THE UNITED NATIONS
Climate crisis is outrunning world, UN chief Antonio Guterres warns leaders at COP31
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres addressed world leaders at the COP31 summit in Turkey regarding climate change action. He warned that the slow international response threatens the planet's future and urged countries to implement clean energy solutions. Negotiators from nearly 200 nations are currently seeking agreement on enhancing electricity's role in global energy consumption. The summit occurs amid significant geopolitical challenges and alarming climate data highlighting increasing global temperatures.
World leaders begin talks as COP31 faces pressure to turn climate promises into action amid rising global warming
World leaders are gathering in Turkey for the UN climate conference COP31 amid mounting pressure to translate climate commitments into concrete action. The summit comes after a year of deadly climate-related disasters, stalled progress on fossil fuel reductions and growing concerns that global warming will exceed the 1.5°C threshold set under the Paris Agreement. Rising energy prices linked to the Iran war and the absence of the US delegation add to the challenges facing negotiations.
Schengen travel rules to change in 2027 as Europe introduces new ETIAS authorisation
Travellers from visa-exempt countries visiting the Schengen Area will need a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) approval when the system launches in 2027. The authorisation will not be a visa but will be mandatory for eligible visitors before travel. It will remain valid for up to three years, subject to passport validity, and allow multiple visits within the existing 90-day limit in any 180-day period.
Senior American soldier accused of being a Russian spy arrested in UK just days after US moved its warplanes from RAF Mildenhall in Suffolk to Germany following Iranian threats
A US Army soldier faces allegations of help for Russian intelligence, while more than a dozen US military aircraft have left a British airbase after a reported threat from Iran. The arrest took place near Gloucester on November 10, while the aircraft departures from RAF Mildenhall followed a report of a further threat from Iran. British police and US officials have commented on the espionage allegations.
Zara owner Inditex commits $50 million to fund low-cost loans for suppliers going green
Zara owner Inditex has committed $50 million to an IFC-led fund that aims to raise $400 million to provide low-cost loans to suppliers investing in energy efficiency and cleaner energy. The initiative seeks to help smaller businesses, particularly in developing countries, transition to net-zero operations as the fashion industry faces pressure to reduce emissions.
UN body agrees to postpone review of US rights record after Trump administration snub
The UN Human Rights Council has postponed its review of the United States' human rights record until January after the Trump administration refused to participate, making the US the first UN member state to fully reject the process. The 47-member council approved the delay by consensus to give Washington more time to reconsider its decision.
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‘Should've called it Whitewashing, not Belonging’: BJP slams Sonia Gandhi's memoir
The BJP has criticised Congress leader Sonia Gandhi's memoir Belonging: A Journey of Love, with party spokesperson CR Kesavan saying it should have been titled 'Whitewashing, not Belonging'. Kesavan accused the book of sugar-coating the Nehru-Gandhi family's past, while BJP leader HS Phoolka alleged that Gandhi's account of the Army's deployment after Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984 contradicts official records and gives Rajiv Gandhi a clean chit.
Central Asia's biggest state holds mega business meet in USA
The forum was organized by Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with the Atameken National Chamber of Entrepreneurs and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce on the sidelines of the B20 Summit on Nov. 9. It brought together government officials, national companies, financial institutions and business representatives from both countries, including representatives of more than 100 American enterprises, according to a report in The Astana Times.
'We work for America, not the global order': Marco Rubio asserts US' 1st stance on China and trilateral engagement
Addressing the core friction between Washington and Beijing, Secretary Rubio emphasised that major power competition is an inevitable reality driven by competing national systems, on the sidelines of the G7 Foreign Ministers Meeting held in Paris, France.
Rubio urges nations to 'step up' on Strait of Hormuz security
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with G7 foreign ministers in Paris regarding Iranian attacks on shipping. He called for nations to enhance protection in the Strait of Hormuz, which faces ongoing threats. Many allies expressed hesitance, stating assistance can only come after reducing conflict risks. Rubio emphasized the global importance of securing shipping routes, despite the US not relying on oil from that region.
IIT Indore reveals severe pollution in drain leading into Kshipra river ahead of Simhastha 2028 pilgrimage
IIT Indore conducted an investigation revealing significant pollution levels in Nagdhaman Nala, which impacts Kshipra river water quality. The study identified a lack of oxygen and high levels of faecal bacteria in the water. Experts expressed concerns regarding the water's unfit status for recreational use ahead of Simhastha 2028. Madhya Pradesh government has not taken necessary actions to address these pollution levels despite growing environmental concerns.
India's water journey a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management initiatives, including the Jal Jeevan Mission and Namami Gange Programme, are gaining international recognition. Senior officials at the World Bank have praised these efforts as models for developing countries. The upcoming United Nations Water Conference will highlight India's achievements and encourage knowledge sharing. India is actively preparing for the conference, emphasizing its role in global water security discussions.
