Farmer's Bus Journey: EPS Condemns Stalin in Mayiladuthurai Delta Campaign

Mayiladuthurai (Tamil Nadu) [India], July 18 (ANI):AIADMK General Secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami (EPS) issued a harsh critique of the current administrationDMK and Chief Minister MK Stalinduring a high-voltage campaign in the Delta region as part of the "Let's Protect the People, Let's Save"Tamil Nadu" tour, AIADMKmentioned in a press statement.

Speaking to a big crowd in Melamukoodal, within the Poombuhar constituency,EPSreplied to Stalin's latest comment, referring to his campaign bus as "Sundaram Travels," and said, "Yes, I came by bus - because I am a"farmer. This is the type of vehicle I will always use for travel. However, you, Stalin, can afford to travel in Benz cars, helicopters, or even private jets. You have 8,000 crore rupees in your family trust.

The AIADMKleader, traveling in an open campaign vehicle amidst enthusiastic crowds along the path from Keezhmukoodal to Melamukoodal, blamed theDMK government of betraying farmers and merely rebranding AIADMK-initiated welfare projects.

The office of the District Collector in this area was approved by theAIADMK. The DMKsimply placed a sticker on it and took the credit," he claimed.

EPSfurther alleged that the governing party is trying to take over farmlands via methane and ethane gas initiatives and commended the formerAIADMKsystem for designating the Delta area as a safeguarded farming region.

He lambasted the DMKfailure of the government in acquiring rice efficiently.

Farmers are compelled to pile their rice sacks in open areas. They are getting soaked by the rain while the government turns a blind eye. At collection centers,farmerThey are forced to pay a Rs 60 bribe per sack. Is this the type of government we require?" he asked. "In our administration,"farmerIt has fair pricing. Now, there's only indifference and abuse.

EPS also slammed the DMKHis track record of promises versus actions, noting that fewer than 10 percent of the party's election pledges have been completed. "All Stalin does is present a plan each day and take pictures. If there was a Nobel Prize for deception, it should be awarded to him," he remarked.

Focusing on broken commitments,EPSsaid, "Stalin pledged to formalize part-time educators but did not follow through after assuming power. That's his contradictory approach. They also halted the free laptop initiative for students in government schools. When"AIADMKcomes back to power, we will start distributing laptops again.

Under the 100-day job initiative, he mentioned, "It has now been cut down to only 50 days. The central government has repeatedly requested information, but the state government is not providing it."

EPSexpressed worries about the worsening law and order situation and increasing drug trafficking throughoutTamil NaduFor three years, we have been highlighting this problem. Now Stalin states, 'don't fall into the drug trap.' In doing so, he is acknowledging that the country is overwhelmed by drugs.

A sharp critique of Stalin's son andDMK youth wing leader Udhayanidhi Stalin, EPSsaid: "What has Udhayanidhi contributed to the"DMK? Senior leaders like Duraimurugan worked for many years and were not appointed as Deputy Chief Minister. Is there any democracy in...DMK?"

He further stated, "I did not gain my position because of my father's name. I put in the effort, progressed gradually, and achieved this role. The journey you took is not the same as mine." (ANI)

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Iraq Mall Fire Claims at Least 60 Lives

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A fire swept through a recently opened shopping mall in the eastern Iraqi city of Kut during the night, resulting in the death of at least 61 individuals, according to officials on Thursday, as heartbroken families continued their search for loved ones who went missing.

Authorities mentioned that numerous individuals suffocated in restroom areas, while a witness reported to AFP that his five family members perished in an elevator.

The fire — the latest in a nation where safety rules are often ignored — erupted late Wednesday, reportedly beginning on the ground floor before quickly spreading to the five-story Corniche Hypermarket Mall.

The reason remained unclear at first, but one survivor reported to AFP that an air conditioner had exploded.

Multiple individuals told AFP that they had lost relatives — and in certain instances, entire families — who had visited the mall to shop and eat just days after it opened in Kut, approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) southeast of Baghdad.

Videos posted on social media depicted individuals, including kids, perched on rooftops, pleading for assistance.

An AFP reporter described witnessing burned remains at the provincial forensic facility.

Ali Kadhim, 51, mentioned that he had been traveling back and forth between the mall and the primary hospital, where the injured were taken, in search of his cousin, who is missing together with his wife and three children.

Back at the shopping center, he nervously awaited as emergency workers scoured the debris for those trapped, with an ambulance ready nearby.

"We are unaware of what occurred to them," he stated.

An AFP reporter on the scene mentioned that the fire had been controlled and the front part of the structure was heavily burned.

The interior ministry stated in a release that "the devastating fire resulted in the deaths of 61 innocent individuals, with many suffocating in the bathrooms, and 14 bodies that were burned and remain unidentified."

'We couldn't escape' The official INA news agency later cited a medical source who reported 63 fatalities and 40 people injured.

The provincial governor of Wasit, Mohammed al-Miyahi, informed INA that the victims comprised men, women, and children.

