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-Top News Arab News UAE News

Al Marri Attends Turkish National Day Reception

The Turkish Ambassador praised the bilateral relations between the UAE and his country, which have seen significant progress in recent years across all levels….reports Asian Lite News

UAE Minister of Economy Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri attended a reception hosted by Tugay Tunçer, Turkish Ambassador to the UAE, on the occasion of his country’s National Day.

The reception, which was held at the Rixos Premium Saadiyat Hotel Abu Dhabi, was also attended by Khalifa Shaheen Al Marar, Minister of State, as well as a number of officials, heads of Arab and foreign diplomatic missions accredited to the UAE, and members of the Turkish community in the UAE.

In his speech at the reception, the Turkish Ambassador praised the bilateral relations between the UAE and his country, which have seen significant progress in recent years across all levels.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held a phone call on Sunday with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, extending his congratulations on the centennial anniversary of the Republic’s establishment.

During the call, His Highness Shiekh Mohamed conveyed his best wishes for ongoing progress and prosperity for Türkiye, its government, and people.

Sheikh Mohamed affirmed the strength of relations between the UAE and Türkiye, emphasising their mutual commitment to further reinforce these ties at all levels to meet the aspirations of the two nations for development and prosperity.

President Erdogan expressed his appreciation to His Highness for the congratulatory message, acknowledging the sincere sentiments extended towards Türkiye and its citizens. He also wished for continued progress in the UAE and for further growth and prosperity in relations between the two countries.

ALSO READ: IDF Liberates Soldier Captured by Hamas in Gaza

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Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Skincare during pregnancy

Such dynamic skin conditions are an obvious fact during and after pregnancy, but here is the good news – these dire skin conditions can be taken care of…reports Asian Lite News

Motherhood is a time of immense joy and excitement, the duration of pregnancy gifts radiant skin and voluminous hair to the would-be mothers, along with the little bundle of joy.

The sudden boost of estrogen is the basic science behind all the glow. However, right after the pregnancy hormones cease to flow and the postpartum tiredness starts showing up on the face.

Pregnancy comes will loads of immeasurable goodness, but it also has its own share of challenges, and some of those get reflected on the new mom’s skin too. Experiencing patchy, dry, and sensitive skin is a grave problem that new moms often face. Such dynamic skin conditions are an obvious fact during and after pregnancy, but here is the good news – these dire skin conditions can be taken care of. 

“A new mother’s body reannotates itself after the little human is out of the safe haven. The post-partum skin goes through a lot of stress at this point. It gets stretched to the extent that sagging and stretch marks are a normal visual. During this entire revamp session of the bodies, new mothers’ emotions and their skins pay for the stress going inside. Pregnant skin can even develop darker skin pigmentation or melasma, and pimple breakouts, and postpartum skin gets loose and patchy, making it appear aged. In fact, this stage can be dupped as the onset of aging skin signs. And with so much on the plate already taking care of our skin is an impossible task,” says Dr. Chiranjiv Chhabra, Director and Chief Dermatologist at Alive Wellness Clinics

According to research potions like hyaluronic acid can move the magic wand, such as Profhilo does, but who would take an added responsibility for scouting the same? Is it safe during the breastfeeding period? Dr. Chiranjiv answers all your questions…

What is unsafe skincare during postpartum? 

Dr. Chiranjiv: The postpartum period is a reconstruction period of the body. One should take note that along with the possible effects on the mother, how is the baby affected? Almost all the skincare products available in the market are perfectly safe to use, specifically all topical skincare products. Although, for popping supplements strict discretion is mandatory from the dermatologist and your physician. Apart from these, new mothers should avoid salicylic acid, Tretinoin and Tazarotene, Topical corticosteroids, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs), Parabens, Phthalates and Retinoids (Not the oral Vitamin A form). 

How to look radiant during postpartum?

Dr. Chiranjiv: The basic grammar of skincare remains the same, however, aesthetic treatments like a combination of ultra-pure hyaluronic acid and bio-remodeling treatment is a match made in heaven (metaphorically), works on wrinkles, lines, dark under-eye patches, pigmentation, and other signs of aging skin.

