“COP28 Commences in Dubai, Urgent Calls for Accelerated Climate Action”

DUBAI: Up to 200 global leaders will join over 80,000 delegates gathered in Dubai for the UN climate conference as governments prepare for negotiations on whether to agree, for the first time, to phase out fossil fuels – the main source of global warming.With finance also high on the meeting agenda, the COP28 presidency has published a proposal on the eve of the summit for countries to formally adopt the outlines of a new UN fund to cover losses and damages in poor countries being hit by climate disasters like extreme flooding or persistent drought.

Countries at the UN COP28 climate summit on Thursday formally approved a deal on a new climate disaster fund.The deal was adopted following the COP28 opening ceremony, drawing a standing ovation from delegates.Representatives from developed and developing countries painstakingly crafted the agreement during negotiations this year. It will launch a fund to help vulnerable nations cope with the cost of climate-driven damage from drought, floods and rising seas.UN weather agency says 2023 is the hottest year on record, warns of further climate extremes ahead.

The UN weather agency said Thursday that 2023 is all but certain to be the hottest year on record, and warning of worrying trends that suggest increasing floods, wildfires, glacier melt, and heat waves in the future.The World Meteorological Organization also warned that the average temperature for the year is up some 1.4°C from pre-industrial times – a mere one-tenth of a degree under a target limit for the end of the century as laid out by the Paris climate accord in 2015.

The WMO secretary-general said the onset earlier this year of El Niño, the weather phenomenon marked by heating in the Pacific Ocean, could tip the average temperature next year over the 1.5°C target cap set in Paris.

Turkiye’s Erdogan says Iraq sees need to eliminate Kurdish PKK militia.

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said in remarks published on Tuesday he believed Iraq saw the need to eliminate the Kurdish PKK militia and had the will to do so, adding Ankara wanted Baghdad’s support in that battle. Erdogan was speaking after talks in Baghdad and Irbil on Monday, the first visit by a Turkish leader to Iraq since 2011, following years of tensions as Ankara carried out cross-border attacks on PKK militants based in northern Iraq.

Ties between the neighbors were entering a new phase, Erdogan said, after they agreed to cooperate against militants, boost economic ties via a new corridor and consider Iraq’s needs for access to scarce water. Speaking to reporters on his flight back from Iraq, Erdogan said Turkiye’s battle with terrorism would continue in line with international law, and added he hoped to see concrete results of Baghdad labeling the PKK a “banned organization” last month. The PKK, designated a terrorist group by Turkiye, the US and the European Union, took up arms against the Turkish state in 1984. More than 40,000 people have been killed in the insurgency. The conflict was long fought mainly in rural areas of southeastern Turkiye but is now more focused on the mountains of northern Iraq’s mountainous, semi-autonomous Kurdistan region. “One would hope that our neighbors put the necessary stance forward against the threats directed at us from their lands, and we continue this battle jointly,” Erdogan said, according to a text of the in-flight comments published by his office. “Eliminating this threat is also to the benefit of Iraq.

I believe they see this reality and they will now put forth a will for this issue to be removed,” he said, adding he also discussed steps against the PKK during talks in Irbil.

Asked about Iraq’s needs for access to water, Erdogan said Turkiye was not a country with abundant water resources and also had to manage its own needs.

He added plans taking into account “changing climate conditions” were needed for the sustainable use of water. “Therefore, we need to take cautious steps. With evaluations to be held in that direction, it may be possible to find common ground,” he said. On Monday, the two countries agreed to a strategies.

“Israel’s Gaza Military Operation Sparks Concerns Over Postwar Governance and Security Scenarios”

There are several barriers to the creation of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel, however. One immediate stumbling block is that the dream of Palestinian statehood rests on the fortunes of the incumbent administrations in Israel and the US.The normally close allies appeared more divided than ever since Washington’s abstention in a UN Security Council vote on March 25 resulted in the passing of a resolution demanding an immediate ceasefire.

Relations soured further after seven aid workers from World Central Kitchen were killed on April 1 in a series of Israeli airstrikes while distributing food in the Gaza Strip, leading to additional censure by Washington.US President Bill Clinton (L) watches as Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat (C) confers with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak (R) on July 11, 2000. (AFP/File) Even before these events, the US government had voiced open support for a Palestinian state.

In his State of the Union address on March 8, US President Joe Biden made clear that “the only real solution is a two-state solution.”However, Biden faces a tight election slated for Nov. 5. If he loses to his Republican challenger, Donald Trump — who was an ardent supporter of Israel’s hard-right policies during his last presidency — a two-state outcome seems unlikely.Indeed, chatter among Trump loyalists suggests the former president may be leaning toward support for the removal of Palestinians from Gaza once and for all, with the starkest indication coming from his son-in-law and former Middle East adviser Jared Kushner.

Asked at the Harvard Kennedy School in March whether he expected Benjamin Netanyahu to block Gazans from returning in the event they were removed en masse, Kushner said: “Maybe,” before adding: “I am not sure there is much left of Gaza.”

