Britain's treasury chief Rachel Reeves will visit China to discuss reviving the China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, suspended since 2019. The visit aims to improve economic ties despite tensions over espionage allegations, Hong Kong's civil liberties, and China's stance on Ukraine. Key financial industry leaders will accompany the delegation.
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Senior Taliban representatives visited Tokyo for talks aimed at helping Afghanistan build a more inclusive political system and protect human rights. This marks their first diplomatic trip outside Central Asia and the Middle East since taking control of Afghanistan in 2021. The talks, organized by Nippon Zaidan, align with Japan's efforts to encourage the Taliban to adopt policies that protect human rights, despite not officially recognizing them as Afghanistan's government.
This heightened scrutiny has particularly affected Indian Green Card holders, especially elderly individuals who spend extended periods in India during the winter months. Reports indicate that US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers have been pressuring these individuals at airports to sign Form I-407, which voluntarily relinquishes their permanent residency. Those who resist have allegedly faced threats of detention or deportation.
Saturday Night Live satirized the arrest of Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, highlighting his unexpected online popularity. The sketch explored public frustration with the US healthcare system, referencing Mangione's manifesto and the ensuing social media discussions about insurance woes. UnitedHealth Group CEO acknowledged the system's flaws amidst the controversy.
As the U.S. transitions to a new administration, Biden's final Christmas message emphasized unity and reflection, urging Americans to care for one another. Conversely, Trump shared a festive greeting coupled with politically charged posts. The stark contrast reflects the ongoing political divide as Biden leaves office and Trump prepares to return, pledging significant changes.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order to make in-vitro fertilization (IVF) free for those facing infertility. The order instructs the Domestic Policy Council to recommend policies to reduce IVF costs within 90 days. Trump had pledged free IVF during his campaign, aiming to support families in their journey to parenthood.
A Los Angeles family clarified that their Tesla Cybertruck's license plate, LOLOCT7, was not meant to mock the October 7 Hamas attack but was a tribute to their grandfather. "LOLO" means grandfather in Tagalog, "CT" represents Cyber Truck, and "7" signifies their seven grandchildren, a family member explained and said they would anyway get it changed.
Saudi Arabia will host leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Qatar, and the UAE on February 20 to discuss President Trump's controversial proposal for a US takeover of Gaza. Palestinian Authority President Mahmud Abbas is also expected to attend, amidst widespread outrage across the Arab world over the suggested mass relocation of Palestinians.
An off-duty NYPD officer, Samuel Sierra, has been arrested on charges of first-degree rape, second-degree strangulation, and third-degree assault of a family member. Sierra, suspended without pay, has faced previous allegations of misconduct. The case underscores concerns about police accountability and conduct.
Doug Ford secured a rare third term as Premier of Ontario, with his Progressive Conservative Party winning decisively in the provincial election. Ford's campaign focused on opposing US President Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on Canadian goods, highlighting the significant impact on Ontario's economy.
Prince Andrew is reportedly anxious about visiting the US amid renewed demands for an Epstein-related investigation. His fears of potential arrest or civil action have limited his travel, except to Bahrain. Andrew's links to Epstein remain under scrutiny, with calls for further questioning.