Profhilo contains high concentrations of pure hyaluronic acid and does not include any chemical agents. One of the greatest things about hyaluronic acid is that it’s suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. It’s a gentle, non-irritating ingredient that works by attracting water molecules to the skin, helping to lock in hydration and prevent moisture loss. This can be especially beneficial for new moms who may be experiencing dryness or dehydration due to hormonal changes and the demands of caring for a newborn.

How to boost the Collagen game?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Collagen is a protein naturally found in human bodies. This protein is responsible for forming our ligaments, fat, and skin. Collagen is responsible for the youthful suppleness of the skin, but with growing age collagen production falls. It is worse during breastfeeding, the mother’s body starts feeling the unavailability of collagen, resulting in dry and pliable skin. Adding collagen treatment to your postpartum skincare routine will regenerate new skin cells so that the skin’s ability to stretch is increased and it can gain its suppleness back. 

Is probiotics healthy for the gut and glowing skin?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Research proves that our gut is the second brain. Even our healthy skin is a boon from a balanced and healthy gut. Disharmony in the gut can result in itchy, dry, and inflamed skin. 

Add a dose of skin-boosting probiotic to your postpartum skincare that will help to cure your digestive issues and inner health, thus radiating outside. 

How to beat skin dryness?

Dr. Chiranjiv: Both pregnancy and postpartum periods come with one of the most terrible skin conditions, constant itching. Your skin goes through an age of stretching and again trying to squeeze back (hopelessly) to its original form and the rise of progesterone in the body adds to the woe. All these result in constant itching, to the extent that mothers bruise themselves while trying to comfort themselves by itching. Butter-based moisturisers act as a messiah in these tough times while adding to the much-needed hydration and cooling effect to the skin. 

If you are determined to ace the postpartum skincare and get the pregnancy radiance back, then consider incorporating the above-mentioned tips. 

ALSO READ-Balancing Festivity and Fitness

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Bollywood Films Lite Blogs

Sonam’s Personal Style Touch in ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’

Sonam said that she has never followed any handbook on fashion…reports Asian Lite News

Actress Sonam Kapoor, who is known for her fashion sense, spoke about when she styled herself in her film ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’.

Sonam said: “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo was a film which reached the length and breadth of India. It was one of my films which worked very, very well and Anamika had done all the clothes that I had worn. I had styled myself in the film; the western wear was what I had picked up, but all my Indian wear was designed by Anamika Khanna.”

Sonam added: “I remember going to a couple of weddings and I saw a lot of girls wearing the same clothes, and I thought that was wonderful.” 

“I realised that is the power of cinema. I didn’t understand it initially and Sooraj ji (Barjatya) told me that there was this green sari that Madhuri (Dixit) had worn in one of his films and the lilac and yellow sari which Amrita (Rao) had worn and these outfits had really worked.”

She further added: “Sooraj ji was like, ‘these are the colours that I want, and you will see that it will work’. In my late 20’s, a lot of my friends were getting married at that time and I was going for these weddings and I saw a lot of them wearing these same Anamika outfits that I wore in Prem Ratan Dhan Payo and I found that so amazing and felt so happy and proud!” 

Sonam said that she has never followed any handbook on fashion.

“I am a Gemini, so every time I wake up in the morning, I feel I have a different mood everyday and I am a different person everyday. And I think the one way we can express ourselves is through what we wear. I feel, like anybody you see with whatever they wear, we can tell who they are, as people. It is one form of expression,” she concluded.

A Peek into Her Free Time

Sonam Kapoor has talked about what she does in her free time when she is not working or shooting.

Sonam is a voracious reader and she reveals how her love for books has kept her creatively satiated since her childhood.

Sonam said: “Books transport us to a world of imagination. When I am not shooting or working, I am constantly reading and getting sucked into a world where everything is possible!”

Sonam loves when a good book turns into a great cinematic adaptation.

She said: “Some of my most favourite movies are adaptations of brilliant books. The love I have for books and cinema is in equal measure and it’s amazing when good books turn into good movies.”