A healthcare official in Kut informed AFP that there were "numerous unidentified corpses."

More than 45 individuals were rescued by civil defense teams from within the building, which houses a restaurant and a supermarket, according to the interior ministry.

The main hospital's ward was overcrowded, while in other areas, an AFP reporter observed heartbroken family members waiting at the forensic unit for updates, with some falling to the ground in sorrow.

A man broke down, beating his chest and shouting.

Dr. Nasir al-Quraishi, a man in his 50s, mentioned that he lost five relatives in the blaze.

A catastrophe has occurred," he said to AFP. "We went to the mall to have some food, have dinner, and avoid power outages at home.

An air conditioner burst on the second floor, and then the fire broke out — and we were unable to flee.

Lax safety regulations Moataz Karim, aged 45, hurried to the shopping center at midnight, only to learn the heartbreaking information that three of his family members had gone missing.

Several hours later, he recognized the burnt remains of two family members, one of whom had started employment at the mall three days prior.

"No fire suppression system is in place," he said with anger, waiting for more updates outside the forensic department.

Iraq's construction industry frequently ignores safety regulations, and the nation, which has suffered from deteriorating infrastructure due to years of warfare, regularly faces deadly fires and incidents.

Blazes become more frequent during the scorching summer when temperatures reach up to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit).

In September 2023, a fire resulted in the death of at least 100 individuals as it spread through a packed Iraqi wedding venue, causing a frantic rush towards the exits.

In July 2021, a fire broke out in the Covid-19 ward of a hospital in southern Iraq, resulting in over 60 fatalities.

Governor Miyahi stated that local officials would initiate legal action against the mall's proprietor and the construction company.

"The tragedy came as a significant shock... and demands a thorough examination of all safety protocols," he stated.

The authorities announced a three-day period of remembrance.

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has called for a "comprehensive investigation" into the fire to uncover "flaws" and avoid similar occurrences.

Numerous nations, such as Egypt, Iran, and France, extended their sympathies to Iraq and the families of the victims.

The U.S. embassy in Baghdad also expressed "its most sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims."

In September 2023, a fire resulted in the deaths of at least 100 individuals as it spread through a packed Iraqi wedding venue, causing a frantic rush toward the exits.

In July 2021, a fire broke out in the Covid ward of a hospital in southern Iraq, resulting in the deaths of over 60 individuals.

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Japanese Traveler Anxiety Rises Amid China's Espionage Arrests

Five of the 17 Japanese citizens arrested recently in China on allegations of espionage or other offenses since 2015 remain incarcerated in Chinese prisons.

The detention and legal action against Japanese nationals inChinais increasing public worry and discouraging visits,JapanThe government has issued a warning, with scholars and business professionals stating they are either implementing safeguards or refraining from travel entirely.

Tokyo voiced its worry on Wednesday following a Beijing court's decision to sentence a Japanese worker from the pharmaceutical company Astellas Pharma to three years and six months in prison for espionage.

A man, whose name has not been disclosed but is said to be in his sixties, was first arrested in March 2023 while he was getting ready to depart China after being employed there. He wasindicted last August, and the initial court appearance in his case occurred three months later.

The court hearing held on Wednesday was closed to the media, although representatives from the Japanese embassy in Beijing were allowed to be present, according to Jiji Press.

It is deeply regrettable that a guilty verdict was handed down," said Japanese Ambassador to China Kenji Kanasugi to reporters following the court session. "We will keep strongly advocating for his early release and provide him with all possible support.

Later in the day in Tokyo, a spokesperson from the foreign ministry stated that the detention of Japanese citizens "has emerged as a significant obstacle to people-to-people interactions ... and progress in public opinion," according to Jiji Press.

The official urged China to "increase the openness" of its legal processes, considering that the hearings in this case have taken place in secret and limited evidence has been disclosed.

As per the foreign ministry, 17 Japanese citizens have been detained in China on allegations of espionage or other offenses since 2015. Five are still incarcerated.

In 2014, Beijing implemented stringent anti-espionage laws and urged citizens to alert authorities about potential risks to national security. Critics argue that the legislation is ambiguously written, allowing for wide-ranging interpretations regarding what constitutes a threat to national security.

"I would never go to China, whether for business or a holiday," stated Ken Kato, a businessman based in Tokyo who also serves as a director at Human Rights in Asia and is known for his strong criticism of arbitrary imprisonment by governments in the area.

"I have been frequently cited regarding my human rights efforts, and I believe it's highly probable that I would be detained if I attempted to enter China," he stated to This Week in Asia.

I believe many Japanese individuals look at this kind of news and feel hesitant about visiting a country where they might face numerous inquiries and possibly be detained for several years.

Data regarding Japanese residents in China supports this. In 2018, over 140,000 Japanese people were living in China. Last year, as reported by the Nikkei newspaper, this number had decreased to 97,538.

Japanese executives sent to China to operate in regional offices are reportedly seeking different assignments, mainly because of assaults on their relatives in recent years.

