During his visit to Germany, Brazilian President Lula
da Silva, said that the country was tired of being
an invisible developing nation.
"Brazil is tired of being a small, developing country,
tired of being treated as a third world country, an
invisible country," TASS quoted him as saying.
According to him, the country has long deserved
a different treatment on the global stage.
He clarified that Brazil has achieved economic stability,
attracts foreign investment, and is ready to increase
cooperation with its partners.
Earlier, the Brazilian president called on the US
------- to treat other countries as equals.
___________________________________________
EU Commissioner: EU residents
cannot afford decent housing
April 20th, 12:05pm
(RT.ru)
The EU is experiencing a deep housing crisis, according
to the EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing,
Dan Jorgensen.
"We are in the epicentre of the housing crisis," he said
at a press conference in Barcelona, according to
RIA Novosti.
According to him, many categories
of citizens cannot afford housing.
Jørgensen noted - that the problem affects teachers,
police officers, and medical professionals, as well as young people.
"They can't live in decent housing... Young people
can't start an adult, autonomous life,"
he emphasized.
Earlier, the head of the RDIF, Kirill Dmitriev, said
that EU officials - had underestimated the
consequences of their decisions,
for the region's economy.
___________________________
Mass shooting in Louisiana,
the deadliest in the US
- for two years
April 20th, 10:06am
(Prensa Latina)
The city of Shreveport, Louisiana, remains shocked today
after the murder of eight children, between three and 11
years old, in an act of violence that marks the deadliest
mass shooting in the United States since 2024.
The attacker, a 31-year-old father identified as Shamar
Elkins -- who shot and killed his seven children and a
cousin, and seriously injured two women, including
his wife, in a series of attacks on at least two
homes before dawn this Sunday.
Authorities described the crime as an act of “domestic
nature” and Elkins reportedly fled the area in a stolen
vehicle by assault and a police chase ensued,
where he was injured ...and died.
“This is a tragic situation, perhaps the worst tragic
situation we have ever had in Shreveport”,
Mayor Tom Arceneaux said...... at a
news conference.
For his part, the Speaker of the United States House of
Representatives, Mike Johnson, who was elected by
the Shreveport area to Congress, described the
deaths as “heartbreaking”.
“We keep the victims, their families and loved ones,
and our Shreveport community very much in our
thoughts and prayers.... during this incredibly
difficult time”, he said.
So far the deadliest shooting in the last two years
was in January 2024 in Chicago, when a 23-
year-old man shot eight people, most of
them his relatives.
At least 114 mass shootings have been reported
so far in 2026 in the country, according to the
Gun Violence Archive tracker.
________________________________
Russia asks....to avoid
a pandemic of fascism
April 20th, 2:45am
(Prensa Latina)
Russia urges the world community not to forget the lessons
of the past and stop the spread of revenge moving towards
a terrible pandemic of fascism, the spokesperson for the
Foreign Ministry, María Zajárova, said today.
When answering a question from the TASS news agency.. about why there is a wealth of falsification of history by
the West, the diplomat recalled the concept of revenge
....as something that was not very clear in her youth
“some term that, apparently, I think we... never
relate to in real life», she said.
Zakharova, who participated in the Day of Commemoration
of the Victims of the Genocide of the Soviet People, noted
that “we probably learned poorly from the movie Ordinary
Fascism, because there was - this warning: that a huge
and terrible pandemic of historical revenge can grow
from a small bacillus», she highlighted.
The diplomat pointed out that the citizens of the Soviet
Union and then Russia understood the «bad» essence
of the concept of revenge, but they could not think
of its future expansion....... in the minds of the
Western elites.
Zakharova stressed that attempts by Western countries
to rewrite history have clearly demonstrated the true
meaning of revanchism.
«This means ----- that they do not want to live with the
understanding that they have lost, they do not want
to give us victory - they do not want to recognize,
despite the Nuremberg Tribunal - despite --- all
of the decisions enshrined in the UN Charter,
they don't want to recognize that there are
winning countries, or that our country
occupies a central place among
them», she stressed.
__________________________
Three medals, the goal of
Vietnamese athletics for
the Asian Games
April 20th, 5:05am
(Prensa Latina)
Get three medals, one of each colour, today, is the objective
set by Vietnamese athletics for the twentieth edition of the
Asian Games (Asiad 20), scheduled for next September in
Nagoya, Japan.
This is an ambitious goal, but the team is confident
of achieving the best possible results thanks to
meticulous preparation, both in quantity and
quality, carried out in recent times, the
Hanoi Moi newspaper assessed, in
a comment.
The publication recalled.... that the last three continental
events clearly reflected the ups and downs of Vietnam's
representation in the field and track events.
At the 2014 Asian Games, two silver medals were achieved
and four years later the harvest was a pair of titles and
three bronze medals, which was followed by a total
failure in the 2022 event.
This reality, the newspaper opined, makes the goal of
winning a gold medal in the next XX Asian Games an
extremely difficult challenge: to win, the coaching
staff of the Vietnamese athletics team has been
developing a plan ---- focused on improving the
performance of their athletes.
Among the main trump cards... of the beautiful sport in
Vietnam are Nguyen Thi Oanh, Hoang Nguyen Thanh
and Nguyen Trung Cuong, who have maintained a
constant level, and young talents like Phung Thi
Hue, in the hectometre, and Bui Thi Kim Anh, in the high jump.
According to the president of the Vietnamese Athletics
Federation, Hoang Ve Dung, the XX Asian Games are
not just an immediate goal, but also a crucial test
for the rise of this discipline in the Asian sports
scene and, even more so ---- to ensure its
participation in the Olympic Games.
“If we take advantage of this opportunity well, it could be
a turning point - to consolidate our position and begin a
new stage of development for Vietnamese athletics”,
he predicted.
_____________________________
Zakharova called attempts to rewrite historyan
insult------- to the memory of the Soviet people
April 18th, 10:34pm
(Izvestia.ru)
Attempts to rewrite history and equalize the aggressor and
the liberator in World War II --- offend the memory of the
Soviet people and contradict the decisions of the
Nuremberg Tribunal, which made a clear
decision on this issue.
This was stated by Maria Zakharova, the official representative
of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on April the 19th, in
connection with the Day of Remembrance of the Victims of
the Genocide of the Soviet People.
"Attempts to rewrite history, to equalize the aggressor and
the liberator, offend the memory of the Soviet people and
contradict the decisions of the Nuremberg Tribunal --
which recognized the Nazi leadership as criminal,
& the Soviet people as a victim and the victor,"
she said to RIA Novosti.
The diplomat emphasized that during the Nuremberg Trials,
one of the authors of the plan to attack the USSR, Field
Marshal Friedrich Paulus ------ provided evidence, that
Germany was responsible for starting World War II.
Zakharova noted days earlier that the Russian Foreign Ministry
is conducting systematic work --- to promote the international
recognition of the genocide of the Soviet people. Cooperation
has been established within the framework of the Russian-
Belarusian working group ---- on establishing the
circumstances of the genocide of the Soviet
people during the Great Patriotic War.
This qualification has already been mentioned in joint
statements by the foreign ministers of Russia and
Belarus, as well as the presidents of Russia
and Kazakhstan.
Russian President Vladimir Putin on April 8 signed a law on
punishment for denial and approval of the genocide of
the Soviet people. So, for public denial of the fact
of genocide ---- you may be threatened with
imprisonment for up to three years.
____________________________________________
Lula summons Security Council
as many ----defend Cuba
April 18th, 7:56am
(Prensa Latina)
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva today
called on the UN Permanent Security Council to
change its behaviour, while defending
Cuba's sovereignty.
At the closing of the IV Summit in Defense of Democracy,
part of the Global Progressive Mobilisation -- that has
been in session since yesterday, in Barcelona, the
president of the South American giant, stressed
that "no president, of any country in the world
has the right ------- to impose rules on other
presidents. None."
In a blunt and categorical tone, Lula da Silva pointed out that
"the five (permanent) members of the UN Security Council,
must meet to change their behaviour. We can't wake up
every day in the morning .......and go to sleep at night
....always with a president's tweet ----- threatening
the world, declaring war."
No one has the right to impose rules on other countries,
he said, and then expressed great concern about
what is happening in Cuba.
"We have to stop with this blockade of Cuba and let
Cubans live their lives. It is not possible for us to
remain silent ---- in the face of that," he said.
Shortly before, the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum,
proposed a statement against military intervention in Cuba,
in her speech at the IV Summit in Defense of Democracy.
"I want to propose a statement -- against military intervention in
Cuba. May dialogue and peace prevail," she stressed --- at the
meeting in which the head of the Spanish government, Pedro Sánchez, and the presidents of Brazil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva; Colombia, Gustavo Petro, and Uruguay,
Yamadú Orsi, among others, fully agreed.
_________________________________________
To Lam Exalts Contributions to the Unity of the Elderly and Community Leaders
April 18th, 3:25am
(Prensa Latina)
The general secretary of the Communist Party (CPV) and President of Vietnam, To Lam, praised here today --- the
contribution that elders & community leaders make to
national unity & the safeguarding of cultural heritage.
These comrades are not only guardians of community
memory, but also spiritual pillars, points of trust and
contributors to maintaining stability and cohesion
at the local level, the Vietnamese leader noted -
at an event held on the occasion of Vietnam's
Day of Ethnic Cultures.
To Lam stressed - that protecting the cultures of ethnic
groups is not only about preserving heritage, but also
about safeguarding the spiritual foundations of
society, strengthening national unity and
creating an intrinsic force - a power -
for sustainable development.
He noted that, despite achievements in this endeavour,
it must be frankly acknowledged "that the cause of
preserving and promoting the cultural values of
ethnic groups faces many new difficulties and
challenges, some of which are long-term
problems that have a direct impact on
the foundations of the country's
sustainable development.
In areas with a minority population, it is essential to achieve
harmonious development that combines the improvement
of the standard of living with the preservation of cultural
identity, integration with cultural autonomy, and, above
all, emphasizing the leading role of the community,
he said.
The party leader and head of state also called for
working together to maintain peace in the
villages, thus contributing to stability
at the local level.
"With their prestige, responsibility and close ties with the
village, the companions, elders and brothers should
continue to set an example, encouraging villagers
not to pay attention to false incitement, not to
break the law .....and not to allow negative
elements to infiltrate the community,"
he said.
To Lam stressed that the preservation of culture should
be closely linked to economic development, especially
community-based tourism, so people can preserve
their identity and increase their income, thus
generating a long-term motivation..... for
cultural preservation and promotion.
At the event, Vietnam's Minister of Culture, Sports and
Tourism Lam Thi Phuong Thanh said that to date the
country has revived over 180 traditional festivals
linked to tourism development and established
nearly 200 models to preserve & experience
the culture associated with the so-called
chimneyless industry.
More than 720 popular culture clubs were also built and
5,760 traditional performing arts groups were formed,
and 50 programs were implemented for the research,
restoration and preservation of intangible cultural
heritage ....at risk of disappearing.
In addition... 351 ethnic minority intangible cultural heritage
properties are included in a list of 735 national intangible
cultural heritage properties drawn up by the ministry.
Established in 2008 by government decision, Vietnam's Day
of Ethnic Cultures has become an important holiday for
people from all ethnic groups to meet, interact and
immerse themselves in traditional festivals and
their unique cultural spaces.
_________________________________________
Vietnam Recognizes Progress in
Expanded Human Capital Index
April 18th, 3:04am
(Prensa Latina)
The advances shown today by Vietnam in the Expanded
Human Capital Index (HCI+) were recognized by
international organizations by placing it
among the top five.... with the best
performance among countries
with similar income levels.
The recognition was made public in the context of the
2026 Spring Meetings of the World Bank (WB) and the
International Monetary Fund (IMF), held recently in
Washington D.C., according to the Ministry of
Finance of Vietnam.
This distinction by multilateral financial organizations
endorses the results in the development and use of
human resources, as well as in the promotion of
competitiveness and the transformation of
the labour market, the ministry said.
He further stressed that these results are linked to the
implementation of resolutions on the protection and
care of people's health and the development of
education and training of human resources
by 2030.
From the perspective of economic experts, he added, the
results of the HCI+ index in 2026 are not only related to
education and health, but also to the management of
public finances.
"Vietnam is considered to have the ability to transform the
investment resources of the budget for education and
health into economic results," the Vietnamese
government's electronic newspaper said
in releasing the information today.
Compared to other countries in the region with a similar
income level, he said, Vietnam has achieved greater
efficiency --- in converting skills into jobs and
real income.
The recognition at HCI+ 2026 once again demonstrates the
validity of its people-centric strategy - and proves the
effectiveness of the allocation and utilization of
domestic financial resources, a vital factor
for competitiveness in the new era,
the publication concluded.
_____________________________
Vietnam: Deeper reforms to
ensure quality of growth
April 18th, 2:02am
(Prensa Latina)
Despite having a projected growth that leads the region,
Vietnam today needs deeper reforms to guarantee its
quality, said the director of the Asian Development
Bank (ADB) here, Shantanu Chakraborty.
Vietnam is facing the need to modernize its growth model
from labour-intensive industries ---- to higher value-added
sectors, he told the government's electronic newspaper.
Chakraborty stressed that although the resilience of the
Vietnamese economy in the face of global challenges
is clearly demonstrated, "behind the positive figures
lies the need for deeper reforms --- to ensure the
quality of growth".
Vietnam's current economic dynamism is not simply a
recovery from crises, but reflects the fundamental
factors that have been strengthened over many
years of integration, he said.
According to the expert, in order to maintain high and
sustainable growth, Vietnam cannot rely solely on
traditional engines, but needs to focus its
attention on improving the productivity
and efficiency of the economy.
While Vietnam has deeply integrated into global value chains
and developed a strong export-oriented manufacturing base,
the domestic sector's value-added remains low, he said.
In this sense, the director of the ADB in this Southeast Asian
country said that "the advantage of low labour costs is not
sustainable in the long term. This underscores the urgent
need to improve its position in the global value chain."
To improve its position, he said, the ADB highlights four key
factors: a transparent business environment, access to
long-term capital, high-quality infrastructure.. and a
skilled workforce.
"These are fundamental conditions for Vietnam to move from
participating in supply chains -- to generating greater value
within them," Chakraborty said.
On the other hand, he pointed out that one of the strategic
recommendations made by that financial institution was
that improving energy efficiency was much more cost-
effective than simply focusing on the development
of new energy sources.
This indicates a shift in focus, from expanding supply to
optimizing energy use across the system, he explained.
Chakraborty also stated that the ADB "greatly appreciates
the recent progress in Vietnam's institutional reform, in
particular the establishment of a central role for the
private sector and efforts to simplify procedures."
The simplification of the two-tier administrative apparatus
and increased decentralization to local authorities are
expected to significantly improve the speed of
decision-making, he predicted.
______________________________________
The Total Dictation and the Children's
Russian Language Olympiad will be held in New York
April 17th, 9:05pm
(RT.ru)
On Saturday, April 18th, the Russian-American Heritage Centre
will host the Total Dictation educational event for adults and
the Russian Language Olympiad for children in the US state
of New York, according to Olga Zatsepina, President of
the Russian-American Heritage Centre.
The project organizer told RIA Novosti journalists about this
The events are organized as part of the Russian-American
History Month. The writing of the text... will take place at St. Nicholas Cathedral in Manhattan, the Russian
Consulate General and the State of New Jersey.
The children's Olympiad will be held on April 25.
The head of the centre explained that such events
help compatriots test their knowledge and stay
connected to their roots.
"But the most important thing is that it's
an opportunity to experience Russian
culture," Zatsepina said.
__________________________________________
Fico: The abolition of the veto power
will be the beginning of the end of
the EU
April 17th, 7:50pm
(RT.ru)
The abolition of the veto power of EU member states
will be the beginning of the end of the EU. This
opinion was expressed by the Slovak Prime
Minister, Robert Fico.
According to him, the EU is experiencing a huge crisis.
"The abolition of the veto... is the beginning of the end
of the EU, the beginning of the end, of this important
international organization which none of us wants,"
TASS quoted him as saying.
Earlier, Politico reported... that more and more EU
countries want to limit or abolish the right of veto.
EU Commission President Ursula von
der Leyen called for a majority vote
in the EU.
_________________________________________
Viet Nam, China, sign 32
cooperation documents
April 17th, 4:09pm
(VGP)
Viet Nam and China signed 32 cooperation documents,
covering a wide range of areas, within the framework
of the state visit to China by General Secretary and
President To Lam and his spouse from April 14-17.
The documents -- include a cooperation plan between the
Communist Party of Viet Nam (CPV) and the Communist
Party of China (CPC) ...for the 2026–2030 period; plus a
memorandum of understanding (MOU) on cooperation
between the Organisation Commission of the CPV
Central Committee and its Chinese counterpart;
a cooperation agreement between the Ministry
of Foreign Affairs of Viet Nam ----- and the
International Liaison Department of
the CPC Central Committee.
Meanwhile, the governments of the two countries signed an
MoU .....on cooperation within the framework of the Global Security Initiative; plus a handover certificate for project
documents supporting the preparation of a feasibility
study for the Lao Cai - Ha Noi - Hai Phong railway
line; and an agreement on cooperation and
mutual administrative assistance in
customs matters.
The other documents - include an official letter on a project to
build a second campus (first phase) of the Vietnam Academy
of Traditional Medicine ---- using non-refundable aid from the
Chinese government, signed between the Vietnamese
Ministry of Health and the China International
Development Cooperation Agency.
Also, an MoU between the Ministry of Construction of Viet Nam
and the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) of China -- on implementing railway training cooperation to enhance the capacity of Vietnamese railway personnel;
an MoU on vocational education cooperation between
the Ministry of Education and Training of Viet Nam
and the Ministry of Education of China.
The Ministry of Science and Technology of Viet Nam and the
Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China
also inked an MoU on implementing a joint Viet Nam-
China research programme; and another MoU on
cooperation in digital technology.
Meanwhile, the Ministries of Public Security of the two
countries --- signed a protocol on the establishment,
management, and operation, of a ministerial-level
hotline; an MoU -- on cooperation and exchange
in culture, arts, and sports; and another MoU
on cooperation in ensuring security and
order in tourism activities.
The Ministries of Justice of Viet Nam and China inked an
MoU on cooperation on strengthening partnership in
resolving civil and commercial disputes among
border residents; and a cooperation
programme in 2026 – 2027.
Other signed documents are MoUs on establishing a working
group to negotiate and promote the construction of a cross-
border economic cooperation zone -- & a working group on
production chain and supply chain cooperation, between
the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Viet Nam and the
Ministry of Commerce of China; a protocol on phyto-
sanitary requirements for the export of pomelo &
lemons between the Ministry of Agriculture and
Environment of Viet Nam .....and the General
Administration of Customs, China, (GACC);
an MoU on joint implementation of human
resource development cooperation plans
between the Ministry of Finance of Viet
Nam and the General Administration
of International Cooperation and
Development of China.
Also signed were the Minutes of the meeting on a field survey
for a feasibility study of an aid project for Viet Nam to repair
and upgrade....... the Viet Nam-China Friendship Palace; a
cooperation agreement between the Voice of Viet Nam
(VOV) and Xinhua News Agency of China; an MoU on
cooperation between the Viet Nam News Agency,
(VNA) and Xinhua -- under the mechanism of the
Global South Media and Think Tank Forum; an
MoU on information cooperation between the
Viet Nam Academy of Social Sciences and
Xinhua; an agreement.... on enhancing
cultural and artistic cooperation in
2026-2027, between Viet Nam
Television (VTV), and China
Central Television (CCTV);
a cooperation agreement
--- between the Ministry
of Culture, Sports and
Tourism of Vietnam
and CCTV.
Also....... an MoU on enhancing cooperation between VNA
and CCTV; a cooperation agreement between the CPV’s
Communist Review and CCTV; an MoU on cooperation
between Hanoi and Beijing for the 2026-2030 period;
an agreement to establish provincial-level friendly
relations between Phu Tho province of Viet Nam
and Shanxi province of China; a cooperation
agreement on cadre training between the
Party Committees of the provinces of
- Quang Ninh, Lang Son, Cao Bang,
Tuyen Quang, and Hai Phong city
of Viet Nam...... and the Party
Committee of the Guangxi
Zhuang Autonomous
Region of China.
Also an MoU between the People's Committee of Lang Son
province and the People's Administration of the Guangxi
Zhuang Autonomous Region on confirming the location,
type, opening time, working hours, and upgrading of
the Chi Ma (Viet Nam) – Ai Dian (China) border gate
----- to an international border gate.
_____________________________________________
Colombia: Candidate Cepeda rules out
resigning from the campaign due to
threats
April 17th, 2:29pm
(Prensa Latina)
The presidential candidate for the progressive movement
of Colombia Historical Pact, Iván Cepeda, affirmed today
that threats to end his life - will not stop his political
work or his proselytizing campaign -ahead of
the elections.
This was stated by the candidate for the Casa de Nariño in a
video broadcast on his social networks after the country's
president, Gustavo Petro reported that the US' CIA has
the real and concrete data of a possible attack
against the still senator.
Cepeda, who leads the voting intentions in the country for
the first round according to all polls, commented in his
statement this day that he has received precise
information on different occasions about
attempts to assassinate him.