The actress feels books provide great material for writers to harness brilliant plots for cinema.

“Books provide the perfect source material for developing engrossing and entertaining screen content. I’ve always believed that a good story will be loved by all and also transcend all boundaries,” said the actress.

On the work front, Sonam was recently seen in ‘Blind’, a crime thriller film directed by Shome Makhija.

The film features Sonam in a leading role with Purab Kohli, Vinay Pathak and Lillete Dubey in supporting roles.

‘Blind’, a remake of the 2011 Korean film of the same name, centres around a blind police officer in search of a serial killer.

ALSO READ-Sonam Kapoor partners with Kérastase for haircare

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-Top News UAE News UK News

Abdullah, Cleverly Discuss Regional Developments

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah underscored the importance of doubling efforts made by the international community to end extremism, tension, and escalating violence in the region…reports Asian Lite News

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Minister of Foreign Affairs, discussed with James Cleverly, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, the latest developments in the Middle East.

This came during a business luncheon in Abu Dhabi, where the two top diplomats reviewed international efforts towards de-escalation, protecting civilians and ensuring the sustainable and safe delivery of relief and medical aid to civilians, affirming the need to unite regional and global efforts to enhance response and meet the needs of affected civilians.

H.H. Sheikh Abdullah underscored the importance of doubling efforts made by the international community to end extremism, tension, and escalating violence in the region.

The two ministers also reviewed the cooperation and partnership between their countries, especially in the economic and trade fields.

Sheikh Abdullah highlighted the deep-rooted ties that the UAE and the UK share and their growing strategic partnership that spans across various sectors.

Also attending the meeting were Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Minister of State for International Cooperation, and Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy.

UK Advisory to UAE Citizens

The United Kingdom has issued a travel advisory to its citizens travelling to the UAE amid likely risk of terrorist attacks there.

“Before you travel, check the ‘Entry requirements’ section for the UAE’s current entry restrictions and requirements. These may change with little warning. Monitor this advice for the latest updates and stay in contact with your travel provider,” the advisory said.

A number of missiles and unmanned aerial systems (drones) were launched into the UAE from Yemen in early 2022, targetting infrastructure and high profile locations, some of which were in populated areas.

The vast majority of these missiles and drones were intercepted and destroyed but there were a small number of casualties.

On January 17, 2022, the UAE authorities confirmed a Houthi attack on civilian facilities in Abu Dhabi, which caused the death of three civilians. On January 24, 2022, the UAE authorities announced that their air defence forces had intercepted and destroyed two Houthi ballistic missiles targeting the UAE and that there were no casualties. On January 31, 2022, the UAE authorities announced their air defence forces had intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile targeting the UAE and that there were no casualties,” it said.

“Further attacks are likely. If an incident does occur, you should monitor local media reports and follow the advice of the local authorities. There is a possibility of an increased threat against Western interests, including against UK citizens. You should remain vigilant and keep up to date with the latest developments, including via the media and this travel advice,” the advisory said.

“Around 1.5 million British nationals visit the UAE every year. Most visits are trouble-free. Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in the UAE…The UAE is a Muslim country. Laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK,” it added.

ALSO READ: IDF Liberates Soldier Captured by Hamas in Gaza

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-Top News Arab News Asia News

 Israeli Tanks Breach Gaza City

Israeli tanks and military vehicles pushed two miles into Gaza as part of their expanded operations….reports Asian Lite News

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu shocked the world, stating Israel would not agree to a ceasefire, saying “This is a time for war” drawing parallel with the US military action after 9/11 and Pearl Harbour attack.

Israeli tanks and military vehicles pushed two miles into Gaza city as part of their expanded operations, even as relief aid groups claimed that civil order is breaking down in the territory while hospitals said it is next to impossible to comply with the evacuation orders on patients.

Israel’s military killed dozens of Hamas fighters Monday overnight striking targets in northern Gaza as its expanded ground operations in the enclave moved rapidly. Israeli media showed the country’s troops atop a hotel about two miles into the Gaza Strip, media reports said.

