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Senator Mitt Romney , a Utah Republican and a vocal critic of Donald Trump , praised the president-elect's second nomination for U.S. attorney general on Friday. Romney, the sole Republican senator to vote twice to impeach Trump during his first presidency, congratulated Pam Bondi in a Friday post on X, formerly Twitter , calling her a "highly capable leader" for the Department of Justice (DOJ). "She served with excellence as Florida's Attorney General," the senator said. The announcement of Bondi, who served as Florida's attorney general from 2011 to 2019, as the next U.S. attorney general came hours after former Representative Matt Gaetz , a Florida Republican, announced he was withdrawing his name from consideration for the post on Thursday. Both picks are from Florida where Trump now calls home after leaving New York. Bondi is a longtime Trump ally, having served as one of his defense attorneys during his first impeachment trial. The Senate later acquitted Trump of charges accusing him of soliciting foreign interference in the 2020 election by withholding military aid from Ukraine to pressure the country into investigating Trump's political opponent, President Joe Biden . The president-elect announced Gaetz to lead the DOJ last week, and since then has drawn scrutiny from Democrats and some Republicans . Up until last Wednesday, Gaetz represented Florida's 1st Congressional District in the U.S. House, but upon his attorney general nomination, he resigned from his position. Gaetz's nomination raised eyebrows as he was the subject of a House Ethics Committee investigation over allegations that he "engaged in sexual misconduct and illicit drug use" and was part of a scheme that led to the sex trafficking of a 17-year-old girl. He has denied any wrongdoing. On Thursday, Gaetz wrote on X that he had met with senators and "while the momentum was strong, it is clear that my confirmation was unfairly becoming a distraction to the critical work of the Trump/Vance Transition." Gaetz required Senate confirmation to be put in the post. Trump posted on Truth Social, his social media platform, that he appreciated "the recent efforts of Matt Gaetz." Bondi's relationship with Romney dates back to at least 2012 when she endorsed his presidential campaign. She also spoke at the 2012 Republican National Convention (RNC) in support of him when he was the GOP's presidential nominee. Trump endorsed Romney's 2012 presidential run, but Romney lost to incumbent President Barack Obama . Newsweek contacted Romney's press team for comment via email on Friday evening. Newsweek has reached out to Bondi for comment through the America First Policy Institute. Romney has broken with the Republican Party several times, most notably during Trump's impeachments. In October, he told students at the University of Utah, "I've made it very clear that I don't want Donald Trump to be the next President of the United States," according to The Salt Lake Tribune . Romney did not endorse the Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris . Later at the same event, Romney warned of disinformation, both from external parties and from Trump. "He just makes it up, and he is able to spew enough disinformation that the Chinese must be smiling," Romney said in reference to various Trump claims on the campaign trail including the unsubstantiated claim that Haitian migrants were eating pets in Springfield, Ohio .Syria latest: Russian state news agencies report Assad has arrived in Moscow and been granted asylum
New Delhi, Nov 23 (IANS): Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Saturday described the MVA’s drubbing in Maharashtra as “unexpected” and assured supporters that the party would undertake a serious analysis of the adverse outcome. Taking to social media platform X, Gandhi wrote in Hindi, “Maharashtra results are unexpected and we would conduct a detailed analysis.” Interestingly, the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha had expressed similar surprise over the party’s loss in Haryana last month and used the word “unexpected” for the result in the agrarian state as well. Looking to lift the morale of party workers, Gandhi highlighted the INDIA Bloc’s victory in Jharkhand and thanked the voters for their whole-hearted support. “Congratulations to Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Congress and JMM workers for this victory,” wrote Gandhi in Hindi. He went on to claim that the INDIA Bloc’s victory in Jharkhand reflected the triumph of efforts to protect the Constitution and water, forest and land. He also thanked party workers in Maharashtra for their efforts. The Congress could manage just about 15 seats in Maharashtra while the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) secured about 48 seats in the 288-member Assembly. On voting day on November 20, Gandhi appealed to voters of Maharashtra by posting on X: “Brothers and sisters of Maharashtra, I appeal to all of you to vote today for the protection of the state's dignity and the Constitution. Every vote you cast for the Maha Vikas Aghadi will prevent the theft of your jobs and projects, ensure fair prices for farmers' crops, and bring prosperity to your lives through the 5 guarantees.” The results on Saturday came as a blow for both the Congress and Gandhi. There is no denying that Gandhi’s campaign which focused heavily on caste-based rhetoric and Constitutional assurances also came a cropper. One of the key takeaways from this defeat is, many argue, an abject failure of Rahul Gandhi's agenda of the caste census. His promise of breaching the 50 per cent reservation cap has also not worked. The caste calculus that he pushed during the campaign did not win voters’ approval in Maharashtra, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emphasis on caste unity, encapsulated in the slogan "Ek hain to safe hain," proved more effective. Gandhi’s freebies offer also did not elicit any positive response from the public.
