Central News Hub

Month: December 2024

  • At UN, India votes for Gaza ceasefire 

    At UN, India votes for Gaza ceasefire 

    Israel’s offensive has killed more than 44,800 Palestinians in Gaza, more than half of them women and children…reports Asian Lite News

    India voted in favour of a UN General Assembly resolution that demanded an immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire in Gaza and reiterated the demand for immediate and unconditional release of all hostages. 

    The UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved resolutions demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and backing the UN agency for Palestinian refugees that Israel has moved to ban. The 193-member General Assembly voted on Wednesday at the 10th emergency special session to adopt the draft resolution ‘Demand for ceasefire in Gaza’, introduced by Indonesia. 

    India was among the 158 nations that voted in favour of the resolution while nine member-states, including Israel and the US, voted against it. Among the 13 nations that abstained were Albania and Ukraine. The resolution demanded an “immediate, unconditional and permanent ceasefire, to be respected by all parties, and further reiterates itsdemand for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.” 

    It demanded that the parties fully, unconditionally and without delay implement all the provisions of the Security Council resolution of June 2024 regarding an “immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, the return of the remains of hostages who have been killed, the return of Palestinian civilians to their homes and neighbourhoods in all areas of Gaza, including in the north, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.” 

    The resolution demanded immediate access by the civilian population in the Gaza Strip to basic services and humanitarian assistance indispensable to its survival, while “rejecting any effort to starve Palestinians”. 

    It further demanded the facilitation of full, rapid, safe and unhindered entry of humanitarian assistance, at scale and under the coordination of the United Nations, to and throughout the Gaza Strip and its delivery to all Palestinian civilians who need it, including to civilians in besieged north Gaza, who are in urgent need of immediate humanitarian relief. 

    It also demanded that the parties fully comply with their obligations under international law in relation to persons they detain, including by releasing all those arbitrarily detained. 

    It called upon all parties to fully comply with international law, including international humanitarian law, notably with regard to the protection of civilians, especially women and children. 

    It reiterated its unwavering commitment to the vision of the two-state solution, with the Gaza Strip as part of the Palestinian State, and where two democratic States, Palestine and Israel, live side by side in peace within secure and recognised borders, consistent with international law and the relevant United Nations resolutions. 

    The resolution rejected any attempt at demographic or territorial change in the Gaza Strip, including any actions that reduce the territory of the Gaza Strip, and stresses the importance of unifying the Gaza Strip with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority. 

    Last week, India voted in favour of a General Assembly resolution that called for the withdrawal of Israel from the Palestinian territory occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem, and reiterated the call for achieving a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in the Middle East. 

    The draft resolution ‘Peaceful settlement of the question of Palestine’ tabled by Senegal was overwhelmingly adopted in the 193-member General Assembly on Tuesday. India was among the 157 nations that voted in favour, while eight member-states — Argentina, Hungary, Israel, Micronesia, Nauru, Palau, Papua New Guinea and the United States — voted against it.  Cameroon, Czechia, Ecuador, Georgia, Paraguay, Ukraine and Uruguay abstained. 

    (240731) — GAZA, July 31, 2024 (Xinhua) — Palestinians return to the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis after the Israeli army withdrew from the eastern part of the city, on July 30, 2024. The Palestinian Civil Defense stated on Tuesday that the bodies of 42 Palestinians were recovered from the rubble in the east of Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, following the Israeli army’s withdrawal. Local sources and eyewitnesses informed Xinhua that the Israeli army left behind extensive destruction in homes, residential buildings, mosques, and cemeteries. Following the withdrawal, dozens of families returned to their homes from which they had been displaced, according to sources and witnesses. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua)

    Israeli attacks kill at least 28 

    Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 28 people in Gaza, including seven children, Palestinian health officials reported, as the region is gripped by food shortages and fears of famine. 

    The attacks were launched hours after the UN general assembly overwhelmingly approved a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. 

    According to al-Aqsa Martyrs hospital in Deir al-Balah, where the casualties were taken, a house was flattened in the built-up Nuseirat refugee camp, while two separate strikes targeted local committees assigned to secure aid convoys, resulting in the deaths of 15 individuals. 

    A video shared by Gaza’s local media showed the aftermath of the attacks, with aid convoy security personnel allegedly targeted near Khan Younis. 