Assaults on Japanese

Last June, a Chinese individual attacked a Japanese woman and her child while they were waiting at a school bus stop in Suzhou, using aChinese woman who eventually succumbed to her injuriesShe continued to struggle while attempting to safeguard the child. In September, a 10-year-old boy passed away following a stabbing near his school in Shenzhen.

"Japanese families are no longer willing to take that risk, and the chance of being arrested on ambiguous espionage charges only makes it less attractive," Kato said.

Maya Hamada, a Chinese literature professor at Kobe University, traveled to China in late April to participate in an academic conference in Fuzhou and acknowledged that she took necessary measures before departing Japan.

I have been to China many times, and I wouldn't claim to be anxious about going there, but I am cautious about my words and actions during my visits. I also opted for a short-term tourist visa this time, which I believe is more secure than entering the country on a work visa," she mentioned.

I also feel secure because I am studying Chinese literature, which is not contentious, but professors in fields like politics, economics, or international relations, for instance, need to be more cautious.

Several instances have occurred where Chinese scholars studying at Japanese universities were held in custody following short trips back to their native country.

Among the most notable individuals who vanished was Yuan Keqin, a faculty member at Hokkaido University of Education, who was arrested in 2019 and later accused of espionage. In May of last year, a court in Jilin province handed down a six-year prison sentence to him.

This policy is harmful as it only damages the relationship between China and Japan and likely harms China more," stated Kato. "Businesspeople are unwilling to visit; professors no longer feel secure and cannot collaborate with Chinese scholars; and no Japanese individual wishes to travel there due to the fear of potential arrest.

Maybe it's time for Japan to enact comparable espionage laws and begin detaining Chinese individuals so we can facilitate prisoner swaps.

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Coconut Water Benefits for Gout Sufferers

Coconut water provides various health advantages for individuals with gout, such as aiding in the removal of uric acid, restoring essential minerals, and decreasing inflammation.

Gout is a metabolic condition that leads to an excess of uric acid in the bloodstream, creating crystals that gather in the joints, leading to discomfort and swelling. Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from Nutrihome Nutrition Clinic suggests that, along with adhering to a physician's treatment regimen, individuals with gout should avoid foods high in purines, consume ample water, and adopt a balanced way of life to control the illness. Coconut water is one beverage that can aid in these efforts.

A person with a coconut. Illustration image by Pexels

High in potassium, magnesium, vitamin C, and natural electrolytes, coconut water is packed with nutrients and possesses anti-inflammatory effects. When taken in suitable quantities, it provides the following advantages for individuals with gout:

1. Assists in the removal of uric acid

Coconut water possesses gentle diuretic effects, leading to increased urine production and aiding in the removal of uric acid from the body. This improved excretion helps lower the chances of urate crystals developing in the joints, thus easing gout-related discomfort.

2. Restores essential minerals and regulates acid-base equilibrium

Coconut water is rich in potassium and bicarbonate, which assist in keeping the body's pH level balanced. An alkaline setting can counteract uric acid, reducing the chances of crystal development. For individuals with gout who use diuretics, coconut water also aids in restoring electrolytes and avoiding low potassium levels.

3. Offers inherent anti-inflammatory benefits

Coconut water includes antioxidants and enzymes that may assist in lowering minor joint inflammation caused by gout. Although it shouldn't take the place of prescribed medication, it can ease discomfort and reduce flare-ups when used alongside a balanced diet.

4. Diminishes the desire for unhealthy drinks

Gout sufferers are advised to steer clear of sugary soft drinks or alcohol, as both can increase uric acid levels. Coconut water serves as a better option, since it lacks purines, has minimal sugar content, and may help curb desires for these detrimental drinks.

5. Supports kidney function

Patients with gout are vulnerable tokidney dysfunctioncaused by the long-term buildup of uric acid. Consuming adequate water, particularly effective choices such as coconut water, aids the kidneys in processing blood and removing waste more effectively.

Dr. Tung suggests that individuals with gout should steer clear ofoverconsuming coconut waterThe recommended quantity is one small coconut daily, ideally consumed in the morning or afternoon. To avoid frequent urination during the night, it's advisable not to drink coconut water in the evening. Individuals suffering from ailments like diabetes, imbalances in electrolytes, or kidney disorders should seek medical advice before incorporating coconut water into their regimen.

Besides consuming coconut water, individuals with gout should reduce their intake of animal-based proteins, steer clear of alcoholic beverages, participate in mild physical activity, and undergo routine medical examinations to track uric acid levels, glucose levels, and cholesterol. Controlling body weight is equally important to avoid obesity and insulin resistance, both of which can exacerbate gout symptoms.

Patients are advised to see their physician frequently, particularly during periods of intense symptoms, to maintain proper control over their health condition. Adding natural supplements such as eggshell membrane extract, type II collagen, hydrolyzed collagen peptides, chondroitin sulfate, and turmeric root extract may offer further wellness advantages, aiding in pain reduction, decreasing inflammation, encouraging cartilage repair, and lowering the likelihood of joint deterioration associated with gout.