“I want to make clear Israel’s position regarding the ceasefire. Just as the US would not agree to a ceasefire after the bombing of Pearl Harbour, or after the terrorist attacks of 9/11. Israel will not agree to a cessation of hostilities with Hamas after the horrific attacks of October 7,” Netanyahu said.

“Calls for a ceasefire or calls for Israel to surrender to Hamas, to surrender to terrorists, surrender to barbarism, that will not happen,” he said, adding, while the Bible says there is a time for peace, “This is a time for war.” 

When asked if he has considered stepping down, Netanyahu said the only thing he would resign is Hamas. “We’re going to resign them to the dustbin of history. That’s my goal. That’s my responsibility,” he added. 

The UN warned “civil order” was breaking down in Gaza after weeks of siege and bombardment, with people breaking into warehouses to grab all essentials for their survival.  

US President Joe Biden pushed Netanyahu on Sunday to “immediately and significantly” scale up the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, the White House said.

The US is pushing Israel to “ensure that communication networks in Gaza remain operational,” as well as to restore essential services of water and fuel, a State Department spokesperson said. 

“We made clear to the government of Israel over the weekend that communications networks need to be restored, and we are pleased that they took steps to do that,” State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at a press briefing. 

Miller also said the US is “making progress” on ensuring fuel deliveries to Gaza.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu pushed back against reports that Israel was inflicting collective punishment on the Palestinian people in its pursuit of Hamas, saying the group was preventing civilians from moving to the safe zone in southern Gaza. 

“Hamas is preventing them from leaving, keeping them in areas of conflict. So I think you should direct your questions to Hamas,” Netanyahu told a reporter at a news conference on Monday. 

Netanyahu added Israel has been trying to prevent civilian casualties by calling for civilians in Gaza to move to a safe zone in the south and providing humanitarian support. 

Around 150 aid trucks have crossed into Gaza since the gate opened last week, US says. 

A total number of 150 aid trucks have made it through the Rafah crossing into Gaza since the gate opened last week, according to the US State Department. A total of 45 aid trucks went through on Sunday — the most since the gate opened, it added. 

“We aim to surpass that number today, tomorrow and beyond,” said State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller.

Miller added the US would “continue our relentless diplomatic efforts in partnership with Israel, Egypt, the United Nations and international humanitarian partners” to increase “daily deliveries of food, water and medical supplies into Gaza”. 

Prior to October 7, there were 450 trucks going into Gaza daily, said Lynn Hastings, the UN Humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian territory, in a press briefing last week. 

She added the trucks were facing delays due to screening, technical, security and political issues.

New Israeli leaflets dropped on Gaza urge civilians to evacuate a “battlefield”. Israeli aircraft have dropped new leaflets in Arabic over Gaza, warning people in northern and central parts of the strip that “the governorate of Gaza has become a battlefield”.

“Shelters in the north of the Gaza Strip and the governorate of Gaza have become unsafe,” according to the leaflet, an image of which CNN said it saw. 

ALSO READ: IDF Liberates Soldier Captured by Hamas in Gaza

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Culture India News

North East India Festival Thrives in Vietnam

The atmosphere was further enlivened by electrifying performances by renowned bands from North East India and Vietnam, including Bright Lights, Rapper Huynh Cong Hieu, The Kod Crew, Baba, Summersalt India, Saigon LH, and Bollywood DJ Cyco…reports Asian Lite News

The 3rd North East India Festival, a three-day extravaganza, commenced on October 27th in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and concluded with resounding success on Sunday evening.

The event served as a platform for eminent figures from India and Vietnam, including, union ministers, chief ministers, provincial leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, tour operators, to engage in constructive dialogues on education, trade, and cultural awareness. 

Over the course of the festival, the first and second days witnessed an array of discussions and partnerships in education exchange, trade and business initiatives, flight connectivity, and tourism collaborations. Stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and representatives from educational institutions came together to explore opportunities for growth and collaboration, creating a positive atmosphere for progress and development.