He added that he ruled out making a fuss about this
since he does not want to sow alarm or panic in
public opinion, and that he chose to assume
a responsible attitude.
The candidate considered that, after the Colombian
president's comment, the current circumstances
can be considered serious, to which he will pay
full attention, and therefore will ask the
authorities to inform him in detail.
However, he ruled out that this will cause
a setback in the activities on his agenda.
“Under no circumstances will I abandon my political work
or the electoral campaign and I decisively call on my
followers, my teams, the citizens who will vote for
me, that we redouble our efforts and that we do
not give in to terror, nor to the forces that
want to end the process of change in
Colombia”, he noted.
Recently, the National Government announced that the
strength of the defence schemes assigned to the
candidates will continue to be increased and
security will be available in each H.Q. of
the 13 presidential candidates.
According to the Minister of the Interior, Armando
Benedetti, there have been 107 members of the
National Protection Unit (UNP), 160 members
of the National Police, and 29 conventional
vehicles, 39 armoured vehicles --- and 29
protective vests, among the measures.
He added that, to guarantee proselytizing work, each
movement of candidates for the presidency or vice
presidency is accompanied by at least 40 police
officers, with support from motorized units
and specialized personnel.
The presidential elections in Colombia will take place
on May 31 and whoever reaches half plus one
of the valid votes - will win.
Analysts predict that since there are 13 candidates,
a second round could be necessary, which would
take place on June 21.
To date, Cepeda, Paloma Valencia (right) and Abelardo
De la Espriella (ultra-right) lead in voting intentions,
according to surveys.
___________________________________________
ILO warns of 284 million workers
in extreme poverty
April 16th, 5:05pm
(Prensa Latina)
Some 284 million workers today suffer from
extreme poverty around the world, said
director general of the International
Labour Organization (ILO),
Gilbert F. Houngbo.
During the Spring Meetings of the International
Monetary Fund and the World Bank, Houngbo
also noted, that around 2.1 billion workers,
an amount that represents about 58% of
the global workforce....... remains in
''informal'' employment.
Structural weaknesses in the labor market and
the escalation of the war in the Middle East
threaten the income and employment of
millions of people, the director of said
UN specialized agency warned.
In his remarks, Houngbo stressed that persistent
decent work deficits are undermining social
cohesion and economic resilience.
He also observed - that the increase in sovereign debt,
limited fiscal space and high economic uncertainty
further restrict the ability of governments to
support workers and strengthen the
labour markets.
The conflict in the Middle East is intensifying pre-existing
vulnerabilities -- and transmitting disruptions through
energy markets, trade disruptions and rising costs,
which increases the risk of serious and lasting
effects in the world of work, he said.
In the hardest-hit countries, he said, damage to infrastructure,
disruptions to business activity, displacement and insecurity
are expected to reduce employment and incomes, while
putting pressure on labour market institutions and
public services.
Disruptions to energy, trade and supply chains
are affecting employment, wages and the
working conditions in many economies.
Low-income households, workers in the informal economy,
migrant workers and small businesses, bear the heaviest
burdens, with an increased risk of child labour, forced
labour ....and other serious, decent work negatives.
Houngbo urged governments to act quickly
to protect workers, preserve fiscal space
for social protection ---- and implement
active measures.
«Effective social protection, livelihood support and active
labour market policy measures -- are essential to prevent
vulnerable workers and households from falling further
into insecurity», he indicated.
In conflict-affected countries, recovery & reconstruction
must incorporate decent work, labour rights, social
protection and fair working conditions ---- from the
beginning, the director general of the ILO stated.
____________________________________________
Unicefdelivers donations to maternal
and pediatric hospitals in Cuba
April 16th, 4:31pm
(Prensa Latina)
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), today
made a donation of 100 oxygen concentrators for
emergency services ------ in Cuban maternal and
pediatric hospitals, its Havana office reported.
On its Facebook account, the UN entity in the Caribbean
nation published that half of these teams have already
been transferred to the territories.. of Havana, Villa
Clara, Sancti Spíritus, Ciego de Ávila, Las Tunas,
Granma and Santiago de Cuba.
Sunny Guidotti, acting representative of UNICEF in Cuba,
said that every input, medicine, or piece of equipment
that arrives in the country constitutes an opportunity
to improve health services and save lives -- like the
concentrators intended for the care of girls, boys,
adolescents and pregnant women.
The publication adds -- that the donation is integrated into
international cooperation actions that support the Cuban
health system in strengthening maternal and child care
and responding to medical emergencies.
Raimel Milan, specialist in the Medicinal Gases Area of the
National Centre for Electromedicine, appreciated this
equipment and said that --- although its benefits do
not replace a bottle of oxygen, they are feasible
in the event of a medical emergency, due to
their capacity of 10 litres per second and
their easy maneuverability in hospitals
and homes.
The Cuban National Health System thanked UNICEF
for the donation of the oxygen concentrators.
In addition, he expanded on this by stating that this
support strengthens the response capability of the
maternal and pediatric hospitals and contributes
to saving lives in emergency situations.
________________________________
Costa Rica opens literary
call with a citizen focus
April 16th, 4:04pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Ministry of Culture and Youth (MCJ) of Costa Rica today
called the Ordinary Competition of Competitive Funds for
Literary Arts Projects 2027, initiative to strengthen the
relationship between creation and citizenship.
The call ------ promoted by the National Library System and the
College of Costa Rica, to democratize access to literature, is
aimed at writers, editors, researchers and cultural managers
who wish to transform their ideas into proposals with social
and territorial impact.
The objective is for the stories to circulate and reach more
people, especially those who have been far from the
cultural offer, stated the Minister of Culture,
Jorge Rodríguez, in a press release.
Rodríguez stressed that literature constitutes
an essential tool to build citizenship, critical
thinking and identity.
The contest includes four modalities: Stimulus for Literary
Creation, for works in genres such as novel, short story,
poetry, essay, chronicle, dramaturgy and translation,
together with Training and Research, aimed at
strengthening skills in editing, criticism
and sectorial studies.
Added to the above is Editing and Dissemination, with
support for the production and promotion of works
and Reading Promotion, focused on communities
with greater access needs.
Applications will be open until August 31 of this year,
with results in December and execution between
March and November 2027.
In the words of the MCJ, the central axis will be Audience
Development, which requires proposals to detail how
they will be linked to their audiences, recognition
of the diversity of readers and the promotion
of active participation.
The participation bases are available on the official
website of the ministry, and applications must be
sent in digital format via email.
______________________________________________
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung
to visit Viet Nam next week
April 16th, 9:25am
(VGP)
South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung will pay
a State visit to Viet Nam from April 21-24, the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced
on Thursday.
The visit will be made at the invitation of
the General Secretary and President of
Viet Nam To Lam, said the ministry.
____________________________________________
Nicaragua - projects GDP growth of 3.5% to 4.5%
April 16th, 12:22am
(Prensa Latina)
The Central Bank of Nicaragua (BCN) projects growth
in the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for this year in
a range of 3.5 to 4.5 percent --- it transpired today.
According to the Macroeconomic Outlook 2026 report, this
forecast --- is based on the solid performance recorded in
2025, when the national economy grew by 4.9 percent
---------- driven by the expansion of most sectors, the
dynamism of investment, domestic consumption
and the favourable performance of exports.
The document, cited by Informe Pastrán, indicates that --- in
the first months of this year the Monthly Index of Economic
Activity (IMAE) showed an interannual growth of 6.4% in
January, with emphasis on the service, mining,
construction and livestock sectors.
Likewise, it highlights that the economy maintains
macroeconomic stability, with an unemployment
rate of three percent last February, and a
projection of between 3.0 and 3.5%
as an annual average.
Formal employment.. also shows strength, reflected in the
increase of more than 8,700 members of the Nicaraguan
Social Security Institute in the first months of the year.
In terms of prices, the BCN expects inflation to remain
low, in a range of 2.5 to 3.5% ....at the end of 2026,
aided by the reduction in international inflation.
The above is also supported by the application of
appropriate monetary and fiscal policies,
the subsidies for essential goods and
services.. as well as maintaining
the exchange rate slide at zero
percent, the text specified.
On the other hand, the entity revised upwards the
projection of the current account surplus of the
balance of payments, placing it between 5.0
and 6.0 percent of GDP.
This result responds to the dynamism of merchandise
exports and free zones, which in January 2026 grew
53.5 percent year-on-year, along with positive flows
of foreign direct investment and external income.
______________________________________________
They highlight the forecast
for Brazil's return to the
10 largest economies
April 15th, 3:28pm
(Prensa Latina)
Brazilian media today highlight the forecast of the
International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Brazil's
return to the group of the 10 largest
economies in the world in 2026.
According to the World Economic Outlook report, the
organization raised the growth projection of the
Brazilian Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from
1.6 to 1.9% for this year, and anticipated a
positive impact derived from the global
situation, especially due to the
country's status as a net
energy exporter.
According to the IMF, the current geopolitical scenario,
with tensions in the Middle East, could contribute
about 0.2 % to the growth of Brazil's economy.
The Brasil 247 portal highlights that the upward revision of
growth -- together with the strengthening of the oil sector
and the evolution of the exchange rate, will allow Brazil
to regain 10th position in the global ranking ....rising
above Canada, after having occupied 11th place
in the previous two years.
Along these lines, O Globo explains that the appreciation
of the real against the dollar affects the measurement
of Brazil's GDP in US currency, which favours the
world position of the South American giant.
Other media, such as Diário da Manhã, mention that the size
of Brazil's GDP could be around 2.64 trillion dollars in 2026,
affirming its return.... to the group of the main economies
on the planet.
Likewise, the IMF report, cited by the press, highlights that
the country has macroeconomic fundamentals that
strengthen its capacity to respond to external
shocks, i.e., robust international reserves, a
low dependence on foreign currency debt
and a flexible exchange rate regime.
Projections also point to possible continuity in improving
global positioning, with Brazil expected to advance to
ninth place in 2027 and eighth in 2028.
However, analyzes collected by the press warn that the
size of GDP does not in itself reflect the level of well-
being of the population, therefore, indicators such
as GDP per capita offer a more precise view of
the distribution of wealth.
Internationally, the IMF reduced its global economic growth
forecast for 2026 to 3.1 percent, which contrasts with the
slight improvement in the outlook for the Brazilian
economy ---- in the midst of a more complex
global environment.
_______________________________
Glas suffers neurological event
in Ecuadorian prison,lawyer
denounces
April 15th, 3:28pm
(Prensa Latina)
The former vice president of Ecuador Jorge Glas, detained
in a maximum security prison, suffered a “neurological
event, a seizure”, reported his defense lawyer Sonia
Vera, who denounced the lack of medical care.
“On April 13 at dawn, Jorge Glas presented an acute episode
in prison with loss of consciousness, fever and signs
compatible with a neurological event, a seizure.
Hours without medical attention. No
emergency protocol. No hospital
transfer”, Vera reported this
Wednesday on her
X account.
As she warned, the former vice president's health would
be highly complex, without a clear diagnosis, and his
life would be at risk ------- in the custody of the
Ecuadorian State.
The lawyer attached to her publication a document --- that
would correspond to a medical report on Glas' condition
and indicated that the official diagnosis would have
been reduced to........ “dizziness and fainting”.
Assemblywoman Viviana Veloz, of the Citizen Revolution
(RC), stated that Glas's situation “is not a political
issue, it is a human issue” --- and demanded
“guarantees, respect for their rights and
urgent international surveillance”.
RC legislator Xavier Lasso also recalled the situation
in Glas just 10 years after the devastating Manabí
earthquake and the country's energy crisis, two
issues that he dealt with during his period as
Rafael Correa's vice-governor.
“All this is paradoxical because the little electricity we
have today is thanks to the hydroelectric plants that
Glas promoted -- as well as the reconstruction of
Manabí and #Esmeraldas.But -- it is irrational
political hatred that keeps him imprisoned.
And that “feeling” comes from the elites
that currently govern Ecuador”,
Lasso noted.
Last week, more than 350 artists, intellectuals,
politicians and academics from 30 countries
demanded the release of Glas and respect
for international law by the Government
of Daniel Noboa.
The statement, released by the International Committee
for the Freedom of Jorge Glas and the Lawfare
Observatory, gathers signatures from former
presidents, legislators, jurists, academics
and human rights defenders ----- who
describe the former president as
a “political prisoner”.
Among the signatories are the Australian journalist
and founder of Wikileaks Julian Assange, the
musician Roger Waters... and the French
political leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon.
They point out that Glas' case shows judicial
persecution - and warns about his state of
health ...and conditions of confinement
in the Encuentro Prison-- a maximum
security penitentiary built by Noboa
in the Ecuadorian province of
Santa Elena.
“Although there is no evidence against him, Jorge Glas
served 100 percent of his accumulated sentence for
the cases called Odebrecht and Bribery”, the
text maintains.
He adds that - “to keep him imprisoned, a file called
Manabí Reconstruction was created and, without
a single piece of evidence against him, he
remains detained”.
Likewise, the document questions the police incursion
into the Mexican embassy in Quito on April 5, 2024,
where Glas was in asylum - and the police forces
violently broke in to abduct him, in a vile action
repudiated by the international community.
__________________________________________
Sánchez's visit opened
a new chapter in
China-Spain
relations
April 15th, 11:48am
(Prensa Latina)
The head of the Government of Spain, Pedro Sánchez,
concluded today an official visit to China, where he
held meetings with the country's leaders, which
strengthened political mutual trust and
multi-sector cooperation.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Li Qiang
and the head of the Standing Committee of the
National People's Congress, Zhao Leji, met
with Sánchez separately.
The parties decided to establish diplomatic and
strategic dialogue mechanisms to promote a
more stable growth of ties.
China and Spain agreed: to promote development
driven by innovation and strengthen cooperation
in renewable energies.
During the visit, both sides signed 15 cooperation
documents in areas such as trade, education,
agriculture, science and technology.
China expressed its willingness to increase
the import of Spanish products and
encourage investments by
Chinese companies
in Spain.
The Spanish side highlighted that cooperation
in energy and technology will contribute to
economic growth and resilience.
The two nations agreed on the need to defend
multilateralism and international law.
Spain positively valued the global initiatives
proposed by China ...and expressed
its willingness -- to strengthen
coordination -- in the face
of global challenges.
Likewise, the parties noted - that greater
cooperation between China and Europe
benefits both regions - and the world.
In this regard ----- Madrid expressed
willingness to play a constructive role... in strengthening
these relations.
During his stay, Sánchez visited Tsinghua
University, the Chinese Academy of
Sciences and the technology
giant Xiaomi.
The head of the Spanish Government
expressed an interest in promoting
international cooperation... and
contributing ---- to a multi-
polar world.
Sánchez's visit - the fourth in four years
- reflected the interest of both parties
in consolidating the comprehensive
strategic partnership & expanding
cooperation - in an international
context marked by economic
and geopolitical change.
__________________________
Brics India 2026 begins discussions on
cooperation in the healthcare sector
April 15th, 11:05am
(Prensa Latina)
With new cooperation proposals, india today chaired
the first meeting of the Health Working Group as
part of its presidency this year of the Brics.
The meeting, which brought together senior health officials,
technical experts and delegates --- from member countries
Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia,
The United Arab Emirates and Indonesia...... promoted
deliberations on the priority areas of public health
cooperation, according to a report from the
government entity.
Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava emphasized that
Brics India presidency this year will focus on fostering
sustainable ...and evidence-based inclusive health
cooperation, and recognize the diversity of the
health systems & socioeconomic contexts
of the BRICS member nations.
He highlighted --- the importance of adaptability, mutual
learning and leveraging collective experience ---------- to
The test takeoff and landing of the reusable Amur-SPG space
rocket are scheduled for 2028, the Russian deputy prime
minister, Denis Manturov, told the press today.
«Last year, technical specifications were approved for the
middle-class Amur-SPG rocket and for the prototype of its
reusable first stage. The launch and landing of the
experimental prototype should take place in
2028”, said the senior official at the
Russian Space Forum, at the
Russia National Centre
in Moscow.
Manturov added that this is a very important step towards
a new generation of national launch systems based on
reusable technologies.
The deputy prime minister stressed that the main objective
of the Russian space industry .....is to guarantee its
technological sovereignty.
«Russia is firmly committed to the task of guaranteeing the
technological sovereignty of the space industry. This is
our fundamental priority», he declared, although he
added ...that the country is open to mutually
beneficial partnerships.
In addition to the rocket, Manturov noted that the project
of a Russian orbital station - is entering its active phase.
«To ensure a continued presence in space -------- the Russian
orbital station project enters its active phase. The decision
to maintain the orbit at a level of 56.1 degrees will make it
possible to take advantage of the existing infrastructure
in the Russian segment of the International Space
Station, it will be modernized and coupled
to new modules», he explained.
Likewise, he stressed that the start of the deployment
of the Russian station ---- is also scheduled for 2028.
_____________________________________________
The Estonian Navy refused to detain
Russian vessels due to the risk
of escalation
April 10th, 9:07pm
(RT.ru)
Estonia will not detain Russian vessels in the Baltic Sea
due to the threat of a possible military escalation,
according to Ivo Vark, the commander of
the Estonian Navy.
His words are quoted by the Reuters news agency.
Tallinn.. has decided to abandon attempts to intercept
ships of Russia's so-called shadow fleet in the region.
"The risk of military escalation is too high," Vark said.
According to the military, the country's authorities will
only consider the option of military intervention if there is a direct threat.
In particular, he mentioned scenarios involving damage
to underwater infrastructure or large-scale oil spills.
Earlier, The Telegraph newspaper reported that the UK
is not seizing tankers carrying Russian oil --- due to
concerns about violating international law.
____________________________________________
Reuters: The war in the Middle East
is bankrupting Ukrainian farmers
by Alexey Komolov
April 10th, 5:39pm
(Rossiyskaya Gazeta)
To share
The US-Israel conflict with Iran is causing serious damage
to Ukrainian farmers, according to Reuters.
It is noted that the US-Israeli strikes on Iran have caused
unprecedented disruptions in fuel supplies, resulting in
a nearly doubling of fuel prices. As a result, Ukrainian
farmers are facing rising costs, and there is little
they can do about it.
According to one of the agency's interlocutors, who represents
the agricultural sector, farmers already need to stock up on
fuel for harvesting, as a failure to harvest --- "will lead to
a complete collapse."
After the US and Israel's attacks on Iran and the Islamic
Republic's retaliatory actions, the Strait of Hormuz, a
key route for the global supply of oil and liquefied
natural gas from the Gulf countries, was
effectively blocked.
Against this backdrop, fuel prices are rising
in most countries around the world.
______________________________________
Russian Ambassador Kelin
called the tanker escort
a surprise for Britain
by Alexander Mironov
April 10th, 4:35pm
(Vesti.ru)
The military escort of Russian-owned oil tankers ------ through the English Channel is a promised surprise for London. This, was announced by Andrey Kelin, the Russian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, in an interview with the Vesti news service.
''The fact that there was a combat escort is really great.
We promised this surprise to the British, and now it's
happening,'' the diplomat noted.
Earlier, the Russian Black Sea Fleet frigate "Admiral Grigorovich"
led two oil tankers through the English Channel. The Kremlin
explained that they resorted to escorting the vessels,
to protect them from international piracy.
_____________________________________
Colombia reciprocates hike of tariffs
to 100 percent of Ecuador
April 10th, 4:38pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Tourism of Colombia
reported today 100% tariffs on imports from Ecuador,
in response to a similar measure taken by Daniel
Noboa's government.
The minister of the portfolio, Diana Morales, further stated
in a press release from the Executive tried “all diplomatic
efforts and dialogue possible” in order to seek a way out
that would benefit the two countries, the entrepreneurs,
and especially ....the communities on both sides of
the border.
She regretted --- that there was no positive response
and, on the contrary, the administration of Noboa
announced a hardening on the business front.
Morales said that: facing the announcement to impose a
tariff of 100% on Colombian products that come on the
market of their neighbour, “we are forced to modify
the Decree 170 ------- level with the new rate
raised by Ecuador”.
According to the note of the Ministry, the proposal will be
immediately sent to the Committee on Customs, tariff
and non-Tariff Foreign Trade (Triple-A) to start the
modification process of the standard.
The tariff imposed by Ecuador to the colombian products, which
initially was 30%, and now it goes to 100%, would upset the
balance of the conditions of competition and of the
market between the countries, which negatively
impacts the domestic producers that compete
with products of the Ecuadorian territory,
said the agency.
It also recalled the communication that Colombia presented
to the Andean Community (CAN) --- a lawsuit against the
measure adopted by Ecuador, since it violates the
Cartagena Agreement of 1969.
On the other hand, the Ministry said that the Government will
promote the implementation of measures of relief for the
entrepreneurs... aimed at strengthening their liquidity
and to sustain the productive fabric of the country.
In this sense, he added, we will promote lines of credit
with favourable terms and conditions, a greater
acility of access to funding, and mechanisms
that allow firms to cope with this economic
period ---- without affecting its operation
and / or employment.
The impact of the actions taken during the previous
day by Ecuador go beyond the commercial sphere.
The president of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, asked the
ambassador to the neighbouring nation to return to
Bogota, as it was considered that their decision
violated the Andean Community.