    The Israeli military has yet to comment on the latest reported attack on security guards protecting aid shipments. According to local media, their work was integral in facilitating the delivery of essential supplies to displaced Palestinians in Gaza, where food shortages and the looming threat of famine persist. 

    On Wednesday, the UN general assembly approved resolutions demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expressing support for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, which has been banned by Israel. 

    The UN agency for Palestinian refugees chief, Philippe Lazzarini, said the challenges faced by humanitarian operations deemed them “unnecessarily impossible”. This was due to a combination of factors including “the ongoing siege, hurdles from Israeli authorities, political decisions to restrict the amounts of aid, lack of safety on aid routes and targeting of local police” securing aid convoys. 

    Lazzarini urged Israel to guarantee the unimpeded flow of aid to Gaza and emphasised that it “must refrain from attacks on humanitarian workers”. 

    Israel’s offensive has killed more than 44,800 Palestinians in Gaza, more than half of them women and children, according to the Gaza health ministry, which does not say how many were combatants. The Israeli military says it has killed more than 17,000 militants, without providing evidence. 

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  • Trump’s Bold Diplomacy with Xi

    Trump’s Bold Diplomacy with Xi

    Beijing had not reacted to the invitation as of Thursday night….reports Asian Lite News

    Continuing with his maverick diplomacy, U.S. President-Elect Donald Trump has invited China’s President Xi Jinping to his inauguration next month for “open dialogue” with adversaries, his spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said on Thursday.

    The invitation to the leader of China which had been his target during the campaign and after is in keeping with the unconventional diplomacy that Trump practiced in his first term reaching out to North Korea’s dictator Kim Jong Un.

    Without being specific about Xi, Trump said of the invitations that are being sent out, “Some people said, ‘Wow, that’s a little risky, isn’t it’? And I said, ‘Maybe it is. We’ll see. We’ll see what happens’. But we like to take little chances”.

    Leavitt said in an interview with Fox News, “This is an example of President Trump creating an open dialogue with leaders of countries that are not just our allies but our adversaries and our competitors too.”

    She added: “He had done this in his first term and he got a lot of criticism for it, but it led to peace around the world. He is willing to talk to anyone. He will always put America’s interest first.”

    Beijing had not reacted to the invitation as of Thursday night.

    Throughout his campaign for presidentship and after his election, Trump had criticised China for its predatory trade practices, and its role in the narcotics network that is behind the deaths of tens of thousands of Americans.

    He has threatened to increase tariffs on China’s imports if it did not end the export of materials used to make synthetic narcotics.

    He has also complained about China continuing to have “developing country” status at the World Trade Organization giving it favourable export status.

    Trump has named David Perdue as his Beijing Ambassador, who is considered to be a hawk on China.

    Earlier, David Perdue, warned in a newspaper article, “Americans first have to realise the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) actually is at war with us.”

    ALSO READ: Trump says Putin not interested in protecting Assad 

  • Pooja Hegde, Dulquer Salmaan Team Up for First On-Screen Pairing

    Pooja Hegde, Dulquer Salmaan Team Up for First On-Screen Pairing

    On December 7, Pooja shared a glimpse posing with Varun Dhawan, with whom she has teamed up for David Dhawan’s next film…reports Asian Lite News

    Actress Pooja Hegde is rumoured to star alongside Dulquer Salmaan for a romantic drama.  

    According to a source, the yet-to-be-titled film is expected to go on floors next year, with Pooja and Dulquer playing the lead. This will mark the first on-screen pairing of the two actors.

    A source shared: “It’s a romantic drama with a unique narrative, and the makers couldn’t think of a better duo to headline the project. Both Pooja and Dulquer have an incredible fan base, and this pairing is bound to create magic on screen.”

    On December 7, Pooja shared a glimpse posing with Varun Dhawan, with whom she has teamed up for David Dhawan’s next film

    The film is tentatively titled ‘Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’. The actress took to the Stories section of her Instagram, and gave a glimpse into her camaraderie with Varun. The actress shared a picture along with Varun, and wrote, “This duo is dreaming of bread”.

    She followed it up with, “Chalo post our next schedule maybe?”

    On December 3, she wrapped up the first schedule of David Dhawan’s tentatively titled “Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai”.

    The film, expected to release in 2025, is said to feature Pooja in a glamorous role amidst a fresh and hilarious storyline. The actress has been juggling her time between Mumbai and Chennai, simultaneously shooting for Thalapathy 69, where she stars opposite Thalapathy Vijay.