The grand finale on 29th October was a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity. The event showcased a kaleidoscope of North Eastern dance forms, including Bagrumba (Boro), Bhortaal (Assam), Drum Ensemble and Flute (Meghalaya), Tiwa Dance (Assam), Mwsaglangnai (Boro), Bihu Dance (Assam), Mishing (Assam), Daosri Delai (Boro), Drum Beating (Meghalaya), and Jarapagla (Boro). Additionally, mesmerising folk performances by Vietnamese artists added a unique flavor to the event.

The atmosphere was further enlivened by electrifying performances by renowned bands from North East India and Vietnam, including Bright Lights, Rapper Huynh Cong Hieu, The Kod Crew, Baba, Summersalt India, Saigon LH, and Bollywood DJ Cyco.

A spectacular fashion show featuring top-notch designers of North East India dazzled the audience, showcasing exquisite designs and rich fabrics from the region. Celebrity showstoppers and glamorous models from Vietnam graced the runway, presenting creations by Bidyut and Rakesh, Daisy G Momin under the label “Daisy’s”, Manjushree Saikia under the label “Ura Maku”, and Babbi Kevichusa under the label “Bambi”.

Shyamkanu Mahanta, Chief Organiser of the North East India Festival, said, “We are immensely grateful for the overwhelming response from the local community and the staunch support from Vietnam’s stakeholders, local communities, and our representatives from India. The North East India Festival is in perfect alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East policy. We engaged in fruitful discussions on education exchange programmes between India and Vietnam, as well as collaborative efforts in tourism. Talks are underway with stakeholders to establish direct flight routes between Vietnam and North East India. The outcomes have exceeded our expectations. The North East Festival is not merely a cultural show; it is a platform for forging stronger ties in economy, education, and cross-cultural connections. We look forward to an even grander event next year.”

Dr. Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, also shared his insights, stating, “The 3rd North East India Festival has been an exceptional platform for distinguished figures from both India and Vietnam to engage in enriching dialogues. This event has not only strengthened the existing bonds between our nations but has also laid the foundation for even deeper collaboration in the future.”

The festival also featured the Incredible India Exhibition, showcasing the diverse destinations of India. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a dedicated textile zone, state-specific exhibition zones representing various northeastern states, and themes related to the Act East Policy, tea, industry, and tourism. Culinary enthusiasts relished the authentic delicacies of the North Eastern states.

Buoyed by this year’s magnificent success, the organisers eagerly look forward to an even bigger and more vibrant event next year, further cementing stronger bonds between the two countries.

ALSO READ-Vietnam-based hackers target India, US, UK

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Lite Blogs

Balancing Tradition and Modernity in Festive Home Décor

Streamline your festive preparations with the convenience of online shopping. E-commerce platforms provide a hassle-free experience, allowing you to dedicate more time to readying your home for the festivities…reports Asian Lite News

Winter marks the beginning of India’s grand festive season. It’s a time when the nation dazzles with an enchanting display of lamps, candles, and lights. As families and friends unite in celebration, exchanging gifts and relishing sumptuous feasts, the spirit of generosity and sharing is at an all-time high.

This creates the ideal opportunity to explore the art of meaningful gifting and adorning one’s home with appropriate décor to host. Embark on this illuminating journey with tips designed not only to infuse your living space with warmth and merriment but also to encapsulate the heart of the festive season.

Festive Colors: Enliven your living space with a palette of vibrant and festive hues. Deep reds, lush greens, and regal golds have the power to instantly evoke a celebratory atmosphere. Opt for textiles and decor items in these shades to set the right tone.

Blending the Past with the Present: Forge a timeless ambiance by integrating traditional and contemporary design elements. The juxtaposition of age-old and modern accents lends a touch of sophistication to one’s decor.

Harmony of Comfort and Style: Give precedence to comfort without compromising on style. Select items that not only exude aesthetic appeal but also offer a warm setting. Ensure your guests feel completely at ease in your festively adorned home.

Effortless Shopping Experience: Streamline your festive preparations with the convenience of online shopping. E-commerce platforms provide a hassle-free experience, allowing you to dedicate more time to readying your home for the festivities.