___________________________________
Mendel: EU politicians ---- have already
seen throughZelensky's double game
April 9th, 5:04pm
(RT.ru)
Most European politicians have accused Vladimir
Zelensky of being two-faced. This opinion was
expressed by his former press secretary,
Yulia Mendel.
"A huge number of politicians and diplomats —— almost
all of them -- were puzzled by his behaviour. He gained
their trust, made solemn promises and demonstrated
understanding, only to act in a completely opposite
manner," she wrote on social media.
According to Mendel, this approach by the head of the
Kiev regime “did not go unnoticed” by the EU leaders.
Earlier, the head of EU diplomacy, Kaja Kallas,
complained... that she had no good news on
the allocation of a €90 billion loan to Kiev.
____________________________________________
Zakharova:The US--- is demonstrating its
aggression:due to its debts in the world
April 9th, 4:24pm
(RT.ru)
The United States is constantly demonstrating its aggression
& the fact is, that it owes huge sums to the rest of the world,
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeslady, Maria Zakharova said.
According to her...... the United States
owes the rest of the world $39 trillion.
"It's either a real estate bubble or an artificial intelligence
bubble. Everyone understands this. But the client is
constantly showing aggression," RIA Novosti
quoted her as saying.
Earlier, it became known that the US national debt, according
to the US Ministry of Finance, exceeded $39 trillion for the
first time in history. Translated into rubles, this is
3.24 quadrillion.
__________________________________________
Kallas:
The EU is not helping the Gulf countries
because of their approach to Ukraine
April 9th, 3:50pm
(RT.ru)
The EU does not want to provide significant assistance to the Gulf
countries in the conflict over Iran, as they are not helping Europe
in Ukraine, according to Kaja Kallas, the head of EU diplomacy.
"We also, have our own security zone in Europe... We still haven't
seen the Gulf countries really helping us there (in the conflict in
Ukraine. — RT), and it can't be a one-way street," she said
in an interview with CNN, according to RIA Novosti.
Earlier, the Berliner Zeitung wrote that Vladimir Zelensky,
amid uncertainty with Western military aid, is seeking
The Vietnamese holidays between April 25 and may 3, next,
are perceived today as a golden opportunity to boost
domestic tourism before the high season.
From the 25th to the 27th of this month people will take the day
off for the Day of Commemoration of the Kings Hung, while
from April 30 to May 3 will be non-working days on the
occasion of the Day of the Liberation of the South
and the Reunification of Vietnam and the
International Day of Work.
This creates favourable conditions.... for the tourism industry to
accelerate growth and achieve significant progress before the
high season of Summer, said a commentary posted on the
newspaper Hanoi Moi's digital edition, this thursday.
Given the current situation, characterized by the increase of
the prices of plane tickets and transport resulting from the
conflict in the Middle East, the travel trends during the
holiday will change, predicted personal sector
specialists consulted by the publication.
According to the director of VietSense Travel, Nguyen Van Tai,
the tourists in the area of Hanoi are showing more interest in
affordable tours by road, with domestic destinations such as
Ninh Binh, Sam, Are, Ha Long, Sa Pa, Moc Chau, Dien Bien
and Ha Giang.
The deputy general director of Viet Travel Company, Pham Anh
Vu, also noted that the number of vacationers who opt for domestic trips - is higher and the duration.... is longer.
To date, he said, the tours are the main product of the company,
representing approximately 65 percent, while for international
travel, customers choose safe and nearby destinations, like
Japan, South Korea, China, Thailand and Singapore.
For his part, the director of marketing BestPrice Travel, according
to Bui Thanh, stressed that despite facing a period of increased
transportation costs, clients have not diminished their desire to
travel, but prioritise destinations ....with reasonable prices.
In this sense, the journal warned about the proliferation of many
cheap, widely advertised in social networks travel offers,
which pose a risk of poor quality ....and tourist scams.
He pointed out - that in social networking platforms such as
Facebook and TikTok, have appeared numerous ads which
offer surprisingly low prices with attractive offers such as
“No hidden costs”, “hotel central”, and “luxury bus with
bunk beds, among others.
He warned, however, many publications lack complete
information about the organiser... do not have clear
directions and use personal accounts to collect
tourists' deposits.
For its part, the airline Vietnamese low-cost Vietjet Airlines
has already announced that it will operate nearly 3,800
flights in the period between 25 April and 5 May,
up 16% ....from 2025.
___________________________________________
Viet Nam welcomes U.S.-Iran ceasefire
April 8th, 3:39pm
(VGP)
Viet Nam welcomes the ceasefire reached between the U.S.
and Iran on April 7, said Spokesperson of the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs, Pham Thu Hang.
Spokesperson of the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang
Pham described the ceasefire, as an important step forward
in reducing tensions and restoring peace, stability, security
and safety in the Middle East.
Viet Nam calls on the relevant sides to exercise restraint, take
responsible actions, not complicate the sitution; respect the
independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the
countries; ensure security and safety for civilians
and civil infrastructure, as well as maritime
safety and freedom in the region, said
the Spokesperson.
She also calls on the relevant sides - to actively engage in
dialogues... to seek peaceful solutions to differences on
the basis of the fundamental principles of international
law and the United Nations Charter --- for their own
benefit, and for peace, stability, cooperation and
development in the region ....and the world.
__________________________________
Colombia:More than 10 million
travelers.... traveled by air
April 8th, 11:43am
(Prensa Latina)
More than 10 million passengers traveled in Colombia
by air between January and February of this year, as
announced today by the Colombian Association of
Travel and Tourism Agencies (Anato).
Of that total, the source detailed, 5,700,000 correspond
to national traffic and 4,300,000 to the international
segment, which together represents a growth of
8.1% compared to the same period in 2025.
“In February alone, air traffic reached nearly four million
passengers, with a growth of nine percent, driven
mainly by the dynamism of the international
market”, declared the executive president
of Anato, Paula Cortés.
The board also recalled that Colombia reached an historical
record of more than 57,500,000 travelers last year, which
in his opinion reflects the consolidation of air transport
as a key mode of mobility.
The behaviour of the first two months is in line with
the recent growth trend of the sector, he said.
In the same period of the previous year, he noted, a sustained
recovery was already evident, with increases of close to 5%
in total traffic, a trend that will accelerate.... in 2026.
______________________________________
Guatemala ----- seized weapons
and ammunition in containers
....from the US
April 8th, 11:38am
(Prensa Latina)
The National Civil Police (PNC) of Guatemala reported today the
seizure of firearms, ammunition and accessories located in a
container in Santo Tomás de Castilla from the United States.
Through its profile on the social network X, the institution detailed
that the incident occurred in eastern Puerto Barrios, department
of Izabal, when the authorities were carrying out routine
inspections and found the box destined for Santa
Cruz Barrillas, Huehuetenango.
In it, he noted, there were two rifles with telescopic sights,
two.223 rifles, two pistols, all with their magazines and
without documentation, three additional telescopic
sights, as well as 2,798 rounds of ammunition in
different calibres.
The PNC presumes that the shipment sought to evade the
controls established for the transfer and possession of
weapons in the country, so the case .....is already
under investigation.
He expressed that the corresponding procedures will continue
to establish the exact origin of the weapons, identify those
responsible for the shipment and determine if there is
a link with criminal structures.
Guatemalan security forces, according to the most recent
records from 2024 to 2026, reported a notable increase
in both the frequency of these findings and the
volume of weapons seized.
Analysts on the subject described it as common that
trafficking does not occur in massive shipments of
weapons alone, but rather....... through the “ant”
method, or in parcels.
Weapons usually come hidden in household items (washing
machines, refrigerators or stoves), boxes of clothes and
groceries or hidden in compartments of imported cars.
The official records for 2025 reported an historic figure of
almost four thousand weapons seized nationwide, an
increase compared to the 3,751 seizures in 2024.
___________________________________________
Thousands of young people in
El Salvador neither study
nor work
April 8th, 10:52am
(Prensa Latina)
At least 310,500 young people in El Salvador neither
study nor work, official reports indicated today.
The data extracted from the 2025 Multiple Purpose Household
Survey (EHPM) of the Central Reserve Bank (BCR) specify
that the ages of these people range between 15 and 29
years old, and the so-called NEETs represent 20.6%
of the population.
A review of the El Mundo newspaper survey... suggests that by
reducing the focus only on the population between 15 and 24
years old, the EHPM 2025 showed that 19.1 percent of these
young people do not work or study, equivalent to 186,115.
The publication asserts that on previous occasions, the BCR
clarified in the EHPM reports that the NINI population faces
limited possibilities for professional development as they
are not included in the educational system.
The document specifies that the female population between
15 and 29 years old is more likely to not study or work, with
31.3% in this situation, compared to 9.1 percent for men,
a gap of 22.2 points.
_________________________________________
With the Mining Law --- Venezuela
ensures resources for the people
April 8th, 9:53am
(Prensa Latina)
The president of the National Assembly (parliament) of Venezuela,
Jorge Rodríguez, stated today that with the Organic Mining Law
Project, it is ensured that every resource on Venezuelan soil
translates into well-being for the people.
In a message on his Telegram account, the deputy of the
Homeland Bloc alluded to the ordinary session the day
before where they discussed in debate - the articles
that establish the bases for “the creation of mixed
companies; environmental protection
guarantees and the sustainability
of the sector”.
The legislator wrote last night on the same platform that it was a
day of “intense legislative debate”, in which they advanced in
the second discussion of the Organic Mining Law Project,
proposed by the president in charge, Delcy Rodríguez.
He stressed, in this regard, that they managed to advance
in the approval of more articles that “strengthen the
sovereignty of our resources”.
In the opinion of the head of the Legislative Branch, this legal
instrument ------ is essential to promote national economic
development and modernize the legal framework of
mining activity.
Yesterday the National Assembly advanced in the unanimous
approval of another 60 articles in the second discussion of
the Mining Bill, to total 115 of the 130 that the legal
regulations have.
In the ordinary session - the third in which the norm is analyzed -
the legislators debated part of the chapter dedicated to the
Sanctioning Regime of this legal instrument, of which,
12 of the 18 articles were validated.
A press release from parliament, indicated that
it punishes those who operate outside the law.
Likewise, the exploitation of minerals without proper mining
authorization stands out, which will lead to the payment of
a fine of “up to a thousand times the exchange rate of the
highest value currency, published by the Central Bank
of Venezuela”.
He exemplified with article 114 that it penalizes “delay or
omission in the delivery of reports and plans required by
the authorities” with fines of 500 and up to a thousand
units of the currency of greater value, depending on
the severity of the fault.
This Bill was submitted to public consultations with workers
in the mining sector in the state of Bolívar (south), one of
the ones .....with the greatest extractive potential in
the country.
Among its principles it establishes that the right of ownership
of deposits falls only on the Republic and considers deposits
“public domain assets, inalienable and imprescriptible”,
according to its article three.
It stipulates -- that the management and stewardship of mineral
resources is the responsibility only of the national government
through the corresponding portfolio and proposes the creation
of the National Mining Fund ......with the objective of obtaining
resources intended for social projects.
_________________________________________
Drone football - gains
momentum in China
by Song Haoxin
April 8th, 3:26am
(Prensa Latina)
Drone soccer, an emerging sport that combines
aviation technology with soccer competition,
is rapidly gaining popularity in China.
The trend was evident.... at the recent Final of the Ablefly
National Drone Football Championship - held in Chengdu,
Sichuan province. The huge event had the participation
of 1,116 Chinese and foreign teams.
Within the fenced arena, players maneuvered spherical
drones with hand controllers, sending them through
the air in quick offensive and defensive plays, as
spectators watched enthusiastically as the
buzzing drones traced dynamic arcs....
across the field.
Drone soccer....... is an emerging competitive sport that
integrates drone flight control with the soccer format.
Players use remote controls, adjusting the altitude
and rotation with the left hand and directing the
movement forward, backward, left and right
with the right, as if they were playing
«football in the air».
The matches follow a five-on-five format. A valid goal is
scored when a spherical drone passes completely
through the opponent's circular arc.
Teams compete in group stages, crossover playoffs, qualifying
matches, semi-finals and the final to determine the winner.
In the field, spherical drones fly at high speed, creating
an intense visual impact and a high appeal for viewers.
«This sport is powered by technologies such as multirotor
propulsion systems, AI-based visual positioning and anti-
interference communication algorithms», says event
director Yang Xuefan.
«The positioning error ----- in the coordination of multiple drones
remains within 2 centimetres, turning cutting-edge technology
into an accessible mass sport.»
«It's incredibly exciting, like playing chess on a 3D board.
You need both quick reflexes and tactical thinking»,
said a contestant ------ from the University of
Electronic Science and Technology
of China.
From precise control and teamwork to real-time decision making,
players sharpen their concentration, judgment and coordination
in high-speed competitions.
Many participants noted that the sport ......not only improves their
understanding of flight technology, but also offers an immersive
experience at the intersection of technology and athletics.
In the stands, waves of applause and astonishment echoed
throughout the venue. «I thought - it was just flying drones,
but the competition is intense and highly technological»,
exclaimed a Chongqing spectator.
For many, this event was their first close encounter with
drone football, and a glimpse into what «sports of the
future» could look like.
An interactive zone also attracted families, allowing children to
experience first-hand, the appeal of low-altitude technologies.
Beyond the excitement in the countryside, the event also
highlighted the development of the low-lying economy.
Along with the competition, exhibitions were held on the
development of smart sports in Chengdu.. and on low-
altitude industry in Shuangliu district, showing the
achievements of more than 30 local companies.
Drone football is gaining significant traction in Chengdu.
The city promotes it as a key sport in schools --- and
trains teachers and integrates it into the science
education curricula.
«Drone football is not just a trendy sport, it is a vital link -- that
connects young people, aeronautical technology and the low-
altitude economy», an official from the Chengdu Sports
Office said.
«In the future, relevant technologies, standards and talent pool
can be extended to fields such as logistics, inspection and
emergency response», he added.
_________________________________________
Michelle Bachelet launches official
page of her candidacy for the UN
April 8th, 1:35am
(Prensa Latina)
Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet launched the website
to promote her candidacy for the UN Secretary General, with
a call to ''renew the organization'' to face today's
global challenges.
“Facing its centenary, the UN must project itself as an efficient
organization in management, coherent and effective in action,
and reliable in leadership, capable of inspiring the people of
the world again”, said the former president.
On the official page https://michellebachelet.org/ the program
and the main axes of her application to the highest
international organization appear.
The so-called “Vision Statement” recognizes that the multilateral
entity is at a critical crossroads and faces challenges such as
the intensification of armed conflicts, the rapid advancement
of technology and the growing threat of cyberattacks, to
which is added - the climate crisis.
“Building the United Nations the world's needs must be at the
centre of our collective mission”, the text states, and it
advocates strengthening international law.... and a
reform of the institution, faithful to its founding
principles and adapted to the challenges of
the 21st century.
On April 21, the presentations that the candidates for the
general secretary must make to present their programs
begin --- in order to lead the organization.
Bachelet, a pediatrician by profession and member of the
Socialist Party, was the first and only woman to hold the
presidency of Chile, a position in which she served for
two periods (2006-2010 and 2014-2018).
In 2010, the then Secretary General of the United Nations,
Ban Ki-moon, appointed her as executive director of the
UN Women agency, an entity called to fight for the
rights of women in the world.
She also served as UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
The former president has broad national and international
support and the sponsorship of Brazil and Mexico,
despite the fact that the Chilean president,
José Antonio Kast, decided to withdraw
his support, on the ''advice'' of an
extreme rightwing party that
props up his coalition.
Rafael Grossi, Rebeca Grynspan, Macky Sall
and Virginia Gamba also compete in the
race -- for the direction of the highest
international organization for the
period 2027-2031.
___________________________________________
Platform to modernize public
management launched
in Laos
April 8th, 12:30am
(Prensa Latina)
The Lao government today presented the
G-Chat v2+LaoAI platform to strengthen
cybersecurity, improve administrative
efficiency.... and advance the digital
transformation of the public sector.
The system was presented by the Ministry of Technology
and Communications at an event, with the participation
of Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith.
Minister Santisouk Simmalavong noted that the tool will
strengthen data protection and reduce dependence on
foreign platforms.
In turn, he indicated that the platform will allow faster,
more transparent and efficient coordination between
state institutions.
The system integrates LaoAI, an artificial intelligence
platform that supports officials in document writing
and information management.
Authorities highlighted that this will facilitate processes,
reduce repetitive tasks and optimize work time.
The Government considers that this initiative consolidates
the development of a modern, safe public administration
adapted to technological advances.
______________________________________
The EU ...has announced plans
to strip Hungary of its voting
rights if Orbán wins
April 6th, 9:25pm
(Izvestia.ru)
The EU plans to deprive Hungary of its voting rights in the EU
Council in the event of the victory of the ruling Fidesz party
of the country's current Prime Minister Viktor Orban in the
parliamentary elections, Pekka Toveri --- the head of the
Committee for Parliamentary Cooperation Ukraine/EU
in the EU Parliament, told Izvestia.
"A plan is being created in case Orbán ''steals the election''.
Most likely... Hungary's voting rights will be revoked to
allow the loan to be approved. I don't have a specific
timeline, but it's likely to happen very soon after
the election,"Tovughry said.
Earlier, on March 31, Kaja Kallas, the head of EU diplomacy (Lol),
visited Kyiv, where she said that she had“no good news about
the allocation of a €90 billion loan”for Ukraine.
She emphasized that the EU Commission hopes
that this decision will be approved at the next
meeting of the EU Council.
_______________________________________________
Road blocked in Guatemala
in rejection of fuel prices
April 7th, 6:05pm
(Prensa Latina)
Demonstrators today blocked a highway in Guatemala
in rejection of the rise in fuel prices, in a new day
that gave continuity to other protests.
The passage continues to be closed.. at kilometre 210,
University Centre of Cobán, capital of the department
of Alta Verapaz, according to information shared by
the General Directorate of Road Protection and
Safety (Provial), which monitors the situation.
This entity reported in the morning the blockade on route CA-2
West, kilometre 189.3 El Asintal, Retalhuleu, and on RN-16,
kilometre 72 Culiapa, Puerta Roja village, Santa Rosa.
The demonstrators mainly question the value of diesel, which
exceeds 43 quetzals (almost 5.6 dollars) per gallon, which
begins to raise the issue of operations under new prices,
especially for public transport.
The Chamber of Agriculture said, for its part, that the sector
registers significant increases in its production costs ----
driven mainly by the rise in fuels and fertilizers.
According to a survey, almost 90 percent of producers report
increases, and these inputs represent between 10 and
40 percent of their price structure.
The entity called for the implementation of temporary measures
to reduce the cost of fuels and fertilizers - including the
temporary suspension of import and distribution
taxes - as well as to give priority ------ to the
maintenance of roads.
The urban and interurban transport sector of this capital held
a peaceful march the day before to show discontent with
the rise in diesel, which left operators "on the edge of
operational collapse", they deplored.
The heads of congressional blocs listened to their concerns and
the population expects a definition in the plenary session this
afternoon, after over 15 days waiting for an agreement.
The deputies have before them at least five main proposals
(between bills and government proposals), such as a
possible subsidy of eight quetzales (just over a
dollar) a gallon of diesel, which would cover
about three months.
________________________________________
Iran’s Hormuz Strait TollHits Petrodollar,
Accelerates.... BRICS De-Dollarization
April 7th, 5:30pm
(sputnikglobe)
While the US - was stepping up attacks on Iranian civilian
infrastructure, the Hormuz Strait toll scheme in yuans
and stablecoins ......was gaining steam.
Iran's strategy "significantly weakens 'maximum pressure' by
bypassing dollar-based systems," Dr. Alam Saleh, a political
analyst at the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies at the
Australian National University, tells Sputnik.
This way, Iran is "effectively challenging the US economy and
the US dollar’s position as the global reserve currency, as
well as the petrodollar system," echoes Dr. Hasan Selim
Ozertem, an Ankara-based security & political analyst.
Stablecoins operate on decentralized blockchain
networks, making them harder to trace and block
Yuan payments are made - through China’s Cross-Border
Interbank Payment System (CIPS) - a viable alternative
to SWIFT
US attacks cannot reverse the emerging trend, since
transactions are likely processed in Iranian
underground facilities
Blueprint for BRICS
"It sets a powerful precedent, encouraging BRICS to experiment
with non-dollar trade," says Saleh. "The Strait of Hormuz could
indeed become a testing ground for petroyuan and crypto-
based energy transactions."
Iran's strategy.. can be scaled at a global level, Ozertem believes. In that case --------- it could "redefine the rules of international finance."
"For other BRICS members --- particularly Russia, China, and potentially India --- this model offers a blueprint for reducing dependency on the US dollar -- in the energy trade," the security expert emphasizes.
_______________________________________________
President of Colombia: repeated complaint -
about the condition of Jorge Glas
April 7th, 3:32pm
(Prensa Latina)
The president of Colombia, Gustavo Petro, insisted today on his
complaint that former Ecuadorian Vice President, Jorge Glas,
(2013-2018) is a "political prisoner" and asked international
entities to remain attentive to his physical condition.