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Uruguay's voters choose their next president in a close runoff with low stakes but much suspense MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans on Sunday voted in the second round of the country's presidential election , with the conservative governing party and a left-leaning coalition locked in a close runoff following level-headed campaigns widely see Nayara Batschke, The Associated Press Nov 24, 2024 3:50 PM Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message Claudia Noble stands outside the Broad Front's (Frente Amplio) election night headquarters after polls closed for the presidential run-off election in Montevideo, Uruguay, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2024. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko) MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (AP) — Uruguayans on Sunday voted in the second round of the country's presidential election , with the conservative governing party and a left-leaning coalition locked in a close runoff following level-headed campaigns widely seen as emblematic of the country's strong democracy. As polls closed Sunday evening, turnout stood at 89.4% — around the same as during the first round last month in which the two moderate coalitions both failed to win an outright majority. Voting in Uruguay is compulsory. Depending on how tight the vote turns out to be, electoral officials may not call the race for days — as happened in the contentious 2019 runoff that brought center-right President Luis Lacalle Pou to office and ended 15 years of rule by Uruguay’s left-leaning Broad Front by a razor-thin margin. Álvaro Delgado, the incumbent party’s candidate who won nearly 27% in the first round of voting on Oct. 27, has campaigned under the slogan “re-elect a good government." Other conservative parties that make up the government coalition — in particular, the Colorado Party that came in third place last month — notched 20% of the vote collectively, enough to give Delgado an edge over his challenger. Yamandú Orsi from the Broad Front, who took 44% of the vote in the general election, is promising to forge a “new left” in Uruguay that draws on the memory of stability and economic growth under his Broad Front coalition, which presided over pioneering social reforms that won widespread international acclaim from 2005-2020, including the legalization of abortion, same-sex marriage and sale of marijuana . With inflation easing and the economy expected to expand by some 3.2% this year, according to the International Monetary Fund, surveys show that Uruguayans remain largely satisfied with the administration of Lacalle Pou, who constitutionally cannot run for a second consecutive term. But persistent complaints about sluggish growth, stagnant wages and an upsurge in violent crime could just as easily add the small South American nation to a long list of places this year where frustrated voters have punished incumbents in elections around the world. With most polls showing a virtual tie between Delgado and Orsi, analysts say the vote may hinge on a small group of undecided voters — roughly 10% of registered voters in the nation of 3.4 million people. “Neither candidate convinced me and I feel that there are many in my same situation,” said Vanesa Gelezoglo, 31, in the capital, Montevideo, adding she would make up her mind at “the last minute.” Analysts say the candidates’ lackluster campaigns and broad consensus on key issues have generated extraordinary indecision and apathy in an election dominated by discussions about social spending and concerns over income inequality but largely free of the anti-establishment rage that has vaulted populist outsiders to power in neighboring Argentina and the United States. “The question of whether Frente Amplio (the Broad Front) raises taxes is not an existential question, unlike what we saw in the U.S. with Trump and Kamala framing each other as threats to democracy," said Nicolás Saldías, a Latin America and Caribbean senior analyst for the London-based Economist Intelligence Unit. “That doesn't exist in Uruguay.” Both candidates are also appealing to voter angst over the current government's struggle to stem the rise in violent crime that has shaken a nation long regarded as one of the region’s safest, with Delgado promising tough-on-crime policies and Orsi advocating a more community-oriented approach. Delgado, 55, a rural veterinarian with a long career in the National Party, served most recently as Secretary of the Presidency for Lacalle Pou and promises to pursue his predecessor’s pro-business policies. He would continue pushing for a trade deal with China that has raised hackles in Mercosur, an alliance of South American countries promoting regional commerce. "We have to give the government coalition a chance to consolidate its proposals,” said Ramiro Pérez, a street vendor voting for Delgado on Sunday. Orsi, 57, a former history teacher and two-time mayor from a working-class background, is widely seen as the political heir to former President José “Pepe” Mujica , an ex-Marxist guerilla who became a global icon for helping transform Uruguay into one of the region's most socially liberal and environmentally sustainable nations. “He's my candidate, not only for my sake but also for my children's,” Yeny Varone, a nurse at a polling station, said of Orsi. “In the future they'll have better working conditions, health and salaries.” Mujica, now 89 and recovering from esophageal cancer , turned up at his local polling station before balloting even began, praising Orsi's humility and Uruguay’s famous stability. “This is no small feat,” he said of Uruguay's “citizenry that respects formal institutions.” Orsi planned no dramatic changes, and, despite his call for a revitalized left-wing, his platform continues the Broad Front's traditional mix of market-friendly policies and welfare programs. He proposes tax incentives to lure investment and social security reforms that would lower the retirement age but fall short of a radical overhaul sought by Uruguay's unions. The contentious plebiscite on whether to boost pension payouts failed to pass in October, with Uruguayans rejecting generous pensions in favor of fiscal constraint. Both candidates pledged full cooperation with each other if elected. “I want (Orsi) to know that my idea is to form a government of national unity,” Delgado told reporters after casting his vote in the capital's upscale Pocitos neighborhood. He said that if he won, he and Orsi would chat on Monday over some yerba mate, the traditional herbal drink beloved by Uruguayans. Orsi described Sunday's democratic exercise as “an incredible experience" as he voted in Canelones, the sprawling