seven best shows to stream this week
Joel Edgerton leads a freaky, scary existential thriller about an abduction, and a wild new tale from the makers of Fyre and Tiger King We meet physicist Jason Dessen ( Joel Edgerton ) teaching students the theory of Schrdingers Cat: can two states of existence run concurrently? If so, can either of them be said to be real? In this moody adaptation of Blake Crouchs sci-fi novel (by the author himself), Dessen is about to experience a brush with quantum mechanics. He visits a bar to celebrate a friend winning a prestigious science award. On his way home, he is abducted. He loses his phone, his wedding ring, even his clothes. What unfolds is a freaky, scary journey through multiple versions of himself as Dessen tries to find his way back to a reality he recognises. Labyrinthine but gripping. Apple TV+, from Wednesday 8 May Continue reading...
Exclusive Emirates & Bulgari summer season amenity kits now onboard
Now onboard, Emirates is offering First and Business Class customers a new collection of exclusive Bulgari amenity kits for the summer season. With a gradual introduction on select routes and long-haul flights, the new range features colour palettes designed to reflect Emirates newly upgraded aircraft cabin interiors, alongside the latest best-selling fragrances from globally recognised luxury Italian brand, Bulgari. As part of Emirates commitment to provide exceptional customer experiences onboard, the new range features a selection of 8 collectible bags across First and Business Class in a range of colours and fabrics, with an array of travel-friendly amenities inside. Customers can look forward to Bulgari fragrances, including the High-Perfumery Collection Le Gemme offered in designs created exclusively for Emirates, a keepsake gold-lacquered Bulgari mirror, plenty of self-care travel treats, and new additions of foam ear plugs and soft elastic hair ties. New First Class Amenity Kits In First Class, the luxurious range for men features 2 individual collectible bags, containing an array of amenities to ensure Emirates customers fly better . There are two shapes available, a classic toiletry bag and an elegant handheld pouch, both in chestnut brown synthetic leather with forest green accents and cream trim. Inside is a newly developed 30ml exclusive bottle of BVLGARI LE GEMMEKOBRAA Eau de Parfum. Inspired by the enigmatic Snake Jasper stone, a symbol of powerful regeneration and life force, the scent is built around one of the most sacred raw materials black incense. Developed by master perfumer Jacques Cavallier, it maintains the clean, fresh facets of white incense while adding powerful smoky notes. The kit also features other Bulgari products such as an aftershave balm, a body emulsion, a cleansing towel, and a lip balm, presented to customers into a Bulgari drawstring pouch. The kit also includes a Gillette razor, shaving foam, a dental kit, a deodorant, tissues, earplugs, and a foldaway hairbrush. The feminine offer in First Class encompasses two metallic champagne-bronze coloured kit bags to collect, featuring turquoise trim, accents, and lining. One collectible bag is shaped like a vanity case and the other like a clutch. Inside the amenity kits is a newly developed 30ml exclusive bottle of BVLGARI LE GEMME OROM Eau de Parfum. This exceptional fragrance was crafted by master perfumer Sophie Labb to reflect the dual gender of the exquisite vanilla, the second most expensive spice worldwide. BVLGARI LE GEMME OROM exudes an intense amber woody fragrance featuring one of the finest bourbon vanilla absolute and precious natural oud wood. The kit also features an engraved gold-lacquered Bulgari mirror a keepsake pieceexclusively crafted for Emirates encased in a soft Bulgari pouch, alongside other Bulgari products such as a face emulsion, a body emulsion, a cleansing towel, and a lip balm. Ensuring First Class passengers arrive to their destination fully refreshed, the kit also includes earplugs, a dental kit, a deodorant, tissues, a foldaway hairbrush, and a new soft black elastic hair tie. New Business Class Amenity Kits Featuring a stylish soft cream shade with pops of coral, the Business Class range offers two bag shapes for women, a pouch and classic toiletry bag silhouette, both made from synthetic leather. The amenity kitsfeature the iconic fragrance BVLGARI OMNIA CORAL Eau de Toilette . Inspired by the solar vitality of red coral, master perfumer Alberto Morillas crafted Omnia Coral to open with the brightness of bergamot essence and goji berries accord, with the soft nuances of brightly coloured orange hibiscus notes. The flowery heart notes are graced by the fresh evanescence of water lily accord, and a fruity pomegranate accord mingling with the elegant depth of cedar wood essence.Customers will also receive a complementary Omnia Coral-scented face emulsion and body lotion, alongside a Bulgari lip balm. Other comfort essentials will be offered to customers including a dental kit, earplugs, a double mirror made from wheat straw material, a deodorant, tissues, and a foldaway hairbrush with a new soft black elastic hair tie. The masculine Business Class offering features two contemporary chestnut brown fabric bags with cream faux leather accents, in a handheld style and