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Return to Roots: Vietnamese Abroad Flock Back Home

Minh Tam's choice to go back to Vietnam following eight years in Canada surprised her family and friends, who considered it a "wild plan."

At the age of 30, Tam had a secure job and a stable life in Canada. She stated that she didn't encounter any difficulties in adapting to Canadian society, except for a persistent sense that, over time, she never truly felt she belonged.

Living by herself, she spent her days conducting research at a university and her evenings and weekends working a part-time job at a shopping mall. There were weeks when she worked seven days straight, starting early and coming back late. Her daily routine involved purchasing roasted chicken, vegetables, and bread from the supermarket.

"A life that is lonely and monotonous," she says.

Tam's choice to go back to Vietnam was shaped by two significant events. While visiting her homeland in 2023, she experienced a strong sense of longing as the plane touched down at Hanoi's Noi Bai Airport.

"Only after I stepped into my homeland did the yearning emerge," she remembers.

The second incident took place when she had a dream in which her parents were weeping and begged her to remain. After waking, she looked out the window at the moving delonix trees and understood that, just like the blossoms, she was part of Vietnam.

Tam is a member of an increasing number of returning migrants—individuals who previously lived abroad but chose to come back to their native country. According to theMigration Profile VietnamA report from the International Organization for Migration indicates that approximately 500,000 Vietnamese individuals return to their home country from overseas annually, with 25,000 of them being former emigrants.

This movement is gaining momentum in tandem with Vietnam's economic development and higher quality of life.

Vietnamese people living abroad were welcomed by their families at HCMC's Tan Son Nhat Airport in January 2025 as they returned home for the Tet Lunar New Year. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Nguyen Thi Huong, following years spent in the United States and Australia, also decided to come back to Vietnam, living by herself in a home located in District 8 of Ho Chi Minh City.

The former nurse was left to care for two daughters by herself after her husband passed away. Following her retirement, her children encouraged her to move abroad with them. She relocated to California in the United States in 2019, feeling assured that her English proficiency and friendly nature would enable her to adjust swiftly.

However, she quickly experienced a sense of loneliness. In the United States, her daughter, son-in-law, and grandchildren were occupied with their jobs. Although there was a significant Vietnamese population, it was spread out, and individuals were too preoccupied to engage with one another.

In an effort to fight loneliness, she began taking the bus to a local supermarket, where she met staff who were cold and uninterested, making her feel excluded. This situation caused her to stop going out and interacting with others.

One day, as she was seated in a park, a woman accidentally handed her $10, believing she was in need. This moment caused her to break down emotionally, reinforcing her choice to go back to Vietnam.

Hương's second daughter then invited her to Australia, but life there was also disappointing. The speed of life was too rapid, the housing conditions were inadequate, and her only responsibility was cleaning the yard.

"I felt so isolated that I collected every leaf individually and hesitated to rake them, worried that there would be no more leaves left and no more tasks to occupy me," she remembers.

After spending three months in Australia, Huong was determined to return to Vietnam. In 2023, she came back, renovated her home, and split it into two sections—one for her residence and the other for leasing to a pho restaurant.

Now she takes pleasure in observing people arriving and departing, engaging in conversations in front of the store, and experiences a feeling of calm. Although she needs to have her medications by her bed and her phone nearby for emergencies, Huong states: "For me, this life is what truly feels like living."

A study from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs highlights that numerous second-generation Vietnamese immigrants experience a sense of not fully belonging in their host countries, which leads some to choose to return to Vietnam. In the U.S., 60% of Vietnamese Americans continue to face challenges with language difficulties, cultural adaptation, and social standing.

Dr. Catherine Earl, a social anthropologist affiliated with RMIT University Vietnam, suggests that various elements play a role in reverse migration, beyond just challenges in adjusting to life overseas.

Her studies indicate that in the 21st century, migration is no longer a single-direction process, but involves continuous movement between various locations, such as home countries, places of study, work, marriage, and child-rearing.

Numerous immigrants end up in a state of uncertainty, not completely fitting into any nation. If they are not adequately prepared, they might encounter culture shock and feel out of place regarding language, cuisine, faith, weather, and daily habits in a different country. Some become disheartened when the actual experience falls short of their hopes, while others modify their aspirations after uncovering fresh possibilities, such as going back to their native countries.

Return migration highlights not only individual decisions but also shortcomings in policies concerning education, job opportunities, and cultural adaptation, she states.VnExpress. If Vietnam's education and employment policies are not enhanced, this may result in additional relocation, leading to inefficient use of human resources, interruptions in family ties across generations, and restricted participation on the global stage.

On the other hand, if suitable policies are implemented, returning migrants could have a beneficial impact on the nation's growth.

Thanh Binh, who spent two decades in Regensburg, Germany, chose to go back to Vietnam in 2023.

Thanh Binh during his journey across Vietnam. Photo provided by Binh

Having moved at the age of 10, he is fluent in German and slowly adjusted to Western life. He encountered racial discrimination and school violence, but the majority of his time in Germany was spent in a favorable living environment with steady employment.