town of beaches and cattle ranches just north of Montevideo where he served as mayor for a decade. “The essence of politics is agreements,” he said. “You never end up completely satisfied.” ___ Associated Press writer Isabel DeBre in Villa Tunari, Bolivia, contributed to this report. Nayara Batschke, The Associated Press See a typo/mistake? Have a story/tip? This has been shared 0 times 0 Shares Share by Email Share on Facebook Share on X Share on LinkedIn Print Share via Text Message More World News Jannik Sinner leads Italy past the Netherlands for its second consecutive Davis Cup title Nov 24, 2024 10:40 AM Poland's conservative opposition party taps historian as candidate for 2025 presidential run Nov 24, 2024 7:42 AM Israel says rabbi who went missing in the UAE was killed Nov 24, 2024 12:06 AM Featured FlyerWire Cutting Machine Market Size and Growth Potential 2031 by Top Key Players Included are Aristech, Barsanti Macchine, Benign Enterprise, Breton - Natural & Compound Stone Division, etc 11-23-2024 11:38 AM CET | Advertising, Media Consulting, Marketing Research Press release from: Verified Market Reports Wire Cutting Machine Market USA, New Jersey: According to Verified Market Reports analysis, the global Wire Cutting Machine Market size was valued at USD 3.1 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.5 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecasted period 2024 to 2031. What is the current outlook of the Wire Cutting Machine Market? The Wire Cutting Machine Market is experiencing steady growth, driven by advancements in automation and precision engineering. As industries like automotive, electronics, and manufacturing demand high-quality wire processing, the market is benefiting from increased investments in manufacturing capabilities and technological innovations. The shift toward digitalization and the adoption of Industry 4.0 are key drivers, as wire cutting machines become integral to modern production lines. Asia-Pacific remains the largest market due to the significant manufacturing hubs in China and India. Moreover, increasing automation in wire-based component manufacturing is expected to further fuel demand for wire cutting machines. The market is projected to continue expanding due to these technological advancements, increasing application areas, and growing focus on efficiency and cost reduction in industries that rely on precision wire cutting. Get the full PDF sample copy of the report: (Includes full table of contents, list of tables and figures, and graphs) @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/download-sample/?rid=755768&utm_source=OpenPR&utm_medium=366 What are the key investment trends in the Wire Cutting Machine Market? Investors are focusing on companies that integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into wire cutting machines, as these technologies enable greater precision and automation. Additionally, the rise in demand for compact and cost-effective machines with higher production efficiency is attracting investments in R&D. With the global push for sustainability, there is also growing interest in eco-friendly, energy-efficient machines. Investment is particularly strong in the Asia-Pacific region, where manufacturing growth is rapid. Venture capital is backing innovative startups in wire cutting automation, while established players are investing in expanding their production lines to meet growing demand. Furthermore, strategic mergers and acquisitions in the market signal the consolidation of capabilities to cater to a broader customer base, thereby improving market penetration and operational efficiency. What are the growth opportunities for investors in the Wire Cutting Machine Market? Investors can tap into several promising opportunities in the Wire Cutting Machine Market. First, there is significant potential in the automation and robotics sectors, where wire cutting machines integrated with robotic arms and AI-driven systems are in high demand. This technology offers superior precision, reduced operational costs, and enhanced productivity. Another opportunity lies in expanding into emerging markets, especially in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, where manufacturing industries are rapidly evolving. Lastly, as industries move toward customization and the production of more intricate components, advanced, multi-functional wire cutting machines with higher customization potential offer lucrative opportunities for innovation-driven investments. Sustainability-focused products also present growth avenues, as regulatory pressures on energy consumption and waste reduction continue to rise globally. Major companies Aristech, Barsanti Macchine, Benign Enterprise, Breton - Natural & Compound Stone Division, Hangzhou Fangyuan Plastics Machinery, Hema, KINDUS, Knauf PFT GmbH & Co. KG, Mactech Europe, Nuova Idropress, Pellegrini, Shanghai Zhongji Machinery, Takatori Trends Global Market Expansion: As markets continue to globalize, numerous enterprises in the Wire Cutting Machine sector are actively exploring opportunities in emerging markets. Leveraging their expertise and resources, these companies are strategically expanding their footprint and reaching out to new customer segments, thereby capitalizing on evolving market dynamics. Sustainable Practices: There's a noticeable surge in prioritizing sustainability within the market, spurred by both consumer preferences and regulatory mandates. This shift is manifesting in heightened adoption of eco-friendly materials, implementation of energy-efficient processes, and proactive initiatives aimed at waste reduction. Digital Transformation: The Wire Cutting Machine market is swiftly embracing digital transformation, incorporating cutting-edge technologies like AI, IoT, and blockchain. This transition is significantly enhancing operational efficiency, fostering product innovation, and elevating customer experiences through personalization. Health and Wellness: Consumers are placing a growing emphasis on health and wellness, catalyzing the introduction of functional and nutritious products in the Wire Cutting Machine market. Additionally, there's a notable trend towards integrating health-focused attributes into existing offerings to meet evolving consumer expectations. Key Segments Are Covered in Report Wire Cutting Machine Market By Type Fully Automatic Wire Cutting Machine Semi-Automatic Wire Cutting Machine CNC Wire Cutting Machine Wire Cutting Machine Market By Application Automobile Industry Shipping Industry Equipment Manufacturing Industry Other Get a Discount On The Purchase Of This Report @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=755768&utm_source=OpenPR&utm_medium=366 Barriers to Entry Strong