Exquisite Festive Gifts: Spread the season’s joy by choosing gifts inspired by the bounty of culture and traditions of India. myTrident’s Sanskriti Collection, is one such selection that pays homage to India’s cultural tapestry, making it the perfect gift for the festive season. It reimagines traditional artisanal textiles from diverse Indian regions, incorporating folk designs and weaves. “Known for their wide range of home furnishing collections, myTrident’s designs and premium finish reflect one’s true self and set the perfect mood for any home space. There is something to suit every style and every home”, said Kareena Kapoor Khan, brand ambassador of myTrident.

Budget-Friendly Selections: Being Expensive doesn’t always equate to being the best choice. Whether you seek affordable bath towels or indulgent comforters, find items that hold value and help express your love and gratitude like letters, chocolates, diyas, and more. Kareena Kapoor Khan, brand ambassador, myTrident adds, “It’s not about having it and spending it and showing it off, the idea is to love something and keep it for years, other than sheets and towels that need to be changed every year or two.”

Creating a festive ambiance within your home hinges on embracing India’s cultural diversity, playing with a palette of festive colors, and achieving a harmonious fusion of traditional and contemporary decor. Make guest comfort a priority and ensure they feel welcomed. With the ease of online shopping and a range of budget-friendly options, you can effortlessly prepare your home for the festive season. Illuminate your space with timeless elegance and let the spirit of the festive season shine through every corner.

ALSO READ-Decor ideas for festive season

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Lite Blogs

Recipe: Delicious Chicken Handi

Ingredients

  1. Chicken – 750 g
  2. Ginger Garlic – 2 tbsp [crushed]
  3. Green Chillies – 2 [chopped]
  4. Tomato – 3 [medium blended into paste in grinder]
  5. Cumin Seeds – 1 tsp
  6. Garam Masala – ½ tsp
  7. Red Chilli Powder – 1 tsp
  8. Coriander Powder – 2 tsp
  9. Turmeric Powder – ½ tsp
  10. Black Pepper Powder – ½ tsp
  11. Fenugreek Powder – ½ tsp
  12. Fresh Cream – ¾ cup
  13. Butter – 3 – 4 tbsp
  14. Oil – 2 tbsp

Method

  1. Wash and clean the chicken. Keep aside.
  2. In a heavy bottom pan, add the butter and oil on medium flame.
  3. Add the cumin seeds, when it splutters add the crushed ginger garlic. Saute for 2 minutes until the raw smell goes.
  4. Add the green chillies and saute. Now add the chicken to this and saute for 5 minutes on medium flame.
  5. Add the spices [ turmeric powder, red chilli powder, coriander powder,garam masala and pepper powder]. Mix everything together and cook for 2 mins.
  6. Now add the blended tomatoes to this a close and cook for 10 -15 mins until the oil comes out on low medium flame.
  7. Now add the fenugreek powder and mix. Lastly add the fresh cream and a dash of butter. Mix everything well.

YOUR CHICKEN HANDI IS

READY TO SERVE.

ENJOY!

ALSO READ-Balancing Festivity and Fitness

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Food London News Restaurant Reviews

Pumpkin and Spice and All Pizza’s Nice at Eco Clapham

This Halloween will see South London’s favourite pizzeria, Eco Clapham, serving up the ultimate Halloween flavours with a limited-edition pizza and pasta dish. Both dishes will be infused with pumpkin and spice (chili) and will ensure you have a spooktacular taste sensation says columnist Riccha Grrover for Asian Lite International.

With Eco celebrating 30 years of service this October, Halloween will be another reason for them to celebrate their creativity and treat customers to their delicious creations.

Over the last 30 years, the quality of the pizzas and dishes has not changed one bit. No less than four different flour types are combined to create naturally fermented dough. This living, breathing organism is then left to rise in two stages (the first for a minimum of 12 hours) before being cooked at 400 degrees for around 90 seconds. The result? A full-flavored, crispy base that is light and easy to eat.

The toppings are equally irresistible. All pizzas are baked with organic tomato sauce, created from the finest Italian tomatoes that are chosen six months in advance, the best fior di latte mozzarella, fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil.