Nevertheless, he consistently experienced a sense of emptiness and emotional dissatisfaction that he only encountered in the profound ties of Eastern relationships.

"I began questioning where I genuinely fit in," he states.

Following the death of his close friend in Germany, who left him a message to "live true to your dreams," Binh chose to go back to Vietnam.

This choice came as a shock to his family and friends, particularly since he was near finishing his doctoral studies and had secured a teaching job at a renowned German university. He promised his family that he would give life in Vietnam a two-year test period, with the possibility of returning if circumstances didn't improve.

"At worst, I would gain the experience of residing and working in my native country, which I have always desired," he states.

But when he reached Vietnam, he realized he didn't want to go back.

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Hong Kong's Fundraising Momentum to Stay Strong: Senior Bankers Predict Continued Growth

The sum collected through additional stock offerings amounts to US$31.4 billion in the first half of 2025, surpassing the total for all of 2024.

Energy in the Hong Kong fundraising market that followsinitial public offeringsInitial Public Offerings (IPOs) are expected to remain active, according to senior investment bankers, fueled by the strong capital requirements of companies on the mainland and international investors shifting their focus toward Chinese investments.

The sum collected through follow-on offerings—such as share placements and equity-related debt issues like convertible bonds following initial public offerings—amounted to US$31.4 billion in the first half of this year, as per data from Dealogic. The annual total for 2024 was US$27.9 billion, with the highest ever recorded being US$83.9 billion in 2021.

An increasing number of publicly traded companies, aiming to grow their operations and finance research and development (R&D), have contributed to an optimistic view of capital markets, according to bankers.

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"The present surge in A-to-H IPOs presents a significant chance for most publicly traded companies to explore additional share offerings in order to boost their liquidity," said Jacky Leung, head of Hong Kong coverage atGoldman SachsThe A-to-H trend involves a number of mainland-listed companies selling H-shares in Hong Kong, including an electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer.Contemporary Amperex Technology, which concluded the biggest initial public offering of the year.

"As a bridge for Chinese technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) and industrial firms to reach global capital, especially within a challenging geopolitical environment," was a major reason why companies aimed for additional share offerings, noted Leung, who also holds the position of co-chief operating officer for Goldman's TMT group in Asia, excluding Japan.

"The momentum in fundraising is anticipated to persist, fueled by substantial technology investments," stated Saurabh Dinakar, head of Asia-Pacific global capital markets at Morgan Stanley. The "positive" outlook is expected to stay for the next 12 months, even with possible market fluctuations that might affect investor confidence and delay the flow of deals, he noted.

"The breadth of the Hong Kong market proves effective during times of fluctuation," stated Johnson Chui, managing director and head of global issuer services at Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing, at aconference last week, referencing the overall financial power of initial public offerings and subsequent equity issues.

"The enhanced market performance and increased trading volumes have resulted in a rise in follow-on offerings," stated Goldman's Leung. "Significant capital raising can only occur if the stock has adequate trading liquidity." Goldman ranked first on the Dealogic Asia-Pacific excluding Japan equity capital market league table based on bookrunning volume in the first half of the year and spearheaded Hong Kong's three largest follow-on deals during that time.

Companies that recently conducted significant share offerings included the world's biggest electric vehicle manufacturer.BYD and Xiaomi, which generated US$5.6 billion and US$5.5 billion respectively, in March to fund their international growth and research and development activities.

In June, Horizon Robotics, a mainland Chinese developer specializing in intelligent driving chips, secured approximately US$600 million. That same month, Innovent Biologics and a major Chinese logistics companySF Holdinginitiated stock offerings that generated approximately US$550 million and US$376 million, respectively.

"Currently, there are several large and high-quality Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong, including some that are dual-listed in the US and Hong Kong, which are increasingly securing funding in Hong Kong because of growing stock prices and valuations," mentioned Dinakar from Morgan Stanley. The bank oversaw several significant subsequent equity offerings, such as those for Horizon, Innovent, and Nio.

The city's key Hang Seng Index has risen over 22 percent this year, while the S&P 500 has increased by 6.5 percent.

Although share placements could potentially reduce stock prices because of discounts and increased supply, liquidity usually improved if there was continued investor interest, according to analysts. For instance, BYD's shares dropped 6.8 per cent on March 4 after the company announced a share placement, but they later rose by 9.2 per cent.

All major follow-on offerings this year, including BYD, Xiaomi, SF... have performed strongly, which is expected to boost investor interest," Leung stated. "We have observed a global capital reallocation driven by 'trade realignment' and ongoing international capital inflows.

"Global investors show widespread interest in investing in some of these top-tier companies within their industries," Dinakar stated, noting that foreign capital from pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, and hedge funds has come back to the Hong Kong market following three years of low engagement.

Furthermore, inward flows from mainland Chinese investors have strengthened Hong Kong's stock market.

"As liquidity rises, market depth expands, which further draws in attention and funding," Dinakar stated.