"Jorge Glas is a Colombian citizen and is a political prisoner.
ask international human rights organizations to ensure
their rights. His state of health already compromises
his life because, being in prison, he has not been
given enough food and he is already suffering
from severe malnutrition and loss of muscle
mass," the president wrote on his account
on the social network X.
He added in his message that "letting a person die of
hunger, being under the care of a government, is a
crime against humanity."
The head of state's pronouncement is the second
issued in 24 hours on the situation of Glas, who
was granted Colombian nationality in
September of last year.
Petro reiterated his alert despite the comments made
earlier by the president of Ecuador, Daniel Noboa.
As alleged on his account of the social network X, the
Ecuadorian leader, the complaint of his New Granada
counterpart - "constitutes an attack on sovereignty
and a violation of the principle of non-intervention,
enshrined in Article 19 of the Charter of the
Organization of American States and in
international law."
Other personalities in Colombia also express
their concern about Glas' physical condition.
Senator Gloria Flórez, for example, considered that the
former vice president is subjected to undignified
conditions "deliberately."
"He has lost 14 kilograms, his physical, health and
psychological condition is quite worrying," she
said in a message released on his account
on the social network X.
The legislator - also asked human rights defenders in Latin
America and the world to defend Glas - "victim of so many
humiliations by the Noboa government," as she remarked.
Glas has been held in the Encuentro Prison, in Santa Elena,
since November 10, after being transferred from the
maximum security prison La Roca, in Guayaquil.
His defense reported that he served the sentences imposed
in the Odebrecht and Bribery cases, however, he continues
to be detained.. for the process called Reconstruction of
Manabí, whose written sentence of first instance was
notified six months later ----- violating guarantees of
due process.
The former vice president, considered one of the symbols of
judicial persecution or "lawfare" in Ecuador, was in the
Mexican embassy in Quito from December 2023
to April 5, 2024.
That day, police violently and without authorization entered
the diplomatic legation and apprehended him --- despite
having asylum from the then government of Andrés
Manuel López Obrador.
_____________________________
India - with world record in
Rifle and Pistol World Cup
April 7th, 3:15pm
(Prensa Latina)
India opened the Rifle and Pistol World Cup with gold
and a world record in the mixed 10-metre air pistol,
thanks to the surgical precision of Palak and
Mukesh Nelavalli.
The Asian duo turned the final into an exercise in mettle and
accuracy and shot by shot, like an infallible metronome,
they were building a historic mark of 487.7 points,
also a world record in the youth category, which
shook the galleries of Granada.
In the duel for the title -- Palak scored 243.0 points and Mukesh
contributed 244.7, a perfect combination to break records and
wills. Behind, the Chinese pair of Qianxun Yao and Kai Hu
secured silver with 484.8, while Hungary, with Veronika
Major and Akos Karoly Nagy, took bronze (414.9).
The warning had come from qualifying: the Indians were second
with 581-17x, only surpassed by China (586-23x). In the final,
however, they raised their aim and competitive character
to record levels.
Palak, just 18 years old, had already announced his breakthrough
with gold at the 2023 Asian Games and an Olympic quota for
Paris 2024, while Mukesh, junior world champion, confirms
his projection as one of the strongest hands of the
immediate future.
In this way, India opened its campaign in Grenada with a blow of
authority: a gold that not only weighs in the medal table, but
also sets the pace for a generation..... that shoots with
precision and dreams big.
___________________________________________
Income of Colombian women who earn
the least:grew in Petro's government
April 7th, 1:18pm
(Prensa Latina)
An analysis by the Vida Thought Centre released today in this
capital revealed a 40.3 percent increase in the average real
income of working women in Colombia with the lowest
salaries ...between 2022 and 2025.
For that same sector, according to the graphs released, income
growth was 11.3 percent during the government of Iván Duque
(2018-2022), in the second term of Juan Manuel Santos (2014
-2018) they reached 19.9 percent, while the first (2010-2014)
experienced an increase of 8.5 percent.
The country's president, Gustavo Petro, highlighted the figures
in a message released on his account on the social network X.
He pointed out ----- that income in Colombia was distributed in
favour of poor women during his government as never before.
Other figures account for the achievements of
the current administration in social matters.
A report by the Bank of the Republic pointed out that between
2021 and 2024 monetary poverty in Colombia was reduced
from 39.7 to 31.8 percent, that is, about three million
400 thousand people .....stopped being in that
condition in this period.
Likewise, according to the National Administrative Department
of Statistics, multidimensional poverty in 2024 closed at 11.5
percent, with a reduction of 0.6 percentage points compared
to 2023.
_______________________________________________
Colombia --- 113 people accused of
kidnapping and extortion arrested
April 7th, 12:26pm
(Prensa Latina)
Colombian law enforcement agencies captured 113 people
accused of crimes such as kidnapping, extortion and
related conduct during an operation carried out in
a dozen departments, according to local media
reported today.
The National Police, in coordination with the Prosecutor's Office,
executed the Hunter Plan "Operation Garnet" against 15
criminal structures, including the Clan del Golfo, the
Conquistadoras de la Sierra Self-Defense Forces
and gangs such as Los Costeños, Los Pepes
and Oficina de la Costa, according to a
report by Caracol Radio.
According to the news source, during the actions carried out
in large cities such as Bogotá, Cúcuta, Cartagena and
Barranquilla, 585 items used in illicit activities were
seized, including firearms, ammunition, grenades,
motorcycles and more than a hundred cell
phones used to carry out extortion.
The media detailed that in the northern department of La Guajira,
for example, the authorities managed to capture 13 alleged
members of the "Autodefensas Conquistadoras de la
Sierra" in the municipalities of Riohacha
and Dibulla.
Among those arrested are financial leaders, logistics coordinators
and those responsible for collecting extortion, who, according to
the investigations, maintained an organized system of economic
pressure against merchants, transporters, cattle ranchers and
businessmen in the tourism sector, he added.
The economic demands, he revealed, could reach up to 50 million
pesos (about 13,600 dollars at the current exchange rate),
depending on the economic activity of the victims.
______________________________________________
Smear campaign against Russian
media denounced in Colombia
April 7th, 11:52am
(Prensa Latina)
Russia is the target today of an organized campaign aimed
at discrediting the country and its media, according to
the embassy of the European nation in this capital.
In a statement, the diplomatic mission disqualified a report by the
so-called Digital News Association, which would contain alleged
evidence that "Russia has trained over 1,000 content creators,
journalists or 'influencers' to disinform in 8 Latin American
countries," including Colombia.
The mission rejected that several Latin American media, including
some Colombians, "without modification or verification," echoed
the alleged investigation, known in the New Granada nation
after an article broadcast by the Spanish agency EFE.
"You can tell at first glance that this is an organized campaign
aimed at discrediting our country and the Russian media. No
evidence is presented, only accusations are hurled: this is
today -- the 'standard' of the Western investigative press,
when the issue is related to Russia," the note remarks.
He added that it is curious how a "ghost report," produced by
a little-known organization with dubious reputation, was
never published on the Internet.
"All the articles in the Colombian press are based exclusively on
what EFE wrote. Following the blind faith in the veracity of what
the Spanish agency published, the media of this country did
not bother to deeply validate the facts, which in effect
constitute fantasies that have no contact with
reality," the statement said.
The mission added that it is "saddened" that the national press
is susceptible to the influence of the flow of politically biased
information ...from the West.
"It is unfortunate to see that, on this occasion, even some
prominent politicians in Colombia have been carried
away by this farce, publishing it on their social
networks," he said.
The note also warned that Western countries refuse to accept
that there are alternative sources of opinion to those they
impose on the rest of the world, which is why they look
for every opportunity to damage the image of the
Russian media.
"In the countries of Europe and North America --- the Western
authorities have the administrative tools and simply prohibit
the transmission and operation of media such as Russia
Today or Sputnik in the national territory. In Latin
America they use other tactics and channels to
defame the aforementioned media and our
country," he said.
On the other hand, he called on the Colombian press "to adopt a
more responsible approach when publishing news of this type
that launches serious, but unfounded, accusations against
other countries."
He also urged people... to follow the accounts of Russia Today
and Sputnik in Spanish to have an alternative vision of reality.
The representation of the Via Crucis this Friday was experienced
“with order, coordination and commitment” --- the mayor's office
said on the same social network, considering that “the results
reflect inter-institutional coordination and a government that
knows its territory - and responds effectively”.
The announcement of registration on the representative list -- was
made last December by the Intergovernmental Committee for the
Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage --- of the UN's Educational Organization, science and Culture (UNESCO).
The tradition began in the first half of the 19th century, as the
fulfillment of a promise to the Lord of the Cuevita – an image
venerated in said demarcation – after the population
overcame a cholera epidemic.
Formally, it began in 1843, inspired by the evangelizing theatre
of viceregal times, and since then..... it has been performed
every year.
8 original neighbourhoods of Iztapalapa participate and their inhabitants play a fundamental role by collaborating as actors --- or by joining the setting, decoration and logistical organization... prior to Holy Week.
In its evaluation, the aforementioned UNESCO committee
considered that the candidacy satisfied the necessary
criteria for registration, since it is a tradition that,
beyond its religious roots, promotes peace,
social cohesion ....and the exercise of
cultural rights.
_________________________________________
Holidays begin in Qingming... as
Chinese honour their ancestors
April 4th, 9:27am
(Prensa Latina)
China today recorded 19.28 million visits to cemeteries on
the first day of the Qingming holiday, according to data
from the Ministry of Civil Affairs.
According to the portfolio, 66,300 funeral institutions offered
in-person tribute services .....while some 377,600 officials
took part in activities related to the commemorations.
The authorities received 4.57 million vehicles in the
cemeteries during the day, the report reflects.
Likewise, over 12 million people opted for ecological tribute
methods, which represents 62.73 percent of the total.
Digital tribute platforms served 266,200
users through 857 online portals.
Funeral services carried out 13,600 ash burials, including
ecological modalities ....such as marine and tree graves.
According to the source, local authorities reinforced
security measures and provided practical services
for citizens.
The Ministry foresees an increase in visitors in the
remaining two days of the holiday (April 5 and 6).
The institution recommended...... that the population
monitor weather and traffic conditions to plan visits.
The Qingming Festival, also known as Grave Cleansing
Day, is an ancient Chinese tradition --------- to honour
their ancestors.
___________________________________________
Panama - increases its exports to the Caribbean
April 4th, 9am
(Prensa Latina)
Panama's exports to the Caribbean rose from 3.9 percent
in 2024 to 8.9 percent last year, a government report
revealed today.
According to the study by the Ministry of Commerce and
Industries (MICI), this boom is due to the opening of
new high-value niches and constant shipments of
industrial and fishing products.
This dynamism also responds, the report adds, to a promotion
strategy, which has made it easier for Isthmus companies to
identify demand and carry out business.... through trade
missions strengthening the Made in Panama seal.
In the industrial field, the company Refrigeración Internacional
SA has achieved a strategic positioning on islands such as
Aruba and Puerto Rico, adding more than five exported
containers to date.
For its part, the fishing sector has managed to penetrate
highly demanding market segments through the
company --- Salvamar SA, says the MICI.
The company maintains a weekly export of 1,500 kilograms of
fresh fish — including varieties such as snapper, chern and
dorado — to the Dominican Republic, after having made
previous shipments to Aruba and Puerto Rico.
A differentiating factor of this operation --- is the logistics used,
since the product is not exported frozen, but it is transported
by air under strict refrigeration conditions, to guarantee its
freshness ....and capture a higher value segment.
These results, derived from the missions organized by the MICI
between 2022 and 2025, have reinforced the diversification of
Panama's exportable offers, contributing to a revitalization
of the local economy and the generation of employment
in key sectors, adds the official note.
_______________________________________
Exponential increase in Uruguay's
exports to South Korea
April 4th, 7:01am
(Prensa Latina)
South Korea... was placed among the five most
important destinations for Uruguayan exports
in March, says an official report today.
Uruguay's Siglo XXI Institute registered an exponential
increase that exceeds 54 million dollars compared to
six million last year.
The increase was explained by two
products: wheat and cellulose.
Wheat obtained loans for 40 million dollars, explaining
74 percent of the total exported. Last year, there
were no wheat exports to Seoul.
Meanwhile, pulp rose 152 percent year-
on-year, totaling 14 million dollars.
Meanwhile, the EU was the main destination for Uruguayan
exports of goods in March 2026, with values of 193 million
dollars and an increase of 28 percent year-on-year.
Brazil came second with $179 million (16 percent),
with vehicles and dairy leading the basket.
China was the third destination with 166 million dollars
(15 percent), although it registered a drop of 29%
explained by the collapse in pulp purchases.
________________________________________________
International integration must
closely follow national
development tasks
and goals
April 3rd, 5:43pm
(VGP)
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has stressed that foreign affairs
and international integration activities must closely follow the
country’s development requirements, making a direct
contribution to the goal of achieving
double-digit economic growth.
Pham, who is also Head of the National Steering Committee for
International Integration, made the request, while chairing the
committee's hybrid meeting in Ha Noi on April 3. The meeting
reviewed the institutionalization of major foreign policy
orientations outlined at the 14th National Party
Congress, as well as the Politburo’s
Resolution No. 59-NQ/TW on
international integration
in the new context.
In his conclusion, the Prime Minister observed that the global
situation since the beginning of the year has evolved rapidly,
with complex and unpredictable developments.
Domestically ---- Viet Nam has successfully organised the 14th
National Party Congress and election of deputies to the 16th
National Assembly and People’s Councils at all levels, while
effectively handling both routine and unforeseen tasks.
The Government leader noted that key targets have largely been
achieved, with macro-economic stability maintained, inflation
kept under control, growth promoted ...and major economic
balances ensured, including energy security, with no fuel
shortages despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
Foreign affairs and international integration have
remained a bright spot, contributing to a
peaceful and stable environment -- for
national development, he stressed.
Looking ahead, the Prime Minister underscored the need to
uphold a proactive, dynamic and innovative approach in
adapting to changing circumstances by enhancing
forecasting capacity to avoid being caught off
guard, maintaining sound relations with
partners worldwide, and adjusting
policies.. to evolving conditions.
Pham highlighted the importance of upholding multilateralism,
promoting international solidarity to generate strength,
fostering cooperation to mobilise resources and
wealth, and engaging in consultations and
global forums to build trust.
He stressed --- the overarching objective is to serve the goal
of double-digit growth, with international integration placed
within a broader strategy and linked to rapid, sustainable
national development, in pursuit of the country’s long-
term centenary goals.
Pham called for improving the quality of economic integration
to support the development of strategic sectors; stepping up
discussed with his inner circle the possibility of
firing Bondi in connection with her order to
publish documents on the case of US
financier... Jeffrey Epstein.
Semafor journalist Shelby Talcott reported that
Trump informed Bondi that her time in office
was coming to an end.
__________________________________________
The number of fatalities due to
road accidents in Colombia
rises to five
April 1st, 1:21pm
(Prensa Latina)
The governor of Cundinamarca, Jorge Emilio Rey, confirmed that
there are five fatalities and 21 injured as a result of an accident
that occurred today on the Zipaquirá-Ubaté highway, in that
central department of Colombia.
The official confirmed on his social network account X that,
of the deaths, one is a minor, four of the bodies were found
inside the same car, and a fifth is a motorcyclist.
He also reported on the transfer of 19 injured adults
and two children (one in critical condition) to
healthcare centres.
He added in his message that care and extraction work
continues in the area, so the number of victims could
vary in the coming hours.
The governor previously noted that, according to preliminary
information, a cargo truck transporting milk.. would have
arrived at the area tollbooth without brakes, therefore,
it collided with six other private vehicles and
a motorcycle.
The accident occurred at kilometre 40 of the Zipaquirá-Ubaté
highway, which at this time remains closed and with the
presence of members of the law enforcement forces,
firefighters and first responders.
The authorities recommended travelers take alternative
routes and .....pay attention to official statements.
_________________________________________
Prime Minister orders construction
of additional oil reserve facilities
April 1st, 12:32pm
(VGP)
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh orders construction of
more oil and petroleum reserve facilities beyond the
planned site in Thanh Hoa province... in a bid to
ensure national energy security.
Pham made the order during a meeting held on Wednesday
to review preparations for the constuction of a crude oil
reserve facility in Nghi Son area, Thanh Hoa province.
The Prime Minister tasked the Ministry of Industry and Trade
to mull over the construction of additional oil and petroleum
reserve facilities in the central province of Quang Ngai,
Ho Chi Minh City ..and other localities.
He urged the Viet Nam National Industry-Energy Group
(Petrovietnam) to coordinate with relevant agencies
and Thanh Hoa province --- to promptly commence
the construction of an oil and petroleum reserve
in Thanh Hoa province's Nghi Son Ward.
The above project is not only an urgent requirement in terms of
energy infrastructure but also carries strategic significance
for economic development and national energy security,
stressed Pham.
In the context of steadily rising fuel demand and heavy reliance
on international markets for supply, proactive oil reserves will
help Viet Nam mitigate risks from unpredictable fluctuations,
said the Prime Minister.
At the same time.... the crude oil storage facility in Nghi Son
will enhance the operational efficiency of the refinery and
petrochemical complex, optimize the supply chain, and
create momentum for economic growth in the North
Central region ...and the country as a whole.
_______________________________________________
Brazil 62 years after the coup:
fightfor memory - and truth
April 1st, 11:38am
(Prensa Latina)
62 years after the beginning of the military dictatorship, Brazil
today remembers the date between acts of memory, public
debates and persistent demands for truth, justice and
clarification of the fate of the politically disappeared.
March 31 and April 1, 1964 - were dates marked by a coup
d'état and the beginning of a regime that lasted 21 years,
characterized by the suspension of rights, censorship,
political persecution ---- and serious violations of
human rights.
According to official investigations, at least 434 people were
murdered or disappeared for political reasons during the
period, although organizations maintain that the real
number could be higher.
More than six decades after the beginning of that dark stage
in national history, one of the main pending issues
continues to be the fate of the missing.
A report published this Wednesday by the Brazil Agency
indicates that the lack of an articulated State policy
continues to make the search... for forced missing
persons difficult, an historic demand from family
members and human rights organizations.
Institutional fragmentation, resource scarcity and
limited access to military archives ----- remain
key obstacles.
“There is -- no national program, no established program, no
institutional framework for the search for missing persons
or for forensic human identification work”, Edson Teles,
coordinator of the Centre for Anthropology & Forensic
Archeology (CAAF) of the Federal University of São
Paulo (Unifesp), told that medium.
According to that source, CAAF investigators are currently
working on identifying 1,049 boxes containing human
remains, found in the clandestine mass grave of the
Dom Bosco cemetery in Perús, São Paulo, in 1990.
Agencia Brazil: among the buried ----- were missing political dissidents, victims of the US-backed military dictatorship.
For remains identification work, the institution depends on
the periodic renewal of financing, which was cut during
the government of Jair Bolsonaro (2019-2023)... and
then ---- renewed in the current mandate of Luiz
Inácio Lula da Silva.
As the elections next October approach, experts warn that
another change of government or new cuts could once
again slow down investigations, which shows the
fragility of these policies.
On the occasion of the dates linked to the dictatorship, this
week various activities have been carried out in academic
and cultural spaces in the country, as well as public
demonstrations ---- to remember the victims of state violence.
In Rio de Janeiro, the National Archive hosted an event the
day before that brought together researchers, archivists
and activists --- to debate the role of documents in the
reconstruction of memory about 1964.
The meeting emphasized -- the need to preserve and open
documentary collections that still remain restricted and
are considered essential --- for historical investigation
and the location of victims.
At a cultural and intellectual level, articles and columns
published in national and regional media insist on the
need to keep this memory ------ alive.
An article published in the Jornal da Paraíba, for example,
emphasizes that the 1964 coup and the dictatorship
-------- must remain a critical reference in the
collective conscience.
However, the dispute over memory is still valid because,
while broad social, academic & political sectors agree
in characterizing the period as a dictatorship
marked by state violence, denialist
discourses still persist that seek
to reinterpret ------- the facts.
In particular, groups linked to conservative and military
sectors continue to use the term “1964 revolution” to
refer to the coup, minimizing human rights violations
and justifying a breakdown of the democratic order.
According to a dossier published by the international
network Esquerda Diário, even after more than 40
years of civil government, the dictatorship
remains an open wound in Brazil.
This is manifested, the text maintained, in the torturers who
were never punished, in the extreme right and in Bolsonaro,
who returned the military to the centre of politics, and
also in the economy, in the educational system - and
in police actions in the favelas and the peripheries.
More than four decades after the formal end of the dictatorship,
the South American giant continues to be the scene of a
dispute over memory: between those who try to rewrite
history and the multiple voices that are raised to
preserve it, demand justice and prevent.....
its repetition.
________________________________________________
Pope Leo XIV called on Trump
to reduce violence that
generates hatred
April 1st, 9:43am
(Prensa Latina)
Pope Leo XIV demanded that the president of the US,
Donald Trump, put an end to the violence that
generates hatred in the world, according to
a note published in the Vatican News
newspaper - today.
“I was informed.... that President Trump recently said he wants
to end the war, and we hope he is looking for a way out, that
he is looking for a way to reduce violence and bombings”,
said the Supreme Pontiff in statements to news media,
made the day before from the papal residence in
Castel Gandolfo.