On April 18, 12 countries at the UN Security Council voted to back a resolution recommending full Palestinian membership. Only the US voted against, using its veto to block the resolution.

Pakistan eyes new IMF loan by early July, finance minister says

“Pakistan Aims for IMF Agreement by June or Early July, Finance Minister Announces”In a significant development, Pakistan is actively pursuing a staff-level agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), with hopes set on finalizing the deal by June or early July, as confirmed by the country’s finance minister on Tuesday. This move underscores Pakistan’s commitment to stabilizing its economy and addressing financial challenges through cooperation with international institutions. As negotiations progress, stakeholders will closely monitor the outcome, recognizing the potential impact on Pakistan’s economic landscape and global financial dynamics.

“Pakistan’s $3 Billion IMF Arrangement Set to Expire in Late April”With the clock ticking, Pakistan faces the impending expiration of its $3 billion arrangement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which was secured last summer as a crucial measure to prevent a sovereign default. As the deadline approaches, the nation grapples with the imperative task of negotiating a new agreement with the IMF to ensure continued financial stability and avoid potential economic repercussions. The outcome of these negotiations holds significant implications for Pakistan’s fiscal trajectory and its ability to navigate ongoing challenges in the global economic landscape.

“Islamabad Pursues Long-Term, Substantial Loan for Sustainable Macroeconomic Stability”In a strategic move aimed at fostering enduring macroeconomic stability, Islamabad is actively seeking a substantial, long-term loan. This initiative not only serves to bolster the nation’s financial resilience but also provides a crucial framework for implementing essential structural reforms. By securing this larger loan, Pakistan aims to establish a robust foundation for sustained economic growth and resilience, positioning itself to effectively navigate the challenges of the global economic landscape. This proactive approach underscores the government’s commitment to fostering long-term prosperity and stability for the nation and its citizens.

“Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb Expresses Optimism for IMF Agreement by June or Early July”Addressing a conference in Islamabad, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb conveyed optimism regarding the ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He expressed hope that a staff-level agreement could be reached by June or early July, signaling the government’s commitment to securing vital financial assistance. Aurangzeb’s statement reflects the determination of Pakistani authorities to address economic challenges and foster stability through cooperation with international partners. As discussions progress, stakeholders will eagerly await further developments, recognizing the potential implications for Pakistan’s economic trajectory.

He returned from Washington last week after leading a team to attend the IMF and World Bank’s spring meetings. “We had very good discussions in Washington,” he said.He said he did not know at this stage the volume and tenure of the longer program.

“Discover the Mystical Meaning Behind April’s Pink Moon”

“Prepare for the Spectacular Arrival of the Pink Moon: What to Know About This Spring’s Second Full Moon”As anticipation builds for one of the year’s most captivating celestial displays, it’s important to clarify the misconceptions surrounding the Pink Moon. Contrary to its name, the moon won’t sport a rosy hue, but its brilliance promises to captivate sky gazers nonetheless. The April full moon is set to grace the heavens today, Tuesday, and will continue to enchant viewers until Thursday. Not only is this lunar event the fourth full moon of the year, but it also holds special significance for those observing the Jewish holiday Passover, earning it the alternate title of Passover Moon.

“The April 23 Full Moon in Scorpio: Embracing Intimacy, Self-Empowerment, and Renewal”As the first full moon of April graces the sky, it takes its place within the Scorpio constellation, a water sign renowned for its associations with intimacy, self-empowerment, vulnerability, rebirth, and sexuality. The celestial event on April 23 carries profound significance, signaling a time of renewal and rejuvenation. Under the influence of Scorpio’s transformative energy, individuals are encouraged to embrace their deepest emotions, tap into their inner strength, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. This full moon serves as a potent reminder of the power of vulnerability and the potential for growth that comes with embracing one’s true self.

“A Celestial Spectacle: Mars, Saturn, and Mercury Join the Lunar Show”This year’s celestial event promises to be more than just a captivating display of the Moon. Alongside the lunar marvel, sky gazers will also have the opportunity to behold the majestic presence of Mars, Saturn, and Mercury. As these celestial bodies align in the night sky, they offer a breathtaking panorama of the cosmos, inviting viewers to marvel at the wonders of our solar system. From the fiery glow of Mars to the majestic rings of Saturn and the fleeting dance of Mercury, this celestial convergence promises an unforgettable experience for all who turn their gaze heavenward.

According to NASA, it will reach peak illumination at 7:49 pm EDT on April 23 but will be visible all through Thursday morning. Other names of the event refer to it as the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon, Fish Moon, the Pesach or Passover Moon, the Hanuman Jayanti Festival Moon, and Bak Poya – depending on one’s culture

Additionally, the Christian ecclesiastical calendar also refers to the first full moon after the spring equinox as the Paschal Moon, which helps determine the date of Easter. This means Easter follows on the Sunday after the Paschal Moon/Easter Moon. While for 2024, Easter already occurred on March 24, sometimes the April full moon also secures that title.