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PDP's Iroko Tree Endures Atiku's Exit – Bode George

Senior leader and Head of the Peoples Democratic Party, Chief Olabode George, stated that even though key members of the party, such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, have left, the party continues to stand strong like an Iroko tree and will endure the challenges.

Chief George made this statement on Thursday evening during his appearance on Channels Television's Politics Today show.

He observed that while an Iroko tree might lose branches, it stayed sturdy following a storm, noting that one person did not constitute a group.

This gathering is like an Iroko tree. When you enter the forest, and an Iroko tree is located in the center of it, regardless of the storm that occurs, some of the smaller trees will be uprooted and disappear. The Iroko tree may lose one or two branches, but after the storm, it stays strong and firm.

"I have been part of this event since the start. I have served as chairman of the National Convention and Director General of the Presidential Campaign. I have traveled throughout this country, moving from place to place in support of the campaign. And I know that in almost every village you visit, you will hear about the PDP. So if you're referring to an individual, that person alone doesn't define a party," he said.

The former National Deputy Chairman of the PDP also mentioned that the party was not the personal domain of any one person, and that the party operated under established regulations, implying that the former Vice President might have departed the party because of its candidacy zoning rules.

Our party does not belong to any single individual. You just informed the public, the audience listening, that he has entered and left the party approximately three or four times. So what? He should continue to be considered one of the founding fathers. If your house is leaking or needs fixing, you stay there, ensure it is properly repaired and strong.

The party's public image holds greater significance than your individual business or personal interests. I have spoken with him and I continue to offer my guidance. What are you aiming to achieve? Due to our party's regulations, it suggests that your main focus is trying to challenge us for the presidential nomination.

"The guidelines within our party are quite clear. When a presidential candidate comes from the North, they serve for eight years. After those eight years, it has to shift to the South. I didn't create these rules. And if you believe your personal freedom is more significant than the corporate interests of this nation, best of luck to you," he stated.

Bode George also mentioned that Atiku might have been the automatic presidential nominee of the PDP in 2007, noting that the individual he had left the party to back was now the President.

And I want to inform you, when Baba Obasanjo was departing in 2007, Atiku would have naturally become the presidential candidate, without any obstacles. Why didn't he receive the nomination then? Ask him what occurred.

"He went to see his friend, whether they were fooling themselves or not, everything came together in the end. Who is now at the villa? He was in Lagos, and he told us that he needed to apologize because he was among those who influenced the outcome to keep Bola Tinubu in power. So, who is currently at the villa? We should have a reverence for God in all our actions in life," he said.

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Fentanyl Expected Back on US-China Trade Talks, Analysts Say

Although the drug was not discussed openly following previous discussions, recent statements indicate that the issue might resurface.

The smuggling of substances used to produce the drug fentanyl - the matter mentioned by the US in itsinitial tariff escalationfacing China in March - is expected to regain attention in upcoming discussions, according to experts, following two prior meetings that seemingly avoided the topic.

Rumors about the drug's inclusion in upcoming discussions were sparked by US President Donald Trump's comments on the matter on Wednesday,making referenceto China's "major measures" - including the risk of the death penalty for smugglers - to limit the flow of chemical precursors across American borders.

If the matter is resolved, some experts believe the strain between the world's two biggest economies might ease further in August, following a 90-day ceasefire reached during May discussions in Geneva. Others showed more hope, predicting a return to the 2020 trade agreement that halted the escalating conflict — though only for a limited time.

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"It makes sense to consider the fentanyl problem as a possible 'third stage' in U.S.-China discussions, especially considering its growing political significance in Washington," noted Matteo Giovannini, senior finance manager at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and a non-resident associate fellow at the Centre for China and Globalisation, a think tank based in Beijing.

Although not typically a trade issue, the fentanyl crisis has become a central national security and public health matter in the US, making it a topic that can be addressed in wider bilateral discussions.

Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid. It has emerged as the primary cause of death among individuals between the ages of 18 and 45 in the United States, as reported by the nation's Drug Enforcement Administration.

Washington, which holds China responsible for the crisis, imposed a 20 percent tax on Chinese products on March 4.

If we observe certain types of agreements regarding fentanyl, it does not indicate that economic tensions have ceased.

Nick Marro, Economist Intelligence Unit

Beijing strongly refuted the United States' allegations and responded by implementing counter-tariffs on specific American imports, such as natural gas, soybeans, and pork.

Prior to the May discussions in Switzerland, reports surfaced that Chinese President Xi Jinping intended to incorporateMinister of Security Affairs Wang Xiaohongwithin the delegation, it sparked rumors that fentanyl would be discussed, although no mention of the topic was made publicly.

Further discussions also appeared to avoid addressing the issue – the initial round resulted in a 90-day ceasefire and the reduction of most taxes, while the second session in London focused on the mutual elimination of export restrictions.

On Thursday, a representative from China's foreign ministry called on Washington to "pursue discussions rooted in equality and mutual respect" if it aimed to resolve the issue.