a classic toiletry bag silhouette.The fragrance included in these kits is BVLGARI MAN IN BLACK Eau de Parfum, the iconic masculine best seller of the brand. Alberto Morillas, master perfumer of this amber spicy olfactive signature, expresses a magnetic fragrance with notes of vibrant spices and a leather accord. Inspired by the same iconic scent, a complementary BVLGARI MAN IN BLACK scented aftershave balm and body lotion are included, alongside a Gillette razor, shaving foam, a dental kit, earplugs, a deodorant, tissues and afoldaway hairbrush made from wheat straw. Emirates has collaborated with the Italian Maison for more than 15 years. The 2024 summer season of Bulgari amenity kits will be the 16 th version offered onboard, offering curated luxury amenity kits to Emirates customers worldwide.
'Fuel for water': Heatwave piles misery on Myanmar displaced
20 dead as bus plunges into ravine in Pakistan's Gilgit-Baltistan
dead as bus plunges into ravine in Pakistans GilgitBaltistan
Labour wins by-election with huge swing as Tories lose councils
The Tories suffer a big defeat at a by-election as Labour gains ground in polls across England.
India election: Rahul to contest from Rae Bareli, a Gandhi family bastion
Ending days of suspense, Indias opposition party Congress today announced that Rahul Gandhi will contest from Rae Bareli Lok Sabha constituency in the most populous state of Uttar Pradesh
20 people killed, 21 others injured after bus falls into ravine in Gilgit-Baltistan
Why did bill to stem foreign influence trigger protests in Georgia over country's media freedom?
TBILISI: Georgia has been engulfed by huge protests triggered by a proposed law that critics see as a threat to media freedom and the countrys aspirations to join the European Union. Here is a look at the bill and the protests it has ignited: WHAT IS THE NEW BILL? The bill would require media and nongovernmental organizations and other nonprofits to register as pursuing the interests of a foreign power if they receive more than 20% of funding from abroad. The legislature approved a second reading of the bill Wednesday, and the third and final reading is expected later this month. The proposed legislation is nearly identical to the one that the governing Georgian Dream party was pressured to withdraw last year after street protests. WHAT DO THE BILL'S SUPPORTERS AND OPPONENTS SAY? The governing party says the bill is necessary to stem what it deems as harmful foreign influence over the countrys political scene and to prevent unidentified foreign actors from trying to destabilize the countrys political scene. The opposition denounces the bill as the Russian law because Moscow uses similar legislation to stigmatize independent news media and organizations critical of the Kremlin. Opponents of the bill say the fact that it is now before parliament is a sign of Moscows purported influence over Georgia. They fear it will become an impediment to the countrys long-sought prospects of joining the European Union. Georgian President Salome Zourabichvili, who is increasingly at odds with the governing party, has vowed to veto the law, but Georgian Dream has a majority sufficient to override a presidential veto. WHAT IS THE STATE OF RUSSIA-GEORGIA TIES? Russia-Georgia relations have been strained and turbulent since the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union. In August 2008, Russia fought a brief war with Georgia, which had made a botched attempt to regain control over the breakaway province of South Ossetia. Moscow then recognized South Ossetia and another separatist province, Abkhazia, as independent states and beefed up its military presence there. Most of the world considers both breakaway regions to be parts of Georgia, a former Soviet republic. Tbilisi has ruptured diplomatic ties with Moscow, and the separatist regions status remains a key irritant, even as Russia-Georgia relations have improved in recent years. The opposition United National Movement accuses Georgian Dream, which was founded by Bidzina Ivanishvili, a billionaire who made his fortune in Russia, of serving Moscows interests an accusation the governing party vehemently denies. HOW DID THE PROTESTS GO? For several successive days, thousands of demonstrators besieged the parliament building in a bid to block the bills passage and scuffled with police. Police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Over 60 protesters have been arrested and several people have been injured. Levan Khabeishvili, chairman of the United National Movement, was among those injured. On Thursday, parliament canceled its scheduled session, saying the move was because of damage to the building during Wednesdays protests. WHAT IS THE EU'S POSITION? EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has described the parliaments move as a very concerning development and warned that final adoption of this legislation would negatively impact Georgias progress on its EU path. This law is not in line with EU core norms and values, Borrell said in a statement last month. The proposed legislation would limit the capacity of civil society and media organizations to operate freely, could limit freedom of expression and unfairly stigmatize organizations that deliver benefits to the citizens of Georgia.