Brand Loyalty: Established brands enjoy strong customer loyalty and trust, making it difficult for new entrants to capture market share without substantial investment in brand building and marketing campaigns. Economies of Scale: Existing players benefit from economies of scale, which enable them to lower production costs per unit and offer competitive pricing, posing a barrier for new entrants to achieve similar cost efficiencies. High Capital Requirements: Entry into Wire Cutting Machine Market requires substantial initial investment in manufacturing facilities, distribution networks, and marketing, making it challenging for new entrants to compete effectively. Regulatory Hurdles: Compliance with Wire Cutting Machine industry regulations and standards adds complexity and cost to market entry, especially for startups or smaller firms lacking resources to navigate regulatory requirements effectively. Regional Analysis North America (USA and Canada) Europe (UK, Germany, France and rest of Europe) Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, and Rest of Asia Pacific) Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and Rest of Latin America) Middle East and Africa (GCC and Rest of the Middle East and Africa) The report offers analysis on the following aspects: (1) Market Penetration: Comprehensive information on the product portfolios of the top players in the Wire Cutting Machine Market. (2) Product Development/Innovation: Detailed insights on the upcoming technologies, R&D activities, and product launches in the Wire Cutting Machine market. (3) Competitive Assessment: In-depth assessment of the market strategies, geographic and business segments of the leading players in the market. (4) Market Development: Comprehensive information about emerging markets. This report analyzes the market for various segments across geographies. (5) Market Diversification: Exhaustive information about new products, untapped geographies, recent developments, and investments in the Wire Cutting Machine Market. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 1. What are the present scale and future growth prospects of the Wire Cutting Machine Market? Answer: The Wire Cutting Machine Market was valued at USD 3.1 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 5.5 Billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecasted period 2024 to 2031. 2. What is the current state of the Wire Cutting Machine market? Answer: As of the latest data, the Wire Cutting Machine market is experiencing growth, stability, and challenges. 3. Who are the key players in the Wire Cutting Machine market? Answer: Aristech, Barsanti Macchine, Benign Enterprise, Breton - Natural & Compound Stone Division, Hangzhou Fangyuan Plastics Machinery, Hema, KINDUS, Knauf PFT GmbH & Co. KG, Mactech Europe, Nuova Idropress, Pellegrini, Shanghai Zhongji Machinery, Takatori are the Prominent players in the Wire Cutting Machine market, known for their notable characteristics and strengths. 4. What factors are driving the growth of the Wire Cutting Machine market? Answer: The growth of the Wire Cutting Machine market can be attributed to factors such as key drivers technological advancements, increasing demand, and regulatory support. 5. Are there any challenges affecting the Wire Cutting Machine market? Answer: The Wire Cutting Machine market's challenges include competition, regulatory hurdles, and economic factors. For More Information or Query, Visit @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/product/wire-cutting-machine-market/ Inquiry: Mr. Edwin Fernandez Verified Market Reports USA: +1 650 781 4080 APAC: +61 485 860 968 EMEA: +44 788 886 6344 Website:- https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/ About us: Verified Market Reports Verified Market Reports is a leading global research and consulting firm with over 10 years of experience providing advanced analytical research solutions, tailored consulting and in-depth data analysis to individuals and companies seeking accurate, reliable and timely research. Data and technology consulting. It provides insights into strategic and growth analysis, the data you need to achieve business goals, and helps you make key revenue decisions. Our research works as partners to provide our clients with accurate and valuable information to help them make better data-driven decisions, understand market forecasts, capitalize on future opportunities and help optimize efficiency. The industries we cover span a wide range of industries including technology, chemicals, manufacturing, energy, food and beverage, automotive, robotics, packaging, construction, mining and gas. etc. Verified market reports help you understand comprehensive market indicator factors as well as current and future market trends. Our analysts have extensive expertise in data collection and management, using industry methodologies to collect and examine data at every step. They are trained to combine the latest data collection techniques, superior research methodologies, specialized knowledge, and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research results. Having served over 5,000 clients, we provide trusted market research services to over 100 global Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, Dell, IBM, Shell, Exxon Mobil, General Electric, Siemens, Microsoft, Sony and Hitachi. We provided it. We work with some of the world's leading consulting firms, including McKinsey & Company, Boston Consulting Group and Bain & Company, delivering customized research and consulting projects for companies around the world. This release was published on openPR.NoneS&P 500 Gains and Losses Today: Supermicro Stock Rallies To Finish Strong Week - Investopedia
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On the sidelines of the just concluded African Investment Forum in Rabat, Morocco, The New Times’ Alice Kagina caught up with Clare Akamanzi, CEO of NBA Africa, to discuss about the need for perspective shift, economic potential of sports, and returns on investment in the sector. Below are excerpts. You are almost one year in at NBA Africa, how has it been? It's been a learning curve. Obviously, having come from RDB (Rwanda Development Board) was like a comfort zone since I had spent many years there. I have learnt a lot being at NBA Africa. I knew so much about BAL (Basketball Africa League) because of the partnerships we have in Rwanda but from the inside, I had so much to learn and extremely exciting and I am very energized now that I see and understand much better about how we can actually use sports to transform Africa. I see its possibility. I see it every single day, and I really can't wait to see Africans benefitting from sports and entertainment because