Nick Marro, the chief economist for Asia at the Economist Intelligence Unit, stated that fentanyl serves as a means for both nations to gain time while working to address more fundamental conflicts.

"If we observe certain types of pacts regarding fentanyl, it doesn't indicate that economic disputes have been resolved," he stated.

It simply indicates that these trade disputes have been postponed once again and will resurface at some point in the future.

Marro cautioned that the U.S. continues to face several structural issues with China, which have often been discussed during talks, such as market restrictions, strict data regulations, and worries about overcapacity and deflation.

Stephen Olson, a former U.S. trade negotiator, mentioned that China could provide purchase agreements during upcoming talks in return for certain concessions, with some reduction in tariffs possibly being enough.

"Especially if these commitments are in sectors that China would likely import regardless, such as soybeans, it may not be a significant compromise for China to make, as long as the purchasing levels are reasonable," Olson stated.

Comments from notable US officials appear to back this theory. Stephen Biegun, the US deputy secretary of state from December 2019 to January 2021,mentioned at the Aspen Security Forumon Wednesday, it was stated that the upcoming US-China trade agreement "is very likely to be similar to" the first-phase deal finalized in January 2020, in which China pledged to purchase an extra $200 billion worth of American products over a two-year period.

But in that agreement, Olson stated, nearly all the compromises were in China's favor — and "there's no way" Beijing would agree to a similar deal.

This time, China must show that it has also obtained benefits from the US, and a significant decrease in tariffs is likely to be high on their agenda.

Giovannini stated that the present bilateral relationship is more complex than previously, encompassing matters beyond trade such as national security,technology competition and global alliances.

"Any new agreement is expected to cover a wider range but be more adaptable in structure, focusing less on monetary amounts and more on consistent systems for handling disagreements," he stated.

On Tuesday, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated to Bloomberg TV that the two nations were "in a very good position" before an anticipated meeting, noting it would be crucial to "proceed and discuss China's market liberalization and the growth of domestic and consumer production within the country."

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This piece was first published in the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), a top news outlet covering China and Asia.

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OSPR Charges Mustapha Hamid in GHC280M Corruption Scandal

The Special Prosecutor's Office (OSP) has brought charges against the former Chief Executive Officer of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, along with six other individuals, in what is being referred to as one of the most significant corruption and money laundering cases in Ghana's history. The suspected scheme, which took place between 2022 and 2024, includes the illegal acquisition of more than GHC280 million from petroleum transporters and oil marketing firms.

A two-page statement issued by the OSP on Wednesday, July 17, 2025, named seven individuals and three companies involved in a complex scheme of extortion and money laundering within the NPA. The OSP stated that the accused used their official roles to misappropriate public funds and work with private organizations.

Principal individuals and organizations charged

The indiviauals charged include:

1. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid– Previous CEO of the NPA
2. Jacob Kwamina Amuah– Head of the Unified Petroleum Pricing Fund (UPPF) and chief executive officer of Propnest, Kel Logistics Ltd, and Kings Energy Ltd
3. Wendy Newman – NPA staff
4. Albert Ankrah– Director, Kel Logistics Ltd
5. Isaac Mensah– Director, Kel Logistics Ltd
6. Bright Bediako-Mensah– Director, Kel Logistics and Kings Energy Ltd
7. Kwaku Aboagye Acquaah– Director, Kings Energy Ltd

The business organizations involved are:

• Propnest Limited
• Kel Logistics Limited
• Kings Energy Limited

Nature of the offence

The OSP indicated that the defendant illegally obtainedGHC280,516,127.19Via a criminal organization that had no legal authority. Abdul-Hamid, Amuah, and Newman are accused of starting the plan, using their roles at the NPA to collect money from fuel transporters and suppliers. According to the OSP, these activities were not approved by any official NPA policy.

From the stolen sum, Amuah is said to have givenGHC24 milliondirectly to Abdul-Hamid from January to December 2024. AdditionallyGHC227.2 millionwas reportedly conveyed through Newman at Amuah's instruction for unknown payment.

Money laundering mechanism

It was discovered through investigations that the defendant used the companies—Propnest Ltd, Kel Logistics Ltd, and Kings Energy Ltd—to launder illegal money. These organizations, along with a wanted director from Kel Logistics Ltd, were allegedly utilized to buy and develop residential properties, obtain oil transportation trucks, and establish fuel stations. According to officials, these actions aimed to hide the source of the illegal earnings.

Legal charges and proceedings

Seven people and three businesses are being charged with a combined total of25 criminal counts, which include:

• Coercion by a Government Employee(Section 151, Offences Against the Person Act, 1960 – Act 29)
• Conspiracy to Engage in Financial Fraud(Section 23 of Act 29 and Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 4 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act, 2020 – Act 1044)
• Money Laundering(Sections 1(1), 1(2), and 4 of Act 1044)

A director from Kel Logistics Ltd, Osei Tutu Adjei, has also been mentioned in the controversy and is currently at large.