Pro-Palestine Protesters In New Jersey's Rutgers Call Kashmiris An 'Occupied People'
The ninth demand from the students at Rutgers University in New Brunswick called for the display of flags representing occupied peoples on the campus, as per an X post by 'controversial' historian and author Audrey Truschke
Rhod Gilbert high on life after cancer treatment
The comedian says treatment for head and neck cancer has changed the way he lives.
Thunderstorms likely in Ctg, rain in some places in Dhaka, 4 other divs
Heatwave to continue in several districts
Chris Mason: Whopping swing to Labour will alarm Tories
The party is set for one of its worst local election results as Labour wins the Blackpool South by-election.
As China's Xi Jinping visits Europe, Ukraine, trade and investment are likely to top the agenda
Chinese leader Xi Jinping's European tour focuses on Ukraine, trade, and strategic alliances amidst heightened tensions. Starting in Paris, he meets Macron, signaling European autonomy. Visits to Hungary and Serbia, seen as China-friendly, strengthen ties amid criticism of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. US watches closely for geopolitical shifts.
Russia says it downs six Ukraine-launched drones
Five of the drones were downed over the Belgorod region that borders Ukraine and one over the Crimean Peninsula, the defence ministry said on the Telegram messaging app. The ministry did not provide any details on possible damage due to the attack. Reuters could not immediately verify the Russian defence ministry's comments.
Samsung Sri Lanka Secures Top Honor as Home Electronics Category Winner at LMD Awards
Samsung Sri Lanka proudly asserts its victory as the Category Winner in the esteemed Home Electronics category at the LMD Readers Most Loved Brands Awards 2024. This notable accomplishment marks yet another consecutive win for Samsung, firmly establishing its dominance in the industry with its state-of-the-art line of TVs, washing machines and refrigerators. This esteemed accolade reflects the trust and confidence that consumers place in the Samsung brand, as ascertained by LMD, further solidifying its position as a trusted leader in the local home electronics market. The LMD Readers Most Loved Brands Awards, organized by Lanka Monthly Digest (LMD) annually, serve as a reflection of consumer preferences and sentiments across Sri Lanka. Through exhaustive surveys and evaluations, weighing consumer feedback, brand perception, and market performance, these awards serve to recognize and commend excellence across various sectors. As such, Samsung Sri Lankas continuing success in clinching the prestigious LMD Readers Most Loved Brands Award in the Home Electronics category underscores its dedication to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction. By consistently advancing technological frontiers and comprehending the ever-evolving needs of Sri Lankan consumers, Samsung has continually delivered groundbreaking products and services that resonate with audiences nationwide. Surpassing expectations and setting new industry benchmarks, the global electronics giant continues to garner the trust and allegiance of customers locally, firmly establishing itself as the pre-eminent leader in the home electronics sector. Expressing gratitude for this remarkable feat, Mr. SangHwa Song, Managing Director of Samsung Sri Lanka, remarked, At Samsung, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation and setting new standards for excellence. Securing the LMD Readers Most Loved Brands Award in the Home Electronics category is a testament to the dedication of our team and the steadfast support of our loyal customers. We are deeply honored to receive this recognition and remain resolute in delivering cutting-edge technology and unparalleled experiences to consumers across Sri Lanka in the future as well. Samsung Sri Lanka remains committed in its mission to cater to the diverse needs of Sri Lankan consumers by offering world-class products and services. Mr. Sabry Ansar, Director and Head of CE Biz underscored the companys commitment to enhancing accessibility and affordability for all consumers, stating, We are committed to providing the highest-quality products to Sri Lankan consumers and continuously work towards making our innovations more accessible. This includes introducing flexible payment options such as EMI schemes up to 60 months, which allow customers to spread the cost of their purchases over time, making them more affordable, particularly for those in rural areas who may have budget constraints. Additionally, were thrilled to announce extensive consumer promotions featuring discounts and other benefits throughout various seasons, enabling everyone to take advantage of special offers and discounts when purchasing our