this is the future. It’s been one year of learning, but one year of immense appreciation of how crucial sports is for the economy. What is the current landscape of investor interest in the sports sector in Africa? First of all, we are seeing sports as one of the fastest-growing sectors on the continent. In fact, the sports industry is projected to grow by 8 per cent over the next few years, significantly outpacing the continent's average GDP growth. This means there is a lot of opportunity for growth for those who invest in the sports sector. Since NBA investment in Africa, we have [opened] offices in five countries, namely South Africa, Kenya, Senegal, Nigeria and Egypt. We are investing because we see there is an opportunity not only commercially but also to transform the economies of Africa using sports. We've also invested in a new league that has done four seasons already. We're now going to the fifth season of the BAL. And we've seen it grow. When we started four years ago, it was during COVID. From the first season of Basketball Africa League which took place in a bubble because of the Covid-19 pandemic, the second season in BK Arena had 45,000 people that came to watch the game and the following year, we had 70,000 people, last season, we had about 120,000 people coming to watch the games in-person. The same increase is noticed on our digital platforms; we have about one billion engagements throughout all our social media platforms. The growth is real in terms of BAL but the impact is beyond. If you look at Rwanda, 15 per cent of the revenues from tourism is coming from events, and sports events are a critical part of them contributing directly to bringing millions of dollars to the country. We are seeing more and more investors in teams like Tigers in Rwanda and Nairobi City Thunder which became the first Kenyan team to qualify for BAL because of the investments raised that enabled them to get good players. The investment landscape is growing because companies are seeing opportunities to support teams through sponsorship or equity. The likes of Inyange, RSSB, Summa, and others. For me, all of this shows that we are only scratching the surface because the opportunity is really large and NBA is committed to unlock that. In October, you announced the construction of 100 outdoor courts in Kenya. How do you plan to expand these kinds of facilities across the continent? NBA has announced that we'll build 1,000 courts in Africa. 100 of those will be in Kenya, but the rest will be distributed among 11 countries, including Rwanda. This means increase of access to the basketball game with more kids playing, and we have seen African governments having similar initiatives of investing in courts to breed talent in several countries. Once they have that kind of access at a grassroots level, we begin to give them other opportunities such as participating in Basketball Without Boarder camps, where we bring talent, train them, and put out good talents taken to play professionally. We also have an NBA academy in Senegal where the best identified on the continent are taken. This year, we have our first prospect from the academy drafted into the NBA. NBA Africa is an investment valued at $1 billion, how are the financial returns and how do you get to create partnerships? The more games we have, the more seasons we have, the more funds we have, and as our fans increase, it gives us an opportunity to monetize the sport. So, the more fans, the more the sponsorship, because sponsors want to see how many people can watch their products. Same thing with the media where sports make money by selling broadcasting rights to broadcasters to show the game. We see all of that increasing, there is more media, more sponsorship, and more merchandise. For me, sports and basketball in particular is a story of growth and that demonstrates return. Of course, we are not here to make profit very quickly, NBA is very aware that this is a long-term investment and we know we are going to be here for decades. We are not in a hurry to make money because we are not leaving. The important thing is growth. What challenges are sports development efforts facing in Africa? The challenges are there but the good thing is that we see them improving. One of them is how we perceive new sports, with the perception of sports as a recreation or physical education, more of a by-the-way, yet there is huge economic opportunity for people. Many countries rely on tourism for their economies, sports is as important as tourism in terms of how it can transform an economy and the talent that it has. The second one is even though we see more infrastructure coming up, they're not enough. We need an arena in all the major cities of Africa, a world-class arena that can host big games. We need to see more courts in all schools and communities. Additionally, to consume sports, you need infrastructure like affordable internet and access to smart gadgets. For me, those are the things that will allow sports to grow even more. But this also goes with the increase of disposable income as economies continue to grow so that people can also consume sports and entertainment. You participated in the Africa Investment Forum. Are there some projects that NBA Africa is seeking to make investments deals for? No, our deals are constant in terms of investment sports, sponsoring sports, and investing in teams, and this means that all the things that are discussed here, infrastructure, electricity, and energy are relevant to us. All those provide a platform because you can't watch a game without electricity, internet or good infrastructure. That's why we are here to engage with financiers and leaders, and to preach the gospel of sports being a huge economic opportunity. What advice would you give to an entrepreneur or investor looking to venture into sports investments? Take time to understand sports. Take time to see the opportunity, learn from countries that have made sports such a big opportunity and then go into it, invest, get to know the details. Once you do, there's no turning back because sports is only going to grow. Africa is a youthful continent with an average age of 19. The future is here because this is where the consumer of sports is going to be for the next 20 to 30 years. From an NBA Africa perspective, do you see any efforts towards establishing a continental women’s league? We invest a lot in women and we have programmes like BAL4Her and our clinics are 50-50 gender inclusive but for a women’s league, it is something that we will explore down the road, but for the moment, we started with BAL and we need it to grow and be sustained. Any parting shot? We are coming back to Kigali for our conference in May, though not the finals. As usual, we