Proud to have given its customers a totally different dining experience for three decades, the team is always striving to create dishes that their customers will be raving about and this Halloween is no different!

Trick and treat yourself to the limited-edition Pumpkin and Spice dishes from 29th October – 1st November.

About Sami Wasif

Sami Wasif was born in Beni Suef, Egypt, a farming town on the West Bank of the River Nile. Part of a large family, he was particularly close to his grandfather, Gerges, who, according to the Pharaonic farming calendar, was responsible for the blessing and distribution of sourdough to the local townspeople during the Spring Equinox.

After graduating from university in Sudan, Sami travelled throughout Europe and became obsessed with authentic Italian pizza.

In 1976 he moved to London and was unimpressed by the pizza he found there. Drawing on what he had learnt from his grandfather, Sami then spent years perfecting his own secret sourdough recipe. He brought all his skills to bear on his first business, the iconic Pizzeria Franco – the establishment that inspired the famous Franco Manca chain – which he purchased from Franco himself in 1989.

Under Sami and his wife Laura, the restaurant was a huge success, so much so that when the opportunity arose to build a larger eatery in Clapham Common, the couple jumped at the chance.

For three decades, Eco, has stayed true to its neighbourhood feel, still using the authentic sourdough recipe that Sami has evolved from the one he first witnessed over half a century ago in Beni Suef.

ALSO READ: 40 Dean Street: Extraordinary Italian Cuisine in Soho, Londo

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-Top News UK News

UK backs suspension of deep-sea mining in U-turn

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government had been in favour of exploratory licences, a position criticised by Labour and dozens of scientists…reports Asian Lite News

The UK has for the first time come out in support of a pause in highly controversial mining of the deep-sea bed, having previously supported it.

On Monday, the government added its name to a group of countries seeking a moratorium on new licences to exploit minerals such as lithium, copper and cobalt – vital for green energy – from the deep sea.

The environment department said the precautionary pause is designed to protect the world’s ocean from such projects, which involve heavy machinery scraping deposits from the world’s largest habitat, until more evidence on the impact is available.

It said it would establish a new UK-based network of experts to collect further scientific data.

Environment Secretary Therese Coffey said the UK will use “our scientific expertise to fully understand the impact of deep sea mining on precious ecosystems; and in the meantime, we will not support or sponsor any exploitation licences”.

The announcement comes as negotiations at the United Nations regulator, the International Seabed Authority, start on Monday, and take place one month before the COP28 climate talks commence in Dubai in December.

Previously, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government had been in favour of exploratory licences, a position criticised by Labour and dozens of scientists.

Now the UK joins countries including Germany, France, Chile and Vanuatu in backing a pause on exploitation licences for the new and contested industry.

Other than from a few small tests, no commercial mining has happened at scale yet, and campaigners say it will be extremely destructive, with full environmental impacts hard to predict.

But deep sea mining is regarded as a potential solution to the expected global shortage of raw materials considered critical to a greener energy future, and used in things like batteries and renewable power.

It is also seen as a way to reduce dependence on the relatively few countries that hold deposits on land, including China, Australia, Russia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.

The Environmental Audit Committee of MPs has warned since 2019 that deep sea mining would have “catastrophic impacts on habitats and species”.

Its current chair, the Conservative MP Philip Dunne, said the transition to cleaner energy means will “inevitably increase” demand for precious resources that can be extracted by deep sea mining.

“But this must be done in a considered way and with the backing of scientists that the environment and its inhabitants will not be severely impacted,” he said.

Greenpeace UK’s oceans campaigner Fiona Nicholls said: “The UK government’s change of heart on deep sea mining shows the tide is turning against this destructive industry threatening some of the world’s last undisturbed habitats.”

The campaigning group wants the UK to go further by agreeing to a full ban and reconsider its fossil fuel licensing, with climate change being “one of the biggest threats to marine life”.

The PM has recently come under fire from green groups for watering down some key green targets, and an attempt to relax rules on water pollution for homebuilders – though this was later rejected in the House of Lords.

ALSO READ-India, UK see free-trade deal possibly in Dec after polls