    A source confirmed: “It’s been a whirlwind schedule for Pooja as she shuttles between cities, ensuring that every project gets her best.”

    “Her commitment and energy are truly commendable. She has wrapped her first schedule of the film and will be shooting abroad for a month early next year for the next schedule.”

    She will be next seen in the high-octane action thriller ‘Deva’ opposite Shahid Kapoor and is part of major South Indian projects, including ‘Suriya 44’ and ‘Thalapathy 69’.

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  • Global Cyclists Gear Up for UAE’s Major Cycling Events in 2025

    Global Cyclists Gear Up for UAE’s Major Cycling Events in 2025

    The third edition of the UAE Tour Women the only international cycling race in the Middle East as part of the UCI World Tour series, will kick off over four stages across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra regions, in addition to Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE is set to host two major sporting events in February 2025, as the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, in collaboration with the International Cycling Union, will organise the UAE Tour Women from 6 to 9 February, and the UAE Tour from 17 to 23 February.

    The two international events will feature the participation of some of the world’s most talented female and male cyclists in an exciting and challenging competition.

    The third edition of the UAE Tour Women the only international cycling race in the Middle East as part of the UCI World Tour series, will kick off over four stages across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and the Al Dhafra regions, in addition to Dubai.

    This event aims to highlight the rapid growth of women’s cycling in the region, as shown through the participation of a number of international women’s teams. It also seeks to enhance the UAE’s position as a major destination for organising women’s sporting events on a global scale.

    The seventh edition of the UAE Tour, the only international cycling race in the Middle East as part of the UCI World Tour series, will be held from 17 to 23 February 2025. The race includes seven diverse stages, including mountainous, desert and urban city routes, reflecting the geographical and cultural diversity of the UAE. This event represents a significant opportunity to promote the country’s unique tourist destinations and showcase its advanced infrastructure which meets the highest international standards for hosting major sporting events.

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  • Low-calorie, low-fat snacks see growth as millets surge in India

    Low-calorie, low-fat snacks see growth as millets surge in India

    Low-calorie, low-fat snacks see growth as millets surge in India

    Mumbai, Dec 11 (IANS) Low-calorie and low-fat snacks are seeing significant growth as millets are being increasingly used in India, according to a report on Wednesday.

    The report by NielsenIQ (NIQ), the world’s leading consumer intelligence company, showed that low-calorie, low-fat, and gut-health-focused products dominate, with one in five snacks linked to health.

    Millets and mindful snacking are on the rise, alongside health-oriented consumer tech.

    It also showed a cultural influence from South Korea. Personal care and food innovations inspired by Korea have gained traction, emphasising unique flavours and textures.

    The report noted a growth in demand for sustainably sourced FMCG, and energy-efficient consumer tech tailored to local needs, urbanisation has been fueling the demand for innovative, high-quality products that simplify life.

    NIQ Consumer Survey reveals that 34 per cent of urban consumers prioritise new product availability and 40 per cent — especially Gen-Z and women — actively seek innovation claiming to shop for new products before the others did.

    “The appetite for novelty is undeniable. For brands, this presents a strategic opportunity to capture consumer interest and drive sustained growth through meaningful and timely innovations,” said Vidya Sen, Executive Director, Customer Success – BASES, NielsenIQ​ said.

    NielsenIQ also celebrated the winners of the 2024 Breakthrough Innovation Awards, at a recent event, honouring brands that have disrupted the market and captivated consumers with exceptional new product launches.

    These award-winning products launched between 2022 and 2023 and have successfully navigated an ever-evolving consumer landscape.

    Since 2012, more than 900 FMCG brands globally have been recognised with this prestigious honour, including about 140 innovations in India across categories like food and beverages (48 per cent) and personal and home care (52 per cent). This year, NIQ also recognised tech and durables brands in India for their groundbreaking achievements in product development and market success.

  • Indian pharmas set to make further progress in US market

    Indian pharmas set to make further progress in US market

    Indian pharmaceutical companies, which benefited from sector tailwinds such as stable generic pricing and shortage-led opportunities and stable costs of raw materials in the past 18-24 months, will make further progress in differentiated and complex generics in the US market in 2025, a report showed on Wednesday.

    According to a note by HSBC Global Research, these tailwinds are projected to continue in 2025 as well given that “we don’t see major changes on the demand-supply dynamics.”