products. This dedication to innovation and customer satisfaction seamlessly translates into Samsungs recent announcement of a 20-year warranty on refrigerators and washing machines, demonstrating its commitment to product durability and providing consumers with peace of mind for decades to come. By extending the warranty to such an extensive duration, Samsung Sri Lanka reaffirms its commitment to standing behind the star performance and longevity of its appliances, ensuring consumers can enjoy their appliances without worry for decades. Notably, Samsung Sri Lanka also takes immense pride in being acknowledged as the No.1 TV manufacturer for 18 consecutive years, a testament to its expertise and commitment to excellence in the realm of home entertainment. As a leading provider of cutting-edge technology, Samsung Sri Lanka offers a diverse portfolio of products and services tailored to meet the evolving needs of consumers. With a steadfast commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, Samsung Sri Lanka will continue to redefine technological boundaries and enhance the lives of people across the nation.
Image of driver killed in miners' strike revealed
A photo of a cabbie killed during the bitter dispute 40 years ago is revealed for the first time.
Hundreds charged in error for child leisure cards
The discount cards were supposed to be offered free of charge for 16 leisure centres across Belfast.
Meryl Streep to be honoured with Palme dOr at Cannes Film Festival
Veteran Hollywood artiste Meryl Streep is going to be honoured with the prestigious honorary Palme dOr at the opening ceremony of the 77th Cannes Film Festival. Meryl will also serve as the guest of honour for this years ceremony which will take place on the stage of the Grand Theatre Lumiere on May 14.
BJP trying to create a 'monolithic idea of India', says Shashi Tharoor
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Thursday slammed the BJP for trying to create a 'monolithic idea of India', rather than protecting (the idea of) India as written in the Constitution.
In a bid to harness the potential of Sri Lankas IT/BPM talent and explore the vast opportunities the country has to offer, SLASSCOM recently conducted an orientation program for newly appointed Sri Lankan Ambassadors and High Commissioners designated for overseas missions. Organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the session aimed to equip the diplomats with insights into the countrys tech prowess and its potential to attract foreign investments while facilitating market access for local companies. Mr. Nishan Mendis, Vice Chairman of SLASSCOM and Consulting Leader at Deloitte Sri Lanka and Maldives, spearheaded the session alongside other notable figures such as Shehan Selvanayagam, Managing Director of Loops Digital, Anuradha Gajanayaka, CEO of Bistec Global, Ms. Chamind de Silva, Executive Director of SLASSCOM, and Mrs. Lakshmi Jaliyagodage, Senior Program Manager Forums at SLASSCOM. The program provided a platform for the diplomats to gain comprehensive insights into the countrys IT/BPM landscape, enabling them to effectively promote foreign investments and foster strategic partnerships with global stakeholders. By understanding the nuances of Sri Lankas tech ecosystem, the ambassadors and high commissioners can serve as ambassadors of the countrys innovation and drive initiatives to enhance bilateral cooperation in the digital domain. The orientation session was tailored to meet the specific needs of the newly appointed diplomats, including Mr. U.L.M. Jauhar, who is slated to assume the role of High Commissioner to Canada, Mr. O.L. Ameerjawad, designated as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mr. M.J.P. Jayesinghe, set to be the Ambassador to the Peoples Republic of China, Ms. T.P. Dharmasena, designated Ambassador to the Republic of Poland, Mr. K.T. Fonseka, appointed as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Sweden, Ms. T.R.N. Gunasekara, set to serve as Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ms. E.A.S.W. Edirisinghe, designated as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Thailand, Mr. W.A.U.P. Perera, appointed as Ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Ms. P.A.P. Ponnamperuma, designated as Ambassador to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, and Mr. P.R.S. Goonawardene, who will take on the role of High Commissioner to the Republic of Maldives. By empowering these diplomats with a deep understanding of Sri Lankas tech capabilities, SLASSCOM aims to facilitate their efforts in promoting the countrys interests on the global stage, paving the way for enhanced collaboration and economic growth and helping Sri Lanka to position itself as a hub of innovation and a desirable destination for foreign investment.