want to see BAL paint the whole city of Kigali red because that's what we do. The city is so lit, and we see BAL as a part of that. Other cities we will be playing in are Morocco, Senegal, and South Africa. Watch the games on apps, and on TV but also come and watch the games in the arena.", "author": { "@type": "Person", "name": "Alice Kagina" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/", "sameAs": ["https://www.facebook.com/TheNewTimesRwanda/","https://twitter.com/NewTimesRwanda","https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuZbZj6DF9zWXpdZVceDZkg"], "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "/theme_newtimes/images/logo.png", "width": 270, "height": 57 } }, "copyrightHolder": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "The New Times", "url": "https://www.newtimes.co.rw/" } }More than a half-century ago, Noam Chomsky's seminal essay, "The Responsibility of Intellectuals," appeared in a Feb. 23, 1967, special issue of The New York Review of Books. That was then, at the height of the controversial war in Vietnam, when the question was who bore responsibility for speaking truth to power, for holding to task those responsible for prosecuting such an undeclared, unpopular and unwinnable war. This is now, today, when We the People are enjoined to raise this question anew, in light of the results of the recent presidential election and in anticipation of those who will soon occupy the corridors of power, presuming to do so on our behalf. The United States is not now at war in any traditional sense of the term; but the country is in an acute state of turmoil and drift, at home and abroad, that is every bit as serious and demanding as anything we have faced in recent memory. The incoming president will have all three ostensibly coequal branches of the federal government in his pocket, staffed with political and personal loyalists who have essentially forsaken their institutional responsibilities for checking and balancing one another in order to secure self-interested presidential favor. It promises to be a heretofore unequaled imperial presidency — unitary executive theory made real, but on steroids. As it was then in 1967, so it is now: The responsibility of "intellectuals" is, at least arguably, to act as the vanguard of republican democracy by filling the institutional void we have inherited, to serve as a mediating mechanism between government and the people, provide voice for the voiceless, think for the unthinking legions among us and perhaps thereby enable the public to live out the true meaning of popular sovereignty through informed civic engagement. Two questions that have forever encumbered treatment of intellectual responsibility remain with us. First, who are we talking about? Who are these privileged, specially endowed... Gregory D. Foster
Special teams miscues prove costly for Bears in overtime loss to VikingsEbstein column: Positive mind should carry you into 2025
Luke McCowan needs Celtic 7 year Champions League itch scratched by doing 'hardest possible thing'Article content Quebec Premier Francois Legault says he met U.S. president-elect Donald Trump in Paris and they discussed border control and a proposed tariff on Canadian goods. Recommended Videos Legault posted a photo on social media of himself shaking hands with Trump during his visit to the French capital for the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral. Trump has promised to impose a punishing 25 per cent tariff on Canada if it doesn’t improve security at the border and stop the flow of migrants and illegal drugs. The meeting came as a number of world leaders were in Paris to celebrate the restoration of the historic cathedral widely considered to be a pinnacle of French architectural heritage. Avec le président élu des États-Unis, Donald Trump, pour discuter du contrôle des frontières canadiennes et des tarifs sur les produits canadiens. pic.twitter.com/OvGRP0yO6Z Legault also crossed paths with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as well as billionaire Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who has been named to lead a government efficiency department in the next Trump administration. Avec Elon Musk pour discuter, entre autres, de commerce international et de véhicules électriques. pic.twitter.com/unFiCsT0Dq The premier says he expressed Quebec’s support for Ukraine to Zelenskyy, and discussed electric vehicles and international trade with Musk. J’ai eu l’occasion de croiser le président de l’Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, pour lui réitérer mon appui et toute la solidarité de la nation québécoise, qui a accueilli des milliers de réfugiés ukrainiens. Le Québec est avec l’Ukraine et le sera jusqu’à la fin de la guerre. pic.twitter.com/v9onc0Nser
"I've always liked the (H1-B) visas, I have always been in favor of the visas, that's why we have them" at Trump-owned facilities, the president-elect told the New York Post in his first public comments on the matter since it flared up this week. An angry back-and-forth, largely between Silicon Valley's Musk and traditional anti-immigration Trump backers, has erupted in fiery fashion, with Musk even vowing to "go to war" over the issue. Trump's insistent calls for sharp curbs on immigration were central to his election victory in November over President Joe Biden. He has vowed to deport all undocumented immigrants and limit legal immigration. But tech entrepreneurs like Tesla's Musk -- as well as Vivek Ramaswamy, who with Musk is to co-chair a government cost-cutting panel under Trump -- say the United States produces too few highly skilled graduates, and they fervently champion the H1-B program. Musk, who himself migrated from South Africa on an H1-B, posted Thursday on his X platform that luring elite engineering talent from abroad was "essential for America to keep winning." Adding acrimony to the debate was a post from Ramaswamy, the son of immigrants from India, who deplored an "American culture" that he said venerates mediocrity, adding that the United States risks having "our asses handed to us by China." That angered several prominent conservatives who were backing Trump long before Musk noisily joined their cause this year, going on to pump more than $250 million into the Republican's campaign. "Looking forward to the inevitable divorce between President Trump and Big Tech," said Laura Loomer, a far-right MAGA figure known for her conspiracy theories, who often flew with Trump on his campaign plane. "We have to protect President Trump from the technocrats." She and others said Trump should be promoting American workers and further limiting immigration. Musk, who had already infuriated some Republicans after leading an online campaign that