The Bishop of Rome noted that this decision “would be a
significant contribution to eradicating the hatred that is
being generated and constantly growing in the Middle
East and elsewhere”.
In his exchange with the journalists present in front of Villa
Barberini, within the framework of Holy Week and a few
days before Easter, next Sunday, April 5, the Holy
Father urged world leaders to “return to the
dialogue table, and seek solutions to
the problems”.
“Let us look for ways to reduce the violence we are fueling, and
for peace, especially at Easter, to be in our hearts”, for “Christ
continues to suffer today in the innocent, especially in those
who suffer violence, hatred and war”, said Leo XIV, and
asked that “we pray for a new and renewed peace”.
“We make a constant call for peace, but unfortunately many want
to promote hatred, violence and war”, he asserted and recalled
that Easter itself: “should be the holiest and most sacred time
of the entire year, a time of peace, a time of deep reflection”.
However, “as we all know, once again in the world, in many
places, we are seeing so much suffering, so many deaths,
even of innocent children”, added the leader of the
Catholic Church.
On March 29, during the liturgical celebration of Palm Sunday
that began the celebrations for Catholic Holy Week, pope
Leo XIV expressed in his homily that “our God: Jesus,
king of peace” is “a God who rejects war, whom no
one can use to justify it, who does not listen to
the prayers of those who deliver war”.
Christ rejects the prayers of the warriors “saying that, although
they multiply their supplications, I will not listen to them; their
hands are full of blood” and, from the cross, asks them to
“Have mercy! Lay down your weapons, remember that
you are brothers!», he emphasized --- in his words
released by the press office of the Holy See.
In the wounds of Jesus “we see the wounds of so many men and
women today” and “in his last cry to the Father, we hear the cry
of the dejected, the hopeless, the sick, we loners, and, above
all, hear the cry of pain of all those oppressed by violence
and all the victims of war”, lamented the pontiff.
“While the Church contemplates the mystery of the Passion of
the Lord, we cannot forget those who today truly participate
in his suffering”, expressed Pope Leo XIV, and he asked
that “we raise our prayers” for “the people wounded by
the war” so that “concrete paths of reconciliation and
peace are opened”, adds the source.
_______________________________________
In Russia, Kallas' visit to Kiev
was commented on --- with
a well-known anecdote
Marina Sovina (night editor)
March 31st, 6:45pm
(Lenta.ru)
Vice-speaker of the Federation Council Konstantin Kosachev
commented on the visit of the High Representative of the
EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas,
to Kyiv ---- pointing out the wrong priorities of EU
officials. He expressed his opinion on this
in his Telegram channel.
"It's like in the famous joke where the keys are lost in the
roadside grass, but they're looking for them on the
asphalt under the streetlight.... because it's
easier to see," Kosachev joked.
He also noted with irony how "lucky" the EU
citizens are ....with their Brussels leaders.
Earlier, Kallas refused to name the date of Ukraine's
accession to the association. The head of EU
diplomacy said that Kyiv's accession to
the EU depends on ''both sides''.
___________________________________________
Colombia ---- achieved the release of
compatriots detained in El Salvador
March 31st, 5:02pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Colombian Foreign Ministry confirmed today - that
thanks to diplomatic efforts, the release of 24 fellow
citizens who had been deprived of liberty in El
Salvador since 2023, was achieved.
The inmates, according to the source, were involved in judicial
processes related to informal financial activities under the
modality known as --- “drop by drop”, that is, the loan of
money immediately and without legal requirements,
but with abusive conditions.
Of the 24 released citizens, 20 regained their freedom on March 5,
following a decision by the Sixth Court against Organized Crime
of San Salvador, that it approved the application of an
Abbreviated Procedure.
Within the framework of this mechanism, charges for receipt and
money laundering were dismissed, and a minimum penalty was
imposed for the crime of illicit groups, equivalent to the time
already served in preventive detention.
As part of the judicial decision - the immediate expulsion from
Salvadoran territory and a five-year ban on entry was ordered.
According to the Foreign Ministry, the return of the
compatriots took place in safe conditions on
March 16 and 19.
Additionally, four other Colombian citizens benefited from
decisions to definitively dismiss their judicial processes,
of which two returned to the country on March 24.
The minister also pointed out that these releases are added to
previous cases, bringing a total of 59 compatriots to freedom
thanks to efforts carried out since 2023, when there was an
increase in arrests of Colombian citizens within the frame
-work of the emergency regime in force in El Salvador.
__________________________________________
President of Bolivia denounces
international adultery of
hydrocarbons
March 31st, 4pm
(Prensa Latina)
President Rodrigo Paz today denounced the existence of an
international network dedicated to fuel theft, smuggling
and sabotage, that adulterated hydrocarbons in Chile
and then introduced them into Bolivia.
“I want to thank the government of Chile, because - part of the
information that will be given today and in the following days,
is in cooperation - so that there is a record that it is not only
a problem for Bolivians”, the dignitary assured.
He stated in a press conference that this crime is linked to a mafia
of Bolivian families or of Bolivian origin, that in relation to other
nations “they are doing this damage to us......... like an
organized mafia”.
“We are working with several countries” ------ reported the head of state, “but in this specific case with Chile, with their institutions that fight against not only internal crime but also international crime because this is crime, and they are international mafias”.
He anticipated that the investigation was carried out by
the Ministry of Government ---- in cooperation with the
Hydrocarbons and Foreign Relations portfolios.
He promised that Yacimientos Petrolófilos Fiscales Bolivianos
(YPFB) will be recovered for the country, and stated without
specifying names that a family has managed the largest
state corporation in Bolivia.
He added in this regard that, with time and the
judicial investigations, more details on the
subject --- will be known.
“We have families in charge who have managed YPFB,
especially a family that with time and investigation
and justice ..we will know and have details of it,
but we are going to recover that YPFB for the
Bolivians, not for these power groups”,
he maintained.
Paz considered that the battle against
crime and corruption --- is being won.
He insisted that there are already people in jail and stated
that “in Bolivia we are going to charge --- not as revenge
but as justice, all of those who have hurt us. They will
end up in jail and will have to return what was stolen”.
During the speech before journalists, the Minister of Government,
Marcos Antonio Oviedo, reported that, between October 2025
and March 2026, approximately five thousand tankers
loaded with some 150 million litres of adulterated
fuel, mixed with oil and dirty water, entered
the country.
He described that the “modus operandi” consisted of diverting
the tanks to private garages in Arica and Iquique, in Chile,
where the fuel was mixed and then entering it illegally
into Bolivia.
__________________________________________
Circulation of new banknotes
announced in Cuba
March 31st, 3:24pm
(Prensa Latina)
The Central Bank of Cuba (BCC) announced today - the putting
into circulation in the country of two new high-denomination
banknotes, of 2,000 and 5,000 Cuban pesos (CUP).
The measure is part of the update of the monetary cone
(number of denominations of banknotes circulating in
the country), as announced at a press conference
in Havana by BCC officials.
The Cuban monetary cone has been analyzed in the current
circumstances that the island is going through from a
financial and economic point of view, therefore, it
was decided to make this introduction - and the
other banknotes that are in circulation remain
valid, said BCC vice president Alberto
Quiñones Betancourt.
Starting tomorrow, Wednesday, April 1, the first bills of 5,000 Cuban pesos will begin to circulate in Havana and will
gradually be taken to the other provinces; and the
same will happen with the 2,000 Cuban pesos
bill, added the manager.
The issuance of the new banknotes aims to facilitate cash
transactions, respond to the real needs of the economy
that demands high amounts of cash, facilitating
reducing costs due to cash logistics and
gaining agility in operations.. in the
current times of inflation - that
the country is going through.
The Central Bank of Cuba, Quiñones added, maintains its strategy
of diversifying payment channels, with the possibility of reducing
operating costs, as well as improving the operation and agility of
bank branches to offer financial services, in addition to
continuing to work on increasing digital payments
and electronic transactions.
Julio Pérez, in charge of the Issuance and Securities Directorate
of the BCC, pointed out that for the first time in the history of
national numismatics, the two new banknotes
incorporate images of two Cuban
patriotic women.
In the case of the two thousand CUP bill, the figure of the Mother
of the Nation, Mariana Grajales Cuello, is reflected with the
predominant colours of violet and pink, and.. in the 5,000
CUP, the Heroine of the Sierra Maestra Celia Sánchez
Manduley, in blue.
Likewise, in the printing of the new banknotes, an element is
included in the Braille tactile reading and writing system to
facilitate its use by blind and visually impaired people.
__________________________________________
The cause of the explosion --- at Russia's
largest petrochemical plant is identified
by Vladimir Sedov (Editor of the
Power Structures Department)
March 31st, 12:23pm
(Lenta.ru)
In the Republic of Tatarstan, a criminal case was opened
after an explosion at Russia's largest petrochemical
plant in the city of Nizhnekamsk. This is reported
to Lenta.ru by the Investigative Committee
of Russia (SKR).
According to the investigation... the cottonfire in a work-
shop on the Nizhnekamskneftekhim territory occurred
due to a violation of safety rules in the technological
process. The exact number of victims --- is being
established. A criminal case has been opened
under Article 217 of the Criminal Code of the
Russian Federation ("Violation of Industrial
Safety Requirements for Dangerous
Production Facilities").
Investigative actions are being carried out at the scene
to establish the circumstances of the incident.
The explosion at the enterprise occurred on March 31.
According to the latest data, the number of victims
The leadership in Brussels - is plunging Europe into darkness
and crisis. This was the comment made by Foreign Ministry
spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on the EU Commission's
position on Russian gas purchases on March 20.
"It is absolutely logical -- that the EU is now plunging into
darkness, and, in the most literal sense of the word. It
is not a technical disaster, or a natural catastrophe
that is causing the global crisis in the EU, but the
decisions of its own leaders, who are simply
flipping the switch," she wrote on her
Telegram channel.
Zakharova noted that this is not about the personal choices of
the EC leaders, but about the involvement of entire countries
in darkness. She recalled the words of the poetess, Marina
Tsvetaeva, who said that - "the sin is not in the darkness,
but in the unwillingness to see the light." According to
Zakharova, Brussels has repeatedly plunged itself
---- into darkness. She cited the opening of the
Olympic Games in Paris, which many saw
as a public mockery of the saints, and
the opening of the Gotthard Tunnel
in Switzerland.... which was
accompanied by....... a
ritualistic ceremony.
In addition, Zakharova quoted the Hungarian proverb
"All cows are black in the dark" and noted - that
Hungarians understand the meaning of their
folk wisdom .....and strive to ensure that
there is light.
Earlier, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen
said that Europe does not intend to reconsider the
deadline for abandoning Russian LNG, even if
there is a shortage of energy resources.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on the same day
that, by refusing Russian gas, the EU is “continuing to
shoot itself in the foot.” The spokesman noted, that
if alternative markets, which are currently in dire
need of petroleum products, are “more
attractive,” then Russia will
prioritize them.
____________________________________________
PM Pham Minh Chinh
--------- to visit Russia
March 20th, 3:02pm
(VGP)
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh is set to pay an official visit
to Russia from March 22-25 at the invitation of his Russian
counterpart Mikhail Mishustin, the Ministry of Foreign
Affairs confirmed on Friday.
After 76 years of diplomatic relations, ties between Viet Nam
and Russia continue to deepen, grounded in trust, loyalty
and comprehensive cooperation, and oriented towards
sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Built on a foundation of long-standing traditional values, the
two countries continue to enhance collaboration across
multiple fields, looking ahead to a future of sustainable
development. This partnership serves the interests of
both peoples and contributes to peace, stability and
shared prosperity in the region and the wider world.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the visit, Vietnamese
Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi said the visit
comes at a pivotal juncture, shortly after Viet Nam
successfully organized the 14th National Party
Congress and the general election of deputies
to the 16th National Assembly. The entire
country, Party and Government have
outlined development plans to
achieve developed, high-
income status, with
clear goals set for
2030 and 2045.
Most importantly, while the whole Party, army and people are
determined to boost stronger economic growth -- Viet Nam
still relies on support from international friends, including
Russia. For many years, Russia has been a "sincere and
reliable" partner of Viet Nam. Immediately after the
Party Congress, Russian President Vladimir Putin
became the first foreign leader..... to call and
congratulate General Secretary, To Lam,
with the 2 discussing key directions
for bilateral ties.
Meanwhile, for the first time in years, Viet Nam sent Politburo
member and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Le Hoai Trung, as a
special envoy of the General Secretary... to brief the
Russian side on the Congress outcomes.
Pham's upcoming visit.. is poised to remarkably advance
cooperation across politics, national defence - security,
foreign affairs, the economy, trade, people-to-people
exchanges, sci-tech, and education - training.
In that sense.. it can be described as a comprehensive visit,
addressing both long-term matters and those of immediate
concern, such as energy security, said the Ambassador.
__________________________________________
Indian rupee falls to record low
against dollar
March 20th, 11:54am
(Prensa Latina)
India's currency, the rupee, reached its lowest historical level
today, trading at 93.49 rupees for every US dollar, after losing
0.60 units during the day.
This implies that more rupees are now needed to buy one
dollar, reflecting a depreciation of the national currency
in the foreign exchange market.
According to reports from The Hindu newspaper, the
movement responds to the outflow of capital from
foreign investors and the increase in oil prices in
the international market due to the war between
the US and Israel against Iran.
The rise in crude oil prices directly impacts economies
dependent on energy imports ...such as India.
The depreciation of the rupee increases the cost of imports,
especially oil, and adds inflationary pressure on goods and
services in the domestic market.
Analysts predict that the evolution of the exchange rate will
depend in the short term --- on geopolitical stability and the
monetary policy decisions adopted by financial authorities.
This gentleman picks holes in the intellectual ''mistakes'' of the West and points to the best solution for the world's people.
Britain's enemy is not Russia but its own ruling class, UN report confirms by John Wight November 19th, at 2:48pm
John Wight has written for a variety of newspapers and websites, including the Independent, Morning Star, Huffington Post, Counter- punch, London Progressive Journal, and Foreign Policy Journal.
As the UK political establishment rips itself to pieces over Brexit, a far greater crisis continues to afflict millions of victims of Tory austerity.
A devastating UN report into poverty in the UK provides incontrovertible evidence, that the enemy of the British people, is the very ruling class that has gone out of its way these past few years to convince them it is Russia.
Professor Philip Alston, in his capacity as the United Nations Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights, spent two weeks touring the United Kingdom. He did so, investigating the impact of 8 years of one of the most extreme austerity programs among advanced G20 economies in response to the 2008 financial crash and subsequent global recession.
What he found was evidence of a systematic, wilful, concerted and brutal economic war, unleashed by the country's right-wing Tory establishment, against the poorest and most vulnerable section of British society – upending the lives of millions of people who were not responsible for the aforementioned financial crash and recession, but who have been forced to pay the price.
From the report's introduction:
"It…seems patently unjust and contrary to British values that so many people are living in poverty. This is obvious to anyone who opens their eyes: to see the immense growth in foodbanks, and the queues waiting outside them, the people sleeping rough in the streets, the growth of homelessness, the sense of deep despair - that leads even the Government to appoint a Minister for Suicide Prevention - and civil society to report in depth, on unheard of levels of loneliness and isolation."
Though as a citizen of the UK, I respectfully beg to differ with the professor's claim, that such social & economic carnage, seems "contrary to British values,"(on the contrary - it is entirely in keeping with the values of the country's Tory establishment, an establishment for whom, the dehumanization of the poor and working class, is central to its ideology), the point he makes about it being "obvious to anyone who opens their eyes," is well made.
For it is now the case that in every town and city centre in Britain, it is impossible to walk in any direction for more than a minute, before coming across homeless people begging in the street. And the fact that some 13,000 of them, are former soldiers, casualties of the country's various military adventures in recent years, undertaken in service to Washington, exposes the pious platitudes peddled by politicians & the government as reverence for the troops & their 'sacrifice,' as insincere garbage.
As inequality increases, the wealthy and powerful become more desperate to cling onto their gains and distract us - with imagined threats and political sideshows - such as Jingoism, Russophobia and red-baiting...
Overall, 14 million people in the UK are now living in poverty, a figure which translates into an entire fifth of the population. Four million of them are children, while, according to Professor Alston, 1.5 million people are destitute – that is, unable to afford the basic necessities of life.
And this is what the ruling class of the fifth largest economy in the world, a country that parades itself on the world stage, as a pillar of democracy and human rights, considers progress.
The values responsible for creating such a grim social landscape, are compatible with the 18th, not the 21st century. They are proof positive, that the network of elite private schools – Eton, Harrow, Fettes College et al. – where those responsible for this human carnage are inculcated with the sense of entitlement and born to rule ethos that defines them, are Britain's hotbeds of extremism.
Professor Alston:"British compassion for those who are suffering, has been replaced by a punitive, mean-spirited, and often callous approach, apparently designed to instill discipline where it is least useful, to impose a rigid order on the lives of those least capable of coping with today's world, and elevating the goal of enforcing blind compliance, over a genuine concern to improve the well- being of those at the lowest levels of British society."
Here, set out above in bold relief, is the barbarism that walks - hand in hand - with free market capitalism. It is the same barbarism that was responsible for pushing post-Soviet Russia into a decade-long economic and social abyss, in the 1990s, and the values that have pushed 14 million people in the UK into the same economic and social abyss, in our time.
Austerity, it bears emphasizing, is not and never has been, a viable economic response to recession, in a given economy.
Instead, it is an ideological club, wielded on behalf of the rich and big business, to ensure that the price paid for the said economic recession, is borne exclusively by those least able to bear it - namely the poor and working people. It is class war by any other name, packaged and presented, as legitimate government policy.
However in Britain's case in 2018, this is a war like no other, because, as Professor Philip Alston's report lays bare, one side in this war has been throwing all the punches and one side has been taking them.
As the saying goes, wars take place when the government tells you who the enemy is; revolutions take place when you work it out for yourself.
(Source - RT)
_______________________________________________
Keiser Report: Reality of Creditor Jubilees
- fantastic - asks ''why don't we act like Jesus preached - and forgive debt?''
When what we do now, is what led to the slavery of feudalism: by refunding the creditors, instead!
Marx's theory still shines with truth: Xi May 4th, at 10:53am
Xinhua - Two centuries on, despite huge and profound changes in human society, the name of Karl Marx is still respected all over the world and his theory still shines with the brilliant light of truth, Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Friday.
Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks at a grand gathering in Beijing to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marx's birth.
Xi said Marx is the "teacher of revolution for the proletariat and working people all over the world, the main founder of Marxism, creator of Marxist parties, a pathfinder for international communism and the greatest thinker of modern times."
"Today, we hold this grand gathering with great veneration to mark the 200th anniversary of Marx's birth, to remember his great character and historic deeds and to review his noble spirit and brilliant thoughts," Xi said at the event.
''With noble ideals and no fear of difficulty or adversity, throughout his life, Marx devoted himself to perseveringly striving for the liberation of humanity, scaling the peak of thought in his pursuit of truth, and the unremitting fight to overturn the old world and establish a new one'', according to Xi.
''Marx is not only a great figure who bore the weight of the world, but also an ordinary person with a passion for life, who was sincere and true to his friends'', Xi said.
''The most valuable and influential spiritual asset that Marx left us is the scientific theory named after him -- Marxism. Like a spectacular sunrise, the theory illuminated the path of humanity's exploration of the law of history, and humanity's search for their own liberation'', Xi said.
"The thought and theory of Marx are of his times and go beyond his times," Xi said. "They are the essence of the spirit of that times and the essence of the spirit of all humanity."
Xi said Marxism is a scientific theory that reveals the rules of human society's development, in a creative manner.
Having developed the materialist conception of history and surplus value theory, Marx showed how humanity would leap from the realm of necessity, to the realm of freedom, and also showed the road for people to realize freedom and liberation, Xi said.
Marxism, the first ideology for the liberation of the people themselves, is a theory of the people.
"Marxism, for the first time, explored the path for humanity's freedom and liberation from the stance of the people, and pointed out the direction, with scientific theory, toward an ideal society with no oppression or exploitation, where every person would enjoy equality and freedom," Xi said.
Stressing that practicality is a prominent characteristic of Marxism that makes it different from other theories, Xi said Marxism is a theory of practices that directs the people to change the world.
It is an open theory that is constantly developing and always stands at the frontier of the times, Xi said.
"That is why it is always able to keep young, explore the new issues in the development of the times and respond to the new challenges for human society."
The general secretary said that over the 170 years since publication of The Communist Manifesto, Marxism had been spread around the world, unrivaled in the history of human ideology in terms of the breadth and depth of its influence.
After the end of World War II, a large number of socialist countries were established, Xi said, stressing that the founding of the People's Republic of China, especially, has greatly increased the socialist strength in the world.
"There might be setbacks in the development of socialism in the world, but the overall trend for human society's development has never changed, and it will never change," Xi said.
"Marxism has not only profoundly changed the world, but also China," Xi said.
The reverberations of the October Revolution in Russia brought Marxism-Leninism to China, pointing out the direction forward, offering a brand new choice for the Chinese people in their struggle to survive, and setting the scene for the birth of the CPC.