A boat tragedy that rocked a community
Nine men died when the boat Quiet Waters sank in 1954, leaving their families devastated.
TV tonight: Boy George spills all about his life to John Wilson
The musician is an open book in a revealing interview. Plus: a dead cat gets in the way of a breakup in Avoidance. Heres what to watch this evening 11pm, BBC Four Continue reading...
My house is worthless because of RAAC concrete
Many of Scotland's former council houses contain RAAC concrete but their owners are struggling to get help.
Mizoram: Increase in illicit liquor production in Aizawl linked to Myanmar refugee influx
AIZAWL: Manufacturing of illicit country-made liquor in and around Aizawl the capital of Mizoram has considerably increased following the influx of refugees from neighbouring Myanmar. Mizoram excise and narcotics department commissioner, Z Lalhmangaiha, informed a meeting of excise officials and leaders of Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) on Thursday that manufacturing of locally [] The post Mizoram: Increase in illicit liquor production in Aizawl linked to Myanmar refugee influx appeared first on NORTHEAST NOW .
Lok Sabha Elections: Rahul Gandhi to contest from Raebareli; K.L. Sharma in Amethi
Ending days of suspense, the Congress has finally announced that Rahul Gandhi will contest from the Raebareli Lok Sabha constituency
Americans' freedom of expression is 'constitutionally protected' for a very good reason, US whistleblower Edward Snowden in response to X owner Elon Musk's poll about American flag
Who is KL Sharma, Congress candidate to contest against BJP's Smriti Irani from Amethi?
Kishori Lal Sharma is a trusted associate of the Gandhi family, having served as Sonia Gandhi's representative in Raebareli.
White House clarifies Biden's 'xenophobic' remark on allies: 'He respects them'
White House clarifies Bidens xenophobic remark on allies He respects them
Post Offices expert gave false evidence to court
Expert suggested bug fix which would alter data without branch knowing, but told court that was impossible.
BYDs big plans to move beyond cars and batteries
The Offset is Tech in Asias free newsletter that breaks down the biggest stories and trends in greentech.
Cool solution: how ice-cream saved drought-hit farmers in India
As the climate crisis forces people to abandon their land in Rajasthan, a new industry has sprung up in the desert state, with thousands of gaily decorated vans setting off to sell ice-cream across the country The parched villages of Gangapur in the desert state of Rajasthan have a new season in their calendar. Between November and February , car workshops along the towns dusty mile-long market open before sunrise, cylindrical stainless-steel food containers are put on display, and traders stock up on chocolate and strawberry syrups. Come March, the villagers start preparing to migrate. In the workshops, thousands of vehicles are converted into vans for selling a variety of ice-cream, from plain condensed milk flavoured with cardamom to chocolate, vanilla and pistachio, while local farmers turned dessert makers have their old mini-trucks serviced in readiness for the drive to distant towns and cities, where they will sell the sweet treat for the next nine months. Continue reading...