India, US vow to jointly act against emerging drug threats
India and the US have agreed to strengthen cooperation against emerging narcotics threats, including illicit drug trafficking and the diversion of synthetic drugs and chemical precursors. At a bilateral meeting in New Delhi, both sides discussed intelligence sharing, coordinated enforcement, precursor control, pharmaceutical supply chains and measures to reduce drug demand.
Iran uses global climate talks to highlight impact of US strike on Minab school
Iran is utilizing the COP31 climate summit to highlight the consequences of a US missile strike on a school. The national pavilion features images of the incident’s aftermath along with a virtual reality experience. Additionally, visiting officials will see exhibits from Ukraine addressing efforts in renewable energy amid conflict. The conference has become a platform for discussing global energy price increases related to regional conflicts.
India's water management initiatives a model for developing nations: World Bank official
India's water management efforts, such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, are being recognized internationally for their effectiveness. The World Bank highlights India's initiatives, including river restoration and dam safety improvements. These programs aimed at increasing access to clean water are now models for other developing nations. The upcoming 2026 United Nations Water Conference will provide a platform for India to share these experiences.
Fossil fuel emissions fall due to Iran war and renewables, finds research
Emissions from the burning of oil, gas and coal -- the main drivers of climate change -- rose by 0.9 percent per year on average in the past decade, hitting a record high in 2025, according to the Global Carbon Budget report.
French officials accuse Iran of being behind refrigerator hacks
French officials have attributed the October cyberattacks on supermarket refrigerators to Iran's Revolutionary Guards. As a result of these attacks, harsh consequences for Iran may follow, including further EU sanctions. The cyber incident impacted hundreds of supermarkets and resulted in significant financial losses nationwide. Investigations are ongoing into similar incidents affecting installations in the United States and Europe.
World entering 'age of climate extremes': UN chief Guterres
The world is entering a new reality where climate extremes are the norm, the United Nations chief Antonio Guterres warned Monday, urging leaders at the COP31 climate conference in Turkey to "get serious". "We have entered a new age of climate extremes."
Death toll from Saudi attack in Yemen rises to 44
The death toll from Saudi strikes on Yemen's Sanaa province climbed to 44, including more than 20 children, the Houthis said on their television channel Monday. "The toll from the Saudi enemy's massacre in the Alshariyah area of Bani Hushaysh, east of Sanaa, 44 martyrs and 40 wounded," the Houthis' ministry of health said, according to the group's Almasirah TV channel.
World's largest climate summit COP31 opens as climate and geopolitical pressures mount
The UN climate talks are set to begin in Antalya, where rising temperatures create an urgent need for global cooperation. More than 100,000 attendees from nearly 200 countries are expected to discuss climate action and funding for developing nations. The ongoing geopolitical tensions complicate negotiations, especially regarding fossil fuel transitions. Additionally, developing countries are advocating for increased adaptation finance to combat climate impacts.
At least 21 dead after boat carrying migrants sinks off Senegal coast, interior ministry says
The ministry said in a post on X that as of Saturday evening one person had been found alive, and that teams had been mobilised to continue searching for any more possible survivors. It did not specify how many people were believed to have been on board.
COP31 a 'moment of truth': UN chief Guterres urges world leaders to act now on climate change
António Guterres has urged global leaders to take immediate action against climate change ahead of the COP31 summit. He emphasizes that responsibility should not be shifted and that everyone must commit to change now. Guterres highlights the worsening impact of climate disasters and the interplay between climate change and other global challenges. Additionally, he believes that fossil fuel companies should contribute by being taxed on their profits.
UAE rescues 22 crew members after cargo ship catches fire in Gulf of Oman
UAE Coast Guard successfully rescued 22 crew members of Arab nationality from a burning cargo ship. The operation was initiated after the crew reported the fire on board the vessel. Specialized teams quickly located the ship and evacuated all individuals in a stable condition. This incident follows a previous rescue operation that involved 22 Asian nationals from an oil tanker in October.
How China's clean-tech machine is reshaping the global climate fight
In 2024, China took the lead as the top investor in global clean technology, directing $132 billion to developing nations to aid carbon reduction efforts. This unprecedented infusion of resources could potentially reshape the landscape of international climate finance.
Flanked by 'dissident MLAs,' Farooq Abdullah says no rift within National Conference
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah emphasised party unity following a meeting with disgruntled MLAs. The meeting aimed to address concerns regarding the recent cabinet expansion and party organization. Abdullah stated that the concerns of the legislators were genuine and would be taken into consideration. Assurance was given to address some issues immediately while others would be resolved gradually.
In a divided world, COP31 aims for agreement on electrification
COP31, kicking off November 9 in Antalya, Turkey, is all set to spotlight the global push for electrification. With a target to raise electricity's contribution to final energy demand to 35% by 2035, nations are keenly examining how electrification can effectively curb fossil fuel use.
Chinese President Xi Jinping likely to skip ASEAN Summit in Manila: Report
The Philippines' Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) shared this information on Wednesday while responding to reports about Xi's expected absence from the annual summit, which the Philippines is hosting this year.
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