Since the CPC's birth, it has combined the fundamental principles of Marxism with the reality of the Chinese revolution and construction, transforming the Chinese nation from "the sick man of East Asia" to one who has stood up, by uniting and leading the people through long-term struggle.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only through socialism, can we save China," Xi said.
Since reform and opening up, the CPC has combined the fundamental principles of Marxism, with the reality of China's reform and opening up, and the nation who stood up, has grown rich.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only through socialism with Chinese characteristics, can we develop China," Xi said.
In the new era, the CPC again combined the fundamental principles of Marxism with the reality of China in this new era, uniting and leading the people in "under- taking the great struggle, building the great project, advancing the great cause and realizing the great dream."
The Chinese nation has come to embrace a tremendous transformation, as the one who has grown rich, now, is becoming strong.
"This tremendous transformation serves as cast iron proof that only by adhering to and developing socialism with Chinese characteristics, can we realize national rejuvenation," Xi said.
"It is perfectly right for history and the people to choose Marxism, as well as for the CPC to write Marxism on its own flag, to adhere to the principle of combining the fundamental principles of Marxism, with China's reality, and continuously adapt Marxism to the Chinese context and the times."
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China lifts 740 mln rural poor out of poverty since 1978 September 3rd, at 12:57pm
Xinhua - China lifted 740 million people in rural areas out of poverty from 1978 to 2017, roughly 19 million each year, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said on Monday.
The poverty ratio in rural areas dropped 94.4 percentage points during the same time period with an average annual decrease of 2.4 percentage points, according to the NBS.
NBS data shows that China's poverty relief achievements have contributed more than 70 percent to global poverty alleviation work, in the past 40 years.
The average annual income of rural residents in impoverished areas rose an average of 10.4 percent each year from 2012 to 2017, up 2.5 percentage points from the average for rural residents.
Over the past five years, over 68 million people were lifted out of poverty in China. The country aims to further lift 10 million people out of poverty this year and eradicate poverty by 2020.
China recently released guidelines on winning the battle against poverty in the next three years, in order to prepare the nation for eradicating poverty by 2020.
According to the guidelines, the impoverished people should be guaranteed food & clothing, and children from poor families should be guaranteed a 9-year compulsory education. Basic medical needs and living conditions of the impoverished, should also be guaranteed.
People whose annual income is lower than 2,300 yuan (337.3 U.S. dollars), are defined as living below the poverty line, in China.
Almost half of Russians see USSR collapse as shameful – poll January 17th, at 12:11pm
The collapse of the Soviet Union is considered a reason to be ashamed, by 45 percent of Russians, according to a recent opinion poll. The only option that scored higher, is Russia’s failure to eradicate poverty.
The poll, conducted in late 2018, by the Levada Center is its latest study of what Russians are proud and ashamed of, about their nation. The demise of the USSR, saw a rebound in popularity from a low point of 28 percent in mid-2015, and is at a level comparable with the late 1990s and early 2000s.
The only more popular answer is Russia’s failure to eradicate poverty, which was named as a reason to be ashamed, by 61 percent of the people polled. This answer has topped Levada’s polls, for decades.
Russians are also ashamed of fellow countrymen treating each other disrespectfully (37 percent), Russia’s failure to catch up economically with the Western powers (24 percent), the out- come of Mikhail Gorbachev’s reforms (24 percent), and Joseph Stalin’s reign of terror (21 percent).
On the opposite side of Russians’ national identity are the qualities and events, people are proud of.
Defeating Nazi Germany in World War II remains the one thing Russians are overwhelmingly proud of (87 percent).
There is also the role that the country played in space exploration – about half are proud to belong to a space pioneering nation.
The third most popular option is accepting Crimea (the breakaway former Ukrainian region) as part of Russia again, which is seen as a point of national pride, by 45 percent.
Many people are also proud of Russian literature, science, and martial prowess, Soviet-era industrialization and the best qualities of the Russian character, like resolve and patience.
A record 75 percent said Russia is definitely, or most likely, a great nation today, while 88 percent believe that it should be one.
There was no apparent correlation between wishing greatness for Russia and regretting the USSR’s collapse, the agency noted, suggesting that Russians expect a great nation to - first and foremost - provide social justice, and protection.
Sixty-two percent said the Russians are a great people.
Levada remarked that about 80 percent of the people polled, identified themselves as Russians.
When asked what makes them feel connected to their people, most respondents named national history (53 percent), Russia’s land (35 percent), their place of birth (33 percent), and the nature that they call their own (25 percent).
The formal national symbols, including the flag, the coat of arms, and the national anthem, was the least popular option (5 percent).
Interestingly, religion is a relatively small factor in Russian national identity (9 percent).
(Source - RT)
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Number of Russians who regret collapse of USSR hits 10-year high December 26th, 2017, at 7:20am
The number of Russians who regret the collapse of the Soviet Union has reached its highest level since 2009, with almost an equal share saying the event could have been avoided.
A public opinion poll conducted by the independent Levada Center in late November this year found that 58 percent of Russians now regret the collapse of the USSR. Twenty-five percent said they felt no regret about this, and 16 percent could not describe their feelings in one word.
When researchers asked those who regret the end of the USSR what the primary reasons were behind their sentiments, 54 percent said that they missed a single economic system, 36 percent said they had lost the feeling of belonging to a real superpower, 34 percent complained about the drop in mutual trust among ordinary people, and 26 percent said that the collapse had destroyed the ties between friends and relatives.
The same research showed that 52 percent of Russians think that the collapse of the USSR could have been avoided, 29 percent said that the event was absolutely inevitable, and 19 percent did not have a fixed opinion on the matter.
The share of those who regret the demise of the Soviet Union has risen continuously over the past decade, but in 2009 it was even higher than today – at 60 percent. The all-time high – 75 percent – was recorded in 2000.
President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly addressed the issue of the collapse of the USSR in his speeches. In an address to the Russian parliament in 2005 he called the event the greatest geopolitical disaster of the 20th century and a cause of major disruption for the Russian people. In September 2016, Putin said the Communist Party should have transformed the Soviet Union into a democratic state, rather than see it break into separate nations.
At the same time, Putin has always emphasized that he and other Russian officials have no plans to revive the USSR, and has expressed anger that people cannot accept this. He's also accused Western governments of deliberately confusing modern Russia with the USSR and harming the interests of ordinary people, on the pretense of preventing an imaginary threat.
Historian:Russia's October Revolution Was Inevitable, Relatively Bloodless November 10th, at 4:33pm by Ekaterina Blinova
The October Uprising of 1917 became the logical conclusion of the February Revolution, Michael J. Carley, a professor of history at the Universite de Montreal has told Sputnik. According to the academic, the Russian Revolution was inevitable and occurred because evolutionary processes of change to benefit the lives of ordinary people had failed.
"February 1917 marked the beginning of a revolutionary change in power in Russia, that was accomplished in October," Michael Jabara Carley, professor of history at the Université de Montréal and the author of "Silent Conflict: A Hidden History of Early Soviet-Western Relations,"told Sputnik, commenting on the 100th anniversary of the Great October Socialist Revolution.
"The tsarist order was bankrupt and doomed. Almost everyone at the time said so. The immediate cause of the bankruptcy was the Great War [The First World War]," the Canadian academic stressed, adding that "the result was calamity marked by millions of casualties, large territories lost and an economy thrown into chaos, by the unsustainable financial and economic demands of fighting a world war."
Russian Provisional Government: 'Neither Revolutionary, Nor Democratic'
The so-called February Revolution, which is regarded as a combination of a popular uprising with an elitist anti- monarchist plot, led to the abdication of Russian Emperor Nicholas II and the establishment of the Provisional Government.
Still, the Provisional Government"was neither revolutionary nor democratic,"the academic pointed out: The crux of the matter was that it was largely controlled by the "bourgeois" urban and rural elites and old tsarist establishment"that was opposed to the revolution and attempted to block its further development."
October Uprising Was Relatively Bloodless
The professor explained why, contrary to popular belief, the October Revolution of 1917 that took place on November 7 (October 25 in the Julian calendar) was relatively bloodless.
"Well, in the first instance because the Provisional Government was utterly discredited. It had no popular support. It was a head without a body. It could give orders or issue decrees, but had no power to enforce them. In a revolutionary period, power comes from the support of the insurgent masses and the Provisional Government had none,"Carley told Sputnik.
The professor suggested that 1917 could have been averted if old elites as well as their forebears had not blocked"political and economic evolutionary processes"in Russia.
'Provisional Government Became a Cork in the Bottle'
"The Provisional Government became a cork in the bottle holding back the revolution,"the historian said."The revolutionary masses in Petrograd [Saint Petersburg] and elsewhere put pressure on their socialist leaders to blow the cork out of the bottle…. It was the Bolsheviks who put themselves at the head of the mass movement & articulated its demands, essentially peace, bread and land."
He pointed out, however, that"the Bolsheviks themselves were not united on all the big issues and most importantly on the seizure of power in October (the Julian calendar)."
"I would propose that the Provisional Government collapsed of its own rot. The insurgent masses led by the Bolsheviks only had to kick it over,"Carley remarked.
Was the October Revolution of 1917 Inevitable?
"It is a question impossible to answer except in this way: popular revolutions come about because political and economic elites over time are too selfish to share wealth and power with the masses,"Carley responded."Like the tsarist autocracy, they treat the masses as a resource to be exploited and rung dry. When evolutionary processes of change fail, revolution is often the result."
According to the academic, it is wrong to think that such revolutions succeed "because of the evil genius and cruelty of a small revolutionary elite"
"They succeed because of mass support and effective, responsive leadership."
The question then arises as to whether it was possible to follow an evolutionary path, rather than go through a revolution.
"A revolution occurred because evolutionary processes of change to benefit the lives of ordinary people had failed,"the professor responded."Serfdom, inequality, exploitation, violence, continued unabated until 1917."
October 1917: 'Driver of Transformations Across the Globe'. Revisiting the October Revolution of 1917.
Addressing the 14th Annual Meeting of the Valdai Discussion Club, Russian President Vladimir Putin said that"the largely utopian social model and ideology" the Soviets tried to implement initially following the 1917 revolution became "a powerful driver of transformations across the globe, caused a major revaluation of development models, and gave rise to rivalry and competition, the benefits of which were mostly reaped by the West."
The Canadian professor disagrees that the term "utopian" could be used with regards to the "Communist model," for instance.
"Is free, public education for everyone, no matter what their class, nationality or religion, utopian? Is the elimination of illiteracy, utopian? Are women's rights, or universal health care, utopian? Was the desire to create a more equal society, socially, economically and politically, utopian?"Carley asked, adding"in fact, that Soviet society was eventually able to withstand and then to destroy almost single- handedly, the so-called invincible Nazi 'colossus.'"
Still, he believes that the 1917 revolution certainly was"a powerful driver of transformations"around the world since it"inspired successful revolutionary movements in China, Vietnam, Korea, and Cuba."
As Putin noted during his Valdai speech "many Western achievements of the 20th century were an answer to the challenge posed by the Soviet Union," such as"raising living standards, forming a strong middle class, reforming the labour market and the social sphere, promoting education, guaranteeing human rights, including the rights of minorities and women, overcoming racial segregation."
Red October: Allied Intervention and 'Beginning of Cold War'
The October Revolution became the trigger for the Civil War (1917-1922) and prompted the Allied intervention of major foreign powers in Russia.
The Canadian academic pointed out that the October Uprising "produced an immediate violent reaction by the United States, France and Britain, whose elites attempted to overthrow the Soviet government."
"The foreign intervention against Soviet Russia fed a civil war and exacerbated the violence of the counter-revolution by many times over,"Carley said."On its own, the former tsarist elite could never have mounted such violent resistance to the October Revolution."
The professor underscored that after their failure to overthrow the Soviets,"the Western powers spent the next 70 years, with the exception of a truce between 1941-1945, in trying to harm or bring down the USSR and all those revolutions to which it had given birth."
According to the academic, the Cold War started in October (November) 1917.
"Just ask the Chinese, Vietnamese, Cubans, or N. Koreans about the frightful price of resistance to US and Western hegemony,"Carley remarked."Or for that matter, we might ask, if we could, the soldiers, sailors and workers of Soviet Russia, what price they had to pay, to defend their revolution."
(Source - Sputnik)
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Communist leader dispels new Russian budget as "oligarch orientated" October 28th, 2017 Fort Russ News - KtovKurse translated by Inessa Sinchougova
Communist Party leader, Gennady Zyuganov, called the draft federal budget for 2018-2020, "a budget of the oligarchy", which will increase stagnation and poverty.
On Friday October 27th, the State Duma considered the first reading of the draft budget for 2018 for the planning period 2019-2020. According to the draft of the Ministry of Finance, the budget deficit in 2018 will be 1.3 trillion rubles or 1.37% of GDP, in 2019 it will be 867 billion rubles or 0.84% of GDP, and in 2020 - 960 billion rubles or 0.87% of GDP.
Such a budget Zyuganov considers "a budget for the oligarchy, where further stagnation and deepening of poverty in the country will occur."
In his opinion, the draft budget does not meet the current challenges and can only aggravate the split in Russian civil society.
The Communist Party leader stressed that incomes and expenditures are constantly declining. Zyuganov noted that "in plain language" this means that the "share of the national pie" created by the working people is constantly shrinking in the budget.
Zyuganov's main issue with the budget was the reduction in government expenses for 14 out of 13 articles listed within. He explained that for eight of these articles, expenses are simply cut, and for four other articles, a small increase is offset by inflation, and as a result, real costs are below the ones prophesized.
According to Zyuganov, the current budget policy "creeps of the old Gaidar-Chubais reforms. It does not smell of modernization, nor a breakthrough for the future."
"I do not know why the president has not reacted to this helplessness, to this impotence of the financial and economic blockade on behalf of the government," Zyuganov said.
President Vladimir Putin does not oversee forthcoming bills until they pass all the stages of parliamentary negotiation - that is until his signature is required. It remains to be said that a majority of Russia's parliament and governmental organs, are liberal representatives, both economically and culturally, whereby it is only the President that stops certain bills being passed.
Without looking at the document in detail (which is not yet available to the public) it makes sense to assume that the Communist Party leader has every right to become concerned at this early stage.
Zyuganov's Communist Party enjoys the second most popular rating in the Russian political sphere, after United Russia (Vladimir Putin.)
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And a Record Number of Russians Want Socialism Back !!!
First published in Komsomolskaya Pravda Translated by Kristina Kharlova
The number of those nostalgic for the Soviet Union, is now growing steadily.
According to the findings of sociologists, 56% of respondents now express regret for the collapse of the Soviet state.
A majority of Russians regret the collapse of the Soviet Union, and do not mind if it's restored — conclude the sociologists of "Levada-centre".
2016 sees a record number of respondents nostalgic for the Soviet Union, in the whole history of public opinion surveys.
At the same time, the percentage of those who don't long for the Union, decreases over time: if, in November of last year it was 37%, today only 28% do not feel any pity.
58% of Russians would like a socialist system and the Soviet Union to be restored, and 31% say they don't want the Soviet Union back.
Over half of respondents, 51%, believe that it was still possible to save the country in 1991 while 33% of Russians say the collapse was 'inevitable'.
Experts, meanwhile, note that those most nostalgic for the Soviet Union don't yearn so much for the Soviet ideology, as for the stability, justice, confidence in the future, secure jobs, free education, medical care and housing.
Serbia:Mass anti-NATO demonstrations silenced Nothing has been the same since NATO brutally bombed Yugoslavia 17 years ago. The 5th column, trained by NATO, took over the destroyed country to continue the job that the West had started.
The economy collapsed, the country was ripped apart, and the Army, dismissed.
Year by year, malicious plans brainstormed by NATO, and executed by the government, are pushing all of the Balkans into the deep maw of the West's 'modern' imperialism.
The latest move was the Agreement with NATO about logistics. Parliament has approved, and the President has signed, an agreement which gives NATO soldiers immunity and freedom of movement on the territory of Serbia. The same people who killed thousands of innocent Serb civilians are now given freedom and immunity. NATO personnel rule the roost in Serbia
NATO personnel are exempt from paying taxes, VAT and/or customs duties. The adoption of the Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), lets NATO soldiers use Serbia's infrastructure, with free transit across the whole territory of Serbia, as well as protection from the law -- being given 'special status' while staying in Serbian territory.
However, although almost two decades have passed since NATO's cruel attack, most Serbs have not forgotten how important freedom is -- which is the main problem for the ruling elite.
In the mainstream media, news about signing the agreement with NATO, was published as small & irrelevant. In a couple of sentences, mainstream journalists wrote about it, as if it was tomorrow's weather forecast, but they couldn't fool people.
Boiling situation hidden by Government
The situation was boiling. A few patriotic parties and war veterans managed to organize a protest -- & expected no more than a thousand people in Belgrade, to show their disagreement with the ruling party's decisions.
On the 20th February, more than 15,000 Serbs, mostly youth, came onto the Belgrade streets to join in with the protesters. Even the police were surprised, quickly trying to reinforce -- fearing nonverbal shows of disagreement.
The mainstream media weren't at all interested in massive protests in the capital city. They just reported, after the protest, that there were only a couple of hundred demonstrators.
Amongst all media, just one, the alternative patriotic website, Srbin info, sent reporters to the vicinity, to cover the whole protest.
It was the only media that had pictures and videos of the massive protests, showing the huge number of protesters.
During the protest, over 2,000 readers per second were following their live streaming of the demonstrations. Each minute, their website was gaining more followers.
Just a couple of minutes after the end of the peaceful protest, huge cyber-attacks began.
The weak website couldn't defend itself from the biggest attacks in its history, & the web- site eventually crashed. Attacks continued for 24 hours, never letting the website repair.
The only possible source of the attacks on the website & freedom of the speech, is the ruling elite. There is no one else who would be able to manage such strong attacks.
The main problem for the alternative, free media in Serbia is that the web providers, most of them belonging to the SBB company, part of the Soros foundation, don't want to reveal who was behind the attacks. However, some opposition forces, also attacked by hackers, discovered that the IP address of the hacker belongs to one of the directors of SBB company.
It is also interesting that 25% of web providers and some mainstream media in Serbia - belong to David Petraeus, former director of the CIA.
Despite their crashed website, Srbin info reporters managed to find way to send the real story & used Facebook to spread the truth. A video showing the masses of people protesting, was viewed by over 1,700,000 Facebook users --- a huge number for Serbia, with its 7 million population.
For 48 hours after the attack, the website was closed.
Thanks to its loyal readers, who appreciate Srbin info's fight for freedom of speech, donations were collected to make a new website, with better protection.
But the problem of having a neutral web provider who will not sabotage the website -- after orders from the Government -- still exists. A much worse problem.... is that the once proud and honorable Serbia, is now under the boots of imperialists.
LEN RE-ELECTED - VICTORY FOR LEFT!
"Serving you, our members, is the greatest privilege of my working life. I'm proud to have stood shoulder- to-shoulder with you in your struggles and proud to have been asked by so many, to continue to fight for you"
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The Corbyn Supporters From Hell - Attila The Stockbroker,15th Oct 2015 at The Blue Boar Hotel, Maldon, Essex, UK
ONE UNION
Two weeks before Brexit, the African Union announced a new single African passport that permits holders to enter any of the 54 AU member states without a visa – an interesting turn in African history which NO-ONE in the West knows or cares about ! What a stunning reflection of how far our mindset and media are, from the 'world community' we say we love.
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ADAM JOHANNES, CO-CONVENOR, PEOPLE'S ASSEMBLY
“Most people under 40 have never been a member of a trade union. So unions are irrelevant, right? Wrong. Unions are more relevant than ever before. With in- work poverty, zero hours contracts and precarious employment, trade unions urgently need to make inroads into the private sector where the majority of us work, but a majority are still un-unionised.”
3 recent campaigns show how this might be done -
1. BETTER THAN ZERO
"Better than Zero" is an exciting campaign launched last year by the Scottish TUC to combat employers using zero-hours contracts. It is run by young people for young people to take on the issue of insecure work. Its activists are mostly in their teens or twenties. The campaign calls upon an older generation not to stand by while a generation of young people are forced into insecure work.
It has responded to tip off from employees in workplaces charging staff for training or uniforms, and bars and restaurants where workers tips are taken by the company. It's fought against people routinely expected to work additional late hours at short notice, with little or no thought given to how they'll get home & whether they will be safe.
The campaign uses direct action, stunts and creative protests such as targeting bars and restaurants with 'flash mob choirs', activists and former staff posing as customers, before each stand up in a restaurant to make speeches while other activists leaflet out- side, Halloween funeral marches on exploitative employers, or, memorably, activists clad in chemical-spill clean up garb placing several popular bars & restaurants in 'quarantine', for exploitative work practices. A recent campaign victory saw restaurant chain Las Iguanas end a policy of deducting money from staff tips.
2. SPORTS DIRECT
Unite has waged a dynamic fightback against Sports Direct including pickets of over 30 stores across the UK, occupations, direct action such as the unfurling of a #SportsDirectShame banner by Newcastle United fans at the club owned by Sports Direct boss, Mike Ashley, other banner drops from bridges, shareholder action, and a social media campaign,
Sports Direct is Britain's biggest sportswear company. It made over a billion in profits last year, but the majority of its workers agency staff are on zero hour contracts with no holiday or sick pay, and no guaranteed work from one week to the next. It has been called more 'workhouse' than workplace with intense surveillance and searches of staff, a culture of fear, bullying and intimidation rife.