    “In 2025, we assume Indian companies will make further progress in differentiated/complex generics (peptides, inhalers) in the US with the potential launches of gAbraxane, gAdvair inhaler and peptides, etc,” according to the note.

    Progress in complex generics and biosimilars will likely remain in focus as they will be crucial in navigating gRevlimid fall and sustain growth.

    Amid the tailwind of steady generic pricing, “we believe the execution of key launches (gAbraxane for Cipla) will determine the course of the US sales in 2025.”

    According to HSBC, Indian companies will start their journey in GLP-1 drugs with the launch of generic liraglutide (though generics for new-gen GLP-1 drugs are distant in the US).

    “We assume the Indian pharma market (IPM) continues to grow by high-single digits, led by price increase and new launches,” it added.

    In other markets too (India and emerging market), companies continue to focus on differentiated opportunities such as OTC products, biosimilars and patented products.

    For India’s formulations business, the global research firm assumed that the broader Indian pharma market (IPM) grows at a high single digit range.

    “The growth contributions from price hikes (4-6 per cent) and new launches (2-3 per cent) should remain steady. We assume contribution from volume growth to largely stay in the low single digit range,” said HSBC.

    Earlier this month, the Union government approved a financial outlay of Rs 15,000 crore for the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for pharmaceuticals, aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing.

  • Omar Abdullah Reviews Heritage Projects in J&K

    Omar Abdullah Reviews Heritage Projects in J&K

    Omar Abdullah also directed the department to revive the restoration of Naagar Nagar at the foothills of Hari Parbat, a project halted a decade ago, to save its deteriorating walls…reports Asian Lite News

    J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday chaired a review meeting of the Department of Culture focusing on revitalising Jammu and Kashmir’s cultural heritage and infrastructure.

    Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister emphasised the original vision behind the conceptualisation of Tehzeeb Mahal in Srinagar, underscoring its role in promoting local artists.

    “Tehzeeb Mahal must serve as a space where artists can showcase their talent while preserving its core theme. Wherever possible, the available space should be expanded to align with this vision,” he said.

    Omar Abdullah also directed the department to revive the restoration of Naagar Nagar at the foothills of Hari Parbat, a project halted a decade ago, to save its deteriorating walls.

    Speaking on the need for a comprehensive Cultural Policy for J&K, the Chief Minister urged the department to consult stakeholders.

    “Engage with the stakeholders to formalise a robust Cultural Policy,” he added.

    He also called for immediate filling of departmental vacancies to ensure seamless functioning.

    Earlier, Principal Secretary Culture presented a detailed overview of the department’s functioning, highlighting its initiatives through directorates such as Archives, Archaeology & Museums, Libraries and Research, and the Academy of Art, Culture & Languages.

    “The progress on various key projects was reviewed, including the restoration of Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex and archival repositories,” an official statement said.

    The meeting was informed about the digitisation of archival records which has been fully completed in Jammu and is 50 per cent complete in Srinagar, with six lakh records being shifted to a new facility near Kala Kendra at a cost of Rs 7.2 crore.

    The meeting also discussed the 100-day target for cultural and heritage development in Jammu and Srinagar.

    Key initiatives include the operationalization of a new archival repository, modernization of the SRS Library under the Smart City Project, restoration of 16 heritage sites, and the completion of several library and cultural infrastructure projects. A special presentation on Tehzeeb Mahal gave details of its design, architectural heritage revival, and cultural elements, further reinforcing the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting J&K’s rich legacy.

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  • Free Period Products Now Available at 16 Locations Across Brent 

    Free Period Products Now Available at 16 Locations Across Brent 

    Councillor Donnelly-Jackson:  “This initiative is not just about products; it’s about dignity, education, and equality. Together, we can ensure no one in Brent has to face the challenges of period poverty alone.” 

    In a significant step towards combating period poverty, Brent Council has expanded its free period product initiative, making eco-friendly menstrual supplies available at 16 sites across the borough. 

    This initiative, launched in partnership with Hey Girls, aims to ensure equitable access to period products, especially for residents facing financial hardships due to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. The products are available at Family Wellbeing Centres, libraries, and Brent Hubs, offering both disposable and reusable options to suit diverse needs. 

    Brent Council made history in 2021 by becoming the first London borough to install vending machines dispensing free period products in public buildings. This latest expansion builds on that foundation, reaching more residents and ensuring no one has to choose between essential menstrual products and other basic needs. 