The individuals charged have been arrested and are set to appear before the High Court (Criminal Division) in Accra on a date yet to be finalized for their formal responses.

OSP’s assurance

The declaration, authored by Samuel Appiah Darko, Director of Strategy, Research and Communication at the OSP, emphasized the office's dedication to investigating corruption-related crimes "without fear or favor."

The statement further noted that the OSP calls on all public organizations to stay alert and notify about any suspected instances of corruption.

This case represents a major challenge to Ghana's commitment against corruption within the present government and conveys a clear signal regarding responsibility in public roles.

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The post OSP accuses Mustapha Hamid and others of involvement in a GHC280 million corruption and money laundering case. appeared first on The Herald ghana.

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Top 10 European Clubs Earned Most from Selling Players to Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has experienced a surge of talent from European clubs in recent seasons, with Cristiano Ronaldo's transfer to Al-Nassr serving as the trigger for significant moves to occur.

A significant amount of money has been invested in acquiring talent from Europe, with certain clubs experiencing greater effects than others.

In this analysis, we have examined the 10 European football clubs that have generated the highest revenue from selling players to Saudi Arabia.

10. Roma

Roma transferred three athletes to the Saudi Pro League within two years, including Roger Ibanez, who reportedly joined Al-Ahli for €23 million (£19.9m) during the 2023-24 season.

The next year, Houssem Aouar moved to Al-Ittihad for €12 million (£10.4m), while Joao Costa signed with Al-Ittihad for €9 million (£7.8m).

9. Fulham

Fulham's forward Mitrovic concluded a highly productive period with the Cottagers, during which he scored over 100 goals, by making a £50 million transfer to Al-Hilal.

Mitrovic is the sole player that Fulham has transferred to the Saudi Pro League, yet the scale of the deal ranked among the largest, placing them ninth on the list.

=7. Zenit

Zenit has also transferred only one player to the Saudi Pro League, but it was a significant deal. They acquired Brazilian winger Malcom from Barcelona in 2019 for £36 million, and four years later, he moved to Al-Hilal.

The transfer fee was around £51.9 million, making the winger the fourth priciest acquisition in the history of the Saudi Pro League.

=7. Wolves

The most significant transfer of Wolves to the Saudi Pro League was their top player, with Ruben Neves moving to the league for £47 million in 2023.

They subsequently transferred Daniel Podence to Al-Shabab for around £5 million the next season, matching the Molineux team's transfer fee with Zenit on the list.

6. Liverpool

Liverpool weakened their midfield by transferring two key players to the Saudi Pro League in 2023.

Fabinho made the priciest transfer, signing with Al-Ittihad for £40 million in July. Around the same time, captain Jordan Henderson moved to Al-Ettifaq for £12 million, reuniting with former Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard, who was coaching the team then.

5. Chelsea

In 2023, Chelsea transferred two key first-team players to the Saudi Pro League, namely Edouard Mendy and Kalidou Koulibaly.

The first one joined Al-Ahli for £16 million, while Koulibaly transferred to Al-Hilal for £20 million.

The Blues executed a shrewd transfer move the next year, when they sold Angelo Gabriel to Al-Nassr for more than £19 million, even though the winger had never featured for the club. This increased their total sales to Saudi to £55 million.

4. Manchester City

The city has earned roughly £75 million from sales to the Saudi Pro League, with all the assets they released still among the best in their respective fields.

Riyad Mahrez, who remains a dynamic winger, was sold for the highest fee when he joined Al-Ahli in 2023 for £30 million.

Al-Nassr have gained from City's decision to sell star players, as in the same summer, they acquired Aymeric Laporte for an estimated £23.6 million, and later brought in Joao Cancelo for £21.2 million the next year.

3. Paris Saint-Germain

PSGgenerated approximately £89 million from sales to the Saudi Pro League, with a significant portion of that amount locked in a single transaction.

Neymar's transfer to Al-Hilal for £77.8 million represents the largest sum ever paid by a Saudi club in its history.

During the same summer, PSG allowed Georginio Wijnaldum to join Al Ettifaq for about £6.9 million, while Danilo Pereira moved to Al-Ittihad the next year for roughly £4.3 million.

2. Porto

Porto has transferred players worth £95 million – only two – to the Saudi Pro League, marking their largest and fifth-largest exits in history.

The major transfer involved Otavio, an attacking midfielder, who moved to Al-Nassr in 2023 for a fee of £51.9 million.

One year later, Brazilian winger Galeno moved to Al-Ahli for £43.2 million.

Porto have recently reacquired some talent from Saudi Arabia, acquiring Gabri Veiga from Al-Ahli, following the 23-year-old's move to the club from Celta Vigo in 2023.

1. Aston Villa

The Villa club has completed two significant transfers to the Saudi Pro League, ranking as the second and third most costly signings in the league's history.

A long-standing story involving Jhon Duran in January concluded with the forward's £71 million transfer to Al-Nassr, although he has since moved on to Fenerbahce.

That occurred six months after Moussa Diaby moved to Al Ittihad in a deal valued slightly above £50 million.

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