Unite's campaign had forced the issue of its Victorian working conditions into national media & a company review. Unite demands all staff are re-employed on permanent contracts on a living wage. So far they have won a pay rise for staff and the company is now being investigated by HM Revenue & Customs after the union exposed it for effectively paying under the minimum wage.
3. PIZZA EXPRESS
Unite scored a victory against Pizza Express after exposing and ending the company deducting a proportion of staff's hard earned tips as an 'admin fee', recruiting new members. The campaign involved union activists going into Pizza Express branches to speak to waiting staff, weekly pickets, handing out hundreds of flyers with customers given a ‘scrap the admin fee’ postcard to leave with their cash tips, and finally a 'meal of justice' when protesters went into a restaurant, enjoyed a meal and when the bill came, one person stood up and told customers about the admin fee while others handed out postcards. Customers often respond with spontaneous applause.
We need to think creatively of how to bring politics into the workplace whether collections for refugees in Calais, foodbanks or local homeless, organising delegations from our work to local protests, or even setting up People's Assembly networks with likeminded people we work with.
Cardiff People's Assembly is part of The People's Assembly Against Austerity, a UK anti-cuts network sponsored by eight trade unions. Locally we have worked with Unison defending our city's library service & PCS to organise solidarity with museum workers, we will be supporting Unite Community's day of action against benefit sanctions. With much of our nation's workforce unorganised in their workplace in unions, joining movements like ours can boost people's confidence to stand up to their employers and build workplace organisation.
In the 1980s Thatcher declared war on the unions --- as a prelude to letting the market rip through society --- transforming us into a highly unequal low pay, low skill economy. The assault on the 'social wage' means we now have the highest private rents, highest energy bills, highest rail fares, and most expensive university education in the EU. Now the Trade Union Bill aims to take out a key part of the resistance to extend the cuts, privatisation and outsourcing agenda and shift even more power and wealth from the 99% to the 1%.
Our economy is dominated by low paid jobs. Low pay makes people insecure. A low pay economy and tax avoiding corporations make it hard to invest in public services. Joining a union is one way to fight back.
Profit Is The Only Concern For Railway Privateers 2016 Thursday 29TH DEC
The only way to have a public transport system worthy of the name is to have a fully nationalised railway,says GORDON MARTIN
All things transport have been making the news in Scotland for a number of months and the signs are this isn’t going to change in the dark winter months ahead.
Scotland’s railways have been subjected to an unprecedented level of scrutiny and criticism with opposition politicians, media columnists and some trade union officials calling for Nicola Sturgeon to sack her Transport Minister, Humza Yousaf MSP.
In my view the roots of the public’s dissatisfaction with Scotland’s railways goes back to the Scottish government’s ill-conceived decision to award the ScotRail franchise to a state-owned rail operator.
Unfortunately for passengers and the ScotRail workforce, the state in question was not our own — and the Netherlands now benefits from profits made by its state company, Abellio, out of ScotRail.
A public-sector bid from Scotland was not allowed when the franchise was awarded to Abellio for a 10-year period. With profit the first and only concern of the profiteers at Abellio, a major dispute with Scotland’s biggest rail union RMT was highly predictable.
Abellio’s attack on the role of the guard on our trains brought a summer of discontent as industrial action spread across much of the Scottish rail network.
The Scottish government quickly showed its true colours. The normally very assured and competent First Minister committed a monumental blunder when she disgracefully inferred the strike was only about who pushed a button to open and close train doors.
While the SNP government very often claims to be on the side of working-class communities, it remains very much a political party wedded to capitalism. The First Minister should have taken the trouble to speak to disabled passengers or those travelling on Scotland’s trains who feel vulnerable in any way about how crucial the role of the guard is in making their journey a safer, more relaxing experience.
Thankfully the Scottish government and Abellio ScotRail finally saw sense and a negotiated settlement was reached which was favourable to RMT and which will see safety-trained guards remain in place.
Following on from our successful efforts to Keep The Guard on the Train, RMT has launched a high- profile “Safer Scottish Trains” campaign designed to ensure trains, stations & rail infrastructure in general are properly resourced and managed to ensure the best possible service is delivered.
Everyone, in particular disabled people, should be able to travel on a 21st-century rail network without having to check ahead days in advance to ensure staff will be in place to assist them.
At the same time, Westminster and the European Union have also intervened in a negative way which may have serious repercussions for rail workers and passengers in the years ahead.
Earlier this month Chris Grayling, Transport Secretary in Theresa May’s rotten Tory government, delivered a speech which potentially takes the rail industry back to the complete fragmentation foisted upon the people of Britain by the hapless government of John Major in the 1990s.
Grayling now seeks to reintroduce “competition” into rail infrastructure, maintenance and repairs.
Inevitably this will eventually lead to the complete break-up of Network Rail. The centralised standards implemented by this public-sector organisation will be discarded and profit and loss will become the decisive factor in deciding the standards for maintaining the rail infrastructure. This is a frightening scenario with potentially deadly outcomes and RMT will fight this with everything we have.
The latest plans for railways across the EU, the ultimate bosses’ club, are contained within the Fourth Railway Package which MEPs are voting on. These proposals make it mandatory to put rail passenger services out to competitive tender. With the Scottish government recently beginning to engage with the rail unions and others regarding a public-sector bid for the ScotRail contract, the 4th Railway Package underlines how fragile and fleeting this public-sector bid could ultimately be.
Scotland’s ferry sector also had a fair amount of publicity in the last year or so, with RMT engaged in a high-profile, long-running and ultimately successful campaign to keep CalMac ferries in public ownership.
RMT stands by our assertion that the Clyde and Hebridean ferry service did not have to go out to tender under the Teckal exemption.
Unfortunately, the Scottish government are keen to be seen as good Europeans, despite the negative impact on the Scottish people, and meekly went along with directives from the EU.
The uncertainty for island communities and the stress for the CalMac workforce while their future was unclear, was not high on the government’s agenda.
Unfortunately it looks highly likely that the workforce and the islanders on the Northern Isles are about to be put through the same uncertainty as their counterparts on the west coast.
The government is once again meekly following diktats from Brussels by putting the Northern Isles ferry service out to a competitive tendering process, despite the people of Britain voting to leave the EU, including a sizeable section of the Scottish working class.
RMT has a clear and principled position which is to insist that the Northern Isles contract is brought back into public ownership forthwith.
We demand an immediate end to the exploitation of eastern European seafarers. These workers, employed on a Scottish government contract, are being paid wages at a derisory rate while being denied the protection of a trade union agreement with wages and conditions covered by collective bargaining agreements.
As part of our ongoing Save our Seafarers campaign, we have highlighted this disgraceful fact to the media and the public with our slogan SNP — Ships of Shame.
This is causing the government and, in particular, the Transport Minister a great deal of embarrassment. I make no apologies for this and I sincerely hope the embarrassment will lead to action before too much longer.
It is clear to everyone, with the possible exception of right-wing profiteering zealots, that the only way to have a public transport system worthy of the name is to have a fully nationalised railway, properly resourced, with adequate staffing levels --- together with a publicly owned ferry operator, working exclusively on behalf of ferry users and the Scottish government, & money raised reinvested --- instead of lining the pockets of private shareholders.
Gordon Martin is Scottish regional organiser of the RMT.
(source - Morning Star)
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Tory aid-dumping revelation means the money should be seized and used by Mike Sivier
The worst part of this is, it suggests that people who said the International Aid budget could be used in better ways, were right.
The Times reports that the Tories have been ‘dumping’ billions of pounds in aid into shady World Bank funds, to sit unused indefinitely – in order to "keep up the appearance" of meeting the government’s commitment to donating 0.7% of the UK’s GDP in foreign aid.
According to the Times, at least £9 billion has been transferred like this in the past 5 years. Rather than helping developing countries, the money, which is spread across over 200 different bank accounts, simply sits there – doing nothing except rack up World Bank ‘administration fees’.
UK International Development Secretary Priti Patel’s only qualification for her job appears to be the fact that she had previously wanted to get rid of it and the funding it oversees. This seems to be the standard Tory qualification for any ministerial role that is supposed to help people – Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt infamously wrote a book, before becoming Health Secretary, that called for abolition of the ’60-year-old mistake’ of the NHS.
Clearly, to a Tory, maintaining the appearance of doing something is far more important than actually doing it – especially if it helps you put cash into the bank accounts of your backers and allies and ideally while you get rid of the very thing you’re supposed to be looking after. If you hear Tories say ‘reform’, run for cover – or better yet, get the pitchforks out.
Source: Keeping up appearances: aid-dumping shows Tories care for PR, not people The SKWAWKBOX
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Left Looks To Unite To Protect Its Power Base CHARLEY ALLAN
The Labour right was desperate to see the back of “Red Len,” as the tabloids call him.
But Len won his victory. Now’s the perfect time to join Unite, with full membership costing just £3.50 a week, reduced to 50p for the unemployed.
The AWL and its allies may have won the national committee battle, but they won’t win the OMOV war --- if the movementists get organised.
A new current called Opening Momentum has rallied round the point that anti-OMOVers had denied members their advertised right to “vote in national-level elections.”
And it’s crucial that every member who really believes in the fabled “new kind of politics” turns up to their local branch meetings - if they have them - to halt plans for a parallel party.
This is bigger than Momentum. We need to see much more direct democracy in Labour itself, although there will always be resistance from those who benefit most from the delegate system.
There are literally hundreds of thousands of new Labour members and Momentum’s top priority --- should making sure their voice is heard at next year’s party conference.
The Labour left can’t afford to be crushed again on the conference floor, as happened this year.
While Momentum was dazzling everyone with its World Transformed free festival, right faction Labour First was distributing fliers to let delegates know when and where vital votes were taking place.
Critically, Momentum must:- have slates of candidates ready when local constituency parties select conference delegates in thecoming months.
The new left movement needs to get serious if it wants to win the looming electoral battles within Labour, the trade unions and the grassroots.
Defending, strengthening and expanding this power base at the ballot box, will take back the leadership, and keep the movement fighting fit for the general election.
• Chat to Charley on Twitter: @charleyallan.
(source - Morning Star)
A New Lucas Plan For The Future by David King
The ideas pioneered by the Lucas workers are just as, or more, relevant now than in the 1970s, and there are strong political similarities in the situation.
As in the ’70s, we have an economic crisis caused by unjust economic policies and the failure of successive governments’ industrial strategy.
As usual, this has hit the working class hardest, and anger over this is being channelled into racism against immigrants. Now, the environmental effects of industrial capitalism are far more evident than 40 years ago, already creating wars, militarisation and widespread concern about insecurity.
Finally, introduction of new technologies threatens structural unemployment on a scale considerably greater than the ’70s.
The Tory government’s response to the economic and political crisis, despite continuing to publicly espouse neoliberal principles, looks a lot like a classic Keynesian economic stimulus package.
In the last few months it has made decisions to go ahead with a range of industrial infrastructure megaprojects — Hinkley C, fracking, HS2 and the Heathrow third runway, as well as pressing ahead with spending £200 billion on Trident renewal.
A key element in the case for all these projects is the jobs that they will generate or preserve, although the jobs estimates are bound to be inflated, while the price tag will be massively underestimated.
Compared to the ’70s, far fewer jobs will be created in this way because, due to automation and mechanisation, they are all highly capital rather than labour-intensive.
The Lucas Aerospace workers’ idea of socially useful production suggests a far better way forward.
Even in the early phase of the environmental movement, before most socialists realised the significance of these issues, the Lucas Plan acknowledged that protecting the environment is part of the concept of socially useful production.
With the exception of HS2, all the new projects are environmental anathema, and the damage that project would do to the English countryside and people’s homes and communities, for the sake of saving 30 minutes of executives’ time, makes it emblematic of neoliberalism.
The working-class people who voted for Brexit are demanding jobs and regeneration of their communities, but these industrial vanity projects are not the solution.
Now is the moment to realise the proposals of the Campaign Against Climate Change Trade Union Group (Million Climate Jobs Campaign), which is often seen as a successor to the Lucas Plan.
We should be investing in renewable energy, home insulation, public transport etc as part of the international trade union initiative of Just Transition, ie transition to a low-carbon economy with job protection for workers in industries that need to be phased out.
Imagine what could be achieved in regional economic renewal and environmental benefits with the Trident billions.
But exactly how that money should be spent should not be decided by economic planners alone.
One of the great strengths of the Lucas Plan was that it came from the bottom up, from workers, not managers.
Recognising that they could not, by themselves, define what people need, the Lucas workers began to work with various regional communities to develop “popular planning for social need.”
In London, the Greater London Council created technology development networks that involved users, for example disabled people, in technology design.
These traditions of bottom-up local planning have been continued by various citizens’ local planning initiatives, such as Just Space in London, and would be vital to a democratic solution to the crises.
The current economic and environmental crises are symptoms of a deeper crisis in the industrial capitalist mode of production, and they demand a fundamental rethink of how we produce the basic things that people need for a decent life.
One of the less well-remembered, but crucial aspects of the Lucas Plan was the workers’ struggle against the automation and deskilling of their work with computer-controlled machinery, a struggle shared with trade unionists around the world in that period.
As Phil Asquith of the Lucas Combine puts it, “Harold Wilson’s ‘white heat of the technological revolution’ was burning up workers’ jobs.’
The continuation of this trend over the last 40 years is a major source of the jobless recoveries and income polarisation that are creating the “squeezed middle” of angry, Daily Mail- reading, Brexit voters.
Forecasts suggest that digital technology will eliminate half the jobs in the economy over the next 20 years, but its track record shows that it creates far fewer new jobs to replace them.
One response to this that has become popular on the left is the belief that automation will usher in a post- capitalist society, if we can only feed those useless human workers with basic income.
This is a complex argument, but one thing for sure is that this was not the Lucas workers’ philosophy.
Instead of: “Demand Full Automation, Demand Universal Basic Income, Demand the Future,” they would have reminded us that the romance of high-technology leads to what historian of technology David Noble aptly called: “Progress without people.”
The Lucas workers’ slogan would likely have been: “Demand Democratic Control of Technology, Demand Socially Useful Production, Demand Equality and Sustainability.”
They were very clear that the idea of socially useful production is also about how things are produced.
There is no point in socially useful products if they are made in a way that alienates and deskills the workers who produce them.
They went on to design “human-centred technologies,” in which the point was to use and develop workers’ skills, rather than design them out of the production process.
A skills and people-based, more labour-intensive approach is, in the era of Brexit and environmental crisis, a much better way to create a socially just, sustainable economy than old-fashioned, capital- intensive high-tech mega projects. This is the agenda we will be discussing in Birmingham today.
(source - the Morning Star)
Construction Workers Can’t Be Expected To Work Into Their Sixties by Brian Rye (source - The Star)
British governments seem to think one of two things about construction workers: they're either superhuman, or they don’t give a toss about them. That would be the logical conclusion, given the raise in the pension age, to 68.
With the state pension age due to rise to 67 by 2026 and 68 by 2044, our political elites seem to believe that we are breeding a race of human beings with quite exceptional physical capabilities.
While professional sportspeople are pretty much done by their mid-thirties, with their strength, speed and stamina leeching away by the day, the British construction worker - if you believe our politicians - lives in a world that defies conventional science.
Despite the early starts, the exposure to the elements, the heavy lifting, the long hours, the poor diet & susceptibility to minor injury, these lions of the labour force are all going to get their telegram from the king - because the stats say we’re all living longer.
Sadly, if you have a shred of common sense you will immediately know this is not true.
Construction workers are the same as any other human being. Like professional sportspeople, they can feel their physical abilities start to wane from their mid-thirties.
The only difference being: construction workers have to stay in the game. & not only that, given the increase in the pensionable age, the game just went into extra time.
Empathy is a wonderful characteristic for a human being to possess because it creates understanding and caring for others.
So we have to ask ourselves, as our besuited, overweight politicians sit back in their comfy chairs before skipping off to their subsidised three-course meal in the House of Commons - with a glass of wine or two — how much empathy are they feeling with their compatriots in construction?
Can they imagine the freezing mornings, the hours of standing up, the repetitive physical work or the greasy chips for lunch? It would seem not.
Recent research carried out by the TUC, in a report called Postponing the Pension, shows that a significant proportion of the population won’t reach the pensionable age of 68 in any fit state to enjoy their retirement.
The results show that half a million workers within five years of the state pension have had to leave work for medical reasons, and that nearly half of 60 to 64-year-olds stopped working before their official retirement age.
This is why Ucatt is currently trying to get the Labour Party to support policies that would mean a future Labour government would introduce a flexible pension age for physically demanding professions.
Construction work is hugely physically demanding because it involves prolonged standing, highly repetitive work, heavy lifting, working with the hands lifted to shoulder height or higher, and working with the back twisted or bent forward. It can lead to musculoskeletal disorder, cardiovascular disease and long-term sickness absence.
These work conditions and their effects need to be factored into the calculation of a pensionable age. It is only fair.
At 60, most politicians are on a few company boards, are picking up consultancies, maybe writing a book and reaping the benefits of a lifetime’s work.
The current presidential candidates in the US are 68 (Hillary Clinton) and 70 (Donald Trump) - beneficiaries of a lifetime of comfort, good food, little or no physical exertion and excellent healthcare on demand.
These individuals see no reason to retire - they’re feeling fine. Construction workers often aren’t feeling fine.
We all know that one in four people in Britain will now live to 100 — but what about the other three? At what age will they be checking out? And what jobs are they doing?
According to figures from the government’s own Office for National Statistics, doctors and accountants are outliving builders and cleaners, by as much as eight years.
Men in professional occupations can expect to live to 80, almost eight years longer than those in unskilled jobs, whose life expectancy is 72.7. So people are not all the same - shock, horror! Comparing the accountant to the construction worker is comparing apples with oranges - and yet our governments conveniently ignore this.
Our ageing population and the fears surrounding the viability of the state pension in the future has caused the political class to legislate in a heavy- handed, insensitive and unsophisticated way.
The phrase “we’ve all got to work longer” is bandied about by those sitting comfortably behind a desk. For those leading a more active life, this phrase is just a plain, old-fashioned threat.
To quote ex-Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn: “Living longer doesn’t mean we are able to work longer in physically demanding jobs like that of the firefighter, police officer or paramedic. And it’s not just in the emergency services. Construction workers, care workers and prison officers cannot be expected to work into their sixties. We need a flexible pension age that allows people to work for as long as they want to.”
Ucatt’s campaign plainly states “68 is too late.” It’s a campaign that needs to be fought to a victory - for the sake of thousands of British workers. We need to present our case, find broad support and build empathy within the country. And we have to find acceptance that it may cost us all a little bit more while we’re of working age.
Otherwise we will all be using another well- known phrase: “flogging a dead horse.”
We’ll leave the last words to Mr Corbyn: “If we want dignity for all in old age, then it has to be paid for.”
Brian Rye is acting general secretary of Ucatt.
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Britain’s workers feel stressed and insecure (originally in the Morning Star) by Carolyn Jones
The UK's 31 million workers are among the most insecure, stressed and unhappiest in Europe.
No wonder! According to the latest report by the Institute of Employment Rights (IER), the evidence is damning.
On average, UK workers work more hours per week, more days per year, more years before retirement -- after which, they receive lower levels of pension -- than most of their European counterparts.
In comparison to other European workers they generally receive less education and training, and (because of lack of employer investment) their productivity is lower.
They get fewer paid holidays than almost all European comparators and their pay is so low that a great proportion of them are in poverty --- with the state subsidising employers’ low wages.
And it doesn’t end there. The UK has a high proportion of its workforce in so-called “self- employment,” agency work, temporary work, and/or on zero-hours contracts.
It has more part-time workers who want full- time jobs, than other European countries.
UK workers have less entitlement to redundancy pay, sick pay, and maternity pay, than most European workers.
Workers’ rights to remedies for unfair dismissal and discrimination are set low and have been made practically unenforceable by the imposition of high access fees.
In the UK, unlike most European countries, there is no ministry of labour, no labour inspectorate and a negligible complement of health and safety inspectors.
All this in the fifth richest nation in the world. It is obscene. So what’s to be done?
An excellent starting point is the establishment of Jeremy Corbyn’s Workplace 2020 initiative. Launched in May 2016, the aim of the project is to start a national conversation on what work should be like in 2020.
Under the chairmanship of Ian Lavery, shadow trade union minister, the Labour Party wants to hear the good, the bad and the ugly stories about working life in Britain.
On a recently launched website people can submit their comments, complaints and suggestions on a range of workplace issues.
So whether it’s job security, pay and pensions, training and apprenticeships, diversity and equality, trade unions or health and safety that raises your passion, there’s scope to feed into the policy agenda.
Once again the Labour leadership team is turning out to the country for ideas rather than assuming it knows best in the corridors of power.
Labour is already committed to raising the minimum wage, banning zero-hours contracts, ensuring workers are given access to justice, and giving temporary workers the same rights as permanent staff. But it recognises that more needs to be done -- not just to secure fairness at work but to rebuild the UK's economy and industry.