helped tank a bipartisan budget deal last week, fired back at his critics. Posting on X, the social media site he owns, he warned of a "MAGA civil war." Musk bluntly swore at one critic, adding that "I will go to war on this issue." That, in turn, drew a volley from Trump strategist Steve Bannon, who wrote on the Gettr platform that the H1-B program brings in migrants who are essentially "indentured servants" working for less than American citizens would. In a striking jab at Trump's close friend Musk, Bannon called the Tesla CEO a "toddler." Some of Trump's original backers say they fear he is falling under the sway of big donors from the tech world like Musk and drifting away from his campaign promises. It was not immediately clear whether Trump's remarks might soothe the intraparty strife, which has exposed just how contentious changing the immigration system might be once he takes office in January. bbk/nroAt today’s morning skate, Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet confirmed that goaltender Thatcher Demko will be returning to action as a backup for tonight’s game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. This will be Demko’s first time suiting up for an NHL game since he was sidelined with an injury back in the first round of the 2024 Playoffs against the Nashville Predators. Since his injury, the Canucks have tried several different options in net and found a useful one in the offseason by signing Kevin Lankinen. Lankinen has been exactly what the Canucks have needed in the absence of their starting goalie and has a 12-3-3 record and a spot on Finland’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off . With Demko finally returning, this will bring stability to the Canucks crease and the two goalies could be one of the best tandems in the league. Demko’s Return Is What the Canucks Need Demko’s play in the net is exactly what the Canucks need to climb back up in the standings. The American netminder has been the Canucks’ staple in the crease for almost the past five seasons and was a big reason for their success last regular season. He helped lead the Canucks to a first-place finish in their division and had he not gotten hurt in the first round, maybe the team could have beaten the Edmonton Oilers and gone farther than the second round. He now returns to Vancouver’s lineup with the Canucks in a comfortable position as the third-place team in the Pacific Division and with his goaltending partner Lankinen stealing games for the Canucks. With Demko now returning, the Canucks have a great opportunity to have one of the top goaltending tandems in the NHL. The team’s plan will most likely be to send Arturs Silovs down to the American Hockey League (AHL) so he can play some games with the Abbotsford Canucks and Vancouver will run with Demko and Lankinen as their two goalies. If they play up to their potential, both are starting-calibre goaltenders in the NHL. Lankinen has proven this season that he is far and away the Canucks best goalie when Demko is hurt and Demko has been Vancouver’s starting goalie for the past several years. This tandem could be what pushes the Canucks back into the conversation of Stanley Cup contenders as these two goalies will help them win games and will give them saves that perhaps they were not getting when Demo was out. Perfect Timing This news couldn’t have come at a better time for the Canucks. The team has been treading water for most of the season and hasn’t been able to string together a solid win streak since winning four games in a row back in October. The club hasn’t met that same success since the season started and some of that has been due to their goaltending situation as Silovs has not played as he did during the playoffs last season. With Demko arriving now, the Canucks are primed to start rattling off some wins in consecutive order and get back to being one of the top teams in the Western Conference. The best teams in the modern NHL are the ones that have two goalies who could be starters or at least two that you feel comfortable playing in front of. The best example of this was when the Boston Bruins had Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark as their tandem for the past two seasons. In 2022-23, they both helped the Bruins set the record for most wins in a single season and both goalies were a big reason for it as the players in front of them knew that the person between their goalposts could give them a chance to win. If Lankinen and Demko can be close to as good as those two were, the Canucks are going to shoot up the standings and be a much better team than they have shown so far this season. Demko’s return will be a boost to the Canucks as he is a veteran on the team but it will also help them win more games. If he can work well with Lankinen and become a good tandem with him, Vancouver is primed for another run at the Stanley Cup. This article first appeared on The Hockey Writers and was syndicated with permission.In California's 'earthquake country,' a 7.0 temblor prompts confusion and a tsunami warning
NHL contract grades: Igor Shesterkin's 8-year deal is risky for Rangers, but he's worth itThis year has been an absolute goldmine for gamers. From sprawling open worlds to mind-bending indie gems, 2024 delivered an unforgettable variety of experiences. This article dives deep into the 50 best games that graced our screens, offering a glimpse into what made them truly special and why they deserve a spot on your “must-play” list. A Year of Blockbuster Hits and Hidden Gems 2024 was a year that truly had something for everyone. Long-awaited sequels like Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree and Final Fantasy VII Rebirth finally arrived, pushing the boundaries of their respective franchises with innovative gameplay and captivating narratives. Indie darlings like Thank Goodness You’re Here charmed players with their quirky humor and unique gameplay mechanics. And who could forget the surprise hit Helldivers 2, which brought explosive cooperative action to the forefront? This article explores the diverse landscape of 2024’s gaming scene, highlighting the titles that captivated players and critics alike. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed adventures, thought-provoking narratives, or innovative indie experiences, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest in this comprehensive list. The Top 10 Before we delve into the full list, let’s take a moment to appreciate the cream of the crop. These 10 games represent the pinnacle of gaming achievement in 2024, each offering an unforgettable experience that pushed the boundaries of interactive entertainment. The 50 Best Games of 2024: A Deeper Dive Now, let’s explore the full list of 50 games that made 2024 an exceptional year for gaming. Each title offers something unique and memorable, from groundbreaking innovations to heartwarming stories. Action & Adventure: Role-Playing: Sports & Racing: Strategy & Simulation: Indie Gems: Horror & Thriller: Platformers & Puzzle: Shooters: Other Notable Titles: This list represents a diverse selection of the best games 2024 had to offer. With so many incredible experiences to choose from, there’s truly something for every type of gamer. My Personal Favorites As an avid gamer, I had the pleasure of experiencing many of these titles firsthand. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree completely consumed me with its vast world and challenging combat. I spent countless hours exploring every nook and cranny, uncovering secrets and battling formidable foes. The sense of accomplishment after overcoming a difficult boss or discovering a hidden area was truly exhilarating. Another standout for me was Thank Goodness You’re Here. Its quirky humor and unique gameplay loop had me laughing out loud one minute and scratching my head in puzzlement the next. It was a refreshing and delightful experience that I won’t soon forget. Looking Ahead 2024 has set a high bar for gaming, and I’m excited to see what the future holds. With new consoles on the horizon and innovative technologies emerging, the possibilities are endless. I can’t wait to see what new worlds, characters, and stories await us in the years to come. 2024 was a year of exceptional gaming experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just starting your journey, there’s something on this list for you. So grab your controller, dive in, and discover the magic of 2024’s best games.None
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden said Sunday that the sudden collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad is a “fundamental act of justice” after decades of repression, but it was “a moment of risk and uncertainty” for the Mideast. Speaking at the White House, Biden said the U.S. was not sure of Assad’s whereabouts, but was monitoring reports he was seeking refuge in Moscow. Biden credited action by the U.S. and its allies for weakening Syria’s backers — Russia, Iran and Hezbollah. He said “for the first time” that they could no longer defend Assad’s grip on power. “Our approach has shifted the balance of power in the Middle East,” Biden said. THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below. WASHINGTON (AP) — The sudden collapse of the Syrian government under Bashar Assad is forcing the Biden administration and the incoming Trump team to confront intensifying questions about the possibility of greater conflicts across the Middle East. President-elect Donald Trump said Sunday that Assad had fled his country, which his family had ruled for decades , because close ally Vladimir Putin, the Russian president, “was not interested in protecting him any longer.” Those comments on Trump’s social media platform came a day after he used another post to decry the possibility of the U.S. intervening militarily in Syria to aid the rebels, declaring, “THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT.” The Biden administration had no intention of intervening, according to President Joe Biden’s national security adviser. Biden was meeting with his national security team at the White House on Sunday. He was expected to make public comments later in the day. The U.S has about 900 troops in Syria, including forces working with Kurdish allies in the opposition-held northeast to prevent any resurgence of the Islamic State group. Assad’s fall adds to an already tense situation throughout much of region on many fronts, including Israel’s war with Hamas in Gaza and its fragile cease-fire with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Trump, who takes office Jan. 20, 2025, made a connection between the upheaval in Syria and Russia’s war in Ukraine , noting that Assad’s allies in Moscow, as well as in Iran, the main sponsor of Hamas and Hezbollah, “are in a weakened state right now.” The Syrian opposition that brought down Assad is led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham . The Biden administration has designated the group as a terrorist organization and says it has links to al-Qaida, although Hayat Tahrir al-Sham says it has since broken ties with al-Qaida. Vice President-elect JD Vance , a veteran of the U.S.-led war in Iraq, wrote on own social media Sunday to express skepticism about the insurgents. “Many of ‘the rebels’ are a literal offshoot of ISIS. One can hope they’ve moderated. Time will tell,” he said, using another acronym for the group. Trump has suggested that Assad’s ouster can advance the prospects for an end to fighting in Ukraine, which was invaded by Russia in February 2022. Trump wrote that Putin’s government “lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine” and the Republican called for an immediate cease-fire, a day after meeting in Paris with the French and Ukrainian leaders . Daniel B. Shapiro, a deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East, said the American military presence will continue in eastern Syria but was “solely to ensure the enduring defeat of ISIS and has nothing to do with other aspects of this conflict.” “We call on all parties in Syria to protect civilians, particularly those from Syria’s minority communities to respect international military norms and to work to achieve a resolution to include the political settlement,” Shapiro said. “Multiple actors in this conflict have a terrible track record to include Assad’s horrific crimes, Russia’s indiscriminate aerial bomb bombardment, Iranian-back militia involvement and the atrocities of ISIS,” he added. Shapiro, however, was careful not to directly say Assad had been deposed by the insurgents. “If confirmed, no one should shed any tears over the Assad regime,” he said. As they pushed toward the Syrian capital of Damascus, the opposition freed political detainees from government prisons. The family of missing U.S. journalist Austin Tice renewed calls to find him. “To everyone in Syria that hears this, please remind people that we’re waiting for Austin,” Tice’s mother, Debra, said in comments that hostage advocacy groups spread on social media. “We know that when he comes out, he’s going to be fairly dazed & he’s going to need lots of care & direction. Direct him to his family please!” Tice disappeared in 2012 outside Damascus, amid intensification of what became a civil war stretching more than a decade. ___ Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Manama, Bahrain, contributed to this report. Will Weissert, The Associated Press
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