    Councillor Fleur Donnelly-Jackson, Cabinet Member for Resident Support and Culture, emphasized the importance of the scheme: “The cost-of-living crisis has pushed many families to the brink, leaving them struggling to make ends meet. Some are forced to prioritise other essentials over menstrual supplies, leading to disruptions in education and daily life. No one should have to choose between basic necessities and period products. We are committed to providing women and girls with the products they need to support their well-being and confidence.” 

    The free products, including sustainably sourced disposable pads and tampons as well as reusable menstrual cups, are now available at: 

    • Eight Family Wellbeing Centres 

    • Six Libraries 

    • Brent Hub: The Living Room 

    • Brent Hub: Kilburn 

    The council’s partnership with Hey Girls, a social enterprise focused on tackling period poverty, ensures that the products provided are not only free but also eco-friendly and responsibly sourced. 

    A representative from Hey Girls praised Brent Council’s dedication to the cause: “Hey Girls are pleased and proud to be working with Brent Council on their Period Dignity initiative. Our organic and responsibly sourced period products, coupled with educational resources, aim to remove shame and stigma surrounding periods and bring awareness to menstrual health across the borough.” 

    Hey Girls has also trained council staff and provided free online educational tools, further embedding menstrual health awareness into the community. 

    The Period Dignity Brent campaign reflects the council’s broader commitment to tackling health inequalities and supporting community well-being. By ensuring that menstrual products are freely available, the council hopes to alleviate barriers that disproportionately impact women and girls, such as disruptions to education and employment. 

    In addition to free menstrual products, the participating locations offer a wide range of support services, including advice on housing, benefits, health, and welfare. This integrated approach ensures that residents can access multiple forms of assistance in one place. 

    Brent’s initiative is part of a wider movement to address period poverty and promote menstrual health. By making period products accessible and breaking the stigmas surrounding menstruation, the council hopes to set a positive example for other boroughs to follow. 

    The scheme underscores Brent Council’s commitment to creating an inclusive community where no one is left behind. For more information about the initiative and resources available, residents can visit participating sites or contact their local Family Wellbeing Centre. 

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  • You Are Under Watch 

    You Are Under Watch 

    Major CCTV Upgrade Transforms London’s Safety Network…reports Asian Lite News 

    London’s streets are under sharper watch than ever before, thanks to a £30 million investment by Mayor Sadiq Khan to overhaul the city’s CCTV infrastructure.  

    The ambitious project has delivered over 300 new and upgraded cameras, producing high-definition footage to improve public safety and enhance crime prevention efforts across the capital. 

    This substantial funding is part of the Connected London programme, which focuses on expanding full-fibre connectivity to hard-to-reach areas. The investment not only improves CCTV capabilities but also supports a range of innovative public services, including air quality monitoring, traffic congestion management, and enhanced neighbourhood policing. 

    Mayor Khan emphasized the importance of technology in maintaining this progress: “As a thriving global city, it’s essential that London’s digital infrastructure is kept fully updated. These new and upgraded CCTV cameras will improve safety after dark and help present stronger evidence in criminal trials. I’m committed to working with the police, partners, and businesses to create a safer London for everyone.” 

    The state-of-the-art CCTV cameras now deliver clearer, real-time images that can be accessed by local councils, Transport for London (TfL), and the Metropolitan Police. With sharper footage, authorities can better identify suspects, reduce response times, and provide stronger evidence in criminal trials. 

    Commander Owain Richards of the Met Police highlighted the significance of the upgrades: 

    “These improvements give our officers the tools they need to crack down on crime and bring perpetrators to justice. The Met will continue to work with the Mayor and partners to ensure London remains a safer place.” 

    The improvements are part of a broader strategy to integrate technology into crime prevention under the New Met for London Plan, which is being supported by record investment from City Hall. 

    Councils across London have embraced the new technology. In Merton, for instance, 55 new cameras have been installed, powered by upgraded fibre infrastructure. These enhancements have enabled real-time video feeds, helping CCTV operators identify offenders and tip off police in critical moments. 

    Councillor Edith Macauley MBE, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety in Merton, praised the programme: “The full HD quality images on our static and mobile cameras make identifying crimes and offenders much easier. This has been crucial in preventing crime, responding to incidents faster, and bringing criminals to justice.” 