So, at the request of Jeremy Corbyn and Ian Lavery, the IER drafted a contribution to the review, using 15 of its academic and legal experts. At the heart of our proposals is the need to ensure the voice of the UK’s 31 million workers is heard & respected -- in government (via a ministry of labour), in the economy (via a national economic forum) and in industry (via sectoral employment commissions).
The manifesto offers 25 major policy recommendations for consideration.
It proposes changing the way in which working conditions are regulated. It moves responsibility for workplace regulation from legislation to collective bargaining.
It calls for the repeal of the Trade Union Act 2016, the removal of tribunal fees and the introduction of fundamental & enforceable rights for workers, enforceable in a labour court with the assistance of labour inspectors.
The Thatcher concept of individual rights for individual workers has to go. It does little for workers, it’s costly to enforce and it fails to deliver fairness at work.
IER’s manifesto offers a system based on the collective voice of workers, negotiating collectively agreed standards & delivering collectively enforced fairness at work.
A new framework of labour law should be built on the following 10 points:
A ministry of labour
A national economic forum
Sectoral employment commissions
Sectoral collective agreements and wages councils’ orders
Workplace bargaining
A strengthened framework of statutory employment rights
Labour courts and labour inspectors
Employment tribunals
Stronger support for freedom of association and collective rights
The right to strike
Carolyn Jones is director of the Institue of Employment Rights
A manifesto for labour law: Towards a comprehensive revision of workers’ rights --- is available from IER. Go to www.ier.org.uk for more information.
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Why Labour is putting energy reform at the heart of its green agenda Jeremy Corbyn
No issue better connects the environment to people’s lives than energy. To deliver clean, affordable electricity,we need to change our undemocratic system of supply.
We are on course for a climate catastrophe. 2016 is set to be the hottest year on record. Unless the Paris agreement’s target of limiting the rise in temperatures by 1.5C is met, heatwaves like that in 2003, which killed tens of thousands of people in Europe, will become the norm. And that's before considering rising sea levels and desertification, that will sink cities, and kill and displace millions, or the fact that the Earth has already lost half its wildlife, in the past 40 years.
The task for politicians is to propose real solutions to the single most important issue facing humanity. Too often, the environment is considered a matter for scientists, enthusiasts & activists. To increase public understanding and energise the political debate, we need more than facts – we need a programme that resonates with people’s every- day experiences, offering not just warnings, but opportunities and improvement.
No issue better connects the environment to people’s lives than energy. In Britain today, 7 million households struggle to pay their bills because of spiralling costs, while the big six energy companies have seen their profits rise by more than tenfold since 2007. The energy market is not just expensive, inefficient and polluting – it is, above all, undemocratic.
In order to deliver clean, affordable heating and electricity we need to change the whole system of energy supply. When energy is driven by the needs of people, it will be greener – because saving the planet is in the interests of everyone.
That is why I am today announcing a bold new set of policies which will pioneer a democratic, community- led system of energy supply. Over the course of the next parliament, we will use public investment and legislation to promote the creation of over 200 local energy companies, giving towns, cities & localities the powers they need to drive a clean, locally accountable energy system with public, not-for-profit companies.
At the heart of this policy will be a new generation of community energy co-operatives. We will create 1,000 of these co-operatives with the support of a network of regional development banks, and legislate to give them the right to sell energy directly to the communities they serve.
At the same time as building a new publicly run, locally accountable energy system, we will invest in the high quality homes & insulation needed to make Britain environmentally sustainable. We will create a National Home Insulation programme to insulate at least 4m homes to energy efficiency standard B or C. In the private rented sector, we will set compulsory standards at the same level & end the misery of cold rented accommodation. This would save millions of people money on their bills as well as saving energy that is currently wasted on poorly insulated homes.
In order to have any hope of keeping the rise in temperature to 2C – let alone meeting our Paris agreement target of 1.5C – we need to keep 80% of fossil fuels in the ground. This can and must be done. Scotland is already on course to generate 100% of its electricity by renewables, & Britain has an ample supply of wind & water. In government, I'll commit to generating 65% of Britain’s electricity from these sources by 2030.
All of these measures will create secure, skilled employment for hundreds of thousands of people. As part of our transition to a low-carbon economy, we estimate that we will create 316,000 jobs in wind, solar and wave power. We'll use a £500bn national investment programme, with a National Investment Bank and a network of regional development banks, to ensure that these jobs and opportunities are created in places where they are most needed – in coastal towns and areas with high unemployment.
Too often, environmental catastrophe is explained in the same terms as an asteroid hitting the earth. But the problems and the solutions are political – they are about the prioritisation of profit over the needs of people and, at the heart of it all, a lack of democracy in how decisions are made. By democratising our energy supply, and giving people power over their own destinies, we can rebuild and transform Britain so that no one and no community, is left behind.
_________________________
Together --- Stronger!
Change, when it comes, will not come from Westminster. The campaign to save our NHS must become a visible reality on every high street and a priority for Labour members.
The NHS is at breaking point, and as Keep Our NHS Public secretary John Lister says: “by 2020 it will all be over.”
To reverse the damage of four more years of A&E closures, outsourced or pared-down services and reduced access, could verge on the impossible.
MPs who obsess over the need to attract Tory voters may find that the champions who saved a local A&E win more hearts and minds than a lorryload of anti-immigration mugs ever could.
________________________________________
HELP JOHN DUNN
John Dunn, ex-miner and a Labour Party member for 45 years, was blocked from voting for Corbyn, because he challenged Owen Smith for exploiting the legacy of Orgreave for electoral purposes.
He has been told he is suspended from the Labour Party.
John says: "45 years continuous membership and they couldn't even address me by my name"
It looks like the NEC are creating their very own blacklist.
Labour grew hugely under Corbyn and the ''guess'' is --- most of new members were Corbyn supporters.
A DREAM COME TRUE
Support for Jeremy Corbyn from Tyrone O’Sullivan, a fourth-generation south Wales miner, who led a workers’ buy-out of Tower Colliery, to save it from closure.
"I’ve been close to Jeremy since the miners’ strike. Knowing the man, knowing his abilities and his education, it was a dream come true for me when he became leader. His ideas and values are more necessary, here in south Wales, than probably anywhere else in the country. He wanted victory for Labour, but only under our terms - for a change."
O’Sullivan, a lifelong Labour member, says Jeremy is the only true socialist we have had as leader --- for 20 or 30 years.
____________________________________
PEOPLE DESERVE RESPECT
Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership opponent flaunted his contempt for democracy by backing a second referendum on UK membership of the EU.
And MPs pressured Jeremy Corbyn to resign, by constant smears, media lies and attacks on Labour's membership !!!
No wonder the Unite policy conference has overwhelmingly backed mandatory reselection of MPs - to ensure genuine democratic accountability in the party.
____________________________________
Unite pushes for reselection of MPs by Conrad Landin
Candidates ‘should reflect members’ views’
Labour's largest affiliate is now behind the push for mandatory reselection of MPs, as Jeremy Corbyn critics have “destabilised” the party, to ditch anti-austerity policies.
Delegates at general union Unite’s conference are resolved to support the approach, in order “to ensure democratic accountability, and the rights of party members to select candidates that reflect their views.”
Currently, sitting MPs are only subject to a “trigger ballot” -- where they automatically become the candidate -- unless a super- majority of branches in the constituency support a new selection.
London and eastern region's delegate, Kevin Parslow: “The current trigger mechanism is difficult, & weighted in favour of the incumbent.
“We put ourselves up as reps and branch officers for election regularly.
“I don’t think it’s unreasonable for MPs to put themselves up for re-selection. They should be accountable to us, and not to Murdoch’s press: they're there because they have the Labour Party name on the ballot paper.”
Mike Hedges, another London delegate: “Four weeks ago I would have spoken against this motion--- but after the treachery of 172 MPs --- we have no option.”
The union’s leaders are also mandated to “support moves to bring more democracy into policy-making -- by returning powers to the party conference.”
A Unite spokesperson:
“This vote simply reflects the immense frustration that our members feel. They look at the conduct of some within the party, the challenge to the elected leader, and they feel angered.
“They want Labour fighting the Tories, not among themselves.”
KEEP FIGHTING FOR MORE DEMOCRACY!
Momentum and Labour are engaged in a huge consultation to expand democracy in Labour...
WHY NOT PASTE THE LINK BELOW AND JOIN THE DISCUSSION?
http://www.peoplesmomentum.com/democracy-review
* * *
With 640,000 members - and a huge 200,00 joining in just 2 weeks- Labour was the largest left-wing party in Europe.
If you haven't done so already, join Labour, join Momentum, and let's rebuild #BuildOurMovement.
join.labour.org.uk
join.peoplesmomentum.com
_________________________________
GMB Wins Lidl Recognition by Peter Lazenby Ruling affects hundreds of warehouse staff
The Star - General union GMB has won a landmark legal ruling giving hundreds of warehouse workers at giant cut-price supermarket chain Lidl the right to be represented by the union.
The German-owned chain opposes union recognition and resisted the union’s claim.
But the Central Arbitration Committee, whose decisions are legally binding, supported the GMB case, and gave the union full rights to represent and negotiate on behalf of its 223 members among warehouse workers at Bridgend, south Wales.
GMB now presses ahead with its campaign for recognition at 8 more Lidl warehouses across England and Scotland.
National secretary Justin Bowden says: “Lidl’s attempts at union-busting were quite properly thrown out by the judge --- in a massive victory for rights at work.
“[Wednesday’s] ruling opens the gates to not only improving employees’ pay & terms and conditions at the Bridgend site, but is also a major victory for the GMB’s campaign for a trade union voice at the workplace.
“The suggestion that Lidl’s workers don't need the option of a trade union to stick up for them and fight for their interests is baloney, pure and simple.
“As a result of today’s ruling, employees will get the chance to decide for them- selves, if the company’s own ‘personal personnel hotline’ is any match for an independent union taking their side & defending their interests in the workplace.”
GMB Wales and south-west regional secretary John Phillips adds: “Regrettably, Lidl continues to show both hostility towards GMB & shameful disregard for the wishes of its own workforce, with expensive challenges against fair and objective decisions made by independent third-party organisations.”
Lidl is also resisting attempts by shop workers’ union Usdaw to recruit and represent staff in its supermarkets.
An Usdaw spokesperson said: “Lidl will not even let our representatives into stores, to talk to staff.”
Lidl has 637 stores & 9 regional distribution centres --- employing over 18,000 staff. Its ambitions to expand in Britain, could see it more than double in size --- with plans for 1,500 stores & 2 more distribution centres.
_______________________________
Tax offices’ own cleaners don’t get minimum wage
Cleaners at 6 government offices on Mersey- side walked out over their employer’s failure to pay them the legal minimum wage.
The staff began the two-day strike, because they have not received that £7.20-an-hour rate the government introduced on April 1.
_____________________________________
Wales: 50,000 days lost due to teacher stress
The number of teachers off sick due to stress in Wales has soared by thousands in just one year, new research shows.
Stress-related illness caused the 51,795 sick days: an increase of 2,568 on 2014, freedom of information figures revealed.
______________________________
Unions stood by Corbyn & McDonnell
The entire labour movement could have been concentrating all of our efforts - on bringing down this mean government.
Instead, 172 Labour MPs launched an attempted coup on Corbyn. If it's true that Angela Smith MP described the 10,000 activists, including general secretaries of affiliated trade unions, who were at a recent pro-Corbyn rally, as “dogs,” --- then serious questions need to be asked about the relationship between the PLP and the trade union movement.
Every trade union in Britain has regular elections for shop stewards, branch secretaries, and their general secretary.
It's time those who fund the Labour Party demanded the same level of democracy for sitting MPs.
Anything less than a mandatory reselection of MPs before every parliament is now untenable.
Let’s get this straight: none of these MPs backed Corbyn for leader, most of them abstained in the Welfare Reform Bill, many of them voted for the Iraq war, & to this day, hero-worship Tony Blair.
The 172 Labour MPs aren't just trying to change the Labour leader -- they are plotting to drag the movement back to a Blairite view of politics.
The vote of no confidence wasn't just an attempt to oust Corbyn --- it was a declaration of war on the entire organised left.
The gloves are off and there’s no going back. Everyone will need to decide: which side are you on? I stand with Corbyn and McDonnell.
Dave Smith is co-author, with Phil Chamberlain, of Blacklisted: The Secret War between Big Business and Trade Unionists, (New Internationalist Publications).
________________________________
RMT: We Must Fight Assault On Our Rights Union ‘disappointed’ with lack of action from TUC
Unions should move to take “generalised” strike action: with or without a go-ahead from the TUC, RMT activists insisted.
The union was meeting in Cardiff that week --- but you wouldn't know it, if you'd read the Welsh press!
Delegates at the transport union’s annual general meeting in Cardiff expressed disappointment that fiery rhetoric about defeating new anti-strike laws was not followed up with action.
The union unanimously passed a motion expressing concern at the TUC’s “lack of campaigning” on the issue and called for a “high-profile campaign.”
Leeds delegate Trevor Howard said: “Personally, my own view is that the TUC is a waste of space and it needs to be reorganised.”
The Trade Union Act, which received Royal Assent last month, imposes arbitrary thresholds on strike ballots & other curbs on labour movement activity.
RMT general secretary Mick Cash said: “It’s fundamentally undemocratic when you put these thresholds in.”
He said unions must respond to the law by ramping up their organising. “Whatever we do, we’ve got to make sure we get our members’ support,” he said.
And he praised Jeremy Corbyn’s Workplace 2020 agenda, which aims to introduce new labour rights.
“What we need to be doing is turning the tables,” he added: “We’ve got to get an alternative to this legislation --- to get us positive rights.”
Cash blasts ‘self-indulgent MPs’ for sabotaging left’s moment
“Self-indulgent” Labour MPs have squandered the left’s best moment to go on the offensive, RMT's general secretary, Mick Cash, stressed.
He used his address to the transport union’s annual general meeting to warn of “massive fights ahead” amid “political and economic turmoil.”
He said the divisions in the Tory Party and shockwaves in the world of capital should have been an opportunity for the left to get its message across. But he said this had been sabotaged by the frontbenchers resigning and calling for Jeremy Corbyn’s head.
He fumed: “What have they done? Self-indulgence. They’ve created division, they created a lack of leadership of progressive forces.
“They’ve created a situation where, if we’re not careful, we’ll have a Tory government ------ and worse, a Tory government supported by Ukip.
“We need to seize the opportunity to put forward an agenda to fight against austerity, against cuts and for workers’ rights. But that won’t happen if our politicians in London are playing the game they’re playing.
“Ordinary working people are sick of the political class and what they’re doing --- and yet they’re doing it again.”
_______________________________________
Putschist MPs ‘Let The Tories Off The Hook’ Unions rally round previous Labour leader
Union reps on Labour’s ruling executive signed a defiant statement to show that Mr Corbyn still has institutional support.
The leader of Labour’s most recent affiliate Fire Brigades Union general secretary Matt Wrack pointed his hoses at the quitters, saying their action was “co-ordinated to cause maximum damage” to Mr Corbyn.
“It is bizarre that some of the MPs making the loudest criticism of Jeremy Corbyn over the referendum -- completely failed to convince the electorate in their own constituencies,” he said.
“After the referendum, Labour should be setting out policies to defend jobs, public services & wages, as an exit from the EU is negotiated. Instead, some Labour MPs are playing irresponsible & silly games, from their Westminster bubble.”
Unite south-east secretary Jenny Formby, one of the executive members behind the statement in support of Mr Corbyn, said it was “nonsense” to blame him for the result. “Now, more than ever, is a time for loyalty and unity,” she stormed.
Communication Workers’ Union leader Dave Ward fired off a missive, stating Mr Corbyn “has our full support” as leader.
“Jeremy Corbyn is, and remains, the catalyst for change in the Labour Party and the country,” he said. “Those who seek to oust him, represent the politics that forgot ordinary people.”
And food union BFAWU turned up the heat. They said plotters would “only serve to let the Conservative government off the hook for the damage they've heaped upon our communities & the crisis they've caused in pursuit of power.”
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WHERE IS MOST UK YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT?
WALES!
(WHERE IN WALES? GUESS !!!)
Youth unemployment rates in some parts of Britain, such as the North East, have reached the highest recorded level ever, recent data gathered by the GMB union shows.
The GMB report says unemployment rates among people aged between 18-25 have hit record levels.
Wales is top of the unemployment list, with almost 23,000 claimants. The GMT reveals that some parts of Wales have a jobless rate of 37%.
Paul Kenny, GMB general secretary:
"In the UK there are nearly 400,000 young workers aged 18-24 claiming jobseeker's allowance. When you add to that number the rest of the young people not in jobs, but seeking work, the real number is more than double that figure.”
The number of young UK job seekers is really almost one million;- which makes this young generation the real victims of the current recession in Britain.
Kenny again: “The Government is in denial that it is deliberately creating unemployment.”
This is while reports say almost 150,000 jobs are under threat across the country.
What Wales needs is AN ECONOMY
ONE THAT WILL LAST
"Regional aid" - artificially importing factories that owe no allegiance to Wales - has failed.
Innovation means NEW ! New thinking.
Stop moaning about the past. Start building an economy NOW, for our youngsters.
Or else!!!
New means old, if you want to build a genuine economy. From the ground up, means exactly that!
Agriculture, producing smart new food and drinks. But based on our strengths.
All the land we need is here, and if we look up, 80 percent of Wales' "valley" land is up in the air, like Penrhys!
And it's almost unused. Imagine! All that land from the Rhondda over to Aberdare and beyond.
I'm sure people with vision can see orchards and new products... new ways of working, etc.
All it requires is a WILLINGNESS TO CHANGE.
ALL TOGETHER NOW FOR PEACE
The UK's TUC is calling on the UK government to end its meddling policies in the Middle East and North Africa. “The “war on terror” is still continuing and has failed, after ten years, to bring the promised peace and stability to either the Middle East or the wider world,” the motion says...
UK FOLLOWING US DOWN THE DRAIN
Last year’s table of 10 top EU economies - assessing income, prices, working culture & public spending, put the UK in last place.
The UK now has the 4th-highest retirement age of any country averaging 63.1 years - and this,thanks to the Tories AND a supine work-force, is set to keep rising higher and higher.
Average net household income after tax, (and remember, this "average" includes the stinking rich) is £37,172 a year, but even after ignoring the ridiculously high "average", this is now much lower than the average amount earned in Ireland, the Netherlands & Denmark, where there are less of the obscenely rich, to distort the figures.
In Wales, we know that the "average" worker earns far less than this: (£15,000 after tax)
Life for most in the UK is set to get even worse - if people don't fight back - as public services are to be cut more, after the next Spending Review ..and will lead to budget cuts of up to 40% in many public service departments.
France and Spain again top the quality of life index, as workers there have more paid holidays, earlier retirement, lower prices, longer life expectancy and, just to rub it in... better weather.
There are no separate figures for Wales.... why?
Could it be that knowing... might lead to discontent or is it because Welsh workers, with their vibrant economy, as they stop mindlessly following London... and build their new economy, are now so well off, that the English might get jealous? Yeah, right!
The lesson is obvious. Strong unions with gutsy membership abound on the continent, while UK residents sink apathetically down & down & down.
As Tony Blair said: we British are "special".
We think life gets better for us if we let the bankers of London exploit the rest of the world, and our non-working workforce sinks into apathy and selfishness...
Makes you proud, doesn't it! Does it?
WORKERS ACROSS EUROPE UNITE & FIGHT TO STOP CUTS PEACE - NOT WAR AND LOOTING !
Workers from across Europe took part in a major demonstration in Brussels --- to demand that austerity measures be dropped in favour of an end to wars & for peaceful reconstruction.
Europeans took to the streets of Brussels to demonstrate against wage & pension cuts and diminishing job opportunities.
The European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), one of the EU's leading unions, says that about 100,000 people from 30 countries took part, and police estimates say 20,000.
“Cutting in a recession's crazy and we must fight it,” AFP quotes the ETUC's general secretary, a prominent UK union leader.
Marches also took place in Portugal, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Czech Republic, Cyprus, Serbia, Romania, Poland, Ireland and France.
The rallies coincided with a general strike in Spain where the government froze pensions and cut the salaries of government workers.
“This is the worst economic crisis in the post- war history of Western Europe,” the eTUC leader adds.
"We call for a rethink and a change - in Spain and in Europe. We are mobilizing, and they will have to listen to us."
The union says European workers could be the main victims of a financial crisis set off by bankers and traders.
Many European governments have imposed reductions in wages, pensions & employment - to deal with the escalating economic issues.
The OECD has released its long awaited Action Plan to curb "base erosion and profit shifting" (BEPS) by large multinational enterprises.
"The OECD Action Plan has the ambition to effectively curb tax evasion by large multinational enterprises – but it is a plan, and it needs effective commitments by governments and effective implementation,” says ITUC General Secretary Sharan Burrow.
The Action plan consists of 15 measures to strengthen corporate income tax rules and prevent tax avoidance through manipulating intra-group transfer pricing between subsidiaries, and the use of empty shell companies in low tax jurisdictions.
Tax challenges created by globalised production and service systems, the digital economy and increasing importance of "intangibles" – r & d, and intellectual property – feature prominently in the OECD Action plan.