    The borough’s upgrades have also reduced running costs, allowing resources to be redirected to other community safety initiatives. 

    The Connected London programme extends beyond surveillance. It includes the deployment of sensors to monitor air quality and manage traffic congestion. These advancements are part of a broader effort to create a smarter, more connected city. 

    Shashi Verma, Chief Technology Officer at TfL, emphasized the wider benefits of the project: “Our work to expand fibre connectivity across London is delivering tangible benefits for Londoners. These upgrades not only support public safety but also unlock growth opportunities and better use of digital technology for all.” 

    The CCTV upgrades complement other safety measures in London, such as enhanced neighbourhood policing. City Hall credits these efforts with contributing to a reduction in violent crime across the capital. 

    According to the latest Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures, violent crime rates in London are lower than in the rest of England and Wales. Personal robbery has dropped by 5% in the last year, and crimes such as burglary, gun crime, and knife-related injuries among under-25s have all declined since 2016. 

    The £30 million investment is more than an upgrade—it’s a commitment to building a safer, smarter London. By combining cutting-edge technology with enhanced public services, the initiative aims to set a new standard for urban safety and connectivity. 

    From high-definition CCTV cameras to advanced sensors, London’s streets are becoming safer and more efficient, ensuring that residents and businesses alike can thrive in a secure environment. 

    With the Mayor pledging continued collaboration with councils, TfL, and the Met Police, this transformation is just the beginning of a safer and smarter future for the capital. 

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  • Riyadh to Invest in Green Projects 

    Riyadh to Invest in Green Projects 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer Secures Major Investments in Green Energy To Support UK Jobs…reports Asian Lite News

    Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer arrived in Saudi Arabia today following high-level meetings in the UAE. During his visit, the Prime Minister emphasised strengthening ties with Gulf partners to deliver tangible benefits for working people across the UK. 

    Starmer highlighted immediate gains for the North of England, including a transformative partnership between Manchester-based Graphene Innovation Manchester (GIM) and Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Giga-Project. The collaboration will launch the world’s first commercial production of graphene-enriched carbon fibre, an eco-friendly material that aims to revolutionise advanced manufacturing. 

    The £250 million investment in a research and innovation hub in Greater Manchester is expected to create over 1,000 skilled jobs, cementing the region’s role as a global leader in sustainable materials. 

    Speaking in Riyadh, the Prime Minister stressed his commitment to linking international partnerships with local regeneration: 

    “Every region and nation in the United Kingdom should feel the impact of our Plan for Change. My international agenda starts at home, ensuring that diplomacy delivers real jobs, growth, and opportunities for people across the UK.” 

    The visit also marked significant strides in the UK-Saudi green energy partnership. Oxford-based private equity fund HYCAP has pledged £785 million to develop hydrogen mobility clusters across the UK, including Northern Ireland, creating over 1,000 jobs and supporting Saudi Arabia’s net-zero ambitions by 2060. 

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his accompanying delegation arrived at King Khalid International Airport on Monday night. He was received by Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz, Saudi Ambassador to the UK Prince Khalid bin Bandar bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Commerce Dr. Majid Al-Kassabi (the accompanying minister), Mayor of Riyadh Region Prince Dr. Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf, Ambassador of the UK to Saudi Arabia Neil Crompton, Acting Director of the Riyadh Region Police Major General Mansour bin Nasser Al-Otaibi, and Deputy Chief of Royal Protocol Fahad Al-Suhail.

    Additionally, the UK and Saudi Arabia announced plans to establish a Joint International Institute for Clean Hydrogen. This collaboration, led by universities from both nations, including Newcastle University, will advance clean energy expertise and innovation. North East Mayor Kim McGuinness is accompanying the Prime Minister to secure further green energy investments. 

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband praised the agreements: “These investments in clean energy demonstrate how our Plan for Change can create new jobs, boost energy independence, and position the UK as a global clean energy superpower.” 

    Other notable agreements include: 

    • A partnership between UK-based cleantech leader Carbon Clean and Saudi firm Aramco to advance carbon capture technologies, projected to generate 2,000 UK jobs. 

    • A £200 million investment over five years by Next Generation SCM and Saudi Arabia’s City Cement Company to produce sustainable concrete, supporting 200 jobs. 

    • A £41 million Saudi investment in regenerating Brunswick Mill in Greater Manchester, providing 277 flats and commercial outlets, aligned with the Prime Minister’s goal to build 1.5 million homes. 

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